A little-bit pretty, a whole-lot uncomfortable
Month Reviewed: April 2005
Verdict:
URL: www.deckkeyboards.com
We love a good illuminated keyboard. We sure wish someone would make one. TG3’s latest Deck looked like a contender. It sports individually illuminated keys, extremely satisfying action, and a design ripped straight from a highway-patrol cruiser. That’s right, the USB BL82 is based on the same chassis as many of the keyboards used in squad cars and emergency-response vehicles.
Knowing its heritage, we figured the Deck would be coffee- and donut-proof. It’s not. Nonetheless, it’s the sturdiest keyboard we’ve tested in years. The hard plastic chassis and diamond-plate underbelly prove that it’s built to last. The manufacturer encourages modding, too, although we’re skeptical of the claim that modded keyboards are still covered under warranty, as long as the mod is “of proper workmanship.” (Potential buyers should also be aware that mods will void the keyboard’s 30-day money-back guarantee.)
But flashy looks and sturdy construction don’t add up to much if the keyboard doesn’t deliver on its primary function, and after using the BL82 for just a few minutes, we concluded that few cops are touch typists. Because the BL82 was originally designed to work in a small area, it uses an incredibly condensed QWERTY layout, with extra keys strewn willy-nilly around the keyboard. Not only are the Home and End keys in odd places, but the modifier keys—Ctrl and Alt—aren’t where you’d expect them, either. This means touch typists will have to relearn common keyboard shortcuts.
The cramped layout is particularly disappointing because we love this ‘boards key action. Pressing any of the keys requires a deliberate effort, which is rewarded with a meaty click. For editors familiar with the king of all keyboards, the device that shipped with the original IBM PS/2, the clicky BL82 evokes fond memories. But this isn’t the right keyboard for anyone wanting a quiet computing experience. The clickiness we find appealing is bound to irritate light sleepers.
There’s really no reason the BL82 couldn’t sport a standard full-size key layout. With the standard 104-key layout, this would have been a strong Kick-Ass award contender. As it stands, it’s barely an also-ran. --Will Smith
+ Diamond plate: Sturdy design and great lighting.
- Fuzzy toilet seat covers: Too cramped to use on a daily basis.
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