Owning both an iPad Mini and a 13-inch iPad Air (2025), I’ve found that while the Mini excels in portability, the Air, when paired with its Magic Keyboard, becomes cumbersome for tasks like watching videos or using it as a second screen – activities that comprise over half my usage. While a folio case would reduce weight, it sacrifices viewing angle flexibility and keyboard functionality. Enter the $30 Rolling Square Edge Pro Core, a game-changer for my iPad Air experience. This review explores how this accessory enhances the portability and usability of my larger iPad.
Rolling Square Edge Pro Core attached to iPad Air 2025.
A Novel Use for the Rolling Square Edge Pro Core
The Rolling Square Edge Pro Core is a magnetic metal bracket that attaches to devices using included nano-suction layers and adhesive-backed metal plates. While marketed for mounting an iPad on a MacBook lid, I found this impractical for my 13-inch iPad Air due to weight concerns. Instead, I discovered a more beneficial application.
Rolling Square Edge Pro Core
By attaching two Pro Cores to my iPad Air, I created a lightweight, adjustable kickstand. This setup allows for effortless detachment from the Magic Keyboard when needed for media consumption or use as a second display. The versatility in viewing angles surpasses a standard folio case and proves invaluable on flights or at my desk. Importantly, the Pro Core doesn’t interfere with the Magic Keyboard’s magnetic connection.
Balancing Functionality and Aesthetics
The primary drawback of the Edge Pro Core system is the requirement for permanent metal stickers on the device. While my iPad Air remains primarily within its Magic Keyboard case, minimizing visibility, applying the stickers directly to a MacBook lid results in a noticeable black mark. It’s a trade-off between function and aesthetics.
Rolling Square Edge Pro Core attached to iPad Air 2025.
Another consideration is compatibility with folio cases. The added metal plates prevent magnetic folio cases from functioning correctly. Therefore, the Edge Pro Core is best suited for Magic Keyboard users.
Expanding the Edge Pro Core Ecosystem
Beyond its core functionality, the Edge Pro Core offers expandability with accessories like Rolling Square’s wireless charger and the Edge Pro Light for improved video calls. It’s even possible to magnetically mount an iPhone to a MacBook, creating a comprehensive mobile conferencing setup. These options are available individually or bundled as the Rolling Square Edge Pro Full Kit.
Rolling Square Edge Pro Core attached to iPad Air 2025.
Conclusion: A Valuable Addition for iPad Air Users
After six weeks of use, the Edge Pro Core’s magnets have proven remarkably robust, holding angles up to 135 degrees without issue. The compact design adds minimal bulk to my travel bag. The convenience of a readily available kickstand for my 13-inch iPad Air, without the constant weight of the Magic Keyboard, has significantly improved my workflow. For those with similar needs, the $60 Edge Pro Core tablet kit (https://rollingsquare.com/products/edge%C2%AE-pro-tablet-kit) is a highly recommended enhancement.
