Give it a try
Written: Jun 15 '01
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Ergonomic build, 2 USB ports, lateral firmness of keys
Cons: Rather large and bulky
The Bottom Line: It is difficult to argue against better ergonomics, especially at such a reasonable price.
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| lordchocice's Full Review: Microsoft Natural Pro (B61-00002) Keyboard |
Fortunately, I am able to write this review while using my Natural Keyboard Pro, so I can continually observe it as I type. Unlike many microsoft products, the benefits FAR outweigh the costs.
Most obvious about this keyboard is the shape. Essentially, it forces the user to have a relaxed posture while typing. I tend to type with my keyboard in my lap, so it helps alleviate any sort of cramping in my hands/wrists. The long bar on the bottom provides and excellent palm rest, allowing your fingers to flow freely over the keys.
The keys themselves are excellent in that they are not too loud, but you can tell when you've pressed one. They do not have very much lateral movement, unlike many other keyboards, which means that if you rest a finger lightly on a key, you cannot move or bend it very far. It's a mark of a well made keyboard, in my opinion.
The two USB ports are an excellent idea, as with most USB devices, you sacrifice precious USB space (usually one of your typically two slots), whereas this product gives you one NET USB slot, kind of like a mini-hub.
Not wanting to detract from the excellence of the keyboard, I must say that it is big. The buttons at the top aren't necessarily useful, especially if you only use the keyboard for typing (and not shortcuts). Many computer purists will not use the buttons on top for "home" or "favorites".
Also, although this may be my unique quirk, the "B" key is located on the left side. I am aware of many coworkers who learned to type the "B" key with their right index finger, so this is a minor paradigm shift for some. However, I think that prevailing teachings demonstrate left finger use of the "B" key, so this may be a moot point.
Far and away, this is the best keyboard I have owned. I would recommend this as a mandatory purchase for anyone who types a fair amount during their day, or for anyone purchasing a new computer system. It can be acquired quite inexpensively, and the marginal cost of this keyboard over some generic rectangular keyboard is very little.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 40
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Epinions.com ID:
lordchocice
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Location: Seattle, WA, USA
Reviews written: 32
Trusted by: 3 members
About Me:
Informed buyer and reviewer who resides in Seattle, Washington.
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