A full comparison of the ProtoArc XK03 and JOMAA foldable split keyboards for travel, ergonomics, key feel, and long‑form typing
Read our full reviews:ProtoArc XK03: Rating: ●●●●○ 4.0/5.0 Excellent. [Full review]JOMAA Split Portable Foldable Keyboard: Rating: ●●●●○ 4.0/5.0 Excellent. [Full review] |
These two boast very similar clamshell form factors, able to fold on itself to provide an even smaller footprint. They are both split ergonomic keyboards to help keep your arms and wrists in a neutral position and angle. With laptop chiclet keys, they offer decent key feel and travel despite being so slim, and it feels comfortable typing on them for extended periods. Both the ProtoArc and JOMAA use Bluetooth to connect to up to three devices, and offer long battery life easily topped up using USB C.
From here, the differences start to emerge. The ProtoArc XK03 feels like a solid unit, while the JOMAA Split Foldable feels a bit hollow and plasticky, with a plastic hinge that feels could be snapped off if you’re not careful. The ProtoArc automatically switches off when you close the keyboard, but you need to actually switch the JOMAA off – as the keys press against each other when closed, it results in phantom key presses if one forgets.
Where the JOMAA pulls ahead slightly are the number of keys on the keyboard. It effectively offers a 70% layout, keeping a function row, whereas the ProtoArc is a 65% layout and omits the function row. Whether or not this is a problem depends on how much you rely on the F-keys. Spreadsheet warriors and programmers may find its omission harder to swallow.
In terms of actual typing experience, the JOMAA comes up on top here interestingly, managing to maintain the feeling of a laptop keyboard even on extended typing sessions. The thicker nature of the JOMAA keyboard is actually a benefit, as it means the keys have more key travel and bounce when compared to the ProtoArc XK03. When using the XK03 for longer sessions, it can start to feel like typing on a plank of (soft) wood. The slimmer nature of the XK03 works against it, as the ultra slim form factor can only offer so much key travel.
Finally, the last major difference is the price. Although the JOMAA costs between US$22 to 30, the ProtoArc costs between US$50 to 60, which is up to a 172% difference.
Which one should I get?
Ultimately, both keyboards deliver far more than their tiny footprints suggest, and the right choice depends entirely on what you value most. If you need the function row, prefer more key travel with a familiar laptop style key feel, and/or are more budget conscious, the JOMAA is an excellent choice.
On the other hand, if you prioritise build quality, and ultimate slimness, the ProtoArc XK03 is your choice.
Personally when I travel internationally, and when the weight of the Keychron K11 Max would be noticeable in a backpack, I bring the ProtoArc XK03 instead. This is suitable for a workflow of emails and short documents. However, if I anticipate a trip with a lot of long form writing, I’ve started to carry the JOMAA split foldable keyboard instead, given it’s more comfortable for longer typing sessions.
Either way, whichever keyboard you choose, you’ll be miles ahead of tapping out emails on a cramped laptop, and end up with a travel companion that makes typing on the move far more pleasant.
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