When it comes to tablets, keyboards fall into a strange category of accessories. Some find them indispensable, while others prefer the simplicity of touch and stylus interaction for both work and play. However, within this category, there’s a further division: the need for a trackpad. Do you require a trackpad for seamless workflow, or can you rely on touchscreen gestures? The Mokibo Fusion 2.0 keyboard attempts to bridge this gap, offering a unique solution that integrates a trackpad into the keycap surface.
The Mokibo Fusion 2.0 is designed for users who desire a more traditional keyboard experience, particularly when using powerful tablets like the iPad Pro or iPad Air. It’s a compelling alternative to the expensive first-party options like the Magic Keyboard, offering a similar feature set at a fraction of the cost. The Fusion 2.0 boasts a large trackpad, spanning the keycap surface from the return key to the caps lock key. The trackpad functionality is surprisingly effective, handling most single-finger clicks and movements smoothly. However, it falls short when it comes to complex three-finger gestures, like launching the multi-task view or minimizing apps. This is due to the limited vertical space available for multi-finger movements.
Another challenge arises when performing tasks that involve grab-and-drag actions, such as cropping images or selecting text. The Fusion 2.0’s trackpad implementation sometimes struggles with these gestures, partially due to iPadOS’s unique cursor-based interactions. While the trackpad excels at double-click, single tap, and basic scrolling, it requires a bit more finesse for more intricate manipulations. The keyboard’s touch-sensitive surface can also be a double-edged sword. Accidentally brushing against a key while navigating can unintentionally move the cursor, potentially disrupting workflow, especially during document editing. This necessitates a higher level of precision and vigilance when using the keyboard.
Despite these drawbacks, the Mokibo Fusion 2.0 offers several advantages. The trackpad’s size is commendable, rivaling the trackpads found on some modern laptops. Mokibo claims it covers nearly 76% of the keyboard deck. For those who find the touchpad-on-keycaps concept unnecessary, Mokibo provides a solution. By pressing Fn + Caps Lock, you can physically disable the touch-sensitive area. The trackpad is also divided into two halves, allowing you to choose between left or right placement. The sensing area expands automatically depending on the task at hand. For example, if you’re navigating a text editor, the trackpad automatically expands to accommodate cursor movement across the entire line.
In addition to the innovative trackpad, the Mokibo Fusion 2.0 keyboard boasts a few other unexpected benefits. It includes a mechanical select button in the middle of the space bar, offering a physical click experience. This button serves as the left-click equivalent on a standard mouse or trackpad. While this may seem unconventional, it offers a unique alternative to traditional keyboard design. The Fusion 2.0 also seamlessly transitions between touch and type, minimizing errors and offering a comfortable typing experience. The company has redesigned some of the function keys, providing quick access to features like camera control and operating mode switching.
Ultimately, the Mokibo Fusion 2.0 is not a perfect solution but rather a compelling alternative for users seeking a more traditional keyboard experience with a touch of innovation. If you’re looking to experiment with cutting-edge input technology without breaking the bank, the Mokibo Fusion 2.0 is worth considering. However, if you rely heavily on multi-finger gestures or complex manipulations, the Fusion 2.0’s trackpad might not be the ideal solution. It’s important to understand the trade-offs involved with this experimental technology and weigh them against your individual needs.
