Review: Macally Ecostand2 for iPad 2

Is Macally Ecostand2 a case or is it a stand? It’s a little bit of both actually, and best of all, it’s eco-friendly too! This case and stand combo contains two parts — a plastic back case that fits nicely on the iPad 2 and the flexible bamboo stand.

The Case. The case is simple to put on. Simply snap the case on back of the iPad 2, and securely work your way around the edges to make sure it’s all in. It’s made of a hard plastic that’s dark gray in color. There’s cutouts for all the ports and buttons, including the back camera. The case only slightly covers the front edges. On the middle of the case is a large circular magnet. This part is used to attach to the bamboo stand.

The Bamboo Stand. The stand looks like a small cutting board but with flexible and bendable pieces in the center. To put the stand into a vertical stand, bend the bottom part down and back, and the top part at the angle you wish the iPad 2 to be in. The center piece should be at a 90 degree angle.

The stand does take a little bit of muscle power to move and position, but that’s a good thing because it means it’s sturdy when you use it as a stand. Not to mention, it looks very nice too, especially if you love bamboo.

To put the stand in a typing position, simple push the top part of the stand all the way down.

Using both the case and stand. Both the stand and case have magnetic pieces on them. To use them together, simple put the iPad 2 (with the case) onto the circular area of the stand. Be sure to use both hands when doing this. Once it’s in place, you can turn the iPad at any angle you wish. It’s one of the view stands that allow a full 360 degree rotation for various viewing angles and positions.

This stand and case combo is excellent for game playing or video viewing. And when you just want to use the iPad by itself, simple detach the iPad from the stand with a light pull.

One improvement I would make on this product is the case. The cutouts have some sharp edges that would be nicer if smooth, especially when the iPad is used without the stand. Overall, the Ecostand2 is beautiful to have and display in your home.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 starts · MacAlly.com · $39.99 · Amazon ($37.50)

Disclosure: This product was sent by Macally for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

iPad Case Review: Macally Snap-On Cases

If want a durable and lightweight case for your iPad, Macally may have what you’re looking for. Macally’s Metrobpad (Black Protective Snap-on Cover) and Metrocpad (Clear Protective Snap-on Cover) are cases that easily snap onto the iPad and protect the backing and four corners of it.

Metrobpad (Black Protective Snap-on Cover)
The difference with this case is the non-slip coating that helps you hold the iPad more securely. The surface of this case is very nice to the touch and is coated both on the interior and exterior of the case. The only downside is that you may find fingerprints on it if you tend to have oily fingers. However, this can be cleaned off easily with a hand wipe.

Metrocpad (Clear Protective Snap-on Cover)
This case is absolutely clear, making it almost invisible. Your iPad would look close to what it looked like when you unboxed it. Your beautiful Apple logo will display right through the case.

There are four small nubs on both of these cases, so when you put it flat on the table, only the nubs are touching it. Also, all of your connections and controls are open, so there’s no need to remove the case when charging, changing the volume, or plugging in the headset.

These cases are slim enough to fit in most loose fitting iPad sleeves. I highly suggest purchasing a sleeve for your iPad since the front side is not protected. These cases may be thin, but they’re not thin enough for the Apple iPad keyboard dock. You will need to remove it when docking it on the stand.

Luckily, removing the case off the iPad is an easy task. Simple push down on the two corners of one side and the case comes off.

Overall, these cases are perfect if you’re looking for a thin light hardshell iPad case. You can purchase the Metrobpad and Metrocpad at Macally.com for $29.99 each.

Disclosure: This product was sent by Macally for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.