Keyboards and Mice

Choosing a Keyboard and/or Mouse

If you spend a lot of time (like we do!) typing away on your system or using your mouse extensively to work with graphics software,

 you know how important a good keyboard and mouse are!  Not only will a good keyboard and mouse increase your "comfort" factor immensely, but they will also help make you more productive by helping you to work more efficiently and effectively. 

So what should you look for in a keyboard and mouse?  We're sure that most of you are probably wondering if there are any real, discernable differences between products.  But we believe that there ARE differences that are not only noticeable but significant.  Here's what to look for:

• Connectivity - Sure, you can stay with the old stand-bys and use a PS/2 or USB connection, but if you have a swivel chair in your office, or like to move about a bit when you work, you'll REALLY like newer wireless options (including high speed Bluetooth technology).
• Mousing Technology - Ball mice are the low cost solution, but a trackball (for comfort and greater precision) or an optical mouse (you'll never have to clean a ball again and you can get rid of that silly mouse pad!) provide better accuracy and more speed.  And then if you add wireless....
• Keyboard/Mouse Style - Ergonomics is the key word here.  Whether it is the keyboard or the mouse, if you spend hours working with the device, it is important that strain is reduced on your hands and wrists.  There are now a number of "ergonomically correct" mice and keyboards to help you ensure that working with your system won't be a "pain".  "Natural" keyboards (like those from Microsoft and Logitech), Ergonomic mice like that from 3M are all available.  Additionally, many keyboards come with wrist rests already attached or pre-formed as part of the keyboard.  What is most important here is what works for well for you.  If comfort is key for you or you have physical limitations/problems with your hands, wrists, arms, shoulders or neck, take some time to try before you buy.
• Touch and Feel - If you are a fast typist, you already know what we mean here.  Does the keyboard have the "bounce" you like?  Does it feel as soft (or stiff) as you like.  Again, all about personal preferences - so trying before buying is the thing to do (where possible).
• Programmability - High end mice and keyboards often include specials keys or buttons to perform "standard" actions - either pre-programmed common ones like launching a web browser, instant messaging service or going to the "my documents" area on the system or offering the capability to "program" specific actions that you perform on a repetitive basis.  These programmed keys can be real time (and keystroke, "click") savers.  So, if you perform repetitive tasks, look into mice and keyboards that are "programmable" - and make sure that the "programming" is easy and fast.

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• Battery type/life - If you do choose to go wireless, you'll also have to choose between systems that are rechargeable and non-rechargeable.  If you don't mind dropping in regular batteries, from time to time, a non-rechargeable system is fine, but if you live with your system and hate seeing the signal for "low batteries" and can't for the life of you remember to keep them in the house, a rechargeable system is probably best.  By the way, we've used wireless keyboards and mice for 3 years now and can say from experience that you don't have to change batteries very often.  It's quite amazing how many MONTHS go by between "low battery" indications.  And, as you can imagine, our keyboards and mice take a beating!

So, ready to take a look at what is out there?  We've tried to hit on the majority of keyboards and mice and their manufacturers.  In fact, the number was so large, that we had to build a separate document with all the choices on them (and relevant information).  You can find this document at:  Keyboards and Mice - Product Matrix.

Additionally, we've chosen our favorite keyboard, mouse or "desktop" from every manufacturer.  Just look for the 78 symbols!

Keyboards and Mice Review