For many Android users, Gboard has long reigned supreme as the go-to keyboard, thanks to its seamless integration with Google’s ecosystem and a plethora of features. However, a recent exploration into alternative options has led to the discovery of HeliBoard, a minimalist keyboard that prioritizes privacy and simplicity.
A dream for tinkerers
Transitioning from Gboard to HeliBoard is akin to trading in a spacious SUV for a nimble city car. Initially, the adjustment can be jarring, but the streamlined experience of HeliBoard quickly proves to be refreshing. While Gboard offers a ready-to-use interface, HeliBoard invites users to engage in a bit of customization before hitting their stride. This aspect may frustrate those who prefer a plug-and-play approach, but for enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering, the rewards are plentiful.
Visually, HeliBoard stands out with its customizable aesthetics, featuring three distinct keyboard styles and a dynamic color palette that users can tailor to their liking. The customizable toolbar, positioned conveniently at the top of the keyboard, provides quick access to essential shortcuts, enhancing the overall typing experience. Users can easily reposition elements within the toolbar, allowing for a personalized touch that caters to individual preferences.
For multilingual users, HeliBoard offers an effortless way to switch between languages. A simple press and hold of the spacebar allows for quick toggling, although some languages may lack dictionary support, resulting in fewer suggestions. Nevertheless, HeliBoard accommodates various keyboard layouts, automatically adjusting to the user’s selected language.
Keys without the bloat
While HeliBoard may not boast the extensive feature set of Gboard, it excels in its streamlined approach. Many users appreciate Gboard’s additional functionalities, such as content discovery and emoji integration, but for those seeking a straightforward typing experience, HeliBoard’s minimalism is a breath of fresh air. By stripping away unnecessary features, HeliBoard enhances both speed and efficiency, focusing solely on the core keyboard experience.
Although HeliBoard does support basic features like word suggestions and gesture typing, these require manual activation. The gesture typing relies on a closed-source library from Google, which, while effective, adds a layer of complexity. Users may find that suggestions take time to adapt to their typing habits, similar to the initial learning curve experienced with Gboard.
Privacy is another area where HeliBoard shines. Unlike Gboard, which collects usage data to improve its services, HeliBoard operates without internet permissions, ensuring that user data remains private. This aspect is particularly appealing for those wary of data collection practices, prompting a reevaluation of how they interact with their keyboards.
Should you switch Gboard for HeliBoard?
Despite the advantages of HeliBoard, it may not yet be the ideal choice for all users. While it offers a fast and customizable experience, it still exhibits bugs that Gboard users may find frustrating. Issues such as a malfunctioning emoji library and disappearing toolbars can detract from the overall experience, making it less reliable for everyday use.
In its current state, HeliBoard is a promising option for those who value privacy and customization, but it requires further refinement to reach its full potential. For now, it serves as a capable alternative for users seeking a straightforward typing experience, even if it lacks the polish of its more established counterpart.
Are there any other Gboard alternatives out there?
Finding the right keyboard is a personal journey, and while HeliBoard is an intriguing option, several other alternatives merit consideration:
- Florisboard: Rapidly developing with the promise of extensions, Florisboard is one to watch, though it’s still in testing.
- Microsoft SwiftKey: Now featuring AI capabilities, SwiftKey has evolved significantly, but some users may find it suffers from feature bloat.
- FUTO Keyboard: Developed by the creators of GrayJay and Immich, this keyboard is still in alpha but shows promise with its clean design and offline voice input.
- Unexpected Keyboard: A lesser-known gem, this keyboard utilizes taps and directional swipes for quick access to special characters.
