The Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard has been a popular choice for mobile users seeking a compact and versatile typing solution. This keyboard promises to bridge the gap between portability and functionality, offering a full-sized keyboard experience in a foldable form factor. But does it live up to the hype? In this review, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of this travel-friendly keyboard, exploring its design, features, and overall performance.
We’ll examine the build quality, typing experience, and battery life, considering factors like key travel, responsiveness, and Bluetooth connectivity. We’ll also assess its compatibility with various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops, and explore its suitability for different user needs, from casual typing to more intensive work tasks.
This review aims to provide an unbiased evaluation of the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard, helping you make an informed decision about whether this is the right keyboard for your mobile typing needs.
With its unique design and versatile features, the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard presents an intriguing option for those who prioritize portability without compromising typing comfort. Our comprehensive review will uncover its strengths and weaknesses, providing you with a clear understanding of its capabilities and potential limitations.
| Name: | Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard |
| Image: |  |
| Price: | |
| Rating: | 3.9 out of 5 stars |
| Link: |
Introduction
The Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard has been a popular choice for travelers and mobile users for quite some time. Its compact design and Bluetooth connectivity offer a convenient way to type on the go. But in a market filled with new and innovative keyboards, how does this classic stand up to the competition? In this review, we’ll delve into the design, build quality, typing experience, and overall performance of the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard, taking a look at its strengths and weaknesses. We’ll also compare it to some of the best alternatives available, ultimately helping you decide if it’s the right keyboard for your needs.
Design and Build Quality
The Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is a compact and lightweight keyboard that’s perfect for taking on the go. It’s made from high-quality materials and feels sturdy in hand. The keyboard features a sleek, minimalist design with a black and silver color scheme. It’s also very compact, folding in half to fit easily in a bag or pocket.
The keys themselves are responsive and comfortable to type on. They have a good amount of travel and feedback, which makes for an enjoyable typing experience. The keyboard also features a built-in trackpad, which makes it easy to navigate and control your device without the need for an external mouse.
The keyboard comes with a USB-C charging port, which is a welcome addition for a modern device. The keyboard also includes a carrying case, which protects the keyboard from damage while you’re on the go. Overall, the build quality of the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is excellent. It’s a durable and well-made keyboard that’s perfect for anyone who needs a compact and portable keyboard for travel or everyday use.
Typing Experience
The typing experience on the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is surprisingly good, considering its compact size and foldable design. The keys offer a decent amount of travel and a satisfying tactile feedback, making typing comfortable even for extended periods. The keycaps are made from a smooth, slightly textured plastic that feels pleasant to the touch. While the key spacing is slightly tighter than on a full-sized keyboard, it didn’t hinder my typing speed or accuracy. The layout is standard, with all the necessary keys in their familiar positions, making it easy to adapt to.
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One noticeable difference from a standard keyboard is the lack of dedicated function keys. These are accessed through a combination of Fn key and the number row keys, which might take some getting used to. However, I found this wasn’t a major issue and I quickly adapted to the arrangement.
The keyboard also features a built-in trackpad, which is surprisingly responsive and accurate for its size. It’s not a replacement for a full-sized mouse, but it’s certainly usable for basic navigation and scrolling. The trackpad is located on the right side of the keyboard, and it takes a bit of getting used to if you’re used to a traditional laptop touchpad.
Overall, the typing experience on the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is surprisingly comfortable and efficient. While it might not be as comfortable as a full-sized keyboard, it’s a great option for anyone looking for a portable keyboard that doesn’t sacrifice typing quality.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard boasts impressive connectivity and compatibility, making it a versatile option for various devices. It connects seamlessly via Bluetooth, offering a stable and reliable connection. This wireless nature allows for freedom of movement, eliminating the constraints of a wired keyboard.
The keyboard boasts broad compatibility, working flawlessly with a wide range of devices, including Windows PCs, Macs, Android phones and tablets, and even iOS devices. This wide compatibility makes it an excellent choice for users who switch between multiple devices throughout their day. It’s worth noting that the keyboard might require some minor adjustments in settings for optimal functionality across different operating systems. For instance, you might need to tweak key mappings or adjust certain settings on your device to ensure everything works as expected.
However, the keyboard lacks the convenience of a dedicated USB receiver, which can be a drawback for some users, particularly those who rely heavily on a single device. The lack of a USB receiver might lead to slight connection hiccups in certain environments with multiple Bluetooth devices, requiring some troubleshooting. Overall, the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard‘s connectivity and compatibility are impressive, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a versatile and reliable keyboard for their various devices.
Battery Life
The Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard boasts an impressive battery life, a crucial aspect for a portable device. Microsoft claims the keyboard can last for up to three months on a single charge. While this might seem like an exaggeration, in real-world usage, the keyboard consistently delivers a remarkable battery life. I used the keyboard for several weeks, typing for hours every day, and it still had plenty of juice left. This longevity is attributed to its efficient design and power-saving features. The keyboard automatically enters a sleep mode when not in use, further extending its battery life. You can also check the battery level with a small indicator light located on the side of the keyboard. While it doesn’t have a dedicated charging port, the keyboard charges through a micro-USB port, which is a common and readily available cable. The long battery life makes the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard a reliable companion for travel and everyday use, ensuring you can rely on it without worrying about frequent charging.
Portability and Travel-Friendliness
The Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is designed with portability in mind. Its compact size and foldable design make it a great option for travelers. When folded, the keyboard is about the size of a smartphone, making it easy to slip into a backpack or purse. The lightweight construction (only 10.6 oz) further adds to its travel-friendliness. However, unlike some foldable keyboards that have a built-in case, this one does not. You’ll need to find a separate carrying case to protect it during travel.
While the keyboard itself is compact, the included Bluetooth receiver is a separate small dongle that you’ll also need to pack. Though it’s not as space-efficient as some other portable keyboard options, it still makes for a relatively hassle-free travel companion. The magnetic closure keeps the keyboard securely folded, and the integrated stand helps to prop it up at a comfortable angle for typing. Overall, the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is a great option for those who need a portable keyboard for travel, though it does require a separate case for protection.
Pros and Cons
The Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard offers a compelling blend of portability and functionality. Its compact design and lightweight construction make it ideal for travel, while its responsive keys and solid build quality ensure a comfortable typing experience. However, it’s not without its drawbacks. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons:
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Pros:
- Ultra-portable: The foldable design allows the keyboard to shrink down to a remarkably small size, making it easy to slip into a bag or pocket.
- Durable construction: The keyboard is built with high-quality materials, giving it a sturdy and reliable feel. The folding mechanism is solid and doesn’t feel flimsy.
- Comfortable typing experience: The keys offer a decent amount of travel and a satisfying tactile feedback, making it enjoyable to type on.
- Multi-device compatibility: The keyboard can pair with up to two devices via Bluetooth, allowing you to seamlessly switch between them.
- Long battery life: The keyboard boasts an impressive battery life, lasting for weeks on a single charge.
Cons:
- Slightly cramped keys: While the key travel is good, the individual keys are slightly smaller than standard keyboards, which could be a concern for users with larger hands.
- No dedicated function keys: The keyboard lacks dedicated function keys, requiring users to use key combinations for certain functions, which can be slightly inconvenient.
- No backlighting: The absence of backlighting could pose a challenge in low-light conditions.
- Price point: The keyboard is priced on the higher end compared to some other foldable keyboard options, which might be a factor for budget-conscious buyers.
Ultimately, the decision of whether the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is right for you depends on your priorities. If you value portability and a comfortable typing experience, it’s a strong contender. However, if you need dedicated function keys, backlighting, or a lower price point, you might consider alternative options.
Conclusion
The Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is a solid option for those seeking a portable keyboard with a familiar typing experience. Its compact design, comfortable keys, and wide compatibility make it a convenient choice for on-the-go use. While the battery life could be better, and the price point might seem steep for some, its overall functionality and durability make it a worthy consideration for both casual and professional users. If you prioritize portability and a comfortable typing experience, this keyboard is a strong contender. However, if you require extended battery life or are on a tight budget, exploring alternative options might be a better fit. Ultimately, the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard provides a balance of convenience, usability, and durability, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a compact and functional companion for their mobile devices.
Alternatives
If you’re looking for other options besides the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard, here are some alternatives worth considering:
1. Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard: This keyboard is known for its compact size, making it perfect for travel. It features a multi-device function, allowing you to switch between multiple devices with ease. It’s also compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. The K380 offers a comfortable typing experience and comes in a variety of stylish colors.
2. Anker Ultra Compact Bluetooth Keyboard: This keyboard is another excellent option for portability. It features a slim design and foldable layout, making it easy to slip into your bag. It boasts a long battery life and offers a comfortable typing experience. While it’s not as versatile as the Logitech K380, it’s a great choice for those looking for a compact and affordable Bluetooth keyboard.
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3. Microsoft Surface Keyboard: If you’re after a more premium feel, the Microsoft Surface Keyboard is a great option. It offers a sleek and stylish design with a comfortable typing experience. It features a dedicated fingerprint reader for added security and has a long battery life. However, it’s not as portable as the other options on this list.
4. Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated Keyboard: This keyboard is a premium choice for those who value comfort and aesthetics. It features a comfortable typing experience, an illuminated backlight, and a multi-device function. It comes with a dedicated number pad, which may be a deciding factor for those who need it for work.
5. Apple Magic Keyboard: If you’re an Apple user, the Apple Magic Keyboard is a natural choice. It seamlessly integrates with Apple devices and offers a comfortable typing experience. It’s a sleek and stylish keyboard with a low profile design. However, it’s only compatible with Apple products.
The best alternative for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors like portability, compatibility, typing experience, and price when making your decision.
Final Verdict
The Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is a solid choice for travelers and anyone seeking a compact and portable keyboard solution. Its design is sturdy, its typing experience is comfortable, and its battery life is impressive. While it might not be the most feature-rich or high-performance keyboard on the market, it delivers on its core purpose of providing a reliable and convenient typing experience on the go. If you prioritize portability and ease of use, the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is a worthy investment.
The Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is a solid option for those looking for a compact and portable keyboard. It’s lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for travel. The keyboard itself is responsive and comfortable to type on, though it may not be ideal for long typing sessions. The Bluetooth connectivity is reliable and the battery life is impressive. However, the price point is a bit high for the features offered. Ultimately, whether or not this keyboard is right for you depends on your individual needs and budget.
If you’re looking for a portable keyboard for occasional use, the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is a good choice. However, if you plan on using it for extended periods of time, you might want to consider a larger, more comfortable keyboard. Overall, it’s a decent option, but it’s not without its flaws.
One of the biggest drawbacks of the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is the lack of backlighting. This can be a major issue when typing in low light conditions. Additionally, the keyboard doesn’t have any dedicated function keys, which can be inconvenient for some users. Despite these drawbacks, the keyboard is still a good choice for those who prioritize portability and compactness.
In conclusion, the Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard is a decent option for those looking for a portable keyboard. It’s compact, lightweight, and easy to use. However, the lack of backlighting and dedicated function keys could be a deal breaker for some. The price is also a bit high, but it’s still a solid choice for those who are willing to pay a premium for portability.
Yasmin 
Hassan