Microsoft Wireless Comfort Desktop 5000 Review: Keyboard and Mouse Combo

Another of Microsoft's innovative, customizable peripherals, the Microsoft Wireless Comfort Desktop 5000 is an $80 keyboard and mouse combination. The mouse, although rather simply designed, features Bluetrack technology to facilitate use on just about any surface. Long stints of typing are a breeze with the body friendly Microsoft Wireless Comfort Desktop 5000. The curvier design is something we'll have to acclimate to, but it has no effect on comfort or functionality.

The Microsoft Wireless Comfort Desktop 5000 keyboard has angled sides for relieving the stress on your wrists. Unfortunately, the comfort curve also affects the size and shape of the keys, leaving a few disproportionately large and resulting in some incorrect keystrokes as you get used to the new feel. However, we didn't find the ergonomic keyboard to be a large setback; we were back to our average speeds in a couple of hours.

Quiet typing is a plus with the Microsoft Wireless Comfort Desktop 5000. In addition, perforated rest pads are located just below your wrists to help you relax your hands as you type- without affecting your performance. The top row of buttons is the remote control strip for your living room PC, plus the media controls for favorite applications and settings. The Microsoft Wireless Comfort Desktop 5000 runs with two AA batteries, and has an indicator light to tell you when you need to change.

We have no complaints with the Microsoft Wireless Comfort Desktop 5000 mouse's functionality. We already mentioned Microsoft BlueTrack technology, which combines scrolling power with laser technology. Smooth tracking is achieved on any surface. Those who like to work on reflective or other nontraditional surfaces especially appreciate mice like these because their performance is not affected by such changes.

Like the Microsoft Wireless Comfort Desktop 5000 keyboard, the mouse is powered by two AA batteries. It's comfortable for both left- and right-hand use. However, it's too narrow, having no place for the pinky. Two main left/right buttons, a scroll dial, and a small button on each side of the mouse make up its ensemble. The included USB device controls both the mouse and the keyboard.

At $80, the Microsoft Wireless Comfort Desktop 5000 doesn't quite meet our expectations since the mouse is really not all that advanced. We might've liked to see speed adjustments for the scroll dial, and/or some rechargeable batteries and a charger. The keyboard is really the only part worth purchasing as an upgrade.

If you buy the Microsoft Wireless Comfort Desktop 5000, you'll definitely be impressed with the smoothness of the mouse and the ease of the keyboard, but don't expect all the latest features in the mouse.