Turn your iPad into a laptop…almost

There are tablets that double as actual laptops, but if you’re an iPad user there are ways to get by, too. A ton of impressive keyboard accessories offer a way to write on the go that, although lacking a trackpad, can get the job done surprisingly well.

My favorite was always the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover, a sleek, flat keyboard that latches onto the iPad’s magnetic side and works wonderfully at small tables and counters. (That case has a design update I’m currently using and writing a review for; it now has an adjustable iPad angle but feels similar) Now, Belkin may have made me switch preferences with its Qode Thin Type Keyboard for iPad Air, which costs the same ($100) but feels even nicer…with one small exception. I wrote this whole review on it, and I have warm feelings about the Thin Type. I want to take it with me everywhere.

Belkin has made a bunch of iPad keyboard cases, and they’re quite good, but the Thin Type isn’t really a case: it’s a flat keyboard that can latch and rest flat on top of the iPad Air’s screen for travel, like a cover.

The Thin Type has a sturdy aluminum construction and comes in two colors to match the iPad’s color schemes. It’s less than 4mm thick, according to Belkin. Just know that it’s essentially as thin and light as the Logitech Ultrathin. But, the back of the Belkin Qode Thin Type is a little thicker, housing a battery along with a bit of a keyboard riser. The Thin Type charges via Micro-USB (a cable is included). Belkin claims six months of use on a single charge. I’ve only used it for a few weeks, but so far so good: I haven’t even charged it out of the box.