Quick thoughts on Logitech Illuminated Keyboard

I was looking for a replacement to my tempermental Saitek Eclipse keyboard. It was missing keys even after a thorough cleaning, so it was time to replace it.

What I liked most was the illuminated keys and volume controls easily accessible. I also prefer quiet keys without a lot of travel. The Logitech Illuminated keyboard fit the bill perfectly. Plus, there are additional function keys to open IE, mail, search, Media Player. Other functions are only accessible if you install the software though like windows flip, system services, ffwd, reverse. They keyboard is quite slim, but feels solid. It also includes a large armrest integrated.

Just wanted to share my thoughts, and something to consider if you want to replace your aging Saitek Eclipse. One issue though is the price tag. It's $80 retail, although you can find it online for $50-$80. I got it for $60. I'm usually a stickler for performance over looks or form, but this keyboard peforms AND looks great. The price is a little steep, but it is a nice keyboard, especially if you're picky like me.

More info at Logitech:
http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/keyboards/keyboard/devices/4740&cl=US,EN

 

This is a great keyboard, and a few days ago, it was on sale at newegg.com for $40:

http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?sduid=45936&t=1547085&highlight=logitech+keyboard

There may be another sale.

 

Man, sorry I missed that. I doubt you'll find it that cheap again, but I may be wrong. It is definitely a quality keyboard. The only thing I'm finding is that the spacebar is a little noisy compared with everything else.

 

htwingnut, I think you just found the new keyboard for my homemade laptop

It is like perfect in dimensions, - All I need to do is mod it a little and remove that front piece before the keys start, and it should fit in my chassis without a problem.

Thanks

K-TRON

 

NP. Glad I could help! LOL.

I've been looking for a keyboard that is like those in Padme's electric purple Sony. But I haven't found anything. I would think it would be less likely to get crud under those keys.

 

I'll also throw in the Microsoft Sidewinder X6 into the mix. It's also pretty low-profile, and although it's the same action as the G15 at al (and not scissor action), it features less travel as well, and quite a positive action. The keyboard has other nice touches including the swappable / removable numeric+macro keypad, and adjustable backlighting intensity as well as live macro recording. It's also - like other Microsoft keyboards, but especially so in this case - better built than any Saitek. I personally would find it a better prospect for those looking for an alternative to the Saiteks.

 

If you are looking to keep gunk out from under the keys, have you considered one of those rubber keyboards. OCZ makes them, as do other manufacturers. They are basically a punched piece of rubber stretched over the plastic keys. Their is no way to get dirt underneath them, unless the rubber rips

I dont know what it feels like, but a rubber keyboard probably feels quite different,

K-TRON

 

Those things are awful. I hate them with a passion. Think about wrapping your keyboard with bubble wrap and try to type.

I try to keep a pretty clean environment, but sitting at the computer just leads to munching on crackers, string cheese, and other various snacks that always find their way in miniscule form under my keyboard keys. Funny thing is that I'm fine eating at my desktop PC, but around my notebook PC almost never. Maybe because I know the desktop USB keyboard is easily and cheaply replaced whereas the notebook's is not.

 

I still don't see the draw for illuminated keyboards, besides aesthetics. From a functionality point of view, it neither speeds up my typing nor improves my productivity.

Different strokes for different folks though.

 

I type fast, but frequently use the computer in low light conditions for various reasons. It has helped from time to time to see a few odd keys, or to make sure I press the right function key. Otherwise, yes it is somewhat "gimmicky" but it's marginally useful.

 

Here's a review of the Logitech Illuminated Keyboard. It seems like a very solid keyboard. http://www.notebookreview.com/default.asp?newsID=4792

 

Thanks for review link. I agree with the cheapness of the clear plastic frame. New, it is clear and looks elegant, but with use, since it is plastic, I'm sure it will get scuffed and look cloudy and lose it's appeal. It would have been cool if light was pumped into the frame to light it up. That would have made it a nice touch. Otherwise, just eliminate it.

Like I mentioned before though, I shop for feel more than looks anyhow, and so far this keyboard feels comfortable and responsive.

 

I'd say more like bacon