Keyboard Functionality
To connect the keyboard, simply insert the batteries and make sure the cradle is properly set up. The keyboard is “plug and play,” although there is no plug. This is true wireless freedom. As I type this, I am leaning back in my chair in a completely different direction, but there are no wires to bog me down. Yes, it is that nice. The keys are responsive, fast, and smooth, as described before. My only complaint is that they are not more obnoxious and “clickier.” Being a fan of typewriters, I love these types of keyboards. However, the MX will do just fine for almost anyone, unless you have a strong desire for a upper responsive keyboard. Gamers will definitely like this board for its key action. How about those upper buttons? Well, whenever you press a “special” button, a black text comes on the screen indicating what you are doing. Strangely enough, the caps-lock indicator is not found on the keyboard, but on the cradle. I suppose this was done to save precious battery life. The scroll button on the left of the keyboard is particularly useful, and it an be programmed to do many different operations. The keyboard/cradle also includes Bluetooth connectivity, which is a plus. The keyboard has two typical “stand-up” things that let the keyboard rise a bit above the surface. Also, it features friction pads which help the keyboard stay in place on most surfaces, though, if you are anything like me, you’ll want to use this on your lap. Why: Because you can.
The keyboard software is non-intrusive, as I expected it to mess with my mind, as most peripheral software usually does. If you have ever purchased any older high-end peripherals, you will understand exactly what I am talking about. Endless unnecessary companion spy ware (I mean, “software”) and other annoyances continually will bog you down. Luckily, Logitech has its act together and only bothers you if you ask it to. Because it is a wireless keyboard, and because it is possible for “hackers” to intrude your computer by sending wireless signals on the same spectrum, there is a “secure mode” for all those who are paranoid.
Is the keyboard worth the money? Well, it truly depends on your point of view. If you have money to burn, go ahead and buy the stand-alone MX keyboard or the combo. However, if you are a gamer looking for a decent keyboard that has normal functionality, go with the traditional wired keyboard. There are few advantages to these keyboard that mainstream keyboards do not possess. It is clearly a bit over priced.
Mouse Functionality
How about that MX-700? Well, I will put it this way: It is quite simply the best mouse I have ever used. That being said, it does have a few flaws. It is just a bit too heavy due to the batteries, and it also must be recharged, but all wireless devices must be recharged. The batteries come with the mouse, thank goodness. Now, although I have yet to find particular use in any of the extra buttons on the mouse, they do not get in your way and I have yet to accidentally press one of the special buttons. The mouse has a blinking LED to indicate charge level and battery life is excellent. It can go many forgotten nights without being recharged. Be warned, however, that it must be charged, and that forgetting to do this on a regular basis can cause you grief. That being said, batteries and power are generally not issues.
The mouse moves beautifully, and you can truly see the difference in applications like PhotoShop and CAD, and games such as Jedi Knight II and Return to Castle Wolfenstein. The extra buttons may be useful to you, but generally, it is difficult to reach them while firing away mindlessly in a computer game. Strategy gamers may find them surprisingly useful, though. Combined with a decent mouse pad, this mouse should do the trick for most of your needs.
Is the mouse worth money? While it is rather expensive, I would have to say it is worth every penny if you are a gamer or power user of a PC. This is definitely not a “Christmas Gift” for any old PC user. Only those who know what they want can appreciate it.
Conclusions
Am I still a skeptic? I’m not sure. I still do not enjoy spending more than $4.00 on a keyboard, but I would have to say that the mouse is amazing and works great. So, to any gamer or aspiring CAD user, the mouse individually is worth the money. The keyboard is “nice,” but definitely not worth the money it costs individually.
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