Kogan Wireless Mini Keyboard/Trackpad($39)
Written by Phillip Pirikahu
I really needed a way to control my newly built HTPC, and was browsing through Kogans devices and came across a neat little keyboard/mousepad in one. Today that Kogan Wireless Mini Keyboard arrived, and boy was I excited to finally have a way to control my HTPC from a distance.
And here it is, the hybrid that made it all easier for me. Meet the Kogan wireless keyboard/trackpad.
This little device came with a few more features than I first expected:
- A well-placed left click button on the bottom left of the keyboard
- Backlit keys at the push of a button
- A TORCH! (So handy!)
- Rechargeable
- Function keys at the top of the device
- Support for Android devices AND desktop computers
In the picture above, I ejected the USB communicator for the remote a little to show where it is located on the device, while holding it you won't even notice it. The size is perfect and fits and works well in both hands.
The buttons feel nice when pushing them but it'll take a little getting used to at first, but should be fine after about 5-10 uses.
This is the system I tested with the remote, my custom built HTPC running Windows 8 Developer Preview (for the time being for testing)
It worked immediately, as soon as I plugged it in. The USB communicator looked very clean with the case and definitely didn't impact the overall look.
The backlight from the keyboard was nice and bright, but not so bright that it would blind you momentarily if you were in the dark. It can also be turned on and off at the push of a button.
I wish I could report on battery life, but as of yet (3 hours later) it still hasn't died after turning it on for the first time.
To recharge the device however, simply plug it in to a USB port on your computer. It's that easy.
Now for the verdict..
I really like this device, it's feature-packed, looks nice and extremely cheap! ($39 I mean c'mon that's a bargain). It feels good in the hands, works with Android devices with a USB port (Can't figure out how to make it work without the USB communicator) and works with my computers as soon as I plug it in.
I give this one a 9/10 for being a very solid and nice looking/feeling device, it's price is unbeatable.
If your looking for a HTPC remote or a controller for a laptop or tablet for doing presentations this is the device for you.
