Keyboard recommendations

[Sam Ceccola]

It's that time of the year again where my kids are bugging me for a Christmas List.

One of my suggestions is a new keyboard for this PC. Currently I have a wireless Dual 700 Logitech keyboard and mouse. The mouse is great but the keyboard is giving me some problems. It many times will not print a character and makes me look like a bad speller but thank goodness for spell checkers.

I like some of functions of this keyboard. I can program some of the function keys (I am NOT referring to F1 thru F12). Keys labeled "Shopping" I have set for eBay; another key is "Search" I have set for Google.

I want to get away from the wireless keyboard. Can you recommend a nice keyboard with some addressable function keys? I do NOT want a "split" keyboard.

Thanks,
Sam

[jflan]

If you like the fit, feel, rebound etc of the Logitech, I would consider some of their wired versions.
I'm using the "Media Elite" and like it very well.
The older boxes are marked "Media" but the model I have is what they are now calling "Media Elite"
I don't use them, but it looks like it has the hot buttons you seek.
It's the third up from the bottom of the list.
http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/products/productlist/US/EN,crid=2157

[dbarrow]

MX3000, MX3200
My son got one of these sets and I have to say I like it.
Keyboard had all the extra functions and keys.
The material is soft and cushioned and keys silent. It has a very different feel than the old hard plastic as in really nice.
The laser mouse is extremely fast and accurate. It has the same shape and feel as the older ones but again, feels nicer.
It's wireless but we never had a problem with it.
The wireless keyboards seem to never run down the batteries.
They got away from that charger base for the mouse and all the problems with it.
The MX3000 mouse uses AA or NiCad AA and has an on/off button on the bottom. Shuts off when not used for 20 min.
It eats batteries but we always keep several charged sets of NiCads in the charger anyway.

You have to try this set for the feel of it as it is unique and pleasantly different from any others before it.

[Sam Ceccola]

If you like the fit, feel, rebound etc of the Logitech, I would consider some of their wired versions.
I'm using the "Media Elite" and like it very well.
The older boxes are marked "Media" but the model I have is what they are now calling "Media Elite"
I don't use them, but it looks like it has the hot buttons you seek.
It's the third up from the bottom of the list.
http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/products/productlist/US/EN,crid=2157

Jfan: I wanted to let you know, I did get the Logitech Media Elite keyboard as a Christmas present from my daughter. It does have the features I like.

It will take a little time to get use to; some of the keys are in a different location. I also find the keys are a little smaller in physical size.

So far I am happy with it.

Thanks,
Sam

[jflan]

Glad you like it.
I've been very pleased with the Logitech products that I have tried.

The only complaint that I can think of is, it seems that I had to do a bit of "pruning" on the software that came with the keyboard.
It's been a while, but I recall that it was interfering with an another app.

[jcampi]

You suggestion on the Logitech keyboard is tempting. We are still using a Dell ps2 media keyboard that the family really likes. The keyboard has a volume control and buttons for many internet functions. I have the software that is needed to installed the keyboard. Since we have become so used to the old Dell keyboard I've wondered if I'd be able to install it on a new pc I'm going to build. I can't see why it wouldn't be possible once I install the software for the hotkeys.

[dbarrow]

The new MX3200...
Current version is on sale at Staples with $20 instant rebate and $20 Staples rebate (online and reliable) = $59.95 for the set.
Plus... I had a $10 rewards coupon to use anyway.
So... I got one just because....

So far, I am taking a liking to the laser mouse. It seems much more precise than the optical and better overall feel to it. Gaming tonight will tell the true story.
Keyboard has a nice soft touch on the keys. Think I am going to like it better. Just something about the soft touch keyboard that is pleasant.
Many programmable functions I have yet to get around to.
Time will tell but the price was right.

[mylanta]

I have been using laser mouses for over a year now on all units and they really do have a different feel to them.

[kern]

FWIW, I've been using a Logitech Trackball for several years, and I find the Trackball to be far superior to the Mouse in both design and comfort.

[mylanta]

Well I admire you...I have tried trackballs, and I just cannot get used to them.

[Smokey]

I've got two MX5000 sets here. Mouse and keyboard, both bluetooth and they are great. From the feel, features and battery life. I've had the MX Duo, MX700, MX3000, MX3100 and MX5000 Laser sets and love each one. I tend to upgrade yearly as I am a heavy user and I absolutely hate it when the space bar or other keys start to "smooth" out.