Database Develop

Landscape cradle

Anyone interested?
Simply put I am going to create a mound and cast a landscape sync cradle for the X1 since I don't like the plug a lead in the side approach of the available commercial ones.
I will be willing to make these for people who want them once I have my own one done, and if I have enough taker there will be some economy of scale.
So with that in mind I have a few questions to ask people.
1. Material
(a) Hard material
(b) Rubberised material
2. How much should the X1 be inclined in the cradle?
3. Is anyone interested?
4. Any suggestions about features people would like?

Im very interested.
1. Material should be mixed. The stand itself should be plastic, but the parts that come in contact with the X1 should be rubber, or at least have rubber stands.
2. I think a 30 to 45 degree incline would be good? That should allow for a good viewing angle with and without the keyboard open.
3. Yep
4. Hm.. Maybe somehow accomidate for X1s that use a case? So X1s that have a case can still fit on the stand.
Not exactly sure how that would be done.. maybe some sort of spacer system.
A nice little LED under the stand that projects onto the desk would be a bit flashy and nice >.> (I'm getting this idea from one of Sony's VAIO laptops, the CR or SR.. dont remember which).

sign me up (if it's cheap and you're in the UK)
1: definetly rubber for the mount...the base can be either hard or soft
2: 10 degree of vertical
3: yep
4: must be able to plug headphones in (would like to connect to stereo)

Very good initiative! I have been thinking of doing something similar myself, but if you're on it, would be even better..!
What you should have to make it a good product:
- Make sure the mini-usb is embedded in the cradle, so you let the X1 slide onto it. (obvious one)
- Make sure you can still slide out the keyboard when it's cradled. (see the other threads about carkits for examples how to achieve that)
- Make sure that the sound jack is still accesible.
- Make sure that the X1 sits tightly in it, not being able to wobble.
Then there's some optional things you might want to think about.
- Doesn't matter which materials are used, as it's all plastic, it won't scratch anyway. I wouldn't recommend any rubber types, as it might not slide in and out smoothly.
- If you add some sort of LED light to indicate it's powered (recommended) do make a switch to turn only the LED off. (to use it at night)
- A nice way to add a LED is by making plexiglass bottom. Drill a hole in the center and put 4 LEDs facing all sides of the sheet in that hole, facing outwards. Add another Layer to protect the LEDs and voila, stylish light. Shouldn't be too bright though.
---
More ideas will probably pop up. Some take some effort to implement, but making these things yourself always do take some effort.
If ever you get this done, I'll order three cradles and pay well!
EDIT: Sketch it first and post it so we can evaluate and give feedback!

I'm certainly interested, in either a desk top version or a portable stand.
A portable cradle which could be used on a plane/train table to watch videos. I've seen some plastic holders, but they look cheap.
cwh.

THJahar said:
sign me up (if it's cheap and you're in the UK)
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Click to collapse
I'm not in the UK, but not too far away. I'm in Ireland, I will probably be able post via Royal Mail.

Angelusz said:
- Make sure the mini-usb is embedded in the cradle, so you let the X1 slide onto it. (obvious one)
- Make sure you can still slide out the keyboard when it's cradled. (see the other threads about carkits for examples how to achieve that)
- Make sure that the sound jack is still accesible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, have those ones on my list.
- Make sure that the X1 sits tightly in it, not being able to wobble.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually that doesn't take any effort and the mini-usb helps a lot here.
- Doesn't matter which materials are used, as it's all plastic, it won't scratch anyway. I wouldn't recommend any rubber types, as it might not slide in and out smoothly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The really depends on the hardness. A soft compound will stick, a hard rubber will work fine.
- If you add some sort of LED light to indicate it's powered (recommended) do make a switch to turn only the LED off. (to use it at night)
- A nice way to add a LED is by making plexiglass bottom. Drill a hole in the center and put 4 LEDs facing all sides of the sheet in that hole, facing outwards. Add another Layer to protect the LEDs and voila, stylish light. Shouldn't be too bright though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Definitely won't be in the first design. I'm going to try to keep this as a single cast first time round. Might look at doing it in a later run.
EDIT: Sketch it first and post it so we can evaluate and give feedback!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll see if I can get that done later today.

Alright, fair enough on the plexiglass part. Though my suggestion does keep it fairly simple, as you don't need to cast plexiglass, just use a saw/ viles. It's something I can add myself later though. You'll need to use a screw or something similar for the bottom part anyway, to be able to put in the cable, right?
You're probably right on the harder rubber by the way. It's a good one to try.
On being able to do it in a single cast, I can see how it's convenient, but for design's sake, perhaps it's better (and in some cases easier) to cast it in two parts: The bottom part (with the USB connector, hard, reflecting plastic) and the part that actually holds the X1 (hard rubber) and glue it together with compound glue. If you do that properly it'll look just as good, sit just as tight, but be better! (in my view anyway. ^^)
In the end, it's all your choice though, let us know what you come up with!

Angelusz said:
Alright, fair enough on the plexiglass part. Though my suggestion does keep it fairly simple, as you don't need to cast plexiglass, just use a saw/ viles. It's something I can add myself later though. You'll need to use a screw or something similar for the bottom part anyway, to be able to put in the cable, right?
You're probably right on the harder rubber by the way. It's a good one to try.
On being able to do it in a single cast, I can see how it's convenient, but for design's sake, perhaps it's better (and in some cases easier) to cast it in two parts: The bottom part (with the USB connector, hard, reflecting plastic) and the part that actually holds the X1 (hard rubber) and glue it together with compound glue. If you do that properly it'll look just as good, sit just as tight, but be better! (in my view anyway. ^^)
In the end, it's all your choice though, let us know what you come up with!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All good points, and a helpful discussion for me.
A two part cast is just as easy, it just requires more compounds and more moulds and more time ( I'm not averse to spending more time or createing the extra moulds). A single cast can be done with a recess to take the usb cable and a couple of small self tappers will keep it place. I may be forced for practical reasons to go that way anyway so I'll experiment with both.
For your idea of the plexi parts, I'll have to admit I'm not convinced, cut parts don't usually work out as well as cast ones without a lot of finishing so I'd rather not do that unless it's on the bottom. If I go down the route of LED support I'll most likely cast a translucent part with a colour pigment in it to diffuse the light with space behind/below for the LED.
By the way if I do two parts, they will be either bonded or screwed together, not glued.

Alrighty. Good to see that at least you're willing to try a multi-cast (woo! new terminology!) design. The idea you had with a translucent cast would be even better, but I presumed that to be a very difficult process. If it can be cast, then indeed it'd be better.
And you're right on the finishing of plexiglass, it'd require sawing, viling and sanding, finished by polishing. If you have to make many, it'd indeed by a time-consuming process.
How exactly would you bond stuff together? Screwing speaks for itself. Do realise that compound glue (if you use the right one) kind-of melts the plastics together. In effect, you'll have a bond stronger than screwing.

The bonding method is similar to the chemical weld you describe, just without the solvent. The second part is a wet join to the first which is almost but not quite cured. The advantage is that there is no deformation at all like there is in the chemical weld, and it also produces a cleaner result.
Screwing them has the advantage that a faulty/worn usb cable can be replaced.
The translucent part is easy, it's just clear compound with a pigment in it. The result is similar to a fake jewel.

Sign me up, also!
Depending on final price to Portugal, I would defenitly buy it.
In fact, I could even propose it on PocketPT forum, to buy several in one go, so bringing down mail costs.

reborg said:
The bonding method is similar to the chemical weld you describe, just without the solvent. The second part is a wet join to the first which is almost but not quite cured. The advantage is that there is no deformation at all like there is in the chemical weld, and it also produces a cleaner result.
Screwing them has the advantage that a faulty/worn usb cable can be replaced.
The translucent part is easy, it's just clear compound with a pigment in it. The result is similar to a fake jewel.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very nice. I'm starting to think you're in the business, considering your knowledge on the matter.
Where are you located by the way?

I'm in Ireland.
I'm not in the business, but I have done a lot of fabrication work for custom audio systems in cars in the past and as a result I have a very good knowledge of the advantages of different materials and methods, and the different finishes you can get with them.
Angelusz, I appreciate the input and as a result I'd like to ask if you'd be willing to test and help me refine the prototypes ?

Naturally. How do you suggest I can help? The only thing that might complicate that slightly is that I live in The Netherlands. Perhaps a more direct means of communications would make it easier as well. Any suggestions?

That would be a good start, I'll PM you my email address(es) for now, and we can take that discussion there.

cwh060 said:
I'm certainly interested, in either a desk top version or a portable stand.
A portable cradle which could be used on a plane/train table to watch videos. I've seen some plastic holders, but they look cheap.
cwh.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If I understood that correctly you want a cradle with a removable USB lead, or is it a cradle-like stand you're after ?
Honestly if it's just a stand you want it's probably not worthwhile using anything too fancy and check is good when travelling because breakages are common.
I just had a thought though that might be interesting. A stand with a base that can hold up to two standard batteries in the the base (connected in parallel) that can be used to power the X1 for a long flight/train journey.

im interested, but it would be good if the cradle could be used to hold the x1 landscape and portrait. All that the user would need to do is pick up the phone and rotate it
Ive drew some basic (very basic) sketches:
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Hope you like them. All feed back welcome.

indy.89 said:
im interested, but it would be good if the cradle could be used to hold the x1 landscape and portrait. All that the user would need to do is pick up the phone and rotate it
Ive drew some basic (very basic) sketches:
View attachment 173502
View attachment 173503
Hope you like them. All feed back welcome.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That one is easily doable. It is essentially as you describe it in the images; a holder rather than a cradle from the point of view that it wouldn't be usable as a sync station, but from that POV I think you would find that there are already options that can do what you want, so you might want to examine other options than having me make this. Given the number of units I can do I doubt I would be competitive compared to mass-produced options even if I simply operate at cost.

Good initiative! I'm very interested in the cradlle. The two points I would appreciate is that it can be connected to the laptop/PC for synchronisation and charging. Charging could be via an external or build-in charger, but if that is too difficult or work, charging via USB is also OK.

Cheap 13 dollar case with portrait and landscape stand on Amazon

I just bought a Nook last week and needed a case but didnt exactly want to drop 30 dollars on a case I might not even like.
There were no reviews for this case so I was wary on buying it, it just came in the mail and I can confirm its definitely great.
All the buttons are accessible, the audio speaker is covered however. The picture frame-ish flap to keep it in portrait and landscape modes works great in landscape but its a little low and wobbly in portrait. I'm ok with that though.
There's even a magnet on it to keep it out of the way. All in all I am happy for the price. My screen protector cost more than it.
I cant post links yet because I mostly lurk, but if you google "khomo case nook color amazon" you'll get it as the first result.
Just wanted to pass on a good deal!

Thanks mate,
that looks like exactly what I have been wanting! And $13 - can't beat the price.

Looks pretty nice. Definelty looks worth the admission fee.
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How does the stand work? Does it lock into place somehow? Or does it just "balance"?

liqn7 said:
How does the stand work? Does it lock into place somehow? Or does it just "balance"?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It doesn't show it in the amazon pictures, and I was actually concerned about this too assuming it was just going to flap around and be worthless. Its got a little cloth strap to hold it in place, here are some pictures. (just realized I can add images as attachments.)
Also when its NOT in use there's a magnet on it so it holds it flush against the case.

Thanks for the pics mate! Really helps to explain it.
A few other quick questions if you have time:
1) Hows the build quality? I have a cheap one from ebay which is pretty loose and slides out the top in portrait mode.
2) How useful is the stand in portrait given the low viewing angle?
3) Are there holes at the back for the speaker?
Thanks a heap once again for bringing this case to our attention. I'm in a bit of a pickle at the moment as because amazon doesn't ship directly to me, I have to use a mail forwarder, which makes it something like $31...for that price I was thinking of going with the roocase easy view, especially if the stand in portrait mode doesn't really work properly.
cheers

1) Build quality is alright. Everything is great but the stand in the back is not super strong. Its very snug in the enclosure though.
2)Portrait mode isnt too great, it leans really far back and isnt too stable, landscape is the best really.
3) there are not.
if you have to use a mail forwarder and it comes out to the same price as the roocase, get the roocase. This one is just a cheap alternative for me.

Thanks for the reply
I can get the roocase for $38 delivered, so this is probably not worth it for me.
Cant go wrong if you're getting it for $13 though!
cheers, thanks again.

I had the rooCase and wasn't very happy with it. It wasn't as stable as I thought it should be for the money, and it only handled portrait mode. The hinge started to tear after just a couple of weeks. I must say though that returning it and getting a refund was very easy.

Are you able to type / tap on it in landscape mode, or is it more just for viewing?

Landscap is fine to tap on, though portrait its pretty much going to fall over if you push on it hah.

Here's another case that less than $20 shipped:
http://www.amazon.com/CrazyOnDigita...TF8&coliid=I3RDRQ6QU0UQTP&colid=1RFCYIM3A0T3N
I'm waiting on this guy (not as cheap, but I got 15% by googling "javoedge coupon):
http://www.javoedge.com/reflexeshop/productCatalog/getProduct.do?poid=3171&pbmId=18384
I saw one of their more girly (flowery) cases on Amazon, and even as something I wouldn't have carried around, it struck me as more my style than a lot of what I've seen. I went to the their site, and there are a ton more designs that have that same casual vibe without the flowers.

I have had the Khomo NC case for over a month and wrote the following review on it, which is worth reading so you know the limitations of the case and are not disappointed with the features. I now have three cases and one silicone skin for the thing, plus a minicell foam stand, but I am still looking for the ideal case, which would one that folds to make a portrait or landscape stand and does not add much length or width.
-------
Khomo Nook Color Case
I bought this case for two reasons. One was the size. It is not as large as other book-type folding cases so only adds a little over a half inch to the length and width of the NC so I could still fit it in a pocket, unlike the other two folding cases I have.
The other reason was that this case has a picture-frame type flap that allows the NC to be stood up vertically or horizontally. It is flimsy, but works as long as you don't jab at the NC too hard and knock it over. And a little magnet in the flap keeps it against the case when not in use, which is nice.
Note that the product description says it only works horizontally. You can see that the flap is cut such that it should work vertically, too, like a picture frame. However, the flap is cut incorrectly such that when it is used vertical, it leans and is likely to fall over. Trimming the flap to the correct angle fixed this, though, and then it can be used vertically, but you really have to be careful or it can still fall over due to how small and flimsy the flap is.
The BIG problem with the flap is that it is mounted the wrong way for landscape use if you use a video player or play landscape games like Angry Birds. It puts the NC button on the left which makes the display upside-down since all the android video players and most landscape mode games require that the button be on the right side. That's a big problem and there is no way to fix it. Browsers, email, and other android apps work fine on the NC in landscape mode in either direction, though. Video players inside a browser, like YouTube, work too.
The bottom line is that this case works okay if you don't expect to prop it up while you watch videos (or play games), and since that is the reason most people would buy a stand for this type of device, it's a big fail. But if you don't expect to do this, it works fine as a case and deserves a 3 star rating despite the flimsy and miscut flap since it is handy and does protect the NC. If you want to use a video player or play games while the NC is propped in the case, though, it is a one-star product and you will be returning it as soon as you find that the stupid flap is mounted incorrectly.

phoneturf said:
The bottom line is that this case works okay if you don't expect to prop it up while you watch videos (or play games), and since that is the reason most people would buy a stand for this type of device, it's a big fail. But if you don't expect to do this, it works fine as a case and deserves a 3 star rating despite the flimsy and miscut flap since it is handy and does protect the NC. If you want to use a video player or play games while the NC is propped in the case, though, it is a one-star product and you will be returning it as soon as you find that the stupid flap is mounted incorrectly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's basically my beef with the case.

Again, my case isn't super cheap, but it's cheaper than most of the B&N cases, and working great as a stand. It's more versatile in portrait than landscape mode (landscape the cover flap has to stick out somewhere, either to the side or at an angle), but it stays where you put it.

I like it!

Flip cases that do not cover notification LED, USB and volume rocker

I've searched and searched but so far found nothing perfect.
I'm looking for a case that is thin and protects the screen. Something like the original Samsung flip case, but better designed.
I have some requests that so far have killed ALL the cases I've seen - I found none yet matching all:
Must haves:
1-Notification LED visible as I want to be able to glance at the phone on the desk and be aware of new SMS/calls without having to open it.
2-USB dock accessible as I often charge the phone in places where having the case open wouldn't be handy
3-Volume/Power buttons easily accessible, preferably, exposed directly.
4-Cutout for speaker and mic, so that calls can be maintained after the case is flipped closed.
5-SPen easily accessible.
Nice to have:
6-If possible, it should be vertical-oriented and not be too thick, nor fugly.
So far I found no flip cover that matches at least ALL the first 5 requests. Any suggestions? Thanks.

I have the oem flip cover and although it covers the volume button it is thin and I've had no problem adjusting the volume while it's closed. I always use it closed when I'm in a call. Keeps my yucky face off the screen.
Just a little input for you in case you haven't actually handled the phone with this flip cover installed.
As far as the led cut out I know I watched a you tube review of a flip cover case that had a cut out for led.I remember because the guy doing the review got it wrong at first and thought the opening was for the camera...then turned the phone over and saw the blinking led...
Trying to remember which case though. Saw it in one of these threads....
Sent From My Ginormous Note 2
*edit*
Btw...oem flip cover does not in any way affect the usb port...

planetbeen said:
I have the oem flip cover and although it covers the volume button it is thin and I've had no problem adjusting the volume while it's closed. I always use it closed when I'm in a call. Keeps my yucky face off the screen.
Just a little input for you in case you haven't actually handled the phone with this flip cover installed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As for the Samsung default case, keeping it closed might be indeed handy while on calls. I have imagined myself holding it with the case on the back but it doesn't seem comfortable. If the volume buttons remain easily pressible even with the cover, I guess I can live with that.
However, the covers block the screen, so during the day at work I will not be able to quickly realize if there is an SMS or other event (we usually have the phones on vibrate and on the desk). Being able to see the led would be great as that would allow to keep the cover closed. Surprising to see how samsung finally added LEDs to SGS3 and Note 2 but didn't bother to make them visible on the case.
Going to try to google some more, perhaps something with a LED cutout shows up.

Found it. I must be bored today!
http://www.examiner.com/review/revi...-couture-leather-case-beige-for-galaxy-note-2
The noreve leather flip case. Has cut outs for all buttons and the led.
It flips vertically instead of to the side...
Link is for a review which also has pics and a video. Looks like they're pricey but very nice quality.
I should probably get off the couch note and actually do something today...
Sent From My Ginormous Note 2

planetbeen said:
Found it. I must be bored today!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks planetbeen, that is exactly the format I was looking for. It is amazing how hard it is to find flip cases with LED cutouts. If the screen is completely covered, I figured having the LED visible would be useful in any case.
about 47 Eur/65 USD. Pricey, but1 the materials look good and there are cutouts for notification LED and even camera. There's even a belt clip option available for 6 Eur. Nice, very nice.
http://www.noreve.com/langue/en/product/Samsung_Galaxy_Note_2_Tradition_leather_case.html

Now that I grabbed the free flip cover from the Facebook promo, when it gets here, I will drill a hole in the cover where the notification light is.

I bought the LGND Premium Hard-Shell Folio It's not too bad. I like. You can kinda see the light come thru center ear mesh hole area.

I took a better look at the Noreve and sadly, it seems they forgot something... there is no cutout for the USB dock. That means you cannot charge the device without opening the flip. Very annoying and not practical in some cases.
Also, the phone cannot be used on calls with the flip closed... there is no cutout for the speaker nor the mic at bottom. Nothing in the designed seemed to make this impossible, but they simply decided not to add it or overlooked the feature.
I guess my search for a flip case with "cut out holes for everything" remains active... there are several cases that have SOME of the features but so far, none with all cutouts.
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Any brand using this layout but adding cutouts for the speaker, mic and USB would make some good money, IMHO...

Beowulf_pt said:
I've searched and searched but so far found nothing perfect.
I'm looking for a case that is thin and protects the screen. Something like the original Samsung flip case, but better designed.
I have some requests that so far have killed pretty much all cases I've seen:
Must haves:
1-Notification LED visible as I want to be able to glance at the phone on the desk and be aware of new SMS/calls without having to open it.
2-USB dock accessible as I often charge the phone in places where having the case open wouldn't be handy
3-Volume/Power buttons accessible.
4-Cutout for speaker and mic, so that calls can be maintained after the case is flipped closed.
Nice to have:
5-If possible, it should be vertical-oriented and not be too thick, nor fugly.
So far I found no flip cover that matches the first 4 requests. Any suggestions? Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Buy any case that you like an use a quality leather punch to achieve your goal. Scared, visit a local leather/craft shop and they will probably do it for you for free.

My modded case!
32str8 said:
Buy any case that you like an use a quality leather punch to achieve your goal. Scared, visit a local leather/craft shop and they will probably do it for you for free.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I tried to do an LED mod on a few cases, but it failed. I used a leather hole punch and got a perfect circle cut out where the LED is. I used ridiculously strong epoxy to glue the metal studs on for a different flare. Also, the weight of the studs really keep it closed (although it really does seem to stay closed nicely. Fits the phone perfectly, very minimal.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AB6VIJK/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i01

Modding the leather is a possibility. Should be easy for the led light, as easy as punching a new hole in a belt. Not so sure about the USB port.
Still, it feels a bit wrong to have that trouble with cases costing a lot of money (like the Noreves) because the manufacturers don't bother to add a little tweak to new models.
If nothing perfect shows up I'll probably go with that approach tho. Don't want to drop the Note and fracture the glass like on my SGS2.

What about this one http://www.mobilefun.co.uk/noreve-tradition-b-leather-case-for-samsung-galaxy-note-2-p37232.htm
Sent from my GT-N7100 using xda premium

jadaress1 said:
What about this one http://www.mobilefun.co.uk/noreve-tradition-b-leather-case-for-samsung-galaxy-note-2-p37232.htm
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Noreve screwed up on all cover designs for the Note 2.
My favorite (model A, with the flip) has no USB/mic/speaker slots.
That side-flip one, model B that you mention, has indeed USB+Led+Mic but has no speaker for voice calls while closed. And as far as I can tell, the volume buttons are also not easily accessible while closed (I use them often while playing audio).
The quest continues. Meanwhile, I got this cheap one that has all the features I need except the LED cutout. Other than that, all buttons/holes are accessible and you can fully use it closed,including for charging and talking. Material is probably nasty, but functionality appears to be better.
Since it costs about $5, drilling the hole won't be as annoying as doing it to $50 covers. :fingers-crossed:

Still no Note II nor case but both should arrive tomorrow. I suspect the case will be acceptable but will not close all that good as it has no magnet.
If anyone else finds one matching those requests on the first post, please share... :fingers-crossed:

The Spigen SGP wallet case is the best case I currently own. It is on the expensive side but it is worth it!

I'd just be happy with a simple "Barely There"-style case that has a slot for credit cards, like the one I had on my GS2.

Going to bump this up a little as I'm wondering if there are more offers in the market now... that is, flip cases with LED holes...

Still nothing good with a LED cutout?

Beowulf_pt said:
Still nothing good with a LED cutout?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im using this one.
http://www.daydeal.com/product.php?productid=76583
No led hole but could be easily made with hole puncher.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app

I've seen flip covers that allow for caller ID and swiping to answer without having to open the case. I'm surprised they do not have an LED cut out though.

Kensington Keyfolio Pro 2 Universal review

tl; dr: The Kensington Keyfolio Pro 2 Universal has a great keyboard, which is easy to touch type on, but the case adds a lot of bulk to the Nexus 10, and is a bit floppy.
This review is going to be similar in vein to the Jalopnik "will it baby?" car reviews. After the arrival of our (human) baby recently, I was looking for a device which I could use to entertain myself and perhaps do (very) light work on while holding the baby. My usual 15" 1920x1080 laptop is great, but is just not manageable with one hand, particularly when the other is holding a squirming infant. I narrowed my choices down to either the Nexus 10 or an 11" chromebook. I decided to get the Nexus 10, mostly because of the existing base of Android apps.
I'm a Unix system administrator so I live at the command line. Hacker's Keyboard with prediction disabled and just the right amount of haptic feedback makes the Nexus 10 a barely good enough ssh terminal. I found that I could carry the Nexus 10 around, but when I had to do some kind of command line thing on a server that I was waiting until I could get back to my laptop, which defeated the purpose of buying a new device. So, I decided I needed a bluetooth keyboard case.
Reading the forum here and other reviews, it became clear that the same keyboard used in very similar cases by Poetic, MoKo, and others was not that good. I already have a difficult to type on bluetooth keyboard by Azio. There is also the snap-on style keyboard by MiniSuit and others, which is its own case, and the tablet is supported in a groove. That also gets mediocre reviews. To me, it appears to perhaps be a quality issue, in that some people say it holds their tablet securely and works well, while others say that they tablet is loose. Re: the squirmy infant, I need something that holds the tablet well enough that a wayward foot won't cause adult crying.
I settled on the Kensington Keyfolio Pro 2 Universal. Mostly because I could get it locally from Walmart for $60 (using site-to-store, because it's $90 in store, but $60 online). Then, if I didn't like it I could easily return it, and still be testing it in the return window for the Nexus 10 itself.
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The keyboard is the best part of this case. It has smaller than standard chiclet style keys, but is very easy to touch type on. The keys are pretty much all in the standard places. No page-up/page-down or home/end, but arrows, ctrl, alt, and some Android specific keys are there. With no special apps to handle a hardware keyboard the special keys for home, back, search, menu, volume+, volume-, and contacts all work perfectly. The keys for email, web, music, and mute do not work. The gap between the keys is just large enough for me to not hit multiple keys by accident, which was my biggest complaint about the Azio keyboard. One handed typing (in my case the other hand is baby managing) is as passable as can be expected for somebody who is a quick touch typist. The keyboard being small actually helps, and the hard keys are easier to use than on screen ones.
The keyboard works great in VX ConnectBot while ssh-ed to a Unix server. Control, Alt (meta), Escape, and the arrow keys all work as expected once I enabled the hardware keyboard option in VX ConnectBot. Running emacs in an ssh session is a total non-issue, and works perfectly.
The case is the low point of this setup. It's not terrible, but isn't everything I could want. The keyboard is removable and attaches by magnets into the case. It is very secure, and doesn't easily pop out, which is something I was worried about. Unfortunately with the strong keyboard magnets, there is no magnet to sleep the Nexus 10. Perhaps when I get a chance I'll pull apart an old hard disk and put a magnet in the right spot.
The Nexus 10 is held in by velcro backed rubber pieces which hold the corners. It was a bit fiddly to get the Nexus 10 installed, and if you're OCD you'll spend lots of time getting it centered and straight. I didn't really care, so it's just stuck in there. In the baby related upsetting of the case and tablet, it's not fallen out. One of the rubber pieces does cover the sleep/wake/power button in the corner. It can still be activated by pressing the rubber piece itself. The volume rocker is unobstructed. Fortunately, once the keyboard is paired, pressing any key will wake the tablet. If left on, the keyboard will go to sleep, so the first keypress will wake the keyboard, and the second will wake the tablet.
When closed, the case is about 1.5" thick, and total weight is 2.66 pounds. The rubber corner pieces seem to keep the keys from hitting the screen.
There is an elastic strap to keep it closed. I won't worry about sticking it in my motorcycle luggage when I'm back at work.
The case is lapable. It's floppy, so your lap will have to be somewhat level, because if it tilts too far back, the Nexus 10 will fall backwards. There is velcro at the bottom edge of the Nexus 10 vertical which holds it to the horizontal piece of the case. Where you attach it allows a bit of adjustment of the viewing angle. The screen on the Nexus 10 is so good, that a few degrees of difference doesn't matter for viewing. The hold is not strong enough to allow great one handed moving of the case in the open position. It will flop into a completely horizontal position, and will pop back upright when set on a solid surface.
In summary, will it baby? The case can hold the tablet in a reading position next to me on the couch while both hands are involved with the baby. It is easy to type on with both hands. When one hand is available, it can be moved to my left or right with some flopping and adjustment.

I'm posting a brief followup after having the keyboard for nearly four weeks. When I first got it I charged it to full, and have not recharged it since then. I leave it on all the time and let it go to sleep on its own. I use it everyday, often for several hours, and the power light just now began to flash, indicating a low charge. I think that is excellent battery life.
Some reviews of other bluetooth keyboards report that keys will repeat. Occasionally this one does that, but turning the keyboard off and on again fixes the problem. It doesn't happen very frequently, and is easy to fix when it does.
A more worrisome problem is that the glue connecting the velcro to the rubber corner pieces has weakened, letting the rubber pieces slide off the velcro. I've seen that others have reported similar problems with this case. If it continues to be an issue, I'll have to contact Kensington to see what they're willing to do about it.

Followup followup:
It's been a while, but I thought I'd add this to the record, just for completeness. The glue holding the velcro to two of the corner pieces weakened and the velcro slid off. I re-glued the velcro with Barge glue, and it hasn't come off since. I contacted Kensington about the problem, and they sent me a whole new Keyfolio case without any hassle, so now I have a spare.
In the end, Kensington stood behind their product, though I'm sure the new one has the same design flaw of poor quality glue.

Goodby Samsung Keyboard .... Hello Aftermarket

The Samsung keyboard is just a horrible design. The keyboard itself has a nice feel, but the way it attaches to the tablet and that backing that attaches to the tablet, it's just an accident waiting to happen. Mine was so glued to the back of my tablet I though I was going to bend the tablet getting it removed and in the end I had to use a plastic guitar pick to work it apart.
So I found this aftermarket keyboard (and case) on Amazon today:
https://www.amazon.com/Keyboard-Touchpad-Detachable-Wireless-Bluetooth/dp/B07X3D5H4R
Looks ideal to me. Going to take Samsung's keyboard back today.
I also picked up this case:
https://www.amazon.com/Infiland-Multiple-Samsung-SM-T860-Charging/dp/B07X1J2Y5Q/
I'm very pleased with it. I like that it folds over the end. A lot like the original Galaxy Tab S case that I had and that I really liked. Except this one protects the tablets edges and corners better.

I had one of those for the s3, the issue though they are nice keyboards is the battery doesn't last unless you turn it off constantly when not in use and you need to charge separately. With the s6 I want something that keeps the s-pen in place as well and all these cases rely on the magnet(poor design from samsung). I like the back kickstand piece, tho I agree the keyboard should have better attachments(better magnets and and a snap).

Keyboard case
Hi ChrisDos
If you have already bought the keyboard case with touchpad, kindly share your feedback on the same. Planning to buy one to go with my tab s6.

ChrisDos said:
The Samsung keyboard is just a horrible design. The keyboard itself has a nice feel, but the way it attaches to the tablet and that backing that attaches to the tablet, it's just an accident waiting to happen. Mine was so glued to the back of my tablet I though I was going to bend the tablet getting it removed and in the end I had to use a plastic guitar pick to work it apart.
So I found this aftermarket keyboard (and case) on Amazon today:
https://www.amazon.com/Keyboard-Touchpad-Detachable-Wireless-Bluetooth/dp/B07X3D5H4R
Looks ideal to me. Going to take Samsung's keyboard back today.
I also picked up this case:
https://www.amazon.com/Infiland-Multiple-Samsung-SM-T860-Charging/dp/B07X1J2Y5Q/
I'm very pleased with it. I like that it folds over the end. A lot like the original Galaxy Tab S case that I had and that I really liked. Except this one protects the tablets edges and corners better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually came here to ask about that exact keyboard case. I also have the OEM Samsung keyboard case, and I actually like it (I'm using it to type on right now), but want some options with different style cases, since the OEM case isn't very protective, and I just like to switch it up every once in a while. Also the flexibility to move the keyboard away from the screen when I type would be nice sometimes, and i can use it with other bluetooth devices, such as my Note 10+ when I'm using DeX.
And yes, the OEM case is stuck on almost too well. Others complained about it not sticking...well, after about a day, I noticed it was just SLIGHTLY off center with the camera lens. It didn't hurt anything, but my OCD kicked. Holy shirt, I almost broke the hinge prying it off. I actually heard the hinge pop, and thought I had just broken my $180 case.
How do you like the aftermarket keyboard and case? How does the typing and the trackpad compare to the samsung version? Any complaints?
The only thing I think I would miss would be the kickstand from the Samsung case. I'm a police officer and can actually hang the tablet from my steering wheel with the Samsung kickstand and type reports (obviously not while I'm driving, LOL). I also use it as kind of a handle to hold the tablet in portrait mode when writing notes with the S-Pen or just surfing the internet.

Mr. Orange 645 said:
I actually came here to ask about that exact keyboard case. I also have the OEM Samsung keyboard case, and I actually like it (I'm using it to type on right now), but want some options with different style cases, since the OEM case isn't very protective, and I just like to switch it up every once in a while. Also the flexibility to move the keyboard away from the screen when I type would be nice sometimes, and i can use it with other bluetooth devices, such as my Note 10+ when I'm using DeX.
And yes, the OEM case is stuck on almost too well. Others complained about it not sticking...well, after about a day, I noticed it was just SLIGHTLY off center with the camera lens. It didn't hurt anything, but my OCD kicked. Holy shirt, I almost broke the hinge prying it off. I actually heard the hinge pop, and thought I had just broken my $180 case.
How do you like the aftermarket keyboard and case? How does the typing and the trackpad compare to the samsung version? Any complaints?
The only thing I think I would miss would be the kickstand from the Samsung case. I'm a police officer and can actually hang the tablet from my steering wheel with the Samsung kickstand and type reports (obviously not while I'm driving, LOL). I also use it as kind of a handle to hold the tablet in portrait mode when writing notes with the S-Pen or just surfing the internet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First, thanks for being a first responder. Not enough people appreciate how hard your job is. Thank you.
As for the keyboard, I've very happy with it. Actually has a better typing experience than the Samsung keyboard. The keys have a scissor switch underneath. I found the case a bit too thick with the keyboard in there, but it was very well protected and there was a good gap to protect the screen. I'm carrying a USB-C to USB-C cable with me and I can use it to charge the keyboard from the tablet if necessary. Only down side to the keyboard is mine has a slight twist in it because it is so thin and it's made of plastic. Does not affect typing for me at all.
Since the keyboard can be separate from case, I'm actually using this case with the keyboard:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07X1J2Y5Q
There is enough room with the case for it to lay flat and for me to type just fine.
Over all, I much prefer this setup over the Samsung design.

ChrisDos said:
First, thanks for being a first responder. Not enough people appreciate how hard your job is. Thank you.
As for the keyboard, I've very happy with it. Actually has a better typing experience than the Samsung keyboard. The keys have a scissor switch underneath. I found the case a bit too thick with the keyboard in there, but it was very well protected and there was a good gap to protect the screen. I'm carrying a USB-C to USB-C cable with me and I can use it to charge the keyboard from the tablet if necessary. Only down side to the keyboard is mine has a slight twist in it because it is so thin and it's made of plastic. Does not affect typing for me at all.
Since the keyboard can be separate from case, I'm actually using this case with the keyboard:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07X1J2Y5Q
There is enough room with the case for it to lay flat and for me to type just fine.
Over all, I much prefer this setup over the Samsung design.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you, I appreciate that.
I was actually considering that same idea...USB C to USB C to charge the keyboard on the go when needed. The Tab S6 battery is big enough, I don't think it would greatly impact battery life for me.
And I actually have that same Infiniland case. Bought it as a temporary solution to protect the tablet until the keyboard case arrived (though as i said, it doesn't really offer much protection).
I think you've convinced me to pull the trigger. Now...black or grey...Hmmm....

ChrisDos said:
The Samsung keyboard is just a horrible design. The keyboard itself has a nice feel, but the way it attaches to the tablet and that backing that attaches to the tablet, it's just an accident waiting to happen. Mine was so glued to the back of my tablet I though I was going to bend the tablet getting it removed and in the end I had to use a plastic guitar pick to work it apart.
So I found this aftermarket keyboard (and case) on Amazon today:
https://www.amazon.com/Keyboard-Touchpad-Detachable-Wireless-Bluetooth/dp/B07X3D5H4R
Looks ideal to me. Going to take Samsung's keyboard back today.
I also picked up this case:
https://www.amazon.com/Infiland-Multiple-Samsung-SM-T860-Charging/dp/B07X1J2Y5Q/
I'm very pleased with it. I like that it folds over the end. A lot like the original Galaxy Tab S case that I had and that I really liked. Except this one protects the tablets edges and corners better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just wondering if this keyboard has the Dex button for when you use Dex? If not how is it launched...Just by hitting the icon on the screen?

Jeffro64 said:
Just wondering if this keyboard has the Dex button for when you use Dex? If not how is it launched...Just by hitting the icon on the screen?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is no button for Dex on the keyboard. I just touch/click the icon on the screen. I think it's also possible to have Dex launch on it's own once it detects the physical keyboard as I think I remember turning on that option in the Dex settings.

ChrisDos said:
There is no button for Dex on the keyboard. I just touch/click the icon on the screen. I think it's also possible to have Dex launch on it's own once it detects the physical keyboard as I think I remember turning on that option in the Dex settings.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That works for me...Thanks!

ChrisDos said:
The Samsung keyboard is just a horrible design. The keyboard itself has a nice feel, but the way it attaches to the tablet and that backing that attaches to the tablet, it's just an accident waiting to happen. Mine was so glued to the back of my tablet I though I was going to bend the tablet getting it removed and in the end I had to use a plastic guitar pick to work it apart.
So I found this aftermarket keyboard (and case) on Amazon today:
https://www.amazon.com/Keyboard-Touchpad-Detachable-Wireless-Bluetooth/dp/B07X3D5H4R
Looks ideal to me. Going to take Samsung's keyboard back today.
I also picked up this case:
https://www.amazon.com/Infiland-Multiple-Samsung-SM-T860-Charging/dp/B07X1J2Y5Q/
I'm very pleased with it. I like that it folds over the end. A lot like the original Galaxy Tab S case that I had and that I really liked. Except this one protects the tablets edges and corners better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I want the "case" half of the keyboard case. I won't use the keyboard at all. I also don't have an issue where I'd need to protect the screen. The reason I want that case part 8s because of the angles we can have the tablet, could you tell me how well that kick stand works? Thanks mate

le0.br4zuc4 said:
So I want the "case" half of the keyboard case. I won't use the keyboard at all. I also don't have an issue where I'd need to protect the screen. The reason I want that case part 8s because of the angles we can have the tablet, could you tell me how well that kick stand works? Thanks mate
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Each case is similar. The keyboard case though has a few slots it more or less wants to be put in. The Infinland case has grippy feet on the bottom to let you put it at many angles.

Have you noticed any issues with the S Pen while using this case? It seems like all the other third party keyboard cases I've seen have magnets in them that can pull the pen a little in certain spots.

ChrisDos said:
The Samsung keyboard is just a horrible design. The keyboard itself has a nice feel, but the way it attaches to the tablet and that backing that attaches to the tablet, it's just an accident waiting to happen. Mine was so glued to the back of my tablet I though I was going to bend the tablet getting it removed and in the end I had to use a plastic guitar pick to work it apart.
So I found this aftermarket keyboard (and case) on Amazon today:
https://www.amazon.com/Keyboard-Touchpad-Detachable-Wireless-Bluetooth/dp/B07X3D5H4R
Looks ideal to me. Going to take Samsung's keyboard back today.
I also picked up this case:
https://www.amazon.com/Infiland-Multiple-Samsung-SM-T860-Charging/dp/B07X1J2Y5Q/
I'm very pleased with it. I like that it folds over the end. A lot like the original Galaxy Tab S case that I had and that I really liked. Except this one protects the tablets edges and corners better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that kb case looks nice but i cant see a couple things mentioned about it, 1 how does it charge, is it micro or usbc? are the key back lit at all, if so what control is there and are they rgb?

Samsung's Keyboards are terrible and over priced. When I got my Tabs4 this is what I did. Got The Samsung Book Cover without Keyboard. Then I bought an Illuminated Logitech Keyboard and Mouse which have been excellent. Both are Bluetooth and have no problems. Got my S6 coming in tomorrow and planning on using Keyboard and Mouse with that as well. Both can control up to 3 devices.
Logitech K810 Illuminated Keyboard
https://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/bluetooth-illuminated-keyboard-k810?crid=27
Logitech MX Anywhere 2S Mouse
https://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/mx-anywhere-2s-flow?crid=7

mark2410 said:
that kb case looks nice but i cant see a couple things mentioned about it, 1 how does it charge, is it micro or usbc? are the key back lit at all, if so what control is there and are they rgb?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Think it's charged by microusb (looks like a keyboard I already have and think I see a microusb port at the side bottom right). No backlit from what I can see....
Paul_Deemer said:
Samsung's Keyboards are terrible and over priced. When I got my Tabs4 this is what I did. Got The Samsung Book Cover without Keyboard. Then I bought an Illuminated Logitech Keyboard and Mouse which have been excellent. Both are Bluetooth and have no problems. Got my S6 coming in tomorrow and planning on using Keyboard and Mouse with that as well. Both can control up to 3 devices.
Logitech K800 Illuminated Keybpard
https://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/bluetooth-illuminated-keyboard-k810?crid=27
Logitech MX Anywhere 2S Mouse
https://www.logitech.com/en-us/product/mx-anywhere-2s-flow?crid=7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, the big advantage of the samsung keyboard cover is the integrated keyboard solution... I don't want to run around with 3 seperate items . I do find it to work pretty decent and pleasantly...
Do agree it;s (way) overpriced though. Then again, spending even more on those seperate devices doesn't sound like the greatest solution for me...

Yeah I guess it depends what you use it for. I don't have a computer anymore so In the Morning I surf the Web and it really nice to have the seperate keyboard and mouse. And they can hold a charge for a week or two depending how how much you use em. Then when I go to work I just take the Tab so I can watch Football and Movies.
But really that keyboard is only a little bit wider than the tablet. It's not a full size keyboard but it's much nicer to type on. Just sharing my experience and what I use. Everyone will be different.

mark2410 said:
that kb case looks nice but i cant see a couple things mentioned about it, 1 how does it charge, is it micro or usbc? are the key back lit at all, if so what control is there and are they rgb?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It charges with a USB-C cable. Keys are not back lit.

I've bought one off of eBay for £20 - I only got it today, so haven't had a lot of time to test it out, but it does seem pretty good. For £20 I thought I couldn't go to wrong. The only problem I've noticed so far is some of the special characters aren't where they should be, but that's not particulary a deal breaker for me. The backlight is pretty cool on it too and the case is perfect for what I needed really. Link below is anyone is interested.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/For-Sams...=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&

There is a lot of hyperbole going on in this thread IMO.
I find the OEM keyboard has the following advantages:
(1) the physical connection via pogo pins allows instant response without worry about bluetooth sleep feature timeouts. For me this is a huge advantage over every bluetooth anything I have ever used.
(2) the kick stand is very dependable if you attach it correctly and the ability to keep the kickstand while also removing the keyboard is aces.
The OEM keyboard has the following disadvantages:
(1) The trackpad does not recognize a light double-tap as being a touch+drag the way a PC trackpad usually would. So resizing windows and dragging +dropping is awkward and best relegated to the touch screen (or an actual mouse).
(2) The number row is the wrong size.
(3) The arrow keys should be an inverted T and they are not.
Otherwise it is fine. Expensive for something which is only fine but I seriously cannot stress how much better the pogo pin connection is compared to bluetooth. Your mileage may vary but this keyboard IMO is fine and does improve the tablet experience.

anyone ever tried this case/kb? https://www.logitech.com/en-roeu/product/ultrathin-keyboard-folio-galaxy-tab4-10?crid=1221
im guesing it doesnt fit but looks great, or maybe they are doing an s6 version?