Portable Keyboard?

If this isn’t the right place for user questions, please just let me know.

My laptop’s keyboard has begun having issues in the last few months. I think one of the keys has a broken spring and it’s interfering with a half dozen others. Replacing the keyboard on this particular model involves stripping it to the chassis, which I prefer not to do.

Since the computer lives in my backpack and goes to class while teaching (I prefer my own device rather than the uni-issued 10-year-old laptop), I’m thinking of picking up a small portable keyboard to use when the builtin acts up. Do any of you guys have suggestions for a good model?

CaptObvious,

Just a quick follow up to say thanks for all the suggestions. You guys were very helpful in making a decision here.

I ended up with the Logitech K380. It has a form factor that fits easily in my backpack and will work as a backup keyboard when the laptop’s is acting up. It also seems sturdy enough to be lugged around with all the junk in there.

So thanks again to everyone. I really appreciate your help.

humanplayer2,
@humanplayer2@lemmy.ml avatar

Lenovo has some versions with trackpoint which is nice if you’re into that kinda thing.

CaptObvious,

Lenovo isn’t one that pops onto my radar. Thanks for the suggestion.

HidingCat,

Probably something small and slim, like the Logitech K380.

I'd avoid the mechanicals because you're not typing anything for long and I'm guessing space will be a premium in your backpack. The K380 is thinner than any mechanical, even the slimmer low-profile ones. Plus it'll be within your budget; anything decent will not be US$50, or even US$100.

CaptObvious,

Good points. Thanks.

recursive_recursion,
@recursive_recursion@programming.dev avatar

if you want an opensource keyboard you could check out System76’s Launch

  • there’s 3 variants the Launch Lite, Launch, and Launch Heavy

it’s a bit too expensive for me atm but might be worth it to you

CaptObvious,

I really like the idea of System 76. Sadly, my wallet is much less enthusiastic about them. :(

Thanks for the suggestion.

108beads,

Wirecutter (NYTimes) has a set of reviews here: www.nytimes.com/…/the-best-bluetooth-keyboard/

I’ve been eyeing the cheapest Logitech ('cause it’s cute!), but my 8 year old Anker is still going strong (no longer available, but Amazon shows similar models). I do like that my Anker has a plug-in mini USB (pre-USB-C) to recharge its internal battery, whereas the Logitech seems to need two AAAs. I’ve had good experiences with both brands.

CaptObvious,

Anker keeps popping up in my searches. Their small portables look like possibilities.

The Logitech’s AAA batteries aren’t a problem; I have rechargeable AAAs.

I’ve also used products, although not keyboards, from both brands. Both seem to be fairly good overall.

108beads,

Yup—I have rechargeable batteries too! But they last so long I forget about them, and then never have replacements at hand when I need them… like, in the middle of a class! I’m better about plugging in to USB periodically than I am about carrying spare batteries. Personal preference.

CaptObvious,

LOL! I hear you. Same here. I try to keep a few spare alkalines in my desk drawer because I’m awful about knowing when I’ll need replacements.

EvilBit,

Depends on your priorities and needs. If portability is paramount, I like the Targus Folding Bluetooth Keyboard. It’s like a Surface type cover only standalone.

us.targus.com/…/ergonomic-foldable-bluetooth-anti…

CaptObvious,

Thanks. Targus has always had really interesting products.

BuddyTheBeefalo, (edited )

I’d get something like Logitech K380 or K400 Plus and a case.

CaptObvious,

Thanks for the suggestions. Logitech’s K360 has also popped up in a search, although it seems too big to fit comfortably in my pack.

8bitguy,

I agree. I have the k400, it would be perfect. The integrated track pad would be value added in OP's case.

CaptObvious,

Hadn’t considered the trackpad. Thanks.

d3Xt3r,

Nuphy and Keychron make some pretty good looking (and feeling) portable keyboards.

#Nuphy Air75

https://i.shgcdn.com/baca3be0-82ae-46d9-83e6-8d94de2eb08b/-/format/auto/-/preview/3000x3000/-/quality/lighter/

#Keychron K3

https://d3fa68hw0m2vcc.cloudfront.net/0df/275243061.jpeg

Check out the Nuphy and Keychron websites for more options and choices of colors, keycaps, switches etc.

CaptObvious,

Thanks for the suggestions. I’d never heard of either of them before.

Lettuceeatlettuce,
@Lettuceeatlettuce@lemmy.ml avatar

What’s your budget and how are you with small keyboards, like 40%?

CaptObvious,

Budget, say $50-ish. For the right keyboard, I could go a bit more. A small keyboard might work in this case, since I only type quick notes during class. TBH, I’m more concerned about durability and knocking around in a backpack.

Lettuceeatlettuce,
@Lettuceeatlettuce@lemmy.ml avatar

I love my Vortex Core 40% keyboard. Mechanical, works well, durable and super compact.

Takes a bit to get used to the key layout, but after about 2-3 weeks, I was able to hit 80+ wpm.

About 80-90 bucks USD, a little more than your range, but it’s super well built and should last you a long time.

Make sure you get choose a quiet switch (no blues) and get the rubber silencing gaskets. They are little O-rings that slide over the keystems and help quiet the keyboard. Your classmates will thank you lol.

CaptObvious,

Thanks for the suggestion and for the noise advice. I’m the professor, and anything I use can’t possibly be as noisy as the uni-supplied keyboards in the classroom. :)

Lettuceeatlettuce,
@Lettuceeatlettuce@lemmy.ml avatar

Fair point lol.

  • All
  • Subscribed
  • Moderated
  • Favorites
  • •
  • tech
  • DreamBathrooms
  • everett
  • InstantRegret
  • magazineikmin
  • thenastyranch
  • rosin
  • Durango
  • ethstaker
  • Youngstown
  • slotface
  • khanakhh
  • kavyap
  • ngwrru68w68
  • osvaldo12
  • JUstTest
  • tacticalgear
  • cubers
  • cisconetworking
  • anitta
  • provamag3
  • modclub
  • mdbf
  • GTA5RPClips
  • tester
  • megavids
  • normalnudes
  • Leos
  • lostlight
  • All magazines
    •