Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Review 2011

Some of the best wireless keyboard and mouse combos we've reviewed have stellar keyboards and mice in one package. This is an important characteristic because, although the freedom of a wireless keyboard and mouse combo means you aren't trapped at your desk, one of the downsides of purchasing a keyboard and mouse combo is that as a bundle you can't mix and match elements. You may like the keyboard in one but the mouse in another. Instead of worrying about mixing and matching, when searching for the perfect keyboard and mouse combo, look for key elements in both the keyboard and the mouse, and you won't be disappointed with either.

Features
The most important feature in a cordless keyboard and mouse combo is the wireless range it offers. Don't settle for anything less than 30 feet during your search. The whole point of wireless technology is to allow the user to have a mobile office, so those keyboards that boast a range of 10 to 15 feet simply don't cut it. For the keyboard, look for customizable hot keys, a battery level indicator and one-touch access controls. For the mouse, look for an on/off switch to save battery power or a rechargeable base.

Combos with the best keyboards, like Logitech's Cordless Desktop MX 5500, have a tiny LED screen that tells you the date and time, can play music and allow you to access the calculator right on the keyboard. For the mouse, features like a snap-on receiver and laser technology should come standard.

Design
Bulky, wired keyboards with accompanying wired mice are a thing of the past. Today, a keyboard with a thin, sleek exterior can add to your modern office décor. Spill resistance and soundless keys are also prevalent in the top keyboard and mouse combos. For those who work at a computer all day every day, an ergonomic design is crucial to maintain the health of your hands and wrists. Look for a wireless keyboard and mouse combo that has an adjustable keyboard with a palm rest and an ergonomic mouse with a comfortable fit. The best mice have a scroll wheel between the first and second buttons that allows for fast scrolling and click-to-click capabilities.

Help & Support
Plug-and-play functionality is a crucial feature to look for in a keyboard and mouse combo. Installing additional drivers or software is a step you don't have to deal with. The best keyboard and mouse combos don't require anything other than a usable USB port and an initial sync between the computer, keyboard and mouse. The top combos are also compatible with a range of operating systems, allowing the products to truly be portable from computer to computer.

Wireless technology means you can have a pristine computer setup with the least amount of cords possible. Gone are the days of being tethered to your computer by mouse and keyboard. Experience the freedom of wireless with one of the top wireless keyboard and mouse combos.