Remember mini notebooks? They never really did take off in the mainstream because of limitations in keyboard size (typing on one was always a task in concentration for us meaty-fingered types) and utility. It seems miniature laptops were never meant to win the hearts of the greater public, but perhaps it was a task better suited for tablets partnered up with an add-on cover and Bluetooth-enabled keyboard accessory like these...
1. The Cooper Kai Skel Apple iPad 2 Keyboard Clamshell Notebook Case: 82 keys with a whopping 55 hour battery and auto Sleep/Wake feature. Users can simultaneous charge both the iPad and this add-on keyboard. And in the looks department, you might be apt to fool a few people into believing you're working on a genuine miniature MacBook, despite the plastic finish. $54.95
2. CruxSKUNK CruxCase: only 6mm thin and constructed with airplane grade anodized aluminum for a MacBook Air-like, this case has 4 modes: laptop, movie, tablet, and carry (closed up). $179.00
3. ClamCase iPad Keyboard Cases & Stands: another higher end finish, construction laptop conversion case, the aluminum with polycarbonite exterior and 360 degree hinge allows the design to convert into a myriad of positions. But the best feature is the sufficiently spaced keyboard keys, so you won't have to spend time re-learning how to type. $169.00
4. Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover: a more streamlined version compared to the other three above, the Logitech Ultrathin is like a muscled up version of the Apple cover, with a similar magnetic clip closure. A ridiculously long 6-month battery life on a full charge (in standby) means the membrane scissor type keys are ready for some longer format typing at the open of the case. $99.99
5. Kensington KeyFolio Expert Multi Angle Folio & Keyboard: angle your laptop...ahem...iPad in a variety of degrees, with a tactile keyboard with keys designed for faster touch typists. All the ports are open for quick connections even with this folio-style case open, with a super soft microfiber interior. $99.99
(Images: as linked above; Gregory Han)






White Enamel Flatwa...
It seems you forgot about The Brydge.
...and you forgot the beautiful Zagg cases. I have an orange one with a silver keypad, it's gorgeous, makes my iPad4 look like a mini laptop.
no, they're not dear. it just those other brands don't the buy ads space here.
I love my netbook and have hesitated to buy a tablet because I need a real keyboard and don't like to adapt. I use a netbook EVERYDAY and this would let a tablet take over that role but also be the ereader, game pad, etc... that I'd love to have.
My husband and I really like our Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Covers. I'm using it right now. Keeps the tablet at the right angle. I don't know if I'd like it for real typing, but it works fine for "hunt and peck".
I probably shouldn't bother since this site likes to delete any post that is the least bit critical of any article but here goes. The iPad is a tablet and it makes no sense trying to turn it into a laptop as it then defeats the purpose of a tablet being light and thin.
My advice is for people to learn to use the onscreen keyboard. It took a little while and practice but I can type just as fast with the onscreen keyboard as I can with my Apple wireless keyboard for my iMac. The keys are even the same size.
Allow me to offer a hefty endorsement of the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover. I'm a college student and I use it in class on my tiny little attached desk. It's made my life much easier. The only issue is remembering to turn on/off the Bluetooth connection.
I have the clamcase for iPad 1 and while it is sleek and protective, the keyboard is not ideal. They keys are really stiff and hard to push down. I type fast, and on my clamcase I usually have to go back and edit all the missed spaces and letters.
I got the Logitech for my birthday yesterday, to use with my iPad mini.
Haven't actually used it yet, but I like the feel and it's only a bit heavier than the iPad alone, and protects it as well.
@jdoey, if your life is such that typing on a tablet works well for you, great! For me, I need the tactile key textures to stay on track, if I'm going to do much typing. Maybe in fact, I won't -- this was a gift, after all, not something I got out of dire need, and I do have desktop computers at work and home. Just saying that different folks have different needs...