PADACS Tocatta & Rubata iPad 2 Cases with Bluetooth Keyboard – Accessory Review
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Australian based PADACS has a number of high quality iPad and iPad 2 accessories on the market and we’ve looked at several of them. Our latest review includes two cases with built in Bluetooth keyboards: the Toccata 2 and Rubata 2.
Toccatta 2
The Toccata 2 is a synthetic leather case with a built in Bluetooth silicone keyboard. It provides touch typists, gamers and serious iPad 2 users with the functionality they need in one professional looking accessory.
Open the case, fold it into position and type. The Toccata 2 offers users one viewing angle for typing or even watching a movie. Its improved keyboard has 76 keys, 13 of which are dedicated to iPad 2 functions (volume, brightness, home screen, etc.), and is large enough to type comfortably yet small enough to keep bulkiness in check. Because it’s not as large as a full size computer or laptop keyboard, typing is a little different, but still good enough to do some serious typing. Silicone keys guard against spills and crumbs.
Sturdy construction safeguards your iPad 2 during normal everyday use. The magnetic front cover secures and protects your device when not in use and the rechargeable lithium battery lasts up to 45 hours.
The Toccata 2 is available on the PADACS website for $59.95.
Rubata
Like the Toccata 2, the Rubata 2 is also constructed of synthetic leather and includes a built-in Bluetooth keyboard with special iPad function keys. The 83-key, hard plastic shell keyboard provides 17 iPad 2 dedicated keys.
I found the Rubata 2 comfortable and easy to use without adding to the overall size. Whether you’re on the go for business or sending email from home, this folder style case is a great iPad 2 accessory.
My device slid easily into position in both of these cases and a small flap tucked behind it helped to hold it securely in place. With my iPad 2 safely inserted into the case, I moved on to the next step, “discovering” the keyboard in Settings. To setup Bluetooth on the keyboard, press the Bluetooth key on the top right side of the keyboard. Once Bluetooth sync was activated on the keyboard, I was off and ready to go with a few taps of my finger. (If you’re not sure how to connect Bluetooth devices to your iPad, the easy-to-follow step-by-step instruction booklet will have you on your way in no time.)
Users have complete access to all iPad buttons and ports making charging, picture uploads and headphone usage a cinch. You’re able to type on both keyboards, use your iPad 2 in landscape mode and then close it up when you’re ready to go. Simply lay the iPad 2 flat, fold the case, secure it with the magnetic flap and your device will remain safe and well protected.
What we liked: Both the Toccatta 2 and Rubata 2 are well-made, comfortable and easy to use. Silicone keys on the Toccatta provide better protection from dirty situations like crumbs, spills and dust. Ninety hours of battery life on the Rubata
What we didn’t like: You can only type in landscape mode while the iPad is in the case.
To buy or not to buy: If you’re looking for a nice case with keyboard to get your dad for Father’s Day, the PADACS Toccatta 2 or Rubata 2 are definitely worth a look. Both are currently available in the US from the PADACS website.
