The Clicks keyboard case has arrived, bringing a delightful, though not entirely practical, addition to your iPhone experience. This device, which attaches a physical keyboard to the bottom of your iPhone, evokes nostalgia for the BlackBerry era but proves awkward to use, particularly with larger devices like the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
The main issue with Clicks is that iPhones aren’t shaped like BlackBerry devices, which were short, squat, and wide. The weight of the iPhone pulls the case downward, causing a constant fight against gravity while typing. This results in the case wobbling slightly, making it harder to hit the right keys.
Clicks acknowledges this difficulty and offers guidance on its help pages, suggesting a specific holding technique to stabilize the device. Users are advised to cradle the phone, resting the bottom edge on their pinky fingers while supporting the back with their middle and ring fingers. Index fingers can rest on the back or sides of the case. The company warns that gripping the phone at the very bottom can make it feel top-heavy.
However, the phone will feel top-heavy regardless of the grip technique, with the ease of balancing the keyboard dependent on factors like the iPhone model, weight, and the user’s finger length and strength. People with shorter fingers may find it more challenging to cradle the device.
Clicks has attempted to address this balance issue by adding ballast to the bottom of the case. Early users have even considered switching to smaller iPhone models for easier use. An iPhone 13 mini, for example, would be ideal, but it is not supported. The Clicks keyboard case works with iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 models, with the latter supporting the full range of models. The weight of these iPhones varies, and even slight differences matter when using Clicks.
The case includes features like a vegan leather grip pad on the lower back and a slightly textured surface to aid in holding the iPhone upright. Despite these features, using Clicks presents a learning curve, especially for those accustomed to touchscreens. The Clicks website claims that it takes 20 minutes to learn, two hours to become comfortable, two days to master, and two weeks to build muscle memory for the device. This transition may take longer for some users.
The Clicks keyboard produces a satisfying “clickety” sound when keys are pressed, but this could become annoying over time. The case comes in various colors, including the eye-catching “Miami Heat” hot-pink and the more popular “London Sky” gray.
Clicks, co-founded by MrMobile (Michael Fisher) and CrackBerry Kevin (Kevin Michaluk), has seen strong interest and sold out its initial “Founders Edition” devices quickly. The company is raising funds to expand its product portfolio.
Users should handle the Clicks’ USB-C or lightning port with care when inserting or removing the phone to avoid damage. The buttons on the keyboard are well-spaced and clicky, with additional features like a built-in microphone, Shift, CMD, and “123” keys, as well as keyboard shortcuts for iOS.
The size and shape of the Clicks case may be a deciding factor for potential buyers. Its extra-long shape makes it difficult to carry in a pocket or small bag and it does not support MagSafe accessories.
Despite its challenges, Clicks brings a sense of whimsy and cheerfulness. It’s not essential, but at $139 to $159, it appeals to those who enjoy quirky, fun technology products. It’s a niche item for enthusiasts, more art than practical tool.
