I’ll say it simply: the HexStyli is a great stocking-filler for the tablet-owning DIY-enthusiast.
Featuring a stylus for use on capacitive touchscreens (like Apple’s iPad), the HexStyli also includes a ballpoint pen, spirit level, ruler and a pair of screwdriver heads (hence 6-in-1). It’s fair to say that this stylus won’t replace your toolkit at home, nor your favourite pen at work, however it’s sometimes nice to have these things handy, especially if you stick it in your laptop bag or EDC bag.
The HexStyli is all metal with a knurled grip at the base of the barrel. It’s nicely weighty and feels reassuringly solid. Even the pocket clip seems reasonably tough. The weight distribution is also fairly even, so it feels comfortable to hold as either a pen or as a stylus.
In terms of use as a stylus, it works rather well. The tip is feels quite squishy when you press the end of it, but using it at a natural angle on the screen, it’s actually quite firm. I had no issues with intermittent contact and I had good feel when sketching. I’d be happy taking long-form notes as the hexagonal barrel of the HexStyli makes for a nice, comfortable grip, even for longer periods. If the clip is an issue for you when using the stylus for extended periods, the tip of it actually unscrews so that you can attach it to the pen end, presumably so that you can get to the screwdriver tips underneath, however it means you are effectively using the stylus ‘right side up’ so you get the nice, knurled grip.
The spirit level works well enough and the ruler is little more than painted markings on the side of the pen (in both centimetres and inches). As previously mentioned, the stylus end of the HexStyli unscrews to reveal the dual-sided screwdriver tips. Because of the hexagonal shape of HexStyli, you can exert a reasonable amount of force when screwing/unscrewing, however you’ll be limited by your grip. It’s handy to have in a pinch though.
Overall, the HexStyli is a unique and cleverly designed stylus with some nice extra features thrown in. It would make a great gift for the gadget-loving techie in your life and it certainly won’t break the bank at £9.99 from MobileFun. MobileFun also have a range of other styli if you fancy something more traditional.