iPad Recliner product reviews

When I read the description of this I had to wonder how it differed from any other stand you can buy... it wasn't until I started to put it through it's paces that I really discovered how clever this simple device really could be.

It's primary function is, as the name implies, to provide adjustable support for your shiny new iPad... but since we don't have them in NZ at the time of writing this review, we had to make do with a borrowed eReader unit, a notebook computer and a tablet PC.

The stand worked brilliantly on all three, providing each with good support at almost any angle needed for optimum viewing and usage. For the notebook, it is strongly advised NOT to attempt to use it's keyboard - this device works best if you have the notebook hooked up to an external keyboard and mouse, preferably through a docking port of some description.

The eReader unit was by far the easiest device to use while on the stand, as it requires minimal touching, and even then only light contact, reducing any chances of knocking it over... though even with a firm touch, the chances of that are minimal as the rubberised feet do an excellent job, and the long back foot creates a very stable platform unwilling to bow to finger-pressure.

The tablet PC was somewhere in between, with it's touchscreen and on-screen keyboard interface not needing as firm a pressure to activate as the laptop. It also works really well when you have it acting as a digital photo frame too.

Outside of the intended uses, this little recliner has a few other uses up it's sleeve... it makes a great stand for holding the cookbook open on the bench when you are making feijoa and apple muffins, it works a treat holding up a small canvas for painting on, and when fully reclined I was able to place a board on it and drape it all with a black cloth to make a tilted surface for photographing review stock items on... it would make MacGyver proud.

Overall, this little unit is a stunner, and I'd love to see it in retail shops everywhere. Yes, it's plastic... but that doesn't make it flimsy or 'cheap crap' by any means. It is dead easy to assemble, with only three parts - the main body, the adjustable foot, and a screw-knob locking mechanism. Literally, it took seconds to pull out of the box, and even less to assemble it. A good investment for those on the go, especially frequent travellers. Keep in mind though that it is a bit bulky for the laptop bag, and if space is a premium, you may wish to explore smaller, probably less supportive, options. Portable... to a degree.