We love it when unfamiliar gear in a computer setup cropping up on social media makes us go, “what the hell is that thing?”
It happened with today’s featured setup, which is bit unusual because it centers on an iPad Pro rather than a desktop computer or laptop. But the unfamiliar item turned out to be a desk mat with a cool trick using metal pieces to tame cable clutter.
This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.
iPad Pro setup uses nifty Orbitkey desk mat to control cable clutter
Fernando Silva (@nandoprince93 on X, formerly Twitter) showcased his iPad Pro setup recently.
“The current iPad desk setup,” he wrote. “Can’t argue [that] the iPad Pro is at the very least, the best looking computer out right now.”
We asked about the unusual desk mat under the 12.9-inch iPad Pro with Smart Keyboard Folio. The mat has a sort of groove along the top with metal pieces in it.
Orbitkey Desk Mat with Magnetic Cable Holders
“@orbitkey, Silva replied. “It has a magnetic strip along the top and those metal pieces attach to it and act as cable organizers. Genius.”
Turns out what I called a groove at the top of the desk mat Orbitkey calls a toolbar. The Australia-based company said its Desk Mat “creates visual structure in your work area.”
More importantly, “the Magnetic Cable Holder can be moved anywhere along the toolbar to keep your cable in place and always within reach. No more tangles or cables falling off the table!”
And the desk mat has some other tricks up its sleeve, too, so to speak, coming back to the “visual structure.” Because, basically, it’s a sleeve. You can peel up the top layer and store loose paper under it. And that toolbar where the magnetic cable holders go also features a space for stationary and small accessories.
Other desk mats with cable management features
As surprising as it was to spot in a photograph on X (formerly Twitter), Orbitkey’s Desk Mat isn’t the only product of its kind out there. Here are some other desk mats/pads with cable management features to explore:
- Function101 Desk Mat Pro + Magnetic Cable Management System (you can read more about this one here)
- Spigen Desk Pad with Cable Management Magnets
- Nordik Leather Desk Mat Cable Organizer (though this one isn’t magnetic, it’s just the classic loop or opening in the leather for cables to pass through)
Shop these items now:
Photo: Orbitkey
Computer:
External monitor:
Input devices:
Furniture:
Accessories:
If you would like to see your setup featured on Cult of Mac, send some high-res pictures to info+setups@cultofmac.com. Please provide a detailed list of your equipment. Tell us what you like or dislike about your setup, and fill us in on any special touches, challenges and plans for new additions.
Made from premium vegan leather and recycled PET felt, this desk pad includes document hideaway space and a toolbar with magnetic cable holder. Comes in black or stone colors in two sizes.
