We were sent the popular KeySmart 2.0 key solution that promises to give users the ability to avoid a bulky key chain. But how well will it handle your everyday carry?
One thing that I’ve always hated about carrying around my keys is the pocket clutter. I’ve scratched many glass screen protectors by loose keys, so the KeySmart was a WELCOME change when the company sent it over. The KeySmart 2.0’s organizer design is made to not only eliminate painful inner-pocket jabs at your thigh, but also allow you to organize your keys in a manner that’s not only very elegant but just practical.
I received the KeySmart 2.0 in a special gold color which I have to admit, looks phenomenal. The KeySmart itself comes pretty much already assembled with additional attachments you may have purchased placed in little bags that can be added to the KeySmart on top of your keys. The additions that I added to my KeySmart bundle were the “expansion pack” ($1.98) that allows you to fit 2-14 keys, a quick disconnect” ($2.98) that allows you to place something like a garage fob or car key, and a KW1 Airkey ($2.98) key in black that is just a placeholder to make my keys balance out evenly. You can purchase additional spacers for $1.98 from KeySmart as well if you ever need more space. If you like you can purchase a bottle opener, USB flash drive, pocket clip, or quick retract for an additional price.
Setting up the KeySmart is pretty simple as you just take the super grip screws and undo them one side at a time. I found it easier to do one side at a time because when the KeySmart swivels, it can be hard to get the spacers to stay in place. Their sole purpose is to keep your keys even, as well as preventing them from moving while rubbing from each other since not all keys are created equal. One, in particular, being my home key. Since the KeySmart’s spacers are round, and the screws are as well, they don’t play too well with my key. The hole at the top of my key simply does not work with the KeySmart at all, but luckily I have the quick disconnect as that sits with my home’s garage fob so it’s easier to access.
KeySmart says to make sure that each side stacks flush with the top of the the post, which I managed to do with little effort. One thing that didn’t go so well, however, is that since the ridges in all of my keys aren’t exactly cut the same, my keys from time to time do tend to shift, more specifically when I’m unlocking my front door.
As you can see when I have my door key in hand and I attempt to unlock my door, the opposite end of the KeySmart would see the keys loosen (which they obviously will if you are using a key out of the KeySmart, but it shouldn’t be the case with using the quick disconnect addition. It’s not a huge issue, but it’s certainly worth mentioning. Obviously being one of only two hosts for keys, it goes without saying that this is the only flaw of the key smart. Other than that, if you follow instructions, then keys will lock in place with a simple click and you will not have any issues.
If you do manage to have more than four keys or have plans along the line of incorporating any of the accessories from KeySmart, when you do place the order, you should for sure order the expansion pack while you have the KeySmart in your checkout cart. In my old apartment I had a key for virtually everything, on top of keys for my office as well, which while it made my KeySmart easier to access, it also became pretty heavy. Since the KeySmart is shaped to form to your hand, it still gives off the impression of a key itself when attempting to opening a door. It’s something that you’ll learn to deal with after the first few tries, but those initial moments of turning your key in the door will feel pretty awkward holding a key holder to turn your physical key.
My favorite functionality of them all, however, is accessibility while driving. Before the KeySmart I often found numerous keys and key rings hitting my leg, bothering me as I drove. Now with the KeySmart 2.0 since all of my keys are confined to one space, while the occasional knee tap is still there, I feel a bit better knowing I won’t scrap my legs 100+ times in the summer. And with the quick disconnect, I feel a bit more at peace when I pull up to my home garage as now I don’t have to physically turn off the ignition, grab my keys to tap the HID reader, and start my car back up. Now I can use the quick disconnect to effectively just grab my house keys and fob, quick tap, and be on my way.
Overall the KeySmart 2.0 is a lot more practical than others I’ve seen on the market, and leave less of a footprint in your pockets at the same time. If you are a fan of Everyday Carry, this should be one of the first products that you check out.
For more information on the KeySmart 2.0, head over to their site today.
Source: Manufacturer supplied review unit
What I Like: Slim profile; Quick Disconnect is additional but worth it
What Needs Improvement: Even the gold will scratch up over time; keys will occasionally swivel