MS Surface-style keyboard - Nexus 7 Accessories

Anyone know if there are any manufacturers out there who are in the process of creating a Microsoft Surface style keyboard for the Nexus 7? I'm looking for something with as thin a profile as possible.. preferably, it would replace the Poetic smart cover case I have now. I hate bulk.

Nope, but it would be nice to have if they work well.

Nobody will ever make a cover like that for a 7" tablet because it would suck. Nobody over the age of 15 have hands small enough to operate a keyboard the width of a Nexus 7 with any efficiency and if its not an efficient means of input its a waste of money.

What rot! we use the onscreen keyboard easily enough though it's not the best thing and a physical keyboard is bound to be better especially if it's well made.

Troute said:
What rot! we use the onscreen keyboard easily enough though it's not the best thing and a physical keyboard is bound to be better especially if it's well made.
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we use the onscreen keyboard with thumbs or one hand. are you going to use a physical keyboard with thumbs or one hand? even if you are willing i can not see a large enough group willing to do that for a company to spend the money in developing that small of a keyboard. especially a well made keyboard

I'm over the age of 15 and I've got tiny hands. Wish there was some kind of surface-like keyboard available, because I'd certainly make use of it.
Too bad the small-handed market isn't bigger, because nobody ever makes things with us in mind. Trying to find adult gloves that fit is a nightmare!

...

JediMasterASD said:
Nobody will ever make a cover like that for a 7" tablet because it would suck. Nobody over the age of 15 have hands small enough to operate a keyboard the width of a Nexus 7 with any efficiency and if its not an efficient means of input its a waste of money.
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Lol guess the we aren't using the on screen keyboards then cause of the size
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2

BrianDigital said:
Lol guess the we aren't using the on screen keyboards then cause of the size
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
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I just placed my N7 up to my keyboard and all the letters would fit, I tiny bit of resizing would be needed to fit in punctuation but a good design could definately be practical at this size.

..

I've used this with another tablet- it was perfectly serviceable, if a bit bulky. So it's completely doable, and the "no one will ever make a cover like that because it would suck" comment made me smile.

The comments that it would be too small for anyone to use tend to irritate me too. People claimed the galaxy note and even many of the original 4" androids were too big to operate one-handed and that they would suck as phones. Yet even with a 5.3" screen the note is can be used one-handed fairly easily. It isn't as comfortable to do so as a 4.3-4.7" range phone but it is still perfectly functional.
The same goes for keyboards on 7" tablets. They aren't as comfortable as full sized ones but they are still very convenient at times and add to the functionality of the tablet. I had a similar cover to Radon_22 for my original galaxy tab and found it very useful. I'm a former competitive heavyweight judoka and powerlifter so I don't exactly have small gentle hands yet it only took a few days of practice for me to adjust to typing on a small keyboard. I've also used some of the older Japanese produced 5-7" UMPC's and they were fine for me with some practice. I had to modify my touch typing style but once I adjusted my typing speed for documents was much better than on the on-screen keyboard. The main issue I had with the keyboard was the bulk it added; I only needed the keyboard in specific situations (documents, note taking, gaming) and being a cheap product the leather case and rubber keys were quite bulky. Secondly the quality and responsiveness of the keys was an issue; I've played around with the xperia tablet's surface-style capacitive keyboard cover and it performed far better than my old tab case.
One final point regarding the size; A lot of people actually do type on the nexus 7 in landscape mode which is far smaller than a 7" physical keyboard. I find thumb typing in portrait to be the most comfortable and accurate but during meetings I often find myself taking notes in landscape mode and I can actually type quite fast like that. The main issue is mi****ting keys (especially delete and the spacebar) during touch typing which is an issue with 10" tablets too. Having a compact physical keyboard that is always on the tablet would be a huge benefit for my work.

Radon_22 said:
I've used this with another tablet- it was perfectly serviceable, if a bit bulky. So it's completely doable, and the "no one will ever make a cover like that because it would suck" comment made me smile.
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That's the Minisuit Nexus 7 model. Available on Amazon for $30 with free shipping (prime). They also make the model that was referred to as the "Aluminum" one.
May try it.
http://www.amazon.com/MiniSuit-Blue...972424&sr=1-2&keywords=minisuit+keyboard+case

I have never had any problem using the on-screen keyboard on my Nexus 7 in landscape mode. In any case the fact that surface-style keyboard would effectively make use of the same area as the entire Nexus 7 screen would surely make it even more usable!
I would love a surface-style keyboard :good:

Melarsa said:
I'm over the age of 15 and I've got tiny hands. Wish there was some kind of surface-like keyboard available, because I'd certainly make use of it.
Too bad the small-handed market isn't bigger, because nobody ever makes things with us in mind. Trying to find adult gloves that fit is a nightmare!
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I don't really know what is meant by a "Surface style keyboard". But if all you are looking for is a "pocket size" keyboard, there are plenty of them on eBay.

lewmur said:
I don't really know what is meant by a "Surface style keyboard". But if all you are looking for is a "pocket size" keyboard, there are plenty of them on eBay.
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I believe the idea is a keyboard with flat keys so that it can flip over and serve as a cover for the tablet.

This comes close but only for the iPad just now. http://www.logitech.com/en-gb/product/fabricskin-keyboard-folio

Troute said:
This comes close but only for the iPad just now. http://www.logitech.com/en-gb/product/fabricskin-keyboard-folio
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That is pretty nice.
I think ultimately, the issue comes down to size. I've got the aluminum style keyboard/cover for my Nexus 7 now, and while it works somewhat well, I will never be able to type as fast on it as I do on a regular sized-keyboard. Manufacturers are aware of this, so there's not much of an initiative to design a flat-style keyboard for the 7" tablet market.. this is the best option for a mobile, full-sized keyboard: http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Bluetooth-Compact-Wireless-Keyboard/dp/B005SIKYUK

That's a windows keyboard though. Logitech also make a similar one and there's a Motorola keyboard around that's the same and pretty cheap on eBay.

Related

USB keyboard for Nexus 7

Since we've only had our tablets for a short time, I might be a little premature in asking but has anyone used any of these USB keyboards with the N7? If so, if the tablet is placed on the stand in portrait mode, does the cable reach the USB port? I assume they're not full-travel keys but do people find them ok for touch typing? Do any of them suck the battery or are they usable for hours at a time?
Does anyone have any recommendations for better keyboards?
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Afunta-Tabl...2OF4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1343181250&sr=8-1
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Leather-Key...XMEO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1343181250&sr=8-2
http://www.amazon.co.uk/HDE-Tablet-...0EBQ/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1343181250&sr=8-5
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Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Not trying to burst your bubble, but i don't think any of those will work with N7. When getting keyboards, I would go for name brand items because you don't want a laggy keyboard. If I were you I would get one of the following:
http://www.amazon.com/Targus-Univer...768&sr=8-12&keywords=bluetooth+keyboard+stand
(This is what i purchased ---->) http://www.amazon.com/ZAGG-FOLZKFLE...183895&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=zagg+keys+flex
(There's a review on this keyboard on this forum. You can get this on eBay for $30) http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Tabl...5&sr=1-2&keywords=logitech+bluetooth+keyboard
I hope i helped. The problem with cheap keyboard cases is that a lot of times they don't work. Sometimes you get what you pay for.
EDIT:
YAY 100th POST!!!
Nxxx said:
Not trying to burst your bubble, but i don't think any of those will work with N7. When getting keyboards, I would go for name brand items because you don't want a laggy keyboard.
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I think the cases he linked actually would work -- I have one that looks identical, and is indeed functional, though the Nexus tends to slide out the sides of the case.
However, I think you are right; you DO get what you pay for. The keys are bit mushy and so on, the case is huge, etc. Hey, for the price, it might be worth it, though I wouldn't recommend it. I don't have any regrets either, though.
Have a few questions on keyboards I hope someone can help with.
On the Logitech Tablet Keyboard for Android. Logitech's website is quite clear that the iPad version is incompatible with the Android version. Has anyone tried? The Android one isn't too easy to get in the UK (well not reasonably priced) but the iPad one is.
Any first hand experience of the Logitech versus the Motorola Xoom keyboard? I like the Logitech case/stand thingy but past that both keyboards are the same size so which is better?
And back to the Logitech, any recommended UK suppliers?
Jelster said:
Have a few questions on keyboards I hope someone can help with.
On the Logitech Tablet Keyboard for Android. Logitech's website is quite clear that the iPad version is incompatible with the Android version. Has anyone tried? The Android one isn't too easy to get in the UK (well not reasonably priced) but the iPad one is.
Any first hand experience of the Logitech versus the Motorola Xoom keyboard? I like the Logitech case/stand thingy but past that both keyboards are the same size so which is better?
And back to the Logitech, any recommended UK suppliers?
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Click to collapse
I'm in the same boat - was looking to get an Asus Pad Infinity upon release, but tempted by the Nexus 7 + Logitech combo instead.
Now I'd just need to secure the keyboard in the UK and I'm good to go...!
Jelster said:
Have a few questions on keyboards I hope someone can help with.
On the Logitech Tablet Keyboard for Android. Logitech's website is quite clear that the iPad version is incompatible with the Android version. Has anyone tried? The Android one isn't too easy to get in the UK (well not reasonably priced) but the iPad one is.
And back to the Logitech, any recommended UK suppliers?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
I ideally want a keyboard/case combo but everything seems to have too small a keyboard for my liking (I put it down to the size of the Nexus 7). I have seen the Logitech stuff mentioned a few times and I am interested in it although I haven't found anything online. I've been using Logitech computer accessories for years (mouse/keyboard/speakers etc) and I'm always impressed with the build quality and performance. I have an unfortunate habit of not buying cheaper accessories as now I can afford better products and I have experienced the "buy cheap, buy twice" too many times to warrant shelling out £15-£20 on a case that doesn't fit properly or has sub standard build quality. After all, I'm going to be putting a £200 tablet in it.
Nxxx said:
Not trying to burst your bubble, but i don't think any of those will work with N7. When getting keyboards, I would go for name brand items because you don't want a laggy keyboard. If I were you I would get one of the following:
YAY 100th POST!!!
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Click to collapse
I would guess none of the keyboards the OP linked would cause any lag at all, since they are all attached to the tablet via USB/OTB
the ones that you link are bluetooth keyboards, which vary in performance greatly.
(The OP here...)
I'd go with the Logitech if there wasn't any lag. I expect a powered BT keyboard would use less of the N7's battery than a USB one. And though the BT keyboard's battery would only last a few hours, I'm sure that would suffice for my use case.
I'd be surprised if Logitech don't bring this keyboard to the UK. They'd miss a lot of sales, IMO.
--
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Nxxx said:
Not trying to burst your bubble, but i don't think any of those will work with N7. When getting keyboards, I would go for name brand items because you don't want a laggy keyboard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
actually, they all work. ive got one of them, and it works fine.
pretty much any usb keyboard will work. my thermaltake meka g unit with its cherry black mechanical switches works fine, as does my ducky shine with cherry red mechanical switches and full led backlit powered from the nexus 7 via usb. no notable lag, they all work as expected.
You don't have to buy a keyboard case to get a nice USB keyboard for the tablet. Just about any USB keyboard will work fine as long as you have a USB OTG cable.
That said I also have the Logitech Bluetooth keyboard, and it's one of the best slim keyboards, tablet or otherwise, that I have used. I haven't seen any lag so far, though if you sit really far away from the tablet I suppose you could introduce some signal issues. Usually if your keyboard is lagging, it's either a software issue or the batteries are going dead.
The Logitech keyboard seems pretty nice, but isn't it a bit large for pairing with a 7" tab?
joamiq said:
The Logitech keyboard seems pretty nice, but isn't it a bit large for pairing with a 7" tab?
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You wouldn't want a 7" keyboard to go with it, trust me. It does look a little awkward at first to have the keyboard wider than the tablet in landscape, but no more awkward than the promotional photos of the iPad and its portrait keyboard dock.
I used to have an Asus TF101, and even as a 10" tab the keyboard dock was really cramped, and the keys were about 10% smaller than normal so that they would fit. With the Logitech keyboard you get full size keys, so it feels more natural to type on.
earlyberd said:
You wouldn't want a 7" keyboard to go with it, trust me. It does look a little awkward at first to have the keyboard wider than the tablet in landscape, but no more awkward than the promotional photos of the iPad and its portrait keyboard dock.
I used to have an Asus TF101, and even as a 10" tab the keyboard dock was really cramped, and the keys were about 10% smaller than normal so that they would fit. With the Logitech keyboard you get full size keys, so it feels more natural to type on.
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Click to collapse
Yeah, a 7" keyboard would probably be too small to be useful. The Zagg keyboard though looks like it might be a nice compromise. I'm leaning towards that one, as it seems small enough to stick into a large pocket and to fit on, say, an airplane tray table if needed, but big enough that you could type on it for a little while before it got uncomfortable. How portable would you say the Logitech one is?
joamiq said:
Yeah, a 7" keyboard would probably be too small to be useful. The Zagg keyboard though looks like it might be a nice compromise. I'm leaning towards that one, as it seems small enough to stick into a large pocket and to fit on, say, an airplane tray table if needed, but big enough that you could type on it for a little while before it got uncomfortable. How portable would you say the Logitech one is?
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I'd say it's portable enough for most people. It's about the same dimensions as the Zagg keyboard. If you have a full size keyboard somewhere nearby, you can do a good comparison by just measuring the width from the left edge of the left Shift key to the right edge of the right Shift key. That's how wide the Logitech keyboard is, and it's about the same height from the bottom of the space bar to the top of the Function keys on standard keyboards.

Best on the go keyboard case duo

I already bought my Poetic Hardback and I'm pretty impressed, so I'm feeling less reluctant about buying 3rd party cased.
Has anyone gotten a case with a built in / removable keyboard?
It looks like the keyboard on these 4 are exactly the same. Only the case may be different. My only concern with the keyboard is that in a review someone noted that there's F1-12 keys that don't do anything unless you hold down fn -- seems like bad design.
These seem to be the top keyboard cases for the Nexus 10:
Poetic
KHOMO
Ionic
MoKo
Ionic and MoKo look pretty much the same. They seem superior to the Poetic in that they don't cover the Notification LED. And the KHOM seems the most different with its swivel.
Anyone have experience with any of them? Or see other differences?
Bump.. anyone have experience with any of these??
Khomo Keyboard Case
Royal2000H said:
Bump.. anyone have experience with any of these??
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Click to collapse
I purchased the Khomo keyboard case and I was going to return it. They actually gave it to me half off to review it so it cost me like $17. I can tell you the build quality is pretty nice along with its look but, it has some stability issues. The keyboard was terrible since I had already purchased the zagg flex keyboard/stand. After using zaggs keyboard the khomo keyboard pales in comparison to the functionality of what the zagg keyboard offers. These are tablets not laptops and the keyboard should be designed with that in mind. The screen on/off function works as it is supposed to when closed and opened. Also I noticed that it was hard to close fully. The magnetic area had to be pulled tightly to align with the other magnets for it to close securely. It closes easily without the nexus 10 inside but with it the added depth just causes it to take a little more effort than what should be needed to fully close it. The keyboard is removable and bluetooth connectivity worked as it should with no issues. I guess it may be a good deal for some but after using the Zagg Flex Keyboard I would easily recommend it even without it being a case over the Khomo. I got the Zagg for $37 and made a thread a while back of where to find it if still available at that price. If requested I can still upload the first reaction video I made of it to youtube.
Also rotation to portrait is iffy because you cannot get it in a position I would deem useful. If I want portrait I pretty much want it standin straight not at an angle. Videos are uploading though for those who may want to look at it. Thanks to Khomo for the discount and support them. They may produce better designs after a few drafts.
Thanks momulah.. it seems like the khomo has the same removable keyboard as the 3 other ones I linked.
What problems are you having with the keyboard? Just the F keys or are there other issues?
Which ZAGG keyboard by the way? It seems like they have several, ranging from $70-$100+ and they look possibly less portable?
I just received my poetic dual case and the quality is quite excellent. The leather looks nice and the tablet fits snuggly. Keys also feel pretty good.
Unfortunately, I'll likely be returning this and looking for something just slightly better. There are two big problems. The first of which you've mentioned before: there are android function keys but they are hidden underneath F1-12 and you have to press the FN key in conjunction to access the Android function keys. Since this is supposedely designed specifically for the Nexus 10 I find this to be a huge oversight. The biggest issue, however, is that the right shift key is moved away from the keyboard separated by both the 'end' and up arrow key. I have no idea why this was done seeing as the left shift is where it should be bordering the 'z' key. I've attached an image below. Perhaps given some more time I could get used to it (in fact, I'm already naturally using left shift exclusively while typing this post). I want to like this case; for the price it's simply phenomenal. Very sturdy, setup and connection was a breeze and it looks good. I'll report back in a few more days.
Edit: there is also another awkward keyboard layout problem. The home key is wedged in between the main keyboard and enter key. It appears that the manufacturer tried to squeeze a full sized keyboard into the dimensions of the tablet and made some...questionable design choices.
Sent from my Nexus 10 using xda app-developers app
Royal2000H said:
I already bought my Poetic Hardback and I'm pretty impressed, so I'm feeling less reluctant about buying 3rd party cased.
Has anyone gotten a case with a built in / removable keyboard?
It looks like the keyboard on these 4 are exactly the same. Only the case may be different. My only concern with the keyboard is that in a review someone noted that there's F1-12 keys that don't do anything unless you hold down fn -- seems like bad design.
These seem to be the top keyboard cases for the Nexus 10:
Poetic
KHOMO
Ionic
MoKo
Ionic and MoKo look pretty much the same. They seem superior to the Poetic in that they don't cover the Notification LED. And the KHOM seems the most different with its swivel.
Anyone have experience with any of them? Or see other differences?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the... um, haha wow, it really is hard to tell, but I believe I have the Moko case. I was going to say Poetic, but my notification LED definitely isn't blocked. Although I'm not too disappointed with it, I wouldn't order it again; not only does it add bulk (which I anticipated, and doesn't bother me too much), but it adds significant weight, and gives it an unwieldy feel. How are you supposed to read books/current/magazines with the case? You find yourself pressing the keys when you swing it around to the back. Fortunately, the keyboard is incredibly easy to pull on and off (this is the saving grace, otherwise I would have returned mine), but the case feels a little.. "off" without the keyboard.
It offers decent protection, and the keyboard is acceptable. When you're sitting at a desk, or lying down with the keyboard on your stomach and the case stand is holding up the N10 on a nearby table, it's pretty nice, although the omission of a mouse means you still need to poke at the screen or pair a mouse through a USB OTG adapter (there is probably an easier way, but I haven't figured it out yet). However, for me, those situations are outnumbered by the times I want to use it sitting on a bench, bus, metro, standing, reading in bed, etc.
If I were to buy another case, I would go for the best slim case available. I think my ideal case would be something like a gel case with a simple "flap" screen protector and a plastic kickstand molded into the back of the gel case. That's enough protection for me to feel comfortable putting it into my messenger bag without worrying too much about scrapes.
I would then buy a nice bluetooth keyboard, preferably one that is somewhat compact, but I would sooner get a quality, bulky keyboard than a flimsy and cheap but portable keyboard. In fact, I recently saw one at Best Buy that looked PERFECT... here, it's this: logitech K400. Two in one is so convenient, and IME, Logitech typically makes good products, so that's definitely the keyboard I would get... N10 plugged into a TV and that keyboard would be like a pseudo Google TV!
Anyway, even with all that said, I'm happy enough with the case that I'm keeping it. It's a good price for bluetooth keyboard, okay case, and it fits together nicely. I suggest thinking about how you use your nexus 10, and if the pseudo-netbook form factor makes sense for you, then I would suggest the Moko without reservation. If not, consider going for your favorite case and your favorite bluetooth keyboard separately.
A request: if you get the k400 keyboard, PM me and let me know if it's as good as I thought!
Komodo Rogue;36292779
[.. said:
I would then buy a nice bluetooth keyboard, preferably one that is somewhat compact, but I would sooner get a quality, bulky keyboard than a flimsy and cheap but portable keyboard. In fact, I recently saw one at Best Buy that looked PERFECT... here, it's this: . Two in one is so convenient, and IME, Logitech typically makes good products, so that's definitely the keyboard I would get... N10 plugged into a TV and that keyboard would be like a pseudo Google TV!
[..]
Hi there,
I would recomment looking for a real bluetooth keyboard, like logitech k810 amazon DOT com/Logitech-Bluetooth-Illuminated-Keyboard-Smartphones/dp/B0099SMFVQ
As it's my first post, i cannot link outside xda..
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hphp67 said:
Komodo Rogue;36292779
[.. said:
I would then buy a nice bluetooth keyboard, preferably one that is somewhat compact, but I would sooner get a quality, bulky keyboard than a flimsy and cheap but portable keyboard. In fact, I recently saw one at Best Buy that looked PERFECT... here, it's this: . Two in one is so convenient, and IME, Logitech typically makes good products, so that's definitely the keyboard I would get... N10 plugged into a TV and that keyboard would be like a pseudo Google TV!
[..]
Hi there,
I would recomment looking for a real bluetooth keyboard, like logitech k810 amazon DOT com/Logitech-Bluetooth-Illuminated-Keyboard-Smartphones/dp/B0099SMFVQ
As it's my first post, i cannot link outside xda..
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here's a link to a review, the first link on google when I searched for k810: PC mag review
They gave it a great review, thanks for the suggestion It looks really nice, I personally love chiclet keys, and illuminated keys make a big difference.
But still, I feel like having mouse input would be incredibly helpful, especially if it supports gestures.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Komodo Rogue said:
I have the... um, haha wow, it really is hard to tell, but I believe I have the Moko case. I was going to say Poetic, but my notification LED definitely isn't blocked. Although I'm not too disappointed with it, I wouldn't order it again; not only does it add bulk (which I anticipated, and doesn't bother me too much), but it adds significant weight, and gives it an unwieldy feel. How are you supposed to read books/current/magazines with the case? You find yourself pressing the keys when you swing it around to the back. Fortunately, the keyboard is incredibly easy to pull on and off (this is the saving grace, otherwise I would have returned mine), but the case feels a little.. "off" without the keyboard.
It offers decent protection, and the keyboard is acceptable. When you're sitting at a desk, or lying down with the keyboard on your stomach and the case stand is holding up the N10 on a nearby table, it's pretty nice, although the omission of a mouse means you still need to poke at the screen or pair a mouse through a USB OTG adapter (there is probably an easier way, but I haven't figured it out yet). However, for me, those situations are outnumbered by the times I want to use it sitting on a bench, bus, metro, standing, reading in bed, etc.
If I were to buy another case, I would go for the best slim case available. I think my ideal case would be something like a gel case with a simple "flap" screen protector and a plastic kickstand molded into the back of the gel case. That's enough protection for me to feel comfortable putting it into my messenger bag without worrying too much about scrapes.
I would then buy a nice bluetooth keyboard, preferably one that is somewhat compact, but I would sooner get a quality, bulky keyboard than a flimsy and cheap but portable keyboard. In fact, I recently saw one at Best Buy that looked PERFECT... here, it's this: logitech K400. Two in one is so convenient, and IME, Logitech typically makes good products, so that's definitely the keyboard I would get... N10 plugged into a TV and that keyboard would be like a pseudo Google TV!
Anyway, even with all that said, I'm happy enough with the case that I'm keeping it. It's a good price for bluetooth keyboard, okay case, and it fits together nicely. I suggest thinking about how you use your nexus 10, and if the pseudo-netbook form factor makes sense for you, then I would suggest the Moko without reservation. If not, consider going for your favorite case and your favorite bluetooth keyboard separately.
A request: if you get the k400 keyboard, PM me and let me know if it's as good as I thought!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Also been thinking of the K400 but the problem with it is that it uses Logitech Unifying, which means you have to use an OTG cable to connect the adapter to. Personally I don't want that dangling around everytime I want to use the keyboard.
tct08 said:
I just received my poetic dual case and the quality is quite excellent. The leather looks nice and the tablet fits snuggly. Keys also feel pretty good.
Unfortunately, I'll likely be returning this and looking for something just slightly better. There are two big problems. The first of which you've mentioned before: there are android function keys but they are hidden underneath F1-12 and you have to press the FN key in conjunction to access the Android function keys. Since this is supposedely designed specifically for the Nexus 10 I find this to be a huge oversight. The biggest issue, however, is that the right shift key is moved away from the keyboard separated by both the 'end' and up arrow key. I have no idea why this was done seeing as the left shift is where it should be bordering the 'z' key. I've attached an image below. Perhaps given some more time I could get used to it (in fact, I'm already naturally using left shift exclusively while typing this post). I want to like this case; for the price it's simply phenomenal. Very sturdy, setup and connection was a breeze and it looks good. I'll report back in a few more days.
Edit: there is also another awkward keyboard layout problem. The home key is wedged in between the main keyboard and enter key. It appears that the manufacturer tried to squeeze a full sized keyboard into the dimensions of the tablet and made some...questionable design choices.
Sent from my Nexus 10 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your post!
Interestingly enough, your Poetic case looks like it has a small hole for the notification light. Maybe the Amazon picture is wrong.
I rarely (if ever) use the right shift key, so that's not an issue for me. But the squeezing of the home key to the left of the enter key is really an odd design decision! I use Home & End a lot on my laptop, so it's nice that the keyboard includes them (usually they're first to be left off!) but the placement is indeed questionable.
Clearly it's a generic keyboard due to the odd F key layout. Who needs F1-12 keys on an Android-specific keyboard? I just wonder if there's a way to hack the firmware or maybe even something on the tablet side to reverse the need to press the Fn key. Seems like it would be a nice project, but I'm not sure I have the time for it.
@Komodo - I agree that all keyboard cases are going to be bulkier. I do already have a normal case, so I think I would just switch off between keyboard case and the normal one depending on my needs for that day. So that being said, for my uses, a slim/portable keyboard is more useful.
CazeW said:
Also been thinking of the K400 but the problem with it is that it uses Logitech Unifying, which means you have to use an OTG cable to connect the adapter to. Personally I don't want that dangling around everytime I want to use the keyboard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the K400. It works with the Nexus 10 & 7 and HTC Rezound & DNA. But I bought it for my laptop when doubling as a HTPC.
I don't see the point in a touch pad. far easier to touch the screen, I prefer a mouse over touchpad too.
I just ordered the iHome Universal Bluetooth Keyboard then I can have the option to use an usb sd card or a mouse simultaneously. I think staying with bluetooth is a better way to go.
Use code A4C5OFF and standard shipping, $2, for a $24.75 out the door price.
For me, a keyboard is a seldom used item with a tablet. It was hard to find reviews for it but at more than half the price of the logitech android keyboard, why not?
I wonder if this app https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.apedroid.hwkeyboardhelper will solve the problem with having to press fn + function-key to use the android specific keys?
It was recommended for a different keyboard in another thread. Anyone with the khomo/poetic/etc keyboard able to test? The app description said there is a demo too.
Icyman said:
I have the K400. It works with the Nexus 10 & 7 and HTC Rezound & DNA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How did you get it to work with Nexus 10? I bought an OTG-cable-adapter but it does not work. I tried a G11, which works perfectly. And I checked it on my desktop (Win 7), where it works. So there should be an issue with either the Nexus or Android itself. Do I need root and a custom rom?
Was anyone able to try the app to see if it can improve the keyboard?
Maybe momulah or tct08 or Komodo Rogue ?
c-f-g said:
How did you get it to work with Nexus 10? I bought an OTG-cable-adapter but it does not work. I tried a G11, which works perfectly. And I checked it on my desktop (Win 7), where it works. So there should be an issue with either the Nexus or Android itself. Do I need root and a custom rom?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've read that the K400 keyboard is supported by version 4.3 and later.

Elecom Bluetooth full sized folding keyboard

Particularly the TK-FBP018. Any of the other models typically wont be able to pair with Android due to Apple's craptastic Bluetooth certification practices. If you grab one of these off of ebay, make sure you message the seller ahead of time and confirm the model number, I've screwed myself over once by receiving the iOS only version already. You can find them for around $130 USD.
http://www2.elecom.co.jp/peripheral/full-keyboard/tk-fbp018/index.asp
Generally the keyboard works great. The key button hinge design is taken after Thinkpads (which I love). The keys are about the same size as a normal sized laptop keyboard, and for the most part nothing feels cramped. The thing folds down pretty small (only a little bigger than the Note's footprint). Haven't really used it enough yet to drain the batteries.
The built in detachable phone stand is really only made for phone sized phones. I can stand up my Note II on it on it's highest angle but if I need to touch the device the whole thing will topple over if I don't take the care to actually hold the thing still.
Gripes:
* Can't really use it on anything other than a flat surface. There's a "lock" bar that tries to provide a way to prevent the thing from folding up, but it still feels flimsy in my lap.
* My pinky mixes up the directional up arrow key for the right shift key. I've gone through and switched the keys with External Keyboard Helper.
* Where the backspace key should be is actually bound to the delete key by default (guessing that's because this keyboard is targeted for Japanese users). Again fixed in External Keyboard Helper.
Other than that this keyboard is a keeper.
this is just like the Freedom Pro Keyboard I got over a year ago. It has SPP and HID as well. Even the little device stand that comes out the keyboard. the only that that is a bit odd for me, was the space bar being two pieces since I'm so train to hit the center. It also will let you know any flaws in your typing technique.
I like the keyboard overall though. It's a lot nicer than the virtual keyboard of mobile devices.
bit overpriced for what it is isn't it?
It might be by just a tad but it looks like a pretty pimp bluetooth keyboard especially because it's foldable. I'm currently using the Microsoft Wedge Bluetooth Keyboard which was normally $99 but I got mine on sale for $79. It works great with the Note 2 right out of the box and I use it together with a Rocksoul Bluetooth Mouse and it's an awesome combination imo. Thanks op for the heads up though on your keyboard because I'm definitely gonna look into it!
Sent from the bag phone in my Pontiac Fierro
DaBountyHunter said:
bit overpriced for what it is isn't it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A little, mostly because no one is reselling it in the US. Both of mine shipped from Japan. At the same time I'm fine with paying a little more for something that feels more like a ThinkPad keyboard.
Wish someone would make a good metal foldable bluetooth keyboard like the one Palm's had a few years back.
rubin110 said:
Particularly the TK-FBP018. Any of the other models typically wont be able to pair with Android due to Apple's craptastic Bluetooth certification practices. If you grab one of these off of ebay, make sure you message the seller ahead of time and confirm the model number, I've screwed myself over once by receiving the iOS only version already. You can find them for around $130 USD.
http://www2.elecom.co.jp/peripheral/full-keyboard/tk-fbp018/index.asp
Generally the keyboard works great. The key button hinge design is taken after Thinkpads (which I love). The keys are about the same size as a normal sized laptop keyboard, and for the most part nothing feels cramped. The thing folds down pretty small (only a little bigger than the Note's footprint). Haven't really used it enough yet to drain the batteries.
The built in detachable phone stand is really only made for phone sized phones. I can stand up my Note II on it on it's highest angle but if I need to touch the device the whole thing will topple over if I don't take the care to actually hold the thing still.
Gripes:
* Can't really use it on anything other than a flat surface. There's a "lock" bar that tries to provide a way to prevent the thing from folding up, but it still feels flimsy in my lap.
* My pinky mixes up the directional up arrow key for the right shift key. I've gone through and switched the keys with External Keyboard Helper.
* Where the backspace key should be is actually bound to the delete key by default (guessing that's because this keyboard is targeted for Japanese users). Again fixed in External Keyboard Helper.
Other than that this keyboard is a keeper.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
could you pls tell me how u managed to turn it to backspace again? i have exact the same problem
nevermind, solved it
rubin110 said:
... You can find them for around $130 USD.
...
Generally the keyboard works great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For 130$ it should at least work great!
dalanik said:
For 130$ it should at least work great!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For $130 it should still be there in the morning and cook breakfast.
Phogg said:
For $130 it should still be there in the morning and cook breakfast.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For $130 you can buy 6x Anker ultra-slim keyboards (in my review) or 2x Logitech Android keyboards with case/stand (review coming in a few days).

Keyboard

Hi everyone! A few months ago I read about a Bluetooth keyboard that was thin and fit perfectly on top of the halo keyboard. He also linked it to where he got it from, but I have since lost the information . Does anyone know of a keyboard like that? I would greatly appreciate any info on this. Thanks in advance!
landluber said:
Hi everyone! A few months ago I read about a Bluetooth keyboard that was thin and fit perfectly on top of the halo keyboard. He also linked it to where he got it from, but I have since lost the information . Does anyone know of a keyboard like that? I would greatly appreciate any info on this. Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think this is the one you're after:
https://www.amazon.com/1byone-Ultra...echargeable/dp/B00VRC6U2C?tag=viglink20238-20
Sent from my Pixel C using Tapatalk
That's exactly the one vt220. Thank you so much!
I actually got one (and I'm typing on it right now,, as a matter of fact -- albeit on a Nexus 10).
The good news:
- The price is certainly reasonable for a BT keyboard ($17).
- It's the same size as the Yoga Book and when you lay it on the YB keyboard, the magnet holds it in place.
- The spacing and key travel are fairly comfortable. I find that I can type marginally faster on this than on the Holo keyboard.
The bad news:
- If you thought that a trackpad couldn't be any worse than the one on the Holo keyboard, then this one is a revelation. it's absolutely horrible on the Yoga Book; slow, and no acceleration. Interestingly, it's not quite as bad on the Nexus 10 (still no prize, however). The problem is mitigated somewhat by the fact that it has a dedicated key to deactivate the trackpad, and it's not that hard to use a finger on the screen.
- I wish there were some way to angle the keyboard. Granted, this is a nit-pick, because the Holo keyboard has the same issue, but I use my old Nexus 10 on a big Griffin aluminum stand, and the back of the keyboard perches on the lip of the stand to make for a much more comfy typing angle.
Bottom line: I don't think this is worthwhile for the Yoga Book, but I'm keeping it for use with the Nexus.
tjupille said:
The bad news:
- If you thought that a trackpad couldn't be any worse than the one on the Holo keyboard, then this one is a revelation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check your drivers as it works just perfectly here... Two finger scrolling, tapping, gestures is so much better than on that Mini-Trackpad on the Holo. And finally no accidental Spacebar pressing...
Angle? It attaches perfectly covering the Holo and as you mention it even stays there thanks to the magnets. Why should I separate it from the Holo and having it sliding around on the table if I can have the Keyboard kinda attached? AND: Typing is so much better !
Drivers? Drivers?!? I should have specified that I'm on Android.
As far as the angle goes, I'm not real happy about the YB's flat keyboard either.
tjupille said:
I should have specified that I'm on Android.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK, I am on Windows. Maybe that's why I don't have any issues with the Touchpad... Furthermore I am getting Insider Builds and with the Fall Creators Update the Keyboard even communicates the Battery level. Neat.
landluber said:
Hi everyone! A few months ago I read about a Bluetooth keyboard that was thin and fit perfectly on top of the halo keyboard. He also linked it to where he got it from, but I have since lost the information . Does anyone know of a keyboard like that? I would greatly appreciate any info on this. Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What I would suggest is a rubber flexible bluetooth keyboard from eBay that would be very light and you could carry it around everywhere. That's what I think is the best alternative, as it would stay very gently onto the Halo keyboard. I just searched for 'Bluetooth Flexible keyboard' and quite a lot of results come up. An alternative is always AliExpress.

Galaxy Tab S6 Case?

Hi,
I know it's early days but does anyone know of any slim / low profile cases for the new Galaxy Tab S6? With or without a screen flap. I like the look of the official Folio Case but unsure if it will fall out of the magnets and also what the price will be in the UK. Yet to see anywhere to preorder the standard case.
Thanks
Ordering the Tab S6 with Samsung case and keyboard gives you a discount of £100. So could be something to consider.
Anyone know where I can get the rose blush keyboard case? It's only the grey available to pre order
I've ordered the book cover case but it seems it hasn't been released yet so I'm rolling with a sleeve cover for the time being! Does anyone know when they will hit the UK?
I have this tablet with the official keyboard case. While I'm still getting used to it I am currently very happy with it. The keyboard/front cover holds on very firmly despite being held by magnets and the back is very firmly attached. The comfort of the keyboard for typing is remarkable and the keyboard allows use of the tablet in DEX mode. I thoroughly recommend it.
blueskies1977 said:
I have this tablet with the official keyboard case. While I'm still getting used to it I am currently very happy with it. The keyboard/front cover holds on very firmly despite being held by magnets and the back is very firmly attached. The comfort of the keyboard for typing is remarkable and the keyboard allows use of the tablet in DEX mode. I thoroughly recommend it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The official keyboard cover looks pretty great indeed. One thing I'm wondering is whether the keys are still active when the keyboard is folded back, leading to involuntary key presses when you hold the tablet like that. Also, how much thickness and weight does it add? I wasn't happy at all with the Tab s4 keyboard cover (as compared with the Tab S3) because it makes the whole thing very bulky.
gmpx said:
The official keyboard cover looks pretty great indeed. One thing I'm wondering is whether the keys are still active when the keyboard is folded back, leading to involuntary key presses when you hold the tablet like that. Also, how much thickness and weight does it add? I wasn't happy at all with the Tab s4 keyboard cover (as compared with the Tab S3) because it makes the whole thing very bulky.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I saw in a YouTube video that there is no problem when the case is folded back the keys are not an issue
craigels said:
I saw in a YouTube video that there is no problem when the case is folded back the keys are not an issue
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the book cover case and can confirm the keyboard buttons don't appear to work if the keyboard is folded back BUT the on-screen keyboard doesn't open up either which is less than ideal.
WastedJoker said:
I have the book cover case and can confirm the keyboard buttons don't appear to work if the keyboard is folded back BUT the on-screen keyboard doesn't open up either which is less than ideal.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And this is the real shame with Samsung and Android tablets in general... can you ever imagine Apple making such a basic error?
I LOVE android tablets.... but man, there is ALWAYS something that we need to compromise on... even when spending $1100 (AUS) .... get mine in the mail tomorrow... and am still weighing up teh $200 for this keyboard / case.
So Yes it's stupid mistake, less of an issue for me because I always use dex mode with the keyboard and the onscreen keyboard can be brought up in dex mode.
When you compare to Ipad keep in mind that you can't even get a keyboard with a touchpad on it for Ipad since there is ZERO mouse support in IOS due to apple stubborness. Also no Dex, thus no dex on windows which I am using to type this right now.
You compromise no matter what you buy. If you like the android ecosystem then the android compromises are worth it, if you like the IOS ecosystem then the apple compromises are worth it. I have android(Note 10+) phone and like to share everything with my tablet therefor Ipad is a non starter.
Yes I know dex on windows is my note 10 feature, but just more arguments for the single platform.
I have the official non keyboard bookcase and can say that the magnet is really strong and the tablet doesn't fall out of the case like my old tab S3 used to.
gottahavit said:
So Yes it's stupid mistake, less of an issue for me because I always use dex mode with the keyboard and the onscreen keyboard can be brought up in dex mode.
When you compare to Ipad keep in mind that you can't even get a keyboard with a touchpad on it for Ipad since there is ZERO mouse support in IOS due to apple stubborness. Also no Dex, thus no dex on windows which I am using to type this right now.
You compromise no matter what you buy. If you like the android ecosystem then the android compromises are worth it, if you like the IOS ecosystem then the apple compromises are worth it. I have android(Note 10+) phone and like to share everything with my tablet therefor Ipad is a non starter.
Yes I know dex on windows is my note 10 feature, but just more arguments for the single platform.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah agree - totally prefer android over iOS .... It's just that Apples hardware / software combo works so well as they intend...even if that is so locked down as to be painful... They get the small things right.... Where as as good as Samsung ( and all other android OEMs ) is, it's those little bits of detail in their software that can let them down...
I see Poetic just announced their rubberize case for the tab s6. I have the one for the s4 and love it. I really like what they are doing with this one to augment the pen holder.
https://www.poeticcases.com/collect...s/turtle-skin-2019-samsung-galaxy-tab-s6-case

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