Geekey Review

Likes

The Geekey is a particularly well-designed version of the 'key-shaped' one-piece multi-tools available. And it has won some awards (such as the HOT NEW NEXT Championship at the Interior Design Show, Vancouver), we believe deservingly so.

Attempting to cram 16+ features in such a tiny frame is a tall task, but the level of ingenuity on display here does result in some eye-opening wins. The smoking bowl is a unique inclusion, to say the least, and this feature alone could make the tool worth it for many users (we find it works well enough, without any wind). We only wish that there was a brass or copper tip inlaid on the pipe end, as copper is naturally anti-microbial.

Our favorite feature/tool inclusions, though, are the two standard 1/4in drivers — one open (doubling as the bottle opener), one with a back. The body itself is able to generate some good leverage as a wrench and screwdriver.

Seeing as there are no moving parts, the Geekey feels pretty bomb-proof. We feel that it is very well made, not only in terms of its sturdiness, but in the clear precision of its machining. We can find absolutely no defects, such as prominent parting or weld lines from the mold.

Beyond that, the Geekey's main advantage is its portability. Other mini multi-tools are still heavy and large enough to be noticeable dangling from a key ring. The Geekey truly 'disappears', in contrast.

Dislikes

Attempting to stuff as many functions as possible in a form this small will result in some of them overshooting their usefulness, and some falling short.

The protractor is a joke. 12(!) hex wrench sizes are jammed in the large opening in the main space of the body, but they're just too shallow for real, effective engagement of the bolt head. In reality, any wrench on the Geekey tends to slip right off, leaving the user more frustrated than accomplished.

The file is both somehow too coarse (it maddeningly catches on any metal or hardwood edge without a crosscut to even it out) yet too slick to file a fingernail.

A prominent 'serrated edge' in the throat of the bottle opener takes on the role of a blade or knife. Unfortunately, it's far too blunt to cut anything more than the thinnest of twine or a single layer of packing tape. Additionally, the crowded multi-fit driver at the tip is ludicrous. It kind of works as a #2 Phillips head or a small flathead (though not eyeglasses-screw-small). This is absolutely a case of “less is more”, and we hope the Gen. 2 Geekey will address this.

Should You Buy the Geekey Multi-tool?

A one-piece multi-tool like the Geekey will appeal to a unique user base that won't likely overlap much with the certified tinkerer in your life who has a Leatherman clipped in their pocket every day. But ultimately, for what it is, the Geekey Multi-tool is fun and can add some meaningful utility to anyone's key ring.

What Other Multi-tool Should You Consider?

On the smaller, more portable end of things, the Geekey is going to give some really fantastic value, but not necessarily the tool replacement level of versatility many seek in a multi-tool. For that, consider the awesome Gerber Dime as the next step up on the size-to-usefulness ladder. The Leatherman Wingman is a great value in a full-sized body. Toward the top end of our tested list sits the Leatherman Arc, if you're looking for unparalleled functions and usability.