Smartphones and tablets are great for a lot of things, but typing quickly and accurately is normally not one of them. Typing using an on-screen keyboard can be slow and make you prone to errors.
If you find yourself frequently using your portable device to edit documents or type out long e-mails, consider getting a Bluetooth keyboard. In this list, we’ve selected affordable keyboards that are compatible with most smartphones and tablets.
1. Best Overall Bluetooth Keyboard:
Logitech K480 Multi-Device Keyboard
Logitech K480 Multi-Device Keyboard
Logitech K480 Multi-Device Keyboard
Buy Now On Amazon $28.99
Logitech is known for making, high-quality, cost-effective peripherals and the Logitech Multi-Device Keyboard is no exception. It strikes a great balance between affordability, versatility, and functionality that makes it a great option regardless of your device.
The K480 supports iOS and Android, as well as Mac and Windows if you need to use it as a replacement keyboard in a pinch. It also has a keyboard layout with shortcut keys that should feel instantly familiar to a desktop or laptop user.
It has a built-in cradle that acts as a stand for your laptop and tablet. The cradle should be wide enough to fit most devices, and it positions most tablets at an ideal angle for reading and typing. In some circumstances, it can accommodate both a phone and a smaller tablet in vertical mode.
The most unique feature of this keyboard is the ability to pair it with three different devices. It has three separate Bluetooth connections that you can switch through using a dial above the escape key. Therefore, you don’t even have to pair or unpair the device to move from your phone to your laptop or tablet.
2. Best Bluetooth Keyboard for Business:
iClever Foldable Keyboard
iClever Foldable Keyboard
iClever Foldable Keyboard
Buy Now On Amazon $36.99
The iClever Foldable Keyboard doesn’t look like a keyboard at first glance. This unit has a shiny aluminum exterior that blends right in with a MacBook Pro or iPad Pro. This makes it a great option for use in business and corporate settings while providing additional durability against dents and scratches.
In addition to the sharp look, it is very compact and lightweight at just over six ounces. It has two hinges on either side that fold into the center. It should be small enough to fit into most pockets. While it is folded up, the keys are also protected from dirt and dust.
iClever claims that the keyboard’s battery provides typing time of up to 90 hours, with a standby time of up to 960 hours. To save battery, it has a magnetic switch that automatically turns off the keyboard when it is folded.
The device is compatible with most Bluetooth-enabled devices, whether they run Android, iOS, or Windows. You can switch the shortcuts between the three using special function controls on the keyboard.
3. Best Bluetooth Keyboard for Tablets:
Nulaxy KM12
Nulaxy KM12
Nulaxy KM12
Buy Now On Amazon $25.99
Unlike most keyboards in this price range, the Nulaxy KM12 has a stand that can handle tablets and large smartphones of nearly every size. This includes Galaxy Notes, iPad Minis, and iPad Pros up to the 12.9-inch model. That makes it one of the best options for creating a portable work setup that resembles the functionality of a laptop.
The KM12 has a leather case that folds inward to form a stand. Because the stand uses the surface it’s on as support, it can hold the weight of most devices. You can also detach the cover if your phone or tablet already has a case with a stand.
This particular keyboard is also backlit, with three brightness options and five colors to choose from. Together with its fairly quiet keys, this makes it a great option for typing during at home during the night. During the daytime, you can disable the backlight to save on battery life.
The KM12 also provides impressive battery life. This unit runs for up to 40 hours when it’s not backlit and has up to 60 days of standby time. It automatically enters sleep mode after 15 minutes of not being used.
4. Best Bluetooth Keyboard for Phones:
Samsers Foldable Keyboard
Samsers Foldable Keyboard
Samsers Foldable Keyboard
Buy Now On Amazon $25.99
If you plan to use a keyboard with your mobile phone, you likely don’t want a device that is too large. The Samsers Foldable Keyboard is a great cellphone keyboard as it folds in half to be more compact. As an added bonus, it has a small stand that is compatible with most smartphones in both portrait and landscape.
Folded in half, it is only 5.7 inches wide and is smaller than many modern phones. It will easily fit into any handbag or briefcase. The folding mechanism is magnetic, which prevents it from opening accidentally when you’re carrying it around with you.
The included stand has six viewing angles so you can get it in the perfect position regardless of your height or device size. Since it’s separate from the keyboard, you can use it for other activities such as watching videos or reading ebooks.
The exterior design of the keyboard also looks fairly slick. It is styled with leather and resembles a wallet when folded up.
5. Best Bluetooth Keyboard for Android:
OMOTON Ultra-Slim
OMOTOM Ultra-Slim
OMOTOM Ultra-Slim
Buy Now On Amazon $13.99
While many Bluetooth keyboards are designed with Apple’s devices in mind, the OMOTON Ultra-Slim is specially made for Android users. In addition to the standard QWERTY layout, it has 13 hotkeys specifically meant for Android devices. These include volume controls, brightness controls, return, and lock.
The OMOTON Ultra-Slim is slender, with a width of just 0.2 inches and weighing just 10 ounces. The device maintains a connection up to a distance of up to 33 feet, so you should be able to use it with Android TV sets.
The upper portion of the keyboard is slightly raised, which provides a more comfortable angle for typing for extended periods of time. The keys are also spacious, so fast typists should be able to get to their regular speed in no time.
Unlike other Bluetooth keyboards, it is not rechargeable via micro-USB or USB-C. Instead, it uses two AAA batteries. However, it makes up for it with strong battery life, with several weeks worth of use with each replacement and an automatic sleep mode.
The Best Bluetooth Keyboard for Your Device
The Bluetooth keyboards we listed above are great options, and work with a wide range of devices. Getting a Bluetooth keyboard allows you to achieve a lot of the same functionality as a laptop with a much smaller gadget.
If you want to complete your portable setup, you should consider turning your smartphone into a full desktop replacement.
Read the full article: The 5 Best Bluetooth Keyboards for Smartphones and Tablets