Image via Complex Original
Intro
The iPad user base is split in two. There are those who see the device as a complimentary gadget; one they use in conjunction with their laptop or desktop computers. Others see the tablet as a standalone device; one that can all but replace their laptops and desktops. We're not here to say who's right or wrong. However, we do recognize that a big problem with using the iPad as a replacement for, say, your laptop is its lack of a tactile keyboard. Typing anything longer than a tweet using the iPad's onscreen keyboard is a hell of a chore. Thankfully, a host of companies have sought to change that. Since the iPad's release, we've seen a lot of physical keyboards that seek replicate the experience of typing at a real computer. Some use Bluetooth to connect to the tablet, while others simply lay over the existing soft-keyboard. If you're looking to be more productive with your iPad, take a look at the 10 Best iPad 2 Keyboards.
Apple Wireless Keyboard
Apple Wireless Keyboard
Click Here to Buy It Now from Apple, $69
If you use a MacBook or work on a new-ish iMac you should already be familiar with the feel of the Apple Wireless Keyboard. Thin, sturdy, and industrially beautiful, Apple's bluetooth keyboard can be the perfect accessory for your iPad. All you need to do is dock your iPad with the Apple iPad stand (or Incase's awesome Origami Workstation) and go to work. The only downside with this keyboard is that it's a bit heavy, making it one of the least portable keyboards on this list.
Brookstone
Brookstone Bluetooth Keyboard for iPad 2
Click Here to Buy It Now at Brookstone, $100
Brookton's iPad 2 keyboard comes bundled with a stylish, sturdy leather case that offers openings for all the tablet's ports and cameras. The case sports a magnetic latch to ensure it stays closed when in transit. The Bluetooth keyboard's keys have a great feel for easy, comfortable typing. We wish you were able to type with the iPad in portrait mode, but that little setback doesn't ruin an otherwise great case and keyboard.
TouchFire
TouchFire
Click Here to Buy It Now at Brookstone, $45
We've written many nice things about the TouchFire—a screen-top keyboard for the iPad that saw its first production run completely sell out—because it's one of the most inventive accessories available for Apple's tablet. A simple, lightweight keyboard that rests on the tablet's display and locks into place using the iPad 2's magnets, the TouchFire is extremely portable and allows you to continue using the Apple Smart Cover. Sure, $45 may seem a bit much for a plastic membrane keyboard, but we guarantee you'll never find a keyboard like the TouchFire.
Logitech Tablet Keyboard
Logitech Tablet Keyboard for iPad
Click Here to Buy It Now at Logitech, $70
Logitech is well-known for the quality of its computer keyboards and mice. Its iPad offerings carries on that tradition. The Tablet Keyboard for iPad is a Bluetooth number that retains the feel of a real laptop keyboard while keeping its profile thin and small, similar to Apple's Wireless Keyboard. Logitech also throws in a carrying case that doubles as stand to prop your iPad up in any way you please (landscape or portrait). The keyboard also has custom media controls that make playing music or movies much easier.
Zagg Folio
ZAGGFolio
Click Here to Buy It Now at Zagg, $100
Available in a number of color and material combinations, Zagg's keyboard case has it all: a removeable and rechargeable Bluetooth keyboard with iPad 2 specific keys such as copy/paste, media controls, and volume; a durable finish, and a built-in stand.
Kensington
Kensington KeyFolio Pro 2 Removable Keyboard, Case & Stand
Click Here to Buy It Now at Kensington, $100
Kensington took everything great about its other keyboard cases and turned it up a notch. This go-around we get an upgraded removable keyboard so you can type from a comfortable distance. The case is also very flexible, allowing you to position the iPad anywhere from 20 to 70 degrees. When you're not using the keyboard, you can even lie the iPad flat with all the ports and cameras accessible and ready for use.
Belkin
Belkin Keyboard Folio for iPad 2
Click Here to Buy It Now at Belkin, $100
The problem with most folio cases that have keyboards is the bulk. Belkin manages to eliminate a bunch of the bulk with its Folio case for the iPad 2. You get the usual: a Bluetooth keyboard with what Belkin calls "TruType" keys that give amazing tactile feedback. The keystrokes here may be our favorite of the pack. Combine that with a durable, simply designed case, and you have an awesome keyboard and case combination.
Logitech Keyboard Case
Logitech Keyboard Case for iPad 2
Click Here to Buy It Now at Logitech, $80
Logitech partnered with ZAGG to this extremely sturdy and cool-looking keyboard case. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, the Keyboard Case is versatile. You can type with the iPad in either portrait or landscape mode , and like Logitech's other iPad keyboards, you get a good number of shortcut keys for easier computing. Also cool is the amount of protection offered by this case: the corners are lined with high-density padding to help ease the impact of a fall.
Zagg Solo
ZAGGkeys SOLO
Click Here to Buy It Now at ZAGG, $70
Logitech hollered at ZAGG to help with one of its keyboard cases because ZAGG knows a thing or three about building excellent keyboards and cases for the iPad. Case in point: the ZAGGKeys SOLO. A lightweight Bluetooth keyboard with a built-in stand, customized shortcut keys, and a rechargeable battery, the ZAGGKeys SOLO is a great alternative to the Apple Wireless Keyboard. Oh, it also works with Android tablets, so if you're a Samsung and Motorola fan, this is the keyboard for you.
Targus
Targus Bluetooth Keyboard for iPad
Click Here to Buy It Now at Targus, $64
Cheaper than all other Bluetooth Keyboards on this list, Targus's offering is a straight-forward keyboard with the usual host of customized iPad-appropriate keys (including a cool "lock" key). Targus claims the battery can last up to seven months which is good if you're on your iPad day-in and day-out.
