A few weeks ago on this site I reviewed ThinkGeek's TK-421 Bluetooth keyboard case for the iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4. Since then I've had a chance to test the MiniKey, a similar product from NUU. NUU's publicity states that the company is dedicated to producing innovative smartphone accessories that ‘provide convenience to the consumer'. Does the MiniKey live up to these worthy goals and how does it compare with ThinkGeek's competing product?
Although NUU doesn't call it a keyboard case, the MiniKey, like the TK-421, is a keyboard to which an iPhone can be attached. Both devices are roughly the same length and width as an iPhone and consist of two parts: a keyboard and a cradle-like case that is designed to permanently hold the phone (calling it a case is not entirely accurate because it only covers the back and sides of the phone). The MiniKey has several design differences from the TK-421, though. For one thing, it is only officially compatible with the iPhone 4. It can be used with a 3GS (and possibly other iOS devices that have Bluetooth capability) but with limitations.
The reason why the MiniKey is said to be designed for the iPhone 4 is because the case is molded to fit that device's profile. The iPhone 3GS is a different shape from the iPhone 4 and is too wide to fit in the MiniKey's case. However, the MiniKey can be used as a keyboard without attaching the phone. I tried using a 3GS by holding the MiniKey in one hand and positioning the phone where I could see the screen. I also used the MiniKey with the phone sitting loosely inside the cradle in a slightly inclined position that was conducive to typing. It might have looked odd to anyone around me but it worked.
Carrying the MiniKey around detached from the phone was a favorable option for me because I like to keep my phone inside a heavy-duty Otter Box case. It did seem like I had a second iPhone in my pocket. It felt less bulky and less likely to break than the TK-421 when carried without the phone attached. NUU's product is made of a rubberized material that feels solid and resistant to scratching. Also, it doesn't slip around as much as the TK-421 if you are typing on a smooth surface.
The design of the MiniKey integrates well with the iPhone 4 and has a smaller footprint than ThinkGeek's product when open. Unlike the keyboard on the TK-421, which rotates out from under the attached case on a spindle, the keyboard on the MiniKey slides directly out from under the case. When fully exposed it is held in place by magnets and measures about two-thirds of the width of the phone. This makes the MiniKey's keyboard much smaller than that of the TK-421. Consequently, there are fewer keys and the keys that are available are smaller.
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