If you’ve read any of my computing reviews, you know that I’m a sucker for a good keyboard. I enjoy the comfort and tactile feedback they provide, and that’s the main reason I prefer laptops over tablets. me too despise I hit my finger on the glass. That’s off topic.
If I could, I’d take a keyboard with me whenever I travel with my tablet, but that’s not possible. Good wireless keyboards are bulky, making them impractical to carry around. Fortunately, a solution exists in the form of: Pluggable full-size folding keyboard.
Related article: Why I choose this ultraportable Lenovo tablet over iPad Air for multimedia usage
This lightweight accessory is primarily aimed at tablet users who want to be more productive at work. You no longer need to press the glass as the keys provide a “satisfying typing experience”. This device supports a wide range of systems, so it doesn’t just work with tablets, but more on that later.
I was curious to see how well Plugable’s gadgets matched traditional keyboards, so when I was asked if I wanted to try it out, I immediately jumped at the chance. After about a week of continuous use, I can confidently recommend this accessory to tablet owners. However, there is room for improvement.
As the name suggests, this model features a tri-fold design that allows the keyboard to close like a door. Measures 0.5 x 11.4 x 4.6 inches when opened. Folds down to 0.6 x 6.5 x 4.6 inches, allowing you to fit the device inside most bags. The folding keyboard is incredibly thin, but very comfortable to type on.
Plugable says it uses “high quality scissor switches” [which] The smooth typing performance has made it one of my favorite keyboards.
Another of my favorite features is its versatility. The keyboard can connect to Windows, Android, and iOS devices wired via a micro-USB cable or wirelessly via Bluetooth. Changing modes is done by pressing certain key combinations. For example, Fn and Q connect to Android, Fn and W connect to Windows. Press Fn and “1” keys to enable wireless connection. Press Fn and “2” to switch to wired connection.
Also: Finally, my quest for the best cheap Android tablet is over. Now it’s $70 off.
The great thing is that you can connect to two systems at the same time. After working on my Windows PC, I unplugged the cable from my folding keyboard and immediately started typing on my Android tablet. The opposite is not possible. After reinserting the cable, you will need to press the Fn and W keys to return to your computer’s OS.
Foldable keyboard with long battery life. Even after using it for a week, the effect is still visible. Plugable claims that the keyboard’s battery can last several weeks on a single charge.
The Foldable Keyboard is great, but there are some changes I’d like to see made in future models. First, it needs to have a more ergonomic design. The keyboard lies almost flat on the table, which puts your hands in an uncomfortable position and can strain your hands. Next, I would like a backlight for working at night. And third, the keyboard should support USB-C instead of Micro-USB so that it is more compatible with modern hardware.
ZDNET purchase advice
Plugable full-size folding keyboard retails for $45 Company website and Amazon. There are two sizes: S and L. My review unit is the latter, which explains why it feels so good to type on. A perfect accessory for people who like to spend their days in cafes or outdoors. Another point is that it comes with a hard leather case that can also be used as a tablet stand.