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Niyari brings back Atari 400 nostalgia with USB keyboard, brown never looked so good
We never got around to reviewing the Atari 400 back in 1979, but it was probably for the best -- according to Technabob, the game console's membrane keyboard was more of a finger torturing tool. But if you dig this iconic design regardless, then you may consider Niyari's similar-looking chiclet keyboard from Japan. Sure, $148.55 is pretty steep for an otherwise ordinary USB peripheral, but some old schoolers may gladly pay for this much improved typing experience, albeit 32 years too late. Head past the break to compare this device with an actual Atari 400.
Ask Engadget: best ergonomic keyboard for a Mac?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Andrew, who isn't interested in ever getting CTS. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I bought my first computer from Apple a few months ago (15-inch MacBook Pro) and I've been using it extensively around campus. I didn't give it too much notice at first, but the keyboard is making me develop wrist problems (possibly carpel tunnel?). My wrist has been hurting so much that I couldn't sleep because my wrist would keep twitching. I bought a Logitech Wave Pro, which helped my wrist problem a lot. Problem is, Logitech dropped OS X support for the Logitech Wave almost two years ago, and many of my buttons are mapped incorrectly. Which ergonomic keyboard would you suggest? I'm open to anything. Bluetooth is a bonus so I don't have to worry about a receiver, but if that degrades the performance / speed of the keyboard then I don't want it. Thanks!" We know Andrew's not alone here. There simply aren't enough legitimate ergonomic keyboard options that work perfectly with OS X, but hopefully there are one or two that have really made you folks happy. Let us know in comments below, cool?
Razer trots out mildly overhauled DeathAdder Black Edition USB gaming mouse
When you've got a good thing rolling, why stop? That's the mantra applied to Razer's latest, which is actually the third DeathAdder to be released. You may remember the original slinking out way back in 2006, with the southpaws in attendance finally getting one of their own in March of last year. Today, in order to celebrate the device's Wood Anniversary, Razer's loosing the USB-connected DeathAdder Black Edition. For all intents and purposes, this is the same DeathAdder that we came to love last decade, but with an ever-so-slightly tweaked design that adds non-slip rubber sides and an all-black finish. It'll ship globally next month for $59.99 / €59.99, with orders being taken right... about.. now. %Gallery-115306%
ThinkGeek Joystick-It brings arcade-style fun to your otherwise mundane tablet gaming experience
We've seen many arcade-style joysticks for video game consoles over the years, and the trend is making its way to the tablet market. The ThinkGeek Joystick-It attaches to your tablet's screen in a position of your choosing so that you can game on your shiny new slate in a decidedly retro way. The joystick is all-aluminum, works with any game that has an on-screen control pad, and does its thing without the use of batteries. We don't know how the device actually attaches to the display, but we do know that it is more aesthetically pleasing than other tactile control solutions we've seen at CES this year. The Joystick-It will cost $24.95 and be available by the end of January, so if old-school gaming is your thing, check out the demo video after the break. [Thanks, Jessica] %Gallery-113014%
Fling joystick lets you get physical with Super Megaworm on the iPad
You know, some people take gaming very seriously, and there's no doubt that a good portion of them will be picking up this new peripheral from Ten One Design. For $24.95, the Fling tactile game controller promises to enhance some iPad games by overlaying their virtual D-pad with a physical mini joystick. And that's not it -- the funky spiral mechanism also provides resistance to simulate force feedback, meaning your thumb will always know its boundaries. Check out the video demo after the break. %Gallery-112504%
Razer debuts Anansi MMO gaming keyboard, dares you to ever leave your basement
And you thought you were set after procuring one of the many Naga mice on the market now. Think again. In a never-ending quest to milk the MMO market, Razer has just issued the planet's first (or so it says) MMO gaming keyboard. The Anansi is a jet black board with a rather standard layout, but those seven thumb modifier keys are bound to enhance gameplay in some way or another. You'll also get over 100 programmable Hyperesponse keys with on-the-fly macro recording, storage for up to 20 gaming profiles, five bonus gaming keys and 16 million color backlight illumination. Oh, and for those of you doubting Razer's attention to detail, you can totally deactivate the Windows key while in "gaming mode." Check it this December when it ships worldwide for $99.99 / €99.99. %Gallery-106008%
Canon's X Mark I Mouse excites and exhilarates like few gadgets can (video)
If there's one thing you don't expect to find at Photokina, it's a mouse. If there's another, it's a calculator. In some strange twist of fate, we found both in Canon's press lounge, and we couldn't possibly be more elated. The X Mark I Mouse captured our attention early last month, and we've been searching up and down to get our hands on one ever since. Nestled gently between legions of camcorders and a few dozen printers was the gem we'd be searching for, and we didn't hesitate to clear the area for a brief hands-on. Both models were surprisingly large, which simultaneously made the calculator buttons easy to press and the mouse as a whole difficult to grasp. The harsh, sharp edges were no friend of Mr. Ergonomic, but we'd probably forgive it if that $63 MSRP fell to a more reasonable level. Be sure to thank a lack of sleep and all of the companies pouring out news at the show for the delirium that's after the break. %Gallery-103100%
Ask Engadget: best ergonomic Bluetooth keyboard?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Austin, who would love nothing more than to sidestep Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I'm starting to feel the effects of years of typing on crummy keyboards, so I want to spare myself further hand and wrist pain. I like the Microsoft Natural keyboards, but I'm working with my iPad most of the time, so those aren't really an option. What (if any) is the best Bluetooth keyboard as far as ergonomics is concerned?" We personally adore Microsoft's Bluetooth Mobile Keyboard 6000, which is about as curved / ergonomic as Bluetooth keyboards seem to get these days. But if anyone in the crowd knows of a legitimately "split" keyboard with a BT radio in... well, give the world a shout in comments below!
Razer BlackWidow Ultimate mechanical keyboard offers backlit, programmable keys
There are mechanical keyboards, and then there's Razer's newest duo. For the past three years, the gaming accessory company has been toiling in a back room trying to figure out how to really get mechanical keyboards right; according to it, the vast majority of the options today "feature stiff keys that cause key actuation fatigue," and it has sought to remedy said issue with the BlackWidow and BlackWidow Ultimate. Launched today over at Gamescom, these two keyboards offer key actuation that feels much like a mouse click, with an actuation point that's actually halfway through the full travel distance. The company claims that its power-packin' pair has one of the lightest actuation forces for all keyboards, making it ideal for hardcore gamers who can't be bothered with missing a single keystroke. The standard BlackWidow offers up fully programmable keys with on-the-fly macro recording as well as five additional gaming keys, while the Ultimate edition adds individually backlit keys with five levels of lighting, 3.5mm audio and microphone out jacks as well as an additional USB port. Both 'boards are due out next month for $79.99 / $129.99, respectively, and you can peek the full specs list in the press release just past the break.
Canon's X Mark I Mouse triples as calculator, numeric keypad, fame attractor
We know, we know -- you're practically married to your existing Razer or Logitech, but it looks like you may want to phone your lawyer and get the separation papers flowing. Canon -- of all companies -- has just introduced its latest critter, and it may very well be the most spectacular mousing device in the history of mousing devices. The unquestionably magical X Mark I Mouse is a wireless laser mouse underneath, but it also doubles as a fully functional calculator and a numeric keypad to boot. Bluetooth 2.0 is responsible for the connections, and the 1,200dpi sensor should please all but the most particular of users. It'll also play nice with both OS X and Windows platforms, leaving us with an inexplicable need to handle one prior to the scheduled November launch date. Oh, the price? A paltry £39.99 / €48.99 / $63, but really, you'd pay anything those blokes asked to have one of your own.
Razer Lachesis gets new 5600dpi sensor, customizable LEDs, new lease on life
Nearly three years to the day after its original introduction, Razer's Lachesis (also known as a sniper's best friend) is seeing its first major upgrade. The most significant of which is the 3.5G Precision sensor, which bumps the dpi from 4,000 (previously) to 5,600 (now). For the eye-candy lovers, there's also a functionally worthless customizable multi-color LED lighting system, but it's bound to extract a few oohs and aahs at your next LAN party. Other than the new threads and the enhanced eye, the critter is remaining the same as it ever was, but mama always said not to worry over reinventing the (scroll) wheel. Check it later this month for $79.99, and feel free to start scoping out an appropriate burial spot for your original.
Ask Engadget: best illuminated keyboard for the non-gamer?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Jeff, who can't be bothered to flip on a light switch before pounding away on the final third of his dissertation. If he can find a backpack, that is. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "As both a gamer and programmer, I spend all day at a keyboard in dimly lit environments. Work has me used to a Microsoft 'Natural' keyboard, but the closest thing that was backlit doesn't seem to be made anymore, cost a ton when it was, and didn't even have a number pad! Everything I've used or even found that is illuminated is a straight, traditional, keyboard. Is this too much to ask? So my question is: What is the best (if there even are any) illuminated, natural / ergo / curved, fully functional (dedicated "F" and number pad keys) keyboard out there? Or if one doesn't exist, what is the best illuminated keyboard for a work environment (not for home gaming... I don't need 18 extra WoW hotkeys on it)? Thanks!" Wow, that's a mouthful! But a solid question, indeed. It's not too tough to find a backlit keyboard on a laptop, but finding a desktop board with light-up keys is certainly a bigger challenge. Drop some advice in comments below, cool?
Boss turns DS-1 Distortion pedal into USB mouse, changes the game forever
Any touring guitar player worth his / her salt likely owns a Boss TU-2 Chromatic Tuner pedal, and while he / she certainly balked at the MSRP at checkout, they probably couldn't live without it now. And this, friends, is yet another item that you surely cannot live without... but sadly, you'll have to. As the story goes, Boss was offering up this DS-1 Distortion USB mouse as a limited run item on its UK website, but at just £29.99 ($43), they unsurprisingly sold out in record time. Now, there's nary a trace of the device on the outfit's webstore, but at least you've got MusicRadar's hands-on images in the source link to soothe the hurt. What's that? It only makes things worse? Dim the lights, grab the eye-black and cue the Brand New, please. [Thanks, Geoff]
Ask Engadget: Best chiclet keyboard for desktop use?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Stephen, who digs this new chiclet keyboard craze, but wants one for his desktop. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I am interested in building a brand new rig, and I've come to admire chiclet keyboards like those seen on various laptops and the Mac keyboard -- but I'm not a fan of the Apple tax. Is there a nice chiclet-style keyboard out there you would recommend for desktop users? I'd really like a full numeric keypad on it if possible." We know many of you use gaming keyboards and the like, but for those who've managed to locate a decent chiclet keyboard for desktop use, why not share your source? We're sure there are plenty to go around.
Razer trumpets leftie DeathAdder, southpaws raise the roof with just their left hand
Say it with us, southpaws: "finally!" Razer is finally taking a stand for the under-appreciated (and vastly underserved) left-hand gamer market, and while we would've given these guys even more credit for developing an all-new mouse for lefties, we'll take a redesigned DeathAdder any day of the week. In essence, the DeathAdder Left Hand Edition is the exact same mouse that debuted last September, but in left hand form. The best part? Razer's not charging a dime more for this version than the obviously more viable right handed model. Hey, guitar makers -- care to take a hint? %Gallery-88349%
Matias makes room for your smartphone on an otherwise vanilla keyboard
We can't count the number of times that we've longed for our Insert, Home, Page Up, Delete, End and Page Down buttons to be replaced with an angled slab of plastic, but obviously we're in a pretty small minority. Matias has just issued its USB 2.0 keyboard + smartphone stand, which essentially carves out a slice of keyboard real estate for your phone to sit, though no passthrough USB cable / iPhone dock connector is provided for charging. The purpose? To put all of your mobile apps right at your fingertips, because keeping said phone on your desk is just completely and utterly unacceptable. Oh, and did we mention that the layout itself is nothing special? If you see something we don't, feel free to part with your $49.95 and smile while thinking "I told you so." Update: Documentation about the keyboard indicated that "custom keypad and trackpad apps" could be loaded on to "control your Mac," which certainly makes this more appealing, but unfortunately details on that are scant.
Razer refreshed DeathAdder gaming mouse is more accurate, still hates southpaws
Zanily enough, nearly three full years have passed since Razer first introduced what would eventually become one of its best-selling gaming mice, so it goes without saying that the aging DeathAdder was due for an update. For those looking for a clean cut, straight-up gaming mouse to use between the hours of 10PM and 5:30AM, this revamped critter might just fit the bill. The biggest change is the inclusion of a 3.5G 3500dpi infrared sensor and a tangle-free braided cable, and fans of the existing design will greatly appreciate the fact that it's essentially the same (externally, of course). It's still not ambidextrous in nature (sorry, lefties), but you will find on-the-fly sensitivity adjustments, five independently programmable buttons and all the blue glow your retinas can handle. It should be available to order momentarily for $59.99 (US) / €59.99 (Europe).%Gallery-73948% Show full PR text RAZER REVAMPS DEATHADDER GAMING MOUSE WITH WORLD'S MOST PRECISE INFRARED TRACKING SENSORMajor upgrades under the hood for one of Razer's best-selling gaming miceCarlsbad, Calif. – September 24, 2009 – Razer™, the world's leading manufacturer of high-end precision gaming and lifestyle peripherals, is pleased to announce the long awaited update to the Razer DeathAdder™. Newly upgraded with a state-of-the-art 3.5G 3500dpi infrared sensor and tangle-free braided cable, the Razer DeathAdder maintains its legendary right-handed ergonomic form factor and rock solid build quality that made it famous. With these new upgrades, the Razer DeathAdder has been equipped with the world's most precise infrared sensor to date – trumping the competition yet again."The DeathAdder is undoubtedly one of Razer's best selling gaming mice," says Robert "Razerguy" Krakoff, President of Razer. "To date, the Razer DeathAdder has served the gaming community for a good 3 years and with all the advances in sensor technology, we put our sensor scientists and engineers to task to imbue it with the most precise infrared sensor in the world – but at the same time maintain the specially designed form factor that gamers have come to know and love."About the Razer DeathAdder™The new Razer DeathAdder is an upgraded replacement for the original and is now equipped with the ultra-precise 3500dpi Razer Precision™ 3.5G infrared sensor and tangle-free braided fiber cable. The Razer DeathAdder utilizes a right-handed ergonomic design to provide optimum comfort for intensive and extended game play. Its 3500dpi Razer Precision™ 3.5G infrared sensor provides gamers with 4x more precision than a standard 800 dpi mouse. The 1000Hz Ultrapolling™ response time of 1ms delivers instantaneous execution, giving gamers the competitive edge over opponents with faster communication between the Razer DeathAdder and the computer.The Razer DeathAdder maintains all of its competitive features, including its five independently programming Hyperesponse™ buttons, On-The-Fly Sensitivity™ adjustment, Always-On™ mode and Zero-acoustic Ultraslick Teflon™ feet. All of these lead to a superior, elevated gaming experience.Razer DeathAdder™COST: US: $59.99, Europe: €59.99AVAILABILITY:Razerzone.com – 24 SeptemberIn Stores – Late September Features· Ergonomic right-handed design * 3500dpi Razer Precision™ 3.5G infrared sensor· 1000Hz Ultrapolling™ / 1ms responseTechnical Specifications o 3500dpi Razer Precision™ 3.5G infrared sensor o Ergonomic right-handed design o 1000Hz Ultrapolling™ / 1ms response o Five independently programmable Hyperesponse™ buttons o On-The-Fly Sensitivity™ adjustment o Always-On™ mode o Ultra-Large non-slip buttons o 16-bit ultra-wide data path o 60–120 inches per second and 15g of acceleration o Zero-Acoustic Ultraslick™ Teflon® feet o Gold-Plated USB connector o Seven-Foot, lightweight, braided fiber cable o Approx. size in mm: 128(L) x 70(W) x 42.5(H)
First USB 3.0 product gets certified, floodgates get closer to breaking
You heard it here first, folks: SuperSpeed USB is a reality. After waiting around for what feels like ages, USB 3.0 can now say it has its first certified product in NEC's xHCI host controller. We know this may not be the most exciting first product to get the all-important seal of approval, but you've got to start somewhere. And hey, for those who know a thing or two about building a product to spec, having a legitimate host controller could sure come in handy. We spoke to Jeff Ravencraft, president and chairman of the USB-IF (the group that oversees certification and the like), and he stated that (officially) the group is still anticipating end products to hit shelves in early 2010. That said, this here host controller is available now in the open market, and he did confess that a number of manufacturers would likely try to get USB 3.0-equipped wares onto store shelves before that magical day in December.He also noted that a smattering of companies would be showcasing USB 3.0 gear at upcoming trade shows, with a Buffalo external hard drive, an ExpressCard-to-USB 3.0 adapter and even a full-on laptop with a functioning USB 3.0 port making a stop at IDF later this week. Aside from the aforesaid ExpressCard adapter -- which will let existing lappies enjoy the spoils of SuperSpeed USB -- he also noted that a PCI card would be available for desktop users looking to add a few sockets to their rig. We were also informed that USB 3.0 receptor ports will play nice with USB 2.0 cables and gadgets, albeit at USB 2.0 speed; additionally, USB 3.0 wares will be able to connect via older USB 2.0 sockets, though again at a slower rate. We've got to say, the dual-backwards compatibility is pretty sweet.We also asked him about cabling and the general market transition to USB 3.0, and he did note that USB 3.0 cables will be physically different inside. In other words, a USB 2.0 cable cannot carry data at USB 3.0 speeds, end of story. To enjoy USB 3.0, you'll need a USB 3.0 receptor port, a USB 3.0 cable and a USB 3.0 product; if you swap any of those pieces with USB 2.0, everything slows to USB 2.0 rates. Jeff also noted that the USB-IF would be coordinating the release of end products and cables, and he even said that older USB protocols may actually never completely fade from the market. After all, wireless keyboards would never need USB 3.0 speeds unless some sort of display were integrated, and particularly in cheaper products, using an older USB chipset could help keep costs down and MSRPs lower. So yeah, USB 3.0 is officially here, but the public can't play with any USB 3.0 gear just yet. But if our hunches are correct, we'd bet on at least one or two big players pushing out SuperSpeed-packin' wares before the year ends.
Gyration Air Mouse Elite gets your hands in the air, like you just don't care
Look out, y'all -- Movea's back. Almost a year to the day after the outfit introduced its air-lovin' Gyration Air Mouse, the Air Mouse Elite is stepping in to take its rightful place atop the range. As with the prior iteration, this one also responds to natural hand movements and enables presenters (or FPS players) to get far, far away from the mousepad. Put simply, the built-in motion sensors enable it to receive commands via "slight wrist movements performed in the air," and it can do so up to 100 feet away from the PC that it's wirelessly attached to. The 3.3-ounce device also ships with a suite of tools for customizing gestures, and if the $99.99 critter just isn't enough, you can spring for a $149.99 bundle that throws in a low-profile wireless keyboard.%Gallery-73329%
Microsoft's Bluetooth Mobile Keyboard 6000: barely thicker than a stack of hundies
It'd be downright appalling to ever tote around a keyboard that's thicker than your current laptop, and you can bet the suits in Redmond recognize that. To that end, Microsoft has introduced this ultraslim Bluetooth Mobile Keyboard 6000, which is just barely thicker than an AAA battery at the rear. Naturally, the curved board gets even thinner as it slopes toward the front, though it's the optional number pad that really steals the show in terms of cuteness. The BT-only device utilizes a so-called Comfort Curve design to keep your wrists from cramping up after a few lines of text, and if you're interested in claiming one as your own, get ready to shell out $89.95 when it ships next month. Oh, and as for that number pad? $44.95. Yeah, ouch. [Via HotHardware]
