This small, Blackberry-esque keypad attaches to the bottom of the X360 controller for the purpose of easing text-entry. It also includes a new headset to accommodate for the modified headset port on the bottom of the chatpad.

When I first heard about this, I figured it would be something useful for the console for adding in Marketplace codes, sending text messages, and for use in game. It would also help with the Live Messenger integration with Xbox Live accounts. There is nothing more annoyingly slow than typing with a digital pad...well, perhaps using the analog stick.

Anyhow, while one can easily use a standard USB keyboard with the system, I didn't really want to shell out for one that would reach my couch from the console (A.K.A. wireless). With this coming in at $35CDN, it was a good buy.

For not only do you get the keypad, you also get a new headset. However, this headset is also one of the main detractors for the chatpad. The new design of it being a simple 2.5mm jack plug-in has caused the volume and mute controls to be put inline. While not inherently bad, this headset doesn't seem to perform as well as the regular wired controllers, and does not touch the wireless...which I have, so it's not a big deal for me.

The other complaint I have about the keypad is just the layout of the unit. While it's just something that is going to take getting used to, to think one can jump right into using it without looking is somewhat foolhardy, as while it is a QWERTY-layout, each key has up to 3 characters assigned to it, and the ENTER and BKSP key is in a non-standard location. Again, not a big deal, but just something to look out for.

One concern that was raised to me by my coworkers was the added weight and bulk to the controller, but those fears are unrealized. The chatpad actually makes the controller nicer to handle, allowing it to rest more comfortably in your hands thanks to the added length. In fact, it feels very akin to a Dreamcast controller. The weight itself is almost negligible, and after 15-20 minutes of play, I got reaccustomed to the feel of the controller and enjoy the ergonomics of it more with the controller attached.

I've been using it since I found one at HMV on Saturday, and I've run into no compatibility issues with it, and the pop-up overlay chat windows are really slick. The one suggestion I would have though is that it clamps on there really tight, so you may want to attach it and leave it on as not to damage the prongs where it plugs into the controller.

Well, that's enough rambling, but this is definately an accessory to get if you don't have or can't use a standard keyboard and do a bit of chatting via Live Messenger or send text messages over Live. But good luck finding it. It was supposed to be out over a week ago, and most stores haven't seen it yet. It's not even in the Best Buy inventory yet.

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