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Man & Machine UCool Keyboard Review

Jul 27 2008, 12:00am CDT | by

Man & Machine UCool Keyboard Review
 
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We have looked at several waterproof peripherals lately including a waterproof keyboard called the Really Cool Keyboard and a waterproof mouse. The catch with the Really Cool Keyboard was it had poor typing feel. Today we are going to look at another waterproof keyboard from Man & Machine called the UCool Keyboard that has the look and feel of a normal keyboard. Read on to see how well the UCool Keyboard performs.

Gallery

2 images
Man & Machine UCool Keyboard ReviewMan & Machine UCool Keyboard Review

Benchmarks

Features & Specifications
The UCool Keyboard is a standard sized 104-key keyboard that measures 17.75 x 6.25 x 0.75 inches and weighs 1.2 pounds. The keyboard connects to your PC via a USB port and is available in black/grey or white. Water resistance for the UCool Keyboard is to IP68 standard and the keyboard is fully submersible.

In Use
When I tested the Really Cool Keyboard from Man & Machine I found right away that it was uncomfortable to type on. I am glad to say that the UCool Keyboard doesn’t suffer from that problem. The typing feel with the UCool Keyboard is very good with keys that have plenty of travel and offer good tactile feel when pressed.

The key layout is standard QWERTY and a number pad is included as well. The hallmark of the UCool Keyboard is the fact that it can be fully submerged for cleaning. It is important to note here that the USB connect shouldn’t be submerged when cleaning.

Drain holes built into the keyboard allow cleaning fluid and other spills to quickly drain from the keyboard. Once you clean the keyboard you can allow it to air dry or wipe it with a dry cloth. It is also important to note that Man & Machine doesn’t recommend the UCool Keyboard for use in medical environments due to the inability to mechanically clean all exposed surfaces of the keyboard.

Approved agents for cleaning the UCool Keyboard are alcohol based cleaners, soap and water, chlorine based cleaners, and more. If you don’t have to be absolutely sure all surfaces of your keyboard are sterile the UCool Keyboard is a much more livable option than some of the other waterproof keyboards from Man & Machine.

Verdict

Conclusion

Pros

  • Good typing feel
  • Waterproof
  • Drain holes built-in

Cons

  • Not a medical keyboard

Verdict
In all but the most delicate medical environments the UCool Keyboard is much better and more usable than the other waterproof keyboards offered from Man & Machine. It looks and feels just like a normal keyboard with the added benefit of being cleanable.

9.0
10
 
 

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<a href="/latest_stories/all/all/3" rel="author">Shane McGlaun</a>
Leading our review center, Shane knows technology inside out. His extensive experience in testing computer hardware and consumer electronics enable him to effectively qualify new products and trends. If you want us review your product, please contact Shane.
Shane can be contacted directly at shane@i4u.com.

 

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