Can an Android tablet really replace a laptop? | Tech Reddy

Now I am writing this article on an Android tablet Targus Pro–Tek Universal Bluetooth Keyboard. To be honest, I’ve been trying to use a tablet on the go for a long time. I would take it to coffee shops, the library, even airplanes – trying to use the on-screen keyboard. It’s a joke because that pop-up virtual keyboard takes up 60 percent of the screen. So I finally ordered this $65 Bluetooth keyboard to see what it had to offer and how it could improve my typing process.

Backing up for a minute here, my computer has been doing me wrong lately. In need of an upgrade, I dreamed of using an iPad and Apple Magic Keyboard full-time instead of buying a new laptop. I’ve watched countless hours of YouTube videos where people—I purposely sought out other writers who use iPads the same way I do—have tried the same thing, only to find that a regular old computer is much more practical. Still, I had to see for myself. I don’t have an iPad at the moment, so I’m testing it with an 11-inch Android tablet.

My first impression: The Targus keyboard works well, is very easy to set up, and is very comfortable to carry around. I love how slim yet substantial it is and that it connects super fast. But I can see typing on narrow keys getting old very quickly. This also seems to be a temporary solution. I’m actually very impressed with the accuracy of typing on this keyboard. And I love the feel of each keystroke – something you’ll never get with an on-screen keyboard. The keyboard portion of the case is physically independent, movable, and once the cover is open, it magnetically sticks to where you want it. And I love the rubberized corners on the case that hold the tablet. In addition, I can easily rotate the tablet to landscape or portrait orientation. It must be a pleasant surprise. Plus, there’s no need to use a case — you can just put the keyboard on your lap or table and type away.

It’s also a good idea to fold up this keyboard case and put it in a desk drawer when you’re done using it. And I can hold the screen at any angle with the case because it’s in a secure place. In a pinch or when I’m out of town for a week, this system is good enough. I also like that the keyboard can work with my phone. As a writer, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been on the road dictating articles into my phone and then cleaning it all up on my computer. Using this keyboard can eliminate much of this sorting process.

While the Targus keyboard itself is nothing new, the process of using it is for many people. And with the cost of new computers quickly spiraling out of control due to supply shortages, it’s nice to know that there are affordable products like this that can significantly expand the usefulness of a tablet you might not have considered for work.

My verdict after a couple of weeks: This is definitely a fix for my problem. I don’t think I’ve ever used a laptop, even with an iPad and a Magic Keyboard. So the permanent solution for me is to buy a new computer.