Logitech Wireless Desktop MK710

With its smooth, curved edges and stylish design, the Wireless Desktop MK710 keyboard and mouse set is an instant eye-pleaser.

The set comprises Logitech’s new MK700 keyboard and the M705 laser mouse, both of which connect to the PC using a supplied miniature USB adapter.

As anyone who owns a wireless keyboard and mouse knows, one of the biggest irritations is when the battery on either unit runs out. Thankfully, with the MK710 this is a fairly rare occurrence – both take two AA batteries that, according to Logitech, can power them for up to three years.

However, the MK700 keyboard's usability is disappointing. The keys are crammed in very close together, while the low-profile design was difficult to get used to. On the plus side, the soft, padded wrist-rest along the bottom of the keyboard felt comfortable.

There are no strange key placements, but Logitech has opted to ditch the Windows Context key that usually sits next to the right Ctrl key. Used as a keyboard shortcut for right-mouse clicks, the Context key can be tremendously useful and it is a surprise this keyboard does not have room for it.

In its place is a large Fn key that can be used in conjunction with the function keys along the top for a range of other shortcuts.

At the very top of the keyboard there are six media shortcut buttons along with a small screen that displays battery life as well as the status of settings such as Num Lock and Caps Lock.

The M705 mouse is slightly smaller than most, but thanks to a good design and some well-placed shortcut buttons it was comfortable to use. At the press of a button, the scroll wheel loses its clicking motion and flows freely, which was useful for navigating through long documents at speed.

The mouse also performed well on a variety of surfaces, but due to its asymmetric design left-handed users are left out in the cold.

Logitech has produced some excellent desktop sets in the past, but despite its good points and some extended testing we never felt truly at home with the MK710.