Whilst the pandemic made working from home more traditional, not everyone has the space nor privilege for a devoted workplace with external monitor/s, a desktop PC system and standalone keyboard and trackpad.
The truth is that lots of people are still working from laptops on dining-room tables, which isn’t precisely good for posture (simply think about those cricks in your neck!). This circumstance has actually motivated Logitech’s brand-new product: The Casa Pop-Up Desk, now offered in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
This multifunctional product looks like a normal book when closed, however houses a couple of surprises that will change your less-than-ideal work from house set-up into a more ergonomic experience … in theory. How does it work in practice?
Design and construct
Three colour choices
Houses a keyboard, trackpad and a compartment for cables/stationery
Weighs 1.2 kg (2.6 pounds).
Logitech products are almost always premium, and the Casa Pop-Up Desk is no different.
When closed, the Casa looks like a large notebook. It’s available in three color choices: Classic Chic (deep grey and green), Bohemian Blush (pink) and Nordic Calm (off white)– I checked the latter.
That indicates the elastic silicone strap keeping the ‘book’ protected is lilac, but this will differ depending on the design you select. The case features a fabric design that’s wipeable, though mine did get a small stain that wasn’t entirely removed with a wet fabric.
When opened, the front cover expands out, then folds in on itself to produce a stand– there are 2 extending parts for your laptop computer to nestle into, and they are safe and strong. According to Logitech, the stand supports laptops from 10- to 17-inches, and can hold devices weighing as much as 7.5 kg (16.5 pounds).
The bottom of the Casa has 3 compartments, housing a keyboard (the Casa Keys), trackpad (the Casa Touch) and an area for the charging cable– however you might quickly store pens or other small products in the latter. The keyboard is smaller than a standard one, but not so compact that you’ll feel confined when typing.
It features a variety of convenient faster way buttons, including a dictation button, a screenshot button and even an emoji button for utilizing in messaging apps. The secrets aren’t backlit, so you’ll need a decent external light source while typing.
The Casa weighs 1.2 kg (2.6 pounds), which is a comparable to some slim laptop computers. Whilst Logitech hasn’t recommended this as a travel item, among the most natural use cases would be on a train or at a coffee bar. Regretfully, the unwieldy build means that your bag will be significant to carry around.
It looks sophisticated, it’s easy to use and has an exceptional battery life.
Functions and usability.
Links via Bluetooth.
Works with Windows, macOS and ChromeOS.
Utilizes Logi Options+ app.
The Casa Keys and Casa Touch don’t require a dongle, simply connecting by means of Bluetooth. The Touch can quickly change between as much as 3 various gadgets.
While the Casa Pop-Up Desk is technically suitable with all laptop computers from 10-17 inches, Logitech specifically recommends Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and iPadOS. The latter raises the prospect of utilizing the iPad or another tablet, though it’s not precisely developed for this use.
If you want additional customisation over your devices, then you’ll require to download the complimentary Logi Options+ app– it’s only available on Windows (10 or later on) and Mac (macOS 11 or later on). Besides looking at the battery lives of your gadgets, you can likewise remap buttons, with a wide array of commands to pick from. You can likewise alter the touch and tap controls on the trackpad and alter the cursor speed.
The Casa Keys is peaceful to use, and I discovered extremely little lag when typing on my laptop computer. I had small issues with highlighting text in WordPress with the Casa Touch, but it worked just fine in all other applications, with the gadget reacting to fast swipes and faster ways.
Battery life.
When it pertains to the battery life, you need not fret. The keyboard can last up to 5 months on a single charge, whilst the trackpad can quit to 3 weeks of use.
These quotes are based on around a full working day (8 hours) worth of usage. Throughout my short stint of testing, I have not made much of a damage in the battery lives of either device.
Charging is via the USB-C ports on each device, and a cable is consisted of in the box. Whilst I haven’t time to run this device to flat, Logitech declares that a one-minute charge will offer you a full day’s usage on the Keys, as will a 3-minute charge on the Touch.
Price and availability.
The Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk costs ₤ 179 and is available either directly from Logitech or John Lewis. At the time of composing, this product isn’t available in the US– simply the UK, Australia and New Zealand.
There is nothing on the market that can straight compete with this product, however regardless, nearly ₤ 180 is not precisely cheap. I ‘d only think about the Casa if there is currently no area for a monitor in your home, and you’re looking for an all-in-one option that will assist provide you better posture.
If the Casa Pop-Up Desk runs out your rate variety, then take a look at our charts of the best laptop computer stands, keyboards, and mice.
Verdict.
There is no rejecting that Logitech has actually created something totally special with the Casa Pop-Up Desk. It looks advanced, is simple to use and has excellent battery life. The store construct and deceiving book style also make it a fantastic ornamental piece for around the home.
Whilst it’s generally a solution for people working from laptop computers without a devoted screen or desk, a lighter build would likewise allow it to be an useful tool for working when travelling or out and about in public spaces. Plus, it does not come inexpensive.
Specs.
Colours: Nordic Calm, Bohemian Blush and Classic Chic.
Total weight: 1.2 kg.
Battery life: 5 months (Casa Keys), 3 weeks (Casa Touch).
Casa Book measurements: 29/160 x 230 x 290mm (close/opened as laptop stand).
Casa Keys dimensions: 17 x 112 x 280 mm.
Casa Touch dimensions: 14 x 88 x 125 mm.
