Using the Bonus Numeric Keypad
It’s nice having a separate numeric keypad to go along with the keyboard, especially if you’re going to be entering several figures into a spreadsheet or you’re going to be making use of a calculator quite a bit. It’s just not the same as typing on the top row of your keyboard when it comes to just numbers. The same positive action of the keys follows through with this part of the duo.
There’s nothing really to write home about with this keypad, though it would have been nice if a single pairing process could be used to connect both this and the main keyboard to your computer at the same time. As it stands, you need to make two separate connections, though these can obviously be used simultaneously.
Final Thoughts
Clearly designed with the road warrior in mind, the Microsoft Bluetooth Mobile Keyboard 6000 has all sorts of redeeming qualities. The keyboard itself measures just 13.9-inches across and the super slim profile will make it an easy fit into your laptop bag. The Bluetooth connectivity is also very convenient, but some consumers may be led to believe that a USB Bluetooth adapter is included in the box (it’s not). If your laptop doesn’t have Bluetooth, you’ll obviously need to go pick an adapter up, which obviously adds to the somewhat expensive price tag.
The comfort curve design is quite comfortable, but I am saddened to see the lack of dedicated Home/End keys, as well as a lack of extra function keys. It is also quite unfortunate to see a lack of “legs” in the back of the keyboard to help provide a more ergonomic typing angle, as is the strange sleep-like mode that kicks in after a period of inactivity. I don’t get this with other Microsoft wireless combos so it must be a “Bluetooth Thing”.
I think that the Microsoft Bluetooth Mobile Keyboard 6000 is a good product and it can be a great accessory to pack on your travels, but it is also on the more expensive side with an MSRP of $89.95. You can find many other wireless combos (that include a wireless mouse) for a lot less money, even from Microsoft itself. However, as mentioned earlier, that “fruit” themed computer company does offer a Bluetooth keyboard of their own without a keypad or an ergonomic curve (and certainly no angle correcting feet) for an MSRP of $69.99 and a lesser 1 year warranty vs Microsoft’s 3 years.
With full Mac OSX support out of the box, perhaps that’s where the target market for this product truly lies.
Pros
- Very compact and slim design makes for easy travel
- Comfort curve design for keyboard
- Versatile Bluetooth connectivity
- Separate numeric keypad
Cons
- Pricey for “just a keyboard”
- No stands to “prop up” the keyboard to a more ergonomic typing angle
- Delayed connection after period of inactivity
- Lack of dedicated home/end keys, extra function keys
Overall Rating: 7.5/10.0
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