My new (wired) keyboard

As a full-time writer, I need a keyboard that works well for me. As a touch typist, the keys need to find my fingers; the keyboard needs to react quickly; the touch has to feel good.

I had been using the wireless Wave keyboard that Logitech gave me about two years ago.  I liked the wave shape and the multimedia controls. But I found that I could not type on it as quickly as I would like, and I seemed to make an inordinate number of splling erros. I think the problem is that the keypress is too deep, and so my fingers would catch on undepressed keys.

As the painted on letters began to wear off, I began looking for a replacement. Any keyboard I tried in Future Shop, Staples, Best Buy, London Drugs was unsatisfactory. Last week I read in a flyer about a new pair of keyboards, but then I forgot which store was carrying them.

On a hunch, I tried Future Shop, but they did not stock the new brand. Idly, I tested the Microsoft and Logitech models. Still no go. I noticed a new keyboard from Logitech -- with the generic name of "Logitech Illuminated Keyboard."

Its keys felt fast and shallow. Each key was individually lit by an LED, suitable for when I work late at night (or early in the morning). It had media keys. And it has a stunning, clean design.

It was pricey (about $100) but I decided to go for it. I am pleased with how fast I can type again, error-free.

But here the part that puzzles me: the box boasts of PerfectStroke key system:

Research shows that a longer distance required for each keystroke (key travel) improves typing experience. Logitech's PerfectStroke system, with precision micro-scissors, gives you more key travel than typical notebook keyboards. So every stroke is comfortable, fluid, and silent. Tested for up to 10 million keystrokes.

 Let's examine the statement:

• This  keyboard's travel is shorter than most other keyboards, including those from Logitech. I find shorter travel is better for faster typing.

• Why are they comparing a keyboard for desktop computers with that of a notebook computer?

• Strokes with this keyboard are fluid, but not silent. They keys make a clattery tap sounds. 

Still, this is a good keyboard for me.

 

Comments

[Bill]

I'm glad you were (and hopefully still are) happy with the illuminated keyboard. I was collecting the diNovo Edge keyboard and noticed the superb feeling so I decided to google the keyword PerfectStroke.

I think Logitech compared the keyboard travel (3.2mm with the PerfectStroke system) with that of a notebook (typically 2mm, like the old Thinkpad of the same era) because of the mutual low profile design. It's like saying hey my sports car can hold 2 suitcases whereas others can only hold 2 bottles of water lol. It wouldn't be fair if the comparison is between a sports car and a van.
I would also imagine some lubing could reduce the clattery tap sounds, but I haven't gotten the time to experiment with my collections.

[Rande Robinson]

Still using an IBM Model M keyboard from 29SEP89. Been through PCDOS, Windows 3.X-11 still works fine.