The Best of Both Phone, and Tablet
Similar to Logitech's higher-end diNovo Edge, the Illuminated Keyboard features Logitech's PerfectStroke key design. PerfectStroke allows for 3.2mm of space between each key and uniform tactile feedback across the entire flat key surface. In practice, the key response is similar to that of an IBM Thinkpad laptop. If you're used to typing on a regular keyboard with concave keys, the Illuminated Keyboard will be an acquired taste. Your accuracy might suffer in the interim, but we found ourselves typing significantly faster after less than a week of using it.
Although it is undoubtedly attractive and works well, the Logitech can use some improvement in the hardware design. First, the keyboard lacks the extra USB ports that we typically see on keyboards at this price. We complained about the Logitech G15's outdated USB 1.1 ports, so we have to ding Logitech again for not even including one port into this design. Granted, the keyboard's slim profile doesn't allow for much room for hardware extensions, but we'd sacrifice a slightly thicker housing for the increased functionality. We're also disappointed to see that the keyboard uses USB 2.0 instead a wireless RFID transmitter for connectivity. The clean aesthetic of the keyboard is almost spoiled by the unsightly gray wire protruding from the top, but if you're a closet gamer you'll appreciate the accuracy you get in a wired set up.
For your consideration, the Saitek Eclipse II Illuminated Keyboard is another illuminated keyboard that came out two years ago for $70. Its price is now down to $45; the Logitech is almost double the price, and we're quick to complain about its lack of features, but we think the higher price is justified by its elevated comfort and modern style.
