Keyboard/mouse help

[Squidmaster]

My old keyboard and mouse are starting to act up a bit, so I plan to replace them. The question is, what setup works best for me?

I want to be able to use the keyboard and mouse both from my computer desk and from a couple other spots around 6 and 12 feet away. The keyboard must be ergonomic and I'd like a mouse with at least 5 buttons, including an easy to game-with scroll wheel.

The problem is that ergonomic wireless keyboard reviews tend to suggest that the wireless ranges are extremely, and I mean extremely, limited. It can also be hard to find a good mouse that meets my specifications.

That said, should I get wired versions of both of these components and pick up extension cables that will reach the distance I want, or can someone recommend a solid wireless choice? Is it wise to consider some sort of setup whereby I can swap between wired at the desk and a wireless setup farther away with a switch? The distance usage isn't nearly as exacting, so if this was a good option I could get a cheaper, non-ergonomic wireless setup to match whatever wired choices I may choose.

Thanks for your time.

 

[mpilchfamily]

A Bluetooth KB/Mouse combo will be your best bet for range. At best Bluetooth is suppose to offer a 30ft range. But most often you don't get past 9ft due to the limited size of the transmiter and reciever antena in the devices.

Your best bet will be to keep checking reviews on media center friendly KB/Mouse combos. Those will have the best range. Then when you find a few that meat your specs then go to a local retailer and gets your hands on a set that is on display to see if they are the right fit. People can throw recomendations at you all day but in the end you won't know till you get your hands on them.

 

[Squidmaster]

Is there such a thing as a bluetooth ergonomic setup? If so that does sound good.

The local Best Buys don't sell but a single ergonomic keyboard, which is a wired Microsoft option.

 

[Squidmaster]

I did some checking and the only bluetooth keyboard is a newer Microsoft model that gets horrid reviews and isn't very ergonomic.

 

[mpilchfamily]

Quite often you will have to settle for something that comes fairly close to what you want.

So what is more important to you, Wireless or ergonomic?

There are ways to compensate for range issues. Its just a matter of locating the receiver in the right place and having a long enough USB extention. Once you get past 9 ft you'll want a powered USB hub in there to help take the cable further.

 

[Squidmaster]

I'm discovering this. I picked a Logitech model that may fit the bill. Newegg is good with returns if not.