I had the chance to review the iTilt iPad desk stand. Not as exciting as other gadget reviews, I know, but I’m open to receive new innovations in iPad accessories as they come. I typically just use my Apple SmartCover when I need something to occasionally prop-up my iPad while my hands are preoccupied working on another project, but I wanted to give the iTilt from Bracketron a try.
First impressions
When I was initially handed the iTilt to review my first thought was “Wow, this is small!” I was surprised by the compactness of the stand. It’s light and simple to use, which I think would make it a great travel companion for those needing a portable iPad stand. The iTilt is also very discreet when holding an iPad. No part of the stand juts out from the sides to get in the way, and only two rubber feet that hold the iPad from the bottom are visible when viewing it head on.
Functionality
The iTilt has a total of 8 different viewing angles for the iPad. It can also hold the iPad in either portrait or landscape, so you can find just the right angle where you feel most comfortable using your device. The general design can also hold the iPad in various cases, so there is no need to have a naked iPad while using the stand. The iTilt may also be compatible with a few other tablets out on the market, though your mileage may vary. I tested it out with a Galaxy Tab and Kindle Fire and found that the iTilt could only hold them while the tablets were in landscape – the iTilt’s footholds are too wide to hold these two tablets while in portrait.
After using the iTilt for a while I understand the appeal. The rubber feet on the base of the stand as well as additional rubber feet on the bottom where the iPad lays allows the iTilt to keep it firmly in place. I tried to knock my iPad over with several blows to both sides of it, ranging from occasional nudges to simulating a small earthquake. Wobbling aside, my iPad didn’t slide off the stand once. I like the different viewing angles, which provide a range of usability options. I used my iPad in landscape mode at the lower angles to type with the onscreen keyboard or draw some cartoons, and the steeper angles to type via a bluetooth keyboard or watch movies.
The Bottom Line
The discreet, compact, and simple yet sturdy design makes it a great gift for a traveling iPad owner (watch movies on the airplane, type up emails on a hotel room desk, etc.). The multiple viewing angles and case-friendly design also gives the iTilt kudos. At $12.99, it’s a reasonably-priced iPad accessory. If you’re looking for a general stand for your iPad that’s small and out of the way, give the iTilt a try.
I have four of these. It travels very well and works with a variety of cases. However, I found them at the “five Below” discount retail chain for $5.00. You can see a picture of this stand on the Five Below web site under “Cell Phone Accessories” –> “iPad Accessories”.