Kudo Solar Case with HDMI for iPad2 / iPad3 - Grey

As an original participant through the Kickstart program, I have used both the original LilyPad and the subsequent Kudo Pad. Because I received a copy before they went public, I have had mine for several months. My original color was this light gray, although I switched to the light blue for the second generation. Both are nice colors, but the gray is more neutral.

Without the case, my normal usage on my heavily used iPad is only about 5 hours. As the pastor of three churches, my iPad IS my office, and I very much need it constantly. Prior to having the Kudo, I would have to have my iPad on a charger for much of the day.

My usage with the Kudo case varies, based on what I am doing, but it is always a minimum of 2 1/2 days. This includes about an hour of movie watching per day, and a significant number of hours doing research on the Internet, plus using Bluetooth accessories, and a few games of scrabble each day.

However, on a recent trip, I strictly used my iPad for audiobooks, about 12 hours per day. Since I didn't have WIFI, I had it on airplane mode. During the trip, it sat on the seat next to me, in the sunshine. After 2 1/2 days of travel, both iPad and case were still at 100%.

The good:

The case totally encloses the iPad. I have actually accidentally dropped my iPad on more than one occasion, and was very grateful for the case. It is a piece of armor!

The length of time it stays charged, especially when I have loads of sunshine

The fact that it charges my iPad while I use it

Very good magnetic cover works well

Made with recycled materials

If I have a cord along, I can use it to charge my iPhone.

The not so good

It is not an easy stand to deal with. OK for widescreen, not so good for reading

A bit heavy it doubles the weight of the iPad

After a few months of use, one of the legs broke

When the cover is closed, and you are using the iPad, it does not charge (or anytime it is locked)

So why do I give it five stars? Because I have found nothing better. It protects and charges my iPad without wires, and I never, ever, have to worry about it.

Every Sunday morning, I put my iPad into the case and travel to three churches keeping all of my notes in front of me. During this time I drive 80 miles and conduct services at three churches. At the end of that time my case is down by 25% and my iPad is at 100%.

While I enjoy my 5700mAh External Battery Power Bank 360 Degrees Rotating Stand Case Holder for NEW iPad, iPad 2 3G Tablet, and Ipad 3 Purple, the mere fact that it requires a cord to connect the battery in the cover to the iPad makes it a bit more difficult. Still, it is a cheaper alternative if the cord isn't an issue, and it doubles the life of my iPad. I use it at home on days when my usage is lighter, or when I want a classier look, since the Kudo is pretty basic.