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Logitech Craft keyboard review

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I’ve been writing about and reviewing products for over 20 years now and in that time, I’ve come to learn that the most important tools for my job are a camera, a mouse, and a keyboard. Today I want to tell you about a new keyboard that I’m testing (and typing on right now). It’s the Logitech Craft keyboard and it’s a stunner.

What is it?

The Craft keyboard from Logitech is a full-sized premium wireless keyboard that’s been designed to be used on your desk when paired with a laptop, desktop computer, phone or tablet.

Hardware specs

Connection support: Logitech Unifying 2.4GHz wireless technology Bluetooth Low Energy technology
Power: Rechargeable with USB type C cable (included)
Size: 5.87 x 16.93 x 1.26 in

Design and features

The keyboard has low profile non-mechanical keys that are more like a laptop keyboard than a traditional desktop keyboard. You can click the image above to get a closer look at the QWERTY layout which includes a dedicated number pad on the right side and a row of function keys along the top.

The keys have a comfortably rounded depression on top of each key and the matte finish of the plastic feels great under your fingertips.

Even though the Logitech Craft keyboard does not have mechanical keys, I really really like the feel of the keys. I’m a touch typist, so I’m picky when it comes to keyboards, and I enjoy typing on this one.

The Logitech Craft keyboard has a power switch on the back and a USB Type-C port beside it which is used to charge the keyboard’s internal batteries. According to the Craft product page on Logitech’s site, the keyboard’s batteries should last for a full week on a charge. That has to be a mistake because I’ve been using this keyboard for several weeks and it’s still going strong.

There’s a small LED in the upper right corner of the keyboard will glow red to indicate that the keyboard needs to be recharged.

One of the notable features of the Craft keyboard is the Crown input dial in the upper left corner. This smoothly turning knob provides a different function in a variety of applications and can be customized in the Logitech application that you can install on your Windows or macOS computer.

If you don’t install the application, turning the Crown will adjust volume levels up and down on your computer, while pressing the dial will play or pause music, and pressing and turning the dial at the same time will adjust screen brightness.


When you install the Logitech Options application, it will detect the applications that you have installed on your computer and will allow you to customize what the Crown can do in each of these apps when each detected app is in focus.

For example, if you are working in a web browser like Chrome or Firefox, turning the Crown will let you switch between tabs.

In Photoshop, the Crown can do different things based on the tool that you have selected. If you have the cropping tool selected, rotating the Crown will zoom in and out on your image, if you have a paintbrush selected, turning the Crown will change the size of the brush, etc.

Once you can train yourself to use the Crown, it becomes very useful.

You can also add other applications not detected by the Logitech Options app to add Craft Crown capabilities to other apps on your computer.

In addition to customizing the function of the Crown knob, you can also customize the function of the F-keys.

Unfortunately, you can’t setup macros for the F-keys. You can only choose from a list of features.

By default, the function keys already offer features that will let you set screen brightness, media controls including next, previous track, play/pause and volume. But you can also use it to show open windows or show all apps.

The Logitech Craft keyboard also has backlit keys. You can adjust the brightness of the keys using the function keys and built-in proximity sensors will cause the keys to light up to “welcome” you when your hands get near the keyboard after it’s been idle and then the backlight will fade in intensity depending on ambient lighting. I have the backlight turned off to save battery life, but the “welcome” feature still works even with that setting.

This keyboard can be paired with up to 3 devices using Bluetooth and/or the unified USB dongle that is included with the keyboard. Switching between paired devices is easily accomplished using the dedicated 1, 2, and 3 device switch keys next to the number pad.

I did all my testing of the Logitech Craft keyboard with my 12″ MacBook and a Pixel 2 XL smartphone. Switching between devices was fast and effortless.

What I like

This keyboard has a premium look and feel. It’s heavy which is a good thing. It stays put and won’t slide around on your desk.

The feel of the keys and the sound of the keystrokes has a perfect level that’s not too loud or too soft.

I like using the Crown knob mainly for adjusting volume and sometimes find that I forget to use it in other apps because I’ve used my mouse or keyboard shortcuts for various functions for so long that it’s tough to break that habit and use a different way of doing things.

One feature that I was really surprised to have with the Craft keyboard is a Windows-style delete key that even works when paired with my MacBook. If you’re familiar with macOS computers, you’ll know that the delete key is really a backspace key which removes the character to the left of the cursor but we don’t have a dedicated key to delete the character to the right of the cursor like Windows computers. I am excited that the delete key on the Craft keyboard lets me have the best of both worlds.

What needs to be improved

If battery life is really only supposed to last 1 week per charge, then that would be at the top of my improvement list.

As I mentioned above, I’ve been using this keyboard for 3 or more weeks every day for at least an hour and it’s still running on the initial charge, so I can’t complain about battery life until I’ve had a lot more time with this keyboard.

Look for an update after the first of the year when I am able to get a better handle on battery life expectations.

Another improvement I’d like to see is the ability to program macros for the F-keys instead of only being able to choose from a pre-set list of functions using the Logitech Options app.

Final thoughts

I enjoy using the Logitech Craft wireless keyboard. The keyboard is very well made and I find it comfortable to type on. The Crown knob adds a new way to interact with my apps that is fun and intuitive.

If the $200 price tag doesn’t frighten you away, the Logitech Craft keyboard is worth checking out.

Source: The sample for this review was provided by Logitech. Please visit their site for more info and check Amazon for lower prices.

 

Product Information

Price: $199.99
Manufacturer: Logitech
Retailer: Amazon
Pros:
  • Can be used with up to 3 devices
  • Comfortable keys and layout
  • Programmable knob and function keys
  • Delete button for macOS devices
Cons:
  • Expensive
  • Possible battery life limitations (I will need to revisit this)

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Logitech Craft keyboard review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on December 3, 2017 at 3:00 pm.

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Oura announces a new sleeker fitness ring and I want one!

Several months ago I had the opportunity to test and review a very slick fitness tracking device that had the form factor of a ring that you wear on your finger like an ordinary piece of jewelry. That was the original Oura ring and I really enjoyed using it but ended up shelving it due to the size. Now Oura is back with the second generation of their fitness and sleep tracking ring and oh boy, I am excited about it.

The new Oura Ring is now sized like a ring that I would actually want to wear because it’s less than half the size of the first generation Oura ring while still allowing for a seven day battery life. The titanium water resistant ring will be available in three styles and a choice of up to four colors depending on the style.

Like standard fitness tracking devices that you might wear on your wrist or clipped to your clothes, the Oura ring keeps track of your activity and steps. But this ring also helps to improve the quality of your sleep.

During the night, the new Oura ring tracks sleep quality, sleep stages (deep, REM, light and wakefulness), ECG level resting heart rate and heart rate variability as well as body temperature. With the new ring, users can also see their resting heart rate and heart rate variability on-demand during the day, for example during naps, meditation or breathing and relaxation exercises.

This is one of the first wearables available to consumers that offers advice on how to improve your unique circadian alignment. The circadian rhythm is your body’s built-in 24-hour clock that affects everything you do: when it would be optimal for you to sleep, rest, eat and move. The new Oura ring helps you find your optimal bedtime so you will have a more restorative sleep and good optimal recovery from daily stresses.

The second generation Oura ring can be preordered for $239 to $899 with shipping in April 2018. Visit ouraring.com for all the details.

Filed in categories: News

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Oura announces a new sleeker fitness ring and I want one! originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on December 3, 2017 at 11:35 am.

Note: If you are subscribed to this feed through FeedBurner, please switch to our native feed URL http://the-gadgeteer.com/feed/ in order to ensure continuous delivery.

Oura announces a new sleeker fitness ring and I want one!

Several months ago I had the opportunity to test and review a very slick fitness tracking device that had the form factor of a ring that you wear on your finger like an ordinary piece of jewelry. That was the original Oura ring and I really enjoyed using it but ended up shelving it due to the size. Now Oura is back with the second generation of their fitness and sleep tracking ring and oh boy, I am excited about it.

The new Oura Ring is now sized like a ring that I would actually want to wear because it’s less than half the size of the first generation Oura ring while still allowing for a seven day battery life. The titanium water resistant ring will be available in three styles and a choice of up to four colors depending on the style.

Like standard fitness tracking devices that you might wear on your wrist or clipped to your clothes, the Oura ring keeps track of your activity and steps. But this ring also helps to improve the quality of your sleep.

During the night, the new Oura ring tracks sleep quality, sleep stages (deep, REM, light and wakefulness), ECG level resting heart rate and heart rate variability as well as body temperature. With the new ring, users can also see their resting heart rate and heart rate variability on-demand during the day, for example during naps, meditation or breathing and relaxation exercises.

This is one of the first wearables available to consumers that offers advice on how to improve your unique circadian alignment. The circadian rhythm is your body’s built-in 24-hour clock that affects everything you do: when it would be optimal for you to sleep, rest, eat and move. The new Oura ring helps you find your optimal bedtime so you will have a more restorative sleep and good optimal recovery from daily stresses.

The second generation Oura ring can be preordered for $239 to $899 with shipping in April 2018. Visit ouraring.com for all the details.

Filed in categories: News

Tagged: , ,

Oura announces a new sleeker fitness ring and I want one! originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on December 3, 2017 at 11:35 am.

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Nomad Clear Case and Clear Folio iPhone X case review

The cost of repairing the screen on the new iPhone X is $279. All other damage repairs will cost you $549. Even if you purchased Apple Care+ @ $199 screen repairs would still cost you $29 and all other damage would cost you $99.

Either way, protecting your investment with a great case is more important than ever before.

I first became aware of Nomad’s Clear Case from reading an article that our very own Julie Strietelmeier wrote: “While you wait to pre-order the iPhone X, shop for a case to protect it”.

I had reviewed an Apple Watchband from Nomad earlier and knew they produced a quality product.

Upon seeing the Clear Case I immediately fell in love with it. Something about the design was different and new much like the iPhone X it was going to protect. As luck would have it before I got around to ordering the case from Nomad I received a review offer for the Clear Case.

Needless to say, I jumped at the opportunity.

My good luck continued when I received my package from Nomad. Not only did they send me the Clear Case they also included the Clear Case Folio. So this review will cover both cases.

Clear Case

The Clear Case is perfectly balanced. It combines the rustic feel of Horween leather with a sleek, minimalist design. The combination of clear plastic and dark leather give this case a really unique look that perfectly compliments the design of the iPhone X.

To protect your new iPhone the Clear Case has a rubber TPE bumper, which provides full perimeter and screen protection. Not only does it provide protection, it’s also a little tacky so it gives you a better, more confident grip on your phone.

There are plastic covers for the iPhones volume and side buttons as well as cutouts for the speakers and lightning port. The iPhone X’s camera is also well protected by a raised bezel.

The Clear Leather Case gives 6ft drop protection that will ensure your phone stays in one piece.

Inside, the bottom half of the case is lined with a soft micro-fiber to cushion your iPhone.

The Clear Case is also compatible with wireless charging.

Clear Case Folio

The Clear Case Folio is designed exactly like the Clear Case, it uses the same clear polycarbonate and It has the same TPE rubber bumper, cut-outs, etc.

It also offers the same 6ft drop protection and wireless charging compatibility.

The big difference is the leather folio cover which not only protects your iPhone’s screen but also doubles as a minimalist wallet.

The folio is designed with 3 card slots and a cash pocket. Nomad’s logo is also nicely emblazoned on the inside.

The folio is capable of holding up to 6 cards, but I found that anything more than 3 cards and a couple of bills made the case a little to bulky. The sweet spot for me was more like 1 or 2 cards and a couple bills.

Personally, I wouldn’t use this as my everyday case. But its perfect for going shopping, out to dinner, to the movies or anywhere that I don’t want the extra bulk of both my wallet and iPhone in my pockets. However, if you’re in the market for a wallet case they don’t get much better then Nomad’s Clear Case Folio.

Let’s talk about the leather

What separates these 2 cases from others out there is the leather that Nomad uses in producing each case.

The Horween Leather Company of Chicago has been around since 1905. Horween is revered for their traditional tanning techniques. The vegetable tanning method used to produce these hides result in a rugged yet beautiful leather that develops a rich patina with extended use. There are no synthetic tanning chemicals, synthetic dyes, spray paints or spray sealants used in making this leather allowing for it to scuff and scratch naturally, giving each case its own unique look.

It also guarantees that no two cases will ever look the same.

Conclusion 

Both the Clear Case and Clear Case Folio are exceptional cases. Each case does a great job of showing off the beautiful design of the new iPhone X as well as providing great protection. 

The Horween leather accents give both cases a rugged yet refined look that will only get better the more you use them.

The Nomad Clear Case and Clear Case Folio are priced at $39.95 and $49.95 respectively and can be purchased on Nomad’s website.

Now all you have to do is decide which case is right for you. Or maybe that someone special on your Christmas shopping list.

Source: The samples for this review were provided by Nomad. Please visit their site for more info and to purchase. You can also check their offerings on Amazon.

 

Product Information

Price: $39.95-$49.95
Manufacturer: Nomad
Retailer: Amazon
Pros:
  • Great looking minimalist design
  • Horween leather
  • 6ft drop protection
  • Folio Case has room for up to 6 credit cards and a cash pocket

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Nomad Clear Case and Clear Folio iPhone X case review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on December 3, 2017 at 9:30 am.

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Always be ready to share your files with the Gigs 2 Go biodegradable flash drives!

If you’re always looking for a flash drive to share large files, you might want to take a peek at these. The Gigs 2 Go flash drive pack offers four breakaway flash drives in a credit-card-sized package that fits in your wallet. These ultra-thin USB chips are not only shockproof and waterproof, but they’re also packaged in a biodegradable casing made from recycled paper and recycled plastic that you can write on. They’re perfect for photographers, salespeople, or anyone who shares big files on a regular basis.

Gigs 2 Go offers 4 Gig, 8 Gig and 16 gig variations starting at $24.95 a pack. They also offer services for preloading them with your files or adding custom printing on the casing. Check them out at the Gigs 2 Go web site!

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Always be ready to share your files with the Gigs 2 Go biodegradable flash drives! originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on December 3, 2017 at 8:28 am.

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