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There has been a lot of interest in a proper, external, keyboard for the XDA.
After reading a lot of reviews and testing what I could get my hands on, I have concluded that the ThinkOutside Stowaway Wireless Keyboard is probably the best around.
This keyboard is mainly sold in the USA, but an alternative exists; the Palm Wireless Keyboard.
I have created a small review including large pictures on my website:
http://www.mahal.dk/keyboard
Regards
Michael
Nice review, Michael!
Wouter
Thanks.
Several of my work mates have tried the keyboard and appear very impressed by the quality - and the power of the XDA II + Keyboard.
Regards
Michael
nice review, you seem to be really happy with that keyboard,
But..., have you tried the official XDA II keyboard?, it locks in the open position so can be used on your lap, and doesnt need any batteries to use it,
I am going to order hte official keyboard i think and see how i go with it
I believe I have. I used to own an Ipaq 5450 with the HP Foldable keyboard. From what I can see at the pictures I found, it might very well be the same keyboard.
The HP is sort of pulled apart then pushed together again to assemble and lock it.
If this is the same keyboard, I was not happy and found I did not use it. The main reason was that they keys was not quite large enough and had the right feed-back for touch typing. Also, very annoyingly, the space bar needed a very hard push in the right hand side. This often caused me to miss a space.
Finally, there was no mapping to those extra 3 letters we have, meaning I had to get the stylus out each time I had to use one of those letters.
On the plus side, I could charge my Ipaq when using it, but only after having the bottom connector replaced.
The price was also much higher, almost 100 GBP, the Palm Wireless Keyboard that I find better is only around 35 GBP.
Battery drain is minimal btw.
Regards
Michael
Do One need SD or CF Bluetooth card ?
Do I need to buy an SD or CF Bluetooth card to use my QTEK 20202 with the Stowaway Bluetooth Portable Keyboard, anyone know?
Regards, Johnny
Saw this a few days ago, and it got me salivating, although I can't really justify getting one; I don't spend that much time typing on my Imate.
http://www.expansys.com/product.asp?code=110909
It projects (yes projects) a keyboard onto a flat surface in front of it, then detects which key you press on the projection by means of a second ir beam. And it's about the size of a cigarette lighter.
Feedback on the site says it works with the XDA II.
I'm sure I read about this idea years ago in a sci-fi novel. It's nice to see things like that come true. Maybe I will get one. Hmmmmm......
bodstrup said:
The price was also much higher, almost 100 GBP, the Palm Wireless Keyboard that I find better is only around 35 GBP.
Michael
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Click to collapse
Does the palm keyboard work with XDA2?
That or similar laser projected keyboard was on Gadgets Gadgets Gadgets on TV the other night and they demonstrated it using an XDAII.
It looked like it worked very well But you have to have a flat surface. Also typing on a flat surface would feal strange to me i think.
Ok, I've been a very proud owner of the Samsung Omnia i8910 for a few months now... Still considering which phone I'm going to keep now after getting the Nexus one.
But I just wanted to confirm that awhile back I bought a car dock/holder for the Omnia but to my suprise and delight it fits the Nexus absolutely perfect. IMO this is the best car holder on the market. Proclip USA makes excellent products and I can confirm this particular dock is not only excellent but fits the N1 perfect as well.
Defininetly more expensive than others especially those you can find on ebay from china... but for me well worth it. If anyone is considering this their website - proclipusa.com - you need to select your country and then they give you the option for make of car and make of phone. Obviously there is no selection for the Nexus one but I can guarantee the model of phone you need to select is the Samsung i8910 Omnia HD, the product number is - 511020 - put that in the search and you'll find it. This is for the Holder with tilt swivel which is perfect for maps & navigation as you can swivel it landscape for great looking directions... they even have a model with a built in charger but I just opted for the holder with tilt swivel.
I am not affiliated with this company whatsoever just a happy customer.
Again it is expensive but I love it and love the fact you can select the make of your car and it comes pre-configured to mount to it.
**Edit: Forgot to mention there is no drilling and messing up your dash... just simply applies with a sticky backing and can easily be uninstalled without any damage whatsoever.
I am not sure that what you are describing or the pictures attached are what is typically considered to be a dock.
A dock would include a charging station, that is the purpose of the contacts on the bottom of the Nexus one. Ideally, the docking station would allow you to use transmit the Nexus One media thru the auto sound system.
Thanks for the information but that is a phone holder not a dock. The dock will be capable of charging the phone through the contact points on the bottom of the N1. The dock may also interface with your car radio and possibly other functions yet to be determined.
jacksonj51 said:
Ok, I've been a very proud owner of the Samsung Omnia i8910 for a few months now... Still considering which phone I'm going to keep now after getting the Nexus one.
But I just wanted to confirm that awhile back I bought a car dock/holder for the Omnia but to my suprise and delight it fits the Nexus absolutely perfect. IMO this is the best car holder on the market. Proclip USA makes excellent products and I can confirm this particular dock is not only excellent but fits the N1 perfect as well.
Defininetly more expensive than others especially those you can find on ebay from china... but for me well worth it. If anyone is considering this their website - proclipusa.com - you need to select your country and then they give you the option for make of car and make of phone. Obviously there is no selection for the Nexus one but I can guarantee the model of phone you need to select is the Samsung i8910 Omnia HD, the product number is - 511020 - put that in the search and you'll find it. This is for the Holder with tilt swivel which is perfect for maps & navigation as you can swivel it landscape for great looking directions... they even have a model with a built in charger but I just opted for the holder with tilt swivel.
I am not affiliated with this company whatsoever just a happy customer.
Again it is expensive but I love it and love the fact you can select the make of your car and it comes pre-configured to mount to it.
**Edit: Forgot to mention there is no drilling and messing up your dash... just simply applies with a sticky backing and can easily be uninstalled without any damage whatsoever.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
link? can you provide a link from where you bought the dock from?
Yes I think I put the link in at the OP but its at proclipusa.com
Also stated I believe is that yes I just bout the holder and since there is an opening at the bottom charging is perfect as it hooks up right to the bottom but I didn't get the other version offered which included a coiled charging station.
I do like the look of that phoneclip, however my only concern that I can see is, how does the phone not vibrate out of it while its horizontal?
This fits the N1 so good that it almost takes two hands to pull it out... there's no way it can come out without pulling it out and certainly not due to vibration.
Would it being as tight as you say, cause it to wear out on the phones material on the sides?
mesajoejoe said:
Would it being as tight as you say, cause it to wear out on the phones material on the sides?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Seconded, this would be good to know too. Although I've already ordered one, which hopefully should just connect to the existing brodit mount I had for my Touch Pro 2.
Wow, I checked into that website. I really like the interface of the website. How it shows pictures of your specific dash, and where and how the phone will sit. Very expensive. I mean 65 bucks, for the setup and that is only the mount and swivel. No way. When the real Nexus One docks come out. The Car Mount is going to be 50 and the desktop mount will be 40. Both the dock's will use the gold contacts on the bottom for charging. And the car dock should have options to work directly with car stereo (optional of course).
Wait guys it's coming about 10 day is my guess.
Well mine came in the post today. Screwed onto the existing mount I had for my Touch Pro 2 just fine. The N1 does indeed fit fine but is very tight. Didn't scratch the phone and no way is it falling out when horizontal.
I've been using my Iphone in car with this dock.
Just Mobile Xtand Go (google it)
I was really impressed to see that it EXACTLY fits my N1
IMHO, it's really the best dock around
now...i am just missing FM transmission.
Would you need pics...please request
I am using this car dock until the real Nexus One docks are ready. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001DQQBVW...e=asn&creative=380341&creativeASIN=B001DQQBVW
If you are looking for a good bluetooth stereo for your nexus that works really well. Try this one. http://signature.crutchfield.com/s_105KDA805/JVC-Arsenal-KD-A805.html?search=JVC+KDA805&ssi=0
Once you sync your stereo with your phone the first time. You can just leave your phone in your pocket if you want, you can answer phone calls from your stereo, or even make them from your stereo if you want, you can listen to music from your phone on the stereo by just using the stereo's remote. With you phone still in your pocket.
If a person doesnt want to replace their stereo and just want's to use a fm transmitter. Get the motorola t505 I used it for 3 months it does work. Hands free driving syncs with any stereo any car. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16875982214&Tpk=motoraloa t505
The ProClip holders are quite nice, but I think the Omnia II might be a better fit:
Nexus One: 119 x 59.8 x 11.5
Omnia II: 118 x 59.6 x 12.3
Omnia i8910: 123 x 58 x 12.9
The OmniaII's width is just .2mm thinner than the Nexus and thickness is only .8 thicker.
karnovaran said:
The ProClip holders are quite nice, but I think the Omnia II might be a better fit:
Nexus One: 119 x 59.8 x 11.5
Omnia II: 118 x 59.6 x 12.3
Omnia i8910: 123 x 58 x 12.9
The OmniaII's width is just .2mm thinner than the Nexus and thickness is only .8 thicker.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
just ordered the omnia II I will report once received.
http://www.amazon.com/Type-AC30267-60-XGrip-Universal-Holder/dp/B001PRPBB0
BEST Phone holder.. BY FAR
bought this to use with my G1 back when the Sprint Hero Nav app was dumped.. used it many times and works excellent with the Nexus One as well ... it rotates landscape and it unclips to use in the dash vent .. i originally wanted it because it doesnt interfere with the touchscreen and its low profile wont let it vibrate too much..and it has a good grasp on the phone without damage (i run a track setup on my suspension with competition spring rates and coilovers.. along with solid engine mounts)
TailsNeon556 said:
http://www.amazon.com/Type-AC30267-60-XGrip-Universal-Holder/dp/B001PRPBB0
BEST Phone holder.. BY FAR
bought this to use with my G1 back when the Sprint Hero Nav app was dumped.. used it many times and works excellent with the Nexus One as well ... it rotates landscape and it unclips to use in the dash vent .. i originally wanted it because it doesnt interfere with the touchscreen and its low profile wont let it vibrate too much..and it has a good grasp on the phone without damage (i run a track setup on my suspension with competition spring rates and coilovers.. along with solid engine mounts)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any pictures? I couldn't find any online besides that amazon one. How about some with the n1 attached and also attached to a car vent?
looks good thanks!
Though I did order a car mount, i just spotting this one and like the fact it's made for the nexus one.. not sure if i'm going to get it or not and return the one i just ordered.
http://www.nexusoneblogaccessories.com/servlet/the-Nexus-One-Car-Mount/Categories
Im looking for a bt keyboard for my 7+ that is the same physical size so it close in a case. Any suggestions?
KDOG2020 said:
Im looking for a bt keyboard for my 7+ that is the same physical size so it close in a case. Any suggestions?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think I'm going to give this a go.
http://www.dealextreme.com/p/blueto...pu-leather-case-for-samsung-p1000-black-56365
I just got the same keyboard today from Amazon. It was $40 works great. Came in a couple days.
Sent from my PG86100 using XDA App
how'd you like it?
$40 is half what samsung's site charges.
The stylus looks interesting too.
goldy253 said:
I just got the same keyboard today from Amazon. It was $40 works great. Came in a couple days.
Sent from my PG86100 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you tell me the exact name for this keyboard? I searched in Amazon and it list tons of different keyboard, most are NOT for the 7+.
I did find this though:
http://www.amazon.com/eWonder-TM-Wi...3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1327626663&sr=1-3
My local discount/closeout store (Marc's, here in Ohio) had a bluetooth keyboard that's a little big but the price was right... I think it would be big even with a 10" but I haven't compared it to the family iPad yet. Made by Merkury Innovations (no, that's not a typo), was $30 at the store, runs on 2 AAA batteries (which is great for a distracted individual like myself who forgets to charge up non-daily-use devices if they don't have very clear low-battery warning indicators). I've had a ThinkOutside folding Bluetooth Keyboard that I've been using with my MyTouch 4G Slide (when I want to type more than I want to do on a thumbboard - I use my Android devices for taking notes in my grad classes when I don't feel like lugging along my laptop). The ThinkOutside keyboard is great for portability so long as I'm not going to be typing numbers very much (has no dedicated number keys and I find the hold down function and number key combo annoying). I'm also working on a novel and the TO is great for that but my grad classes involve a lot of numeric input so I decided I wanted something with numbers. Tested out the MI keyboard, all the main keys are properly mapped. Not entirely sure about the control/option+alt/command keys. It is about the same keyspacing as a standard keyboard but very little room around the edges. Considering picking up another for our media PC hooked to the television in the family room (cheap nettop box, wanted something a bit more advanced than a roku for the kids to play educational games on & such). We use Unified Remote on our Android devices to control that television to good effect, keyboard would be more for the kids to use and this one is good footprint and price for that use also.
DragonMam said:
My local discount/closeout store (Marc's, here in Ohio) had a bluetooth keyboard that's a little big but the price was right... I think it would be big even with a 10" but I haven't compared it to the family iPad yet. Made by Merkury Innovations (no, that's not a typo), was $30 at the store, runs on 2 AAA batteries (which is great for a distracted individual like myself who forgets to charge up non-daily-use devices if they don't have very clear low-battery warning indicators). I've had a ThinkOutside folding Bluetooth Keyboard that I've been using with my MyTouch 4G Slide (when I want to type more than I want to do on a thumbboard - I use my Android devices for taking notes in my grad classes when I don't feel like lugging along my laptop). The ThinkOutside keyboard is great for portability so long as I'm not going to be typing numbers very much (has no dedicated number keys and I find the hold down function and number key combo annoying). I'm also working on a novel and the TO is great for that but my grad classes involve a lot of numeric input so I decided I wanted something with numbers. Tested out the MI keyboard, all the main keys are properly mapped. Not entirely sure about the control/option+alt/command keys. It is about the same keyspacing as a standard keyboard but very little room around the edges. Considering picking up another for our media PC hooked to the television in the family room (cheap nettop box, wanted something a bit more advanced than a roku for the kids to play educational games on & such). We use Unified Remote on our Android devices to control that television to good effect, keyboard would be more for the kids to use and this one is good footprint and price for that use also.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which Marc's?
bought this at my local Fry's. I know it's a little bit longer than the Tab+ but I think it's the perfect size while not making the keys too small and thin enough when i want to pack a keyboard with me. I tried a few where the keyboard was exactly the same length as the tablet and the keys were so small and cramped that it wasn't worth it with all the errors introduced during my typing test.
Manufactured by Azio and can pair and switch between 6 different BT devices via hotkey.
The only thing i was hoping to see by now is a keyboard that has android shortcut keys for the home, back, search, and recent. Has anyone seen a hardware keyboard that does that?
lanwarrior said:
Can you tell me the exact name for this keyboard? I searched in Amazon and it list tons of different keyboard, most are NOT for the 7+.
I did find this though:
http://www.amazon.com/eWonder-TM-Wi...3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1327626663&sr=1-3
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
wow, this alone is a very awesome find. I wish to know if it has cutouts for the IR Blaster though
dealextreme case
I purchased that keyboard case from dealextreme. It took a wile to get here but was in good condition. The unit worked fine connected well and works as advertised. I do have several problems with it. The tab does not fit tightly in the holder. The case adds significantly to the size of the tab. There is nothing to hold the case closed. The final downfall is I think I can type faster on the onscreen keyboards.
Jon
jonsteckelberg said:
I purchased that keyboard case from dealextreme. It took a wile to get here but was in good condition. The unit worked fine connected well and works as advertised. I do have several problems with it. The tab does not fit tightly in the holder. The case adds significantly to the size of the tab. There is nothing to hold the case closed. The final downfall is I think I can type faster on the onscreen keyboards.
Jon
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Click to collapse
Yeah I have the same keyboard. Works nicely in class lectures when I need to take notes. Then one day I forgot it (because it's so mahoosive) and found out I type faster and more accurately with thumb keyboard.....yeah.....
Macros617 said:
Yeah I have the same keyboard. Works nicely in class lectures when I need to take notes. Then one day I forgot it (because it's so mahoosive) and found out I type faster and more accurately with thumb keyboard.....yeah.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What app for you use for notes?
Sent from my GT-P6210 using Tapatalk
domin8 said:
What app for you use for notes?
Sent from my GT-P6210 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use the built in polaris office application. Works nicely. I also use docs to go
Any Keyboard Updates?
I'm also in the market for a keyboard for my tabby.
Anybody find any additional keyboards that are worth looking at?
Also do you experience lag when using your keyboard?
Plus, can you use a mouse with the tab+?
best regards,
G.B. Says
Logitech Tablet Keyboard
I just picked up a Logitech Tablet Keyboard (NOT the Logitech iPad keyboard - they are different models). Build quality is awesome - this is a solid yet still lightweight device. It had no problem pairing up with the GT+ and did not drop any keystrokes when I used it to type.
Added bonus - the Logitech keyboard fits perfectly in a Vera Bradley "Cheers to You" wine bottle tote. For the stylish girl geeks.
I have the Official Keyboard Dock from Samsung and I really enjoy it.
I finally decided and picked up the Logitech bluetooth keyboard for Android. Pretty nifty; seems like a sold keyboard, synched right away to my 7+, like the fact that the keyboard has its own case that converts into a stable angled perch for the 7+ and that you can use it with the table either in landscape or portrait. Though I do wish it had multiple tilt lockings so I can choose what angle my 7+is perched at. So far, very pleased with the purchase.
Sent from my GT-P6210 using xda premium
I was thinking of getting a keyboard but are there any real advantages?other than the hole physical keyboard its self?
Sent from my GT-P6210 using Tapatalk 2
If you find that you are typing more than short messages or notes, you might want to consider it.
G.B. Says
And remember, talking dogs are liars.
I am thinking of buying the keyboard. Does it just work for text input anywhere the onscreen keyboard shows up? Email is the obvious use but what else is it good for... which doc editor does it really shine with?
...sent from Infinity
It "just works" everywhere. It's completely seamless - all apps work with the keyboard by default.
I probably keep my Infinity docked 90% of the time (if not more) - it also works great as a stand for the device for when you are watching videos, etc...
The only downside is that I find myself constantly trying to "touch" my laptop screen when at work (I have a regular work-supplied laptop that I use at work, along with my Infinity, which I mainly use for note-taking while at work)....
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 2
Ya i'd say the reason i got the transformer is because of the keyboard. I use it 99% of the time while docked. Use the dock for USB, use it for the full sized SD cardslot, use it for the keyboard, hell even some java heavy sites i use it for the touchpad for those "mouse hover" things in the web browser.
Its great for keeping the tablet standing up when your watching a movie or video chatting
I also have the problem where now i always go to touch screens of laptops because im used to touching links or icons on my tablet XD
Oh! and dont forget the extra battery capacity!
All in all, $150 is a bit steep for the keyboard dock, see if you can get an opened box for closer to $100 and its a great deal!
I use my Infinity keyboard to chop sandwiches in half.
I had the keyboard for my TF101 and never used the dock for anything more than a stand, a USB port and an extended battery. Now that I own a backpack with a 6000mAH battery built into it, a leather case that acts well as a stand, and the USB kit, I get all the same functionality without the added bulk or weight of the keyboard dock. Plus I have my trusted Motorola Bluetooth keyboard in case I ever want to use a keyboard on my Infinity.
My suggestion, buy the keyboard dock and try it. Its not for everyone.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T
Weirdo0815 said:
Now that I own a backpack with a 6000mAH battery built into it, a leather case that acts well as a stand, and the USB kit, I get all the same functionality without the added bulk or weight of the keyboard dock
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you mean a backpack, the kind you throw over your shoulder, with a battery sewn into it? You run a cable between your backpack and the tablet? Or something that attaches to the back of the tablet? I don't know of this product.
Thanks!
PaulQ602 said:
Do you mean a backpack, the kind you throw over your shoulder, with a battery sewn into it? You run a cable between your backpack and the tablet? Or something that attaches to the back of the tablet? I don't know of this product.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My backpack is a PowerPack Deluxe Backpack. http://www.mypowerbag.com/backpacks/backpack-6000.html
The company produces a handful of backpacks, messenger bags and even some briefcases all with a battery and charge cables built right into the bag. They are expensive though. I would recommend buying it from Amazon, my Deluxe bag was like $35 cheaper there.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T
jevans64 said:
I use my Infinity keyboard to chop sandwiches in half.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish the keys were taller...my waffles would turn out better!
Weirdo0815 said:
My backpack is a PowerPack Deluxe Backpack. http://www.mypowerbag.com/backpacks/backpack-6000.html
The company produces a handful of backpacks, messenger bags and even some briefcases all with a battery and charge cables built right into the bag. They are expensive though. I would recommend buying it from Amazon, my Deluxe bag was like $35 cheaper there.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A word of warning about my backpack though... it maxes out at 500mA charging power. Every tablet I have seen uses a 1000mA charger, including the Infinity and the TF300 (most cell phones charge at ~500mA). The backpack will in fact charge my Infinity but I can't be using the tablet, it must be in the Power Save mode and the screen must be asleep. It takes a while too but I does charge it.
I personally don't travel enough to have a problem with it but I can see why my backpack solution isn't great for everyone. I mostly use my backpack for charging my Galaxy Nexus, not any tablets but I do know of works. You could always buy some sort of portable charger/battery that is standalone and put it in whatever bag you have already. It would be cheaper and you may be able to find one that charges devices at 1000mA. If I had to do it over again, the standalone battery idea would be very tempting.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T
As a writer, I use the keyboard a lot. Personally I use Kingsoft Office. It does have a bit of a "Oi, Slow the bloody hell down silly woman!" issue when I get over 100 words per minute, but other than that it works fine.
The keyboard works everywhere, and pretty much like a normal keyboard.
Typing on the homescreen makes Google Search search for your entry both online and internally.
The arrow keys can be used to navigate between the homescreens and the items. Enter launches the selected app.
Every app supports the keyboard, where there is a point. (Games like angry birds are obviously not about a keyboard.)
Most videoplayers can be controlled with the keys. (BS, MX) (spacebar for pause, etc) This makes us all OCD a bit less over the screen cleanness.
It also makes a very useful stand for watching videos, or when don't want to hold it and prefer to rest it on your lap. (Since there's no heatable hardware in the keyboard, it doesn't overheat the way a laptop would.) Since you can rest it on a table, you can easily plug in an external harddrive and run larger films from that.
And the extra battery is a real treasure.
And it's a fantastic screen protector during travel, since it folds like a laptop.
ShadowLea said:
As a writer, I use the keyboard a lot. Personally I use Kingsoft Office. It does have a bit of a "Oi, Slow the bloody hell down silly woman!" issue when I get over 100 words per minute, but other than that it works fine.
The keyboard works everywhere, and pretty much like a normal keyboard.
Typing on the homescreen makes Google Search search for your entry both online and internally.
The arrow keys can be used to navigate between the homescreens and the items. Enter launches the selected app.
Every app supports the keyboard, where there is a point. (Games like angry birds are obviously not about a keyboard.)
Most videoplayers can be controlled with the keys. (BS, MX) (spacebar for pause, etc) This makes us all OCD a bit less over the screen cleanness.
It also makes a very useful stand for watching videos, or when don't want to hold it and prefer to rest it on your lap. (Since there's no heatable hardware in the keyboard, it doesn't overheat the way a laptop would.) Since you can rest it on a table, you can easily plug in an external harddrive and run larger films from that.
And the extra battery is a real treasure.
And it's a fantastic screen protector during travel, since it folds like a laptop.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very well said.
Weirdo0815 said:
My backpack is a PowerPack Deluxe Backpack. http://www.mypowerbag.com/backpacks/backpack-6000.html
The company produces a handful of backpacks, messenger bags and even some briefcases all with a battery and charge cables built right into the bag. They are expensive though. I would recommend buying it from Amazon, my Deluxe bag was like $35 cheaper there.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What a cool idea. I don't really need that now but great idea!
So there the expensive official keyboard, the cheaper logitech keyboard..
Can anyone who has tried these post a small review? I've seen reviews of the official samsung one but not the logitech.. the logitech one would suit my black model tab to match my S5
Or.. is it just a stupid rip off (as it seems buy the prices) and get a much cheaper bluetooth keyboard
TBH I'm not sure if i'll even use it, but.. i like to have everything for my devices
Idk where to find the link in the YouTube app but go search for Samsung Galaxy tab S keyboard and I recommend the logitech one since it's cheaper and better and it also has a case with it with decent protection. I too like to have all stuff for my device. I'm not even sure what to get yet as they're still expensive, maybe the prices will go down eventually.
Sent from my SM-T805
Not sure if you are aware but if you register your Tab with Samsung at their website, they will email you a coupon code for 50% off any 3 accessories. This will allow you to get the official keyboard at just about the same price as the Logitech one (about $10 difference). I can't comment on the Logitech but I do have the Samsung one and I do like it. Also like how well it matches and still maintain relatively low profile.
Cheers didnt know you could do that ill sign up
anyone try a 3rd party ebay keyboard, like Ebay Item # 251714259830 ( Would post a link but under 10 posts so I can't )
I love the official keyboard for all the usual obvious awesome reasons. But I really miss a trackpad while in laptop mode.
I found the Amazon Fire Keyboard right in the same BestBuy where I got the official keyboard. It's smaller than the Samsung in every dimension, height, width, thinner, lighter, WITH a trackpad, and yet the keys are actually larger. Has almost identical features and keys. Like all 12 F-keys, and a back button that works as Esc key at least in a couple terminal/ssh apps which I need. Ctrl, Alt, etc. And to top it all off, I paid $150 for the Samsung and the Fire was only $79 open box but clean. Only $89 unopened.
It's a wonderfully slick little keyboard. Perfectly flat, thin, light, simple, clean.
However all in all, I haven't yet made up my mind which is the better overall kit. There are some pros & cons about each.
Since I want a pointing device, I'm comparing not just two keyboards but two complete kits.
Using the Samsung keyboard means I have to carry a mouse or trackpad or some kind of pointing device other than touching the screen, and I DON'T have to use any kind of case. (I don't like cases.)
Using the Fire keyboard means I don't have to carry any extra pointing device, but I DO have to put the book cover on the tablet to provide a kickstand since the Fire keyboard doesn't. It also means I'm carrying two loose items instead of two items snapped together into one item.
I found a pretty slick little (expensive, and not as small as I'd really like) bluetooth mouse that goes well. HP Bluetooth Mouse Z8000. It looks like there are no buttons, or like the entire mouse is one big mouse button, but in fact if you press on the top-left or top-right, it has distinct left and right mouse buttons. It has a capacitive touch sensitive top surface that provides a virtual scroll-wheel. Just swipe your finger on the spot where a scroll wheel would normally be, and it works. It takes 2 AAA batteries, no usb recharging port.
So I have two possible configurations I'm comparing:
1) Official keyboard + mouse.
PROS: Mouse is actually pretty optional. If I leave it behind in the car, I can still touch the screen directly. So when max convenience matters, just grabbing the tablet & keyboard snapped together is better than grabbing the tablet and Fire keyboard as two loose items. This mouse works a lot better than the trackpad in the Fire keyboard. Mouse has normal left & right buttons and scroll. No need for book cover or other case. Keyboard provides all that is necessary, neat and clean. Looks better, peices all match well. Samsung keyboard has slightly better keys and compatibility: Samsung has PgUp/PgDn/Home/End, Fire does not. Samsung layout is closer to standard pc, particularly the {[ }] |\ ;: ~` keys, the very existence of PgUp/PgDn Home/End keys, and the fact that they are doubled up with the arrow keys in the obvious way, where the Fire keyboard puts display brightness on Up/Dn, and nothing on Left/Right. The primary functions of all of the F-keys are standard universal Android or hardware functions, not Samsung special. Only Samsung special key is S-finder, and that's a secondary Fn function and is off to the side not on a central F-key. Keyboard provides kickstand. It's much more convenient to grab the naked tablet when you want to. The book cover snaps in place very strongly and is hard to pry off, and to snap back on. While it's effortless to combine or separate the tablet and keyboard cover.
CONS: Lumpy extra loose object carrying the mouse. Ugh! Samsung keyboard + mouse is a more expensive total kit than Fire keyboard + book cover, though not by a lot. 3 total battery powered objects to recharge or replace: Tablet, keyboard, mouse.
2) Fire keyboard + book cover.
PROS: Smaller, thinner, lighter. Cheaper. Built-in pointing device. Only 2 total battery powered objects to carry and keep charged instead of 3: Tablet and keyboard. Both objects rechargeable by micro usb, no batteries to buy, or leak. Kit, tablet + keyboard, is flat, no mouse lump. Kit is a little cheaper. Keyboard is more useful with other devices than the tablet. It isn't shaped specifically to fit exactly one specific tablet. You can use it for home theater pc, PS3, phone/phablet, anything. Book cover provides two tilt angles vs the Samsung keyboard only provides one.
CONS: Keys are less standard. F3 is a shopping cart, Amazon remember. Android "home" is a dedicated button where F1 should be. `~ {[ }] += :; are all in odd places. PgUp/PgDn/Home/End don't exist at all. Trackpad doesn't work as smoothly, accurately, or effortlessly as the mouse. There IS one mouse button, in the form of the whole track pad clicks. That provides only a left-click function, and click-dragging (dragging while holding down the button) is very awkward and mostly doesn't work well, as you are trying to slide across a surface that you are pressing down quite hard on. No right-click. No scroll-wheel. Requires some other way to prop the tablet up, IE: book cover. Keyboard says "Amazon" on the back, and I hate Amazon (WalMart of the Internet).
A few things that are notably pretty good, or bad, but the same for both kits, at least for me:
* Both have all 12 F-keys. (good)
* Both have all 12 F-keys as secondary Fn+F# keys, not primary functions. (inconvenient)
* Both have android back button that functions as Esc key in at least a few terminal/ssh apps. (good)
* Both have Ctrl & Alt (good)
* Both have 4 arrows, and in a reasonable spot. (good)
* Both have capslock with light (who cares?)
* Both have Android Back, Home, and Menu buttons. (good, menu is particularly handy now that it's removed from the device itself and the overflow button doesn't always appear on screen)
* Both have Delete (good)
* Both lack Insert (bad)
* Both lack Scroll-Lock/Num-Lock, Print-Scr/SysRq, Break (bad)
* Both charge by micro usb and claim to last for months. (good)
This pic shows Left: Samsung keyboard + HP mouse. Right: Fire keyboard + Samsung book cover. In-use and packed for travel.
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KEYofR said:
I love the official keyboard for all the usual obvious awesome reasons. But I really miss a trackpad while in laptop mode.
I found the Amazon Fire Keyboard right in the same BestBuy where I got the official keyboard. It's smaller than the Samsung in every dimension, height, width, thinner, lighter, WITH a trackpad, and yet the keys are actually larger. Has almost identical features and keys. Like all 12 F-keys, and a back button that works as Esc key at least in a couple terminal/ssh apps which I need. Ctrl, Alt, etc. And to top it all off, I paid $150 for the Samsung and the Fire was only $79 open box but clean. Only $89 unopened.
It's a wonderfully slick little keyboard. Perfectly flat, thin, light, simple, clean.
However all in all, I haven't yet made up my mind which is the better overall kit. There are some pros & cons about each.
Since I want a pointing device, I'm comparing not just two keyboards but two complete kits.
Using the Samsung keyboard means I have to carry a mouse or trackpad or some kind of pointing device other than touching the screen, and I DON'T have to use any kind of case. (I don't like cases.)
Using the Fire keyboard means I don't have to carry any extra pointing device, but I DO have to put the book cover on the tablet to provide a kickstand since the Fire keyboard doesn't. It also means I'm carrying two loose items instead of two items snapped together into one item.
I found a pretty slick little (expensive, and not as small as I'd really like) bluetooth mouse that goes well. HP Bluetooth Mouse Z8000. It looks like there are no buttons, or like the entire mouse is one big mouse button, but in fact if you press on the top-left or top-right, it has distinct left and right mouse buttons. It has a capacitive touch sensitive top surface that provides a virtual scroll-wheel. Just swipe your finger on the spot where a scroll wheel would normally be, and it works. It takes 2 AAA batteries, no usb recharging port.
So I have two possible configurations I'm comparing:
1) Official keyboard + mouse.
PROS: Mouse is actually pretty optional. If I leave it behind in the car, I can still touch the screen directly. So when max convenience matters, just grabbing the tablet & keyboard snapped together is better than grabbing the tablet and Fire keyboard as two loose items. This mouse works a lot better than the trackpad in the Fire keyboard. Mouse has normal left & right buttons and scroll. No need for book cover or other case. Keyboard provides all that is necessary, neat and clean. Looks better, peices all match well. Samsung keyboard has slightly better keys and compatibility: Samsung has PgUp/PgDn/Home/End, Fire does not. Samsung layout is closer to standard pc, particularly the {[ }] |\ ;: ~` keys, the very existence of PgUp/PgDn Home/End keys, and the fact that they are doubled up with the arrow keys in the obvious way, where the Fire keyboard puts display brightness on Up/Dn, and nothing on Left/Right. The primary functions of all of the F-keys are standard universal Android or hardware functions, not Samsung special. Only Samsung special key is S-finder, and that's a secondary Fn function and is off to the side not on a central F-key. Keyboard provides kickstand. It's much more convenient to grab the naked tablet when you want to. The book cover snaps in place very strongly and is hard to pry off, and to snap back on. While it's effortless to combine or separate the tablet and keyboard cover.
CONS: Lumpy extra loose object carrying the mouse. Ugh! Samsung keyboard + mouse is a more expensive total kit than Fire keyboard + book cover, though not by a lot. 3 total battery powered objects to recharge or replace: Tablet, keyboard, mouse.
2) Fire keyboard + book cover.
PROS: Smaller, thinner, lighter. Cheaper. Built-in pointing device. Only 2 total battery powered objects to carry and keep charged instead of 3: Tablet and keyboard. Both objects rechargeable by micro usb, no batteries to buy, or leak. Kit, tablet + keyboard, is flat, no mouse lump. Kit is a little cheaper. Keyboard is more useful with other devices than the tablet. It isn't shaped specifically to fit exactly one specific tablet. You can use it for home theater pc, PS3, phone/phablet, anything. Book cover provides two tilt angles vs the Samsung keyboard only provides one.
CONS: Keys are less standard. F3 is a shopping cart, Amazon remember. Android "home" is a dedicated button where F1 should be. `~ {[ }] += :; are all in odd places. PgUp/PgDn/Home/End don't exist at all. Trackpad doesn't work as smoothly, accurately, or effortlessly as the mouse. There IS one mouse button, in the form of the whole track pad clicks. That provides only a left-click function, and click-dragging (dragging while holding down the button) is very awkward and mostly doesn't work well, as you are trying to slide across a surface that you are pressing down quite hard on. No right-click. No scroll-wheel. Requires some other way to prop the tablet up, IE: book cover. Keyboard says "Amazon" on the back, and I hate Amazon (WalMart of the Internet).
A few things that are notably pretty good, or bad, but the same for both kits, at least for me:
* Both have all 12 F-keys. (good)
* Both have all 12 F-keys as secondary Fn+F# keys, not primary functions. (inconvenient)
* Both have android back button that functions as Esc key in at least a few terminal/ssh apps. (good)
* Both have Ctrl & Alt (good)
* Both have 4 arrows, and in a reasonable spot. (good)
* Both have capslock with light (who cares?)
* Both have Android Back, Home, and Menu buttons. (good, menu is particularly handy now that it's removed from the device itself and the overflow button doesn't always appear on screen)
* Both have Delete (good)
* Both lack Insert (bad)
* Both lack Scroll-Lock/Num-Lock, Print-Scr/SysRq, Break (bad)
* Both charge by micro usb and claim to last for months. (good)
This pic shows Left: Samsung keyboard + HP mouse. Right: Fire keyboard + Samsung book cover. In-use and packed for travel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Personally, I'd stick with the Samsung keyboard. As you highlighted, its a single piece to grab and works well together. The mouse you picked up actually looks cools and doesn't actually look that big. You can probably find a case to house all three together so that you have a single item to grab. Another sleek mouse is the Logitech Bluetooth mouse. It's small, and lightweight. Only issue is expensive, about $60. Also, if you just picked up the Samsung keyboard, return it. You paid way too much. If you register you Tab with Samsung, they will send you a 50% off accessory coupon. You can then get it for about $80 shipped.
I think I am leaning that way. Using the Samsung keyboard and the separate mouse most of the time. I'll use the Fire keyboard for something else like my phone or the TV. Or give it to someone who has a Kindle Fire HD.
I think the Fire keyboard is turning out to be like when I see a shirt that just looks amazing on the hanger, but no matter what I do, looks like crap on me. No denying it's an amazing shirt. No denying it still does me no good.
KEYofR said:
I think I am leaning that way. Using the Samsung keyboard and the separate mouse most of the time. I'll use the Fire keyboard for something else like my phone or the TV. Or give it to someone who has a Kindle Fire HD.
I think the Fire keyboard is turning out to be like when I see a shirt that just looks amazing on the hanger, but no matter what I do, looks like crap on me. No denying it's an amazing shirt. No denying it still does me no good.
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Click to collapse
Hey, is the samsung keyboard case friendly?
Offica said:
So there the expensive official keyboard, the cheaper logitech keyboard..
Can anyone who has tried these post a small review? I've seen reviews of the official samsung one but not the logitech.. the logitech one would suit my black model tab to match my S5
Or.. is it just a stupid rip off (as it seems buy the prices) and get a much cheaper bluetooth keyboard
TBH I'm not sure if i'll even use it, but.. i like to have everything for my devices
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Click to collapse
I picked up the Logitech Type S keyboard case before I knew I was going to get a 50% coupon from Sammy and I love it. They keyboard is almost identical in key size, feel and key travel to the Logitech keyboard I use for my desktop minus the F-Key row. What I like over the style of keyboard that the Sammy keyboard is that it locks the tablet in rather than simply balancing the tablet in a trough. This makes it very secure for using it on your lap (I have a long train commute with no tray tables). It obviously folds to use as just a tablet, but it is obviously not as easy to pull the tablet out of the case which doesn't bother me but might some. The pairing is always very fast. Further, the design, feel and materials of the case are very premium. This is one of the nicest tablet keyboards I have ever used and truly makes my 10.5" tablet an ultrabook (the 128 GB sd helps there too ).
I'm extremely happy with the Logitech Type S keyboard.
Is there any case that is friendly for 10.5 and samsung keyboard that offers drop protection? I dont want to carry 2 things around. Thanks
Just so everyone knows, I ordered the Samsung keyboard in bronze on 17 Jan and it was on backorder. It's now 17 Feb and I still haven' t seen a keyboard. Samsung customer service isn't very helpful. They could care less! Yes, I'm using my 50% off coupon.
Sent from my SM-T800 using XDA Free mobile app
Guardsix said:
Just so everyone knows, I ordered the Samsung keyboard in bronze on 17 Jan and it was on backorder. It's now 17 Feb and I still haven' t seen a keyboard. Samsung customer service isn't very helpful. They could care less! Yes, I'm using my 50% off coupon.
Sent from my SM-T800 using XDA Free mobile app
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Click to collapse
Yeah, I am not sure it is actually on backorder. Personally I think Samsung is playing games with the 50% off coupon. I had the same issue with the Samsung S mouse. Waited 3 weeks and got no response from Samsung. Emailed them twice for updates and no response. Third time I emailed them to cancel order as I would not authorize Credit card charge, then I get an email response. Terrible customer service. I know when I ordered mine, there were a few just sitting available at Best Buy. Same with your keyboard, I've seen them available for weeks in the stores. I truly believe Samsung just doesn't want to honor the coupon IMHO.
Ive had nothing but bad experiences when ordering from samsung mobile. I have a dev note 4...what a train wreck that was. On another note my girlfriend is recieving her bronze keyboard for the tab s 10.5 on the 20th. It will be delivered to the house from best buy.
I use the Logitech Type S with my 10.5. Been very usefull and works perfectly. The only complaint I got, is the lack of backlight on the keys.
I would prefer backlighting. I've read very good reviews about the Type S keyboard. Maybe they will make a version with backlighting shortly?
Sent from my KFAPWI using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
I'd like a keyboard with track pad and backlighting. Track pad is the most important feature... does anyone know of any good option?
There are some cheapo ones with trackpad, but I don't know of any serious one, unfortunately. Also touchpad doesn't work well with android, yet. I have Apple keyboard&trackpad.
Then, there is the Lenovo keyboard, with trackpoint, which might be an alternative.
cbb77 said:
Yeah, I am not sure it is actually on backorder. Personally I think Samsung is playing games with the 50% off coupon. I had the same issue with the Samsung S mouse. Waited 3 weeks and got no response from Samsung. Emailed them twice for updates and no response. Third time I emailed them to cancel order as I would not authorize Credit card charge, then I get an email response. Terrible customer service. I know when I ordered mine, there were a few just sitting available at Best Buy. Same with your keyboard, I've seen them available for weeks in the stores. I truly believe Samsung just doesn't want to honor the coupon IMHO.
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Click to collapse
Agreed, I am about to begin the process of disputing through PayPal. Their official site still shows "ships within 1-3 days" but they pulled the same back order BS on me - after collecting my money of course.
I gave them one final chance to ship by Monday, then I am disputing the charge, getting my money back, and returning my Tab S 10.5 to Best Buy and never buying from Samsung again. They've been stringing me along lying the entire time, all because they don't want to honor their "gift" to me. Piss poor customer service.