In this review we will be taking a look at the Black “S” type “Perch” iPad desktop stand from IPEVO. In my working environment the iPad tends to lay around on the desk until it is needed, so it can often disappear under sheets of paper, and I have often thought it would be useful if there were some kind of stand that could prop it up and place the tablet within a more immediate reach. There are a number folding covers and prop-up cases that can do the job but when the Perch came along it seemed, to me at least, to be an ideal solution.

There are a few models available in the Perch range including the desktop based S model, the side-stand sofa style M type, and the larger podium styled L type. A version of the Perch is also available for the original iPad whilst the Perch is also available in Black and White.

In the box: Perch Desktop Stand for iPad

The neatly presented brown box containing the Perch feels pretty substantial thanks largely to the heavy-gauge steel base upon which the aluminium leg and plastic frame sits.

In the box you get the stand itself, which comprises the base, leg, and frame (which require assembling), together with a screw and a hex key (included inside one of the flaps at the top of the box).

For those of you who are not so keen on assembling gadgets this particular stand is quite straightforward and the included hex key means you do not have to go searching through the toolbox in the garage.

Assembly instructions are included on the box itself together with usage ideas for the stand including as a desktop workstation, in the kitchen, or from the sofa. It is a nicely considered touch which has the added benefit of removing the need for any paper based documentation within the package.

For assembly, locate the pegs on the cone shaped base of the leg and position them into the recesses in the base then secure the base and leg with the screw provided. Once the leg is attached to the base clip the frame into the leg and assembly is complete.

Once assembled the iPad can be positioned and snapped into place – although any cases, sleeves, or covers, you have on the iPad will need to be removed.

The frame is described, on the box, as being “a soft, double-injected silicon holder with custom ribbing” and it does seem to hold the iPad quite firmly and, more importantly, it releases the iPad quickly and neatly too.

There is a large V shaped cut-out at the base of the frame which, together with the side grip, makes releasing the iPad easier.

In operation: Perch Desktop Stand for iPad

Once assembled the Perch stands just over 13” tall and it feels quite solid – there is hardly any slipping around on a typical desk surface.

The iPad sits comfortably within the frame and stays in place and there are cut-outs in the frame for the various iPad buttons and connectors.

It is almost a shame the charging connector is not built-into the frame (and perhaps attached via the base) which would keep things really neat and tidy as the cable can sometimes get in the way if you regularly switch from portrait to landscape.

The dual-hinge on the stand allows for a good degree of vertical viewing angles (although there is no up/down, horizontal adjustment available – other than moving the stand) whilst the locking click when turning the frame into portrait or landscape orientation is quite satisfying and reassuring.

The frame rotates and locks into four positions (0,90,270, and 360 degrees). The stand keeps the iPad still when typing on the screen

As with other products from IPEVO the Perch comes with a one-year warranty from the date of purchase.

In summary: Perch Desktop Stand for iPad

The Perch is a practical and well considered stand for the iPad and has a well engineered feel. It feels as comfortable in the kitchen, or living room, as it does in the office and the height of the stand makes the iPad more accessible for regular use.

The Perch is currently available online for around £45. For more information head over to IPEVO: Perch Desktop Stand for iPad | Buy IPEVO Perch Desktop Stand from Amazon.