Hi,
Has anybody found a good clamshell keyboard that would fit the Pixel C? I mean keyboards that have a hinge at the back where you fit the tablet and then can close it like a notebook, and, most importantly, change the angle any way you see fit.
My old Asus TF101 had one, my old Asus ZD 300C too: http://www.amazon.co.uk/ASUS-ZenPad...F8&qid=1458037706&sr=8-2&keywords=asus+zd300c
Currently I am using on the Pixel C a Caseflex one (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Caseflex-Bl...&qid=1458037593&sr=8-2&keywords=caseflex+ipad) that I had for an iPad Air 2 (that is now back at Apple), it fits in the hinges, but is about 1.5cm too tall, does not go to sleep when I close it, and the Apple keyboard is weird.
So I am looking for a clamshell keyboard either for the Pixel C (don't think there is one yet), or a universal one for Android. Heck, I barely need the keyboard as such, I'd settle for a stand with a hinge that I can put on my belly/torso then adjust the angle (I've been bedridden for 1.5 months with 2+ to go). A folio type won't work within these constraints.
Are you avoiding the official Portfolio Keyboard for any reason in particular? That or the metal keyboard would most likely fit your requirements and can be bought direct from Google's website:
Metal Keyboard: https://store.google.com/product/pixel_c_keyboard
Folio Case Keyboard: https://store.google.com/product/pixel_c_folio_keyboard
The folio type keyboards, as well as the official one (not exactly folio, more like the logitech one) have many "problems" as far as I'm concerned:
They have 1 or at best 2 angles, compared to anything between 0 and 130+.
I can't imagine lying down and keeping a folio type keyboard properly balanced on my torso/belly, nor rolling on one side without it falling apart
The ones that look like the official one cannot be opened or closed as easily and quickly as a notebook-type clamshell KB
Besides they cost 100€+ more than the clamshell types, which typically go for about 30€. That's way too much money for too much inconvenience.
Fair enough, I just didn't see any reference to the official ones in your opening post so thought I'd suggest it
I use mine for business when I'm sat at a desk so I just USB hub and keyboard it. I have a folio case which keeps it at more-or-less the right angle.
I loved my TF101, if the Pixel C had the dock of the TF101 this would be the perfect device!
I'm reviving this instead of making a new thread. Has anyone found anything yet? I found a bunch on Amazon for the iPad 4 and I noticed that the Pixel C almost has the exact dimensions of the iPad 4.
iPad 4: 241.2 x 185.7 x 9.4 mm
Pixel C: 242 x 179 x 7 mm
I think something like this would be awesome, it would be even better if it had a trackpad, but I rarely use the one on my current bluetooth keyboard anyway.
I have the official Folio keyboard case, but only use it when travelling since it lacks a full keyboard.
Neofit26 said:
The folio type keyboards, as well as the official one (not exactly folio, more like the logitech one) have many "problems" as far as I'm concerned:
They have 1 or at best 2 angles, compared to anything between 0 and 130+....That's way too much money for too much inconvenience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Out of interest have you used or played with the official Metal Keyboard?
If it just costs to much that's fair enough however mine never leaves the tablet now and once you get used to the magnetic snap it is very quick to setup.
It works at pretty much any angle I could want and also due to the solid case will balance the Pixel anywhere.
Much like the situation you describe I do have it lying on me in bed etc.
Lastly it matches the Pixel perfectly and protects the screen although there is obviously no protection to the back of the device etc.
I got the keyboard as I wanted to use it from some work stuff as well however as above I never have them apart as I find it so practical.
Bluetooth issues have been resolved now and the connection I experience is very good.
Let me know if you want to know anything else about it but from owning one for a year or so from release I am very happy with it.
The metal keyboard from google is very nice. The magnetic attachment is VERY strong. There is no way it would ever fall apart when using it to type unless you are really trying to separate it. You could probably drop it on the ground and it would stay together. You can set it at any angle from vertical to flat. Its convenient as you can attach it to the screen like a clamshell or you can attach it to the back of the tablet.
You do need to align the magnetic layout with the top of the keyboard being attached to the bottom of the tablet. It will stick the other way as well but nowhere near as strong. When using it as a clamshell it is small and looks very nice.
I was thinking of picking this one up for when I need to do more typing on my Pixel.
That looked perfect until I realized it wasn't a case and there's no real way to secure the tablet, which scares me since I mostly use it on my lap and not a table.
Volvoash said:
Out of interest have you used or played with the official Metal Keyboard?
If it just costs to much that's fair enough however mine never leaves the tablet now and once you get used to the magnetic snap it is very quick to setup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually have the Folio keyboard but the problem is that it lacks "less frequently used" (escape, ` ~ | \ { } etc...) keys and I partially use my tablet to interface with my Linux server over SSH and not having those keys is a real pain in the butt. To remedy that, I purchased a full-sized bluetooth keyboard with a trough that the tablet sits in, but the problem is that it's not easily portable.
I fear my only hope will be to either wait until someone releases a good spec'd Chromebook with a detachable screen, or buy a Microsoft Surface and remove secure boot now that the key has been leaked (by Microsoft! hahahha) and install either Android x86 or full-blown Linux. The latter would be preferable since the Surface 4 can be a little beast but they also cost over a grand which in the grand scheme of things is only about $400-$500 more than the Pixel and you get a massively more powerful system.
Yeah I get that. I SSH quite a bit and need to | to grep or include items and it means I have to keep pressing the '...' button to bring up the software symbols.
At the end of the day its not my main work device so it suits me fine but I can imagine it being annoying if you try and use it for that.
Although a lot of people think my Pok3r keyboard is stupid but I am now just used to Fn'ing' keys and sometimes find myself trying to do it on my tenkeyless at home
We have shortcuts
Volvoash said:
Yeah I get that. I SSH quite a bit and need to | to grep or include items and it means I have to keep pressing the '...' button to bring up the software symbols.
At the end of the day its not my main work device so it suits me fine but I can imagine it being annoying if you try and use it for that.
Although a lot of people think my Pok3r keyboard is stupid but I am now just used to Fn'ing' keys and sometimes find myself trying to do it on my tenkeyless at home
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any reason you don't use the on keyboard shortcuts? https://support.google.com/pixel/answer/6326992?hl=en
... + O or P for []
... + shift + O or P for {}
... + = for \
... + shift + = for |
... + 2 for `
... + shift + 2 for ~
... + 1 for escape
tyman4444 said:
Any reason you don't use the on keyboard shortcuts? https://support.google.com/pixel/answer/6326992?hl=en
... + O or P for []
... + shift + O or P for {}
... + = for \
... + shift + = for |
... + 2 for `
... + shift + 2 for ~
... + 1 for escape
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Only because when I first looked them up they didn't work on a UK Pixel C keyboard. Logged a call with Google support and they were like, ah well.
And trying them now in Google Keep they don't work for me.
So either there is a setting I'm missing or they only work on a US layout etc
Volvoash said:
Only because when I first looked them up they didn't work on a UK Pixel C keyboard. Logged a call with Google support and they were like, ah well.
And trying them now in Google Keep they don't work for me.
So either there is a setting I'm missing or they only work on a US layout etc
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fair enough. I mean, they aren't as great as real keys anyways. They do not function in some apps, specifically RDP. Pulling up the software keyboard is a pain too.
Related
I know having a bluetooth keyboard for a phone with a physical keyboard seems silly, but for long emails (and really for any typing) I find the physical keyboard to be lacking. It may be that I have small hands, but it is uncomfortable and I can never really get my rhythm with it. Anyway, I have been eyeing this keyboard for a while and finally decided to purchase it. I got the iPad version since it was Prime eligible on Amazon. I purchased it also because I am in the market for a 7" tab and wanted a keyboard of comparable size.
It's a small keyboard, about 8.5" wide. They keys are springy and have a nice feel to them. The pairing was a bit trickier than other phones I have used. I had to do the initial pairing, then select the device in the paired list and hit a key on the keyboard to activate it. It doesn't seem to pull up the on screen keyboard when in use, which was a nice surprise. I had already downloaded nullKeyboard in anticipation of that happening.
EDIT: I am not very observant. It does pull up the on screen keyboard. I don't know how I missed it!!
One downside (although minor) is that it doesn't use a standard USB end. It is something smaller than microUSB. Not a big deal, though it would have been nice not to have another cable to keep up with. I haven't used it enough to give any sort of estimate on battery life, but these sorts of things are usually pretty long lasting.
Link:
http://www.amazon.com/CaseCrown-Por...P8EE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1322545047&sr=8-1
That's a good posting, thank you.
I just ordered a bluetooth keyboard before thanksgiving:
http://www.amazon.com/Verbatim-9753...LT2E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1322557358&sr=8-1
I'll post a review about it when I get it.
I agree with your sentiment about having a physical keyboard.
I want to plug my phone into a TV, then sit back on a couch and play with it, leaving the phone by the TV.
This means Bluetooth keyboard, video game controller, and trackpad.
Have you seen any good trackpapds that are bluetooth? being able to use the touchscreen as a touchscreen by proxy of a trackpad seems like the right answer instead of a mouse.
Blue6IX said:
Have you seen any good trackpapds that are bluetooth? being able to use the touchscreen as a touchscreen by proxy of a trackpad seems like the right answer instead of a mouse.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the one I have also considered:
http://www.amazon.com/Pyramid-Promini-Trackball-Bluetooth-Keyboard/dp/B004S214IS/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1322575241&sr=8-6
Many people have recommended the keyboard that has the large square trackpad beside it, like this http://www.amazon.com/Bluetooth-Keyboard-Symbian-Players-TouchPad/dp/B0042VAXKK/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1322575241&sr=8-14 but the trackpad seems too wide to be able to comfortably type of the keyboard. Seems like you'd have to hold it strange on the right side. I like the first keyboard because the trackball doesn't offset the keyboard by too much.
I've seen that mini-keyboard recommended for the Nook Color.
Thing about it for this phone, though, is it just doesn't seem much different fromthe slide-out keyboard. The trackpad is a nice bonus, but if i'm gonna use a whole new physical keyboard, something like what you got or I ordered seems more worthwhile.
Why strain on tiny little thumb-keys when you can get keys sized for fingers and type normally.
Maybe for another device it would be good - just that mini-keyboard seems like too little gain for too big a hassle. Others may feel different, just my personal thoughts without having one.
I say this, though, and when my keyboard comes in i'll be minus a trackpad, so unable to scroll on the phone and still have to keep it right in front of me - therefore only a partial victory.
I'm really glad to hear that the keyboard you have is working out well for you, I was worried that it would be a pain in the tail to make it work right.
I just got mine in.
Works fantastic, fold up and fits in my cargo pocket of my pants.
Works on two AAA batteries, and I have packs of them just laying around thankfully, though I can't imagine it goes through them fast since it has an off switch.
Pairing was simple and easy, subsequent reconnects are seamless.
I like it, happy customer. Now have a keyboard that goes with my phone that outputs to a larger monitor.
Blue6IX said:
I just got mine in.
Works fantastic, fold up and fits in my cargo pocket of my pants.
Works on two AAA batteries, and I have packs of them just laying around thankfully, though I can't imagine it goes through them fast since it has an off switch.
Pairing was simple and easy, subsequent reconnects are seamless.
I like it, happy customer. Now have a keyboard that goes with my phone that outputs to a larger monitor.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know why I didn't consider a fold up keyboard! So much more handy and easy to tote about. Thanks for the recommendation. I may just have to pick one up (I have a thing for keyboards ...)
geek_riot said:
I don't know why I didn't consider a fold up keyboard! So much more handy and easy to tote about. Thanks for the recommendation. I may just have to pick one up (I have a thing for keyboards ...)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, if you got a thing for keyboards, let me explain this one a bit more now that i've had it for a day.
It rocks. It's nice to type on, the keys are flat like a laptop. It integrates with android well, haven't had any problems in using it.
It has a little stand that pops out of the back of it, which I can use to support the phone right behind it - very handy.
It folds in half and slips in a case that fits in my cargo pocket - happy. Smaller then my Nook Color when folded, pictured below.
I attached a handful of pictures to give an idea of the size and how it looks.
On each side it has 4 little rubber feet, so when it's folded open it balances on 8 points that don't slide - perfect!
Runs on two AAA batteries, - the only thing is you have to press a recessed button for initial pairing, so you need a tool or something. ( I used a pair of tweezers).
Pictures below:
Do you think that stand would hold a 7" tablet?
Thanks!
Kim
I am quite sure that my Nook Color with the Trident case would break the stand.
It may not, but it sure wouldn't hold it right - it's pretty flimsy.
Fine for the phone, but anything beyond that is asking too much.
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
Click to expand...
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.
Can anyone recommend a decent bluetooth keyboard? I would like one that would also work with other machines such as a windows laptop (I am just future proofing a bit here!)
Thanks.
astromark said:
Can anyone recommend a decent bluetooth keyboard? I would like one that would also work with other machines such as a windows laptop (I am just future proofing a bit here!)
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the Motorola Keyboard and use it between the desktop and Xoom all the time. Really convenient with the volume buttons and such (as they both work for windows and the Xoom).
hipstreet keyboard/case combo is pretty nice. feels secure and the screen props at a nice angle. pretty much makes it feel like a touchscreen laptop
Sent from my Xoom using xda premium
Bought the Moto keyboard for $40 a couple of weeks ago and they threw in a mouse. Can't beat the deal and it's a very solid keyboard. Bit plasticky in build in comparison to some others I've used (and the Xoom itself) but it seems like it should hold up to daily abuse just fine.
Acer has a nice compact Android specific keyboard as well. I have both the Acer and the Motorola and like the Acer for it's size, build and typing feel better than the Moto.
Motorola keyboard is good.
Thanks all. I've ordered the moto one. It should arrive tomorrow. It'll sure beat typing on screen.
My Motorola keyboard arrived the other day. It's well-built although the layout of some of the keys takes a little getting used to. Quite why the forward apostrophe ' and the backwards one ` are where they are I don't know, as they're the wrong way round.
And it`s (see) a British layout, with the pound sterling symbol above the 3, but ICS is refusing to play ball and pressing that gives me #. Pressing quote gives me @ and pressing rats-tail at gives me "
I know there is a separate thread about this; I assume it`s (there it is again, wrong!) because I have the US ICS ROM.
It's also a bigger keyboard than I had expected, but it is at least easy to type on.
But right now I just kind of wish I had got a standard Windows keyboard, at least I know instinctively where the keys are on that.
The media and Android keys are useful, but on the wifi XOOM, ones like MMS/text are useless - the ability to redefine their action would be useful.
And anyone know what the three horizontal lines key, next to END, is supposed to do?
This has received terrible reviews, but I do like its form factor:
http://www.amazon.com/TOP®-Bluetoot...-3&keywords=bluetooth\+keyboard+for+galaxy+s5
Anybody use anything else?
Jake
jakfish said:
This has received terrible reviews, but I do like its form factor:
http://www.amazon.com/TOP®-Bluetoot...-3&keywords=bluetooth\+keyboard+for+galaxy+s5
Anybody use anything else?
Jake
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know - the reviews aren't worth their time for the product. the description of the product itself is clearly ESL which doesn't build confidence about the budget they had in making this thing. However two of the 3 critical reviews are either irrelevant (doesn't fit his note 3... ) or unreliable. The one that specifies criticisms has such poor grammar as to be undecipherable in some places, but does point out the bulk and possibly poor hardware design of the case. I don't expect this thing to be thin, but it's ridiculous that the description and specs don't mention the actual SIZE of the product. It's weight is more than 10 oz though which is getting up there.... worrying for sure.
However the same reviewer also comments that the text you type is "perpendicular"... presumably he isn't aware of how to choose apps that can work in landscape or know enough about his phone to know how to enable rotation. So all in all we have one clear negative which is the bulk of the product.
I don't want a bulky keyboard/case either, but it may be a requisite since at least this keyboard has real buttons.
I wish people would talk about the keyboard feel/action (is it actually possible to type on (Despite the misaligned qwerty layout) or is it too hard to press fast... stuff like that).
I also wish the real dimensions were published.
So I do agree with you - I want something like that but with at least enough information to be worth spending $50 or more to get (After taxes/shipping/exchange rate etc as I'm in Canada). No way I'm throwing away that much money unless I know it's worth it.
For big bucks there is that new laser keyboard they keep promoting before movies in theatres LoL.... but (a) I expect it's super expensive and hard to find, and (b) can you imagine typing on anything LESS responsive than just a desktop surface without being able to feel key edges or motion??
Anyhow.... ideas would be welcome here.
---------- Post added at 12:51 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:48 PM ----------
ya know, honestly I'd rather have an unfold able bluetooth keyboard that reaches near full size and has decent action that I can put in my other pocket than deal with a crappy keyboard case only to have such a small keyboard as to be only marginally better than typing on the phone itself.
so a foldable full size qwerty keyboard that gets really small and thin for pocket carrying sounds ideal.
Is there such a thing (that doesn't cost $500)?
http://www.cellphoneshop.net/s5btokey.html
I ended up rolling the dice on this--it was 20usd/free shipping. Worth a look-see. And I think it's the same one so extravagantly priced on Amazon. It's on a slow boat from China, so fingers crossed. While waiting, I also went ahead and purchased/installed "External Keyboard Help Pro," an amazing app that allows full key/character customization of a bt keyboard. I set up the layout on a Ipad bt keyboard, but since the coding is unicode rather than hardcode, I'm hoping the layout/keystrokes will transfer successfully to the arriving mini keyboard.
I had forgotten the laser keyboard, but I'm with you: how good could can the form factor be?
If this thing ever gets here, I'll certainly post back my impressions. I do see that same keyboard kicking around on ebay for under 20usd, sans case, but I don't know if such ubiquity is good or bad.
Thanks for your thoughtful post,
Jake
I've had a bluetooth keyboard for probably 18 months now... Got it on special for 5.99 GBP, made by Xenta.. It is not attached to the phone but I keep it in my work rucksack, along with a bluetooth mouse. The only downside about it for me is that the buttons are rubberised. IF the buttons were more like a blackberry this keyboard would be ace - but you do need to sit the phone somewhere so you can type using the keyboard. A plus is that I can use this keyboard with any device that accepts bluetooth keyboards, hence it has been paired with my HTC One X+, Samsung Note 3 and S5.
6 Pounds - can't go wrong.
Here's a better one that says it has a mouse feature built in. http://www.ebuyer.com/247588-xenta-...keyboard-with-mouse-touchpad-2-4ghz-rf240-50k
Rubberized keys seem to be a complaint about other brands of keyboards as well--it must be the cheapest way to make them sell for 6 Pounds
My en route keyboard is also rubberized. Should be an adventure in qwerty.
The mousepad from your link's model draws complaints--I had a vague little optical mousepad on my Sidekick 4G that would freak out in sunlight. It's hard to make these things both cheap and good.
I'm most interested in whether the contraption will a) fit in a front pocket of jeans b) be useful as a phone when it sits in the case
Jake
This is why OEMs should look into hardware keyboards again. This is what made the original G1 great.
Sent from my toaster
The keyboard/case arrived and for 20 bucks, I have no complaints. It paired right away and afterwards, when bt is enabled on the S5 and the keyboard is turned on, it connects fast and without problem.
As for the keyboard itself, it ain't no HP Jornada 720 or any other handheld computer. The keys are rubberized and own a certain mushiness and obviously, it's a smaller layout than any h/pc.
If this analogy rings a bell with anybody, I would compare usability to the Psion Revo keyboard. The tactile sense b/w the two is literally hard and soft, but their sizes are similar and the typing vs mistakes is roughly equal for both the Psion and this.
The phone casement is velcro-ed and to enable a quasi laptop mode, you loosen the phone's bottom half to set it at a slight angle.
The External Keyboard Helper Pro saves the day: I programmed a second Shift key, key-mapped many punctuation alternatives (mostly smart quotes, etc), key-stroked apps (e.g. alt-w = word processor). Everything was done without root.
You can tell by its thickness that the case/keyboard/phone will not fit into a jeans' front pocket, which is where I like to carry my S5. I would imagine it would fit into the front pocket of dress pants, but noticeably so.
Wish me luck posting these pictures,
Jake
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.
Post content cannot be empty. Please try again. (ok, now it's not empty, that was useful...)
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.
Click to expand...
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
Click to expand...
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
Click to expand...
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.
Click to expand...
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.