Product Description

The entry model of the Microsoft cable type keyboard. It features 10 hot keys and it is possible to access to Internet and the mail quickly by pushing the appropriate key as well as loading media centre. Other dedicated hot keys enable you to control volume, playback CDs and Video material using the fast forward, pause and stop keys. There are also dedicated hot keys for the calculator and for operational failure. Software installation is not necessary, you can just connect the Wired Keyboard 500 to your p...

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1359 in Consumer Electronics
• Brand: Microsoft
• Model: ZG6-00010
• Released on: 2007-02-15
• Platform: Windows XP
• Number of items: 1
• Dimensions: 7.72 pounds

Features

• • Microsoft keyboard allows you one touch access to e-mail, the internet and frequently used applications• Designed to withstand an accidental spill• USB or PS/2 connectivity."

Manufacturer's Description
Get fast access to e-mail and the Internet. Enjoy one-touch access to e-mail, the Web, and frequently used features. Control media activities with the touch of a button.Touch a button to quickly access e-mail and the Internet. Enjoy easy access to your favorite music, video clips, and media programs with the press of a key. Enjoy a drink while you work - this keyboard is designed to withstand an accidental spill. Navigate documents and Web pages effortlessly without using the on-screen scroll bar, saving time and effort. Ambidextrous design makes working more comfortable, whether you mouse with your left or right hand.

Customer Reviews

Perfectly good
If you are used to using laptop keys which are almost flat then this keyboard should be worth buying; the keys are halfway between a laptop and a regular keyboard. I found my last keyboard to be extremely noisy and the keys were so tall that the added effort of typing on them caused my fingers to ache after a while. This keyboard is faster and quieter. For me it suits perfectly. Also I love the shortcuts at the top for calculator, my computer, email, home, and media player.

OK, but not great
Given it only costs £7.99 and is the bottom model in Microsoft's range, I feel it would be harsh to award this two stars, so I'm giving it three stars.

The keyboard is functional, with light touch keys & seems reasonably sturdy (though I haven't had it long)

I also liked the fact it had a PS2 connection, so I didn't have to use one of my USB ports and it was wired (I get fed up with buying batteries)

The function keys to launch Explorer etc are also useful.

However, it lacks the "smooth" feel you get on a really good quality keyboard. The keys do feel cramped and the rear of the keyboard is only about 1cm higher than the front (so they keyboard lies almost flat on your desk)

As I result I wouldn't recommend this for large amounts of typing (especially if you have big hands)

In summary, if you're looking for a cheap keyboard & don't intend to do much typing then this might be fine.

But if you intend to do lots of typing, or want a top quality keyboard then I would look elsewhere.

Warning PS2 connector
At the very end of the technical specification amazon mentions the keyboard has a PS2 connector.

A PS2 connector is not suitable for laptop PCs which have USB sockets.

It would be better if Microsoft also provided an adaptor and confirmed the product worked with an adaptor.