ZAGG Rugged Book for iPad Air 2 - Full Review

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This is a full review of the ZAGG Rugged Book for iPad Air 2. This is a bluetooth keyboard package with rugged protection. This is by far one of the best keyboards on the market that provide you the best protection possible while offering excellent versatility with your iPad.
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In this video I'll talk about the features of the new ZAGG Rugged Book keyboard case for the iPad Air 2. This model comes in black. I'm going to outline the Pros and Cons of this keyboard and how it compares to other keyboards.
Pros:
-Very solid case (secure and feels VERY durable) ... This would most definitely survive being dropped!
-Back cover is very solid and holds tightly to the iPad. The iPad will not accidentally pop out!
-Backlit keys
-Multiple viewing angles (135 degree)
-Multiple modes (Keyboard, Case Mode, book mode, Video Mode)
-All cut outs allow access to buttons & ports
-Smart magnet features wake/sleep iPad
-2 years of battery life
-Easy access to control center
-Keys feel good and are easy to type on
-Fairly easy removal of iPad from the case
Cons:
-EXPENSIVE! $150 (One of the more higher priced cases on the market)
-This keyboard is much thicker than most of the other keyboards on the market, but is expected since this is a "Rugged" version
-No portrait mode
-Book mode is a little awkward but does function ok.
Overall I think this is a great keyboard case, and the quality seems great. There are some design differences between this keyboard and the ZAGG Slim Book. The Slim Book is detachable just like this one but is much slimmer and offers less protection than the Rugged Book. Hope you found this useful for your buying decision. Don’t forget to like and subscribe and thank you for watching.

[@rescuehoundemtd]

I have had several of these. I keep breaking the hinge. Love it other than that hinge! I now have the zagg rugged book pro and it has a much better hinge. The hinge on the back is about 3 inches wide and it has lasted a lot long. Mind you I use my iPad CONSTANTLY.

[@JCourts2k23]

I had one of these on my iPad Air 2, and loved it and had no issues it. Just upgraded to iPad Pro 10.5, and they don’t have the hinged style rugged book anymore, just one called Rugged Messenger book, that connects to the keyboard with magnet, and the Pro, is actually help up with a Smart Cover looking thing that magnets to the back of the iPad. I honestly like the this Rugged Book much better than the new model

[@JoeTechie1]

I agree with you.

[@JoeTechie1]

Hi Darshana Jayasinghe I can't respond to your comment directly but to answer your question, I do not believe the iPad will bend or get damaged in this Rugged Book case. The back cover is very solid, which adds rigidity when the iPad is set in it. The only way I could see the iPad getting damaged is if it was stepped on or ran over. I'd say the iPad could possibly get damaged in the Slim Book case (little brother of the Rugged Book).

[@julian4ever831]

Yes I’m using with my gen 6

[@persse]

Julian Top Salesman hello! Im going to buy this for my ipad 6th gen and I have one q, does the hinge break?

[@JoeTechie1]

Hello Thepixelpusher. I cannot reply to your linked comment, but to answer your question, the hinge assembly is way more solid than the Slim Book. I have been using mine for a few months now without any issues.

[@SylentONE]

Thanks so much. I was afraid of breaking my brand New product because the hinge is so firm. I thought it was locked internally or something because of it

[@lizj4103]

You can place in book mode and it is secure. Face the iPad Air 2 screen away from the keyboard. Note also that this model, like mine, does not have the customizeable colors that Zagg advertises. Not real happy with that since that is what is advertised and you pay the same price for it.

[@JoeTechie1]

Liz J Hi Liz, yea, not sure why the Best Buy models are different than the rest and the same price.

[@winterphoenix09]

Ive had four of these. I keep getting them because they are bulletproof. Sorta. Though they are great at protecting the IPAD air, they fall apart within a year. Hinge issues, keyboard that stop working, usually after the warrenty expires. Sooo, would I recommend one? Not really.

[@davidkashmere2611]

Joe- Excellent review. Just the right length and hit the key points. Thanks.

[@JoeTechie1]

+David Kashmere Thank you.

[@jameselmore1780]

David Kashmere "Key" points

[@MoAntphonyMo]

I think this solidified my choice to get this case. I was about to get the clam case pro for the ipad air 2, but after reviews of ppl having it for a couple of months and cracking started appearing. This was the better solution.

[@JoeTechie1]

***** Interesting. I woud not have though the ClamCase would break so easily, but that's good to know. I've kept the Rugged Book as my personal choice out of all the keyboards I've tested so far.

[@e.darlenelundy-veo3157]

Hi, Joe! I bought the Zagg Rugged Book for my iPad Air2 long before I saw this video. I really do like it and would recommend it to anyone who is going to take their iPad with them wherever they go. When I bought this, I wanted an easy-to-use, back-lit keyboard so I could work on the lessons I have to create for my class. This fits the bill as I can work on lessons wherever, whenever and it makes typing a lot easier. However, the con for me is that there wasn't a users' manual with it, therefore, no instructions as to how long to charge the keyboard before using it. I do a lot of typing in Spanish and although I've figured out how to place the tilde over some of the vowels, but not how to do the upside-down exclamation mark and question mark. Any advice?

[@jennifertbanks7442]

I just got mine! Using it now! Thank you!!

[@DarshanaJayasinghe]

Do you think the hinge can damage the screen or bend the iPad?

[@aminogaming6441]

This an awesome video I am definitely going to get this for my iPad thank u

[@JoeTechie1]

+Amino Gaming. Thank you and thanks for watching.

[@fonsotrilla09]

i thought i was going to snap the hinge it was so stiff! love it so far. the case is very tight on the screen so i might push on some screen protectors

[@JoeTechie1]

alfonso hall Thanks for watching. Yes, I highly recommend a screen protector for the Air 2. It seems to scuff and scratch easily with the new anti-reflective coating.

[@marleyjane5124]

JoeTechie my screen is cracked. Will it crack it even more?

[@marleyjane5124]

JoeTechie and, where is the mouse? Do you scroll with your fingers or the keyboard?

[@asian2700]

Does it work with the new iPad 9.7?

[@JoeTechie1]

It would (if you mean the new iPad Pro 9.7), but possibly some of the cutouts might not fit exactly. But it would work if in a pinch to find a decent keyboard.

[@jonnierexposito8632]

I thought it wouldnt work found one used in best buy and it works just fine ithought it would be thight but it work just fine

[@CJloBaHuH]

work whit ipad 6th 2018?

[@MrDragon1990]

Yes they make one for yours and the other ones

[@typhoontom]

Outstanding presentation. I purchased one based on this video. Thank you!!!

[@JoeTechie1]

+Thomas DeMicke Excellent. Thanks for the feedback. Let me know how you like it.

[@typhoontom]

Will do. Thanks!

[@typhoontom]

+JoeTechie : Hi, this is Tom. I finally got my Zagg Rugged Book for my iPad Air 2. They shipped it at warp speed even though I paid the lowest shipping cost. But ... [wait for it] it was defective. It would not charge. The charging light would come on but would never turn green. It would just flash randomly and would never power up. I called them and had them on the phone within less than 3 minutes. Superior customer service. The told me they would send another one and not to worry about shipping the defective one back. So it is on the way. It was indeed challenging to get it in the case, but I made it more difficult for myself than need me. I should have carefully followed your video but kinda went on my own. I eventually got it in. Anyway, I'll let you know how the replacement works out for me. I'm still every optimistic. Dang, this thing is HEAVY!!! That's my only con but worth the protection. I could actually take my iPad out Geocaching now without worrying about it getting dirty or all dented up. Thanks again for your great review! Tom

[@JoeTechie1]

+Thomas DeMicke Wow, sorry to hear it was defective, but sounds like they are taking good care of you. I have not had that issue before with any ZAGG product.

[@grantkramer6340]

Yeahhhhh thx man good review as always 👍👍👍

[@JoeTechie1]

Grant Kramer Thanks Grant :)

[@edvinmolander7726]

Thanks for the answer

[@warrenmcclure7819]

Seeing you open and close the iPad keyboard case gives me heart attacks. So much pressure on one side while opening any keyboard case can break it, glad it didn't break xD Thank you for the video, how is this case holding up!?

[@JoeTechie1]

I have a new one because I upgraded my iPad to the 2017 model. It is thicker than the Air2 so I had to change the keyboard case. The new model RuggedBook seems a little thicker and heavier duty than the previous version. It's holding up quite well and has no issues at all. I don't really like the bulk to be honest, but I do like the protection it offers.

[@rsswga]

heavier and thicker..? what did you expect? . excellent case

[@JoeTechie1]

Indeed. Thanks for watching.

[@thepixelpusher]

Joe is the hinge on this one more solid than the Zagg Slim Book version?

[@swami1]

The "wobble" you highlight at 10:10 is an issue for me. I just replaced my iPad 3 with an Air 2. The older iPad had a Zagg Folio that had no wobble at all(because there was no hinge). I ordered a ClamCase for the Air 2, and it has the same wobble problem. Is there a hinged iPad keyboard that has no wobble? Good, informative video, btw.

[@JoeTechie1]

+richard speck I believe on of the closest cases to what you had is the Belkin QODE Ultimate Pro, which I also did a review on. Please check that one out if you have not already. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4WTZaeagN-Mg8U AS for the wobble, I'll be honest, the Rugged Book seems to have the least amount of wobble out of all the keyboards that I've looked at. I'd also say the wobble is comparable to most laptops on the market. I ended up with a different Rugged Book than the one I reviewed which has a bit less of the wobble shown in my review, but does not bother me compared to my review of the Slim Book wobble.

[@swami1]

I got the QODE but didn't like it. The magnets didn't hold the iPad strongly enough. It kept falling out. So I need a true folio case.

[@JoeTechie1]

+richard speck Ahh, I see. I saw the same issue with the magnets as well.

[@russelltaylor3282]

Have you encountered and issues with it disconnecting from Bluetooth after closure and having to reconnect?

[@JoeTechie1]

I have not. But have seen similar issues in other cases with bluetooth devices. If the keyboard does not wake up after a few seconds of pressing any key, then try to delete the device from your iPad and set it back up again. You may have to put the keyboard back in pairing mode to do this.

[@mjgutierrez16]

Can i use this in a portrait mode?

[@JoeTechie1]

Mary Jane Gutierrez Hi Mary, this is one of the few features that you cannot do with this model (same with the Slim Book).

[@kash7553]

Would you still recommend this product? I’ve seen several people complaining about the hinge has broken.Are there any better keyboards which are protective and good

[@JoeTechie1]

Hi, I have not heard of others talking about the hinge breaking, but it did happen to me after almost a couple of years of usage. The one thing to note that I think caused it was when I got the newer 2017 iPad and put it in the same case made for the iPad air 2 (which is thinner). It still fit, however the newer iPad was noticeably thicker and also thicker fitting in the hinge. The end result was the hinge split in half down the center from opening and closing with the new iPad wedged into the smaller hinge. I've since then gotten a newer Rugged book made for the new iPad and have not had any issues at all. If you bought this and it has been less than a year, Zagg should replace the defective item for you.

[@kash7553]

JoeTechie thanks so much for replying maybe a review?haha doesn’t matter now they just released 3 new cases at ces.For the iPad 9.7inch there’s the rugged messenger or the slim book go only

[@IngwiePhoenix_nb]

How far can you bend it backwards on the hindge? And, is there a case that bends even further back?

[@JoeTechie1]

+Ingwie Phoenix Hi, it opens up to 135 degrees of varied viewing angles. Hope that helps.

[@IngwiePhoenix_nb]

JoeTechie It does, yes. Thanks!

[@snuggy4716]

JoeTechie I opened it a little too much and now my ipad doesn’t hold up CAN YOU HELP ME

[@nashythegreat18]

Best video

[@TheGingerHairGel]

Hi Joe, Been looking for a laptop for university and i came across these keyboards. I was wondering if you have a separate laptop or you use an iPad as a laptop equivalent/replacement. If so How would you replace programs such as Microsoft Word (i know they have released a subscription but i think that is a bit pricey for college) Sorry for the long and complicated question. Thank you for these videos they are amazing.

[@JoeTechie1]

+TheGingerHairGel Hi, and thanks for watching. This subject can be tricky, as there can be several things to consider and largely depends on your computing needs. I consider myself more than a power user so I still do personally have a need for a laptop/PC (in my case I use a MacBook Pro). I'll admit, if I didn't have some of the needs, I could most likely live completely from an iPad, however I'd look into getting the larger capacity version (128GB). It's worth getting the space so you don't run out of local storage, or you will be forced to store everything in cloud apps like DropBox, Google Drive or One Drive. There are pros and cons to to both an iPad or a laptop. I'll start putting together a video to identify these differences. For now, just know that you can get Microsoft Office on for your iPad (yes, you're right, it's a bit pricey). A great alternative to Office is Google Docs, or also the free app equivalents for iPad (Pages, Numbers and Keynote...these used to be paid apps at one time). You can print from your iPad (with certain paid apps, or depending on if you have an Air Print printer, or other major brand) There are manufacturer apps like HP and Samsung that let you print from the iPad with their respective devices. One major shift from an laptop vs. an iPad is that a mouse cannot be used. An added bonus is the possibility that` you might be able to get electronic versions of your books from school to download on to your iPad (which might require a computer using iTunes if using the iBooks app). Sorry for the long response. There is much to cover with this subject and I've barely scratched the surface. Good luck.

[@TheGingerHairGel]

+JoeTechie Thank you very much, looking forward to that video!!

[@swami1]

I've gotten a Rugged Book and am comparing it with the Clamcase. The Rugged Book is very rugged; the keys have a somewhat "loose" feeling to them, but other than that I like it. There is one issue: the buttons covering the iPad's volume controls are very stiff and need to be pressed very hard to work. Does this improve with use?

[@JoeTechie1]

+richard speck I think mine did improve a bit over time, or I may have gotten used to it.

[@shawnmonti4034]

So you like this one better than the slim book?

[@JoeTechie1]

This is the golden one for me :)

[@tigercry5177]

I wonder how well I can navigate without a mouse? I am hoping this to replace my laptop. I am tired of window glitches and too slow. I would have got a MacBook. But this is the only way to get cellular service conveniently.

[@JoeTechie1]

***** Hi Sunny. Switching to a tablet can take some getting used to. I use my iPad daily and it does about 80% of my computing tasks. It only falls short for me since I'm a "power user". I still need to crank up my Mac or PC to do more advanced tasks like doing Graphics in PhotoShop, editing my videos in Final Cut Pro, syncing my iTunes music, etc. Otherwise, I hardly use an actual computer for anything. If you are concerned about cellular service to have access to the internet, there are the Mifi (or also known as the "pucks") to get your connection. All of the major cellular providers carry them for a monthly service fee. The neat thing about them is you can share the internet connection with other devices more effectively.

[@MrDragon1990]

i want one for my ipad 6 gen but to much money for it

[@MrDragon1990]

Hellp

[@JoeTechie1]

Hi. Yes they can be pricey. These products are charged at a premium, unfortunately.

[@HenkBinnendijkDeventer]

Thanks Joe, this is very helpful.

[@JoeTechie1]

+Henk Binnendijk Thanks for watching.

[@grantkramer6340]

Also just wondering what app are you using for the testing.

[@JoeTechie1]

Grant Kramer Not sure what you mean. Are you talking about the app I used to do the typing test? That was Google Docs.

[@traiton6653]

Joe would this look fine with a white IPad Air 2

[@JoeTechie1]

+Aceofatlantis I think its looks fine. Here's a couple of examples I found: zdnet2.cbsistatic.com/hub/i/r/2015/07/30/835e49d5-44e2-43d7-8aa9-f6cf16d91b1a/resize/1170x878/131a15c757132d757bfecf60d5afffe5/06-zagg-rugged-case-book-mode.jpg pocketnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/ipad-mini-zagg-rugged-folio-review.jpg

[@BrandQual]

is there a way to purchase this case and get it shipped in Europe? because there is no such option in ZAGG's official website ?

[@JoeTechie1]

+Sotires Ellinides It looks like it's available on the Amazon EU site www.amazon.co.uk/gp/gateway-eu

[@rainmarie2340]

I have the same one as u but idk how to screanshot 😢

[@JoeTechie1]

The 2 buttons on the upper left (home and lock) pressed together will take a screen shot).

[@voxascale5316]

I love my case so far. I have the iPad Air 2 case, and Ive looked everywhere, but I dont understand something. Is there any other color options for the backlit keys for the Air2 cases? I can only see white and Ive tried the methods Zagg uses but there is none so far that worked :/

[@JoeTechie1]

+Kitty Eversole You probably have the single color version like I have. I have not seen any yet with multi color backlit keys.

[@melaniacastillo4692]

Cool

[@Ytmetzc]

Does this keyboard change backlit colors?

[@JoeTechie1]

There are some that do, but the one I have does not. Mine only shows in white.

[@gabefernandez4089]

Someone please help I got mine today and I can only turn on the white backlight? I have the iPad Air 2 version

[@JoeTechie1]

Mine does the same thing. There apparently were some models (unmarked) that only have one backlit color. You may want to contact ZAGG support to see about that.

[@JoeTechie1]

Just did some reading on Amazon's site and they now finally state the Air2 version of the Rugged Book does not have multi color. What I find strange is that I had someone else comment before stating theirs does have multi color. I'm not sure if they ended up with the Air (first gen) version though. If they did, it the Air 2 should not fit correctly...it would be a loose fit in the back cover. amzn.to/2ah6tTz

[@mohitkalaria007]

Hi Joe, I was wandering whether the LED Backlit is multi-color like Zagg Folio Keyboard or just one color? Do you recommend this keyboard for iPad Air?

[@JoeTechie1]

Mohit Kalaria Hi Mohit Kalaria, This one only has a single backlit color (white). I obtained this one directly through ZAGG and that is how they come. The BestBuy version is the same. The brightness of the backlit keys cannot be adjusted either. I find this peculiar considering they have other products that have this feature (and cost less).

[@mohitkalaria007]

JoeTechie Thanks a lot Joe. However I found out that the one they sell in Canada has a option for multiple backlit color and three brightness levels adjustments.

[@JoeTechie1]

Mohit Kalaria That's awesome. I wish they offered that version here.

[@thetechfreak9584]

How do you turn on the sleep/wake feature, like the Smart Cover?

[@JoeTechie1]

+TheTechFreak Hi, the feature is enabled by default when open and close the keyboard case. If you want to disable the feature (not recommended to conserve your battery) you can go to Settings > General > Lock/Unlock (turn off to disable).

[@thetechfreak9584]

+JoeTechie I think my case is defective. I am hoping I will get another one from Zagg

[@JoeTechie1]

+TheTechFreak They carry a 1 year warranty. Contact ZAGG support and they will arrange a free replacement, and you'll be able to ship the old one back.

[@maroonblood151]

do the backlit keys on this model change color?

[@JoeTechie1]

maroonblood151 Sorry, they sure don't. I wish they did. We have another ZAGG product in the house that has multi colored backlit keys and we love that feature.

[@maroonblood151]

JoeTechie regardless, would you still consider this the best option for a keyboard case atm? The thing that keeps bringing me back to this case is the ability to de-tach the tablet from the keyboard. Just wondering if there's anything better out there. Price isn't a concern I just want quality!

[@snuggy4716]

My case can’t hold up my ipad anymore CAN ANYONE HELP PLEASE!

[@JoeTechie1]

Interesting. I'm suddenly having an issue with mine now after all this time. Cracked in the center of the hinge.

[@blowmeracing]

Same concept, not same design...the rugged book is far better design than there slim book...just got mine for Air 2, and I'm impressed..we will see in few month if I'm still impressed..

[@JoeTechie1]

Chris Smith I agree. Way better design. Since ZAGG couldn't make the Slim Book right, they are going to give me the Rugged Book. Hope they get around to redesign the Slim, as I prefer that one, but not if it's going to break in a day or 2.

[@iSuperTouch]

Does the Backlit colour change?? or just white backlit?? please reply thanks

[@JoeTechie1]

Hello there. This one does not, but I've heard there are some out there that do. I have not seen one myself.

[@edvinmolander7726]

Could i change colour on the light at the keyboard?

[@JoeTechie1]

There are some models out there that some folks have claimed it does change colors but mine does not, so I cannot speak to this, unfortunately.

[@snuggy4716]

Mine does

[@GOTH_JAY_1]

Dude....i cant even turn my backlight

[@JoeTechie1]

Sorry to hear that. Did you swap it out for a new one?

[@jmb65541]

Can you pair this with phones or other devices

[@JoeTechie1]

Hi, I believe you can pair it with other devices, but only one can be paired at a time.