iPad Mini mounts roundup
One of the best things about the iPad Mini is (obviously) its size. It’s not just that smaller is better–the Mini strikes the right balance of case size and screen size, especially for pilots. In particular, this is the first iPad that is small enough to mount on a yoke or suction cup without blocking a good chunk of the instrument panel. That makes it ideal for moving map displays, digital charts and in-flight weather.
The spring-loaded iPad Mini mount from RAM is a great option for the yoke.
In this article, we’ll review some of the most popular options for mounting the Mini. Each of the ones we’ll mention is made by RAM Mounts, who we think are the leaders in mounting technology. Their systems are rugged and durable, but almost infinitely adjustable.
All RAM mounting systems consist of three main parts:
- Base: the piece that attaches to the airplane (suction cup, yoke clamp, etc.)
- Arm: the piece that connects the ball on the base to the ball on the cradle
- Cradle: the piece that holds your iPad, and the products we’ll discuss below
Each of the cradles below is available with a variety of bases, so you could have a suction cup or yoke mount version of any of these. For tips on the best place to mount your iPad, read this article we wrote last year. Note that you can also switch between RAM Mounts quickly–if you have an older portable GPS mounting system from RAM, you would only need to buy a new cradle, for example.
Now let’s look at some cradle options.
Custom-fit mounts
For the smallest possible mount, RAM offers a custom-fit cradle that holds the iPad Mini tightly. RAM calls it the EZ-ROLL’R, and that’s because a clamp at the top of the cradle rolls over the iPad frame to lock it in place. It’s a rock-solid cradle, but it does not work with a case or smart cover, so you’ll have to remove your iPad from those first. These mounts are in stock and shipping.
Spring-loaded mounts
These handy mounts are more flexible, and allow you to leave your iPad in a case when you mount it. These can also accommodate other 7″ tablets, like the Nexus 7. For these reasons, this is actually our preferred cradle. The spring-loaded top clamp expands from 7.3″ to 9.62″, and accommodates tablets up to 1.06″ thick (including case). Power buttons and charging connections remain uncovered for use in flight. These mounts are in stock and shipping.
The X-grip mount is a quick release option for the iPad Mini.
X-Grip mounts
These unique mounts are similar to spring-loaded mounts, but offer some quick-release features. Specially designed rubber pegs hold the tablet tight, and we haven’t seen turbulence affect this mount at all. To release, just squeeze two of the pegs together and the iPad will be released–it’s a refreshingly simple system. These mounts will accept iPads with a case on.
Kneeboards
Not everyone likes to mount his iPad in the cockpit; some pilots are kneeboard people. For those folks, Sporty’s is also taking pre-orders for an iPad Mini Kneeboard. This bi-fold design is similar to the full size iPad kneeboard that has been one of the most popular tablet accessories for the past few years. It includes a leg strap, adjustable angle iPad stand, mesh pockets and small notepad alongside the iPad Mini.
Finally, while it’s not a mount, the iPad Mini Screen Protector is now shipping. This easy-to-install screen cover leaves no bubbles, and does not require messy glues or adhesives. It’s by far the most satisfying screen cover we’ve used, and a nice addition to any iPad Mini accessory kit.
I have a mini iPad running WingXPro. I also have a WxWorx box and antenna mounted in my plane, previously used with an Anywhere Map GPS with Wx. My question. Is there some way to get the wx info (metars and radar) to display on the iPad, from the WxWorx box?
You can use that WxWorx box with your iPad. You just need to add the Baron MobileLink to it: http://www.baronservices.com/aviation/inflight/mobilelink
Rob, I’m also an Anywhere Map user and am wondering why did you stop using Anywhere Map and switch to WingXPro?
I recently received my RAM E Z Roller Cradle but haven’t had the opportunity to use it. According to RAM the X -grip, is not designed for high vibration environments. This was a deciding factor for me, I waited for the EZ Roller.
This is a little late, however I got rid of the Anywhere Quadra after sending it back to the factory for the fifth time. In my experience, unreliable in the air, hard to read and updating via Wi-fi was an all night affair. Mini with Baron works well, although I had to install a 12v charge cord — battery only good for about 5hrs.
I use an iPad mini and the Ram suction cup mount works on King Air and Bonanza windows well. There is a small concern (not Ram)making a mount that attaches to the yoke using straps (with Velcro). It then has a mount for a mini. They have a website, but I lost it. Anyone know what the website is or what they call the mount?