Verdict
Pros
- Wireless
- Up to 30-metre range without disconnecting
- Perfect for travelling
- Pairs to Android, iOS ,and Windows devices
Cons
- Noisy in use due to imbalance
- Too small to type on
- Can’t use it when charging
Key Specifications
- Review Price: £23.99
- Micro USB charging
- One week battery life
- Folding design
- Supports laptops, iOS, Android and Windows Phones
What is the iClever Portable Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard IC-BK03?
iClever’s Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard is a travel-friendly tablet and laptop accessory that measures only 5.5in wide when folded – that’s the size of an iPhone 6 Plus.
Its sleek metal design makes it look revolutionary. However, there are a few issues that hamper its usability.
iClever Keyboard – Design and Features
When folded, the keyboard is around 3in long and only 5in wide – it’s the size of the keyboard that makes it unique. The folding mechanism – a couple of metal hinges on either side – allow the iClever keyboard to be reduced to a size that will fit nicely into your back pocket, handbag or work bag. It’s light too, weighing in at around 200g.
While its portability is a hit, initially I found that the keyboard’s diminutive dimensions made it somewhat irritating to use. As my primary keyboard, I was constantly hitting the wrong keys – although to be fair, I do have large fingers.
But the iClever keyboard also suffers from a few other niggling issues. First, the Backspace and the right-sided Shift keys are too small.
Second, the keyboard automatically turns off if it’s not in use for 15 seconds. This is particularly annoying if you’re in an environment where you regularly have to stop and start working,
Finally, I found that the hinges on my keyboard were slightly imbalanced, which caused it to consistently knock against the surface of the desk while typing.
iClever Keyboard – Connectivity
If you’re not a laptop user then the fact the iClever keyboard pairs with Android, iOS and Windows tablets is a plus.
The iClever keyboard is also ridiculously simple to set up. Simply hold down the Fn+C buttons; once you see the blue light, just head to your device’s Bluetooth setup and add the keyboard. I found that the keyboard worked up to a range of 30 metres before disconnecting. The keyboard can also be paired with a wireless mouse.
iClever Keyboard – Battery
Modern Bluetooth devices can work for hours or even days. The iClever is no different and will usually last around seven days with constant usage. It’s charged using a basic micro-USB cable.
The only drawback I found regarding the keyboard’s battery is that there’s no indicator to display how much charge is left. This would have been a useful addition.
Should I buy the iClever Portable Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard IC-BK03?
The IC- BK03 is a good starting effort from iClever. However, design issues concerning its hinge and keys hamper its overall appeal.
As a result, unless portability is your ultimate concern, I’d recommend you check out other wireless keyboards.
Verdict
The iClever Portable Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard is pocket-friendly unit that’s let down by a number of design flaws.
Trusted Score
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
