Zagg Rugged Book Pro Review – Stay Connected!

It’s not often that we mention or post handheld device case reviews but today we are going to introduce an outstanding addition to our IPad Air 2 we picked up at CES 2017; the Rugged Book Pro, by Zagg.

Now, you may recognize them from winning our innovation award last year with the Flex Arc Wireless, an around the neck Bluetooth speaker pair with retractable earbuds. Unfortunately, Zagg had no mention of plans to further the Flex Arc which was disappointing in our personal opinion but they showed us a new product, the Rugged Book and we are here to introduce that to you and explain why for all you on the go folk, business or hobbyist the Rugged Book should be your next purchase.

With the plethora of protective covers and Bluetooth accessories out there it is hard to differentiate and choose between the best and most beneficial and usually comes down to two options, price and aesthetics. As long as it connects and works with your device there isn’t much more to go off of when looking on the shelf for such products.

Zagg hits the nail on the head in our opinion here. The Rugged Book Pro is suited for the IPad Pro 9.7” version but also is compatible with the IPad Air 2 which we will be reviewing it with today.

This device in our opinion is a must have for those who need the interaction of a computer, on the go, but for those who don’t want to carry around a full laptop. This case/keyboard duo turns your IPad into just that. The keyboard acts as both a keyboard and a screen protector when the device is not being used.

The Rugged Book Pro features four layers of protection to help guard your device against impact and corner damage; most notably are the reinforced corners, steel frame under the keyboard giving added protection and the mix of durable silicone rubber and the rugged polycarbonate in the case, keyboard, and hinge just ensure the safety and security of your device.

The main issue that we had with the Rugged Book Pro was when we actually would drop the device. The magnetic keyboard pops right off leaving your screen completely unprotected and frankly after the first intentional drop on a carpet, seeing the keyboard fly off, we wouldn’t recommend using this case if you are going to be dropping your device or there is any chance you may.

The back side of the case itself has a loop at the top to hold your IPad pro Stylus as well as a kick-stand to hold your device up at a viewing angle of your preference.

The laptop-style keyboard has a magnetic hinge and is detachable, but being Bluetooth connected, still functional. While we are on the topic of Bluetooth functionality, this device is able to hold memory to three devices. Each connects to a different Bluetooth button up at the top of the keyboard as shown below.

Other buttons at the top allow you to click the “Home” button, “Lock” the device and pop up and drop the on screen keyboard. There’s also a full set of Multimedia keys to interact with your device further.

With a battery life that claims to last up to two years…yes, two years, for us to perform a full review would take quite some time. We have had this device since January and with almost daily use haven’t charged it from the night we received it. To put it in perspective though, the keyboard will outlast your device battery hundreds of times over.

The Rugged Book Pro is overall a great case/keyboard combo for your iPad. We wouldn’t recommend this for outdoor travel or any situation where you may drop the device as the keyboard will pop off and you may damage your screen. However for regular travel and a little added protection this case performs amazingly and is a great addition to your device. The Rugged Book Pro has a steep price tag at just under $150, but none the less earns our Silver Seal.

Order your Zagg Rugged Book Pro on Amazon!!!