Finally somebody's invented a backlit keyboard that's wireless. Logitech just rolled out its clever Wireless Illuminated Keyboard K800, a beautiful, thin and efficient input device that's perfect for those dimly-lit late-night computer sessions. I have one in my lap here, and I'll tell you all about it.
I must admit, I'm not much of a typist. Brought up in the age before typing skills became commonplace, I still need to glance at the keyboard from time to time. That's why I've been looking for a backlit keyboard that does away with those pesky wires. Logitech has fulfilled that need with style and grace.
When I've talked with keyboard manufacturers over the years, they've always told me battery life is a big problem when designing a wireless backlit keyboard. Logitech solves that conundrum with a clever motion sensor, detecting when your hands get near the keyboard, and backlighting it only when you need it.
The backlight is automatically adjusted depending on how much ambient light is in the room. It's never very bright, but it's always at the perfect level for your surroundings. In fact, it's hard to tell there's even a backlight at all, but the keys just pop out at you. Bravo, Logitech!
I've been using this keyboard a lot over the past four days since I received it, and its batteries still haven't required a charge. Logitech says the keyboard will run for 10 days on a single charge. When its battery runs out, it's simple enough to recharge it by plugging it into a PC or Mac using its included USB cable, and you can still use it as a wired keyboard while it's charging.
While $100 is a lot to pay for a keyboard (psst! You can find it on the web for $83), this ultrathin device with its smoothly rounded and quiet keys oozes quality. The best place for such a device? Controlling a computer in a home theater, where it'll be easy to see what you're doing in the dark. For that, it's highly recommended, as it is for everyday desktop use.
Via Logitech
