iPad stands come in all shapes and sizes. Companies often strive to make them compact while still offering multiple angles and positions. Kubxlab’s mŌna ($30) is a new take on that theme: designed to work with the second-, third-, and fourth-generation full-sized tablets, it’s a portable unit that folds down for travel, but holds the iPad in landscape, portrait, and typing angles.
From end to end, mŌna is just over seven inches long, with a egg-shaped base at one end and rubber-lined holders at the other. It’s made of white, red, or black plastic that’s lightweight without feeling cheap. When it comes time to use the stand, you simply spread the arms apart and slide the iPad into the grips—only if you’re not using a case, that is. In portrait orientation, the arms can be moved up or down for shallower or deeper angles, ranging from straight up and down to raised about 45° off the ground. The landscape position, which is arguably more important due to its use in video viewing, isn’t as strong. There’s only one angle, and because the holders extend past the edge of the iPad, it tilts down to the other side. While this doesn’t ultimately hinder the use of the stand, it is an annoyance. Finally, the tablet can be laid on top of mŌna, its bottom resting on the grips. The incline is very comfortable, and feels totally sturdy.
While it’s attractive, Kubxlab’s stand’s does best when an iPad’s placed in a less commonly used position, and then only when the iPad isn’t in a case. The fact that the landscape angle is tilted is an oddity; we’d appreciate mŌna more if it were flat, and if more angles were available. For those who are more concerned with the portrait orientation, and who don’t use a case, this stand may be an acceptable option. However, there’s a lot of competition out there at this price point, and this design misses on too many important marks to earn a recommendation.
Our Rating
Company and Price
Company: Kubxlab
Website: www.kubxlab.com
Model: mŌna iPad Stand
Price: $30
Compatible: iPad 2, iPad (3rd-Gen), iPad (4th-Gen)