The Logitech Illuminated Living-Room Keyboard K830

A living room keyboard that can handle more than one role

The Logitech Illuminated Living Room Keyboard K830

On the plus side, a great feeling keyboard with an excellent touch pad that makes typing pleasant.

On the downside, a bit high on price points and no Bluetooth

Recommend: Yes, just make sure you don’t miss the numeric pad  

Rating: 7 Desktops out of 10    

   

                Most of us settle for the keyboards that accompany our computers.   By and large, they are acceptable, for the most part.  After experiencing one that is higher end, you quickly see that they differ, widely.

                Designed for home entertainment systems where interaction with a computer is part of the deal, the Logitech Illuminated Living Room Keyboard K830 easily occupies the role for which it has been cast. 

                Slightly small than your average keyboard, it loses the numeric pad. However, it is not cramped or uncomfortable to handle.   Where this keyboard shines is the inclusion of a touch pad, a very accomplished one. 

                Not often seen, the inclusion of this feature allows access to the touch screen features of Windows 8 without getting your screen dirty.  It is one of those features you appreciate after you have had it.  Theoretically, you could use it to interact with your computer, but that may not be right for most of us, particularly designers who need pointing devices.

Presentation is everything.  Logitech actually has the keyboard wrapped in tissue paper. A touch that indicates this is a deluxe device.

                Usb devices can be difficult to pair up, not so with the K830.  This one peripheral is literally plug and play simplicity at its smoothest.   Although not required, Logitech provides gratis software to obtain granular control of some features.   Most users may not have need for it, which is nice.

                As a usb powered rechargeable, the age old question of charging time and battery life are answered here.  I powered up the keyboard and managed to see an insane amount of use from one charge.  To assist in energy conservation, there is a discreetly placed on and off switch.  

                In a micro miniaturization move, the usb receiver for this device is small.  It may challenge larger hands to even handle it.   Whatever you do, do not lose this apparatus.  The K830 does not have Bluetooth capability, a bit of a draw back.  Big point, keep all cables and the easy to lose usb receiver in mind.

The Keyboard as you will find it out of the wrapping paper.

                A question that comes up, and it is certainly a logical one, is how bright are the keys?  In my very informal pitch black room setting, you can see my video of it in action, the keys were as bright as stars.  If you like more hands on control, you can manually set them if you are not happy with what the keyboard does on its own.   There are three settings for the keyboard, but the automatic setting does a very good job of calculating what is best.

                If one has an entertainment system that requires a  keyboard, the K830 fits the bill.   If you are a home user who wants wireless connectivity, a light weight key pad and extremely long battery life, this offering from Logitech makes sense. 

The clean interface of the optional software.  It features the new flat design that is become the signature of  2015 software.

                Designated a home entertainment system device, there is a lot here to like for the home user, power business user, content creator or aspiring author.  If you type a great deal, the comfort factor does justify the cost.

                The only down side to an otherwise great keyboard is the price.  At  $ 99.99, this is not a bargain basement peripheral.   On the flip side, if comfort, wireless connectivity and wildly long batter life matter, this could be a reasonable price to pay.  I have seen prices in the vicinity of $ 50 something, which makes this a really accessible keyboard.

Check out my video link to see the opening and see how it performs in the dark.

                For me, the K830’s real strengths are found in a good touch pad, bright illumination, comfort, solid good looks and a long last rechargeable battery.   For someone who writes often, this keyboard managed to make typing pleasant.   If you can afford it, this is an excellent choice for the home office,  an artist, designer or anyone else.  If you don’t mind the loss of a numeric pad, this is a winner. 

System Requirements

• Windows® 7, Windows 8 or later
• Internet connection (for software download)

Warranty Information

1-Year Limited Hardware Warranty

Package Contents

• Illuminated Living-Room Keyboard
• Unifying receiver
• USB Recharge Cable
• USB Range extender
• User documentation

Part Number

• PN 920-006081

Dimensions

Width:

367 mm (or 14.4 inches)

Height:

125.3 mm (or 4.9 inches)

Depth:

16.5 mm (or 0.65 inches)

Touchpad size:

80 x 52 mm (or 3.1 x 2.0 inches)

Weight:

495 g (or 17.5 oz)