Skip to main content

This iPad case lets you use it like a laptop and adds a full keyboard in as well

ipad case lets use like laptop adds full keyboard well dock
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Last week we covered the CruxCase CruxEncore, which turns your iPad Air into a MacBook-like device complete with a full QWERTY keyboard and the ability to use your slate like a notebook. However, we just got wind of another case that aims to give the CruxEncore a run for its money.

Parle Innovations revealed the Pi Dock-It Pro, a protective case that essentially gives your iPad an additional form factor: laptop mode. On top of that, it serves as a protective case that’s constructed of polycarbonate, and outfits your iPad with a full, Chiclet-style QWERTY keyboard. The keyboard is both rechargeable and features Bluetooth connectivity, though it’s currently unclear what method is used to charge the keyboard found in the Pi Dock-It Pro. 

Recommended Videos

Though the additional of a Bluetooth powered keyboard is potentially awesome, we wonder how much bulk the Pi Dock-It Pro would add to your iPad. Though we don’t have its weight and measurements available to us at this time, we’ll update this story accordingly if and when we get a hold of that information.

The Pi Dock-It Pro is compatible with the iPad 2, iPad 3 and iPad 4, and retails for $159. It will be released on March 14.

What do you think? Sound off in the comments below.

Konrad Krawczyk
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Konrad covers desktops, laptops, tablets, sports tech and subjects in between for Digital Trends. Prior to joining DT, he…
Do you need antivirus software on an iPad?
Security symbol on an iPad in a stand on a table.

Did you just buy an iPad for yourself or family member? If the plan is to use that iPad for emailing, web browsing, gaming, and similar activities, then you’re wondering if you should install antivirus software like you would on a full-sized computer.

The short answer is no, you don’t need antivirus software on an iPad. But why not?

Read more
iPad Pro M4 vs. MacBook Air M3: a harder choice than ever
iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard.

The line between the iPad Pro and the MacBook Air has always been slim. Despite being very different devices, they're the two 13-inch devices in Apple's lineup -- and with the updated M4 iPad Pro, they are more competitive with each other than ever.

There's a lot we still don't know about the M4 iPad Pro, but here's a preliminary look at how the two devices stack up against each other.
Specs

Read more
The 6 best iPad alternatives in 2024
Green OnePlus Pad Android tablet on top of space gray 11-inch M1 iPad Pro 2021.

When it comes to tablets, few brands are as universally praised as iPad. Apple has done an incredible job with the entire lineup, ensuring there's a high-powered device for every type of activity. However, not everyone has bought into the Apple ecosystem, and if you own a Windows desktop PC or Android smartphone, you may not be interested in adding an iPad to your collection.

Apple certainly dominates the tablet market with iPad, but there are plenty of great iPad alternatives to choose from in 2024. Whether you want something budget-friendly or just as powerful as an iPad Pro, there's bound to be something that catches your eye. Here's a look at the six best iPad alternatives of 2024, including products from Samsung, Microsoft, OnePlus, and more.

Read more