Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I've been waiting for this keyboard since December. Microsoft has had problems in production and deadlines about this product. As of the day I write this, Microsoft's website "Press Pass" still publishes an article saying this keyboard and mouse set will be released "January 2007." That didn't happen. But it is here now and I'm not too impressed, even though I'm satisfied.
I was debating between getting this product and the Logitech diNovo Edge keyboard (these keyboards are media-centered keyboards, no numerical keypads in addition). I've used the diNovo Edge and I've liked it. I purchased this Microsoft product because it is both slightly cheaper and comes with a matching mouse.
The diNovo Edge has a lithium Ion battery and a recharging station which looks nice but is impractical because it stands the keyboard on an edge so that it cannot be used while charging (looks cool). This 7000 keyboard, however, is powered by 4 AA batteries, but this keyboard is just as slim and sleek as the diNovo keyboard. On another Microsoft webpage that profiles hardware like this, it is advertised that 4 AA batteries power this keyboard for "an average of over nine months." What is weird (and almost unnecessary) is to make the mouse (unlike the keyboard) come with a recharging base. It is as if Microsoft started with the newer (yet to be released) 8000 model of this keyboard/mouse set (which is going to cost more) and just started subtracting features. For example, whereas the diNovo and the 8000 model of this product have light-up features for dark room usage, this 7000 model does not. Also, the 800 comes with a hub that both the mouse and keyboard use instead of just a hub for the mouse (as in the 7000).
For me, I was disappointed when I started typing on this 7000 model keyboard because the key-depression sounds are as loud as my laptop or PC (some people however like a stronger physical and audible feedback from the keys as they type). diNovo has soft key-depression, and even though this 7000 model wasn't advertised with soft keys I hoped it was a basic feature. The Bluetooth technology works as expected. My favorite feature is the keyless Function buttons which can be redefined for your specific shortcuts. My mouse came with differing pressure levels for the right and left clicks and this has been irritating (the left-click is very sensitive).
In sum: the 7000 keyboard has a cheaper feel than the diNovo (mine is made of hard plastic and the diNovo is partly made of fiberglass); but I shook around this keyboard and pressed on its sides fairly hard: it's pretty durable. This is currently one of the most sophisticated keyboards on the market and it's the most Vista-ready keyboard currently. It's sleek, ergonomic, and rests no higher than your watch on the table. I'm satisfied.
Click Here to see more reviews about: Microsoft Wireless Entertainment Desktop 7000 (Silver)
Now you can transition between work and fun with unprecedented ease and comfort. This ultra-thin entertainment desktop set with a rechargeable mouse delivers top-notch performance with virtually no interference--from up to 30 feet away.
Give yourself room to move; wireless mouse and keyboard products let you work without worrying about tangled wires. The Microsoft Wireless Entertainment Desktop 7000 features 2.4 GHz Bluetooth connectivity with First Connect technology that makes it easy to connect wirelessly right out of the box. The desktop set includes a rechargeable mouse and keyboard with battery status indicators that flash when batteries need recharging.
Mouse Features The mouse's 4-way scrolling feature takes advantage of Microsoft's Tilt Wheel technology, letting you scroll four ways for greater efficiency and comfort. Meanwhile, the Instant Viewer function allows you to click the scroll wheel button to instantly display your open windows. Then you just point and click to select the window you want. Another feature, the Magnifier, lets you point and click to enlarge and edit details on your screen.
Keyboard Features The keyboard features an ultra-thin, ergonomist-approved "Comfort Curve" design that allows you to place your hands naturally and work comfortably using the distinctive quiet touch keys. This sleek design also reduces clutter on your desk, fits on your lap and complements your flat screen monitor. Meanwhile, an integrated navigation pad with cursor control makes it easy to command your PC from your lap or the comfort of your sofa.
Use the Media Center Start Button to gain one touch access to Windows Media Center, or press the Windows Start Button to launch your Start menu and search your PC or the Web if you have Windows Vista installed. The Windows Live Call Button accesses your Windows Live Messenger buddy list, while the Windows Gadgets Button gives you one-touch access to gadgets such as weather information, news updates, traffic maps and slide shows of online photo albums. Plus, when you're playing music or videos media controls on the keyboard allow you to easily navigate to your next or previous track. Or use the media controls to play, pause and control volume. Lastly, the "My Favorites" hot key makes it easy to access the folders, files, and Web pages you use most.
What's in the Box Microsoft Wireless Entertainment Desktop 7000 keyboard and mouse, rechargeable batteries, software CD-ROM, and Microsoft Mini Bluetooth Transceiver.
Click here for more information about Microsoft Wireless Entertainment Desktop 7000 (Silver)
