A pricey case with cheap keys

Logitech attempts to unleash the productivity potential of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5 with a tailor-made Bluetooth keyboard case. As a case, it excels with a slim construction, sturdy stand, secure fit, and water-resistant exterior, but at its starting price — $100 in the US and £90 in the UK, the cheap plastic build of the keyboard devalorizes its clever design.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5 is one of the best slates available, and a protective case for it is a worthy investment. If you prefer a combination keyboard cover for yours, the Logitech model will only satisfy those who need a keyboard for very casual use; however, its overreaching starting price demands a closer look at what else is out there.

Logitech keyboard case for Samsung Tab S 10.5 is comfy and light (Pictures)
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Design

At first glance, the Logitech keyboard case looks like a fancy notebook. The material on the exterior is all-black, with a textured weave material that covers two thirds of the case. A faux-leather finish is found on half of the back cover, with a hole that exposes the 5-megapixel rear camera and LED flash.

When you open the case, the left half houses the keyboard, while the other half provides plastic clips that fasten the tablet — they also have magnets in them to help keep the case closed. The Galaxy Tab S 10.5 easily snaps into the clips with a sturdy and secure fit.

The magnetic plastic edge that clips onto the bottom of the tablet attaches to the top of the keyboard. Its subtle angular design helps it quickly and correctly snap into place and leaves little room for user error.

The keyboard is an appropriate size for a 10.5-inch tablet and doesn’t add a lot of weight. The keys themselves are smooth and comfortable to type on, but they’re surrounded by a shiny plastic that heavily attracts smudges. It’s easy to clean with a good microfiber cloth, but considering it’s made for your hands to roam on, it’s not my favorite choice of material.

There’s no touchpad, which allows for a more spacious keyboard layout. The keys are still a bit close in comparison with a regular keyboard, but I quickly got the hang of the different spacing. Those with larger hands might find the fit a bit too cramped.

On the top right corner of the keyboard there’s a Bluetooth pairing button, on/off switch, and micro-USB port. The plastic clips and edges that hold the tablet in place don’t interfere with the locations of the power or volume buttons, as well as the speakers.

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