In my profession, itโs very important to always have access to a computer; to record studentsโ progress and plan lessons. I recently received a windows tablet from a friend of mine, but the biggest problems are both not to do with what it has got, but what it hasnโt.
Hint- Check the title, Iโm reviewing a keyboard. Thatโs what it didnโt have.
Iโll admit from the start I have pretty high standards for any keyboard; Iโve been using a Corsair K70 for about 4 years after all, but here we go!
The 1byOne Bluetooth keyboard I was sent is pretty small, about the same size as any usual 10 inch tablet, fitting nicely into the case I already had. The keyboard is of simple looks, with a full range of keys (minus the num-pad) and a small touchpad mouse area. On the whole it looks incredibly professional with a nice matt finish. My only gripe about the look is that it has the 1byOne logo plastered on it in white, which spoils it somewhat.
The keys, whilst quite shallow, work well with initially good sensitivity, as does the touchpad, which seems like itโs of good quality. Iโve never really liked touchpads, but in comparison to trying to touch tiny icons on my windows tab itโs a DREAM. Apart from that, well, the actual typing experience is pretty bog standard. Itโs not going to win any awards for innovative key design or feeling incredibly satisfying, but it does its job and it does it well.
Something in particular I want to point out is the fact that it is compatible with the magnetic-style cases. The case I was using already contained a keyboard, but I was able to swap it out flawlessly to take advantage of the 1byOneโs features.
Talking about features, the 1byOne has a few extra bits which are worth mentioning. Firstly, the touchpad can be switched off, which is a godsend in itself. When you are using a device as small at this itโs so easy to touch the pad whilst typing, causing havoc on screen. Whilst other devices I have used have had this functionality, the 1byOne is the first Iโve encountered to have a designated button which doesnโt require a โfunctionโ or other button press, making it a hell of a lot more convenient and a LOT less frustrating.
Pairing is as easy as starting the pairing process on both devices, tapping the name of the keyboard and typing in a short code number. I found there to be very little hassle involved, and I could be down to typing within seconds. The keyboard also seems to have a pretty exceptional battery life; even if you accidentally leave it on all nightโฆ
Unfortunately, itโs not ALL good for the 1byOne. It does occasionally disconnect from the device for seemingly no reason, causing the loss of a few letters. More seriously, I found that after a few weeks of use the keys began to lose their sensitivity slightly and accumulate a lot of dirt and dust, with no way to clean the board evident. Fast forward, and some of the keys are beginning to come off of it. Now, I know I have a hectic lifestyle with a lot of travel in it, so that probably factors in. However, due to the style of the keys they are not possible to reattach, so I do wonder how long this kit would last for the average user.
Regardless, if it stays in one piece the 1byOne Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard with Multi-Touchpad is a good example of value for money, as it ensues the bells and whistles to deliver a good, functional product at a decent price. For ยฃ13, you probably wonโt find better value.
The 1byOne Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard with Multi-Touchpad is available now from Amazon.co.uk, at http://www.amazon.co.uk/1byone%C2%AE-Wireless-Bluetooth-Keyboard-Touchpad/dp/B00VRC6U2C
The writer was provided with the product for review gratis.
Disclaimer:All scores given within our reviews are based on the artistโs personal opinion; this should in no way impede your decision to purchase the game.
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