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

Mouse: Logitech MX700 Cordless Mouse

Cost: $49
Months on list: 10
Price Change: -$3

Considering our overall system budget, the act of choosing a mouse might seem trivial by comparison. However, as small as this selection may seem, it is very important to pick up a high quality mouse, especially for gaming. Currently, our favorite is the Logitech MX700 Cordless. This mouse has an 800dpi resolution sensor, and a data rate of 4.7 Megapixels per second, making the MX700 one very accurate controller. The MX700 Cordless has its own built-in battery and features an external docking station, where it can rest while not in use and ensure topped up battery life. Most importantly, the mouse is extremely comfortable, 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. Mouse pads from fUnc, Ratpadz, or Everglide are your best bet.

Keyboard: Microsoft Natural Multimedia Keyboard OEM

Cost: $20
Months on list: 13
Price Change: $0

We have been using split design keyboards for years here at SE, and with good reason. These types of keyboards are more ergonomic and much more comfortable than standard keyboards, as 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 been recommending the 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 you we recommend the Microsoft Multimedia keyboard. Microsoft keyboards are our favorites, and we have been using them for quite some time without incident.