Review: GroovBoard - Lap writing desk and stand for the iPad
I had never heard of the Groovboard until Thomas Borowski approached me via Twitter about reviewing his company's product. I generally don't do product reviews anymore but when I checked out the GroovBoard website, I was so intrigued that I asked Thomas a few questions and then said I'd be happy to check one out.
The GroovBoard functions as an lap desk and an iPad stand, with grooves for inserting your iPad and a Bluetooth keyboard (in flat mode, I found I didn't really need the keyboard groove; see above photo) as well as built-in holders for a stylus.
One of my first questions to Thomas: "How heavy is it?" The answer: Depending on the type of wood, a Groovboard can weigh between 1.7 to 2.6 lbs (800-1200 grams). I asked for the lightest type, so Thomas sent me the American walnut model:
My GroovBoard arrived from Germany in good condition, and I immediately tried it out to see what the weight was like:
Good news: I don't notice the weight at all. It's sturdy enough that I don't feel as if my iPad is going to tip it over, but it's not so heavy that the weight is uncomfortable. According to the website, there is also a GroovBoard cushion available. It's a bit too bulky for me to want to travel with it, but it's perfect for couch writing.
The GroovBoard also separates into two pieces in case you want to use it as an iPad stand/prop for watching movies or typing with or without the keyboard:
If you want to use it this way with a keyboard, just hang the keyboard from the upper groove:
That photo is from the GroovBoard site, by the way -- I don't wear nail polish. :-)
SUMMARY:
I've been using the GroovBoard for several weeks now, and I love it. So does my husband -- in fact, he says he plans to order one for himself. I keep my GroovBoard in the living room beside the couch. Some might also use it to do writing or watching movies in bed.
The model I reviewed (GroovBoard Walnut) costs $129 fro non-EU customers, plus shipping.
Where to find out more:
Website: http://groovboard.co
Twitter: https://twitter.com/groovboard
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Groovboard
