When it comes to creating an HTPC component, some time and effort has to be put into the device to meet the needs of those who are most likely to use it. The nMedia folks have done a pretty decent job of making their wireless keyboard as user friendly as possible while still maintaining full functionality with modern computer systems.
For those wondering how the keys feel, they have crisp feel to them. It doesn’t take much pressure to get them operating properly, so the normal user will likely feel right at home. Those more accustomed to a professional keyboard will find it takes just a little getting used to, but I don’t think it will take much of an adjustment to get going at full speed.
One of the only complaints I have is the positioning of the keys. While they are full sized keys, they are closer together than on a standard keyboard. Some may enjoy this, but I found it a little awkward. It isn’t a huge drawback, but one that needs to be noted.
I did enjoy the addition of the function keys along the top of the keyboard. This makes things very easy when it comes time to make use of your common programs. Even if you like to hide those programs on another partition and not the factory default one, you can customize the keyboard to open them at a click.
Overall I liked the nMedia RF Wireless Keyboard. The keys don’t have that mushy feel that so many cheaper models do and the addition of mouse capabilities brings everything into one neat package. The RF wireless communication is listed to have a range of 50 feet (about 15.25 meters), so sitting across even a large room and using the keyboard won’t be a problem. I tested at approx 25 feet while sitting across my living area and had no problems at all with reliable output onto the screen. Since it is RF, however, you won’t have much luck around corners or in another room where there is a wall between you and the receiver. This shouldn’t be much of an issue, though, since typing in one room and displaying in another isn’t what this device was made for.
- Pros Wireless with 50 foot (15m) range Includes mouse capabilities Has both productivity and multimedia hotkeys Crisp feel to keys
- Cons Keys positioned very close together
Rating – 9 out of 10 and TweakTown's "MUST HAVE" Best Features Award!
