Input Devices — Keyboards
rfkey ($69), from Macally (www.macally.com): The rfkey wireless keyboard comes with easy-to-use software, but it’s prone to interference with its companion mouse. Plus the keyboard and mouse require separate base stations (March 2004).
Wireless Keyboard ($69), from Apple Computer (www.apple.com): This wireless keyboard had the longest effective range of the models we tested, mainly because it uses Bluetooth. Another plus is its conveniently small footprint ( March 2004 ).
Input Devices — Keyboard and Mouse Combinations
Cordless MX Duo ($100), from Logitech (www.logitech.com): Logitech’s wireless keyboard-mouse combo has a long-range mouse and a keyboard with nice programmable keys and a good media-key setup ( March 2004 ).
Wireless Optical Desktop ($135), from Kensington (www.kensington.com): Kensington’s mouse-and-keyboard combo has highly programmable features and a good effective range. The batteries charge via USB ( March 2004 ).
Wireless Optical Desktop ($85), from Microsoft (www.microsoft.com): Microsoft’s keyboard-and-mouse package has the best wireless mouse, thanks to its software, horizontal scrolling, and integration with the keyboard. The keyboard has good application-specific settings ( March 2004 ).
Input Devices — Pointing Devices
Bluetooth Wireless Optical Mouse ($89), from Belkin (www.belkin.com): Although this wireless mouse has a long range, we don’t recommend it. One of its buttons doesn’t work on the Mac, and there are a few other firmware-related glitches ( March 2004 ).
CintiqPartner ($200), from Wacom (www.wacom.com): This 6-by-8-inch tablet works with the same tablet pen as the Cintiq, which means you can use the tablet and Cintiq at the same time without having to switch pointing devices. For $200, this tablet is a minimal investment compared with the two grand you’ve already dropped for a Cintiq (November 2003).
iceCAD ($49), from Macally (www.macally.com): At 4 by 4.5 inches, the iceCAD is probably the tiniest pressure-sensitive graphics tablet you’ll ever see. The small size makes it a great convenience for travel, but it’s also slightly uncomfortable to use ( January 2004 ).
rfmouse ($49), from Macally (www.macally.com): This wireless mouse comes with easy-to-use software and programmable buttons, but it requires a separate base station, so you’ll need two if you also use a wireless keyboard ( March 2004 ).
ShuttleXpress ($60), from Contour Design (www.contourdesign.com): This compact, useful controller follows neatly in the footsteps of the ShuttlePro. It offers solid construction, stylish design, and customizable features. The only downside is that its programmable buttons can’t be labeled ( August 2003 ).
WingMan Cordless RumblePad ($50), from Logitech (www.logitech.com): If the convenience of a wireless game pad and future support for force feedback appeal to you, the WingMan hits a home run ( July 2003 ).
Wireless Mouse ($69), from Apple Computer (www.apple.com): One of the first Bluetooth input devices to hit the market, Apple’s Wireless Mouse has a useful tension switch to let you adjust how hard you have to press for a click to register. Also nice is the on-off switch that covers the optical sensor when it’s off ( March 2004 ).
Mobile-Mac Accessories
iCurve ($40), from Griffin Technology (www.griffin technology.com): The iCurve is a Lucite PowerBook stand with small rubber feet that keep it from sliding around. It might not seem like much, but you’ll find yourself missing the stylish stand when you work without it ( June 2003 ).
PodSleevz ($20), from RadTech (www.radtech.us): PodSleevz are thin (less than 1mm thick) microfiber covers that fit your iPod like a glove. They are tough but soft, and they come in a variety of colors ( December 2003 ).