Interacting with HTPCs: Logitech and Perixx Options Reviewed
by Ganesh T S on May 11, 2015 8:00 AM ESTComparisons and Concluding Remarks
Coming to the business end of the review, we have to take into consideration that the four keyboards reviewed in the preceding pages all target different price points and usage scenarios within the HTPC market. While the PERIBOARD-706 PLUS is a trackball keyboard, the other three provide touchpads. Personally, I prefer touchpad keyboards for HTPC use, but I can see users opting for trackball-based units given the advantage in terms of keyboard size. Some users believe that a backlit keyboard is a necessity for their HTPC setup and are quite willing to pay the premium for that. The Logitech K830 targets that niche.
The table below summarizes and compares the various aspects of all the wireless keyboard / trackball / touchpad combinations that we have reviewed so far.
| Keyboard Bench | ||
| Aspect | Logitech K830 | |
| Device Type | Keyboard + 2-button Touchpad | Keyboard + 2-button Touchpad |
| Dimensions | 14.40" x 4.90" x 0.65" | 16.14" x 5.71" x 1.02" |
| Weight | 1.09 lbs / 495 g | 1.12 lbs / 507 g |
| Power Source | Internal rechargeable battery | 2x AA |
| Communication | 2.4 GHz RF | 2.4 GHz RF |
| Power Saver | Explicit On/Off Switch | Explicit On/Off Switch |
| Keys Count | 79 + 3 volume control keys | 85 (with 11 multiplexed multimedia hotkeys) |
| Touchpad Dimensions (Diagonal) | 3.7" | 3.66" |
| USB Receiver Storage Compartment | No | No |
| Backlight | Yes | No |
| Keyboard Layout | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Ergonomics | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Build Quality | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| MSRP (USD) | $99.99 | $24.99 |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
As evident from the table above, it is difficult to declare one particular unit as the best HTPC interfacing option out there. All of the presented units could do with an upgrade to operation in the 5 GHz band. Backlighting and internal rechargeable batteries carry a huge premium. Thankfully, almost all of the above options carry an explicit on/off switch.
In our opinion, the Logitech K400 presents the best balance of price, keyboard layout, ergonomics and build quality for HTPC purposes. It is not for everyone, though. Readers interested in a particular feature can use the above table to narrow down their choices and see how they compare to the other options.
Moving forward, we are looking forward to reviewing more options in this particular niche. If there is any particular model that you would like us to review, please sound off in the comments.
Facebook
Twitter
RSS
76 Comments
View All Comments
cjs150 - Monday, May 11, 2015 - link
Personally I would look at bluetooth keyboard/trackpad combinations sold for tablets. I use one sourced from Amazon and it is very good from the sofa. They tend to be cheap and build quality can be variable but far better, for my purposes, than the models reviewedder - Monday, May 11, 2015 - link
Keyboard lyfeSamus - Monday, May 11, 2015 - link
The Perixx 716 was one of the worst HTPC keyboards I've tried, and I've tried many. It has terrible range and the stepped keys deliver a crappy typing experience. The Logitech K400 has the same crap keys, which is why I am shocked Genesh thinks this is the "gold standard" for HTPC keyboards. If he is basing that recommendation on price, the Microsoft Wireless All-In-One Media Keyboard N9Z-00001 is nearly identical spec at $25; a better all-around keyboard than the Logitech K400.It's unfortunate that nearly a decade after it was released, the diNovo Edge (Logitech) is to me the GOLD standard HTPC keyboard, having virtually every conceivable option right down to a dedicated sleep button and Bluetooth (REAL 30ft interference-free range without it cutting in and out.)
It's only problem is it isn't made anymore. Being a decade old design, it also lacks modern technologies like multitouch gestures for scrolling (although the 'circlepad' is workable for scrolling.)
Why has nothing been made to its caliber since?
jabber - Monday, May 11, 2015 - link
For a minute there I thought this was a retrospective article on the Sinclair QL computer from the early 80's!BillyONeal - Monday, May 11, 2015 - link
It saddens me to see Anandtech apply scores to things.megadirk - Monday, May 11, 2015 - link
I've been using the k830 for a year now. I haven't found any cons in that year. The battery lasts a long time even with the back light on. It works great using your right thumb as the mouse and left pointer finger for left click when you are holding the keyboard with two hands. Typing on it works even on my lap. I would recommend it to anybody looking for an HTPC keyboard, and don't buy it for $99, I got mine for $75 on sale.LoneWolf15 - Monday, May 11, 2015 - link
All I really want is someone to improve on the Logitech K400.Strengths:
-Power button and several other useful function buttons right on top. One press of the power button, and my HTPC is awake
-Inexpensive, though I would pay more
Weaknesses:
-Key layout is cramped. I'd pay more for a layout that matches my usual keyboard, and I'd be fine if this extended the width 1-2".
-Trackpad buttons are weak; I'd pay a bit more for ones built stronger
In short, I just want an improved revision of the K400 with a bit more standard layout that's built tougher, and as one last like, I'd love the tap-to-click not even exist, as it has been more of a pain. I've disabled it, but it hasn't always remained disabled. I'd easily pay double the $25 I paid for the K400 to get one with a bit more quality to it.
meacupla - Tuesday, May 12, 2015 - link
Try a Microsoft media keyboard.kgh00007 - Monday, May 11, 2015 - link
I have the K830 and it's awesome!It has a light sensor so that the backlight does not come on during the day or when the lights are on.
The battery life is awesome, for my use on my HTPC in the living room, the battery lasts for months at a time. I've had it for almost a year now and I've only charged it a handful if times.
The backlighting is great in the dark and it has been dropped several times without taking any damage. So durability is good too.
I would recommend it to anyone for living room use. It may be expensive, but you get what you pay for, a really great functional experience.
zachrohlfs - Monday, May 11, 2015 - link
Cideko Wireless Air Media. Had it for many years. The range is a bit restrictive if you are going through glass or objects. Otherwise it is small and once you get used to the directing of it, it is nice.