Being comfortable when I’m working is one of the most important things I can think of when preparing to spend some time on a project. When it comes to using a computer for any significant length of time, I want a comfortable chair, and a comfortable (and safe) spot to set my laptop, and I want to know that I’m not going to feel like my bones are 200 years old after typing what seems like the longest review I’ve ever written. Enter Bluelounge’s new Kickflip.
Bluelounge is known for creating products that offer simplicity and functionality in a delightfully minimal form. The Kickflip ($17.95 for 13″ model, $19.95 for 15″ model at Bluelounge.com) holds true to their ideals, creating a simple, portable, and minimal way to prop your MacBook Pro/MacBook Air at a nice, comfortable angle for typing.
The Kickflip attaches to the back edge of the bottom of your MacBook (just ahead of the screen hinge), and hinges in the middle to flip down to offer a (roughly) 1-inch lift to the back of your computer. The idea is to offer a gentle incline to the keyboard to make typing more comfortable, and in the past week, I have to say, it has been nice.
More importantly to me, though, is the added ventilation and heat reduction. By propping up the back of the computer, there is increase air flow allowed under the main body, reducing processor and battery temperature (especially while charging or doing graphic intensive work). In the past, I’ve used various books or objects to prop up the back on my machine when working heavily to keep things cool, and the Kickflip offer the same thing in a much more visually appealing package.
Unfortunately, the Kickflip isn’t without a flaw or two. While Apple has worked extremely hard on creating thinner and thinner machines, the KickFlip does add nearly 1/4” to the profile of my MacBook Pro (at the back) when the stand is folded shut. If you’re one to use a fitted sleeve for your MacBook, this could cause it to catch as you take it out or put it away.
I also found the hinge to be a little flimsy feeling, especially when closed. Because of this, I have (more than once) caught it on the edge of my laptop pocket of my bag. While open, the hinge does have some give, so typing feels is a little less stiff, this is less bothersome than when the hinge is shut and (at least a little) wiggly.
Bluelounge is very good at making products that are aesthetically pleasing, and offer simple solutions to minor problems we may not have even thought about, and the Kickflip is another one of those products. While the added thickness and slightly flimsy hinge are slightly bothersome to me, most users would likely find this to be a very useful addition to their MacBook Pro or MacBook Air. There are many other rigs out there that offer a similar function for various computers, but none are as simple or minimal as the Kickflip, and that’s something any Apple-lover can appreciate.
Rating: 3.5/5.0[rating:3.5]
If you’re looking for a simple way to improve airflow under your MacBook, or prefer typing on an incline, as opposed to flat, the Kickflip is a geniously designed addition to your MacBook, and certainly worth checking out.
