The iPad remains the market leader in tablet technology, so much so that hardly anyone can name another tablet. There’s the Samsung Galaxy Tab, but that’s about it. iPads are popular because they’re multifunctional and have amazing processing power for something so small. They’re fantastic on their own but become unstoppable when paired with these four useful gadgets. 

Some sort of keyboard

You can’t have an iPad without a keyboard. It feels like you’re wasting part of the device’s functionality as it’s good enough to be your daily laptop. Apple sells a Magic Keyboard for a crazy amount of money, and you can buy dupes for a lot less. These are keyboards that double up as cases, so you may like them. 

Alternatively, you can connect a Bluetooth keyboard to your iPad for more comfort. This goes hard when you pair it with the second gadget on this list, as well as a Bluetooth mouse. It makes your iPad feel like a mini computer – you can even hook it up to a gaming keyboard if you have enough space. 

A mount or iPad holder

iPad screens are amazing, though they often force you to look down a lot. This won’t do if you’re using it to work or play games for hours. Therefore, you should invest in a couple of iPad holders, stands, or mounts. Gooseneck mounts are great to attach to your desk and raise the screen to eye level. Combine with your keyboard for the ultimate work-from-home experience. 

It’s also worth getting an iPad holder for car use to put on your dash as an infotainment screen or provide people in the back with something to watch while you drive. You really can’t have too many holders or mounts; get one for every situation! 

The Apple Pencil or similar alternatives

If you use your iPad to draw or take notes, then you need the Apple Pencil. It’s pretty expensive, but it’s worth it for graphic designers, artists, or anyone else who likes writing with a pen. 

Even if you desperately need the Apple Pencil, we appreciate that it might be out of your budget. In this case, take a look at these great alternatives for much lower prices. Some sort of pencil/stylus turns your iPad into a sketchpad and lets you get more out of it. 

Portable battery packs

Using many Bluetooth gadgets with an iPad has a downside: it drains the battery faster. Modern iPads can last for hours before running out of charge, but a portable battery pack will prevent any disasters. 

You get portable power to your iPad whenever you need it. This is perfect if you’re working in coffee shops or going on a long commute. You don’t rely on being near power outlets and can relax with the knowledge that your iPad will never run out of battery. 

There are many other iPad gadgets and tech accessories out there, but these four are the “must-have” ones. They help you get more out of your iPad to achieve its full potential.