Kensington SlimType Keyboard

Gadgeteer Hands On Review by Julie

May 12, 2005

Product Requirements:
Device:
PC or compatible computer with USB port

Your main interface to your desktop computer is typically through a mouse and a keyboard. Some people don't care about looks, and only care about functionality. I'm not one of those people, I want both! When I recently remodeled my computer room, I realized just how crummy my old white Microsoft Internet keyboard looked next to my black Samsung SyncMaster 710n LCD and Logitech MX Laser wireless mouse. So, I started looking for a black keyboard. But, I didn't want just any old keyboard, I wanted something Gadgeteer worthy. Most of the keyboards that I found in my searches were either too big or too ugly. But then I found the Kensington SlimType Keyboard.

The SlimType keyboard is everything that my old Microsoft keyboard isn't. It's smaller, thinner, quieter, and definitely higher on the Gadgeteer scale. Available in black for the PC and what appears to be clear for the Mac, this USB keyboard is 16.5 x 6.25 x 1.25in when propped up on its fold out legs.

The keys on this input device use scissor-switch technology that is typically found in laptop keyboards. As such, the keys on the SlimType have a low profile and a shallow travel distance when you press them. The action is crisp comfortable. I really like the fact that typing doesn't produce hellish clickity clackity noise that can be heard throughout the house. Yes, there is some noise while typing, but it's minimal and not disruptive to those around you.

This keyboard reminds me very much of the original ThinkOutside's folding keyboards in key size, and action. The SlimType has the familiar QWERTY layout with a separate number pad and separate set of 4 arrow keys. A set of 8 chrome buttons run along the top of the keyboard that control media playback. There is a button for Play/Pause, Next Track, Prev Track, Volume Down, Volume Up, Mute, Calculator and Sleep. No drivers are required for this keyboard, plugging it into a free USB port enabled the special button functions automatically. I tested them with both iTunes and Windows Media Player. All the functions worked fine except in iTunes the Play/Pause feature would not resume paused video playback for some reason. The Sleep button puts your PC in Stand-by mode. Pressing any key while in this mode will bring your computer back to life.

I've been using this keyboard exclusively for the past 3 weeks with my main PC (a home built Athlon). I like the small footprint that it requires on my desktop and its cool style. Of course, typing is the main objective here, and so far I have no gripes to speak of. Although this is a small keyboard, I have not found that my hands/fingers feel cramped while typing. My hands are not small, so even people with large hands should be able to comfortably type with this peripheral.

My only gripe, and yes, I do have at least one, is that the SlimType does not have any additional USB ports built into it. I have grown used to the 2 built into my Microsoft keyboard, and really missing having them to use for thumbdrives and other USB devices. That said, so far I am very happy with this keyboard and will allow it to live on my desk until I find a worthy replacement.

 

Price: $29.99

Pros:
Small footprint
Multimedia function keys
Quiet typing

Cons:
No additional USB ports