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(More customer reviews)HP Wireless Elite KeyboardI needed a modern keyboard to replace the archaic Win95 PS/2 version that I had been using since 1996.I wanted a portable, wireless keyboard with a small footprint.Essentially, that means no wrist pad.Also, I did NOT want a bloated keyboard with a bunch of gimmicky buttons.Finally, I wanted to keep a reasonable budget --- I did not want to break the bank for a simple keyboard.Seems simple enough... but it took me *months* to find one that matched all my criteria.In the end, the HP Elite was my only option.There were no other viable alternatives.
For the most part, the keyboard meets (but does not exceed) my expectations.It's everything the photos show you, and everything the specs sheet say.Nothing more, nothing less.
The keyboard is incredibly slim and lightweight.It's not intrusive, and feels nice to have on your lap while typing.It also has an excellent range --- the signal remains strong even when I'm several yards away.This would've made for an excellent HTPC keyboard, except it lacks the all-important thumb pad.
Speaking of thumb pads, the HP Elite feels very much like a laptop keyboard.It's very quiet, and each keystroke doesn't travel very far.There are dedicated buttons for volume, and also one for sleep.There F1-F11 buttons can double as multimedia buttons when used in conjunction with the Fn (Function) button.I like the minimalist design, even though I was a bit disappointed by the lack of zoom buttons.
There's no need for a wired receiver cluttering your desktop; all the keyboard requires is a little USB dongle plugged into the PC.The dongle has a blue LED that lights up with every keystroke registered.The LED is ridiculously bright, and can be quite annoying if you're working in a darkened room.
There is no indicator at all for the status of your CAPS and NUM locks.It doesn't bother me, although it might bug some people.
My only real complaint with the keyboard is its build quality.It is simply ATROCIOUS.The keyboard is essentially assembled from four panels: Top, Bottom, Left, and Right.The top & bottom are rock solid.The keys themselves feel great.But the side panels?Ugh!!!They feel ridiculously cheap.And you have to touch these panels whenever you grab the wireless keyboard.They are not even completely fastened into the chassis; the slightest contact with your fingers will cause these panels to jiggle.Waaay too much wiggle room in these sections.If you grab the keyboard by the sides, you will hear the side panels move, rattle, and/or squeak.Just awful, AWFUL construction --- this feels very much like one of those cheap OEM accessories that come free with low-end DELL and HP systems.When I first saw the keyboard on display at Fry's, I noticed one of the side panels was missing.I naïvely thought it was just a fluke accident; now I know that wasn't the case.
Despite the poor build quality, I remain more or less pleased with the keyboard.Functionally, it has met all my expectations.And it's not like there are viable alternatives out there that meets all my criteria.Definitely a big change from the bulky Win95 keyboard I had been using since 1996.They don't make 'em like they used to, though.That old keyboard stayed with me for 13 long years.I don't think this HP keyboard will last half as long,Given its flimsy construction, I would be surprised if this thing even lasted 3 years.
I give it 3 stars out of 5.
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Product Description:
Built-to-last, the HP Wireless Elite Keyboard (model FQ480AA) provides a full featured keyboard that combines style and high-tech key design to deliver an ultra-thin design and silent operation.
The ultra-thin and stylish HP Wireless Elite Keyboard. Features & Specifications
High-tech design: The black finish and silver accents along with the low profile key design offers a distinctive style. The reduced foot-print design saves desktop space
Silent operation: High-tech scissor switch keyboard design offers a quite experience.
Wireless freedom: Free yourself from wires with wireless keyboard--up to 32 feet. Advanced 2.4 GHz wireless technology for less delays or dropouts. The included wireless USB mini-receiver installs effortlessly and eliminates clutter. Wireless mini-receiver has connect light and PC status blue-LED
Get more control: Control your entertainment experience with a comprehensive set of multimedia keys.
Convenient access for multimedia controls
3-buttons for easy volume control
HP TouchSmart PC hot keys
Energy efficient: Conserve energy with PC sleep button. Monitor battery level with convenient on screen battery level indicator. Long battery life (keyboard -- 12 months typical)
Easy to keep clean: Spill resistant keyboard for easy cleaning.
Adjustable keyboard height with 2 different positions
2.4 GHz USB wireless receiver
Compatible with Microsoft Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7
Compatible with HP PCs and non-HP PCs
1 year limited warranty
What's In The Box
HP Wireless Elite Keyboard, USB wireless receiver, batteries, software CD and documentation
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