Review on ZAGG Messenger Compatible Built Multiple Device by Matthew Goyette

After a short evaluation of the Logitech Slim Combo for my iPad Pro 10.5 (alongside the Apple Smart Keyboard) it was clear that this wasn't my choice and I went for the KuGi case (with IVSO keyboard). After more than 3 months with the last defects, I started looking for a replacement. (Limited iPad edge protection, ineffective pen holder, weak keyboard, no backlight.) Pros: - Rugged design, good protection - iPad sleeve detachable from keyboard - Integrated pen holder - Backlit keyboard - Efficient audio redirection - Relatively low price. $$- Magnetic wake/sleep mode for iPadCon- Thick and heavy- Large footprint (in laptop mode)- Doesn't use smart jack- Keyboard backlight is distracting- No portrait orientation So ZAGG seemed like a good choice for full protection and one Solid backlit keyboard. First contact reminded me of old laptops as the massive 0.9″ adds weight to that thick lid. That's significantly more than the 0.5" KuGi/IVSO. I usually don't care if the keyboard is detachable, but with this beefy keyboard it's a great idea. Although it's thinner than the Logitech Slim Combo, it is ZAGG Messenger is neither light nor thin.In fact, it is significantly thicker and heavier compared to an Ultrabook (see Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro image for example), although the Ultrabook is arguably more functional.Of course, you don't want a bare Ultrabook of the nominal height of 6.6ft, which ZAGG claims will survive. The regular-wrist keyboard is closer to the extreme edge and takes up more real estate than the similar Logitech Create. I'd like to see someone's design idea from Rediscovered Logitech Type+ and just added a useful pen holder and illuminated keyboard.The ZAGG has magnets to wake the iPad up when opened, but the Bluetooth keyboard has to be manually activated will switch off if you keep them in idle mode, which takes a second or two to wake up. This seems like an awkward omission, but the good news is that the keyboard won't activate this way when it's not needed (e.g. if you're using an iPad with the keyboard folded and activating the keys will be in the way can). The backlight is a very desirable feature to me, and while the 7 different colors are a gimmick, the three levels of brightness are not. It's generally a good view, although the glare from light entering at the edges is a little distracting. The pen holder is molded on the inside and provides a comfortable and secure position for the pen, although it can also block access to the volume buttons. What's nice is that it sticks to the iPad case even when it's removed from the keyboard. Another nice feature of the iPad case is the redirected audio. Instead of just making holes next to the speakers, the case has 4 slots facing the user and the sound is effectively directed there. There are no latches to keep the lid closed and it relies entirely on magnets. It's effective enough to keep it closed. So overall very functional. It's meant to convey stiffness, and "pretty" doesn't apply here. It's also a bit clumsy to get a glowing recommendation. Other than that, this is one of the best covers I've used so far.