LiNKiN
01-07-2008, 05:17 AM
[page=Introduction & Packaging]
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/logisyslogo.jpg
I would like to thank Logisys Computer Inc. (http://www.logisyscomputer.com) for supplying the review sample.
Here is what Logisys Computer Inc. (http://www.logisyscomputer.com) has to say about their Vision and History according to their "About Us" web page:
Not long ago a computer was not more than a programmed typewriter and calculator, its memory size was less than what we have in most of our cell phones. For quite a long period of time, the computers, consumer electronics and communications stayed at their own track, without any crossing and overlapping. It is not until recent years the 3C brothers started to merge and integrate and that fundamentally and profoundly changed the world we live in.
We are one of the pioneers who brought CCFL and LED lighting to the PC industry, and one of the first to add color and to introduce clarity (transparency) materials to the beige dominated PC world.Our innovation extends to our other related 3C product design.
We pride ourselves by participating the changes for the last decade by providing the latest design and highest quality products for people who view their PC as a design piece instead of homogeneous electronic device.
Life moves in amazing ways. So do computers. We hope our fantasy and persistent pursuit of the dream of design-piece PC could redefine how computer would look like now and in the days to come.
Logisys is a well known manufacturer of everything from cases, power supplies, input devices, accessories, to fans, cathodes, and other devices. Most of these products are aimed to fulfill the promise of quality as well as style. Today we will be taking a look at the Ultra Slim Soft Touch Multimedia Keyboard from Logisys, which offers Simplicity, Elegance and a Contemporary Style. It is only offered in the two-tone black finish that we will be reviewing today.
Specifications
Ultra Slim design
Two-tone black matte/glossy finish
Soft Touch multimedia/internet hot keys
Integrated extra size palm rest
Extra long seven foot cord
USB/PS2 Connector
Weight - 850g
Size - 495mm x 215mm x 30mm (LxWxH)
Packaging & Contents
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch01_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch01.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch02_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch02.jpg)
Logisys ships the Ultra Slim Soft Touch keyboard in a full color cardboard box that is colorful enough to stand out on a shelf with other keyboards. On the front of the box we are treated with a large image of the product inside, a large Logisys Computer company logo, as well as a couple of features and highlights offered with the keyboard. On the back of the box we find a chart with mechanical data, interface information, and an operating system compatibility list. You will have no compatibility issues unless you are running a version of Windows prior to Windows 98.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch03_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch03.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch04_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch04.jpg)
Once opened, we find the keyboard protected in plastic only, as there does not seem to be any room for additional protection. Also included in the box are a driver CD and a USB to PS2 adapter for those who do not have an available USB port.
[page=A Closer Look]
A Closer Look
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch05_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch05.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch06_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch06.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch07_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch07.jpg)
Once out of the box we find that the keyboard has a very streamlined look and feel to it. It is definitely "Ultra Slim" and the two-tone black finish is excellent. The layout of the keys is pretty standard, with the exception of the large Enter key, moving the Backslash key to the left. Right away I also noticed how much the keys resemble that of those found on most notebooks. On the left end we can see the hot keys that are internet related. These keys are hard coded for the Home, Back, Forward, Email, and Favorites functions. Beneath there is a hot key for the Search function within the Windows operating system. On the right end at the top, we can find hot keys for the Sleep, My Computer, and Calculator functions. To the right, we can find hot keys for Media Player functions. There is a hot key to launch Windows Media Player, Back Skip, Forward Skip, Play, Mute, and Stop functions. Beneath those we can see the Media Wheel for volume adjustment, and three LEDs for Num Lock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock indication.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch08_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch08.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch09_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch09.jpg)
On the underside of the keyboard we find the rubber feet towards the front used to increase friction and keep the keyboard stationary during intense usage. To the rear we find the risers that simply snap into the open or closed position.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch10_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch10.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch11_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch11.jpg)
The phrase "Ultra Slim" is not an understatement. Check out the cross section view alongside a U.S. dime as a reference. The extremely low profile of the entire keyboard is amazing. Even with the risers in the open position we can still see that the keyboard can provide a comfortable and natural angle for the user.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch13_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch13.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch14_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch14.jpg)
Here are some additional shots to give you a better idea of the size of this keyboard. It is plain to see the similarities between the keys of the Ultra Slim and those of the Acer notebook. In the other picture we can see how the standard multimedia keyboard from Micro completely dwarfs the Ultra Slim. However, the Ultra Slim looks more natural and less clumsy than the giant.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch12_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch12.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch15_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch15.jpg)
Here we can see the USB to PS2 adapter as well as the USB connection from the keyboard itself. Once connected to the computer, we find that the LEDs on the keyboard are very bright. That gave me an impression that they might become a distraction during usage.
[Page=Software & Performance]
Software
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/install01_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/install01.jpg)
The installation setup screen is very basic, notifying us that we will be installing the Multimedia Keyboard Driver 1.0.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/install02_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/install02.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/install03_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/install03.jpg)
On the next screen we are given the option of where we want to install the driver software. The installation took a mere two seconds, and on the last screen we are given the option to reboot now or later. It really was as easy as that. I will also note here that it made no difference whether you install the driver from the CD, or use the driver that Windows XP loads as functionality was equal either route.
Performance
Using the keyboard in Windows for office software and day to day tasking was an enjoyable experience. It was also a quiet one, thanks to the low profile keys and the fact that they do not require much pressure. The keystrokes are soft yet crisp. Anyone who likes the way most notebooks feel will be right at home with this keyboard. The hot keys do their job fine, and will serve your default internet and media programs well. My impression is that this keyboard would make anyone happy in an office environment.
The gaming experience with the Ultra Slim was comparable to that of the office usage. Since the key layout is pretty standard, I did not have any problems while playing Guild Wars, Team Fortress 2, and the Frontlines: Fuel of War Beta. Not once did I trail off and poke any of the hotkeys, so I think the overall layout of the keyboard is good. I also found that the bright blue LEDs did not distract me like I had anticipated due to their placement on the palm rest. The palm rest made all of the difference as it kept my wrist in a comfortable position while using the keyboard for gaming.
[page=Value & Conclusion]
Value and Conclusion
<table width="100%" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="result">
<tr><th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/dollar.gif</th>
<td>
The Logisys Ultra Slim Soft Touch Keyboard sells for around $24.99.
</td>
</tr><tr>
<th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/thumbup.gif</th>
<td>
Ultra Slim and comfortable
Very compact and sturdy for its size
Standard key layout
Basic internet and multimedia functions
Good price
Looks great on the desk
Driver CD not needed in Windows XP
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/thumbdown.gif</th>
<td>
No programmable keys
Lack of useful software
</td></tr>
<tr><th>8.5</th>
<td>
The Logisys Ultra Slim Soft Touch Keyboard is a nice upgrade from a standard keyboard. It has a great look and feel to it. The low profile keys and slim design prove to be very comfortable, and the palm rest does a nice job of reducing wrist strain. The internet and multimedia keys are useful for office and day to day applications, while staying out of the way during gaming sessions. The overall layout of the keyboard is excellent and thought out really well.<br />
<br />
It is a step in a different direction for Logisys, as most of their other keyboard offerings are decked out with lighting and cater more towards the modding crowd. It is a slight letdown that there is no ability to customize the additional keys to fit a user's specific needs.<br />
<br />
However, those looking for an inexpensive, stylish, and comfortable upgrade to their basic keyboard will find what they are looking for in the Ultra Slim Soft Touch from Logisys Computer Inc.
</td></tr>
<tr><th></th><td>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/recommended.gif</td></tr>
</table>
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/logisyslogo.jpg
I would like to thank Logisys Computer Inc. (http://www.logisyscomputer.com) for supplying the review sample.
Here is what Logisys Computer Inc. (http://www.logisyscomputer.com) has to say about their Vision and History according to their "About Us" web page:
Not long ago a computer was not more than a programmed typewriter and calculator, its memory size was less than what we have in most of our cell phones. For quite a long period of time, the computers, consumer electronics and communications stayed at their own track, without any crossing and overlapping. It is not until recent years the 3C brothers started to merge and integrate and that fundamentally and profoundly changed the world we live in.
We are one of the pioneers who brought CCFL and LED lighting to the PC industry, and one of the first to add color and to introduce clarity (transparency) materials to the beige dominated PC world.Our innovation extends to our other related 3C product design.
We pride ourselves by participating the changes for the last decade by providing the latest design and highest quality products for people who view their PC as a design piece instead of homogeneous electronic device.
Life moves in amazing ways. So do computers. We hope our fantasy and persistent pursuit of the dream of design-piece PC could redefine how computer would look like now and in the days to come.
Logisys is a well known manufacturer of everything from cases, power supplies, input devices, accessories, to fans, cathodes, and other devices. Most of these products are aimed to fulfill the promise of quality as well as style. Today we will be taking a look at the Ultra Slim Soft Touch Multimedia Keyboard from Logisys, which offers Simplicity, Elegance and a Contemporary Style. It is only offered in the two-tone black finish that we will be reviewing today.
Specifications
Ultra Slim design
Two-tone black matte/glossy finish
Soft Touch multimedia/internet hot keys
Integrated extra size palm rest
Extra long seven foot cord
USB/PS2 Connector
Weight - 850g
Size - 495mm x 215mm x 30mm (LxWxH)
Packaging & Contents
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch01_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch01.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch02_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch02.jpg)
Logisys ships the Ultra Slim Soft Touch keyboard in a full color cardboard box that is colorful enough to stand out on a shelf with other keyboards. On the front of the box we are treated with a large image of the product inside, a large Logisys Computer company logo, as well as a couple of features and highlights offered with the keyboard. On the back of the box we find a chart with mechanical data, interface information, and an operating system compatibility list. You will have no compatibility issues unless you are running a version of Windows prior to Windows 98.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch03_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch03.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch04_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch04.jpg)
Once opened, we find the keyboard protected in plastic only, as there does not seem to be any room for additional protection. Also included in the box are a driver CD and a USB to PS2 adapter for those who do not have an available USB port.
[page=A Closer Look]
A Closer Look
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch05_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch05.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch06_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch06.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch07_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch07.jpg)
Once out of the box we find that the keyboard has a very streamlined look and feel to it. It is definitely "Ultra Slim" and the two-tone black finish is excellent. The layout of the keys is pretty standard, with the exception of the large Enter key, moving the Backslash key to the left. Right away I also noticed how much the keys resemble that of those found on most notebooks. On the left end we can see the hot keys that are internet related. These keys are hard coded for the Home, Back, Forward, Email, and Favorites functions. Beneath there is a hot key for the Search function within the Windows operating system. On the right end at the top, we can find hot keys for the Sleep, My Computer, and Calculator functions. To the right, we can find hot keys for Media Player functions. There is a hot key to launch Windows Media Player, Back Skip, Forward Skip, Play, Mute, and Stop functions. Beneath those we can see the Media Wheel for volume adjustment, and three LEDs for Num Lock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock indication.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch08_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch08.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch09_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch09.jpg)
On the underside of the keyboard we find the rubber feet towards the front used to increase friction and keep the keyboard stationary during intense usage. To the rear we find the risers that simply snap into the open or closed position.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch10_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch10.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch11_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch11.jpg)
The phrase "Ultra Slim" is not an understatement. Check out the cross section view alongside a U.S. dime as a reference. The extremely low profile of the entire keyboard is amazing. Even with the risers in the open position we can still see that the keyboard can provide a comfortable and natural angle for the user.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch13_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch13.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch14_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch14.jpg)
Here are some additional shots to give you a better idea of the size of this keyboard. It is plain to see the similarities between the keys of the Ultra Slim and those of the Acer notebook. In the other picture we can see how the standard multimedia keyboard from Micro completely dwarfs the Ultra Slim. However, the Ultra Slim looks more natural and less clumsy than the giant.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch12_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch12.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch15_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/slimtouch15.jpg)
Here we can see the USB to PS2 adapter as well as the USB connection from the keyboard itself. Once connected to the computer, we find that the LEDs on the keyboard are very bright. That gave me an impression that they might become a distraction during usage.
[Page=Software & Performance]
Software
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/install01_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/install01.jpg)
The installation setup screen is very basic, notifying us that we will be installing the Multimedia Keyboard Driver 1.0.
http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/install02_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/install02.jpg) http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/install03_sm.jpg (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Logisys/Ultra_Slim_Keyboard/images/install03.jpg)
On the next screen we are given the option of where we want to install the driver software. The installation took a mere two seconds, and on the last screen we are given the option to reboot now or later. It really was as easy as that. I will also note here that it made no difference whether you install the driver from the CD, or use the driver that Windows XP loads as functionality was equal either route.
Performance
Using the keyboard in Windows for office software and day to day tasking was an enjoyable experience. It was also a quiet one, thanks to the low profile keys and the fact that they do not require much pressure. The keystrokes are soft yet crisp. Anyone who likes the way most notebooks feel will be right at home with this keyboard. The hot keys do their job fine, and will serve your default internet and media programs well. My impression is that this keyboard would make anyone happy in an office environment.
The gaming experience with the Ultra Slim was comparable to that of the office usage. Since the key layout is pretty standard, I did not have any problems while playing Guild Wars, Team Fortress 2, and the Frontlines: Fuel of War Beta. Not once did I trail off and poke any of the hotkeys, so I think the overall layout of the keyboard is good. I also found that the bright blue LEDs did not distract me like I had anticipated due to their placement on the palm rest. The palm rest made all of the difference as it kept my wrist in a comfortable position while using the keyboard for gaming.
[page=Value & Conclusion]
Value and Conclusion
<table width="100%" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" id="result">
<tr><th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/dollar.gif</th>
<td>
The Logisys Ultra Slim Soft Touch Keyboard sells for around $24.99.
</td>
</tr><tr>
<th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/thumbup.gif</th>
<td>
Ultra Slim and comfortable
Very compact and sturdy for its size
Standard key layout
Basic internet and multimedia functions
Good price
Looks great on the desk
Driver CD not needed in Windows XP
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/thumbdown.gif</th>
<td>
No programmable keys
Lack of useful software
</td></tr>
<tr><th>8.5</th>
<td>
The Logisys Ultra Slim Soft Touch Keyboard is a nice upgrade from a standard keyboard. It has a great look and feel to it. The low profile keys and slim design prove to be very comfortable, and the palm rest does a nice job of reducing wrist strain. The internet and multimedia keys are useful for office and day to day applications, while staying out of the way during gaming sessions. The overall layout of the keyboard is excellent and thought out really well.<br />
<br />
It is a step in a different direction for Logisys, as most of their other keyboard offerings are decked out with lighting and cater more towards the modding crowd. It is a slight letdown that there is no ability to customize the additional keys to fit a user's specific needs.<br />
<br />
However, those looking for an inexpensive, stylish, and comfortable upgrade to their basic keyboard will find what they are looking for in the Ultra Slim Soft Touch from Logisys Computer Inc.
</td></tr>
<tr><th></th><td>http://www.techpowerup.com/images/recommended.gif</td></tr>
</table>