Review: Adesso Flexible Full Sized USB keyboard

But can you hunt and peck while swimming?

Product name: Adesso Flexible Full Sized USB keyboard

Company: Adesso

Web site

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Product name: Adesso Flexible Full Sized USB keyboard

Company: Adesso

Web site

Price: $30

Description: This ruggedized keyboard is made from a silicone material that makes it flexible (it can be rolled up), liquid resistant and dust/sand resistant. The keyboard can be used in shallow water, as well as extreme temperatures (between -40C to 80C degrees).

Why it's a Toy of Summer: The flexibility of the keyboard allow you to roll it up to save some space while traveling, and it can be placed on uneven surfaces much easier than a bulky, hard keyboard. In addition, the spill resistance lets you take the keyboard outdoors, as it resists dust, sand and liquids (such as that margarita you just ordered). They keyboard attaches to a system via USB port, although a PS/2 adapter is included for connection to older systems.

Quick Review: The keyboard is unique in its ability to roll up and be resistant to sand, dust and liquids (we weren't afraid of spilling our drinks on the keyboard or getting sand all over it).

It took some time to get used to the feel of the keyboard, the silicone keys tended to bend towards the corners when pressed, as opposed to straight down. This might be the one time when a touch typist would be at a disadvantage in typing compared to a "hunt and peck" type. The company says that the "soft material allows a quick tactile feedback typing action that is silent and more comfortable than traditional plastic keyboards." It was tough to determine whether it was more comfortable than some keyboards we've used, but the plastic/silicone keys were a lot quieter than a normal keyboard (so, if you wanted, you could type in the hotel room at night and not bother your spouse).

Related links

Adesso gets in sync, gains new CEO
06/28/06

Adesso launches cool wireless keyboards
02/02/05

Adesso launches foldable, illuminated keyboards
11/19/04

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