SMK Wireless Ultra-mini Touchpad Keyboard

Over the last year, I've tried several different alternatives for my Kodi- (XBMC-) based home theatre. Apart from the Kodi system, I needed a remote that could be used to control a web browser and the mouse. After 3 different choices, two of which died in my hands, I decided I would look for something of significantly better quality, and not automatically go for the cheaper solutions.The remotes that I have tried are: 1) 4 in 1 iPazzPort 2.4GHz Mini Wireless Fly Air Mouse Keyboard with IR Remote 2) iKross Wireless Remote Control Keyboard W/ Touchpad Mouse 3) Rii i28 black 2.4G mini Wireless Touchpad Air Mouse KeyboardOf the three items above, the first one was ridiculously cheaply made and broke after a couple of months, and the third one was great to use but I needed to recharge it once every few days and it simply stopped working after about 5 months. The second one is strongly-built and still functional, but is a bit tricky to use for a home theatre, particularly when you're simply navigating with direction keys. It's not very ergonomic - the cursor keys are lined up in a straight line, not a 4-pointed cross - and the same thumb that controls them needs to leave them to press the ENTER key for a selection.I stumbled upon a review of the SMK-Link control by accident once on YouTube, and it cost twice what the Rii i28 did, but when I received it I was very impressed. It's quite strongly built, with a very solid keyboard, and it's designed to comply with Microsoft's Media Center specifications. I can do everything with it that I need. It feels great in my hands, is very responsive, and being powered by two AA cells, it has lots of power to last quite a while. I've had it for a month now and it's got lots of juice left. (I'd recommend avoiding rechargeable units, unless you have access to the battery for replacement when they refuse to hold a charge any more.)In my opinion, there are only two things missing from this control: 1) A backlit keyboard for use in a darkened room (but that is a weakness of two of my previous choices - the iPazzPort and the Rii - with such small keyboard it's tricky to build a really solid backlit version; 2) A touchpad that supports tap-clicking - you need to use the silver left and right mouse buttons for that.I'm willing to live with these two limitations with the SMK-Link, because it feels like something of actual QUALITY, compared to the flimsiness of the cheaper remotes out there. I have the impression that this control was very carefully designed by people who really knew something about feel and usability.I absolutely love this device and highly recommend it.

I just love this keyboard. My computer is in a different room than the living room, which is where I use this keyboard. It's range is 30 feet like most wireless keyboards. So I made a little parabolic antenna (USB extension cord, CD, USB receiver for the keyboard; in that order). It is wonderful. The keyboard ready doesn't need to face the USB receiver in order for it to work. Really, I love it. It is small so it can be store like any other remote control for TV. I highly recommend this product. If you need more than a 30 feet range, make a little antenna, which costed less than $10 canadian.

Buttons are stiff, difficult to click. Keyboard isn't backlit (while this is clearly indicated in the description, I didn't realize how difficult the keys would be to see in dim light while watching a movie) .. otherwise the product is solid & well built, works as advertised.

If you are looking for a small keyboard / mouse to run your HTPC then this device should work for you. If you need something to not only run your HTPC but use for general web browsing activities this probably is the wrong product.Pros - Small, works out of the box with Windows 7, mouse pad is very functional and if you play console video games it will feel very comfortable in your hand.Cons - Limited range and easily blocked by objecs such as your computer case, your leg or your small child. I have the nMediapc HTPC 8000 case (very nice, looks like an old radio) so I had hoped to have the usb receiver in the back of the case. Unfortunately that is not possible as the signal gets completely blocked.If you plan on surfing the web for long periods of time or general computer usage then this device is not ideal. Due to it's size your hands will start to cramp (say after 35-45 minutes of use). It's also important to note that it is not back lit so if you keep your room dark while watching movies it may be hard to navigate.

Good construction , a bit pricey