The chat bar is a convenient keyboard that fits comfortably under the 360 controller. It adds weight to the controller so I usually take it off when playing serious games (like Halo) but for not very intense arcade games (like uno) usually leave it on. I don't send a lot of messages, so I usually turn it off and back on when I want to type something. It is also very handy for Viva Pinata if you give your pinata a name. The keyboard itself is great. and easy to use. I have an AT&T 8525 and the keyboard layout is very similar so I could easily accommodate the two thumbs it was designed for. The keys also light up as you type, making it easier to type in the dark. I haven't noticed faster battery drain when using the keyboard. Overall I rate the performance of the device as good, I just don't know if I use it enough to justify a purchase. If you think you will be using a rug a lot, then by all means buy one.