Xebec Tech HTPC Mini Bluetooth Keyboard Review

1. Introduction2. Packaging and Bundle3. Design and Ergonomics4. Performance and Conclusion5. View All Pages

In terms of usability there are several great features incorporated into this device. It has an incredible range, I was able to use this device at the furthest extreme of my house without any problems, although of course you are never really going to use it outside of the media room.

Another great feature are the hot keys, they are numerous and very useful in real world terms. Being able to mute sound with one press has always been a nice feature, but the Xebec Tech HTPC mini Bluetooth keyboard goes a step further with full play controls and volume control … all just one click away.

Unfortunately, as with the Xebec Tech HTPC Mini Keyboard the keys are just too close together and too small for it to be a serious keyboard. It's perfectly useable for surfing (typing something into Google for instance) but trying to write an email will become tiresome. I understand the desired market for the Xebec Tech HTPC Mini Bluetooth keyboard, but slightly more physical space would be beneficial to overall usability.

We were generally impressed with the track pad that is built into this device, even though it is small, it is both smooth and easy to use. The hot keys on the top of the keyboard are not brilliant, as they have a rubber coating which feels a bit tacky. The cursor keys are also stiff and aren't pleasant to use.

The rest of the design is simple and effective, but we feel there is still some room for improvement.

Xebec have crammed many features into a small design, but this product is primarily targeted at those who already have Bluetooth capabilities. After all it will become slightly expensive to also purchase a Bluetooth dongle at the same time.

If you desire an HTPC keyboard to actually type with on a regular basis then the full sized Xebec Tech iTouchpad Diamond Series will make for a better investment. That said, if you want a smaller remote for your media center and only want to type on it occasionally then this Mini Keyboard is fine.

We also need to praise the signal strength, as the usable range is fantastic.

The Xebec Tech HTPC Mini Bluetooth Keyboard costs only £30.98 at Overclockers UK. At such a competitive price point it really is hard to fault.

Pros

• Plenty of multi-media keys.
• Brilliantly compact.
• Track pad is very easy to use.
• Impressive range.
• great value for money.

Cons

• Keyboard is too small for serious use.
• Top set of buttons aren't that pleasant to use.

Kitguru says: An attractively priced and genuinely useful product from Xebec.

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