Filed under: Reviews | I4U Gadget Reviews
TK-421 iPhone Case with Flip-Out Keyboard Review
ThinkGeek case adds keyboard to iPhone
Dec 20 2010, 12:00pm CST | by Shane McGlaun
Today I am playing with the TK-421 iPhone Case with Flip-Out Keyboard. This case is designed to fit the iPhone 4, but it is also available in a version that will fit the iPhone 3GS as well. The case protects your iPhone and gives it a Keyboard as well. If you have wished that the iPhone had a real keyboard, this might be the case for you.
Specifications
The TK-421 is a case with a keyboard that swivels out from under the phone. The keyboard is rechargeable and has Bluetooth connectivity. The 3GS case will not work with the iPhone 3G. You can order the TK-421 right now in version for the iPhone 4 or 3GS for $39.99.
In Use
The TK-421 is a very cool looking case that has a top section that you put the iPhone into and the keyboard swivels out from under the smartphone. The keyboard buttons are large, much larger than the Blackberry smartphones I have used. The keys feel very nice and have a very clicky feel. You can type fast using the keyboard and your thumbs.
I have become quite used to the onscreen keyboard that the iPhone uses over the years and don't really desire a keyboard any longer. The TK-421 has much larger keys than the iPhone onscreen keyboard does and it is easier to type on. Connecting the keyboard was very easy and took about two minutes to complete.
The keyboard works exactly as you expect it to with the iPhone 4. You simply swivel the keyboard from under the phone when you need it and start typing in any app. If you plan to type a lot of text messages the keyboard really comes in handy. The thing that bothered me most about the TK-421 is that the hinge doesn't seem to be that sturdy.
There is a lot of flex and play in the hinge area and I worry about the long-term durability of the case. Some have reported problems with the catch letting the keyboard open unexpectedly; I did not have that problem. The other downside to this case is that it adds a lot more bulk to the thin iPhone. I could really tell it was thicker in my pocket. The thicker case also made the phone harder to dig out of my pocket when I was driving or sitting as well.
Whether or not the suspect hinge area and extra bulk is worth it to you really depends on how much you want a keyboard. If the lack of a keyboard is the only thing, keeping you from the iPhone the TK-421 will get you away from your junky Blackberry.
Verdict
Pros
- Easy to pair
- Good typing feel
Cons
- Adds lots of bulk
- Hinge felt weak
Conclusion
The TK-421 has a few caveats, but I think many users will gladly look around any issues to get a keyboard that works well on the iPhone.
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Shane McGlaun
Leading our review center, Shane knows technology inside out. His
extensive experience in testing computer hardware and consumer
electronics enable him to effectively qualify new products and trends. If you want us review your product, please contact Shane.
Shane can be contacted directly at shane@i4u.com.
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