If you’re looking for an alternative to Apple’s Smart Folio for your iPad Pro, and don’t mind a little extra heft, the TouchType Case is a fine alternative. It’s an upcoming protective case and keyboard all in one with some special flourishes.
There’s a Kickstarter campaign underway for the case. However, I’ve been testing out a prototype for a couple of months now. It works with the 12.9-inch iPad Pro. A 10.5 version will be made if the campaign’s $100,000 stretch goal is reached.
The TouchType is, based on my experience, the most versatile iPad Pro case around. For example, it holds the Apple Magic Keyboard when you want to use the table as a laptop alternative. Magnetic “tracks” embedded in the case/keyboard cover interact with the magnets under the keyboard. This allows for a stable set-up with a variety of angles.
The keyboard can be flipped behind the iPad when it’s not being used. The previously mentioned magnetic tracks help keep it in place so you can use the TouchType as a kick stop for the Apple tablet. If you never have a need for a keyboard, unlike Apple’s Smart Keyboard, the TouchType keyboard holder is detachable, and the cover automatically adjusts to form-fit either scenario (keyboard or non-keyboard).
Finally, the polycarbonate shell of the TouchType is coated with a coating to reduce smudging.
There’s a lot to love about the case/keyboard, but there are two things you need to keep in mind. The version for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, which is the one I tested, weighs 1.2 pounds for the iPad folio only (in other words with no keyboard) compared to the 0.9 pound weight of the Apple Smart Folio. Also, Apple’s solution, a keyboard used with the TouchType won’t automatically charge as it uses Bluetooth instead of being physical attached to the iPad Pro itself.
Beyond those two issues, the TouchType is a great iPad Pro accessory for anyone who uses the tablet with a keyboard and needs flexility and versatility in their day to day use of the device.
When the TouchType reaches its Kickstarter funding, the finished version is due for release in August. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price should be around $100.
