When it comes to keyboards for iPads, two popular options stand out from the rest: the Brydge Pro+ and the ZAGG Rugged Book. Both of these keyboards are designed to provide a seamless typing experience on your iPad, but they differ in several key areas. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, design, and overall performance of each keyboard to help you decide which one is best for your needs.
Design and Build Quality
The Brydge Pro+ boasts a sleek and premium design that perfectly complements the iPad's aesthetic. Made from high-quality aluminum, it feels sturdy and durable in your hands. The keyboard itself is backlit, with adjustable brightness levels, making it ideal for typing in low-light environments. The Pro+ also features a 0-degree to 180-degree hinge, allowing you to adjust the viewing angle to your liking.
In contrast, the ZAGG Rugged Book has a more rugged and utilitarian design, as its name suggests. It's built with durability in mind, featuring a tough, rubberized exterior that can withstand rough handling and harsh environments. The keyboard is also backlit, but with fewer brightness levels than the Brydge Pro+. The Rugged Book's hinge is more limited, only allowing for adjustments up to 135 degrees.
Typing Experience
Both keyboards offer an excellent typing experience, but they differ in terms of key travel and tactile feedback. The Brydge Pro+ features a more traditional keyboard layout with deeper key travel (1.5mm) and a satisfying tactile bump, making it ideal for those who prefer a more desktop-like typing experience.
The ZAGG Rugged Book, on the other hand, has a slightly shallower key travel (1.2mm) and a more subtle tactile feedback. While this may not be as appealing to some users, it's still a comfortable and accurate typing experience, especially for those who are accustomed to typing on laptops or tablets.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both keyboards connect to your iPad via Bluetooth 5.0, providing a reliable and stable connection. The Brydge Pro+ is compatible with a wide range of iPad models, including the latest iPad Pro, Air, and mini. It also supports multi-device pairing, allowing you to switch between devices seamlessly.
The ZAGG Rugged Book is also compatible with various iPad models, but its compatibility list is slightly more limited than the Brydge Pro+. However, it does offer a unique feature called "Smart Keyboard" mode, which allows for more precise control over keyboard shortcuts and functions.
Additional Features
The Brydge Pro+ features a built-in trackpad, which supports multi-touch gestures and provides a more intuitive way to navigate your iPad. It also has a long-lasting battery life of up to 40 hours on a single charge.
The ZAGG Rugged Book, while lacking a built-in trackpad, offers a more rugged design and a built-in stand that can hold your iPad at multiple viewing angles. It also features a battery life of up to 24 months on a single set of batteries (depending on usage).
Conclusion
When it comes to keyboards for iPads, both the Brydge Pro+ and ZAGG Rugged Book offer excellent options. The Brydge Pro+ excels in terms of design, typing experience, and connectivity, making it an ideal choice for those who value a premium feel and seamless integration with their iPad.
The ZAGG Rugged Book, on the other hand, is perfect for users who need a durable and reliable keyboard that can withstand rough handling. While its design may not be as sleek as the Brydge Pro+, it offers a unique set of features, including a built-in stand and long-lasting battery life.
Ultimately, the choice between these two keyboards will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a premium typing experience and a sleek design, the Brydge Pro+ may be the better choice. However, if you need a rugged and reliable keyboard that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the ZAGG Rugged Book is an excellent option.
