Input Rates and User Preference for Three Small-Screen Input Methods: Standard Keyboard, Predictive Keyboard, and Handwriting

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare three input methods (standard keyboard, predictive keyboard, and perfect handwriting recognition) considering user input rates and preferences. Six participants used all three input methods to enter both normal text and addresses. Participants indicated that they preferred to use the standard keyboard. The average input rate for handwriting was fastest, but also much more variable than the other methods. Despite its speed, participants generally found it difficult to write comfortably and legibly on the small (35times115 mm) display. The input rate for the standard keyboard was more than twice the input rate for the predictive keyboard. These results suggest that, for small devices, neither handwriting recognition nor predictive keyboards would effectively replace the standard keyboard layout. Even with perfect handwriting recognition, users seem to prefer tapping on a small standard keyboard unless the device's hardware design allows comfortable handwriting input.