AmazonBasics Bluetooth Keyboard Review & Giveaway

The F1 key serves as a Home button, mirroring the functionality of the iPad’s physical button. Similarly, F2 activates the Search function, launching the iOS search interface. A dedicated On-Screen Keyboard button is also included, allowing simultaneous use of both the physical and virtual keyboards if needed.

Establishing a Connection with the Keyboard

The process of linking the keyboard to your iOS device is straightforward and typically completed within moments. Initially, it’s necessary to invert the keyboard and install the required batteries. Adjacent to the battery housing, you will locate two operational buttons: Power On/Off and Connect. Ensure the batteries are properly inserted, then activate the keyboard’s power, but refrain from pressing the Connect button at this stage.

Next, navigate to the Settings application on your iPad or iPhone. Select 'General' followed by 'Bluetooth', and ensure Bluetooth functionality is enabled. Both your iPad and the keyboard are now prepared for pairing.

Initiating the Pairing Process

Now, activate the Connect button situated on the keyboard’s underside. This action renders the keyboard discoverable for a duration of three minutes. A convenient connection indicator is integrated into the F12 key, displaying a flashing blue LED while the keyboard remains in discoverable mode.

Upon the appearance of “Bluetooth Keyboard” within your iPad’s Bluetooth device list, select it to initiate the connection. A PIN code will then be displayed on the iPad screen; input this code using the keyboard itself and press the Enter key. Successful entry will cause the message to vanish, confirming a successful connection.

Compatibility with Other Devices

Regarding connectivity with devices outside the iOS ecosystem, a successful connection was established with a Samsung Galaxy S II device operating on Android 4.0. However, pairing proved unsuccessful with an older device running Android 2.2. While standard keyboard functions operated correctly with Android, the dedicated media controls exhibited inconsistent performance. Furthermore, the specialized Home, Search, and On-Screen Keyboard buttons were non-functional.

An attempt to connect the keyboard to a Windows 7 laptop was also unsuccessful, though this may be attributable to issues with the laptop itself rather than the keyboard’s capabilities.

Utilizing the AmazonBasics Bluetooth Keyboard

Upon successful pairing, the iPad demonstrates a highly responsive interaction with the keyboard. Characters are displayed on the screen without any perceptible delay, mirroring the experience of using the integrated on-screen keyboard.

However, adapting to the use of this keyboard requires a period of familiarization. Its lightweight and portable nature also contributes to a compact size. Initially, users may find themselves making frequent typing errors.

While Apple’s auto-correction feature is typically relied upon to mitigate such issues, it surprisingly does not function when utilizing this Bluetooth keyboard. Consequently, increased attentiveness is necessary, particularly during the initial stages of use.

With consistent use, however, one will become accustomed to the keyboard’s dimensions. As previously noted, the keyboard operates with minimal noise, making it suitable for use in public environments or shared living spaces.

Media and Special Key Functionality

The keyboard’s media keys and specialized keys integrate seamlessly with the iPad’s operating system. No modification keys, such as FN or Control, are required for their operation; they function directly to manage music and video playback.

Testing was conducted using the iPad’s built-in Music application and the YouTube application, both of which responded smoothly to the keyboard’s controls. A minor issue arose when switching between applications.

Specifically, pausing a music track in the Music app and then transitioning to YouTube resulted in the Play button resuming the paused music instead of initiating video playback. Activating the desired app by tapping the screen is necessary to ensure the media buttons control the correct application.

Additional Button Performance

The Home, Search, and On-Screen Keyboard buttons all perform as expected. The Search button is particularly advantageous, enabling hands-free search functionality.

However, it’s important to note that the keyboard cannot be used to navigate through search results, which somewhat limits its utility in this context.

Remote Control Capabilities

The keyboard does not require close proximity to the iPad for operation. Successful typing was achieved from a separate room, even with a wall obstructing a direct line of sight.

While composing lengthy documents remotely may prove inefficient, this functionality offers potential as a remote control for media playback. It is worth noting that the iPad continues to recognize keyboard input even when locked or in sleep mode.

Is the AmazonBasics Bluetooth Keyboard Worth the Investment?

The AmazonBasics Bluetooth Keyboard presents a compelling option for users seeking portability and convenience. It offers a pleasant typing experience, operates with minimal noise, and remains remarkably affordable. Its compact design facilitates effortless transport.

Despite its slim profile and lightweight construction, the keyboard maintains a surprisingly solid feel, avoiding the impression of fragility. Initial typing speeds may not surpass those achieved with an on-screen keyboard, but the enhanced comfort it provides can demonstrably boost productivity, particularly when composing lengthy documents on a mobile device.

However, the keyboard’s functionality is not extensive. Therefore, it is most suitable for individuals who anticipate frequent typing while traveling or working remotely.

For typical iPad or iPhone usage, including media playback control, the touchscreen interface often proves sufficient, and will likely still be needed intermittently even when the keyboard is connected.

Having considered its features and benefits, information regarding how to acquire this keyboard follows.

Securing an AmazonBasics Bluetooth Keyboard: A Guide to Entry

Step 1: Completing the Giveaway Entry Form

Participants are requested to submit the giveaway form, providing their actual name and a valid email address. This information is essential for contacting winners. MakeUseOf’s giveaways are accessible to participants globally.

A specific giveaway code is necessary to activate the entry form. This code can be found on our official Facebook page and Twitter feed.

The giveaway has concluded. Congratulations to Charlene Coyle, the lucky winner! Those selected have already been contacted by jackson@makeuseof.com. Please reach out before October 20th to claim your prize; requests received after this date will not be considered.

Step 2: Amplifying Your Chances Through Sharing

The entry process is nearly complete. The final step involves sharing this promotional post.

You can share in the following ways:

• Like the post on Facebook.
• Tweet about it on Twitter.
• Share it on Google using the +1 button.

(Please note that sharing does not directly influence point accumulation.)

Participation in this giveaway constitutes agreement with the official giveaway rules.

This promotional event commences today and will conclude on Friday, September 21st. Winners will be chosen randomly and notified via email.

Don't hesitate to inform your network and enjoy the opportunity to win!

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