Typing or poking on a touchscreen lacks the tactile feel when composing messages. If you agree with this statement, then ThinkGeek and Boxwave have the solution for the tactile freaks, and that is a QWERTY keyboard case for your iPhone. These add-on physical keyboards are cleverly hidden and not only let you type but also act as a case for your iPhone.
ThinkGeek TK-421 Keyboard Case
(photo credit: thinkgeek.com) ThinkGeek TK-421 Keyboard Case | US$49.99 | www.thinkgeek.com
When installed, the iPhone looks just like having a thicker case but when the lower portion is swiveled out, the QWERTY reveals itself and is ready to type in landscape orientation. Though the keyboard is physically attached to the iPhone, the connection between them is wireless via Bluetooth. This means it is taxing on the already poor-performing battery life. TK-421 is available for both iPhone 4 and iPhone 3GS. Unfortunately, 3G users need not apply.
Boxwave Keyboard Buddy iPhone 4 Case
Boxwave Keyboard Buddy iPhone 4 Case | US$69.95 | www.boxwave.com
(photo credit: boxwave.com)
Similar to the ThinkGeek item, except that this item from Boxwave has a slide-out QWERTY keyboard instead. When not in use, the Boxwave Keyboard Buddy iPhone 4 Case also doubles up as an iPhone case. Like the ThinkGeek item, connectivity is via Bluetooth which, again may be taxing on the battery life of the iPhone. The slide-out keyboard has long been commonplace with smartphone, so here’s an item that transforms your iPhone into one, albeit being much thicker. But hey, you got the best of both worlds – protection and a QWERTY keyboard.