Logitech FabricSkin Keyboard Folio for iPad Air review

The FabricSkin Keyboard Folio for iPad Air sits on top of Logitech’s range of cases designed for Apple’s slate. The cover combines a Bluetooth QWERTY keyboard and magnetic cover in a lightweight, solidly-built package.

Founded in Apples, Switzerland more than thirty years ago, Logitech is a leader on the market for computer peripherals and mobile accessories. The company’s products are synonymous with superior design and ergonomics, so I have nothing but high expectations towards its iPad Air case.

Design and build quality

The design of the Logitech FabricSkin Keyboard Folio for the iPad Air is dictated by the pursuit of durability and ergonomics. That considered, the cover looks ready for business, and almost completely free of unnecessary visual flares.

The cover looks understated

The FabricSkin Keyboard Folio is available in three color schemes – black/light gray, orange/light gray and dark gray/yellow. The black/light gray version I got to spend time with is undeniably the most serious looking from the bunch.

Build quality of the cover is in line with Logitech’s usual standards. The FabricSkin Keyboard Folio is made of water-repellant, soft-touch material which is ideal for handling heavy use without hiccups. Logitech also backs its offering with a rarely-seen, full two-year warranty – a major plus in my book.

The cover does a flawless job of keeping the iPad Air intact during an accidental drop, as it extends around all edges of the slate. Powerful magnets keep the case from opening by accident, while a duo of proprietary corner clips keep the slate firmly in its place.

Ergonomics

The Logitech FabricSkin Keyboard Folio for the iPad Air offers easy access to the tablet’s buttons and ports in both tablet-only and keyboard mode. It also allows you to enjoy the superb tactility of the iPad Air by partially exposing its edges.

The full QWERTY of the cover is one of the best around. It offers perfectly-spaced, full-sized membrane scissor type keys with iOS shortcuts and good tactile feel. It requires practically no time to get used to. To top things off, its buttons are sealed and splash proof to protect it from accidents, as well as allow you to easily clean it.

The full QWERTY is really good

There is only one viewing angle which the case offers in keyboard mode. More options would have been welcome, though I didn’t find their lack to be a dealbreaker.

The keyboard folds below the display in tablet-only mode. Thanks to the magnet functionality, you can use the case as a regular smart cover when desired – the keyboard doesn’t activate unless docked to the tablet.

The cover in tablet-only mode

Logitech claims that the FabricSkin Keyboard Folio offers up to three months of battery life on a single charge. Charging takes place via a supplied microUSB cable.

Wrap up

Solidly-built, feature-packed, and ready to handle just about everything life throws at it – the Logitech FabricSkin Keyboard Folio is one of the best QWERTY-equipped covers available for iPad Air at the moment.

The case isn’t the prettiest one around, but more than makes up for it with its superior ergonomics and splash-proof construction. It is better equipped for heavy use than any of its rivals.

The FabricSkin Keyboard Folio for iPad Air is priced at $149.99. You can pick one up in Logitech’s online store over here.