Microsoft Comfort Curve Keyboard 2000 - Retail

Reviewed By: on 12/27/2006

Tech Level: high - Ownership: less than 1 day

This user purchased this item from Newegg

Pros: The curvey shape, and the fact that it's wired means I KNOW it won't miss keystrokes.

Since I learned to type the B key with my right index finger (not left) "split" keyboards won't work for me. But I like the curved shape.

Also, I'm an old timer, so I dislike how more modern keyboards have rearranged PgUp/Dn, Home, Del, and Insert.

Also, this doesn't have the "F lock" key, which is good. A function key should be a function key. (grumble grumble)

Cons: If you hate wires, that's a con. But I've had too many bad experiences with wireless keyboards missing keystrokes, no matter how close I put the receiver.

Other Thoughts: I am "upgrading" from the much more expensive "Microsoft Wireless Comfort Keyboard". It misses keystrokes no matter what I do, in addition to the F lock and huge delete key issues which I can't get used to.

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Good Keyboard With Improved Layout

Reviewed By: DocDragon on 11/15/2005

Comments: Summary: The MS Curve 2000 is a good compromise between "true" ergonomic split keyboards and the conventional ones.

Pros:
+ the 3x2 key-layout above the arrow keys is finally back, which is great for people who do a lot of text editing!
+ short key hubs (similar to laptops) allow for less fatigue and faster typing speeds, especially for "marathon" writers -> for the fingers, typing is truly comfortable
+ curved layout reduces strains on wrists, although not as much as with true split keyboards
+ PnP (Plug-and-Play), ie. no drivers needed for standard functions -> I have therefore not installed the included software, and I won't in order to reduce system and memory load, but you need it to fully take advantage of additional keys located above the function keys

Cons:
- support for USB ports only (USB to PS/2 converters do NOT work!) -> especially important for those who are using KVM-switches like I do
- keyboard is too flat for my taste, even with the feet tilted out to increase inclination
- because of the only moderately curved layout and not split, you can still feel the strain on your wrists -- important for those who have a history of CTS
(carpal tunnel syndrome)
- letters on the keys seem to be glued on and not laser-etched -> it's just a matter of time when they will fade

Bottom line: Do I recommend it? Yes, if you know what you are looking for and b/c of its price. For newbies to ergonomic keyboards, this keyboards presents a nice introduction without the (short) learning curve that is usually associated with split ergo keyboards.

I have been through quite a few ergonomic (ie. split) keyboards ranging from Microsoft, Logitech, and Adesso -- wired and wireless. I'm currently using the split MS Multimedia Keyboard (newegg item # N82E16823109117) and it is OK, nothing to "wow" about. The Curve 2000 keyboard here is definitely the right step forward. I especially appreciate the comeback of the 3x2 key-layout (the six keys) above the arrow keys, which are simply a must for people who do a lot of word processing. If you consider the price, it's certainly a keyboard that I would chose over any other standard ones. Supposedly to resist spills (haven't tried it out, yet ;), it feels sturdy and well-built without the typical "plastic" feeling that you find in other keyboards in this price range.

My next project would be to try out the new MS Natural 4000 and find my personal PERFECT input device...

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It's a keyboard

Reviewed By: Ghost on 11/18/2009

Tech Level: high - Ownership: 1 week to 1 month

This user purchased this item from Newegg

Pros: Cheap. If you are expecting bells and whisles...you should buy a train:D

Cons: Flat keys..really really flat keys

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Nice until now

Reviewed By: ticotexas on 11/18/2009

Tech Level: high - Ownership: more than 1 year

Pros: nice feel; very good price

Cons: a key has stopped working with moderate use and typing after only one year

Other Thoughts: i like it but wish it was more reliable

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Reliable, rock-solid, wonderful.

Reviewed By: Rollins on 11/13/2009

Tech Level: high - Ownership: more than 1 year

This user purchased this item from Newegg

Pros: I'm on my second one, because the first one had a few keys die after several years of abuse. That said, it took those years of abuse quite well up until the moment it decided to pass on.

It works without drivers, the curve of the keys is extremely comfortable for touch typists, and it has a fair set of extra buttons. I never knew how much I used the Calculator button until I no longer had it. The media buttons work great with my music player of choice, MediaMonkey.

Cons: Really, I have no significant complaints about this keyboard. I suppose the fact that it's wired might be a problem for some, but I prefer it since I play UT3 and a few other shooters online from time to time.

Other Thoughts: I haven't found a wired keyboard that matches this one for the price.

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