Best iPad 2 stand: for an iPad that stands for itself

Let’s face it: the iPad 2 is a great mobile device (that’s why it has more appeal than laptops for some consumers), but without the best iPad 2 stand is often hard to use, as most of the time you use your iPad 2 lying on a sofa or at a desk, and it becomes evident you need something to make it stand for itself, or your hands will get tired pretty soon. That something is a stand for iPad 2, one of the cheapest possible iPad 2 accessories out there, so no need to panic about adding cost to the iPad 2.

So it’s pretty clear what this post will be about: a personal selection of best iPad 2 stands. And because I’ve received complaints that some of the product I present in the All Touch Tablet featured posts are too expensive I’ll be showcasing more products in a lower price bracket, and less expensive premium stands for iPad 2 and the original iPad.

Hint before you buy

If you already have the 1st gen iPad and purchased a case or stand for it, try and check compatibility with the new iPad 2. In case you haven’t got the upgraded iPad yet so you can’t check out compatibility browse my list of best iPad cases and iPad stands for the original model, as I’ve listed which models I know for sure to be compatible with both iPads. Also you might want to check out my list of best cases for iPad 2, as some models double as iPad stands too. Sure there’s the option of getting a normal iPad 2 case with stand functionality, but that’s not going to be cheap (especially if you want a good one). But let’s finish with the chit-chat and jump to the list of best iPad 2 stand models.

Best iPad 1 stands list – (contains models compatible with the second gen iPad)

Arkon Portable Fold-Up Stand – $11.99

If you’re really on a budget it’s hard to find anything cheaper than the Arkon iPad 2 stand, which makes it one of the best stands for iPad 2 (that’s also compatible with other tablets too), made from plastic, but with a lot of good things to say about it that will make you think twice before looking elsewhere. First, you can’t beat the lightweight plastic that makes the Arkon stand easy to transport. Then there are the multiple adjustment angles, non skid base and the fact it works with most today’s tablets with a case/skin fitted to them or not. That’s why I’ve put the Arkon Fold-Up stand first.

Arkon portable Fold up stand

Belkin Flip Blade – $14.99

Belkin is a traditional Apple accessory manufacturer, and they know what they’re doing, usually. In the case of the Flip Blade there’s one thing I don’t like: there’s only one adjustment angle, so it’s not really adjustable by my standards. Anyway, the strengths of Belkin Flip Blade iPad 2 stand is the fact it closes down into a very slim and compact shape that’s easy to carry around (it’s also lightweight). With a push of a button the stand opens up into what it seems to be a 50-60 degrees angle. Fortunately for Belkin, the Flip Blade can accept other tablets too and works in both portrait and landscape modes.

Belkin Flip Blade

Griffin A-Frame TabletTop – 27.88$

This is an older acquaintance of ours made from quality aluminum with plenty of space for the iPad, iPad 2 and other tablets thanks to a generous non-slip rubber cradle at the base that also protects the case from scratching. As with most stands for iPad 2 you only get two angles of inclination, one suitable for typing and one for reading/watching movies. That’s a good thing in my experience, as the tablet stays locked firmly in place in those two angles. Having many intermediate adjustment angles is a trade off in terms of stability (the iPad 2 moves back and forth when you touch the screen), so this might be the iPad 2 stand for you, if you can live with the limitations.

Griffin A-frame for Ipad

Twelve South Compass – $49.99

This is absolutely one of the best looking iPad 2 stands, featuring a silver finish and being made from stainless steel, the Twelve South Compass looks like it came from your geometry kit at school. Folded flat is measures 7-inches long by 1-inch wide, so you have no excuse not taking it with you everywhere to show your fine taste in modern looking gadgetry. This stand for iPad 2 is compatible with the Apple Smart Cover and works in both portrait and landscape modes. Twelve South Compass has two viewing angles: 60 and 15 degrees and can accommodate other tablets too, not just the iPad and iPad2. It’s not the cheapest stand but you do get what you pay for.

Twelve South Compass

Thought Out Stabile – Black $59.99, Silver – $69.99

This is the kind of iPad 2 stand to get if you’re looking for a desktop monitor like experience with your tablet. At 4lbs is not portable by any means, but it won’t fall from your desk either, that’s for sure. Thought Out Stabile goes directly for the Gold medal, with an artistic shape and only one proven 55° viewing angle in portrait or landscape. To help keep the ‘beast’ on your desk there are four holding pads made from Santoprene and four non-skid black polyurethane feet. Cable management is possible thanks to the split holding feet. Don’t know why the Silver version costs more than the Black one, so I would go for Black. It’s not the best iPad 2 stand as it comes with lots of limitations, but for some specific tasks is the one to get.

Thought Out Stabile

Skadoosh, the Professional iPad 2 stand – $74.99

If you want a complicated looking stand, one with an industrial modern look, then you have to get the Skadoosh. It’s made from aluminum, rubber, nuts, bolts and a few hinges that can be adjusted to nearly a dozen angles and locks into place too, perfect for FaceTime chats. A low pivot point allows you to set up a low inclination angle just perfect for typing (if you enjoy virtual keyboards, of course). It’s also compatible with the first gen iPad and similar tablets as thickness is concerned. It’s a little bit expensive, but is just good to prove your point and is probably the best iPad 2 stand out there.

Skadoosh professional stand

Final words

With so many accessories for iPad 2 and old models that are compatible with the new tablet it’s hard to make a comprehensive list of the best iPad 2 stands. That’s why I’ve resumed myself on mentioning the models I like most. Feel free to tell us your own favorite stand for iPad 2 in the comments below. I won’t judge!