Digital Trends

Logitech Bluetooth Cordless MX Duo

July 14th, 2004 | by Nino Marchetti

Testing and Performance

Overall, the functionality and versatility of the Cordless Desktop MX for Bluetooth was extremely impressive. The Bluetooth technology was the highlight, with the wireless range being an as-advertised 30 feet. There was, however, a noticeable drop-off in connectivity by the time the maximum distance was reached.

The keyboard's navigation wheel makes scrolling through long documents and Web pages a snap. The eight silver buttons along the top, offering tasks from printing to calling up various windows and Web sites, work as advertised. Also quite useful are the media buttons, which can call up Microsoft Windows Media Player and control the volume, navigate through media and pause, stop or play files. Unfortunately, those that prefer Winamp, Foobar or other media players won't be able to use those controls — an oversight that many users have requested Logitech to address.
 
Typing appears real time on the screen, keeping easily in sync with speed typing. The buttons feel solid, and the overall construction of the keyboard looks and feels to be very durable.

With regards to the mouse, it also works as advertised. It is both comfortable and feature-packed. The scroll wheel has a good feel to it as do the two Web navigation buttons on the left side. Most impressive however is the application navigation button, which, when pressed, pops up a window of all open applications. This feature makes it very easy to scroll through the choices and pick the needed application with a single click. 

Ergonomically, both the keyboard and the mouse feel comfortable. For those desiring a palm rest for the keyboard, an optional add-on rest is included in the package and it easily snaps right in. As is the case with most computer mice, this is designed specifically for a right-handed user. Southpaws may find it uncomfortable and hard to use. For righties, it offers a natural contour to match a hand, with a slight groove on the left side for the thumb to rest in.

Conclusion

With cutting edge technology and a sleek, sexy look, the Cordless Desktop MX for Bluetooth is sure to please many users. The excellent overall functionality, coupled with the ergonomic considerations, make it a good choice for many users — providing they are right-handed and use Windows 2000 or XP.

Those looking for the next generation in wireless keyboard/mouse combos, as well as those who want freedom from wires, will be well-suited to consider this Logitech standout.