10 Best Pilot Kneeboards for Cockpit Essential Supplies

Last updated June 2026

Quick answer: The best pilot kneeboard for most aviators is the Flight Outfitters iDeck ($79.95), a dual-device board that holds a tablet and paper. For full-size iPad Pro users, the MyGoFlight iPad Pro 12.9 Folio C ($194) is the premium pick. Best budget standard board: the aluminum ASA VFR Kneeboard ($20.99).

With the rapid advancement of technology in the aviation industry, a pilot kneeboard is one of the cockpit essentials that every pilot from a first-time student to a seasoned ATP needs for each flight.

At its most basic, a kneeboard is an organizational system that straps onto your thigh and serves as a readily accessible and highly visible place to organize charts, documents, paperwork and digital devices. Styles vary and your choice of kneeboard will depend on what tools you will be using most in your cockpit.

Today we'll go over the types of kneeboards on the market and help you narrow down your options so you can feel confident in choosing the best fit for you.

Best Pilot Kneeboards at a Glance

Styles of Pilot Kneeboards

There are two main categories of kneeboards to choose from: standard kneeboards and those that are designed to hold iPads or tablets of various sizes.

Standard Kneeboards

A standard kneeboard is a good basic choice if you are a pilot who mainly flies using charts and doesn't use an electronic flight bag (EFB). This type of kneeboard usually consists of a rigid clipboard type of device in a fabric sleeve which is secured around your thigh with a Velcro strap. More deluxe models have extra pockets and flaps for storage.

Kneeboards for Electronic Devices

The modern cockpit includes more electronics than ever. To accommodate and integrate these devices, manufacturers now design kneeboards that are made to hold your iPad, tablet, or even your phone. Some of these kneeboards are designed specifically for certain devices while others are adjustable and work with any device within a given size range.

10 Best Pilot Kneeboards

1. MyGoFlight iPad Pro 12.9 Folio C – $194.00

You can trust the iPad Pro 12.9" Premium Leather Rotating Folio Kneeboard when you take to the sky. This rugged rotating aviation kneeboard and lapboard is crafted with high-quality leather and keeps your 12-13" tablets securely in place. Perfect for student pilots and professional pilots, the four adjustable clips attach to a rotating cradle so your iPad/Tablet can be charged, synced, and controlled in the folio without ever having to leave the cockpit. Bring this folio along for peace of mind wherever you go.

2. ASA VFR Kneeboard – $20.99

These durable, attractive kneeboards from ASA make cockpit organization a snap. Fabricated from brushed aluminum for impressive strength, these attractive boards feature must-know VFR information silkscreened directly onto the boards. Each kneeboard comes with a 1½" wide elastic leg band with Velcro closure that provides a secure, comfortable fit to any size leg. Its 4¾" metal clip securely fastens papers, charts, and other must-have documents for easy, front-and-center viewing. Also includes a pen/pencil holder. Each kneeboard measures 6½" x 9½". A proven, affordable organizational tool that pilots at all levels will love.

3. Battleboard Kneeboard - Tech Edition (V2) – $79.99

Designed specifically for the modern aviator, the Battleboard Kneeboard Tech Edition (now in its V2 design) is a must-have tool for anyone using an iPad or tablet during flights. Meticulously crafted and expertly tailored, this kneeboard allows for easy access to all buttons, cameras, and charging points thanks to its precise cutouts and ports. Plus, with an integrated kickstand offering multiple viewing angles, you can find the perfect position for optimal visibility.

4. ASA VFR Tri-Fold Kneeboard – $39.99

You don't need your IFR rating to benefit from a tri-fold style basic kneeboard. The ASA makes a VFR tri-fold model as well. It has the same organization-friendly design with fabric pockets on the left panel and a clear plastic pouch on the right. The center kneeboard portion has a silkscreen printed clipboard with all your most relevant VFR info in an easy-to-reference cheat sheet format.

5. Flyboys Reversible Kneeboard with Clipboard – $44.99

Looking for a low-profile, streamlined kneeboard that won't get in your way? Lucky for you, an F-16 pilot wanted the same thing, so he designed his own kneeboard. This style is narrower than most and fits close to your leg. A row of removable eyelets along the side of the board offer you a way to secure your checklists and in-flight guides.

All the lefties out there know what a struggle it is dealing with gear that is built by and for those who are right handed. Well, prepare to be delighted, because this kneeboard is reversible. That's right, the clipboard is removable and can be fitted on either side, so no matter how you want to wear your kneeboard, you can adjust it to the right fit. (Note: this board sells out fast and may be on backorder; check the product page for current availability.)

6. Lift Aviation Navigator T-1 (iPad Mini) – $60.00

Lift Aviation's performance in-flight knee board is made from high strength ballistic nylon that includes a FIDLOCK™ buckle system. Features a removable EVA leg pad and an integrated support system for digital tablets up to the size of an iPad mini.

7. Lift Aviation Navigator L-1 (Leather) – $90.00

Lift Aviation's performance in-flight kneeboard is made from premium grade leather and includes a FIDLOCK™ buckle system. Features a removable EVA leg pad and an integrated support system for digital tablets up to the size of an iPad mini.

8. Flight Outfitters iDeck Kneeboard – $79.95

Pilots deserve a kneeboard that adapts to their needs, not the other way around. That's why Flight Outfitters is proud to introduce the iDeck Kneeboard, the culmination of generations of pilot feedback and our commitment to continuous improvement. This dual-device board carries a tablet and paper at the same time, which is why it is our pick for the best all-around kneeboard for most pilots.

The iDeck Kneeboard represents the fifth iteration of our popular kneeboard design. Flight Outfitters has taken everything pilots loved about previous versions and combined it with the features you requested most. Available in small or large sizes.

9. MyGoFlight Premium Leather iPad Rotating Folio Kneeboard – $174.00

Could you see yourself using both the standard and the digital device versions of the kneeboard? Are you torn between them and unsure which one to get? If you plan to use your kneeboard with a full-size iPad or other 9"-11" tablet, you're in luck. You don't have to choose.

MyGoFlight has designed a well-thought-out leather rotating folio that marries the best qualities of both the standard and the digital device styles. Like standard kneeboards, the MyGoFlight Folio C comes with a clipboard which is printed with commonly referenced VFR flight information. However, unlike standard models, the clipboard can be repositioned to the inside cover and used with the built-in stand to convert the kneeboard into a lap desk for your iPad.

The rotating cradle allows you to adjust the viewing angle in 5 degree increments so you can find just the perfect setting. The Folio C is compatible with all full-size iPads as well as 9"-11" tablets. (Pilots flying with an iPad Mini can choose the matching MyGoFlight iPad Mini Folio C at $174.00 instead.)

10. MyClip Multi Leg Strap for iPad and Tablets – $34.95

Despite all the most elaborate of devices, sometimes there is something to be said for simplicity of form and function. If you are looking for an easy way to attach just about any electronic device to a kneeboard, then the MyClip is it.

This affordable, adjustable leg strap consists of clips mounted to a 2" Velcro strap. Instead of being a proprietary choice that only works with a specific model, the clips on the MyClip can be adjusted and sized to fit devices with widths ranging from 3" to 12".

This gives you the freedom to use the same kneeboard for your phone, your tablet or your iPad.

How to Choose the Right Pilot Kneeboard

If you aren't using an electronic device with your kneeboard, you can select a basic minimalist strap-on clipboard style like the ASA VFR Kneeboard ($20.99) or a tri-fold style with extra storage pouches and pockets such as the ASA VFR Tri-Fold ($39.99).

If you use your iPad, tablet or even a phone as a replacement or supplement to printed sectionals, you will benefit from a kneeboard that is designed to hold your device. Match the board to your device size: an iPad Mini pairs well with the Lift Navigator T-1 ($60), a full-size iPad with the MyGoFlight Leather Folio C ($174), and a large iPad Pro 12.9" with the MyGoFlight iPad Pro 12.9 Folio C ($194). If you switch between devices, the universal MyClip ($34.95) fits anything from a phone to a 12" tablet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best pilot kneeboard overall?
For most pilots, the Flight Outfitters iDeck ($79.95) is the best all-around choice because it holds both a tablet and paper at the same time and comes in small or large sizes. iPad Pro 12.9" users who want a premium leather rotating board should choose the MyGoFlight iPad Pro 12.9 Folio C ($194).

Do I need an iPad kneeboard or a standard kneeboard?
If you fly primarily with paper charts and checklists, a standard clipboard-style board like the ASA VFR Kneeboard ($20.99) is all you need. If you use an electronic flight bag (EFB) app such as ForeFlight on an iPad or tablet, choose a device kneeboard sized to your tablet, or a hybrid folio that holds both paper and a tablet.

What is the cheapest pilot kneeboard?
The aluminum ASA VFR Kneeboard at $20.99 is the most affordable quality option and includes silkscreened VFR reference information. The MyClip Multi leg strap ($34.95) is the cheapest way to mount any tablet or phone.

Which kneeboard is best for an iPad Mini?
The Lift Aviation Navigator T-1 ($60, ballistic nylon) and Navigator L-1 ($90, premium leather) are both purpose-built for the iPad Mini and use a FIDLOCK buckle system with a removable leg pad.

Are kneeboards good for student pilots?
Yes. A kneeboard keeps charts, checklists, and notes organized and within reach, which is especially helpful while you are still building cockpit workflow. Many students start with an inexpensive standard board and upgrade to a tablet kneeboard once they adopt an EFB.

Final Thoughts

A kneeboard is an invaluable cockpit tool for pilots with all levels of experience. It offers a means of keeping important charts, sheets and information easily accessible throughout the flight.

The sophistication level of your kneeboard is completely scalable. If you aren't using an electronic device with your kneeboard, you can select a basic minimalist strap-on clipboard style or a tri-fold style with extra storage pouches and pockets.

If you use your iPad, tablet or even a phone as a replacement or supplement to printed sectionals, you will benefit from a kneeboard that is designed to hold your device. Some of these digital device kneeboards are designed for a specific device while others are adjustable and can fit any device within a given diameter range. Consider one of these multi-device options if you have more than one digital device that you would like the ability to use with your kneeboard.

Whichever kneeboard you choose, it will make your flights smoother and will soon be added to your list of essential cockpit accessories. Browse the full kneeboards collection at PilotMall to compare current pricing and availability.