Logitech diNovo Keyboard for Notebooks review: Logitech diNovo Keyboard for Notebooks

The Logitech diNovo Keyboard for Notebooks connects to your computer through USB 2.0, and its 2.4GHz wireless receiver can be used with any PC desktop or notebook with satisfactory results. Aside from a different set of shortcut keys across the top, the design of the diNovo Keyboard for Notebooks is almost identical to the Mac Edition, and unfortunately costs the same. Logitech just can't justify charging $100 for a keyboard that lacks ergonomics, USB ports, and illuminated keys. We'd rather save up $20 and then reach for the Logitech Illuminated keyboard instead.

7.0

Logitech diNovo Keyboard for Notebooks

The Good

Elegant finish; programmable shortcut keys; comfortable typing experience; easy plug-and-play design.

The Bad

Expensive; lacks illuminated keys and integrated USB ports; no control over wrist angle.

The Bottom Line

The Logitech diNovo for Notebooks looks sexy and is comfortable for typing, but it's a pricey upgrade for a keyboard that lacks integrated USB ports and backlit keys.

The slim design of the Logitech diNovo for Notebooks is similar to other Logitech peripherals; a glossy, piano black border wraps closely around the keys and a slick silver aluminum wrist rest is fixed to the bottom. Looking at the keyboard from the side, the slender profile almost appears to be carved out of a solid block of plastic, and the build quality is sturdy without feeling bulky. A covered slot on the back of the keyboard reveals the four AAA nonrechargeable alkaline batteries used to power the 2.4GHz wireless connection, and a simple mini USB dongle connects to your computer to establish the partnership. Logitech claims that the batteries will last a respectable three years of continuous usage, as long as you slide the power switch to the off position when you're not using it. The plug-and-play design of the keyboard makes it very easy to start using the diNovo, and no drivers are necessary to connect the two devices.

Unfortunately, if you rely on ergonomics to alleviate wrist pain, the diNovo for Notebooks won't be much help. The keyboard sits in a fixed position, meaning you can't adjust the angle of your wrist in relation to your typing surface. Nevertheless, typing on the keys feels natural as a result of Logitech's PerfectStroke key design that places each key exactly 3.2mm apart with uniform feedback across the entire surface of the keys. The end result creates a much more fluid typing experience that we actually prefer over the standard keyboards. Finally, the smooth wrist rest forms your hands into a comfortable position, but users currently experiencing wrist pain will want to seek out a more fine-tuned solution.

We wonder why Logitech calls this the "for Notebook" model. The only feature that makes this diNovo a laptop-specific keyboard is the CD eject button. We worry that shoppers hunting for a desktop keyboard replacement will be put off by the name, but the USB connection is compatible with both desktops and laptops, of course.

The actual keys are placed in their standard positions except for the key to the left of the right-mounted Ctrl button that serves as the Function button you need to access a series of shortcuts on the top row. These open your favorite applications and perform a variety of system functions, including increasing and decreasing volume, zooming in on the screen, and ejecting your CD/DVD drive. The keyboard also comes with the latest version of Logitech's SetPoint software that makes it easy to reassign the keys. Finally, the bottom row of keys, including the space bar, is raised slightly higher than the rest to alleviate stress on your thumbs.