Microsoft has long been known for their Windows OS. These days, they have a hand in just about everything. Their line of desktop hardware continues a tradition of well thought out design and usefulness. Installation of the Microsoft Wireless Laser Desktop 6000 was as simple as plugging it into any computer. The provided software was not needed, but when installed, provided a tremendous amount of flexibility. The keyboard works well with its curved format. Switching from a standard keyboard to the Comfort Curve, to the MS4000, and back again was effortless. The awkward placement of the End key is a pain for anybody used to the standard layout of that cluster of keys. All function keys and media keys worked flawlessly the first time.

The Microsoft Wireless Laser Mouse 6000 was more of a disappointment. When using the mouse, gaming and non-gaming, the pointer seemed to respond faster in a vertical motion than it did on the horizontal motion. This makes it very irritating when you have to slow down you actions when moving vertically, rather than having a fluid motion in all directions. The left and right mouse buttons were acceptable at best. I would often find myself clicking two or three times, progressing in strength each time, until the button engaged. I would have liked to have seen Microsoft put the same quality of work into this mouse as they do almost all their other mice. Another irritating point is that the mouse has to be right next to the receiver. Using the mouse any further than six inches from the receiver resulted in signal dropouts, even though the keyboard still functioned properly. This is also exaggerated when a wireless device, such as a wireless router is placed near the wireless desktop set.

Overall this package with both the keyboard and the mouse is a Great Value! With the price point being only five dollars above that of just the mouse, the Microsoft Wireless Laser Desktop would be great for any office environment. This combo would not due for any true gamer, but does work fairly well in "non-wireless routed" areas. Just make sure not to rely on this for any upcoming LANs...

Final Remarks

Pros Cons Good Looks Comfortable Use Great transition from standard to ergonomic keyboarding Wireless signal dropouts with mouse Mouse sometimes non-responsive Odd vertical to horizontal adjustment with the mouse