I don't bother with that chat accessory- and I still manage to type normally and send messages quickly. Xbox.com. Done. Check msgs on xbox, reply via xbox.com.
I use a headset that uses that part of the controller for transmitting.
I don't have the chat accessory. The thing with the Xbox.com site is you still have to refresh and take your hands away from the controller to type so it's not any different than if you had to take your fingers off the controller to use the chatpad.
I have my USB keyboard literally right next to my chair so it takes like 2 seconds to draw up the XBL menu, select the message and then type away. I usually do it in between waves. I think using the Xbox.com site is literally like 2 seconds' time saved due to the refresh button, but that's it. Still have to click "read", type away and then hit send.
Dunno about you guys, but I'm a keyboard ninja and I can't even click/type/send fast enough to pull that off and play. Well actually I can but it usually ends up with me looking like an idle ******* and then dying unnecessarily.
EDIT: I just realized I do end up sending message to players on my Recently Seen list which neither the Xbox.com or Xbox Live apps cover (unless you purchase the Pro versions). That's... why I use the XBL menu and not the website itself XD
So "she" is really a "he"? That might explain the lack of mic. I just figured because of the female avatar.
Yeah, so did I. I looked like a real assuming ******* when I invited "her" to join my party as a no-micer and "she" sent me messages going "Um I'm a guy."
Something about his SO prettying up his avatar so it's female. I can't remember what the message said. I didn't prod for details out of respect. But yeah, he's apparently used to people thinking he's a female gamer.