Best Foldable Keyboard 2023 • 7 Foldable Keyboards Reviews

What is a foldable keyboard and how does it work?

A foldable keyboard, as the name implies, is a keyboard that can be folded or, in some cases, rolled up. Generally, it is smaller than a conventional keyboard. These two defining characteristics mean that it is very portable, and therefore easy to take with you while traveling. The keyboard is connected to your devices through a USB cable or via Bluetooth.

If you test this product, you will find that it is a very useful accessory that saves you the energy of having to carry around a conventional computer or laptop when traveling or working remotely. Investing in a folding keyboard is a very good idea if you need to use the functions offered by a computer but don’t want to carry a full laptop with you.

What types of foldable keyboards are there?

On the market, you will find two types of foldable keyboards. The best option for you depends on your needs and preferences. There are two main types of folding keyboards.

Roll-up

In comparison to others, tests show that rollup keyboards are usually flexible and rubbery in texture since they tend to be made of silicone. This makes them more resistant to liquids and dust and therefore easier to clean.

Rigid

Rigid keyboards are the best portable option because they can be folded into two or three sections, making them very small once folded. Some keyboards, when tested, even fold down to the size of a cell phone. In comparison with rollup ones, this type of keyboard is more compact. With this compact rectangular shape, you can easily transport them and even slip them into your pocket (although, perhaps not a pair of tight jeans).

Advantages and Disadvantages of Foldable Keyboards

If you decide on a foldable keyboard, there are several advantages and disadvantages in comparison to other types of keyboards. If you travel frequently, testing this product would surely show that this is the best option for you. The advantages of a foldable keyboard will most likely outweigh the disadvantages.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Shopping Criteria for Foldable Keyboards

When buying a foldable keyboard, it can be challenging to compare them and to know which to choose. There are some key aspects that you should keep in mind to guide your purchase. If you want to buy a high-quality product that works well and find the best choice for your needs, then you can safely be guided by these important purchase criteria. The criteria that passed our tests shall be covered in this section.

• Portability: size and weight
• Model
• Battery
• Connectivity
• Compatibility

Portability: Size and Weight

Folding keyboards are designed to be very portable, allowing us to transport them easily. However, the models available differ somewhat in terms of size and more significantly in weight. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal choice which functions you prioritize. For example, you may opt for a certain keyboard that may be heavier but has features that you want.

Tests show that some foldable keyboards can be carried in your pocket when folded and others fit perfectly in a bag. Be sure to check the keyboard’s measurements both when it is unfolded and folded. It should not only be easy to transport but also be comfortable for you to type. Keep in mind that rigid keyboards double their thickness once folded.

Model

As always, it all depends on what you want to use your folding keyboard for. In general, rigid keyboards are much more comfortable to type on, as they are more reminiscent of a conventional keyboard. These are definitely the ones to go for if you need to be able to write for a longer period of time.

Rollup keyboards tend to be much cheaper in comparison to rigid ones. You may choose to buy one of these if you are only planning to use it for shorter periods of time. In this case, a rollup keyboard can be a good option. However, if you plan to write longer texts, tests show that you will find that the low key sensitivity makes this difficult.

Battery

Most foldable keyboards are wireless and work with a Bluetooth connection. This means that the battery life is limited and at some point, it will have to be recharged or the batteries will need to be replaced. Folding keyboards currently found on the market have varied greatly when it comes to battery life (in operation and at rest) and charging time.

In comparison, there are other foldable keyboards without Bluetooth that connect via a USB cable to the device you are using it with. If that device does not have a USB port, like some tablets (which is one of the types of devices that you are most likely to want to use with a portable keyboard), you can always use an adapter.

Connectivity

Most folding keyboards on the market are wireless and battery-operated. However, as we have already mentioned, there are also folding keyboards that connect with a USB cable, which makes them less portable. There are also certain devices that will need an adapter. These two types of connections have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Bluetooth

In comparison to others, these devices are more portable. Tests have shown that they have better functionality and more freedom to move around with them. Their multiconnection ability allows them to connect to multiple devices simultaneously. Foldable keyboards with Bluetooth connections have limited battery life and use up the battery of your other device.

USB Cable

Folding keyboards that use a USB cable can be used immediately. You don’t have to wait for them to charge. The bad side is that its reach depends on cable length.

Compatibility

All the keyboards that we have presented in our Ranking are compatible with the three main operating systems: iOS, Windows, and Android. Most keyboards for sale should not present problems with these three systems, but before investing in one, be sure to check that this requirement is met. This will avoid nasty surprises.

It is a good idea to read the opinions of other customers using this kind of device. This is one of the best ways to really know whether a product works well or not. The more opinions you review, the better.

Related Links and Sources

• https://modern-gadget.com/top-7-foldable-keyboards-of-2020/
• https://modern-gadget.com/top-7-foldable-keyboards-of-2020/
• https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-mobile-keyboards/
• https://www.rollingstone.com/product-recommendations/electronics/best-folding-bluetooth-keyboard-995248/
• https://wiki.ezvid.com/best-foldable-keyboards
• https://www.digitaltrends.com/?review=microsoft-universal-foldable-keyboard-review

(Source of the featured image: Unsplash / Aleksandra Wantuch)

FAQs

What is a foldable keyboard used for?

As we mentioned in the previous section, a folding keyboard can be easily transported from one place to another, whether you want to take it on vacation, on a business trip, or to work in a café or a park. A laptop can weigh between one and three kilograms, which may not seem like much, but this weight can become significant after carrying it for a while.

The big advantage of a foldable keyboard is that it allows you to type easily and to use other, lighter devices like a computer. The best proof for this fact is the opinions of satisfied customers. Indeed, we will never have the same level of comfort as a conventional keyboard, but it is a practical solution that lets you travel lighter while enjoying the advantages of a computer keyboard.

Do foldable keyboards have the same functions as conventional keyboards?

Not at all. Due to its smaller dimensions, the path between the keys is generally smaller, which means you may find yourself accidentally hitting other keys. Some portable keyboards do not have all the keys that we find on a conventional keyboard. The fold can also make the arrangement of the keys somewhat less comfortable to use.

However, there are some very good foldable keyboards on the market that are a practical solution and reminiscent of a traditional keyboard but provide the advantages of a folding one. In our opinion, you will get used to the keyboard layout, and it pays to remember that these are not intended for long work sessions, but rather as an alternative solution when working on the go.

What range do Bluetooth foldable keyboards have?

This depends on the model of the foldable keyboard; however, most Bluetooth models have a range of around 10 meters. In the opinion of happy customers, this distance is more than sufficient to be able to write on your tablet or smartphone.

Are foldable keyboards sold in different colors?

Generally, most foldable keyboards come in classic black. Some brands sell portable keyboards in white or gray. If you are looking for an option that is a bit more colorful, there are some portable keyboards sold in different colors, such as bright pink or blue.