February 2004 High-end Gaming PC Buyer's Guide - Page 6

Mouse: Logitech MX700 Cordless Mouse

Cost: $52
Months on list: 9
Price Change: -$1

While it may seem trivial compared to all the high priced components in this guide, it's important not to overlook the benefits of a high quality mouse. The Logitech MX700 is our top choice, and it features an 800dpi resolution sensor, and a data rate of 4.7 Megapixels per second, making the MX700 very accurate controller. This mouse does not rely on traditional battery life, and it comes with its own rechargeable battery and docking station, which great for those who don't want to worry about replacing batteries every few months. Above all, the Logitech MX700 Cordless Mouse is extremely comfortable to use, and is durable enough to last a long time.

Make sure you have a proper mousing surface with an optical mouse. These mice track best on darker non-solid color surfaces, especially checkered or rough patterns, and a black matte or wood grain finish is the best bet for an optical mouse.

Keyboard: Microsoft Natural Multimedia Keyboard OEM

Cost: $20
Months on list: 12
Price Change: $0

We have been using split design keyboards for years here at SE, and with good reason. This type of keyboard is more ergonomic and much more comfortable than standard models, and they allow your hand to rest in a natural position. The only viable choice in natural style keyboards has been Microsoft, and as a result we have continued to recommend their Natural Multimedia Keyboard. The OEM version can be found for about $20 online (with a similar hardware purchase) making it a great bargain.

Some would rather use a standard keyboard, and that is understandable. For this we recommend the Microsoft Multimedia keyboard. Microsoft keyboards are our favorites, and we have been using them for quite some time without incident.