Logitech MK700 Review

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We recently built a HTPC an had a need for a wireless keyboard and mouse combo that we could use to control it. After trying no less than four planks from two different manufacturers, we finally ended up choosing Logitech's MK700 combo. We had some high expectations for our keyboard. We needed to be able to control the PC from a couch that is about ten feet from the TV, and it had to be responsive enough to be able to play some games (no small feat in itself). The MK700 combo retails for $99 from most retailers and seemed a little pricy when we first set out to find our perfect keyboard. After trying the lesser priced models from Microsoft and Logitech's lineup, we decided to see if the added price was justified for the MK700. Read on for the full review.

Logitech MK700 Keyboard and Mouse

Conclusion

After trying multiple keyboard / mice combos, the Logitech MK700 ended up winning us over. The battery life seems extremely well. After about a month of use, the battery indicator still shows a full charge. The concave keys make the board very thin and light, but do take some getting used to to maximize typing speed. We would like to see Logitech offer more devices that are compatible with the unifying receiver so that users can mix and match keyboards and mice to make a combo that works best for them. The MK700 combo is a solid choice for a HTPC and offered the speed and wireless range we needed to do some actual gaming on our wide screen TV. We were happy to see the option to set the scroll wheel to click function, a preferred setting for switching weapons on FPS games. The MK700 receives our editors top pick award, though it can be improved. The addition of a unifying receiver and standard keys would push this combo to "must have" status.

2/23/10 -Keith Soreghen-

Features

The first thing we noticed about the MK700 keyboard was the low profile, concave keys. This reduces the overall thickness of the board making it easier to move around. The keys are about the profile of a laptop keyboard, but the key travel is a bit longer making for a more satisfying experience. The keys do take some getting used to, but a few hours typing is all it takes to get accustomed to it. The rear of the board has two height positions to choose from and should be sufficient for most users. The LCD is basic, with battery indicator and key lock status available. The addition of a dedicated on/off switch is very nice, helping to conserve batteries when not in use. The MK700 also has a nice cushioned palm rest that was very comfortable for long gaming sessions.

The USB dongle is small, but not nearly as compact as the newer micro receivers that Logitech uses for some of their products. The unifying receivers will not work for this combo, an unfortunate fact. The mouse is sculpted for right handed users and was very comfortable to use for long periods of time. The middle scroll button has two positions to choose from; the traditional click scroll function and a hyper scroll function which allows you to spin the wheel with almost no resistance to quickly roll through web pages and documents. The switch for changing the wheel function is located on the bottom of the mouse as well as the on/off button to conserve battery life when not in use.