Getting my first iPad Pro is definitely unforgettable. It was my first time to go inside an Apple Store as a “going to buy and not just browsing” customer.
And I was wearing a mask. It’s a must. (Is that a pun? Can’t help it.)
Oh my. I went out of the store spending more than I plan for (was there any plan in the first place?). My budget was ruined by two iPad Pro accessories that I didn’t think I need until I get my hands on grey space iPad Pro 12.9 with 256 GB.
I will always wonder whether should I get a 512 GB instead. What for? Overthinking. Overspending.
My iPad Pro Accessories
From two iPad Pro accessories, I keep on buying other gadgets that I can use with my iPad.
1. Apple Pencil (2nd Generation)
Right at the bat, I fell in love with Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) though not at its hefty price of $169 but I have no regrets.
I’m using it for writing notes, doing monthly budget, and practicing script (because I am bad at it and I only realize now how relaxing it is).
After using it for a few days, I realized how slippery it is so I bought an Apple Pencil case (the cheapest accessories for $8.99) made of silicone and comes with tip cover. With better grip I enjoy writing, scribbling, and doodling more.
2. OtterBox Symmetry Series 360 Case
Buying OtterBox Case might seemed like a rush when I bought it along with my iPad Pro 12.9 and Apple Pencil. Later on I realized that I made the right decision.
It saved me the trouble of researching for iPad case. Sure I can save more rather than shelling out $100 for a case but I rather spend time on using my iPad for blogging and other productive tasks.
Besides, there’s nothing bad I can say about the OtterBox cases other than its limited color. I wish to have dark grey or black instead of dark purple which is not bad at all. The transparent back adds appeal and the rubber corners make it easier to remove the case.
Related Post: Tzumi Bluetooth Keyboard with Folio Case
3. Spigen Camera Lens Screen Protector
By far Spigen Camera Lens Screen Protector is the second cheapest ($14.99) among my iPad Pro accessories.
The fact that the camera is seldom used means I have to use a camera lens screen protector because I’ll likely forget about it, keeping one spot always clean and dust free.
I’ve tried IKEA augmented reality and a few selfies and I was done. Without LIDAR and other high tech camera feature will the iPad Pro be less expensive? Making it pro consumer budget.
Veering into consumerism because of a hardly use camera.
Anyway. Spigen camera lens protector comes with two screen protectors. Do I need a spare?
4. Paperlike
Speaking of spare, I almost forgot about Paperlike. It’s a screen protector that leaves a paper like feeling when writing on the screen.
For $50 (2 screen protectors) I think its expensive considering there are many screen protector in the market.
I learned about it from Fernando Silva and Noah Herman; they are vloggers who make lots of videos about iPad. It’s my habit to watch videos about the things I like to buy months or years before sacrificing my wallet.
How many times I dare not look to an ice cream and sweet bread and walk down the aisle holding on to my thought, “I do . . . need an iPad.”
5. B046 Jelly Comb Bluetooth Keyboard
This is my go to Bluetooth keyboard when I’m writing. I can take it anywhere with me instead of Keychron K3 which is a bit loud for an afternoon in a library.
The only downside is its weight (1.56 lbs) and characters mix up which I cannot fix try as I may.
I hope this doesn’t happen to Keychron K3, another Bluetooth keyboard for my iPad Setup.
6. Keychron K3
Last year I bought Keychron K3 on Kickstarter and was stunned on how long I have to wait. Can you guess?
Almost four months.
It’s understandable considering the worldwide health status quo that we are dealing for about a year now.
Well I cannot give feedback in a few days; I have to use K3 for a month or so for a more accurate personal review.
But I realized something when I carry my iPad and Jelly Comb keyboard in one had. Both are heavy together. So I am thinking of using the iPad with K3 in a library nook where people rarely venture. Archive section?
7. Lapdesk Table
Most of my post were written while I am sitting and typing on my bed using a pillow or a laptop table. It all depends on my mood and backache.
Maybe I should get up at least every 30 minutes and not every washroom break.
For $55.99 I bought a wood lapdesk table. In hindsight I should have chosen a wider tabletop which is hard to find. This is a negligible drawback.
Wouldn’t it be best to focus on the upside.
I love the little drawer where I keep my Apple Pencil and a pen (which I rarely use because of the former). The selling factor of my wooden laptop table is its adjustable legs.
And for the neat freak, you’ll be happy to know that it’s easy to clean like my IKEA furniture. (Should I skim through a compulsive cleaning article and call it a writing break?)
8. SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD (500 GB)
I haven’t use it on my iPad but I knew that it will work once I have the need to store something from my iPad. To make it work, I’ll need a USB-C hub though. Someday.
Something irrelevant but worth mentioning: I was able to save files to SanDisk Extreme ($139.99 on BestBuy) from my Toshiba Satellite laptop.
Do you have anything in mind that I should add to my iPad Pro accessories?
Wishlist for iPad Setup
And the list goes on for my iPad accessories but I still have to save for some “I want” gadgets.
1. Logitech MX Anywhere 3. Why is this so expensive? But I still want a reliable, Bluetooth mouse. I’ve been using wired since the dawn of trackball; it is time for a change.
2. Xbox X-Series Controller. This is the definition of excess for me. I am not a gamer but I do want to play the old school Tetris and Super Mario. Wouldn’t it be nice to use a controller?
Or should I just get a Game & Watch Super Mario Bros Nintendo Consoles?
I watched Average Tech Guy successfully connecting Xbox Controller to an iPad. The guy save me a lot of time researching for what will work or not.
3. iPad Stand. I’m still debating with myself if I need this because I rarely sit on my office desk and write.
Right now, I am finishing this post in my kitchen where half an hour ago I had breakfast while watching anime.
Maybe I’ll have an iPad stand someday from Satechi. I didn’t think I’ll be able to buy a Joby GripTight PRO TelePod last year but I did. (Thanks to the gift card I won in a contest.)
Related Post: Should You Buy the AmazonBasics 50-Inch Tripod
Maximizing Productivity
My goal is to increase productivity in using my iPad with the help of iPad Pro accessories. I don’t want to keep spending on gadgets that I can’t use for blogging or leisure.
I am excited to learn digital arts using my iPad that’s why I downloaded Procreate.
So many things to do. So little time when you are having fun.
What iPad accessories you like the most and has up your game or simply makes your life easier?
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