Android phone + keyboard combination?

July 13, 2022 8:49 AM

I love the phone-with-a-keyboard thing on my Cosmo Communicator, but it doesn't work as a phone. What should I do instead?

I got the Cosmo because I love using a keyboard to interact with my phone. I do a lot of messaging and writing that is much easier with a keyboard. Unfortunately the Cosmo is too flaky to rely on as a phone, at random times phone calls don't work, text messages can't be sent, &c. It's time to move on.

What should I get that will achieve something similar? I definitely want
- Android phone
- Works for phone calls and texts
- Can be rooted
- Can use a keyboard
- Prefer larger screen

I'm thinking a large-screen phone/phablet plus a bluetooth keyboard with phone stand like this. Is that a good way to go? Are there other options to consider?

Recommendations for a good large-screen Android phone?

posted by medusa to Shopping (7 answers total)

Response by poster: Maybe an Android tablet that can also make phone calls? Is that a thing?
posted by medusa at 9:02 AM on July 13, 2022

The Geyes folding BT keyboard seems to fit the larger devices better since it folds into a "bar" instead of a "block" and unfolds into a built-in stand as well, and much more compact than the Logitech at the same price.
posted by kschang at 10:22 AM on July 13, 2022 [1 favorite]

If you prefer an integrated device, there's this one: Astro Slide 5G Transsformer which should be shipping VERY SOON.
posted by kschang at 10:29 AM on July 13, 2022

As for the Android device itself, Samsung Galaxy Note is still a thing, huge, stylus, etc.
posted by kschang at 11:52 AM on July 13, 2022

Response by poster: If you prefer an integrated device, there's this one: Astro Slide 5G Transsformer which should be shipping VERY SOON.

Thanks for the suggestion. That is made by the same company that makes the Cosmo and the Gemini, both of which I've spent years struggling to use as a phone. I don't think I can do it.
posted by medusa at 12:48 PM on July 13, 2022

Blackberry is still around (barely), and probably well out of date now, even though they've switched to Android with their "Key" series, but last iteration was released in 2018. There was a rumored 5G version, but I think it's dead.

There's the Unihertz Titan, and the new Titan Pocket with smaller size but lesser specs. Other than that there are really no "built-in" keyboards anymore.
posted by kschang at 1:33 PM on July 13, 2022 [1 favorite]

Samsung has several 5G-enabled tablets (note - US Best Buy Link; but should be available in the UK). Add a compact or foldable Bluetooth keyboard and you should be good.
posted by TimHare at 2:21 PM on July 13, 2022