The Best of Both Phone, and Tablet
It's been two years since Logitech first debuted its Illuminated Keyboard, a corded input device that added an illuminated backlit feature to an otherwise classic PC keyboard. We gave it high marks for its practicality and affordability, but the core design just got an overhaul with the Wireless Illuminated Keyboard K800. This new model gets rid of the cord and incorporates not only adjustable brightness but also notable Logitech-exclusive features like the PerfectStroke key system and a USB charger for up to 6 hours of battery life at $99. With all these additions for just $20 more than the original version, it's easy for us to recommend the Logitech Wireless Illuminated Keyboard K800 to anyone shopping for an aftermarket keyboard to use in darker work environments.
The main difference with the updated K800 is the keys themselves. The layout is still full-size, but the individual keys aren't as flat or clicky as the original. Instead, they feel a lot like the keys on Logitech's DiNovo Keyboard Mac Edition, with a longer depression distance and a rounder shape to accommodate the PerfectStroke key design that allows for 3.2 millimeters of space between each key in addition to uniform tactile feedback across the entire flat key surface. The result makes each keystroke feel the same across the entire bed of keys, and though some users may need a couple of days to get used to it, we discovered improved accuracy and faster typing speeds after less than a day of constant use. The new key layout is also significantly quieter than the last version while still maintaining a subdued click to help you type.
The top row of keys contains the standard set of F1 through F12 keys, but with additional laser-edged insignias that control secondary functions like routing to a homepage, a mailbox, search function, media control keys, and more. On the far right of the keyboard just above the number pad, you'll also find four buttons for mute, volume up, volume down, and a shortcut that brings up the calculator.
Perhaps the most notable feature of the K800 is the updated illumination feature that now can be turned on and off using the power switch on the top right of the board. Additionally, you can now dial in the amount of illumination using the secondary function key in conjunction with the F5 and F6 button. It brightens and dims in three increments: low, medium, and high visibility. Finally, the keyboard also includes a built-in sensor that automatically fades out the backlight and can detect your hands as they approach and turn it off as you move your hands away from the device. All of these features are incorporated to conserve precious battery life, as this is the first illuminated keyboard from Logitech to include rechargeable AA nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries.
