tbh I've spent way too many hours typing on tray tables to count. Last year I was in your spot with a deadline and tried the Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case with Trackpad for iPad Air 11-inch (M2). It is way sturdier than the Slim Folio you mentioned. The keys actually have travel and click, unlike those fabric-covered ones that feel like pressing on a sponge. Plus, it lets you detach the keyboard if you just want to watch a movie after the report is done. I also messed around with the Zagg Pro Keys Wireless Keyboard and Detachable Case which is cheaper and tactile, but the trackpad on the Logitech is what makes it feel like a real laptop. It’s definitely within your budget. Just make sure you get the right version for your model since the connectors vary. The backlighting is a lifesaver when the cabin lights go down mid-flight too.

Saw this earlier but just now responding. Honestly, I'm a total safety-first person when it comes to travel gear because I cant stand the idea of a keyboard dying mid-flight. Quick question though... what tablet model are you actually using? The weight distribution matters a ton for those flimsy tray tables. I've been very satisfied with these two for long-haul work:

• ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard Case for iPad Pro 11-inch and iPad Air 5 : This works well because the magnets are super strong. The tablet never feels like it's gonna tip over when the person in front reclines. Typing feels crisp, not mushy.
• Arteck iPad Keyboard Case with Trackpad and Backlit keys for iPad 10.9-inch : A bit basic but very reliable. No connection drops in my experience and it feels solid for the price. Both feel sturdy without making your bag feel like a literal brick.

@Reply #1 - good point! honestly i have been through the ringer with tablet setups over the years. I used to be that person who just grabbed whatever was at the tech store, but I learned my lesson the hard way on a bumpy red-eye to Chicago. I was trying to finish a massive report and my cheap board kept lagging... basically made me want to throw the whole thing out the window. In my experience, you really have to focus on the stability of the hinge and the base. On a plane, those tray tables are tiny and they bounce whenever there is even a tiny bit of turbulence. I tried the Logitech Slim Folio for iPad a while back and while it was okay for quick notes, the keys felt way too soft for a 5-hour typing marathon. My fingers actually cramped up because there was zero tactile feedback. It just felt mushy. A few technical bits I've learned the hard way:

• Physical connectors are way more reliable than Bluetooth because they dont die or lag mid-flight.
• Look for a case with a wide footprint so it doesnt tip over when the person in front of you reclines their seat suddenly.
• Key travel is king... anything less than 1mm feels like typing on a piece of glass. I eventually moved to a setup like the Brydge 11.0 Pro+ Keyboard with Trackpad because it has a much more rigid frame. I am super paranoid about the tablet getting crushed in my carry-on or bending. It isnt the lightest, but it gives that legit laptop feel you're looking for without the Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro 11-inch price tag. Just make sure whatever you get has a solid magnetic grip so it doesnt slide around while you're working.