iPad accessories - page 2

Add stable kickstand to M4 iPad Pro with this lightweight folio case [Review] ★★★★

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Pitaka MagEZ Folio 2 review★★★★
Pitaka MagEZ Folio 2 adds protection and a kickstand to your iPad.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Pitaka MagEZ Folio 2 case both protects your iPad when you’re carrying it around and offers an origami kickstand when it’s time to use the tablet. It can be configured to hold the tablet at a variety of angles, in both portrait and landscape modes. Plus there’s a strap to hold an Apple Pencil in place.

I tested the version with my new M4 iPad Pro, and I like the sleek, lightweight design. Read on for more of my thoughts on this case.

Budget flash drive sports USB-C and USB-A connectors [Review] ★★★★☆

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UGR Tech Dual USB-C + USB-A 3.2 High Speed Flash Drive review★★★★☆
UGR Tech Dual USB-C + USB-A 3.2 High Speed Flash Drive is better than you might think.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

UGR Tech Dual USB-C + USB-A 3.2 High Speed Flash Drive plugs into your new Mac or iPad but it can also be used with devices that still have an old full-size USB port.

It’s a low-cost flash drive so I was very suspicious. But the aluminum exterior is quite rugged, the design is clever and the accessory passed a fraud test.

This dual-port USB-C charger is small enough to take everywhere [Review] ★★★★

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Plugable 40W Dual USB-C Charger review★★★★
Plugable 40W Dual USB-C Charger: Powerful enough to be useful, small enough to go anywhere
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Happily, powerful USB chargers keep getting smaller. The new Plugable 40W Dual USB-C Charger is the most portable one I’ve ever used, but it still puts out enough juice to keep a MacBook, iPad and/or iPhone going.

I went hands-on to test the capabilities of this affordable accessory.

4 reasons Logitech’s M4 iPad Pro keyboard case is better than Apple’s [Review] ★★★★

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Logitech Combo Touch for M4 iPad Pro★★★★
Logitech Combo Touch is one of the best M4 iPad Pro keyboard cases available.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Logitech’s Combo Touch keyboard case for the new M4 iPad Pro offers nearly everything Apple’s beloved Magic Keyboard case does. And the Logitech version includes features Apple’s does not.

I put both peripherals through hands-on testing. Here’s where the Combo Touch comes out ahead … and where it doesn’t.

Apple Magic Keyboard expands M4 iPad Pro to its full potential [Review] ★★★★

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Apple Magic Keyboard for M4 iPad Pro★★★★
Every M4 iPad Pro buyer should at least consider getting the Apple Magic Keyboard.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

With its cool cantilever design, Apple Magic Keyboard was a standout iPad Pro accessory even before its recent upgrade. Now that Apple fixed some of the original’s problems by adding a glass trackpad, a row of function keys and an aluminum palm rest, it’s even better. Especially with an improved USB-C port.

But does the functionality (and sheer coolness) justify the epic price of the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro? Read on to find out.

Ikea Sjöss 45W charger: Why buy anything else? [Review] ★★★★

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Ikea Sjöss 45W charger review★★★★
The Ikea Sjöss 45W is the best dual USB-C charger you can buy for cheap.
Photo: Rajesh Pandey/Cult of Mac

Plenty of power bricks with dual USB-C ports give you options for charging your Apple devices. But Ikea — yes, the company known for its DIY furniture — has a new offering that trumps them all from a value viewpoint. As you’ll find out in our review of the Ikea Sjöss 45W charger, it packs two USB-C ports and supports all popular fast charging standards.

The effective power adapter stands out for its super-low price, which significantly undercuts the competition. Below is our quick review of the Ikea Sjöss 45W USB-C charger.

Confirmed: Redesign makes M4 iPad Pro incompatible with older cases, keyboards, styli

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M4 iPad Pro with older Apple Magic Keyboard
M4 iPad Pro absolutely does not work with previous Apple Magic Keyboard.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

A change in the location of magnets built into the M4 iPad Pro breaks compatibility with a wide array of accessories designed for earlier models. That includes many folio cases, clip-on keyboards, and styli. Many of Apple’s own previous offerings are on the incompatible list, too.

Apple had already warned of this, but Wednesday’s launch of the tablet allows real-world tests to confirm the full extent of the affect.

Cases, keyboards and screen protectors are ready for 2024 iPad Pro and iPad Air

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ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case 360
Apple isn't the only option for a cool iPad Pro or iPad Air keyboard case. Like this one from ESR.
Image: ESR

Apple unveiled the 2024 iPad Pro and iPad Air on Tuesday, and third-party accessory-makers were prepared. Logitech, Otterbox, Zagg, Pitaka and ESR have all already unveiled peripherals for the new tablets.

There are keyboard cases, cases, screen protectors ands more.

What new features to expect in Apple Pencil 3 [Updated]

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What new features to expect in Apple Pencil 3
It's not challenging to guess that Apple Pencil 3 is on the agenda for the May 7 Apple event.
Photo: Apple/Cult of Mac

Apple Pencil 3 is apparently right around the corner, and leaks indicate the next iPad stylus will offer several features not in the previous one. That includes a new “squeeze” gesture, haptic feedback and Find My support.

Plus, it might also work as a Vision Pro stylus.

Turn your iPad into an art studio with this top-rated digital pen

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Get more than half off this top-rated tablet pen today.  
Get an Apple Pencil alternative for less than $40.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Using a digital pen with your iPad (or other tablet) can open up a whole world of new everyday uses. And you don’t need to invest in an expensive Apple Pencil to try it out. This iPad stylus is a much more affordable Apple Pencil alternative, and it’s even cheaper during our limited-time sale.

Right now, you can grab the top-rated Digi Pen for iPad and other tablets for just $31.99 with code ENJOY20. Don’t miss this hot deal on a great accessory for stepping up how you use your tablet.

Improved iPad screen protector and Apple Pencil tip make drawing easier

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Astropad Rock Paper Pencil v2 textured iPad screen protector and Apple Pencil tip
Rock Paper Pencil v2 is for artists struggling with drawing on a slick iPad screen.
Photo: Astropad

The second-generation version of Astropad’s Rock Paper Pencil includes an improved version of the textured iPad screen protector. Theres also a more durable Apple Pencil tip.

The combo is designed for digital artists who want drawing on an iPad to feel more like using a pen on paper.

Mechanical Mac keyboard packs useful features into small package [Review] ★★★★

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Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard review★★★★
Satechi SM1 offers mac users a compact mechanical keyboard with multiple connectivity options.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

The Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard offers a 75% layout with low-profile brown switches so it’s easy to type on while not taking up much room on your desk. This mechanical keyboard for Mac can connect with up to four computers, including your iPad and iPhone, plus Windows machines. And it uses a variety of connectivity methods: Bluetooth, wired and more.

I’ve used it for several weeks now in my home office. I found a lot to like.

Turn iPad or iPhone into full-featured laptop with NexDock [Review] ★★★★

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NexDock review: Turn iPad or iPhone into full-featured laptop★★★★
No, NexDock isn't a laptop that runs iPadOS. It's better.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

NexDock lets you easily add a 13-inch external screen, keyboard and trackpad to your iPad or iPhone 15 and make them even more useful. Plus, there are bonus features: The all-in-one accessory recharges the Apple device, and includes a microSD card reader and an additional USB-C port.

I tested the Nex’s NexDock for this review, and found it a great fit for iPad — and a somewhat problematic one for iPhone 15, though a third-party app helps. Here’s why.

This slim, wireless mechanical keyboard connects to four devices

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Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard
Satechi's first mechanical keyboard won't take up much room on your desk.
Photo: Satechi

The Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard offers a 75% layout with low-profile brown switches. It can connect with up to four computers, whether Mac, iPad, iPhone, Windows, etc.

The wired/wireless keyboard debuted at CES 2024, and is available now.

This 17-inch, 4K touchscreen is the best portable monitor we’ve ever used [Review] ★★★★

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espresso 17 Pro -- simulated screen image★★★★
espresso 17 Pro offers just about everything you could want in a mobile screen.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

The espresso 17 Pro checks every box in a premium portable display. It sports a 4K resolution, touchscreen with stylus support, and a sleek design ready for on-the-go use.

The 17-inch screen is brilliant as a productivity enhancement when away from the office, but it’s also intended for digital artists to use everyday. Or just anyone who’d like a touchscreen Mac.

I tested the espresso 17 Pro in my home office and while traveling. Here’s why I love it.

Score an Apple Magic Keyboard Folio for just $85

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Gift this Apple Magic Keyboard Folio to an iPad 10th Gen user for the holidays, now only $85.
This might be the ultimate keyboard case for the 10th-gen iPad. And you can't beat the price!
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

The Apple Magic Keyboard Folio is a great combo keyboard case for the iPad, but its high retail price puts it out of reach for some consumers. Not so with this hot deal on an open-box model that slashes the price by 67%.

For a limited time, you can grab a Magic Keyboard Folio for just $84.97 (regularly $249) with free shipping. However, you need to order today if you want to ensure it arrives on time for Christmas!

Pre-loved iPad comes bundled with every accessory you need for less than $220

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Score early Black Friday savings on this near-mint iPad with renewed new Beats headphones, now just $220.
A refurbished iPad and an accessory bundle featuring Beats Flex headphones makes a perfect gift.
Photo: Cult of Mac Deals

Looking for a Black Friday sale on an iPad? For a limited time, you can score an incredible deal on a near-mint refurbished iPad bundled with all the accessories you could need — including a set of Beats wireless headphones.

Through November 26, this combo goes for only $219.97, with no coupon necessary.

How to get the latest USB-C Apple Pencil firmware update

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Apple Pencil (USB-C) firmware update
Yes, you might need to think about updating the software on your Apple Pencil.
Image: Apple/Cult of Mac

Just about everything electronic requires firmware — Apple’s iPad stylus is no exception. With software comes updates, and there’s new one for the recently released version of the Apple Pencil with a USB-C port.

Here’s how to check what firmware version your Apple Pencil is currently running, and a suggestion on how to get the new update.

Apple Pencil 2 drops to its best price in this pre-Black Friday deal

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It's not the first time Apple Pencil 2 has been this cheap, but you may never see a lower price.
This is the Apple Pencil 2 deal ahead of Black Friday that you should not miss.
Photo: Ian Fuchs/Cult of Mac

You can get the incredibly useful Apple Pencil 2 for its lowest price ahead of Black Friday. Amazon is taking $40 off the iPad accessory, dropping its price to $89.

The Apple Pencil 2 works with iPad Air, iPad mini 6, and iPad Pro to make note-taking and drawing a breeze.

New USB-C Apple Pencil is lower in price but not usability [Review] ★★★★

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Apple Pencil (USB-C)★★★★
The first budget Apple Pencil is the iPad stylus students and businesspeople have been looking for.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

The just-launched Apple Pencil includes USB-C charging, making it easy to use with the budget iPad. While top quality, the new model doesn’t have all the features of Apple Pencil 2 but costs $50 less.

I tested the stylus with my iPad and found reasons to like it even more than the premium version.

This brilliant iPad stylus also works with iPhone [Review] ★★★★

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Zagg Pro Stylus 2 review★★★★
Zagg's new iPad stylus is just right for students and businesspeople.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

The Zagg Pro Stylus 2 is ready to help you take handwritten notes on an iPad and sketch out your ideas, too. Or you can use it on your iPhone — don’t try that with Apple Pencil.

It wirelessly charges on the edge of an Apple tablet, and that’s just one of the tricks it can do.

I tested the Pro Stylus 2 with my iPad Pro and iPhone 15 and came away pleased.

Get ready to grab the first budget Apple Pencil

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Apple Pencil (USB-C) with iPad
Apple Pencil (USB-C) with iPad is the lowest-cost stylus made by Apple.
Photo: Apple

Apple just took the wraps off a lower-price version of its iPad stylus. The new Apple Pencil uses a USB-C port for charging so it’s a better fit for use with the budget iPad.

“Apple Pencil has revolutionized note taking, sketching, and illustrating, unleashing endless possibilities for productivity and creativity,” said Bob Borchers, Apple VP of Worldwide Product Marketing. “Combined with the versatility of iPad, the new Apple Pencil unlocks another great option to experience the magic of digital handwriting, annotation, marking up documents, and more.”

The new version is $50 less than Apple Pencil 2, the premium model. But it lacks some of the features of the top-of-the-line version.

Draw more easily on iPad with screen protector and Apple Pencil tip combo

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Astropad Rock Paper Pencil includes both iPad screen protector and Apple Pencil tip.
Rock Paper Pencil might make you a better digital artist.
Photo: Astropad

Astropad’s Rock Paper Pencil is designed for digital artists who want drawing on an iPad to feel more like using a pen on paper. It achieves this effect with an unusual combination: a screen protector and an Apple Pencil tip.

Notetakers can also appreciate not having to use the slippery glass screen of an iPad.

Zagg’s colorful new stylus works with both iPhone and iPad

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Zagg Pro Stylus 2
The Zagg Pro Stylus 2 does most of what Apple Pencil does, but costs less.
Photo: Zagg

There are plenty of iPad styli, and also lots of iPhone ones. The just-launched Zagg Pro Stylus 2 is both. The colorful accessory also stands out from the crowd (and the original version) with wireless charging.

It works with a wide variety of iPad models, and launched Tuesday at a price well below Apple Pencil.