Wireless Keyboard/Mouse for HTPC

[kamadzu4]

So I've been looking for something I can use to operate my HTPC while sitting on my couch. Unfortunately, there really isn't a "standard" product made by someone like Logitech, and the one solution from Microsoft apparently suffers from terrible range. (BTW, all the typical "wireless desktops" in fact have ranges that are totally inadequate for use on a couch several feet away from the HTPC/receiver).

So I had finally narrowed things down to this one from Vidabox (http://www.vidabox.com/shop/index.ph...products_id=83) and this generic from X-gene (http://www.x-gene.biz/products/wirel...irelesskb.html - the one on the bottom).

I went with the Vidabox version since I figured that it was designed by a company that specializes in HTPC's, and just received it today. The keyboard itself is pretty reasonable, and reminds me of a laptop. The trackball mouse is pretty terrible, though, with a very rough feel and very slow movement across my 1920x1080 Vista desktop. And, one thing I forgot entirely about was a scroll wheel, which this model does not have. I'll play around with it for a bit more, but will most likely end up returning it.

So I've been thinking more about the X-gere, and the more that I have researched it, it looks like there is 1 model but it comes "rebadged" under multiple manufacturers' names and model numbers. For example:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16823130006

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16823166079

http://www.microcenter.com/single_pr...uct_id=0260283

And, of course, the standard X-gene: http://www.directron.com/01027.html

As far as I can tell, these are all exactly *the same* piece of hardware. I am kind of surprised that Newegg would have 2 of these with a $10 price difference... I guess the question would be whether there is any advantage to getting anything other than the cheapest one I can find?

[Citat3962]

The X Gene looks good I don't have one personally but I'm in the market for a replacement for my crappy wireless mouse and keyboard I'm currently using.

[heyman421]

http://www.upgradenation.com/Microso...id-550646.html

Why look anywhere else?

Keyboard, mouse, and media center remote in one.

Works with 360, too.

FYI, i'm by no means suggesting you buy it from that store. They were just the first non-ebay link froogle popped up.

[Auzner]

I think this looks awesome.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000J43HJ8/
http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/ke...s/192&cl=us,en
But over budget. I've built a HTPC for my family, but I'll probably be the one using it. My dad paid for it all because he thinks he needs it. Fair enough, I just don't get to take it with me when I move out. But I'm taking all the movies with me since I own 90% of the storage.

This is my list from Fry's. I think they all have a built in mouse of some sort.

BTC 9029URF $59.99
BTC 9019URF $39.99
Versapoint RF VP6210 $89.99
Versapoint RF VP6241R With remote $129.99
Logitech diNovo Edge Y-RAY81 Bluetooth $199.99
Gyration Media Center And Remote Combo RF W/ Remote $149.95

My dad wants to use this http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Cordl...dp/B00006B9CR/ and a RF keyboard I have.
The Zalman HD160 comes with a MCE IR remote that supposedly might be all we need for it.

[wiggywild]

If you go with a speaker and mouse make sure to get some quality rechargeable batteries. Mine are drained surprisingly quickly!

[ValueSize]

I used the gyration wireless duo set for both my HTPC and CarPC and loved it.
I've used the real version of that x-gen keyboard that you linked and the trackball version sucks compared to the rubber thumb version (like a really large laptop finger mouse thing). I used to help teach a technology course in high school so we had this key board so I could still walk around and be able to demonstrate so I've put in a lot of hours with it.

[dancomer]

i use the microsoft wireless keyboard and mouse and it works great no complaints here, cheap and works great, but just my .02 id say try something and if it does not work take it back, trial and error is the best way to go

[ether.real]

What model do you have?