A Brief Overview of the Rii Mini Wireless Keyboard
It’s called a “mini” keyboard, and that’s exactly what the Rii is. Of course, I’m talking about the size compared with a typical PC keyboards – and it’s a great deal smaller. This mini keyboard weighs justa mere 3.2 oz., with dimensions of only 5.9×2.3×0.5 inches, while a standard PC keyboard is around 18in x 2in x 8in. It’s not just tiny but it’s also light, making it great for carrying around or for keeping it in a bag when you need it on the move. Since it’s small, this mini keyboard is handheld, but it provides for enjoyably easy typing.
This device is fantastic for using with your laptop computer or desktop computer, and also your PS3 or any other gaming system that supports this unit. Wires are redundant with this keyboard’s wireless capability, supplied by a Bluetooth USB receiver, so you can easily connect to other wireless electronic devices. This mini keyboard comes with the common QWERTY layout, as well as the convenience of a touchpad like those we know from laptops. In case the environment is not lit well, this mini keyboard comes equipped with 26 LED lights. The keyboard is provided standard with two rechargeable lithium ion batteries, which lets it operate.
As far as reviews go, there are many on Amazon, generally with 4 or 5 stars. But possibly this device’s first appearances are deceptive, as there are also several ratings falling between 1 and 3 stars. One commenter mentioned that the Rii connected to his Ubuntu system without any problems and worked reasonably well within a 30ft range, but any further than that and it ceased working well. But then, a range of 30 ft is reasonably good. Both playlist and volume button controls are present on the keyboard, which is terrific if the intended use is multimedia in character. This device also handily features other buttons, which although not often used, are nice when you do need them.
No device is perfect, and so there are several weaknesses that have to be noted. What is a bit of an inconvenience now and then is that the touchpad is not as accurate as we are accustomed to with typical laptop touchpads. Likewise, taps are not always picked up by the touchpad – but this can be avoided by rather using the left and right mouse buttons. It is also worth noting that the keys are directly underneath each other, and not 50% offset as we are accustomed to with the bigger keyboards. This isn’t a huge issue; however, it takes some getting accustomed to.
The Rii is a good device for those who are searching for a small keyboard that comes with a touch pad. There are a few of little drawbacks but the positives outweigh them, particularly at such a reasonable price.
Paul has been producing articles and reviews since 2005 and one of his favourite subjects is product review articles. Be sure to take at look at my latest web-site here, Fiskars Mower, http://www.best-lawn-mower.org