Logitech's Netplay Controller Versus Sony's PS2 USB Keyboard

There are many gamers out there on the Playstation 2 that still use the generic Sony PS2 Keyboard. You know, the generic black keyboard with white letters and numbers? I've had my fair share of troubles with the Sony PS2 Keyboard, and I've gone through a few as well. However, one day I was searching for an alternative USB keyboard and stumbled upon the Logitech Netplay Controller. The title can be deceiving, but then you see the pictures and the item looks wonderful.

Keyboards, as I said before, are used for many games, and are plugged in through the front USB ports of the Playstation 2. Games such as any Socom: U.S. Navy Seals game, Final Fantasy XI, Everquest Online, Unreal Tournament, Amplitude, any online Tony Hawk Pro Skater games, and many more, use the USB keyboard so gamers can communicate when headset communication is not available.

The Logitech Netplay Controller is not only a keyboard, but it is a controller as well. The Logitech Netplay Controller basically looks like a somewhat smaller keyboard with handles on the sides. On each handle there are large, blue, transparent analog sticks. Located on the left side is a unique looking directional pad, as well as a "mode" and "vibration" button. The vibration button allows regular vibration as if it were a regular Sony Playstation 2 controller. On the right handle there is the "Start" and "Select" buttons, which are basically self-explanatory. Also, there are the regular 'shape' buttons from the Sony Playstation 2 controller: the triangle, the square, the X, and the circle. The analog sticks on either side do have the L3/R3 button functions, meaning you can press them inward lightly to initiate a specific action, which varies depending on the game you're playing. On the back of the handles, at the top, there are the L1, L2, R1, and R2 buttons, which are normally located at the top of a Playstation 2 controller.

There are some things that are better on the Sony PS2 Keyboard that are better than the Logitech Netplay Controller. For example, the Sony PS2 Keyboard has normal sized keys, whereas Logitech's keyboard keys are much smaller, making typing strenuous at times. Also, the Sony Playstation 2 USB Keyboard is less bulky compared to the Logitech Netplay Controller.

The Logitech Netplay Controller is more durable, and is also a two-in-one deal, as it serves as both a controller and a keyboard. In doing this, gameplay is much easier if the keyboard is laid on a surface, rather than being held in the air. You also have the option of using a regular Playstation 2 controller and the Logitech Netplay Controller at the same time. In order to use the Logitech Netplay Controller, you must plug it into both the Playstation 2's USB port and the controller port. There are wires coming from the controller allowing you to do so. The con to this is the amount of wires laying around, as it can get messy with all the wires merely laying around. To ensure that this doesn't happen, you can clean up your controller and/or keyboard after their use. You can also refrain from moving around too much from spot to spot on your bed or chair, depending on where you sit.

The keyboard portion of the Logitech Netplay Controller is detachable, meaning it can come off of it's placeholder on the controller itself.

The Logitech Netplay Controller's body sits comfortably in the lap of the player, unlike the Sony Playstation 2 USB Keyboard. This is due to the curves on the back of the Logitech controller.

To ensure it's working capabilities and reliability, the Logitech Netplay Controller is an officially licensed product from Sony themselves. If Sony themselves suggests it, it must be good, right?

If you're looking for a precise keyboard, with also features of a controller, look no further than the Logitech Netplay Controller. Sure, the buttons on the keyboard are somewhat smaller, but that is very easy to adapt to with some practice. Depending on where you look, the Logitech Netplay Controller may be a bit cheaper as well.

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