Go with ESR’s latest line of iPad accessories

Accessories maker ESR has recently introduced a new line of iPad accessories that aim to extend the iPad’s utility to regular users. They focus on users who often switch between many types of iPad: typing, drawing or writing, and general use of the tablet, such as playing games or watching videos.

Shift Magnetic Case

First up is a new take on the folio-style iPad case. As the name suggests, the Shift case is very flexible. It starts with a standard shell case that can protect your iPad at all times. After that you can add a folio section, which has many vertical and horizontal angles to choose from. A feature I like is that the magnetic placement of the folio is also flexible: you can use the iPad in landscape or portrait orientation. If you’re in landscape, you can also put the iPad up, which I found perfect for watching videos.

The case is made of rubber material, which I prefer to the silicone of Apple’s offerings. It also feels solid. Another nice feature is that, while there is a compartment on the edge of the iPad case for the Apple Pencil, there is also a pocket on the back. This is great if, like me, you don’t like cases with a large handle on the side of the case. The only negative thing about this case is that it is heavy and thick and all the parts are glued, so that’s something to keep in mind.

The Shift Magnetic Case is available for all recent iPad models except the iPad mini. This includes the latest iPad Pro (13-inch / 11-inch), iPad Air (13-inch / 11-inch), iPad, and the previous design of the iPad Pro (12.9-inch / 11-inch). It also comes in many colors: black, blue, green, brown, purple, pink, red, and silver. Prices range from $45 to $60, depending on your iPad model. You can view all options here.

Shift Detachable Keyboard Case

Similar to the magnetic case I mentioned above, the Shift Keyboard Case offers a combination of productivity and flexibility. Of course, the main feature here is the keyboard, which offers the full iPadOS experience: a taskbar, backlit keys, and a large trackpad with symbols.

The keyboard
The keyboard and case are very flexible. Because it pairs via Bluetooth, you can take it out and continue using it, or just put it away while keeping your iPad secure. This is great for typing while placing your iPad somewhere else, like a laptop stand. You can also set the iPad in portrait orientation and type that way, which is great for long typing sessions. Although the keys are missing indeed it’s as good as my MacBook, feels good, is backlit, and is full-sized (at least, on my 13-inch model). My only problem is that the trackpad feels cheap. I appreciate that its actual “click” part is in the middle, which means you can click anywhere (unlike the usual “diving board” design), but it gives off a cheap feel.

The case
The original case design builds on the standard kickstand design, incorporating additional features. First, as I mentioned earlier, the iPad can stand upright. This is great for viewing live content and FaceTime calls. Another added feature is a small flap on the top of the case that attaches to the kickstand to provide a low-angle surface perfect for drawing or writing. Finally, like the Shift magnetic case, it includes both an interior and a pocket for the Apple Pencil. When it’s all put together, the case is slightly thicker than Apple’s Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro, and weighs about the same.

ESR’s Shift Keyboard Case is available for all recent iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad models for around $90 (depending on iPad model). Comes in black/grey. You can view all options here.

Geo Digital Pencil

Of all the new accessories, this is my favorite. For only $37, this pencil shares the usual features of the USB-C Apple Pencil, and has some features that the Apple Pencil doesn’t. Geo Digital features full Find My support, which means it can be found by any device on your account, you can enable Lost Mode and show your contact information to anyone who finds it, and it has a speaker to play audio on demand. This is in contrast to the Apple Pencil Pro, which can only be accessed through Bluetooth proximity using a paired iPad.

In terms of drawing and writing, this pencil is almost on par with the USB-C Apple Pencil. That means it has the same low latency, tilt sensitivity, and magnetic attachment features. The only missing feature is the Apple Pencil hover, which based on the name, I don’t think any third-party pencil will have. And, for the sake of comparison, the Apple Pencil Pro has more features: wireless charging, pressure sensitivity, barrel roll, up, double tap, squeeze, and haptic feedback. Well, when the Geo Digital is only $37, I can’t really complain! As for the materials, the plastic feels about the same as the Apple Pencil, and it’s a little lighter in weight.

The Geo Digital Pencil is available for $37 and comes in white, black, blue, pink, and purple. Included in the box is a small USB-C charging cable and an extra pencil tip.

Armorite Screen Protectors

Finally, Amorite glass screen protectors. This isn’t really new, and I’ve been using ESR screen protectors for years with great success. Well, now they have a matte “paper-feel” option! This is great for anyone who primarily uses their iPad for writing or drawing.

One of the best things about these screen protectors is that they have an alignment tray, which makes installation very easy. This is common on phone screen protectors but I rarely see them on tablets, and it’s a welcome addition.

Standard glossy screen protectors are available in a 2-pack for about $25, and 2-packs of felt paper for about $30 (depending on iPad model). Both styles are available on all recent iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini, and iPad models.

My favorite Apple accessories: