Review of Microsoft Wireless Entertainment Desktop 7000 (Silver)

I’ve been waiting for this keyboard since December.Microsoft has had problems in production and deadlines about this product.As of the day I write this, Microsoft’s website “Press Pass” still publishes an article saying this keyboard and mouse set will be released “January 2007.” That didn’t happen.But it is here now and I’m not too impressed, even though I’m satisfied.
I was debating between getting this product and the Logitech diNovo Edge keyboard (these keyboards are media-centered keyboards, no numerical keypads in addition).I’ve used the diNovo Edge and I’ve liked it.I purchased this Microsoft product because it is both slightly cheaper and comes with a matching mouse.
The diNovo Edge has a lithium Ion battery and a recharging station which looks nice but is impractical because it stands the keyboard on an edge so that it cannot be used while charging (looks cool).This 7000 keyboard, however, is powered by 4 AA batteries, but this keyboard is just as slim and sleek as the diNovo keyboard.On another Microsoft webpage that profiles hardware like this, it is advertised that 4 AA batteries power this keyboard for “an average of over nine months.”What is weird (and almost unnecessary) is to make the mouse (unlike the keyboard) come with a recharging base.It is as if Microsoft started with the newer (yet to be released) 8000 model of this keyboard/mouse set (which is going to cost more) and just started subtracting features.For example, whereas the diNovo and the 8000 model of this product have light-up features for dark room usage, this 7000 model does not.Also, the 800 comes with a hub that both the mouse and keyboard use instead of just a hub for the mouse (as in the 7000).
For me, I was disappointed when I started typing on this 7000 model keyboard because the key-depression sounds are as loud as my laptop or PC (some people however like a stronger physical and audible feedback from the keys as they type).diNovo has soft key-depression, and even though this 7000 model wasn’t advertised with soft keys I hoped it was a basic feature.The Bluetooth technology works as expected.My favorite feature is the keyless Function buttons which can be redefined for your specific shortcuts.My mouse came with differing pressure levels for the right and left clicks and this has been irritating (the left-click is very sensitive).
In sum: the 7000 keyboard has a cheaper feel than the diNovo (mine is made of hard plastic and the diNovo is partly made of fiberglass); but I shook around this keyboard and pressed on its sides fairly hard: it’s pretty durable.This is currently one of the most sophisticated keyboards on the market and it’s the most Vista-ready keyboard currently.It’s sleek, ergonomic, and rests no higher than your watch on the table.I’m satisfied.

Product Description
The Microsoft Wireless Entertainment Desktop 7000 includes a thin Keyboard with curve design and High Definition Laser Mouse for precise performance. The mouse features a Magnifier button that lets you easily point and click anywhere on the screen to enlarge and edit details. With 4-way scrolling wheel, the mouse helps you navigate through worksheets, Web pages, photos and more with ease. The keyboard features quick Windows Start Button to launch your Start Menu and Windows Live Call Button to access your Windows Live Messenger buddy list. In addition, the keyboard includes Navigation Pad that lets you command your PC from your lap or the comfort of your sofa with the integrated cursor control. Featuring 2.4 GHz Bluetooth Technology and Battery Status Indicator, the Wireless Entertainment Desktop 7000 delivers performance with virtually no interference from up to 30 feet away.

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Tags: 69Z-00001, Microsoft, Microsoft Wireless Entertainment Desktop 7000 (Silver)