Microsoft Wireless Laser Desktop 6000
(Originally posted 8/2008)
By: James Oppenheim | Created: 2012-05-22 12:08:57 | (Updated: 0000-00-00 00:00:00)
The Microsoft Wireless Laser Desktop 6000 ($59.95) looks like a package aimed to compete with the Logitech Cordless Desktop Wave Pro: both have a slightly curvy keyboard perched somewhere midway between an ergonomic and straight design, and each ship with sculpted right hand mice. However, the Microsoft product is simply not in the same league.
First, it is apparent than no one over the age of 40 went anywhere near the Microsoft design lab when they were creating this model. The function key labels are so small (5 point type?) as to be nearly microscopic and the white on silver design only further impedes legibility. Specialized functions assigned to various other keys are nearly unreadable, rendering them nearly useless. In stark contrast to the Logitech design, the dedicated media center buttons are tiny and undistinguished. Finally, the keyboard’s touch is akin to typing on a keyboard made of wet cardboard. It takes effort to get the keys down, but they don’t yield a nice “click” or other feedback to let you know that they’ve registered. There is also no LED on the keyboard to let you know that caps lock is illuminated. Although packed with many of the same features as the Logitech bundle, this one feels under-designed and under-tested. It is sad that Microsoft, which really pioneered the implementation of new keyboard designs in the mass market has let the ball drop so badly with this keyboard.
