Logitech Illuminated Keyboard
(Originally posted 08/22/2008)
By: James Oppenheim | Created: 2012-05-22 11:54:48 | (Updated: 0000-00-00 00:00:00)
It's sleek, it's black, and it is illuminated. It feels great under the touch of your fingers. If Darth Vader had a keyboard, the $79.99 Logitech Illuminated Keyboard would be the one he would have. 'Nuff said.
You want more, sure: Slim (9.3-mm thin), but not flimsy. In fact, it has just enough heft so that it won't go flying. The futuristic, minimalistic look is enhanced by a thin, transparent border similar to the look Sony used on some of its high end plasmas.
The keys (nearly silent) have just the right amount of "throw". They don't seem to come "up" out of the base of the keyboard as high as on most; but I had great feedback from the device. It doesn't seem that such a slim design could host such a sturdy keyboard, but typing on it gave great tactile feedback, and a lot more comfort than I associate with "straight row" keyboards.
After it's thin form factor, the most obvious design feature is the illuminated, laser etched keyboard. I've tried a number of illuminated keyboards, including the Logitech G15 Gaming Keyboard and the Reclusa, but this one looks the best. There is a crispness to the lights (which can be adjusted) that can't be beat. It looks like it could have come off of the Death Star.
Downsides? I wish the function keys were a bit better distinguished from the other keys. I prefer "natural" keyboard designs over the traditional one used here. None of that takes away from the fact that this is one of the most compelling designs for a keyboard I've ever tested. It has good looks and functions extremely well. It makes a statement without going over the top: like a perfectly fitted suit.
With the economy in turmoil, many of us will be looking for under-$100 holiday presents. The Illuminated Keyboard will bring many smiles when it is unwrapped!
