*Insert joke about the sun and moon here* (Saitek Eclipse II Keyboard)

Member Name: LRWade

Product:	Saitek Eclipse II Keyboard
Date:	12/08/09 (48 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: See review.

Disadvantages: Basic keys, perfect for me, might not apeal to all.

I bought the Eclipse II because my keyboard was way past its life expectancy. I am an aggressive typist and I use this keyboard for several hours a day. If you're not a similar user then that won't mean anything, but if you've ever broken a keyboard through use like I have then you'll appreciate me mentioning that!

*PHYSICAL*

The keyboard is solid and sturdy, it had a good weight so doesn't move around. It can be used flat or angled-there are two height adjusters, both of which are sturdy and haven't failed me yet. The wrist wrest (that's a tongue twister, try saying it!) has three settings also: snug against the keyboard, 1 cm gap and 2 cm gap. I use all of these because I like to change my typing position to prevent strain or cramp. So 3x3 = 9 different positions for comfort.
Under the keyboard are large rubber feet to prevent damage to your desk. These are very high quality and also help to stop movement.

*ILLUMINATION*

The back lighting is what attracted me to this keyboard and also why I chose it over others. You can change the lighting to blue, red, purple or off. It isn't just on or off, there is a dimmer dial which allows you to find your optimal brightness. I have read reviews saying this is pointless, but I use it frequently, adjusting to suit the lighting in the room and I find it invaluable. On full brightness the lighting is bright, but any glare is blocked by the keys. Not only do the inter-key spaces illuminate, but also the letters on the keys (they are laser etched). I rarely type un-illuminated, but with no illumination the keys are easy to see and letters appear white.

*KEYS*

The keys are the basic qwerty keyboard with media keys (play/pause, stop, skip forward/back, volume up/down, mute) and an illumination colour change key. There is also the dimmer mechanism. I often find when I buy a keyboard that the extra keys are not useful for me, but I make frequent use of the media keys (for windows media player-I can't comment on any other software). If you find you make use of extra keys then this might not be the keyboard for you unless you're willing to make the sacrifice.

The keys provide mild resistance, my preference for typing, and make a muted noise due to built in cushioning, with the exception of the space bar which is louder. So when you're hammering away at the keys trying to kill that boss in Oblivion, your girlfriend wont throw cushions at you! :)

*OTHER*

USB 2.0 connection and no need for software since the keys are basic. I've used this on Windows XP, Windows Vista and linux with no problems.

This is without a doubt the best keyboard I have ever owned. At around £40, it is not cheap but well worth the investment.

© L Wade 2009 - submitted only on dooyoo.

Summary: Sturdy, solid and attractive.

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