Microsoft Releases New Mouse & Keyboard Bundles

[Jason Dunn]

<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.pcworld.com/news/article/0,aid,117732,tk,dn091004X,00.asp' target='_blank'>http://www.pcworld.com/news/article/0,aid,117732,tk,dn091004X,00.asp</a><br /><br /></div><i>"Microsoft is introducing a new line of keyboards and mice this week, including some with fingerprint readers that lets users scan a finger instead of having to enter a log-in name and password when accessing online services or logging on to the PC. A keyboard, mouse, and a stand-alone fingerprint reader were added to Microsoft's hardware lineup. The products are aimed at consumers and are meant for convenience use only. Strong, or hard-to-guess passwords are still recommended for sensitive data such as financial information or for access to corporate networks, Microsoft says."</i><br /><br />Microsoft has <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/default.mspx">unveiled some new hardware</a>, and it boasts new featured such as a fingerprint scanner. I like the look of the <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/mouseandkeyboard/productdetails.aspx?pid=028">Wireless Optical Desktop Comfort Edition</a>, but why don't they have a Bluetooth version? Assuming their Bluetooth stack has been improved and includes more profiles. What I'd really like to have is a wireless BT headset for VOIP....

[Zack Mahdavi]

I want a bluetooth set to eliminate the extra receiver. I use my Apple Bluetooth Keyboard with my PC, and it works really well, but I miss the fact that I can't use the volume buttons with my PC.

I'd go for the Logitech bluetooth set, but it's way too expensive. :?

[sundown]

I like some of the new features but why oh why are they making it hard to get any info about these keyboards? I want to see a larger pic of the "comfort edition" ergonomic keyboard. I clicked through about 10 pages to get to their page that talks about it and there is no larger pic for viewing. Drives me nuts when companies make it hard to want to buy their products. &lt;/rant>

[Bob12]

Check CompUSA Product Number 313553

I have the set and am well pleased with it. I would prefer a split and tilt like the MS ergonomic keyboards but this model is certainly far better for me than a standard straight keyboard.

[Jason Dunn]

I like some of the new features but why oh why are they making it hard to get any info about these keyboards? I want to see a larger pic of the "comfort edition" ergonomic keyboard. I clicked through about 10 pages to get to their page that talks about it and there is no larger pic for viewing. Drives me nuts when companies make it hard to want to buy their products. &lt;/rant>

I hear ya - they make it SO difficult to just see the damn products! They spend a lot of effort talking about all the features, but not a lot of effort actually showing you the product. Microsoft has trouble selling things themselves - they're used to having the channel (stores) sell and market their products.

[Zack Mahdavi]

I like some of the new features but why oh why are they making it hard to get any info about these keyboards? I want to see a larger pic of the "comfort edition" ergonomic keyboard.

I completely agree. Many companies (not just Microsoft) do the same thing. They talk and talk about the product, but they don't provide enough product views except for a small little image.

I find browsing for products at sites like Newegg.com much easier. Their pictures are very detailed and big.... and that's the way I like it!

[makicr]

I like the "Tilt Wheel Technology" on the mouse. Being able to scroll left/right with the wheel (in addition to the standard up/down) could come in handy when editing photos or video footage.

[ctmagnus]

The tilt wheel is sweet! :D