I-O Data keyboard is too small for its own good

(Credit: I-O Data)

The quest for the perfect portable keyboard has seen all manner of designs, whether they fold, roll up, or even glow in the dark. But no one seems to have found the killer solution just yet--and we doubt the latest attempt by I-O Data is the exception.

There's no disputing that this Bluetooth keyboard, which is designed for use with a mobile phone or PDA, is portable enough at 6 by 3.6 inches and only half an inch thick. Those petite dimensions, however, could well be what limits its success. Just look at the picture accompanying this item: Unless the hand model has a dangeously overactive pituitary gland, this is one tiny keyboard.

Making matters worse is its $150 price tag on the Japanese market, far more expensive than many other portable versions. And so far as we can tell, it doesn't even light up.