Keyboard Reviews

Like someone else, who posted a review here, I went through 2 of these. I ordered one online and when I recieved it both the circle button and d-pad were stuck. I couldn't repair it without taking it apart and I didn't want to do that. I returned it and decided to buy another one.

I purchased a second one at Best Buy and it had the EXACT same problem. I took this one apart and fixed the problem and began to play with it. It's easy to fix once you remove all 20 screws. I suggest if you have the problem to just return it and get your money back.

The analog sticks are slick and they don't have any gripping power like the original Sony controller. My thumbs were sliding off of them during gameplay. I found myself stretching my thumbs a little bit in order to move the stick all the way forward. They probably changed the specs for people who have huge hands.

The 8 direction d-pad is horrible. It's a big circle that is terrible for simple up/down & left/right movement. It's only good if you need 360 degrees of movement. I really hate these circle d-pads because they never have good response. Nintendo has it right with their 4 direction d-pads especially the SNES one.

The vibration feature was a good idea but since the Netplay is so heavy the effects are weak. The keyboard portion of the controller is ok. It's basically a laptop sized keyboard. Seems pretty sturdy but I noticed that sometimes letters would get repeated 3-4 times. Maybe it was caused by some lag. For some reason you can detach it.

Don't buy this. The controller portion doesn't compare to the original PS2 controller and it breaks easily. The buttons get easily stuck and it's a pain to take it apart to fix. Two other people here had the same problems as me so I'm sure it's more than just a bad batch or a coincidence.

It's a shame ASCII didn't make something like this. They are great at replicating original design specs when it comes to controllers. Their GameCube keyboard/controller is awesome and works perfectly.

I got a brand new replacement (...)P>It seems the keyboard was out of warranty already, even though I got it new from another retailer (whom I won't buy from again.) Perhaps there was a bad batch of these?

Anyhow, the keyboard is great, and one doesn't have to switch keyboard and controller anymore. It's contoured nicely to sit on one's lap.

My only complaint is that some of the keys could be bigger. Like the tab key, and all the punctuation keys around the return button.

Can this be used for PC too? How does it connect to PC?

The keyboard is alright considering that in was very inexpensive compared to others. After a while, it does get sort of boring. I have had this keyboard for about a year, and you eventually get tired of hearing the same thing over and over. The only real feel of diversity you could get from this machinery is if you have a home music studio on your pc. Then, if you hook up your keyboard, you can add to the diversity of your music program. Considering the money spent, I would say that it is a very decent buy.

My friend has this keyboard that I love madly since I have been playing piano for four years.Even though I am only nine years old, I would reccomend this for children seven to twenty.This keyboard has everything that a professional keyboard in a studio would have.Since my father will be purchasing this product for Christmas, I know the keyboard and reccomend it for you!

My father bought me this keyboard for Christmas which I love so badly!My friend had this keyboard and I loved it so, I got it and I reccomend it for you!

I bought this keyboary about 6 months ago from a different website. Its pretty cool and the light function does work, however its almost impossible to see the keys light up with any kind of ambient light in the room. In other words, its very dim. This didnt really bother me because I do most of my gaming and typing in the dark (one of the reasons i bought it in the first place). Also, the keyboard is very small, like a laptop keyboard, so it will take some getting used to when typing. Ive used it for day to day typing and gaming and at first you have a tendency to hit the wrong keys but with use it becomes more natural.
Im not using it anymore though, with heavy day to day use and the round the clock gaming I do this keyboard has become quite dirty. And it is damn near impossible to clean. Some of the keys have begun to jam up because of it.
Still, if you want a keyboard that lights up for your LAN party or showpiece rig, its a decent keyboard. I dont recommend it for heavy day to day use though.

Before buying this keyboard through Amazon, I researched two other models, and based on what I read, I determined that this would be the best of the three due to its higher-quality build construction and larger keys and overall larger layout. After having used it every day for 4 months now, here are my impressions:

This keyboard took some getting used to. While the keys and layout are larger than a laptop's, the feel of the keys is very similar to a laptop's as far as how the keys feel when depressing them. Not a bad thing really, but I much prefer the feel of a regular standard keyboard. Unfortunately, as of this writing, there are no standard-type keyboards available with illumination.

And speaking of illumination, I am extremely satisfied with the illumination provided here. It's not terribly bright, so you won't really notice it when you have other room lights on. But when you're in a dark room, this thing looks just stunning and for my purposes, it provides just the exact right amount of light. If it were much brighter, it would be more of a distraction. The illumination is nice and even, and I've gotten several comments on how beautiful it looks.

I've read elsewhere about electrical interference and a high-pitched buzzing. I worried about this until I actually got mine. I noticed absolutely none of that interference or noise, so I can't imagine what the problem might be for those folks. I've used cordless phones nearby and have played games through the PC speakers, and got none of the whine I'd heard of. It's still functioning perfectly, and there have been many times I've left it on for days at a time.

The keyboard derives its power right through the PS2 connection. You install it simply by plugging it in as you would any other keyboard. That's it. There's no on/off switch, but then again you don't really need one. The manufacturer claims 10,000 hours lfe expectancy for the illumination, and I've got no reason to doubt it. There is no drawback that I can see to having it lit all the time. It never gets warm. I've just never had a single problem with this thing, other than the getting used to it part, which took me about 3 weeks of daily use until I got used to the amount of pressure required on the keys. It's about as sensitive as a regular keyboard, but you don't have to push down as far on the key. The entire board lays completely flat. So to sum up, I think once an initial adjustment has been made, I think most folks will grow to love this board, and if nighttime illumination is important (I play games like "Thief: The Dark Project" at night with all the lights off, which was my personal motivation for buying this), this board is the best there is. And it adds a stunning look to your system as a side-benefit. It is not cheap, but it has never malfunctioned, and is not cheaply made. It feels the same today as when I bought it new 4 months ago. I'm very pleased with it.

I'm personally very happy with this keyboard. it takes some getting used to but in the end is a winner!

The layout is a bit difficult to get use to at first. As was stated by previous reviewers it is bigger then a laptop keyboard, but has a similar feel, and layout. But after a couple days you should be able to get used to it.
Another thing that may bother some is the lack of travel on the keys, and the fact that there is very little "click" with each key stroke (again, similar to a laptop keyboard)...

I actually have found that I prefer the slimmer profile, and smaller amount of desk space taken up with this setup.

The illumination is great, which was the main buying point for me. It gives a nice nightlight like glow when burning the midnight oil to hit those deadlines (or when spending too much time, on your day off, being a late night caffeine burning computer geek).

Also of note: I've had no problem with the "hum" or "buzzing" that some speak of emitting from the unit, and I have plenty of odd electronic gadgets on my desk top that seem to cause no cross-interference for me (wireless, blue tooth, wi-fi, etc, etc.)

In summary. If you want an illuminated keyboard, right now, this is the best one I've seen. If you think you'll have problems adjusting to a bit of a different layout, a slightly smaller keyboard, along with the lack of key travel and "click". then you may want to stay away till someone makes a standard full-sized light up unit.

use a pc tablet like real people. not a stupid calc.

When I was growing up in the 1980's, my family owned a TI-99/4A computer, which was one of the first home computers. Using this keyboard with my calculator reminded me of that. We had a word processor. Just like the one that goes with this keyboard, there was no text formatting, no mouse, no graphics, and only very basic cutting and pasting functions. Nevertheless, I like this keyboard.

I got it as part of a grant. I really didn't want the keyboards at all, but they were part of the grant. As part of my grant, I needed to find a use for them in my classroom. So far I have used them for taking lab notes and for writing lab reports.

This has been wonderful. Students have easy access to data, can easily share lab notes, and can even take notes in class. I'm a science teacher, so naturally I enjoy this equipment. However, now the English teacher is interested in borrowing it. She likes the idea of the students typing essays in class (instead of hand writing them). It's almost like giving each student a lap top computer, but without the distractions or the hefty price tag.

I strongly recommend this tool!

So, why 4 stars and not 5? I've watched classrooms full of kids use the keyboard and I have used my own. I have noticed that the keyboard and cradle have very flimsy stands. They can break off even when a student is being careful.

In addition, there is too much cable. I like the way the cable is stored inside the cradle, but I do not like all the excess that can't be stored in it. These two feet of cable are hard to store (a consideration if it travels in a backpack).

Finally, I wish the keyboard came with a cover like the calculator does. I take mine at home at night to write up papers for my students (no, I don't own a computer). I don't like all the buttons out in the open to collect dirt and filth and to be held down by my books.

Other than these quibbles, I am very happy!

This keyboard is a great addition to my TI 83S+. I already have a laptop, but this is much easier, lighter and quicker to use in class. And I have the TI 83 with me anyway for the class I originally bought it for. Now, with the light weight keyboard I walk into other meetings/classes and in the space of two-three seconds it is up and "running" vs. my laptop friends who are just turning there laptop on or still waiting on it to complete loading. I was worried about the size of the font in the screen on the TI 83. No need to worry, it is very easy to see and is actually a delight. As for a note taker, I disagree with one of the other raters. The NoteFolio has menus and all and as a note-taker it seems sophisticated. The TI 83 has lots of room for memory and you can read it later or load it into your computer at home/apt. to print. The keyboard is full size and unlike other compacts I have used (my palm pilot GoType keyboard is much smaller). When I use this keyboard (for the TI 83) it is easy just as on my desktop at home. In fact I just type away. I recommend this to all. Real good way to avoid purchasing a laptop to take to class. I think I could even use this in the library to take notes! Again, one of its great advantages is it's light weight, ease in carrying, and use issue. I don't think you will regret this purchase.

Initially when I bought this product I had experienced the same space bar issue I read about later. I liked everything else about it. I was within warranty so I returned it for another, and this one works perfect. I like it much better than the infrared models and its extremely handy for meetings. HP gave me excellent service on this as well.

I've been very satisfied with this keyboard, although I almost didn't get it after reading the reviews. Thankfully, I got it anyway! I'm a touch-typist with large hands, and I've been able to use it without having to look down very often. My fingers are able to get around to the keys well, but as another reviewer mentioned, some keys are in different places, like a notebook computer.

The unit folds down very compactly, which makes it easy to slip into a pocket or just tote along with the iPAQ.

My co-workers who also have iPAQs are very jealous of my keyboard, especially when I type in business cards or take notes in meetings. Highly recommended!

This keyboard is the best purchase for my PPC. It is the most integrated keyboard and it is very compact and sleek. I recommend this product to everyone.

Really does very little more than act as a substitute for graffiti. Not useful for taking notes or writing emails. Any you can't use the stylus while typing. It also makes the sleek Palm much bulkier and uglier. I returned it and bought the Palm Portable Keyboard which really allows me to do what I want, that is take notes in meetings.

I find this type of products very usefull, I own a Palm m125, and since I didn't see a good reference picture of the product (the one presented shows only the front) unfortunatedly I purchase this article by mistake so be VERY CAREFUL when buying it, this product won't work with the m125

I own a Palm m505 (since 2001) and then purchased a Seiko Thumboard accessory instead of the keyboard so I can write down notes while I'm travelling in the backseat of the car (you can't get any mobile than that). Now, I have replaced my dim m505 for a new m515 and continue to use the Thumboard with it. Although there are Hotsync pop-up snags upon insertion of the handheld, eventually the Thumboard becomes useful again and truly fun to use. Even if Palm has brought forth new devices with built-in keyboards, this product is a delight to use. I love my Thumboard as much as I love my my Palm m515! Does the trick. Perfect for me.

One wonders if anyone at Fellowes tested this out before manufacture.

The bad -

Dock Lock: The first unit I received had such a flimsy lock that the keyboard would not stay docked with my Visor Neo. I tried tape, but it was only partly effective and makes removing the PDA for Hotsync difficult. And for the price, one shouldn't have to hold the thing together with tape! On advice of Fellowes customer service, I exchanged the keyboard/case for another. The tiny lock is much better but still prone to disengage occasionally, so I must ensure it's still latched before I turn on the PDA. Customer service is also sending me a shim kit that is supposed to help the Neo fit more snugly.

Stylus: The stylus (still needed at times) is cheap plastic with a poor feel, but the PDA's much nicer one is inaccessible in this case. The stylus conveniently stores in the back of the case, but this prevents the case from lying completely flat, so typing is sometimes a little bouncy.

Keyboard: At the most, two fingers can be comfortably used for typing. Since the left side of the case is thicker than the right which contains the keyboard, using the left hand is more difficult because it bumps against the side of the case. I have yet to find a use for some of the buttons.

The good -

Sturdy case.
Quicker, more error-free character entry that with Graffiti (at least for me).
Useful enough to be a keeper despite its flaws, but I'll keep an eye out for the next generation.

I bought one today, I just had to try this out. I own the Targus folding keyboard. But w/ that keyboard, you are limited to where you can use it, but I do like the Targus keyboard.

After loading the software & having a chance to try it out (Type N Go), I am not sure if I like the Type N Go. The other reviewers are right about this product. It will not work w/ your Handspring, if the connection w/ the Type N Go is not good. So adding some tape or velcro to the top will add tension. And the lock does have a tenedency to become unlock. So be aware of this flaw. Using the keyboard is awkward. I guess it will take some time to get used to. I just have to learn how all the different keys/functions work. I know it took a little time to get used to the Targus keyboard. The buttons are on the small side, but I can easily type faster than using the graffiti writing. You can pretty much do all the functions on the Type N Go. BUT, you still have to use a stylus on some functions. Do not be misled that the stylus is used minimal. But something that has not been mentioned from other reviewers is, the Type N Go has its own stylus, that is built in on back of the case. This is a nice feature, that you do not have to unlock the Handspring to use that stylus. It's just a plain stylus w/ no ball point pen. But it is accessible if you need to use a stylus for some functions.

The case is a bit bulky. But not as bulky as when I had a Targus case to carry the Handspring & the Targus keyboard. What's nice about the Type N Go case is, it will protect your Handspring & you can do most functions using the keyboard. With the Targus keyboard, I had to hook up the Handspring to it. For those who own the Targus keyboard, you know how difficult it can be to dock your Handspring to it. It can be quite frustrating at times. Also, there is a backlight button on the Type N Go. You can toggle the backlight to be on or off, not like the backlight on the Handspring, which will turn off your unit, then you have to it turn back on.

With the Type N Go, after I get used to it, I may not have to use the graffiti anymore. I just need to get used to holding it, see what feels comfortable. After a few minutes of holding the case, you're hand gets a bit tired. The case & the Handspring weighs some, & you will feel the weight after some time using. I've tried putting it down flat on the table. Works great, but the glare from the light affects the screen. So tilting it helps.

This product is a good idea, but something that would improve on the design would be to somehow lock the case open flat. Or to have it locked slightly folded, so you can have a better hold in your hand. If Fellowes reads this, and they can improve w/ this suggestion, I think they'll sell a ton of the Type N Go.

So this product is good, it just needs a refinement for better holding. One last note, I'm right handed, so using the Type N Go feels okay. I'm not sure left handed users will be comfortable using this, I don't know, just a thought.....

When I was planning the purchase of a keyboard for my Visor Deluxe, I considered the larger portable keyboards, but they were too big even when folded (like carrying 2 PDAs), needed to be connected every time you wanted to type, and require a flat surface for use.
This item addresses these problems nicely. Because it serves as a PDA case and a keyboard, the total size is nearly the same as a paperback, which I know may be too big for some, but perfectly manageable. The case itself is pretty tough, and the keyboard is always connected to the PDA (and easily disconnects for Hotsyncing or going light) so it's always available, like when that quick note turns into a magnum opus. And although this item works best on a flat surface, you can definitely use it while holding it in your hands. An additional feature is that the case is partially covered in a nonskid surface so that when the case is open it won't slide, like off an airplane tray table.
As might be expected, you have to accept some inherent design compromises, which to me were acceptable. First, the keyboard - which resembles a Blackberry - is not as well situated as a Blackberry, since it is on the side opposite the PDA when the clamshell case is open. This makes for awkward typing. Another problem, reported by another reviewer (THANKS!), is that the PDA can be a little loose in the plug, but a few discrete layers of double-sided tape increased the tension so that this problem is eliminated.
For me these shortcomings are acceptable compared to those of the large keyboards. Very handy PDA accessory!

I also have a Zire 71, but I cannot, however hard I try, get the keyboard to work with it. The driver I have (beta V2 for Palm os5), screws up the hotsync whether on or off, but it doesn't make it work. If anyone can spread any light on the subject please email me at craig_16@msn.com or leave feedback on this page.
On the other had, the keyboard is the lightest, most comapct i have ever had. The metal case gives a secure feeling and when unfolded it is almost the same width as the letters section on a regular keyboard.
What I'm saying is, if I can get this keyboard to work, we will grow old together, but if I can't, it's going back.

I have a Zire 71 (OS 5.2). This keyboard with the latest (last, as Logitech has announced that they are stopping development) driver works. It interferes with the predisplay of the camera image, but turning off the driver solves this problem. HotSyncing is a minor issue as well.

On the whole it's not perfect, but reasonable at the price.

Compact, light, portable. A great little keyboard that does the job unless you use your palm like your laptop - not meant for huge writing tasks as the keys are a little close together but if you use it to make notes etc, its brilliant!

I received this item as a Christmas gift. It broke just 3 weeks ago and I have been unable to repair it. A co-worker of mine, had the exact same problem with this item. Given the expense, I would not recommend this item to anyone. There are far more reliable products on the market for either the same or lower cost.

No directions at all? Pppppbbbbbt.

Comes in a simple blister pack like any supermarket papermate, so the only instructions available would have to be on the back. Yet all that's there is some (...) message on cleaning a PDA. As if the PDA manufacturer's instructions wouldn't cover this...

So far, I've had no luck on figuring this pen out. It works pretty much like a bic, but instead on getting a ballpoint pen, you get one of four tips - a red pen, a black pen, a stylus, or a pencil. So far, it seems pretty random. I've tried twisting the cap, pressing at angles, twisting the base. No luck at all. There are little icons just below the cap every quarter turn that seem to suggest the cap needs to be turned, yet that doesn't work.

So off I went to (...). Sure enough, they continue their boneheaded lecture online with directions not to scratch your PDA, how to clean your PDA properly, and even their opinion on applying RainX to your PDA (GEEZ) but unfortunately they omit anything related to instructions on their /own/ products.

Bleh. Other negatives --- cheap tin feel, red pen has funky flourescent tint and requires a very heavy hand - far too heavy for me to bother using, pencil lead advance binds mechanically.

Four functions, does none of them very well with the possible exception of the black ink pen. Pass.

Where'd these other two glowing reviews come from? I don't work for this PDA Panache company if you couldn't tell...

If anyone needs instructions for this pen or cannot figure out how to use it in 5 minutes, this person should not be allowed around a couputer, ID TEN T errors... This pen is not only multyfunctional it is just cool. You have a black pen, a pencil, PDA stylus and Red-Fluorecent pen. It is not heavy for all the stuff inside of it, or too bulky. The Matrix Grip does its job wonderfully. This is a pen to have in your desk and use for all your needs without having to get your stylus out of the PDA, plus it works a lot better than the PDS's in my oppinion. A great buy. If you still have not figure out how to work it, there are little pictures of what you want to use in the top side of the pen by the clicker, whatever picture is facing up, that is what you will get. It is very simple to use.

The keyboard was much better when it cost a million dollars

I purchased two at one million dollars each. It looks as if my investment has not paid off.

Will sell for 100,000 US dollars.

The L-Shaped enter key has restored my faith in keyboards. For the first time I feel like I can use a keyboard without wondering if while I'm typing I'll be able to find the enter key. I used to avoid keyboards for weeks for that reason. No more.