Check out 5 keyboards that are essential to getting the most out of Microsoft's new operating system.
Did you remember to upgrade your keyboard when you switched to Windows 8? While Windows 8 boasts a new look and a touch-friendly interface, it's still for a PC, and a keyboard is an essential element in making the most of the new operating system. Whether it's on a desktop, laptop, or convertible tablet, you'll still need to type while browsing the Web or writing a tweet. And for longer typing sessions—such as when working in a document, spreadsheet, or writing an email—on screen keyboards are neither comfortable nor efficient.
Microsoft and Logitech have released a handful of keyboards designed with Windows 8 users in mind, offering enhanced portability, connectivity that won't gobble up your USB ports, and that feature distinctive Windows 8 functions baked right in. Using the new Start Screen is easy with a touch-enabled PC, but for many, a touch screen is an upgrade for another day, and having hotkey access to the Windows 8 Charms Bar functions will save a lot of time and frustration. Plus, in addition to Charms, there are still plenty of useful keyboard shortcuts in Windows 8 that are either carried over from previous operating systems or re-imagined for the new.
With Windows 8 tablets offering few USB ports for plugging in peripherals, many of the new devices offer wireless Bluetooth connectivity. This has the twofold benefit of both leaving your USB ports free while also staying more flexible for on the go use. With a Bluetooth keyboard, you can simply turn it off and stash it in a bag while continuing to use the tablet for convenient media consumption. As a result, Bluetooth keyboards are no longer relegated to use only with smartphones and Android tablets, as Windows PCs are becoming mobile devices in their own right.
Two of the keyboards on this list are unique for other reasons—instead of connecting to a standard PC via wireless connection or USB port, they are designed exclusively for use with Microsoft's Surface tablets, equipped with the Surface magnetic dock connection. They also do double duty as tablet covers, similar to Apple's Smart Cover for iPad, allowing tablet-style convenience while retaining PC-style capabilities.
If you are planning to update to Microsoft Windows 8, or have done so already, then you'd do well to check out these keyboards. They just make the transition that much easier.
FEATURED IN THIS ROUNDUP
Logitech K810 Bluetooth Illuminated Keyboard ($99.99; vote 4.5/5 read full reviewhttp://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2412647,00.asp)
Microsoft Sculpt Mobile Keyboard ($49.99; vote 3/5 read full review)
Microsoft Touch Cover (for Surface) ($119.99: 3.5/5 read full reviewhttp://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2412308,00.asp)
Microsoft Type Cover (for Surface) ($129.99; 3.5/5 read full review )
Microsoft Wedge Mobile Keyboard ($79.95; vote 3.5/5 read full review)
Source
Did you remember to upgrade your keyboard when you switched to Windows 8? While Windows 8 boasts a new look and a touch-friendly interface, it's still for a PC, and a keyboard is an essential element in making the most of the new operating system. Whether it's on a desktop, laptop, or convertible tablet, you'll still need to type while browsing the Web or writing a tweet. And for longer typing sessions—such as when working in a document, spreadsheet, or writing an email—on screen keyboards are neither comfortable nor efficient.
Microsoft and Logitech have released a handful of keyboards designed with Windows 8 users in mind, offering enhanced portability, connectivity that won't gobble up your USB ports, and that feature distinctive Windows 8 functions baked right in. Using the new Start Screen is easy with a touch-enabled PC, but for many, a touch screen is an upgrade for another day, and having hotkey access to the Windows 8 Charms Bar functions will save a lot of time and frustration. Plus, in addition to Charms, there are still plenty of useful keyboard shortcuts in Windows 8 that are either carried over from previous operating systems or re-imagined for the new.
With Windows 8 tablets offering few USB ports for plugging in peripherals, many of the new devices offer wireless Bluetooth connectivity. This has the twofold benefit of both leaving your USB ports free while also staying more flexible for on the go use. With a Bluetooth keyboard, you can simply turn it off and stash it in a bag while continuing to use the tablet for convenient media consumption. As a result, Bluetooth keyboards are no longer relegated to use only with smartphones and Android tablets, as Windows PCs are becoming mobile devices in their own right.
Two of the keyboards on this list are unique for other reasons—instead of connecting to a standard PC via wireless connection or USB port, they are designed exclusively for use with Microsoft's Surface tablets, equipped with the Surface magnetic dock connection. They also do double duty as tablet covers, similar to Apple's Smart Cover for iPad, allowing tablet-style convenience while retaining PC-style capabilities.
If you are planning to update to Microsoft Windows 8, or have done so already, then you'd do well to check out these keyboards. They just make the transition that much easier.
FEATURED IN THIS ROUNDUP
Logitech K810 Bluetooth Illuminated Keyboard ($99.99; vote 4.5/5 read full reviewhttp://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2412647,00.asp)
Microsoft Sculpt Mobile Keyboard ($49.99; vote 3/5 read full review)
Microsoft Touch Cover (for Surface) ($119.99: 3.5/5 read full reviewhttp://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2412308,00.asp)
Microsoft Type Cover (for Surface) ($129.99; 3.5/5 read full review )
Microsoft Wedge Mobile Keyboard ($79.95; vote 3.5/5 read full review)
Source
