Whilst the pandemic made working from home more traditional, not everyone has the space nor privilege for a dedicated workplace with external monitor/s, a desktop PC unit and standalone keyboard and trackpad.
The reality is that many individuals are still working from laptop computers on dining room tables, which isn’t exactly great for posture (simply think of those cricks in your neck!). This scenario has actually inspired Logitech’s brand-new item: The Casa Pop-Up Desk, now offered in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
This multifunctional item appears like a common book when closed, but houses a few surprises that will change your less-than-ideal work from home set-up into a more ergonomic experience … in theory. How does it work in practice?
When closed, the Casa appears like a big note pad. It’s offered in 3 color options: Classic Chic (deep grey and green), Bohemian Blush (pink) and Nordic Calm (off white)– I checked the latter.
That suggests the elastic silicone strap keeping the ‘book’ safe and secure is lilac, however this will differ depending upon the model you pick. The case features a fabric design that’s wipeable, though mine did get a small stain that wasn’t completely gotten rid of with a damp fabric.
When opened, the front cover broadens out, then folds in on itself to create a stand– there are two protruding parts for your laptop to nestle into, and they are safe and sturdy. According to Logitech, the stand supports laptops from 10- to 17-inches, and can hold gadgets weighing approximately 7.5 kg (16.5 pounds).
The bottom of the Casa has three compartments, real estate a keyboard (the Casa Keys), trackpad (the Casa Touch) and an area for the charging cable– but you might easily save pens or other small items in the latter. The keyboard is smaller sized than a standard one, but not so compact that you’ll feel confined when typing.
It includes a range of handy shortcut buttons, consisting of a dictation button, a screenshot button and even an emoji button for using in messaging apps. However, the secrets aren’t backlit, so you’ll require a decent external light source while typing.
The Casa weighs 1.2 kg (2.6 pounds), which is a similar to some slim laptops. Whilst Logitech hasn’t advised this as a travel item, one of the most natural use cases would be on a train or at a cafe. Sadly, the unwieldy construct methods that your bag will be significant to bring around.
It looks advanced, it’s easy to use and has an excellent battery life
Features and functionality
Links via Bluetooth
Functions with Windows, macOS and ChromeOS
Utilizes Logi Options+ app
The Casa Keys and Casa Touch don’t require a dongle, just connecting via Bluetooth. The Touch can quickly switch in between as much as three different gadgets.
While the Casa Pop-Up Desk is technically compatible with all laptops from 10-17 inches, Logitech particularly recommends Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and iPadOS. The latter raises the possibility of using the iPad or another tablet, though it’s not exactly designed for this use.
If you desire extra customisation over your gadgets, then you’ll require to download the totally free Logi Options+ app– it’s only readily available on Windows (10 or later on) and Mac (macOS 11 or later). Besides checking on the battery lives of your devices, you can likewise remap buttons, with a wide range of commands to select 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 observed really little lag when typing on my laptop. I had minor issues with highlighting text in WordPress with the Casa Touch, however it worked simply great in all other applications, with the gadget responding to fast swipes and shortcuts.
Battery life
When it comes to the battery life, you need not worry. The keyboard can last approximately 5 months on a single charge, whilst the trackpad can give up to 3 weeks of usage.
These quotes are based upon around a full working day (eight hours) worth of usage. During my brief stint of testing, I have not made much of a dent in the battery lives of either device.
Charging is via the USB-C ports on each device, and a cable is consisted of in package. Whilst I haven’t time to run this device to flat, Logitech claims that a one-minute charge will offer you a full day’s use on the Keys, as will a 3-minute charge on the Touch.
Rate and schedule
The Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk costs ₤ 179 and is offered either straight from Logitech or John Lewis. At the time of composing, this item isn’t available in the US– just the UK, Australia and New Zealand.
There is absolutely nothing on the marketplace that can straight compete with this item, however regardless, almost ₤ 180 is not exactly cheap. I ‘d just think about the Casa if there is currently no area for a monitor in your house, and you’re trying to find an all-in-one service that will help give you much better posture.
If the Casa Pop-Up Desk runs out your cost variety, then check out our charts of the best laptop stands, keyboards, and mice.
Decision
There is no rejecting that Logitech has actually developed something totally special with the Casa Pop-Up Desk. It looks sophisticated, is easy to utilize and has outstanding battery life. The pack away build and tricking book style also make it a terrific ornamental piece for around the house.
Whilst it’s primarily an option for people working from laptops without a devoted screen or desk, a lighter build would also allow it to be a helpful tool for working when travelling or out and about in public areas. Plus, it doesn’t come low-cost.
Specifications
Colours: Nordic Calm, Bohemian Blush and Classic Chic
Overall weight: 1.2 kg.
Battery life: 5 months (Casa Keys), 3 weeks (Casa Touch).
Casa Book dimensions: 29/160 x 230 x 290mm (close/opened as laptop stand).
Casa Keys measurements: 17 x 112 x 280 mm.
Casa Touch dimensions: 14 x 88 x 125 mm.
