Text and photos by Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla
Apple's iPad mini is already an accomplished and multifunctional tablet. The addition of Logitech's slick new Ultrathin Keyboard Cover extends its potential and functionality to new heights. Hit jump for the full review.
The iPad mini is said to be a concentration of the best aspects of the iPad 2 and is as powerful and functional as the larger iPad but in a much smaller, lighter and eminently more portable size.
The same can be said for Logitech's Ultrathin Keyboard Cover for the iPad mini, which is just as well made and functional as its bigger brother.
The sleek matte black finish of the iPad mini is mirrored in the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover for the iPad mini which easily snaps on the magnetic latch of the iPad mini.
When one needs a keyboard more than a cover, the Logitech ultrathin keyboard easily interfaces with the iPad mini it is paired with and placing the iPad mini on the magnetic channel to prop it up, suddenly converts the awesome tablet into a formidable mini notebook.
The Logitech Ultrathin keyboard for the iPad mini is made of aluminum and is substantially heavier than the average iPad mini cover. This means that while it connects and sticks to the iPad's side magnets well, it cannot carry the weight of the iPad and vice versa.
Logitech has really created the soulmate to the iPad mini and while there are obvious limitations in terms of key placement and size, iPad mini users can now type a lot faster and more accurately than if they were using the on-screen software keyboard.
The Logitech Ultrathin keyboard also integrates a number of iOS controls in its layout. Common things like volume and brightness but also a smattering of useful shortcuts.
Many writers find using a notebook or desktop distracting for writing because there are so many time-consuming temptations to browse, surf, answer email as it comes in, that get in the way of their writing process. Tablets, which are app driven, are likely less prone to distracting their users so they could be a better tool for getting words down on file when paired with a good keyboard.
At 208g, the Ultrathin Keyboard mini weighs almost a third less than iPad mini. It is durable and practical with a long life battery (up to 3 months with average use of 2 hours per day on a single charge). It is an ideal partner to any traveling iPad mini user who expects to create content, write Pages documents, triage email as well as enjoy almost keyboard-like typing experience.
Anyone who is considering an iPad mini should definitely check out the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard. At $79.99, it is the most useful accessory for what is already a stunning mini tablet.
Rating 5 out of 5