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Microsoft has continuously produced an array of keyboards, most notable the natural keyboard line that has evolved from the following models; the natural keyboard elite (introduced in 1998), natural keyboard pro (introduced in 1999), natural multimedia keyboard (introduced in 2004), natural ergonomic keyboard 4000 (introduced in September 2005) and the natural ergonomic 7000 keyboard (introduced in June 2007). More focus is given to the Microsoft natural keyboard 4000, in this review. It’s built with a nicely laid out split keyboard keys, well fashioned on the ergonomic design keyboard approach with ample palm rest. The keyboard provides ease of use with amiable comfort for the palm and wrist as you type. The angle orientation and key bed simulation is well done to the latter. If you spend many hours typing on a daily routine, you should consider the Microsoft natural keyboard 4000, as it gives undisputed proper wrist alignment, keyboard design angle and a nicely padded wrist rest, hence offering a smooth rest as you type. Additionally, research shows that due to its design nature, the keyboard can reduce carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, that’s primarily caused by compression on the palms. Here is also a detailed review on Jelly Comb Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard The Microsoft natural keyboard 4000, comes with a USB adaptable interface and several hotkeys aimed at making the typing experience as friendly and easy as possible. Some of the hotkeys include; a zoom slider which allows you to zoom in and out on the screen by the touch of a button. It is well positioned on the middle of the keyboard. It also has five favorite keys that you can assign different shortcuts and roles to your liking. And in case you may forget what each button works on, you can press one of the buttons and receive a window pop up indicating their individual roles. One can reset the roles at will. In addition, the customizable keys (hot keys, favorite keys, function keys & zoom slider) can be used for common shortcuts. For instance to easily reach files, folders, open the calculator, control media playback, initiate or respond to email boxes and opening browser pages and webpages in the most convenient way possible. This drastically reduces the amount of moussing you have to do. The keyboard possesses an improved numbers pad that has additional keys with special signs such as equals to and more, making numeric symbols typing easier. The Microsoft natural keyboard 4000, just like any equipment isn’t without blemish. First, it’s very bulky and consumes a lot of desktop space. This can be a huge hindrance for smaller desks. Secondly, the keyboard isn’t compatible with PS/2 adapters. Thirdly, there are many places to buy the keyboard but some are considered quite pricey for such a keyboard. It’s going rate is $ 34.95 - $ 49.95. And lastly, most initial buyers of the first model of this keyboard indicate that the quality and design has shifted, reducing as compared to the pioneer models. But such a claim would hold water for the early uses unlike the recent ones. |