Travel Tech 101 – Accessories to Turn an iPad into a Laptop

Published Date:

Last Updated:

Share post:

Whether you are a travel blogger or simply someone that enjoys traveling, the likelihood is that you will want to ‘stay connected’ while on your travels. The question is – what device(s) do you take?

Today I want to make a case to support the argument that an iPad can do everything your laptop can, especially with a few accessories that make life so much better. If you have followed our Travel Tech 101 series, you will recall we are firm believers of Inateck’s products so it is no surprise that we were immediately ready to use their brand new iPad Bluetooth keyboard and iPad Air case.

Technology is always evolving and trying to keep up with the latest advancements is a near impossible task. As travelers, we are always looking at becoming more efficient and finding the most portable devices to take with us on our travels. At the same time, it is of paramount importance that the devices we take with us allow us to keep our website updated and also social media platforms, along with other less important capabilities such as photo editing software.

Can an iPad replace my laptop?

I have always been a huge proponent of taking my laptop with me. I used to carry around an Acer Aspire One netbook, which was small, portable and allowed me to perform the majority of day-to-day tasks required. After purchasing a MacBook Air in 2013 and suffering the ill fate of the screen going out, I continued in the world of Apple by upgrading to a MacBook Pro with Retina 13” which I really love. However, portability wise it is still lacking a little so I am always on the lookout for something to take on our travels.

Photo & Video Sharing by SmugMug

We have asked ourselves the question about whether an iPad can replace our laptop on several occasions but each time we have found something lacking that makes it difficult to justify making the switch. This argument is one that will likely always have pros and cons and the best way to answer this question is to simply say this is down to personal preference and what your specific needs are within a device.

Turn an iPad into a Laptop

I have used a variety of different iPad models including the Mini, the iPad 2 and now the Air which I am most impressed with due to the sleek look and lightweight feel (I am sure the Air 2 is even better but for now I am satisfied with the first edition!)

It’s a million dollar question in the technology world about what accessories should be created to turn an iPad into a laptop, but we think Inateck have done a great job with their iPad Air cover and a wireless Bluetooth keyboard to enhance your experience especially when on the road or taking a long flight somewhere.

iPad Air Cover

Protection is key right? At least that’s what we always hear, especially when it comes to fragile electronic devices! Imagine spending $400-$600 on a product that the first moment you drop it, will likely break into a thousand pieces! Well, that’s the harsh reality with an iPad so it is crucial that you look after it both when using and also when stored in your backpack.

The new iPad Air protection case from Inateckprovides this added piece of mind when you have it stored away. I LOVE this case; not only because of the protection but also because of how cool it looks. I despise the look and feel of OtterBox cases (sorry fans of this brand!) and I want something that will keep my device safe yet still look stylish. I also love the look of this case because it goes synonymously with the MacBook Air/Pro sleeve that I have from Inateck.

But this iPad case is not just about protection because there are a couple of hidden features that make this a perfect companion with your iPad Air and supports the statement that you could replace your laptop with an iPad!

Here are some of the key features of the iPad Air case by Inateck:

  • High quality soft felt inside and outside that ensures the iPad remains scratch free;
  • Magnetic buckle also adds an extra layer of security so that the iPad doesn’t fall out;
  • Case has dual functionality and a built-in support function to work as a stand with the magnetic buckle holding up the front of the iPad.

If you need any more convincing that this product is worth trying, a price tag of only $10.99 will surely sway you to opting for this case! If there was ever a bargain in the world of technology, I am convinced that this is it. Try it out, you won’t be disappointed.

Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard

So you have the case to protect your iPad and also serve your needs as a functional stand, but there is still the problem of using an iPad as a typing device. Could you imagine typing a long blog post, long e-mail or a paper as a student using the touchscreen function? Maybe you could, but I know I couldn’t so I want something that I can use in tandem with my iPad.

Welcome to the new wireless Bluetooth keyboard by Inateck. Ok so there is an abundance of wireless keyboards in the market that serves the same purpose as Inateck’s but at the same price point from my experience, the other competitors are less reliable. Perhaps that was just my unfortunate experience but this keyboard is far superior to anything I have used previously.

One of the key advantages of Inateck’s Bluetooth keyboard is the size. I have previously used iPad cases with built-in keyboards but honestly, the keys are either too small or not ergonomically friendly. Inateck provides a full-sized keyboard and an aesthetically pleasing appearance to make this a great addition to your backpack!

Here are some of the additional key features of the wireless Bluetooth keyboard by Inateck:

  • Bluetooth 3.0 technology providing high-speed connectivity between keyboard and iPad;
  • Operating hours over 60 days;
  • Low noise keyboard;
  • Compatibility across Mac OS/iOS, Android and Windows platforms.

Inateck’s low pricing philosophy continues with this wireless Bluetooth keyboard and for only $18.99 this can be yours!

Summary

Inateck have produced two high quality products here that will help turn your iPad into a laptop…Ok so maybe you still need more convincing and honestly so do I because I am such a fond lover of my MacBook Pro!

I am a firm believer that there is huge potential out there for the tablet in general to replace the laptop but I am still not completely sold that we are there just yet. For just over $30, you can have two great accessories that will transform your iPad into a more user-friendly device especially when traveling and you want something more than just a device that you can watch a movie or play Angry Birds! Regardless of your opinion on the iPad vs. laptop debate, Inateck has designed accessories here that is well worth purchasing.

What is your opinion on this debate of iPad vs. laptop? Do you think we technologically advanced enough yet with any of the products on the market to replace the laptop with a tablet device?

*Disclosure of Material Connection: A Brit & A Southerner was not financially compensated for this post. We received free samples from Inateck for consideration of review purposes only. This is solely our personal opinion/experience*

Share on Social...

Chris Boothmanhttps://abritandasoutherner.com
Chris Boothman is the co-founder of A Brit and A Southerner. Born near Manchester, England, Chris moved to USA in 2006 where he soon after met his wife and travel partner in crime, Heather. They have since embarked on an amazing journey of travel as they challenge others to follow in their paths of working full-time but also being able to travel frequently! If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact Chris at [email protected]

11 COMMENTS

  1. I just got a Microsoft Surface and I have to say it’s the most travel friendly laptop/tablet I’ve had. I had an iPad and a laptop and now I love that I can just carry one. I also like I can use MS Office for my work trips. As for the post, that’s a really cute cover!

  2. I have an 11inch Mac Book Air and I don’t think I can be convinced that an Ipad is better. The 11inch air is SOOOOOO tiny and it can run all my programs, so I think i’ll stick with it 🙂 But if you want cheaper than you have some great ideas for someone who cant afford the pricetag on a Mac computer (thank you 2014 tax refund 😉 )

    • I was a huge fan of my 11″ Air until the screen decided to quit on me after only a year!! I definitely agree though that we are not quite there yet with tablets. I heard rumors that Apple are working on a laptop/tablet combo that runs both iOS and Yosemite depending on whether you are using the device as either tablet or laptop!

  3. This is something I’ve been pondering for a little while now as I’m about due to do an upgrade from my Macbook Pro (purchased back in 2011). I’ve been considering the iPad, but even more so the Macbook Air for it’s light weight. The only downfall is is the hard drive storage space. But with a 1 terabyte external hard drive, I think I may be going with the Macbook Air. 🙂

  4. For blogging I think I *need* my laptop, my tablet isn’t an iPad tho’ so it doesn’t do everything I’d want it to. If I’m going to take an extra keyboard I may as well pack my laptop, really. Also- I was always a fan on the Acer Aspire One the only thing that put me off was that it was an Atom. I never owned one in the end.

  5. As a budding photographer I feel I need not only my laptop, but a desktop! I need those big screens with a mouse to feel most at ease while uploading and editing photos. Of course, when travel is thrown into the equation, I wouldn’t dare plan on bringing my laptop with me, but my iPad would suffice. I think if maybe I did more long term travel, a lap top would serve as a more appropriate medium, but for just a couple weeks of vacation, the iPad will be fine!

  6. I have tried, unsuccessfully on several occasions to work on an ipad whilst travelling and each time I have found myself wanting my laptop. It is handy for many things – searching the internet, social media etc but when it comes to writing, working on photo images and then editing a blog I feel that an ipad doesn’t quite live up to my expectations.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

POPULAR POSTS

Whether you are a travel blogger or simply someone that enjoys traveling, the likelihood is that you will want to ‘stay connected’ while on your travels. The question is – what device(s) do you take? Today I want to make a case to support the...Travel Tech 101 – Accessories to Turn an iPad into a Laptop