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    Keyboard and a Laptop? No external Monitor.

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by graycolor, Feb 26, 2011.

  1. graycolor

    graycolor Notebook Evangelist

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    I really like using the new apple chiclet keyboard. I kind of even like it better than the thinkpad keyboard. I'm now wondering is it possible to use an external keyboard on a laptop?

    Obviously I know it's possible, but is it awkward. I'm talking about using an external keyboard with just the monitor from the laptop no external monitors.
     
    graycolor, Feb 26, 2011
    #1
  2. sgogeta4

    sgogeta4 Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    Unless I'm misinterpreting this, can't you just plug the keyboard into the laptop via USB?
     
    sgogeta4, Feb 26, 2011
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  3. Agent 9

    Agent 9 Notebook Consultant

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    It will be awkward if you are seated further back from your laptop's screen than normal (ie: if you are used to your laptop being right up close to you). It can especially be awkward it you are trying to use them on the go and not at a desk you are stationary at. In truth the only place I like using an external keyboard is when I'm at home at my desk, and that is because I connect up a external monitor -but I only use a backlight keyboard (Logitech Illuminated keyboard -nice white LED backlighting, very nice and thin design)

    But everyone is different; if you really prefer chicklet keyboards, and would be fine carrying it around (it'll probably get scratched up/ abused), then I think it is best you try it out (buy it from a store that will give you 30 days or so to return it; just say it isn't working for what you want it to do)
     
    Agent 9, Feb 26, 2011
    #3
  4. MidnightSun

    MidnightSun Emodicon

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    Very possible. I actually only use my Thinkpad's keyboard when I am on the go. At my desk, I always use an external keyboard.

    You can actually set it up so that such an arrangement gives better ergonomics, such as through the use of this notebook stand, which I got a while back - it's a pretty darn good deal for $24, I think. It elevates a laptop so that the screen is level with your eyes. Although this particular stand comes with a wireless keyboard, you don't have to use it - the stand has a USB hub built-in that you can plug the Apple keyboard into.
     
    MidnightSun, Feb 26, 2011
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  5. miro_gt

    miro_gt Notebook Deity

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    I always have an external keyboard with my laptop. With the current one I have 20" external monitor, KBD, mouse, and DVD ... so the most I use from the actual laptop is the power button :D
     
    miro_gt, Feb 26, 2011
    #5