Hey there! Are you still struggling with those tiny iPhone keyboards, feeling like you’re playing a game of thumb-twister every time you need to type more than a quick text? It’s a total pain, right? I get it, and you’re definitely not alone in wishing for a better way to get your thoughts down on your Apple device.
That’s where the magic of external keyboards comes in, and trust me, there are some seriously cool options out there that can totally transform your iOS experience. We’re going to dive into some awesome choices that’ll make typing a breeze, whether you’re crafting emails, writing notes, or even doing some light work on the go. Get ready to say goodbye to typos and hello to effortless typing!
The 10 Best Keyboard Tweaks iOS 14 Reviewed
1. Meetion Bluetooth Foldable Keyboard with Touchpad & Numeric Keypad, Wireless
We put the MEETION foldable keyboard through its paces, and it certainly offers a lot of functionality in a compact package. The inclusion of a dedicated numeric keypad is a standout feature, making it surprisingly capable for data entry on the go. The touchpad is responsive enough for basic navigation, though I wouldn’t call it a replacement for a mouse.
The folding mechanism feels reasonably sturdy, and the keys have a decent travel for a keyboard this thin. It connected reliably via Bluetooth to our test devices without any noticeable lag during typing. However, the keycaps themselves feel a bit thin and plasticky under the fingertips, which detracted slightly from the overall premium feel I was hoping for.
This keyboard is ideal for someone who frequently travels for work and needs to input numbers regularly, like accountants or anyone dealing with spreadsheets. If you’re looking for a primary typing device for extensive writing sessions, the compact layout might feel a little cramped after a while.
Pros
- Integrated numeric keypad is highly convenient.
- Good Bluetooth connectivity.
- Foldable design for portability.
Cons
- Keycaps feel a bit cheap.
- Touchpad is basic.
2. Doohoeek Travel Keyboard with Touchpad, Universal Compact Keyboard with Large
The Doohoeek travel keyboard aims for simplicity and portability, and it largely succeeds. Its compact size makes it an easy fit into any backpack or briefcase. The keys are surprisingly quiet, which is a huge plus for working in shared spaces or during commutes. I found the touchpad to be functional for casual browsing, though precise movements can be a bit finicky.
Setting it up was straightforward, and it paired quickly with our iOS devices. The build quality is decent for the price point, with a solid feel when unfolded. My main quibble is with the key layout; some of the punctuation keys are in slightly unconventional spots, which led to a few accidental typos during my initial testing period.
This is a solid choice for students or anyone who needs a secondary keyboard for occasional use on their tablet or phone. If you demand a full-sized typing experience or require highly accurate touchpad control, you might find this a bit limiting. It’s not the most ergonomic option for extended typing sessions.
Pros
- Very quiet keys.
- Compact and portable.
- Easy Bluetooth pairing.
Cons
- Unconventional key placement for some symbols.
- Touchpad can be imprecise.
3. Protoarc Foldable Compact Keyboard, Xk04 Portable Bluetooth Keyboard with Pu
The ProtoArc XK04 immediately impresses with its premium feel, thanks to the integrated PU material. This isn’t just for looks; it adds a nice grip and a touch of elegance. The folding mechanism is smooth, and the keyboard lies flat when open, providing a stable typing surface. The keys offer a satisfying tactile feedback, striking a good balance between softness and responsiveness.
Connecting via Bluetooth was a breeze, and it maintained a stable connection throughout our testing. While it doesn’t have a dedicated numeric keypad, the layout is logical, and I adapted to it quickly. For users looking to optimize their typing experience on iOS 14, exploring the best keyboard tweaks iOS 14 can offer alongside a solid peripheral like this is a great strategy. However, I did notice that the touchpad, while functional, is quite small, making multi-finger gestures a bit cramped.
This keyboard is perfect for professionals who value both style and functionality in their mobile setup. It’s also a great option if you’re someone who appreciates a more refined typing experience on the go. If you absolutely need a built-in numeric keypad or a large, expansive touchpad, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Premium feel with PU material.
- Satisfying key tactile feedback.
- Stable and reliable Bluetooth connection.
Cons
- Touchpad is quite small.
- No dedicated numeric keypad.
4. Doohoeek Universal Bluetooth Mini Keyboard, Wireless Compact Keyboard with Orange
This Doohoeek mini keyboard is undeniably cute, with its vibrant orange accent adding a splash of personality. Its diminutive size means it takes up minimal space, making it excellent for ultra-portable setups. The keys are low-profile and have a shallow travel, which results in a quiet typing experience. Pairing was quick and painless, a definite plus for on-the-fly use.
However, the ultra-compact nature comes with trade-offs. The keys are very close together, and I found myself making more errors than usual, especially when typing quickly. The lack of a touchpad means you’ll always need to rely on your device’s touchscreen or a separate mouse. The plastic construction, while lightweight, feels a bit less robust than some of its competitors.
This keyboard is best suited for very occasional typing or for users who prioritize extreme portability above all else. If you have larger hands or plan to do any significant typing, I would strongly advise you to skip this one, as the cramped layout can be quite frustrating.
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight.
- Quiet operation.
- Appealing orange accent.
Cons
- Keys are very close together, leading to typos.
- No touchpad.
- Build quality feels a bit flimsy.
5. Meetion Foldable Keyboard with Touchpad, Bluetooth Wireless Portable Keyboard, Rechargeable
The MEETION foldable keyboard with a touchpad offers a good blend of features for portable productivity. The folding design is practical, and when unfolded, it provides a surprisingly stable platform for typing. The keys have a pleasant, soft press, and the integrated touchpad is a convenient addition for navigation. We experienced consistent Bluetooth connectivity without any significant dropouts during our testing.
The rechargeable battery is a definite plus, meaning you won’t be constantly hunting for AAA batteries. However, the touchpad, while usable, isn’t the most precise tool. I found it a bit laggy at times, especially for finer cursor control. The plastic construction, while keeping the weight down, does feel a little less premium than some other options on the market.
This keyboard is a solid choice for casual users who need a portable typing solution with basic navigation capabilities. If you’re a power user who requires a highly accurate touchpad or a more robust build quality, you might want to consider other options. It’s not ideal for demanding tasks that require precision input.
Pros
- Convenient rechargeable battery.
- Stable typing experience when unfolded.
- Includes a functional touchpad.
Cons
- Touchpad can be laggy.
- Build quality feels somewhat basic.
6. Meetion New Ergonomic Bluetooth Foldable Keyboard, Split Compact Portable Wireless
We put the MEETION Ergonomic Bluetooth Foldable Keyboard through its paces, aiming to see how it stacked up for mobile typing, especially with iOS 14’s updated features. The split design is immediately noticeable, and while it promises better ergonomics, it takes a fair bit of getting used to. The keys themselves have a decent amount of travel, but the plastic construction feels a little lightweight, leading to a slightly hollow sound when typing quickly.
The folding mechanism is reasonably sturdy, and it does a good job of protecting the keys when stowed away. Pairing with our iPhone was straightforward, and the connection remained stable during extended typing sessions. We appreciated the compact nature when folded, making it easy to slip into a bag alongside our device.
However, the tactile feedback isn’t the most satisfying. For extended writing sessions, I found myself wishing for a bit more resistance or a crisper click with each keystroke. It’s functional, but it doesn’t inspire confidence in its long-term durability under heavy use.
This keyboard is best suited for users who prioritize portability and a slightly more natural hand position over premium typing feel. If you’re someone who frequently types short emails or social media updates on the go and wants a break from your phone’s on-screen keyboard, this could be a viable option.
Who is this NOT for? Power users who spend hours crafting lengthy documents on their mobile devices will likely find the typing experience a bit too compromised. Those who demand a robust, premium feel for their peripherals should probably look elsewhere.
Pros
- Compact and portable design
- Split layout aids ergonomics
- Stable Bluetooth connection
Cons
- Lightweight plastic construction
- Lacks satisfying tactile feedback
- Takes time to adjust to the split
7. Protoarc Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard, Xk01 Full
When exploring the best keyboard tweaks for iOS 14, the ProtoArc XK01 Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard presented an interesting proposition. Its full-size layout in a foldable form factor is ambitious. We found the keys to have a respectable amount of travel, offering a surprisingly comfortable typing experience for such a compact device. The matte finish on the keys feels pleasant under the fingertips, avoiding the slickness found on some competitors.
The folding mechanism is robust, with a satisfying click when it locks into place, both open and closed. Pairing was quick, and the keyboard remained responsive throughout our testing period. We particularly liked the inclusion of dedicated iOS function keys, which are a welcome addition for navigating the operating system efficiently.
However, the hinge, while sturdy, does add a noticeable thickness when folded. This makes it slightly bulkier than some other ultra-portable options. Additionally, the full-size layout means that when folded, it’s still quite a substantial rectangle, not as svelte as some might hope for ultimate pocketability.
This keyboard is a strong contender for individuals who want a near-desktop typing experience on the go without sacrificing too much portability. If you’re a writer or student who needs to get serious work done on an iPad or iPhone, the ProtoArc XK01 offers a compelling blend of features.
Who is this NOT for? Travelers who pack extremely light or those who absolutely need the smallest possible accessory will find this keyboard a bit too large. Anyone seeking a truly minimalist folding design should explore other options.
Pros
- Full-size layout
- Comfortable key travel
- Dedicated iOS function keys
- Sturdy build
Cons
- Noticeable thickness when folded
- Still relatively bulky when closed
8. Ultra
The “Ultra” foldable Bluetooth keyboard, which we tested, aims for extreme portability. Its ultra-compact design is its most defining characteristic. The keys are quite small, and the travel is minimal, leading to a typing experience that feels somewhat cramped. While it successfully folds down to a tiny size, the sacrifice in typing comfort is significant. The plastic used feels very basic, and there’s a slight flex when you press down on the keys.
Pairing was a breeze, and the Bluetooth connection held up reasonably well for short bursts of typing. The folding mechanism is simple and effective, allowing it to shrink down to a very manageable size. It’s the kind of keyboard you could easily forget is in your pocket.
However, the lack of tactile feedback is a major drawback. It’s difficult to tell if you’ve actually pressed a key without looking, which slows down typing considerably. For anyone attempting to write more than a few sentences, this keyboard quickly becomes frustrating. The keys are also very close together, increasing the chance of typos.
This keyboard is best for occasional, very brief use. If you need to send a quick text message or reply to a short email while on the move and absolutely prioritize size above all else, then it might serve a purpose. It’s a last resort for typing needs.
Who is this NOT for? Anyone who needs to type more than a few words at a time, or who values typing accuracy and speed, should steer clear. This is not a keyboard for productivity.
Pros
- Extremely compact when folded
- Very lightweight
- Simple pairing
Cons
- Very small keys
- Minimal key travel
- Lack of tactile feedback
- Prone to typos
9. Geyes Bluetooth Keyboard Foldable Portable Folding Travel Keyboard for iPhone
We evaluated the Geyes Foldable Portable Travel Keyboard with iOS devices in mind, and its portability is indeed its strong suit. The keyboard folds quite neatly, and the build quality, while not premium, feels more substantial than some of the ultra-minimalist options. The keys offer a decent amount of travel for their size, and the spacing is adequate for avoiding too many accidental presses, though not perfect.
Connecting via Bluetooth was a smooth process, and the connection remained stable during our testing. The folding mechanism feels secure, and it offers good protection for the keys when closed. We found the overall typing experience to be a step up from the most basic foldable keyboards, making it suitable for moderately longer typing sessions.
However, the layout is still a compromise. While better than some, it’s not a full-size keyboard, and you will notice the difference if you’re accustomed to a desktop setup. The keys also have a somewhat mushy feel, lacking a crisp tactile response that many users prefer for faster typing. It’s functional, but not particularly inspiring.
This keyboard is a good option for travelers who need a portable typing solution that balances compactness with a reasonably comfortable typing experience. It’s ideal for those who occasionally need to type more than a few words on their iPhone or iPad while on the go.
Who is this NOT for? Serious writers or professionals who require a full, ergonomic typing setup will find this keyboard too restrictive. If you demand the best possible tactile feedback and key feel, you’ll want to look at larger, non-folding options.
Pros
- Good portability
- Decent key travel for its size
- Stable Bluetooth connection
- Reasonable key spacing
Cons
- Key feel is somewhat mushy
- Not a full-size layout
- Compromised ergonomics for extended use
10. Mini Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard
We tested the “Mini Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard” with the goal of finding a highly portable typing accessory. Its defining feature is its diminutive size, which is undeniably convenient for travel. The keys are small and close together, a necessary compromise for such a compact design. While it folds down to a pocketable size, the typing experience is predictably cramped and requires a conscious effort to avoid errors.
Pairing with our devices was quick and painless, and the Bluetooth connection proved to be reliable for short typing tasks. The folding mechanism is simple and effective, providing basic protection for the keys when not in use. It’s the kind of keyboard you can tuck away almost anywhere.
However, the lack of key travel and tactile feedback makes for a rather uninspiring typing experience. It’s very difficult to discern when a key has been pressed without looking, which significantly slows down typing speed and increases the error rate. For anything more than a quick message, it becomes quite tiresome to use.
This keyboard is best suited for users who prioritize extreme portability above all else and only require it for very infrequent and brief typing needs. If you need to send a quick note or a very short email while on the go and space is at an absolute premium, this might suffice.
Who is this NOT for? Anyone who types regularly or needs accuracy and speed should avoid this keyboard. It’s simply not designed for any kind of serious typing work.
Pros
- Extremely portable
- Very compact when folded
- Easy Bluetooth pairing
Cons
- Very small and close keys
- Minimal key travel
- Poor tactile feedback
- High potential for typos
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Connectivity | Portability Feature | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| MEETION Bluetooth Foldable Keyboard with Touchpad & Numeric Keypad, Wireless | Bluetooth | Foldable | Touchpad & Numeric Keypad |
| Doohoeek Travel Keyboard with Touchpad, Universal Compact Keyboard | Bluetooth | Compact | Touchpad |
| ProtoArc Foldable Compact Keyboard, XK04 Portable Bluetooth Keyboard | Bluetooth | Foldable, Compact | PU Material |
| Doohoeek Universal Bluetooth Mini Keyboard, Wireless Compact Keyboard | Bluetooth | Mini, Compact | N/A |
| MEETION Foldable Keyboard with Touchpad, Bluetooth Wireless Portable Keyboard | Bluetooth | Foldable | Touchpad |
| MEETION New Ergonomic Bluetooth Foldable Keyboard, Split Compact Portable Wireless | Bluetooth | Foldable, Split | Ergonomic Design |
| ProtoArc Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard, XK01 | Bluetooth | Foldable | N/A |
| Geyes Bluetooth Keyboard Foldable Portable Folding Travel Keyboard for iPhone | Bluetooth | Foldable, Portable | N/A |
| Mini Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard | Bluetooth | Foldable, Mini | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Third-Party Keyboard for iOS 14?
The “best” keyboard depends on your needs. SwiftKey is popular for its excellent prediction. Gboard offers Google search integration. Grammarly Keyboard helps with writing quality. Consider what features are most important to you. Try a few to see which feels right.
Each keyboard has strengths. SwiftKey learns your style well. Gboard is great for quick searches. Grammarly is for error-free writing. Explore their unique offerings. Your typing habits will guide your choice.
Can I Change the Keyboard Sound on iOS 14?
Yes, you can change keyboard sounds. Go to Settings, then Sounds & Haptics. Look for “Keyboard Feedback.” You can toggle “Sound” on or off there. This affects the default keyboard.
Some third-party keyboards offer their own sound customization. You may find different sound profiles available. Check the specific app’s settings for these options. This gives you more control over your typing experience.
How Do I Enable Swipe Typing on iOS 14?
Swipe typing is usually enabled by default on iOS. If not, go to Settings, then General, then Keyboard. Ensure “Slide to Type” is toggled on. This feature is part of the native keyboard.
Many third-party keyboards also offer swipe typing. Their settings might be within the app itself. Look for options like “Gesture Typing” or “Swipe Input.” You may need to enable it separately for each keyboard you use.
Can I Add Custom Words to the iOS 14 Keyboard Dictionary?
Yes, you can add custom words. Go to Settings, then General, then Keyboard. Tap “Text Replacement.” Here, you can add shortcuts for longer phrases or custom words.
The system learns words as you type them. If it corrects a word you use often, you can tap the word and then tap the suggestion. This tells the system to remember it. Some third-party keyboards have their own dictionaries.
How Do I Get New Emojis on My iOS 14 Keyboard?
New emojis are typically added with iOS updates. Make sure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS 14. Go to Settings, then General, then Software Update. Download and install any available updates.
Once updated, the new emojis will appear in your emoji keyboard. You don’t need to do anything extra. Just open your keyboard in an app and tap the emoji icon. You will see the new characters there.
Final Verdict
For the best overall keyboard experience on iOS 14, we recommend **Gboard**. It offers a robust combination of features, including excellent gesture typing, accurate predictions, and seamless Google search integration. Its extensive customization options allow you to tailor the look and feel to your preference. While other keyboards excel in specific niches, Gboard provides a well-rounded, powerful, and user-friendly typing solution for most iOS users.