Best iPad stand – top picks for aluminum iPad stands

I’m sure you all know what a cool device the iPad is. And why not particularly a big fan, because it lacks the productivity of a standard tablet PC (with a keyboard and a touchscreen), I enjoyed playing with one of these Apple gadgets for a while.

Built for web browsing and multimedia, I’m pretty sure many of you owning one use it for watching movies. Or, if you pair it with a keyboard, use it on your desk as a non-conventional computer, from time to time. And for all these activities you will need a proper iPad stand, one way better than the one Apple sells in their stores (which is expensive and stupid, to say the least).

The good things is that there are quite a couple of options. I’ve tried some, others I’ve just spotted online from discussion groups. One thing is for sure: I would totally go for an aluminum iPad stand right now, as they have the proper looks to match the Apple tablet, the reliability and the necessary ergonomics. See some interesting options below.

Griffin A-Frame Tabletop Stand

One of the most popular stands for the Apple iPad is the A-Frame from Griffin. Built out of aluminum, comes with a very sturdy design and will hold your device in place firmly. Plus, the areas in contact with the table/desk are padded with slip-proof rubber feet. And it looks quite good, although it is a little bit bulky.

It is very versatile, allowing the iPad to be used in both Landscape and Portrait modes, while keeping the power/sync cables connected at all time. Also, if you have a case or cover for your gadget, you won’t have to take it off when placing it on this a-frame stand.

Like i said, this Griffin accessory is not actually compact. It’s bulky and weighs nearly the same as the iPad does, so it’s not a stand you can easily carry around. But hey, you can’t have something as sturdy and reliable, while keeping it light, can you?

This Griffin A-Frame Tabletop comes with a list price of $49.99 on Griffin’s site, but you can find it on Amazon for only $36.99 (25% discount), where it managed to score excellent reviews from previous buyers. See them via this link, or get more details and the option to buy such a stand for your iPad.

Griffin A-frame tabletop - versatile and with great reviews from owners

Macally Viewstand

Another solid built stand for the iPad is this one from Macally. Heavy and sturdy as the one above, this one is also made out of aluminum, but comes with a special scratch-proof coating.

It allows you to use the device in Portrait/Landscape , but as you can see from the pictures, you can use it also when you want to write on your iPad, providing a proper ergonomic position that will reduce fatigue in your arms. Also, I believe you can use it as a lap iPad stand too.

It comes with a list price of $59.99, but can be found online for around 40 bucks, with Free Shipping included. More pictures, reviews and the option to buy one via this link.

Macally ViewStand for iPod - sturdy and solid aluminum stand

Twelve South BookArc for iPad

The BookArc si a different type of stand than the ones above. It’s made out of a lump of aluminum and has an insert in the middle, padded with silicone, where you just snug you iPad. Being elevated in the middle means that you’ll have access to all the ports.

You might wonder if the snug is fit enough? It actually is, and you can even use the iPad placed inside a case (a not so thick one though). Of course, It might be difficult to adjust the viewing angles to the exact desired position, but adjustments are possible nonetheless.

I particularly like the looks and design of this stand; just see how nice it goes with the Apple wireless keyboard on your desk. Plus, it’s a lot more sleek and compact than the ones above.

That doesn’t make it cheap though: you can find it online for $39.99 . More details via this link. But being made by Twelve South and considering how appreciated their Apple stands and accessories are (and for good reason), I wouldn’t mind paying a little bit extra just to get this one.

Twelve South BookArc for iPad - great design and ergonomics

elago P2 Stand

This stand is also a compact and sleek looking one. You can rest you iPad on it with or without a case, can use it in landscape/portrait modes and you’ll easily have access to all ports. And don’t worry if it looks flimsy from the pictures, it’s actually pretty stable iPad stand and your gadget won’t fall back from it.

It does have a problem though: you can’t adjust viewing angle in any way, and that will bother some of you. Besides that, it’s a stand you should consider, especially since it comes in two color options (silver and black) and it’s decently priced at $29.99 (with Free Delivery included). More details via this link.

Elago P2 Stand - sleek and affordable aluminum rest

Element Case Joule

Last but for sure not least in this list of recommended aluminum stand for the Apple iPad is the Element Case Joule. Built from a piece of solid aluminum, this stand emphasizes on design. See the picture below fro details.

The iPad snugs in the special compartment like on one of the other cases above, compartment padded with velvet for a firm scratch-proof grip. The magnetic tilt foot on the back makes sure you iPad won’t roll over and also allows adjustments so you can easily get the right viewing angle for your needs.

All in all, the Element Case Joule is a fancy stand. You can make it even fancier, as the producer allows custom coatings (to the 3 default available options) and laser engravings. All these do come pricey though, as the Joule sells for $129 (price before taxes and without shipping). Way too expensive for my budget, but if money are not a problem and want a stand that looks astonishing, does its job perfectly and is extravagant, this is right now your top option. More details available via this link.

Element Case Joule - extravagant, but expensive

All in all, you can see that there are quite a couple of good options for iPad aluminum stands. They are mainly meant for desk-usage, but some can even be used as lap stands. And the even better part is most of these stands can also be paired with other tablets, not just Apple’s iPad. None are meant for the car though, so if you’re looking for one of those, let me know and I’ll see if I can find anything suitable (did not have the chance to play with such iPad accessories till now). also, see this post for more options of cool iPad stands and accessories.

Now that’s about it, hopefully this list helped you. As you can see, its not a top, all the stands in here are very good and worth buying, it will be just up to your needs and taste which one to choose. They are made out of solid aluminum, so they are reliable but also more expensive than some other plastic rests you might find.  Also, be aware that prices might change in time and you should see the links for more details next for each product in order to get the latest info on them and availability. And if you have anything to add or need help, don’t hesitate to post a comment.

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Tags: Apple iPad, Apple iPad accessories, touch tablet

Last updated: November 1, 2011 | Published: August 15th, 2010 | Add the first comment!