Microsoft Comfort Curve Keyboard 2000 - Retail

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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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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Quality, but not for everyone

Reviewed By: Mambojambo on 2/2/2010

Tech Level: somewhat high - Ownership: 1 month to 1 year

Pros: The best tactile response of any keyboard I've ever used. Beautiful feel, truly silent when other keyboards just claim to be and are not. Sturdy as all MS keyboards.

Cons: Not for everyone.

Other Thoughts: I personally found the keys to be too large and too far apart for fast, comfortable typing. After a while my wrists became a bit sore. This is a very large keyboard.

If the layout suits you, however, this may be the best keyboard you've ever owned. I really wish Microsoft made a slightly more compact, regular layout keyboard with the same key tactile response. They have one or two that come close but no cigar.

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Good Keyboard

Reviewed By: Snap on 1/23/2010

Tech Level: high - Ownership: more than 1 year

This user purchased this item from Newegg

Pros: This keyboard seams it will last forever; I've had it for years- and my hands adore it.
I'm a computer programmer, and a game enthusiast.
I wanted the curve to ease wrist strain, but a split keyboard isn't good for the hotkey-intensive games I play - such as Starcraft. (Where my left hand uses all the keys)
This keyboard is still very similar to normal keyboards, in that I have no problem switching to another when working on other peoples computers.
This keyboard appears mostly unused from when I bought it, all the letters are still bright on the keyboard. The only give away that this keyboard has been used is that the volume - and + buttons are a little smudged; as I'd expect after 2 years of use.
I personally can type 120 WPM using this keyboard.

Cons: none

Other Thoughts: Good all-around keyboard, for gamers, for programmers (lota typing) and for the casual user - due to it's low price; great feel and long life. I recommend this keyboard.

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Reviewed By: The Seabat on 1/22/2010

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

This user purchased this item from Newegg

Pros: Price
Ease of use.
Everything works.

Cons: Kinda touchy (could be me)
Legs on the bottom could give the unit a little more height/angle

Other Thoughts: This has the new style type of keys (new to me anywho) but not too extreme. More of a gentle progression to the comfort keyboards. Jury is still out on that.

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