Xbox 360 Text Messaging Kit Reviews

• Not a gimmick, great addon

  
  By A1G2FZWVNQ30NG on 2007-09-13
  The 360 chatpad is a much-needed relief from the thumbstick method of typing messages on Xbox Live.
  
  I have larger hands, so leaving it attached to the controller doesn't bother me while I play games. If you have smaller hands or the chat pad bothers you while playing, you can simply detach or leave detached until you need it to type.
  
  Since it takes up the space on the controller normally allocated to the Xbox Live headset, MS has included a new headset that works with the chatpad.
  
  I found it very easy to type with the chatpad, and overall I think it is a must-have accessory for anyone with a friends list!
  
  The keys light up for easy use in the dark, and there is a one-press MSN button for those that want to chat in between gaming sessions. MS has really outdone themselves on this one. The 360 chatpad is an exceptional accessory for less than the price of a new game!
  
  

• A great accessory

  
  By A1NPICGI1CR2UJ on 2007-09-17
  I'd longed for a thumbboard even before I heard this product was in the works. Using the gamepad to enter text is a serious drag, especially for entering prepaid codes. Once MSN Messenger support was added to Xbox Live, I almost considered plugging in a USB keyboard. But there's just something annoying about switching between a gamepad and a keyboard.
  
  The Chatpad does exactly what it's meant to do. If you've used a Sidekick before, the feel of the keyboard should be immediately familiar but with more of a click. It's easy to use, lets you type fairly fast, and has some nice little features, like a backlight and a dedicated Messenger button, which when pressed will pause the game and pull up a small overlay box of your current Messenger conversation.
  
  The included headset seems like a slight improvement over the original and includes the volume/mute control in the middle of the cord. Because of the change in the plug from the original, you can also use the headset with a phone, if you really want.
  
  The only complaints I have:
  
  * The backspace key is placed in a pretty awful position, to the right of the space bar. That takes some getting used to.
  
  * Occasionally, you might type too fast, and rather than a delay before your typing shows up, characters are simply dropped. Hopefully, that's just a software bug that will be fixed soon.
  
  Overall, this is a good buy if you don't like using a USB keyboard and especially if you are a Messenger user.
  
  
  

• Perfect except one thing!

  
  By A1UVU34GKZMKJ1 on 2007-10-06
  I love the tactile feel and backlighting on this keypad and recommend it heartily. The only problem I have with it is if you are wanting to use a different headset (I have the turtle beach 5.1 surround with mic) the connection is not the standard one you'll find on the controllers... so they won't just plug in. I ended up having to splice the new (included) headset's cable onto my old headsets' cable. A hack job - but it worked. But really, this should have been taken care of in the initial design. =/
  
  

• i liked it

  
  By AYXJUO19ERTAW on 2007-09-07
  much easier to type on than the onscreen keyboard but not practical while you're gaming it changes the shape of the controller and makes my wrist hurt after awhile. maybe it's just something you have to get used to i don't know.
  
  

• works great

  
  By A1MH8AMADOLQN8 on 2007-11-26
  I bought this for my husband whose on the Xbox 360 alot. he loves to chat with his friends and needed this to type faster. He has no complaints. He said it's a very comfortable and useful keyboard and loves it. He types much faster now instead of using the on screen keyboard.
  
  
• Relief for the little annoyances in life...
  By ASMATIBS1RGFZ on 2007-12-31
  This little gem is a welcome addition for any gamer that travels and likes to be able to game on a friend's console.
  
  Recovering your gamertag can be a lengthy and frustrating process, mainly because you've got to type in various bits of information to verify the account. I've been the victim of having to do this up to 4 times in a row, hunting for letters and twitching the thumbstick to enter the characters; what a pain!
  
  Yes, you can plug in a USB keyboard, but who really wants to wrestle with one of those? Sitting 3 feet from your console is so 1985.
  
  The Chatpad takes care of that mess quite nicely with satisfyingly clicky key action and fairly accurate recognition on screen. One thing I did have to get used to is that you do not hear a tone when typing in the first capitalised letter in a sentence or word. I type relatively fast, but I've had no problems with the Chatpad or console keeping up with me. Once you get accustomed to the slightly different "shift" buttons (orange and green) to use for characters other than digits and basic letters, you'll find it hard to remember what you ever did before you got your hands on this attachment. No pun intended.
  
  Another little perk is the ready-to-chat MSN Messenger button. It was a bit of a no-brainer since Live players all have Windows Live IDs. I've been able to chat with friends on both the 360 as well as those on the PC without any problem. Again...no USB keyboard hunching or hunting and pecking with the thumbstick or D-pad. Yay!
  
  And lastly, even though I've relatively small hands for a woman, I've had no difficulty with the Chatpad making the controller too bulky or awkward to grip. I haven't made any mistaken key presses or have had the attachment get in the way while gaming.
  
  Really, the only thing I'd like to see by way of new developments for this product is a black version to match my Elite controllers. Black and white might be fashionable in other arenas, but somehow it just doesn't work in this case.
  
  
• good - but doesn't work inside media center
  By A93E2D3Z1J77B on 2007-09-15
  I like it. Doesn't affect how you hold the controller and I don't notice it while playing games. The only thing is I like to use the media center extender on the 360 and this doesn't work inside of it (at least not yet, maybe they will update the software soon). Not a huge loss, but there are a few things, like the online xm radio access for instance, that would be easier if this worked as once in a while you have to put in usernames and passwords.
  
  
• Not as good as it should be...
  By A1X06KM5C9AVMC on 2007-11-19
  This keyboard has a myriad of problems and could have been much better if they had just spent a bit more time thinking about it.
  
  Problems if you are used to thumbboards:
  
  1. The keyboard layout doesn't match any other thumb-board out there. They have Windows Mobile 6 devices with thumbboards, and their layout is much more logical than the one on this keyboard. Or they could use the blackberry keyboard layout which a lot of people already have a lot of familiarity with. Plus there is no reason, since there is a ton of space on the keyboard.
  
  2. the keys are really far apart. Really far apart. If you have huge hands, it is okay, but why not just use standard spacing of other mobile devices? It makes it harder to touch type.
  
  Poor design decisions. These affect everyone, not just people used to thumbboards.
  
  1. The snapping onto the bottom of the controller makes it unwieldy. It adds a decent amount of bulk and it is not like you are going to play a game and type at the same time, so why do it this way?
  
  2. The fact that they didn't even mold the bottom to use the same headset means you have another piece of equipment just lying around which seems unnecessary.
  
  If they had done these things correctly, it would be worth four stars.
  
  The final issue and the fifth star?
  
  1. They should have made it its own wireless device. I would have paid $15 more to have it just work wirelessly as a controller on its own. And it would be worth a final fifth star.
  
  
• very pointless add on
  By A23PRCK9974NFF on 2008-01-05
  This is a nice ideal, but problem is the Xbox 360 already comes with two USB ports. The USB ports can support your average USB keyboard that will do much the same function. I'd honestly save yourself some money and pick yourself up a cheap USB keyboard instead.
  
  
• Remember the huge XBOX controller?
  By A1AXWVQMH8Y8MO on 2007-11-23
  This will revive that memory; Here are my pro's and cons...
  Pros:
  -it's a keypad
  -it has a lighted keyboard
  -will work with your MSN or Windows Live messanger
  -it's a QWERTY style keypad
  Cons:
  -although it's designed to quickly switch between messaging and gaming, the transition, isn't so smooth
  -it's really bulky, making it feel like the original huge XBOX controller
  -the button's are really spaced out from each other
  -backspace button awkwardly placed
  -the button response is horrible, having the player press the button again
  -difficult to attach/detach
  
  Conclusion: In Microsoft's attempt to offer players a messaging add-on, the XBOX 360 Text Input Device disappoints. I would have much rather liked to have seen a Wirless keyboard peripheral that wouldn't have to attach to my controller. Microsoft expect players to play Halo 3 and message their friends at the same time with this thing.
  
  
• I thought it would be more useful
  By AF828HLVMFVQW on 2007-11-27
  I went out and bought this because i thought it would be super useful, then after owning it for a while, i realized its a bit too heavy, and when i talk to my friends i mostly use voice chat.
  
  Overall its great for typing out messages, but pretty much superfluous.
  
  
• Useful for more than just messaging!
  By ARYK20QOERZBH on 2008-01-08
  The little keyboard is really easy to use and doesn't get in the way when using the controller for gaming. I purchased it mainly so I could keep up with the texting speed of friends who use computers but it is also handy for in-game stuff like naming custom-made potions (Oblivion), characters, and game saves.
  
  
• Great product, but check your other accessories
  By AGYUVNKQLKNIN on 2008-03-24
  This communicator makes typing a breeze and comes with a standard wired headset.
  
  PROS
  - Back lit Keyboard for typing in the dark
  - Click feedback on keys
  - Very very light adds almost no weight to the controller
  - comfortable
  - solid construction
  
  CONS
  - you almost have to force it on the controller
  - only has 1/8 jack for headset it removes the power pins. I have a Turtle Beach Earforce X3 headset that requires the 3 connections and I cannot use it with this device attached. This would have gotten 5 stars IF they included all connectors on the back end of this device.
  
  
• Does not work on a PC
  By A3FF44UQMPHNY8 on 2008-05-19
  Many, many people have bought this little gadget thinking that the phrase from the developer's own website, "Chatting with friends and family on Xbox LIVE® and Windows-based PCs is easy using the Xbox 360 Messenger Kit," implied that it would work on the PC. It does not. I still have to sit there hunched over a keyboard while playing video games.
  
  If you intend to buy this for your PC use instead opt for the Madcatz add-on to the PS3 controller. It works with a PC.
  
  
• Main Use
  By A1R91I3D97CMYX on 2008-08-11
  I don't use this for chatting at all, but I've found this to be an excellent addition to my other 360 accesories for 1 reason. I have a lot of music stored on my 360 and it's a real pain going through and naming everything using the controller alone. The chatpad makes this tedious process a breeze in comparision. It comes with a headset which I'll use to communicate on live instead of messing with the text messenger. Another thing that's probably been mentioned in the other reviews, it's very well designed and contrary to what I was anticipating before using this thing, it's almost unoticable when connected to the controller, it doesn't add enough weight to notice and it's still comfortable to hold while gaming. Personally I think it looks pretty cool too. Not a must have accesory, but far from useless and unecessary.
  
  
• For easier texting
  By A2MFDNU2MFH5YX on 2007-10-07
  I bought this for my husband because he was sick and tired of using the controller to try to send messages back and forth to his gaming buddies. This has just works so much better and easier. There is a lot less cursing and thrown controllers at our house.
  
  
• 360 keyboard review
  By AT7H2XND8KWHH on 2007-10-13
  Its ok i guess i have not used it much though and the headphones that come with it are garbage. But i guess if you text chat people it would be really great.
  
  
• Finally!
  By ADIY3IXY2FDJQ on 2007-10-15
  Ever since I got my 360, I have had such hate for sending people messages because just to say hello takes so long. This is the answer. The only downfall to it is that it's slow sometimes, so you can't type really fast, but you're still miles faster than just using the joy stick to do every letter. For the price too, who can beat it?
  
  
• Much better than anticipated
  By A12B45NW0MPZC on 2007-11-08
  I didn't even realize that Microsoft made one of these until I saw it in the store. I had been wanting an easier way to send messages to friends in between Gears of War matches, but the hunt and peck method on the virtual keyboard takes forever. This unit just plugs in and snaps on to my wireless controller and works flawlessly. It fits perfectly, looks like part of the controller, doesn't get in the way, and comes with a wired headset. And the buttons are large enough so that you don't have a problem with hitting the wrong letter/number all the time. If you play in the dark, no problem...the keyboard is backlit as soon as you touch a button. I haven't found a single drawback to this accessory.
  
  
• A must-have for text input
  By A1KXJCXS6HFRQZ on 2007-11-09
  This is a great device for text input. If you're like me, then you avoid entering text on the 360 because using the stick to select keys individually is a pain in the rump. With this device, entering text is a breeze. Now I actually want to enter text (to justify the $30 price). So far this device has helped me name some Halo 3 screenshots and send text messages to my friends. I find that text messages are clearer than sending voice messages, and when you can't get a voice connection for whatever reason, the text messages always make it through.
  
  Other than the utility I get, the device fits nicely into the controller. It doesn't add too much extra weight and it doesn't make your hands feel uncomfortable on the controller. It's a great device.
  
  Despite that, there are some problems. The voice communicator doesn't always work like it should, and friends voices come through the speaker sometimes. Also, the text input software on the xbox needs to be updated to better accommodate this device. Other than that, it's good.
  
  
• A nice addition but....
  By A3788Q83ABJHFS on 2007-11-29
  Microsoft did a good thing by creating the chatpad. The on screen keyboard was a real hassle. It is extremely responsive and has great tactile feedback. The backlighting of the keys is excellent. The only thing that prevents it from receiving 5 stars is the fact that the headset passthrough port on the chatpad requires the use of the special included headset. Personally, I like the original headset better than the one that comes in the messenger pack. Aside from that, this is an accessory that is worth buying.
  
  
• Great 360 add-on
  By ARDEDFOVI61G6 on 2007-12-01
  It works well and is easy to type with. I wish it came in black or other colors to match newer controllers. It adds weight to the controller and changes the feel, but you get used to it.
  
  
• Nice solution to text messages/chat on your 360
  By AY0P4NES15HBW on 2007-12-06
  This is a nice clever solution to your typing problems on the 360. Anytime you want to write a text message or chat w/ your msn contacts, going through the virtual keyboard with your controller is too slow and makes chatting impractical and ultimately impossible. Dont even bother if you dont have this product.
  This text input device, on the other hand, connects to the bottom of your 360 controller and manages to squeeze between the handles all the keys except for the numeric ones. Text messages are way easier this way, much faster. And msn chatting is, finally, practicle on your 360.
  A nice added feature is that, when using this thumb keyboard, your msn chats can be shown ingame, with no need to access the guide button and scroll all the way to the messages blade. The keys are backlit to, so playing in the dark wont affect your ability to type.
  Tottaly recommended if you are online a lot w/ your 360.
  
  
• Not bad
  By A28BE0HA20BQOI on 2008-01-01
  The keys lightings up is a nice touch. Taking the thing on and off takes some getting used to. Trying to play COD4 with it on is rather bothersome. It's definitely convenient when you want to send msgs to your friends on live.
  
  
• If you msg friends on xbox live a lot, this keypad is for you.
  By AGBT0RA0OTQXY on 2008-01-12
  This is pretty simple:
  
  Q: Do you often message people on xbox live or purchase xbox live point cards that you have to key in codes for?
  
  If you answered, YES. Then you should buy this accessory. Especially since the price just dropped. It is that simple.
  
  The keys have a firm click to them and are pretty easy to type with. You can't type "full speed" as fast as humanly possible, but you can sure punch out a message easily 10x faster than with the thumbsticks!
  
  If you don't msg people on xbox live, ask yourself "Do I want to?". Perhaps that thumbsticking was annoying you as much as it annoyed me and kept you from wanting to. $20 isn't too terrible to make messaging easier. It's about the price of a keyboard.
  
  Ergonomics:
  I found attaching it to the bottom of the controller was a little tricky at first. Of course I didn't even look to see if there were any directions. Once I figured out that you have to push it all the way until it clips/clicks into place I was fine. I haven't had a problem playing games with the chatpad in place. I usually take it off if I won't be using it, but I don't have to...I just don't feel like leaving on if I'm playing single player stuff.
  
  
• Definitely worth it.
  By A1VPMQGDXL73Z6 on 2008-01-28
  If you use Windows Live Messenger on your xbox 360, you're gonna need this. Much more portable and convenient than a full sized keyboard, and it doesn't get in the way when you're playing. I finally got fed up with typing in descriptions for my Halo 3 maps one letter at a time, so I got this and I couldn't be happier. The headset that comes with it is also nice, higher quality than the ones that ship with the console. A great investment, and a great price.
  
  
• Convenient
  By AB3MFDJGJ6SL9 on 2008-04-27
  This messanging kit is great. It's easy to use, and extremely durable. Also, it comes with it's own headset. The only problem I've experienced, is that it can be hard to plug it into your controller, and it's uncomfortable to have it attached to your controller while playing games. Other than that, it is one of the best accessories I own for the Xbox 360.
  
  
• Wow great, xbox360 rocks, great text messaging kit
  By A5X0G8LTO1J9E on 2008-05-13
  I use this to text my friends online to tell them about stuff you no basic s..., but this is a great text messaging kit, xbox360 rules.
  
  
• Love it
  By A34UPZNL7SQ4ND on 2008-06-09
  I love this thing. Just for putting in the ridiculously-long codes from the point cards you can purchase at retail stores, it's worth it. It also gives a nice heft. For long gaming runs though, it gets too heavy. Good bonus headset included too, which comes in handy when your stock one goes bad, which it will.
  
  
• Great for IM
  By AOO0WKQHEAQJR on 2008-08-03
  If you don't use IM then don't bother with this. But this is perfect for much quicker IM.
  
  

• Xbox 360 Live 12 Month Gold Card plus 1 Month Bonus
• Xbox 360 Live 1600 Points
• Xbox 360 Quick Charge Kit
• Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare
• Xbox 360 Live 4000 Points