what is the most comfortable way to ssh and vim/latex/c++ on android?

Question

I'm debating if i should get droid x. i'd like to use it for work, meaning latex and code in c++. I use vim.

i know this is possible with connectbot. but possible doesn't mean i can substitute a laptop in a coffee shop. are there people that use bluetooth keyboard with android device and are happy like this one (http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/2010/08/20/travel-with-no-baggage/)? I don't mind the small screen.

just curious about your experience. and i think some keyboards have esc key, which is good for vim.

Answer 1

So, I have a Nexus One.

Firstly: do not try to use the soft keyboard for any form of coding. It's workable, to an extent, with connectbot's help, for system administration, but coding is flat out. If you insist on trying, look at Full Keyboard.

Secondly: the screen size is an issue, at least for me. I haven't found a font size that is both readable for long sessions and displays enough code on the screen.

Coding and longform text are still definitely a Computer thing.

Answer 2

I recommend ConnectBot for SSH. My biggest issue with Vim has always been getting the Escape key to work. By default, I believe the Escape key is the same as the Back key in Android.

One answer I found on stackoverflow (can't find the link) is to map a key sequence to escape:

:imap qq <Esc> " map qq to Escape while in insert mode

This should allow fairly normal Vim usage on Android. You can either enter it every time or add it to .vimrc. I got fed up with my Lapdock before I found this, but I will need to go back and try again.

Answer 3

I ended up coding a lot on it. it works quite well. i use iGo Stowaway bluetooth keyboard (it fits in a pocket). i map esc to jk or jj. i also bring a charger just in case.

the small font size doesn't bother me as much. i just move my head closer to the screen.

also alt-tab works for switching application. it's useful because you need to use a stackoverflow for coding :-)