Keyport Slide 2.0
Product Review
I have been a longtime Keyport follower and a Keyport Slide 2.0 user for going on two years now. Keyport has become a fixture in my everyday carry. As one of the three most essential EDC items along with wallet and phone, Keyport recently made a subtle shift in its positioning, and I think it is worth noting.
Keyport’s website describes the Slide as the “everyday multi-tool for the modern lifestyle.” It fits how I use it perfectly. As an EDC enthusiast, it is pretty obvious that I am a big fan of multi-tools - Swiss Army, Leatherman, Gerber, etc. I own at least one of each and still use them on occasion, but Keyport is what I carry with me on a daily basis. It holds up to six keys and /or tools in a box that is about the same size as a box of Tic Tacs (I borrowed this from their site, but it is true). The thing I have found that separates the Keyport from other multi-tools and key holders is that I use every key (house, work, and mail) and every tool (USB, pen, and mini-light) at least once a day, so from an efficiency standpoint, it has definitely earned its position in my everyday carry.
I know that there have been several reviews of the Keyport Slide before, so I am going to highlight the features that I think are the most valuable for me (and hopefully you).
One-Handed Access
This one is at the top of my list! While it took me a few days to get familiar with the location of each of my keys and implements, I no longer have to sort through my keys to pick out the one I want. I am able to slide it out without even looking. Turning on the mini-light (by sliding it forward) is a huge help when my front stoop light is off and it is completely dark. I am also able to unlock my front door or the door to my office anytime my hands are full, and I can’t tell you how many times I have had to do that.
Keys & Tools
Integrating both keys and tools into a single device is very useful. I only have 3 keys, so the tools round it out for me. The tools that Keyport has so far is USB (4GB - 32GB + 32GB 3.0), Mini-Light, Pen, Bottle Opener, and Barcode Holder. From my conversation with Aimee in Keyport’s Customer Support, there are several more in development. My two personal favorites are the pen and USB 32GB 3.0. I cannot believe how many times I have needed a pen, whether to sign a credit card receipt or a check at the bank. Everything is very easy to insert and to remove (certainly faster than with a traditional key ring), so it is easy to switch things out if I change keys or if new tools come out that I want/need.
Customization
This is something that no other multi-tool or key organizer has to this extent. The Keyport body comes in 3 standard colors - Black, Ice (Clear), and White. I have seen Red on occasion, but it seems to sell out pretty quickly. Keyport also does occasional limited editions like Black on Black, Red on Black, and White on Pink for those of the female persuasion. With the Keyport, I am able to add a bit of my own style by getting colored side plates and I can switch out the buttons called Nodes as well with different colors, or plain ones. In addition, there are even crystal Nodes in a range of colors. I am also able to select from a range of lanyard attachments. I chose to go with the S-Biner MicroLock.
Lost & Found
While I would really like a locator on the Keyport, the Lost & Found program is the next best thing. I registered my serial number on http://mykeyport.com/register, and if my Keyport is ever lost and someone finds it, there is a Reward If Found message on the Slide. If Keyport is contacted, they are able to look it up by serial number and arrange a transfer. Keyport even facilitates a reward if the Keyport owner wants to do that (optional, but good karma), and Keyport chips in with 30% off discount code for the finder as well.
What I Want Next
While I cannot imagine going back to a traditional keychain, there are a few things I would like Keyport to develop:
- Locator - As a mentioned above, a built-in bluetooth locator like Tile, TrackR, or Stick-N-Find would be a great addition.
- Metal Slide - While the full-loaded Slide has always felt sturdy and I have had no durability issues to date, I would be willing to pay a more for a high-end metal version because I like the metal feel better. I acknowledge that there may be some possible interference issues with transponder chips, but I would like to see that nonetheless.
- Auto Remote - Creating a universal auto remote is a bit of a long shot because the technology in cars is so different by make and model and even year that Keyport would probably have to start with a wired system. While that would still be pretty sweet, it would be costly and require a second step to visit an installer. Still, integrating a remote would solidify Keyport’s position as the ultimate fob.
As an EDC enthusiast, I started with the three basic items everyone carries on a daily basis and then started to add to it as I came across some some unique and awesome stuff. The Keyport Slide is a great part of my essential three - lightweight, compact, smart - as I carry my Keyport, my Louis Vuitton wallet, and my iPhone 6 Plus. I look forward to seeing what Keyport does next to continue to keep that place in my pocket.
