Microsoft Wireless Optical Desktop Pro Reviews

• Easy Setup, Extremely Comfortable!

  
  By AILCWT1IIP7ZT on 2003-10-31
  Over the last 2-3 few years, I've used no less than 4 different keyboards and more than 8 different mice. As a programmer, I spend hours (10+) each day typing on the computer and then even more time after hours playing computer games. As such, the quest for a comfortable keyboard/mouse has been a long one; it has become my quest for the "Holy Grail" of comfort.

  I have to say that I am impressed with thie setup. The mouse is one of the most comfortable ones that I've EVER used. The keyboard is soft, tactile, and well laid out (spacing + key size). Both components operate without the slightest hint of lag, which is one big turn off I had in my previous experiences with wireless input devices. As far as the materials quality, both components feel top notch. While the keyboard squeaks a bit when you torque it, the plastics are certainly of high quality and the design is clean and functional (lots of handy quick launch buttons, all well laid out and labeled).

  Setup was a breeze. I was somewhat concerned as it appeared that I would have to use PS/2 to connect the keyboard while my laptop does not have a PS/2 board. However, the base station only needs to be connected via one USB port for both keyboard and mouse. And if you are using the USB interface with a newer O/S, this setup is completely plug and play with no need for any driver installation (for basic features). Some of the advanced features (like the horizontal scroll) require driver installation.

  So far as battery life is concerned, I can't comment at this time. But hopefully will be on par with similar models (Logitech at work has been on same battery for 3+ months now).

  So give this keyboard a shot if you've been waiting on the technology to catch up with the concept, if you've been having pain with other keyboard/mouse setups, or if you just want a cool looking wireless setup.

  ------UPDATE-------
  Since I've gotten this set in October (mid March now), I've been on the same set of batteries for the keyboard and I've changed batteries once for the mouse. Keep in mind that this is with regular 10+ hours of use a day.

  I've had some issues with the signal intering with other wireless devices (it's either my cell phone, cordless phone, or the router). This will cause the keyboard and mouse (mostly mouse) to act quirky. However, this can be resolved by 1) creating more space between your workspace and the suspect interering item and 2) hit the connect button on the base station and then on the mouse (usually the mouse goes quirky) a few times and it'll usually correct itself.

  Other than that, I have to say that I am still extremely satisfied with my purchase. Extremely comfortable! Cramping and pain in my hands have been reduced drastically since using this set. It's hard to believe that, before I got this set, I was feeling numbness and twitching in my right hand...still some pain now (you can't help it with 10+ hours on the computer), but it's much, much better.
  
  

• Breaker Breaker

  
  By A23O5LZQT3VANF on 2004-02-17
  Hello Everyone,

  So, I took the advice of my good friend and purchased this combo set. I'm glad I did BUT there are a couple of things you should know. First off, if you live in an area with a LOT of CB buddies you may find that the keyboard and mouse act funny at times. This is because they run on the 27 MHz band and if you're close enough to a CBer running some wattage, you can get inference. Also, note that NOT ALL BACK-UP SOFTWARE WILL SUPPORT WIRELESS USB MICE. I'm running Acronics True Image myself which supports such devices but, if you run Norton Ghost, Watch out!

  All this being said, I find the keyboard and mouse work very well and would purchase them again. Hey, give them a try for yourself, if you don't like them I'm sure Amazon will take it back and set ya straight.....they're good like that.

  Ciao!
  
  

• Get the function keys right, and it won't get returned!

  
  By A1WPQEBRQBFIJM on 2004-01-14
  OK - I bought one of these after returning a Logitech. Unfortunately, the thing that screwed up the Logitech is also a problem with this keyboard. As another reviewer noted, this keyboard is an FLOCK keyboard. What this means is that your function keys have been remapped to some "new and improved" settings. I've been using computers for 25 years, and I want the dang function keys to be function keys. I think it's actually much worse than the other reviewer said.

  Here's the situation: If you want your function keys to work, you have to hit the FLOCK key. You have to do it every time you boot, as it won't remember your setting, and you can't toggle it permanently. So, if you want to hit F2 to get into your BIOS, you better hit that FLOCK key in the 1/2 second window and then the F2 key. The same applies if you want to get into Safe Mode (F8). In addition, if you forget to hit the stupid thing each time you boot, you'll find yourself doing something stupid, like cutting text or sending mail or whatever instead of what you wanted to do.

  If it wasn't BIOS based (in the keyboard BIOS), you could probably easily toggle it with the driver, but they made it the default behavior for the keyboard. I'm extremely frustrated with Microsoft AND Logitech. If the leader of the herd jumps off a cliff, you don't have to follow!

  This is the stupidest thing I've ever seen two companies do. This is an otherwise fine keyboard, but it's going back too. I tried to live with the Logitech for a week, but I'm not giving this one that long. I can pick up a Memorex keyboard for 1/4 the price. I'll do that instead, and I won't bother buying another Microsoft keyboard until they stop doing this. (I own 3 already between home and work).
  
  

• Very Reliable, Excellent Response, Long Battery Life, Stupid F-LOCK

  
  By A3QGZDYIBW3V22 on 2006-05-03
  This keyboard does as it should. No problems typing from across the room (think multiple monitors or projection, not idiot who crosses the room to type just because it's wireless). Response is fast enough for gaming, and the keys don't object to being abused a little bit..
  
  Most of the basher reviews here seem to be about software crashing or that F-LOCK function. F-LOCK does in fact suck. F-LOCK bypasses the Function keys in favor of gimmicky "OPEN" and "E-MAIL" buttons designed for non-users. I would give it five stars right out, but F-LOCK is a feature in need of elimination. So I gave it five stars anyway (based on the no-way-out status of F-LOCK). You see, sadly, Logitech has jumped on this bandwagon as well, so there is no escaping the gimped function keys. A good friend is still mourning the need to return his bluetooth MX-5000 due to the extreme multi-faceted suckage.
  
  As for the software, eh, I've never noticed anything. It behaves for me on Windows 2000 and XP Pro alongside a whole host of various other devices.
  
  It's an "older" model now, and no it doesn't "do" anything.. No LCD or awesome blue lights. No lights at all actually. The thing is completely solid, and I would absolutely buy another one if I needed another wireless keyboard.
  
  **I will add one interesting bit of info, I've found that the keyboard seems to brodcast from the underside. If you put it flat on something too dense or irregularly shaped from too far away it has trouble sending a signal. The further away I am, the more propping the keyboard up at an angle helps the transmission.
  
  

• Quality Craftmanship and Superlative comfort

  
  By A1O03OBW5K9AFE on 2005-07-05
  Dear reader there are, broadly speaking, two categories of computer users in this world of ours. They are tribes of sorts, who while able to co-exist are each members of a vastly different world outlook. In the first category we have the techno-luddite masses, the digital proletariat who prefer the use of conventional keyboards either out of social indoctrination, inability to change, just plain ignorance or because they like the loud clicking sound on the older models. The rest of us understood the brilliance of modern science and we prefer ergonomic keyboards designed by professionals who have not only expedited the typing process but successfully made the user more comfortable to boot. We are a rare breed, if you're not one of us or thinking of joining our tribe I'm sure you can find a keyboard whose space-bar clicks loudly every time (which will surely make you smile and perhaps even drool as you press it)somewhere else on Amazon.
  
  For the rest of you, Microsoft's Wireless Optical Desktop Pro is what you have been waiting for. Stylishly presented and designed the keyboard has made significant advancements in the fields of usability and reliability. The keys are slightly translucent although it is difficult to notice this unless in bright light. The organization and quality of the buttons are second to none, each letter key is extremely responsive and virtually inaudible to depress. The wireless connectivity and response time are top-notch, in anything from fast-paced FPS gaming to lengthy text documents it has performed flawlessly.
  
  The Mouse is designed for someone who is right-handed and is of the latest Intellimouse Explorer 4.0 design. Complete with the traditional two button layout with center rollball function as third button and two additional "thumb buttons" on the left hand side of the mouse. The rollball includes the latest Intellimouse Explorer functionality of left to right movement, allow you to quickly scroll across usually wide documents or shift windows from one screen to another.
  
  Speaking as someone who has owned every iteration produced thus far: This wireless desktop set is the most advanced, most comfortable, and slickly presented ergonomic keyboard and mouse combo on the market. Regardless of whether you are a current member of the Ergo-tribe or seeking to convent, this is the keyboard and mouse combo for you.
  
  
• Microsoft Wirless Optical Desktop Pro Set
  By A1TNUVDGWTKKL5 on 2003-10-20
  Awesome set!!! I have had a Microsoft Natural keyboard for years, and loved it. When I saw they came out with a wireless desk top version I was delighted. And in colors that match todays computers. It was extremely easy to install and set up. I love the fact that the receiver doesn't have to even be on my desk. I also love the fact that there are no wires getting in the way of my work space. The ergonomic design is terrific. If you have had microsofts previous natural keyboards you're gonna love this set. The features are basically the same. A few minor changes have been made to the keyboard, but nothing big. The keyboard and mouse function wonderfully within a six foot range. Which is more than adaquate. Microsoft warrants the set for five years too. That is a fabulous warranty. (Be sure and save your receipts, make an extra copy so you don't lose it should you need to obtain service.) The set takes 2 AA batteries for the Keyboard, and 2 for the mouse. The batteries are said to last up to six months, but for those of us that are always on the computer we'll have to change them more frequently. If you find your set isn't fuctioning properly follow their reconnecting instructions first, try a different channel(all this is described in the manual), if none of those work, it's most likely your batteries. They take regular AA batteries like Energizer or Duracell Ultra. So they are fairly cheap. If your looking for a great wireless keyboard & mouse set this is it! It's so simple to use, try it. I sure enjoy mine.**** Please Note; I don't have the Pro 2 I have the Microsoft Wireless Optical Pro(looks identical with the exception of the mouse, mine is silver on top).
  
  
• Very good set, in spite of a few annoyances.
  By A3MJNV2OLFJ8YY on 2004-03-23
  I agree with the other reviewers that the F-Lock feature is quite a hassle. If the keyboard didn't boot to the mapped mode by default, I wouldn't have minded it. It would've been another useless feature for total newbies. But you have to REMEMBER to turn the mapping off every time you reboot!

  Notice that I emphasized "remember", because I don't mind clicking an extra key every time I reboot. The problem is, many times I forget to turn the mapping off and end up with totally unexpected results.

  For example, I'm used to pressing the F6 key when using IE or FireFox to move the cursor focus to the browser's address bar. I do this many times while browsing because I configured IE with PowerToys and use FireFox's bookmark keywords to write something like "imdb pulp fiction" or "amazon effective java" in the address bar to have IMDb search for the movie or Amazon lookup the book. Now if I forget to press the F-Lock key after I turned the computer on or restarted it, the browser's window will vanish away. The F-Lock feature remaps the F6 key to mean "Close" by default. Very annoying, especially if you don't remember exactly how you got to the webpage you were browsing.

  What makes the F-Lock feature even worse is that you don't have a clue if it's ON or OFF by just looking at the keyboard, which takes me to the next annoying feature.

  Instead of putting the CAPS-Lock, Num-Lock, and F-Lock (no pun intended) indicator lights on the keyboard, they put them on the wireless unit attached to the computer. I understand they made this decision to prolong battery life, but unless you have the wireless unit in sight, you won't see the indicators.

  Finally, sometimes it does act funny, as some reviewers mentioned, and I'm sure it has to do with oversensitivity to EMI or radio interference. For example, many times pressing Ctrl-V (to paste) using the left Ctrl button doesn't seem to work and just sends a barrage of letter "V" to the computer. But that doesn't happen so often.

  Having said that, I still give this keyboard four stars for the following reasons.

  1) The mouse is much lighter than other wireless mice, and therefore puts less stress on the wrist.

  2) The buttons are quiet, yet have clicky feel.

  3) Smaller footprint than the previous MS Natural Keyboards, which means once you get used to it, your fingers travel less distance and type faster.

  4) The new non-standard placement of the Insert, Delete, Home, Page Up, and Page Down keys, while needs some getting used to, is way better than the standard layout because it emphasizes usability. For example, on standard layouts, many times I unintentionally press the Insert key, and find myself overwriting text. In this new layout, Home and End are placed horizontally to emphasize their meaning (beginning and end of a line in a text editor); the Delete key is much bigger because it's the one you're most likely to use when editing text; and the Insert key has been moved way up because it's seldom used. But this will make using Shift-Insert (to paste) harder, so you'll have to use Ctrl-V instead (and hope there's no interference).

  5) Longer battery life, though at the expense of moving the indicators off the keyboard.

  6) Looks pretty nice, especially if you have a black monitor.
  
  

• Great but F-lock key is dreadful
  By on 2004-04-14
  I purchased this keyboard and mouse combination off Amazon a couple of weeks and love them except for one glaring issue...the F-lock key. If you're use to function key shortcuts (ie - Alt-F4 to close a window, F7 to spell check, etc.) please be aware that Microsoft has disabled them by default and changed the keys to perform these various functions directly. Of course, spell check is now where F10 use to be, and "close" is F6, and so on. You can turn off this "advanced" functionality but you have to do this manually every time you turn on the computer!!! By the way there is a "hack" (registry edit) that is suppose to fix this but it hasn't worked on my XP machine with this keyboard. Other than the F-lock key (and a few other key re-arrangements - home, end, page up are moved around) I love this mouse and keyboard...the mouse is sensitive, keyboard very responsive and I like the upper row of keys (above the function keys) that launch email, media player, etc. directly.
  
  
• Best wireless keyboard/mouse combo
  By A38T7HEXGCAWJA on 2004-08-24
  I purchased the Microsoft Wireless Optical Desktop Pro K48-00019 from Amazon.com about a month ago. It arrived very quickly. Setup was a complete snap.
  
  In the Box/Setup/Software
  Basically you will get an Installation CD-ROM that will very easily guide you through the setup process, batteries, the mouse and the keyboard. After a quick reboot you plug in the wireless receiver in either a USB or PS2 port in the back of your computer and you are ready to go! The software allows you to tweak all kinds of settings on the keyboard and mouse, just like you normally would. But you can also assign various programs to be controlled.
  
  Keyboard
  I bought this keyboard to replace a Microsoft Natural keyboard, (the split kind). I was concerned mostly about the way the keys would feel. The very nice thing about this keyboard is that the keys have a really good feel - they don't stick if I don't hit them just right like my old keyboard did. They are easy to push and have just the right amount of resistance. Also, across the top of the keyboard is a dual set of function keys. You can use them to copy, paste, reply, forward, etc. OR you can simply press the "F Lock" key and use them normally, F1-F12. The keyboard looks great, is fairly lightweight and doesn't feel cheap at all. Plus there are a number of handy buttons across the top that allow you to open My Documents, My Music, Messenger, and more. These can be programmed to other programs. So for the Media Player button, for example,I assigned it to Winamp. The volume control works great as well as the play/pause, stop and fwd/rev buttons in Winamp.
  
  Mouse
  I like a mouse that fits my hand. I have a rather large hand because I am tall and the ergonomic shape of this mouse is very comfortable. I thought it might be heavy because of the batteries but it is actually fairly lightweight. Like the keyboard it doesn't feel cheap at all. The scroll is improved, in my opinion, because it doesn't have the "click-click" feel of the older scroll - it is very smooth. The left-right scroll functionality is nice to use also, especially when I want to keep windows small. The buttons are totally programmable but I use them according to their default settings. There are two thumb buttons on the left side that are default programmed to take you forward and back in windows or web pages. I like these buttons a lot because it speeds up my internet browsing experience.
  
  Interference?
  I haven't experienced any signal interference since I bought the product. I use a Linksys router, cell phones, cordless phones and bluetooth equipment in my house and I haven't had any hassles. Plus, the product is suppossed to work up to six feet away from the receiver and I can go as far as 10-12 feet all the way across the room. It's fun to lie on my bed and browse the internet, write e-mails, write papers, etc.
  
  Overall recommendation
  I give this product five stars because it works well, was easy to setup, has a lot of customizable options, long range functionality and is cheap through Amazon.
  
  
• Lot of issues...
  By A223XQDSAH1H03 on 2004-01-27
  What I don't like:
  #1
  Sometimes it seemed to register me pressing a key longer than I actually has, sporadic and usually on the number pad.
  #2
  Function Lock: one of the dumbest things I've seen.
  #3
  Mouse was too inaccurate. Might not be an issue for people who don't adjust sensitivity on mouse. I'm one of those people who crank it way up and demand extreme responsiveness and accuracy. If you need this as well this product is probably not for you.
  #4
  Non-standard layout of those keys between main board and numberpad. I hate that.
  #5
  All those big buttons and shortcuts you put on top of your "high-end" keyboards... Maybe someone wants them but I don't. Don't make a wireless keyboard so huge I don't want to move around with it....
  
  What I like:
  #1
  Pretty quiet keys overall.
  #2
  New scroll wheel is nice. Hope to see this in future products. Smooth and responds faster than old tick tick tick.
  #3
  Broke Function keys into 4 groupings of 3 vs. 3 groupings of 4. Thank you! Once I got used to it I was more accurate/faster at finding my functions and not looking.
  
  
• The best keyboard on the market
  By A2IQAZTBGX6NH1 on 2005-11-11
  I am obnoxiously picky when it comes to keyboard and mice. I've got a pile sitting on my desk that are "for emergency use only" because I just couldn't take using them on a regular basis. The Microsoft Wireless optical PRO keyboard/mouse combo is the best available. It's responsive, reliable, and the keys are well-sized and feel correct. The optical mouse is sharp and well-designed. The keyboard never misses keystrokes, which can be an issue with some lower-end USB keyboards (I'm looking at you, Dell) and I've never had the slightest difficult with the optical mouse. This is a pricey package, but for something that gets so much use, it's totally worth it.
  
  
• Great combo
  By AB16LBWCC2EN9 on 2005-12-23
  As a computer professional I have just a few simple requirements: 1) No wires; 2) Comfort; 3) Reliability. This product meets all of those needs.
  
  Concerning battery life, I have had this for about 8 months. In that time I have changed batteries exactly once, which was last week. My guess is that most of the people who have battery life problems are using cheap dollar store batteries. Spend a few extra dollars and get the better ones. I use Rayovac Maximum PLUS. Second, don't use rechargeables. Those batteries tend to bleed power quickly just sitting around.
  
  With regards to signal interference: Don't place the receiver next to a monitor (LCD or CRT) and keep it away from your computer. Once I moved the receiver to be on the floor under my desk, all my signal problems went away. Every time the monitor was between the mouse and the receiver the mouse would skip.
  
  Although MS rearranged the Home, End, Delete, Pg Up, and Pg Dwn keys this new layout is easier when doing a lot of editing / moving around in documents and code. It took a couple weeks to get used to but now I wouldn't go back.
  
  There are two bad points in my opinion. The F Lock key doesn't keep it's setting between reboots. Annoying, but workable. The second is that there are no lights on the keyboard to let you know if the Num Lock or Caps Lock key is enabled. I'm sure the reason is to save battery life, but it's a little annoying.
  
  I highly recommend getting a good mouse pad and putting teflon dotz on the mouse feet. These improve accuracy and feel dramatically.
  
  I recommend this set.
  
  
• A few dumb design decisions short of excellent
  By A39KB6IF0YF6GU on 2004-08-17
  This is a great product that worked with no problems out of the box.
  
  Benefits:
  - Great range even with my keyboard tray being under the table and the receiver on the far side of the table.
  - Both, keyboard and mouse are a great ergonomic fit and perform well.
  - Touchtyping is very smooth, keys feel just right and are quiet.
  - Many useful multimedia and application shortcuts save you from switching to mouse for many tasks.
  - Easteatically pleasing combo.
  
  Detriments:
  - Nonstandard keyboard layour with home/end/delete buttons being the most problematic for those who touch type. I keep hitting delete button when I want End.
  - Function keys have dual functions, application shortcuts and function keys. Problem is that function keys are not keyboard default. This is wrong since most applications use function keys. No way to configure this behavior.
  - Caps Lock, Num Lock don't have LED indicators. You don't know if they are on until you type something. Another bad user interface decision.
  
  The few issues I mentioned will not affect causual users and those who do not touch type. However, mainly those people who spend a lot of time behind a keyboard will purchase split layout for ergonomic purposes and those are people who don't like non-standard layouts.
  
  Microsoft engineers came close to delivering excellent product but fell short, probably due to lack of user testing during prototyping. Given the functional shortcomings I'm rating it average.
  
  
• Good functionality, requires line-of-sight connectivity
  By A106P6GOZXSW9X on 2004-06-04
  The functionality of this product is good...when it connects. It seems to use infared wirelss, which requires near line-of-sight capability to work, instead of RF, which works better around objects. When I tried to place the keyboard and mouse in my sliding keyboard tray under my desk, I had to have the receiver under my desk as well and the mouse had to have an unobstructed path to the receiver to work. This required me to place a U-nail underneath my desk to keep the receiver in line between it and the mouse. I couldn't just have it anywhere under my desk, even though there are no objects under there that would obstruct receiving the signal.

  With my old Logitech wireless keyboard/mouse I could place the receiver above or below my desk and it worked if other objects blocked it's view.

  At first I also had trouble getting it to work through my Belkin KVM. The receiver has a USB cord for the mouse and a PS/2 cord for the keyboard, so I had to install the USB-to-PS/2 converter to fit it into my PS/2 KVM. After installing the IntelliType keyboard and IntelliMouse mouse drivers on every computer connected to the KVM I got it to work through the KVM fine. However, the drivers that came with the box didn't work through the KVM though, only the ones I downloaded from MSFT's website worked.
  
  

• So far so good
  By A1SW380WLMTUV6 on 2004-09-18
  I have been running this keyboard for about a week and I love it! The installation is easy, just run the CD, restart your computer and plug in the reciever to your old mouse/keyboard ports, then "link" your wireless mouse/keyboard to the reciever (just follow the diagram on the reciever) and voila! you have a slick looking, smooth typing new keyboard.
  
  As for the supposed six foot range of the keyboard and mouse, BAH!I am typing this from about ten feet away from my receiver, and the only reason I can not go further is because my room is too small. I also have the receiver behind some stuff on my desk. The ergonomically designed Natural layout of the keys is nice, it is in fact the major reason I finally bought a wireless system, other than the obvious reduction in cord clutter on my desk. I have always loved the natural keyboards (and yes, they take some getting used to if you are only used to the cramped original styles).
  How about this! Batteries INcluded. Nice touch on with that one. As for playing games, there isn't really any lag whatsoever.
  
  Now for the bad stuff... As others have said, the F-lock is slightly annoying, but I do not have many instances where it really is a problem. My only other complaint is the mouse. . . it fits my hand well, but two things could have been better: #1, move the "forward/backward" buttons (the buttons on the side of the mouse) back down to where they were on the MS Optical Pro. Where they are they are just a bit too high to use comfortably in games and such. #2, the new mouse wheel. It is extremely smooth when scrolling through web pages, documents etc, and the new side scrolling function is interesting, if not innovative, but the fact that the wheel can "wobble" (used to scroll to the sides of wide documents) makes it hard sometimes to use the middle mouse button as the normal "clicker" that I used to. Still, this new keyboard is nice. Both the mouse and the keyboard have quite a nice heft to them; you won't feel like you purchased anything cheap. The black color is nice too (fits my computer case and desk lamp nicely).
  
  So, if you are looking for a slick-looking wireless keyboard and mouse that feels good on your hands and sets up easily, this is a pretty good buy.
  
  true rating would be 4.58 stars.
  
  
• I really want to like this set
  By A23LEWQVONASVK on 2005-03-29
  There are a couple of issues with this combo -
  
  First the good:
  *The keys are quiet and have great feedback.
  
  *The wireless setup is good, and there is no lag.
  
  *Function keys are nice in theory
  
  *Split keys have saved my wrists. I use the computer 8-10 hours a day, much of it typing. With a regular keyboard, my hands ache and go numb. With the Natural series, I feel much, much better.
  
  The bad:
  *The f-lock problem as described below. This one is really bad.
  
  *The click wheel cannot function as a "middle button" when the driver software is installed. When the driver software is not installed, the click wheel works, but it cannot scroll sideways. The wheel click is very useful in Firefox to open links in a new tab, and close tabs.
  
  *I can get used to the key placements, but when using photoshop a common shortcut is to hold space down to move your selection. I am a graphic designer and use this trick all day long. With this keyboard, it is like it sends a series of spaces instead of one keypress and so photoshop looses the selection. It is so annoying I unfortunately cannot keep it.
  
  *Lastly, the media keys only work in WMP, not itunes or winamp. This is just an annoyance really, but come on Microsoft, please play nice for once!
  
  
• Solid keyboard and mouse
  By A230A2KOK29FCE on 2006-02-23
  I've used the keyboard/mouse for a little over a month now and have generally found it to do all I would wish. Of course, any wireless keyboard will at times not be as responsive as a wired keyboard/mouse setup, but this is more than offset by the lack of wires and the ability to pull the keyboard to wherever I wish.
  
  The only drawback, and it is minor, is getting used to the fact that there are no lights on the keyboard to indicate when CAPS LOCK or NUM LOCK is on. I have to look over at the wireless receiver for this. Additionally, it would be nice if there was an option for the keyboard to be backlit. Yes, it would draw down batteries more quickly, but as an option it would be user selected.
  
  All in all, a good wireless keyboard/mouse combination, and one I am quite glad I purchased.
  
  Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body.
  But rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming,
  
  "WOW, Lord! What a ride!"
  
  
  
• Great product for almost anyone
  By A2P30PTNWFNO0Q on 2004-02-12
  This wireless desktop set has a few things going that make it the best I've tried. First of all, the "natural" or "split" design of the keyboard makes it a pleasure to type. The extra buttons along the top of the keyboard (which I honestly did not think I'd use) actually come in very handy and are completely customizable. The mouse is shaped VERY nicely, assuming that you use your right hand for the mouse. The forward and back buttons on the side of the mouse are very useful when surfing the Web, without being in the way and getting pressed accidentally like other models I've tried. The smooth scroll wheel is very nice to have--you really have to try it to appreciate how much of an improvement this is. The scroll wheel also tilts side to side, which is very handy for navigating spreadsheets.
  
  
• Great Combo, But Gets Interference
  By A1IUANSOUF93LY on 2004-12-23
  I have used this keyboard/mouse combo for about 6 months now. I run a small business in web design and media development, so I use it everyday for about 10 hours. It's a great design works well, the mouse, although slightly heavy, is accurate.
  
  It got 3 starts from me because the range of the board and mouse varies. Basic things like a cordless phone and a portable hard drive interfere with the signal, causing a jerky motion in the mouse and missed letter in the keyboard. I have the wireless signal device VERY close to the keyboard (2 feet away), so it's not a matter of distance. I have tested this up to about 10 feet away. It sight, it works fine.
  
  So if you don't have many items on your desk that may interfere with the signal, you will enjoy this keyboard a lot.
  
  
• Decent Performer, Nothing To Rave About.
  By AM8LLUCVSDOQM on 2005-03-09
  What I love best about this:
  
  -Smooooooooth scroll wheel, it feels soooo good! You have to try it!
  -Optical tracking is excellent!
  -Keys are quiet and have good tactile feedback
  
  What I don't like:
  
  -Price is a little steep for what little it does.
  -Signal strength is horrible! I bought this to use for my Home Theater PC and line of sight range was a paltry ~4ft!! That's why I returned it.
  -Very few customization features at all for a wireless combo set of this price. You can program website URL shortcuts on the custom keys and that's about it. A set of this price should let you customize program launching, keystroke combo macros (like CTRL-C), and alot more (the LX700 does).
  -Extra media player buttons seem to only work with Windows Media Player (what a surprise?), I've tested it with the latest version of WinAmp v5.08. Not an issue for non-WinAmp users.
  -Bland styling.
  -Does not come with a docking charger for the mouse. So, you have to replace batteries for both keyboard and mouse. A combo this much should come with at least a charger & rechargeable batteries for the mouse. (yep, you guessed it! the LX700 does come with these)
  
  I've used 3 different combo sets (2 from M$ and 1 from Logitech) for about a month each. Get the Logitech LX700, it's $20 cheaper, does ALOT more, and is the BEST!!!
  
  
• Works Great!
  By A288XW2VPUVYOI on 2005-05-15
  This was my first wireless keyboard/mouse set, and I approached with some trepidation. Would it be non-responsive, or prone to battery failure, or radio interference, or otherwise marginal? After six months of use, I'm reporting that I'm a happy camper. It's as responsive as a wired keyboard and mouse, and it's handy to be able to move it freely on my desk. I had been previously using the "natural" (split); being a touch-typist, I had found the transition from traditional to split keyboard painless, and I agree that the split typing position is more comfortable. I see that Microsoft offers another "ergonomic" keyboard with a slight roll rather than the split; this will be a matter of personal taste, but I like the full split better. I use rechargeable alkaline batteries and freshen them up every couple of months, and it all seems to work nicely. Overall, I find the keyboard comfortable to type on. My only gripe would be the F-Lock key, which by default attaches new functionality to the old F-keys. Usually I want the traditional functionality, so I've got to remember to press F-Lock (which lights an indicator on the receiver, so I know it's set). The receiver sits on my desk and plugs into a USB port; it's about the size of a pack of cigarettes. It has the "lock" light indicators (presumably placed here rather than on the keyboard to avoid draining the keyboard battery). I also like the continuous scroll wheel on the mouse, as opposed to the ratcheted scroll in my previous mouse. (I didn't think I was going to like this, but I quickly came to prefer it. I haven't used the "tilt" feature of the wheel.) The two extra mouse buttons are programmable, although I was slightly disappointed to find I couldn't attach one of them to alt-Tab, which I would have liked. The black/dark color keeps it from looking smudged or dirty (although maybe if it were white I'd be motivated to clean it more often). Overall, I can't think of any keyboard/mouse I'd rather be using. I'm not sure whether to give it four stars or five, because I can't say it's so sublime as to render improvement impossible, but I don't know of anything better at this time.
  
  P.S. The keyboard has fold-down legs on the back, so you can raise the back and tilt it towards you if you want. I see another reviewer has commented that he would prefer fold-down legs on the front instead, so the keyboard could be made to tilt away rather than towards the typist. Yes, my first split keyboard had those front legs, and that was the way I liked them, but now nobody offers that feature. I guess I'm not the only person to lament the change.
  
  
  
• Solid product. Great accuracy and sensitivity.
  By A366MX4GTD39VF on 2005-11-11
  I've used the natural keyboard for 5+ years. All comments assume you are accustomed to the natural feeling.
  
  Keyboard. Sensitivity and feeling of the keys is very fluid. There is pressure without that hard feeling on your finger tips. Very comfortable. For a wireless keyboard, accuracy is right on. I use it within a couple feet of the wireless base and can't speak to how far away it works with 100% accuracy. Hot keys for MS products are great. If you are XP, you'll love the quick access to all your programs, files, and functions.
  
  Mouse. Sensitivity and feeling is great. Accuracy is on too. The mouse is slightly bigger than some other units out there. I am 6' tall with relatively large hands and this is comfortable. It may be big for smaller people, but it is a matter of what you are accustomed to. Scrolling is very fluid and controllable.
  
  All in all, solid product. Would recommend.
  
  
• Almost Perfect
  By A43JRVA2UW0RL on 2005-01-07
  This keyboard and mouse have replaced my Natural Keyboard Pro and Wireless IntelliMouse Explorer 1.0.
  
  Keyboard: Except for the F-Lock "problem" the keyboard is perfect. Keys are quieter, have a nice rough texture, and smoother stroke. Media buttons are better positioned (and more useful). No wireless lag. Line-of-sight range 6 ft, through desk 3 ft. All keys except F and media keys are semi-translucent for some reason.
  
  Mouse: I have big hands so I liked the much larger 1.0, but the 2.0 is probably perfect for the average user. Tracking is lagless compared to the move-and-wait 1.0. Tilt function is sweet, but the wheel button is too stiff (the 1.0 needs 1/4 lb, while the 2.0 needs 1 lb to click). Wheel doesn't rotate-click but has a nice viscous feel to it. (Though it could suck for gaming if you don't get used to it). Line-of-sight range 12 ft, through desk 6 ft
  
  The only better mouse I found was the Logitech MX 1000 but it's worthless once the internal battery dies. Overall this keyboard and mouse are the best looking setup I've seen, and for the price it's a great deal.
  
  
• The perfect keyboard!
  By A3JCZ6K2N4BBPG on 2005-05-27
  The Wireless Optical Desktop Pro from Microsoft is an excellent keyboard/mouse set. The keyboard is ergonmiccally designed so you will not get any wrist pain if you type for long periods. Also, you hands are in a more natural position when typing. You will need to get used to the new layout, but after a week you'll never want to go back to a "regular" keyboard. There are programmable keys on the top portion of the keyboard and they are ofcourse a big plus. There are volume up/down buttons that are bigger than the other buttons. Then there are the slightly smaller mute and play/pause/stop/next/previous buttons for controlling a CD/DVD player or other audio/video program. The other shortcuts can open Microsoft Windows Media Player, MSN messenger, a mail program, the "My documents, My Pictures, and My Music" folders.
  
  The mouse is also ergonimically designed. It is big enough to fit your hand like a glove and your fingers do not stick out beyound the top of the mouse. However to be honest, I've never used the tilt wheel as I've never had the need to do so. The mouse does need some getting use to since it has 2 AA batteries in it. The mouse will feel heavier than normal, but after a week u will get used to it.
  
  Battery life is also amazing. In the 1 1/2 years I've owned the Wireless Optical Desktop Pro, I've only changed the battery twice for the mouse and once for the keyboard. Now that is an amazing and worry free keyboard set.
  
  
• Your hands wont hurt with this combo. Love this keyboard and mouse!
  By A10X3S8SDWOS30 on 2005-11-21
  I had an older model of this keyboard and the older model had a different mouse as well. The older model I had needed to be replaced since i broke the feet that hold it up while slamming it on my desk one day (long story).
  
  So, I go out and look around for a replacement and I find this one which is the same keyboard but the keys are different and so is the mouse. The keys on this keyboard are transparent which look a bit updated but otherwise the keyboard looks the same as the older model. The mouse however is a huge improvement over the older model. This mouse is shaped different and has more buttons on it than the other.
  
  Both devices are a breeze to use and your hands and arms dont hurt after using either one for hours at a time each and every day.
  
  I do have some gripes about it though and here they are:
  
  1. The batteries are supposed to last 6 months or longer? Yeah right I had to replace the batteries on both the keyboard and mouse once I got it and have had to change them again since. I have changed them a total of 2 times in less than one month. Thank goodness I use rechargeable batteries. I honestly think that something near the devices must be interferring with the devices. I have lots of wireless devices near by and is probably the cause. Who knows.
  
  2. as another reviewer stated that the f keys dont work unless you use the f lock key first. This is a pain in the butt when you are doing reboots and have to go into the system bios or settings. You have to wait for the wireless base unit to initialize first then quickly press the f lock key then quickly press the F8 key before it loads into windows. It does require some quick reponses but eventually you do get used to it.
  
  3. My mouse acts up a lot but its probably due to the high amount of wireless devices I have around it and it also sits on top of a digital graphic pad. I just sometimes have to jiggle it a few times and it will work in an extreme case I will have to reset it. Resetting doesnt happen too often though.
  
  I highly recommend this unit because despite the little quarks here and there it is definately the most comfortable keyboard/mouse combo out there.
  
  If you type a lot then you need this combo for sure.
  
  
• Great Ergonomical Keyboard & Mouse Pair
  By AZLUV7K8E8LMA on 2006-02-13
  This purchase was one of my smartest purchases from Amazon. Earlier in the year I suffered from ulnar nerve damage, which is damage to your elbow, caused by excessive typing at an unnatural angle. (Always remember to type with your elbows at a greater than 90* angle.) The way regular keyboards work is they make you pull your elbows into your sides to type... this keyboard corrects that habit, and I'm able to once again have the use of the last three fingers of my right hand. The angle apparently pinched the nerve in my elbow connected to those fingers.
  
  The keyboard itself is pretty sleek looking, and I think it looks very nice. (I especially enjoy all the programmable keys on both the top of the keyboard and the side of the mouse, see pict). It replaced my original Dell keyboard/mouse, and its been great. On occasion, I will lie in bed and type from about 3-5 feet away, and everything will still be picked up by the wireless port which is great. This is a great kit, and I urge you to consider it! Once you get a hang of the keys with the ergonomical split, you'll understand how great the board is. Give it about 2 weeks before giving up on it. As a touch-typist it was a little rough at the beginning, but I knew I was doing what was best for my body.
  
  I changed the batteries about once in the two years that I have had the keyboard, and I use my computer every day for 5+ hours.
  
  
• Disfunctional mouse, Keyboard fine
  By A2599DWIA97AQ7 on 2006-06-05
  The wireless keyboard works fine, and shortcut keys for volume, calculator, etc are handy.
  Effective range from mouse to wireless puck is about 5 inches! Mouse goes through batteries incredibly fast. Went through countless alkaline AA's since I bought it a year ago (keyboard doesn't do this; still on original batteries). In contrast, previous Logitech wireless had great battery life and I never even thought about the range to the puck. This time I didn't buy a Logitech because couldn't find an ergonomic keyboard layout, but MS's mouse is so annoying that I'd never buy this again.
  
  
• Function Keys Don't Work
  By A3CCK03L83TQ92 on 2003-12-01
  This keyboard tries to give new "enhanced" functionality to the function keys (F1, F2... F10 etc.) As a result F2 has become "Undo". F4 has become the "New" command. If you are used to the old functionality -- using F2 to mean "Edit", Alt-F4 to close a window -- they will no longer work. The function keys have been effectively hijaaked and there's no permanent way to put them back.

  There is an F Lock key that toggles back and forth between the old normal behavior and the new "enhanced" behavior. Unfortunately if you like the old behavior, you must push this F Lock key every time you restart your computer. If you search on Google for "F Lock" you'll encounter a slew of people complaining about this and the fact that there's no way to fix it.

  If you like the way your keyboard keys used to work, buy a Logitech.
  
  

• Wonderful Product
  By AXNBIB7SMOI5O on 2004-02-13
  I have always been a fan of the Microsoft Natural Keyboard but I had always wanted a wireless one. This combo works very well and I think the price is very reasonable. Overall, I think this is an excellent product and so far I'm very pleased with my purchase.

  I've seen many people complain about the function keys and while I can see this as a potential problem, I personally don't mind the change. All of the functions are there for me and it saves me a keystroke (e.g. Press the Close(F6) button instead of Alt+F4) The mouse is a nice change though it takes a bit getting used to for the smooth scrolling as opposed to the clicking of the past.
  
  

• No Doubt--This will be my next "new"......
  By A38PNZNRZHOE8Q on 2004-02-26
  There is "no doubt" in my mind that this wireless combo from Microsoft will by my next "new" keyboard. I already use one of Microsoft's "Hot Key", "Wave", split keyboards and I will "never" go back to a standard keyboard setup ever again. I have arthritic hands & wrists, and since I have begun using this type of keyboard, my hands and wrists no longer hurt while I am working on my computer. The built in "slope-down" feature for a hand rest is ideal for people like me as well.

  However, it did take me a good 2 weeks to become familiar with the new way the keys and function buttons are positioned where they are, but I urge folks who are considering this kind of setup, not to be discouraged. It's a dream not have all the keys srunched up and jammed together like a "typical" keyboard is setup. I for one, will "never" go back to the "old" kind of keyboard ever again.
  
  

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