Top iPad 2 accessories

Apple’s iPad 2 has become one of the best-selling tablet devices around the world, but they aren’t exactly cheap. To get the most bang for your iPad 2 buck, a whole host of accessories have been made available, and while some enhance the tablet’s functionality, others protect it from dust and scratches.

Targus 3-in-1 Stylus

Although the iPad is great for quick finger-flicking, it often happens that a finger is just too thick to accurately select a small piece on the screen. Fingers also leave nasty smudge marks, but with the stylus, finger marks will be a thing of the past. The soft, durable rubber tip won’t scratch the screen, and the 3-in-1 Stylus also functions as a laser pointer and ballpoint pen for traditional note-taking.

Apple Smart Cover

One of the most popular accessories, and certainly a must-have, is Apple’s Smart Cover. The cover attaches itself to the iPad with magnets, and switches the iPad on and off when the cover is opened and closed. The hard cover will protect it from everyday use, and prevent scratches when in transit. The cover can also be folded over and used as a handy stand for reading, watching, and typing.

DODOcase

Staying with covers, the DODOcase is a novel way to protect your tablet from scratches, bumps and adds a bit of security from theft. The premise of the cover to make the iPad look like a normal hard cover book, and can also double as a stand for reading. It’s a bit ironic, seeing that the iPad and e-readers are in the process to replace real books.

Apple Digital AV Adapter

The iPad has a fairly big screen for a tablet, but with some media the screen’s size is just a bit too small. Apple’s Digital AV Adapter lets users connect their iPad to any HDTV to show off their photos, videos or any other media. It even routes digital audio to screens that support it, and a second built-in 30-pin connector lets users charge their iPad while it’s connected to the television.

HP AirPrint printer

Although not strictly an iPad exclusive accessory, the printer is a great addition to any user’s office, as the iPad can connect to the printer wirelessly, and print right away using the AirPrint software. It prints virtually anything, from photos, documents, or a webpage, and it can all be done with the touch of once button.

iPad Camera Connection

Apple’s iPad Camera Connection Kit is a must-have for budding photographers and professionals alike. It allows users to connect their digital camera to their iPad to upload photos and videos. The camera connection supports either USB or straight from the SD card, and supports standard photo formats, including JPEG and RAW, as well as SD and HD video formats, including H.264 and MPEG-4.

InvisibleSHIELD for iPad

For those that don’t have a Smart Cover, or just looking for added screen protection, InvisibleSHIELD has a great military grade patented film that fits neatly across the screen. It protects the screen from daily wear and tear, and with a lifetime warranty, users will never have to worry about their screen again.

Apple Wireless Keyboard

As mentioned before, the screen’s size is perfect for certain functions, but an occasion might arise where extra control and quick typing is needed. Well, Apple has thought about that too, and released the Wireless Keyboard. The very thin keyboard uses Bluetooth technology, so users can use it while resting on their laps.

Apple In-Ear Headphones with Remote and Mic

Last, but not the least, is Apple’s In-Ear Headphones with Remote and Mic. Listening to music while working or watching a movie on the train is great, but the sound quality will be very poor if users don’t get themselves a pair of headphones. Adjust the volume and control your music and video playback with the in-line buttons, and the mic lets users chat to friends over apps such as Skype.

Charlie Fripp – Consumer Tech editor

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