If you are looking for a way to transform your 10.9” iPad Air into a laptop, consider the Logitech Combo Touch. This is a detachable case complete with keyboard and trackpad.
This Combo Touch has just two parts (1) Case and (2) Keyboard with trackpad. Installation could not be easier. Just insert your iPad into the case and then attach the keyboard into case via the magnetic Smart Connector and you’re done. This device bypasses Bluetooth and is powered through Apple’s proprietary Smart Connector™.
The keyboard features backlit keys so working in a low-light environment should not be a problem. The illumination can be controlled with 2 keys on the top row of the keyboard. The top row also features all the media keys you may ever need including volume, screen brightness, onscreen keyboard, etc.
The trackpad on the Combo Touch is slightly larger than those found on similar devices or PC laptops. It has a solid feel.
There is also a space on the top of the screen for your Apple Pencil, magnetically held in place. My only criticism is that this device should have a closed elastic loop found on earlier devices instead to insure a more solid grip on the Pencil.
One of the best features of this device is its weight. It weighs just over 22 ounces with slightly less weight than Logitech’s Folio version. I compared it to my generic plastic case and the Combo Touch weighs only 4 ounces more. Total weight of the Combo Touch and the iPad Air is only 2 lbs. and 2 oz. To add a keyboard and trackpad with such a low weight differential is just amazing if weight is a paramount consideration for purchasing this item.
The magnetic Smart Connector makes it very simple to remove the keyboard if you want to use the iPad for gaming. Just separate the keyboard with a slight tug and you’ve got a standalone iPad!
Some may be put off with the $200 price for this Combo Touch. But Apple wants $100 more for their Magic Keyboard for the iPad Air, a 50% premium. That’s a lot of price difference to consider!
This Logitech Combo Touch is not for everyone. But if you’re wanting to add more functionality to your iPad Air, this is the device to buy!