Review: Atek’s OnBoard Travel Keyboard works great with notebooks
Most laptop computers have smaller keyboards than a standard desktop keyboard especially the new sub-notebooks. When switching between a desktop and laptop computer, many people have trouble with the smaller keyboards and the lack of a dedicated numeric keypad. Atek has taken care of that with its new travel keyboard.
Atek’s OnBoard Travel Keyboard is a full size, portable keyboard designed to be easy to use with your laptop. The keyboard fits into most normal sized briefcases and handbag/totes making it easy to transport with your notebook.
A hard cover that slips easily over the keyboard and wrapped cord protects the keyboard against hard knocks and bangs. The attached USB cord wraps snuggly around three specially notched corners of the keyboard with the plug end fitting tightly into a tray at the top. The cord is a sturdy fabric wrapped cord that is 3 feet long and allows for easy placement while typing.
The keyboard can be tilted for easy typing by placing it in the inverted top cover. A separate inflatable palm 
rest was missing from the review keyboard that I was sent but is supposed to be included in the package. Also included in the package is a soft foldable cover that the keyboard and palm rest can slide into to keep both together and provide further protection.
The OnBoard Travel Keyboard has a 99 key layout versus 104 keys found on a full size keyboard. Most of the keys are full size and have a springy feel to them as you type. The missing keys are the rarely used Print Screen, Scroll Lock, Pause Break, and right side Windows and Control keys.
The function keys at the top and the “PgUp”, “PgDn”, and arrow keys located below the right “Shift” key are all approximately half size but still easy to use. The “Home”, “End”, “Insert” and “Delete” keys are placed over the numeric keypad on the right of the keyboard.
If you prefer to use full sized “Home”, “Insert”, “Delete”, “PgUp”, “PgDn”, “End” and arrow keys, they can be found on the full sized number keypad. With the number lock off, the number keys, become full sized versions of these functions.
The keyboard is sturdy and much easier to use than the reduced keyboards found on most laptops and sub-notebooks. It packs up quickly and easily and is hard to break. The only other piece of equipment you will need is a traveling mouse to make this set up complete.
I have found this keyboard easy to use and easier on my wrists and hands than my laptop keyboard. The quality of the keyboard is good and at $29.95, the keyboard is very affordable.
I would give this keyboard a 4.5 out of 5.
Pros
- Sturdy easy to pack full size keyboard
- Hard cover to protect the keyboard
- Good quality
Cons
- Will not fit into smaller laptop/subnotebook bags
Price: $29.95
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November 19th, 2011
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