I’m looking for a case that will allow my iPad to mimic a laptop in that you don’t have to do a balancing act on your lap to keep your iPad from following off the keyboard. It seems everywhere I look (Google), everything requires a flat and stable surface. Any bumps or shifts and the iPad would fall down.

Hopefully this makes sense and if so, any suggestions?

Thanks!

The Magic Keyboard is a little too heavy but works well on a lap. You might also check out Brydge Keyboards.

For the last decade the Brydge keyboard (clamshell) was what you are looking for. It was a really good but pricey keyboard. But in just the last couple of weeks word is they are officially kaput, with employee complaints of not being paid since January. I don’t know of anyone else who makes a keyboard like that, unless you can find one still stocked somewhere.

Most of the good options are all of the same foldable lid variety made to, like you said, stand independently on your table work surface.

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That explains the trouble in finding one. Zagg and Otterbox weren't helpful either. The Apple Magic Keyboard would work but it is $$$$$. I'm looking for a decent clone right now.

I was going to suggest the Brydge as that was my first iPad keyboard. Bummed to see that they are no long available.

If you spend the money on the Magic Keyboard you will not regret it. I literally sold my Mac laptop to someone here on the Forum after deciding that my 12” iPad paired with Magic Keyboard was pretty much just as good.