May 14th in iPad News by

To keyboard or not to keyboard, that is the question

Typing on the iPad.  Previously we have chronicled how to practice typing on the iPad’s virtual keyboard with an app, TapTyping, and explored alternative methods, Swype and ThickButtons, that may increase one’s typing speed on the iPad if either were an option on the device.

If you, like many, long for the touch of a physical keyboard, Apple has two primary options for you to choose from, both requiring you to open your wallet and provide Apple with $69.00 + tax.  That said, even if you do not mind the virtual keyboard and have acquired some level of skill in using it, if you plan on using the iPad to complete any level of serious work, purchasing one of the two physical keyboard options is something you should strongly consider.

The first option is the iPad Keyboard Dock.  Upon attaching your iPad to the dock, typing using any app, in email, or while browsing the internet is extremely simple and feels just like typing on any other Apple branded keyboard.

With the iPad Keyboard Dock, no setup is required.  Further, by plugging the iPad’s power cord into the back of the dock, you can charge your iPad while you type.

The second option is the Apple Wireless Keyboard.  The cable-free keyboard uses Bluetooth technology to connect iPad.  Apple claims that with the wireless keyboard, “you’re free to move the keyboard just about anywhere within range and wirelessly type away. And its slim, compact design takes up much less space on your desk.”

The only problem?  The lack of a dock and or other form of stand to prop your iPad up with makes this option less than desirable.   Without purchasing some form of an iPad stand, or Apple’s branded case that folds to allow one to view the iPad in standup landscape mode, what the Apple Wireless Keyboard offers you is the chance to sit and stare straight down at your flat iPad while you type away.

Both options are an added expense to an already expensive purchase.  My preference is the Apple Wireless Keyboard.  Why?  Thanks to a company called GroovyStand, I purchased a $8  iPad stand that allows for portrait or landscape mode viewing, is portable, light weight and with the Apple Wireless Keyboard, makes my whole setup extremely portable regardless of where I choose to work on my iPad.

If you choose to purchase an external keyboard for your iPad, which option would you go with and why?

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Creator of Digital Deconstruction, write for The Next Web, iPadFan, and more. Animal, music, literature, history lover, law school graduate. http://about.me/jffcrmr

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  • Anonymous

    It is interesting ,to iPad or not to iPad ,that is a question!

  • http://www.fatcatsfuntimes.com Fatcatsfuntimes

    I’m curious to know if there has since been a development for a rollable keyboard for the IPad. Does anyone know?

  • Nicolas

    Today i got the keyboard with the dock. It is pretty cool since i need it for some serious typing, since i dont own a laptop computer. It also has special keys to use exclusively with the ipad, such as home screen button, etc.
    Its not that good to transport it though, the dock part makes it kind of unconfortable to handle in a bagpack.
    Cheers.

  • Nicolas

    I like the idea if a wireless keyboard, just bought the ipad 799$ model, so i have to wait for money cause im a student :) – later i'm sure i'll buy it!

  • http://twitter.com/bellealba bellealba

    Apple wireless keyboard with mighty mouse

  • spain007

    someone should develop a blue tooth rollable keyboard for the iPad/other devices.

  • http://wix.com/svenneby/gallery Anders Svenneby

    I'd go for the keyboard dock. I'll probably leave it in the dock when at home, and try to avoid writing anything like “War and peace” or “The Lord of the Rings” when on the move.
    A slight minus is that it only works in portrait mode, but I can't see any situations where I would have to write in landscape.
    As an added bonus, the unit will always be fully charged when I leave home.

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