By Danny Winget

Tablets and larger mobile devices have changed our lives since the debut of the iPad, and we love holding those devices in our hands. We touch, create, and consume all while we have the device on our laps or hands.

Have you ever come across a situation where you couldn’t hold the iPad or tablet in your hand while doing an activity? Did you ever think, “I wish I had a stand to put this iPad on while I am [insert your favorite activity here].” If so then I think Satechi has answered your thinking out loud with a product called the R1 Arm Series.

Build quality

The Satechi R1 Arm Series Stand is constructed of an all metal design very reminiscent of the stand base on Apple’s famous iMac desktop computers. When an iPad is resting in the padded arm of the stand you automatically think, “Hmm this looks like a mini iMac.” It is very attractive in its brushed aluminum finish and the hinges are strong and well executed.

The hinges have minimal give when positioning it to various degrees and hold the iPad still even while engaging in the touch mechanics of applications. I found it easy to play a game like the new Angry Birds Space while it was on the stand; at no point did I think it was going to fall down or slip out of the cradle. The best part is that the stand folds down to a flat and very compact size so it is easy to carry in a book bag or laptop bag. Take it anywhere you want.

Users of the stand

I found the Satechi R1 stand to be very useful when watching a movie or YouTube video while multitasking. I used it in the kitchen while following a recipe to make a pesto chicken for dinner. It was perfect. I had the recipe on the left while I was cooking.

I also found the Satechi R1 particularly useful for watching Netflix while I was in the kitchen one day. Later that night I used it -- paired with a Bluetooth speaker -- to play some music while in the backyard for a cookout. People whot use the iPad paired with a Bluetooth keyboard to write in Pages or take notes will love this stand.

My wife praised the R1 when she was able to watch some of her favorite YouTube videos in the bathroom while getting ready in the morning. The R1 will go whereever there is a flat surface and a purpose. The possibilities are endless.

Recommendations

I highly recommend the Satechi R1 Arm series stand. The sturdy metal build quality and strong hinges make it easy to praise. There are two downsides. First is the price. The R1 retails for US$49.99. That is expensive for a stand. It does retail for a little less on sites like Amazon so finding a bargain on this stand would make it a must buy. There are cheaper stands out there, but considering what materials those other products are constructed of, the R1 stand has outstanding build quality.

A second downside: the base of the stand could be broader and heavier. At times I found that the stand would rock slightly in certain positions while touching the screen, especially in the 90 degree position. In no way did the stand fall or did I ever get scared that the stand would tip over, but it is noticeable.

If you can look past the semi-steep price I would highly recommend this stand. I know I will be using this stand to demonstrate future software reviews on my YouTube channel (see http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edjrferhELk). For more information or to purchase this product visit http://www.satechi.net/index.php/r1-arm-hinge-holder-stand-for-ipad-ipad-2 .

Rating: 8 out of 10