Targus Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard AKF 003 Review
Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AKF003US |
| Price | $50-$60 (varies by retailer) |
| Portability | Ultra-compact, foldable design, same size as a smartphone |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1 with memory for up to three devices |
| Compatibility | Works with Chrome OS®, Windows®, macOS®, iPads, iOS®, Android™ |
| Typing Experience | Split, ergonomic keyboard design with satisfying key travel |
| Charging | Micro USB, 100 mAh rechargeable battery |
| Key Features | Function keys, multi-device support, auto on/off mechanism, DefenseGuard™ Antimicrobial Protection* |
| Cons | Dirt-prone material, lacks lap stability, outdated charging port |
| Best For | Travelers, students, remote workers |
Introduction
The Targus Wireless Keyboard AKF 003 Bluetooth is a sleek, lightweight, and portable keyboard designed for efficient typing on the go. It stands out for its ultra-compact, foldable design—comparable in size to a smartphone—and its reliable Bluetooth connectivity, making it a top contender for travelers and mobile users who prioritize portability.
Priced between $50-$60 and available from major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy, this keyboard offers a balance of functionality and convenience. With a slim design, ergonomic features, and advanced connectivity options, it serves as an ideal companion for professionals and casual users alike. Let’s explore how it performs.
Design and Portability
If you’re looking for innovative design and quality craftsmanship, Targus delivers. The standout feature of this keyboard is its ultra-thin, foldable design, secured by a magnetic closure that keeps it compact. Small enough to fit in your pocket, it’s an excellent choice for on-the-go users.
Despite its size, it competes with full-size keyboards in functionality and comfort, thanks to well-spaced keys and a responsive tactile feel that enhances typing accuracy.
The ergonomic, split-keyboard design ensures a natural typing posture, reducing strain during extended use. This layout makes it a great option for long typing sessions without compromising portability.
Beyond portability, the foldable mechanism is designed for durability, making it a reliable choice for frequent travelers, professionals, and students alike.
Verdict: 4.5/5
Typing Experience
The Targus keyboard features a split, ergonomic design that promotes a more natural typing posture and minimizes hand fatigue. The keys provide a satisfying tactile feel, similar to older MacBook Pro chiclet keyboards, with enough key travel for comfort.
The keyboard also includes on-keyboard indicators for battery life and connectivity, allowing users to check status at a glance.
While comfortable for short to medium typing sessions, the angled split keyboard layout may require a few days of adjustment. Once familiarized, users will appreciate the balance between portability and typing efficiency.
Verdict: 4/5
Connectivity and Usability
Pairing the keyboard via Bluetooth 5.1 is reliable, though slightly unintuitive. The pairing process requires pressing a combination of keys (Function + Q, W, or E, followed by Function + Z for one second to enter pairing mode). While the setup may take some getting used to, once paired, the keyboard excels in usability.
One of its standout features is multi-device connectivity, allowing users to switch between up to three devices seamlessly.
Additionally, the automatic on/off feature with magnetic closure ensures the keyboard is always ready for use when opened.
Verdict: 4/5
Build Quality and Materials
Targus integrates DefenseGuard™ Antimicrobial Protection into the keyboard’s surface, ensuring a cleaner working area.
Unlike sprays or coatings that wear off, this antimicrobial additive lasts the lifetime of the product.
Despite its lightweight build, the keyboard feels solid, and the hinge mechanism is sturdy. However, the back material—designed to mimic the premium felt on Surface Pro Type Covers—easily attracts dirt, requiring frequent cleaning.
Verdict: 3.5/5
Charging and Battery Life
The 100 mAh rechargeable battery offers impressive longevity, lasting several days per charge. However, charging via Micro USB feels outdated in today’s USB-C world. While this isn’t a deal-breaker, a future model with USB-C would be a welcomed improvement.
Verdict: 3.5/5
Comparison to Competitors
| Feature | Targus AKF003US | iClever BK05 |
|---|---|---|
| Portability | Ultra-compact, foldable | Foldable but slightly bulkier |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1, multi-device support | Bluetooth, multi-device |
| Build Material | Lightweight plastic, felt-like backing | Aluminum alloy, more durable but heavier |
| Charging | Micro USB | USB-C |
| Best For | Travelers, students, casual use | Professionals needing a rigid build |
The Targus keyboard excels in portability and convenience, while competitors like the iClever BK05 offer a sturdier but bulkier design.
Who Should Buy It?
The Targus Wireless Keyboard AKF 003 is perfect for:
✔ Travelers and digital nomads needing portability.
✔ Students requiring a compact typing tool.
✔ Casual typists who prioritize convenience over heavy-duty performance.
It’s less ideal for those who require lap stability or a long-term heavy-duty keyboard.
Improvements for Future Models
- Upgrade to USB-C for faster, more universal charging.
- Add a dedicated pairing button to simplify Bluetooth setup.
- Improve hinge stability to enhance lap usability.
- Use a more dirt-resistant material on the back panel.
- Consider adding a built-in trackpad for added functionality.
FAQs
Is the keyboard compatible with iPads?
Yes, the Targus Wireless Keyboard AKF 003 works seamlessly with iPads, tablets, laptops, and smartphones that support Bluetooth.
Can the keyboard work without Bluetooth?
No, it requires Bluetooth to function and does not have a wired or dongle-based connection.
How long does the battery last?
It lasts several days on a single charge, depending on usage.
Is the keyboard ergonomic?
Yes, the split, angled design promotes a more natural typing posture, reducing strain over extended use.
Antimicrobial protection is limited to the device itself. This keyboard has been infused with an antimicrobial additive. Active ingredient: Silver Phosphate Glass (nano-). EPA Est/ 99234-CA-1
Tried and Rated 3.9/5
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
The Targus Bluetooth Wireless Folding Keyboard AKF 003 shines as an ultra-portable, travel-friendly keyboard with automatic connectivity, antimicrobial protection, and multi-device support. While it may not be ideal for lap use, its lightweight build and functionality make it a solid investment for mobile users. With its 2-year warranty, Targus ensures peace of mind for buyers.
Pros
- Ultra-Portable & Foldable – Compact design makes it easy to carry.
- Multi-Device Connectivity – Pairs with up to three Bluetooth devices.
- Ergonomic Split Layout – Reduces wrist strain for long typing sessions.
- Reliable Battery Life – Lasts several days on a single charge.
- DefenseGuard™ Antimicrobial Protection – Helps maintain a cleaner surface.
- Auto On/Off Feature – Magnetic closure conserves battery life.
- Well-Spaced Keys – Tactile feedback similar to MacBook Pro chiclet keyboards.
Cons
- Lacks Lap Stability – Foldable hinge makes it unstable on soft surfaces.
- Dirt-Prone Material – The felt-like backing attracts dust and grime.
- Micro USB Charging – Outdated compared to modern USB-C options.
- Slight Learning Curve – The split keyboard layout may take time to adjust to.
- No Dedicated Pairing Button – Requires multi-key combinations for Bluetooth setup.
Compact, Functional, and Travel-Friendly $50-60
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Design and Portability
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Typing Experience
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Connectivity and Usability
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Build Quality and Materials
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Charging and Battery Life