Review: Logitech Wave Keyboard

While wireless keyboards are very popular for reducing desktop clutter there are still good reasons to buy a wired keyboard.

For a start, there are no batteries to run out at inconvenient times and no chance of interference from other devices. The Logitech Wave Keyboard is a wired keyboard with a slight curve to it that makes typing more comfortable.

Installation is as simple as plugging the keyboard into an available USB socket and Windows does the rest (it's Mac-compatible too). It is worth installing the supplied Logitech Setpoint software as this gives better control over what the various shortcut keys do.

The function keys have a second function that's accessed by holding down the Fn button, which is something commonly found on notebook computers. We prefer this to the idea of switching between different modes as used by Microsoft keyboards because there is less chance of getting the wrong function.

The main keys of the keyboard are very comfortable to type on, being springy but without requiring too much effort. The curved layout is not the only ergonomic feature: the keys are at different heights to compensate for finger lengths. It takes a couple of hours to get used to that but after a while it isn't noticeable. It is worth pointing out that these adjustments worked well for us, being able to touch-type; the two-fingered typists out there might prefer a flatter keyboard design.

Another layout decision unique to Logitech is to double size of the Delete key in the centre block between the main and numerical keypads, and moving the Insert key off to the top of the keyboard. This again takes a little getting used to but we tend to rarely use the Insert key, so it's no great loss.

There are shortcut buttons for Widgets and Gadgets, and image editor, media player and for starting Media Center, along with the near-standard playback and volume controls.

One nice touch is the ability to route your headphone cable beneath the keyboard to help reduce clutter. It does work, and does help, and is one more clever feature of this clever keyboard.

Vista compatible: Yes