Best iPad Accessories for Entrepreneurs
Eight hardware options to make your tablet work harder.
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Who says tablets aren't good for business? The iHome iDM5 turns your iPad into a fully tricked out workstation.
The iPad is quickly growing in popularity among start-ups and small business owners, and it's no surprise why. With an endless range of apps and improving functionality, the tablets are great multi-taskers at the office.
Want to make your iPad even more functional? Check out these plug-and-play hardware options that address some of the iPad's current limitations (hello, battery life?):
Sena Keyboard Folio
Cost: $149.99
This leather carrying case has an integrated Bluetooth keyboard and folding kickstand. Beyond the obvious benefits of protecting your device and giving you a more comfortable way to type, it's also elegantly designed. Heck, it's even fashionable. Be prepared to pay for the style, however: Units don't come cheap.
Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit
Cost: $29
Digital cameras still produce better images than smartphones and tablets on average, especially under dimly-lit conditions. That's why you might want to pick up this connection kit, which can import photos and videos onto the iPad via your camera's USB cable or SD card. Support for JPEG and RAW images, and SD and HD video formats (H.264, MP4, etc.), make it especially handy for social media campaigns or those needing to capture low-light shots at product demos or events.
Zagg Apple iPad Screen Protector
Cost: $34.99
As with your laptop screen, it pays to guard your tablet PC's display from scratches, dents, and dings. Zagg's drop- and damage-resistant screen protectors protect against wear and tear, and come with a free lifetime replacement warranty.
Wacom Bamboo Stylus
Cost: $29.99
Effective as the iPad's touchscreen may be for casually drawing or jotting down notes with a finger, graphic designers, artists, and architects may find it offers inadequate precision when performing complex tasks. Try this hefty stylus with a rubberized tip. It sits comfortably in the hand and allows for more elegant sketches and designs when using PhotoShop Express or other art applications.
Apple Digital AV Adapter
Cost: $39
The new iPad's 9.7-inch, LED-backlit display provides an attractive way to screen websites, presentations, apps and video walkthroughs - but its size makes it impractical for group viewing situations. This video adapter, which connects with HDTVs and HDMI-compatible displays, lets you instead output high-definition photos and film clips to a full-sized television set or monitor for more effective screenings.
iHome iDM5 Executive Workstation
Cost: $129.99
An all-in-one solution for mobile professionals, this "Bluetooth keyboard speaker system" (read: full-service workstation) provides a physical keypad, stereo speakers, and two USB ports for device charging. Using it, you can videoconference, play music while working, and recharge mobile gadgets all while you're getting work done.
Logitech Tablet Keyboard
Cost: $69.99
A combination full-sized Bluetooth keyboard and stand, Logitech's portable carrying case also guards against drops, spills, and harm. Plus, it has integrated multimedia controls and can function up to 30 feet away from your device.
Kensington PowerBack Battery Case
Cost: $79.99
While the iPad offers entrepreneurs ample productivity tools and entertainment solutions, heavy app or wireless usage can suck the life out of your battery–fast. Add up to five extra hours of juice with this protective, battery-powered case. It also has a built-in kickstand for better viewing in portrait, landscape, or typing modes.
