HOU Keyboard Case for iPad Mini 6 2021 8.3", Ultra Slim Folio Type of Keyboard, Magnetic Detachable, Multi-Angle, Full Edge Protective Cover, 7-Color Backlit

Don't buy it. I received an older model. I checked on YouTube and saw that the one sent isn't the latest version. To make matters worse, it doesn't turn on. No, it simply doesn't work. Very disappointed, so I have to buy another one.

This particular model is the best iPad Mini keyboard case that I have ever used. There are quite a few things that make it a standout. For starters, the keyboard layout is 95% standard, and the 5% non-standard are the way they are because of the size of the keyboard. They’ve had to overload - _ + = ‘ and “ so that you have to hit CTRL and 7 8 9 0 ; or / to get those keys. Critically, the keys that are overloaded are spatially where they should be on the keyboard if it had been large enough to accommodate the additional keys. This was the right choice, and makes typing with the keyboard very natural and easy to adapt to. The keyboard itself has a great feel and good backlighting. Really, I haven’t seen another keyboard that is anywhere close to this good at this size. The next thing that makes this case a standout, especially for travel, is the protection and flexibility that the case provides for the iPad. The keyboard detaches esasily, at which point the iPad can be used with the kickstand in portrait or landscape modes. And, the case offers a good amount of edge protection to the iPad itself, without adding a huge amount of bulk. The case was pricey for me. It was around $120 CAD delivered. That is a lot for a no-name Chinese iPad keyboard, but having purchased many, many iPad keyboard cases over the years, it is hands down the best iPad Mini case I’ve ever used. Note that the same company makes older, similar versions of this case. The one that charges with USB C rather than the proprietary charger is worth the extra money and bother to buy.

I’ve heard that a common issue with iPad mini keyboard cases is how the keyboard is compromised in terms of layout and useability. I don’t think that’s the case here. The keys are very responsive and are not too small. The fact that this case does not have a track pad means that they’re able to have more key rows, minimizing any odd secondary fingerings required for special characters. I’m able to get around 70 to 80 wpm typing on this thing. The case itself feels very nice in terms of quality. The outer material is a soft leatherette material. I am really happy with this purchase. Some pros: - has sleep to wake function - Bluetooth connection seems pretty stable - battery life is pretty long. The keyboard sleeps after not using for a period of time - has an escape key, which the other HOU case doesn’t have Some cons: - a bit heavy but probably expected for any keyboard cases - you have to get used to using the control key for some special characters

This keyboard case is especially good for the size and the layout is much better than the keyboard in the "HOU ultra slim folio case" (longer spacebar, less keys where yo need to use "option" key to reach the "3rd option"). This keyboard also has a very useful function row and USB C charging. The kickstand is great for typing angles AND for portrait viewing (good for FaceTime, some typing). Overall kickstand is also better than the HOU ultra slim folio. Only downside is the thickness and weight. The ultra slim folio is nearly indistinguishable from a regular folio cover and yet is has a keyboard. While not heavy, this has a thin case around the iPad (nice feel, takes more purpose to use Touch ID) which offers protection. The combined thickness of the case and keyboard is noticeable, but not bulky. For now, I'm keeping this case and already sent ultra slim folio back because of the keyboard. If HOU was to update the keyboard on the Ultra Slim Folio to this layout, it would likely be my pick.

-- UPDATE AFTER 10 DAYS TRAVEL -- The keyboard is nice to type on, but it does not stay closed but flaps open, it needed a rubber band to keep closed. The worst feature is the keyboard that requires a flat surface to work on, like a table or a tray. It is impossible to type on with the device on one's lap. With the kickstand open the footprint gets large and it was nearly impossible to use on an airplane folding tray. Returning as it is not fulfilling the usage I needed. Someone should create a keyboard that opens like clamshell and keeps ipad up without a kickstand. -- ORIGINAL REVIEW 4 STARS -- The ipad case frame is solid and rugged that would survive a drop. Pencil Pro attaches well. Keyboard is responsive. The whole unit does add weight but it makes a very attractive little computer. The keyboard can be attached flipped backwards and wrap the back so the iPad can be held with the flap folded back without clicking the keys. The only suggestion I'd make is to add some kind of a closure mechanism so the keyboard part can be snapped closed. Nothing holds it and it can simply dangle open. So for travel or while in a bag, I need a rubber band to hold it all together. Possible solution for the maker is to add two small magnets at the corners of the keyboard that would snap to the iPad and stay closed. All in all this item exceeds my expectation for value.