Logitech Cordless Desktop LX501

Wireless keyboards and mice have come a long way since the days when their connections with the PC would regularly cut out, creating many a mistyped letter. Logitech's LX501 is the latest in a long line of improved models, and it shows. It comprises a stylish, well-made and sturdy keyboard and a comfortable mouse.

The keyboard and mouse take two AA batteries each, which Logitech has included in the package. Setting them up is simple: just unplug your current keyboard and mouse and insert the two plugs supplied into the appropriate sockets.

If you are using a notebook, it's even easier: insert the USB plug into a spare port. Although it will work fine like this, you can install the drivers from the CD to make full use of the many programmable keys and buttons on the keyboard and mouse.

The keys have fairly strong springs and there's a wrist rest, so typing is more pleasant than on cheaper keyboards. This will also be good for your hands in the long run, reducing the risk of repetitive strain injury.

The mouse is well-designed, and shaped to fit the palm of an average hand. It includes a scroll wheel as found on most modern mice, but this one also scrolls from side to side, giving you an extra way to navigate a window or website.

It also includes a small button below the scroll wheel which brings up a small window on screen that allows you to scroll through the open applications. It does roughly the same thing as pressing Alt+Tab, but it's useful nonetheless.

The keyboard has over 30 customisable keys for playing media, navigating and browsing applications and the internet. However, because these are programmable, they look like the other spare keys, which can initially be confusing. Overall, it's not cheap, but it is a very good desktop set.

Contact: Logitech 020 7309 0127
www.logitech.co.uk