You have selected your favorite device and software to configure your HTPC. You have gone through mountains of manuals and forums, looking for information. You have finally been able to get things up and running as you like. It is time for you to reward yourself, so you turn on your TV, and your HTPC, and sit on the couch to rest while you watch your favorite show. Then, as you are tasting those deliciously popped popcorn kernels, and drinking your soda, you think about what shows could there be on another channel, and then reality hits you...You have no remote control. [Read:A simple yet awesome IR Raspberry Pi remote control for $5]
Luckily, there are a bunch of good options in the market to help you solve this nightmare, which not only will allow you to relax, but also to perhaps write one or two e-mails from your HTPC device if it’s connected to the internet. I’m talking about the devices under the name “wireless HTPC keyboard”. Most of these devices are inexpensive, reliable, and even eye-catching. They surely will be an excellent addition to any HTPC setup, while also looking cool. [Read:15 XBMC keyboard shortcuts you should know]
Without further ado, let’s see 5 of the best wireless HTPC keyboard options currently available in the market, taking into account their unique characteristics, as well as their price and popularity. They are reflected in this article following no particular order.
You Can Type With Your Thumbs Using The Ipazzport Kp-810-21P Mini Wireless Keyboard.
A keyboard for HTPC which also exhibits a useful trackpad, the iPazzPort KP-810-21P is a device that gets the job done. An easy install; just plug in the USB receiver in your device, and then turn on the keyboard. For easy storage, you can stash away the USB receiver in the battery compartment. The trackpad works with enough precision, and the right and left click are controlled via two dedicated buttons. With a responsive keyboard and a good feel, this device enables you to type fast enough using your thumbs as you hold it. This wireless HTPC keyboard mouse is, overall, a good option to control your HTPC setup, while also being a neat gadget that is sure to catch the attention of your visitors.
Logitech K400 Wireless Media Center Keyboard
The Htpc Wireless Keyboard Logitech K400 Features A Large Trackpad.
Although Logitech K400 HTPC wireless keyboard is designed for use with TV-connected computers, it is compatible with a variety of devices with USB ports. Plug the receiver in and, most likely in a plug-and-play fashion, you can start enjoying the advantages of this medium-sized keyboard. If your HTPC device is a Windows computer, you will find support for gestures, and Windows keys; however, its clean design and fair build make it a good alternative to consider for any HTPC setup. The large trackpad, amazing battery life -advertised at 12 months with 2 AA batteries, included-, and its additional left-click button on the upper-right corner, make this keyboard an extremely helpful, yet affordable, piece of hardware. [Read:Low-power budget HTPC build 2014 for a HTPC NAS Combo]
Aerb 2.4G Mini Wireless Keyboard
The Aerb 2.4G Mini Is An Excellent Wireless Media Center Keyboard With Air Mouse Capabilities.
So you cannot decide whether to count on the ease of use of a remote or the flexibility and possibilities of a keyboard? Do you also hate trackpads? No problem! Enter the Aerb 2.4G Mini - Best HTPC Keyboard, an aesthetically pleasing remote with a wireless USB receiver, which also has some IR functions. For all practical purposes, said IR capabilities are not very useful, however, where this device does shine is in its air mouse features. With 3 gyroscopes and 3 accelerometers, you can move the remote in mid-air to point at things accurately and precisely. If you need to enter text, you just flip the device. Compatibility is a bit awkward at times, because some buttons work with one device and might not work with another, however, this is due to the air mouse being compatible with a wide variety of hardware. This wireless keyboard and mouse combo offers a nice feel on its keys, and is powered by two AAA batteries.
Logitech Illuminated K830 HTPC Wireless Keyboard and Touchpad
The Logitech K830 Wireless Htpc Keyboard Features An Useful Backlight.
If you want to use your HTPC in low light conditions, you might have a hard time identifying what keys to press, leading to frustration and waste of time. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if there were a keyboard which would allow you to control your HTPC and also enable you to use it in the dark? The answer from Logitech is a sound “yes”. The Logitech K830, while not exactly cheap, offers a good build quality, full keyboard functionality and excellent battery life. Some annoyance might come out of the fact that the backlight in the keyboard shuts off automatically after about 3 seconds of not being used, but this is done probably to conserve battery; on the other hand, the backlight adjusts automatically to ambient light, so you always have access to this feature when you need it the most. This keyboard can be recharged via USB, so forget about spending on batteries if you decide to get it. [Read:Review: Logitech K830 Wireless Backlit HTPC Keyboard with TouchPad]
FAVI FE02RF-BL Mini 2.4GHz Wireless HTPC Keyboard and Mouse Combo
The Favi Fe02Rf-Bl Is An Htpc Wireless Keyboard With A Laser Pointer.
FAVI plug and play wireless keyboard includes some features seen on other devices; however, it also includes a laser pointer. This feature is best suited for presentations and conferences in an office setting, rather than for a HTPC but if you have both needs, this device is portable enough to be an option to consider. Its small form factor, backlit keyboard, and rechargeable battery -which takes about 4 hours to be fully charged and lasts for about one month without recharging- wrap up the package on a device that, although being a little bit pricier than its similar-sized counterparts, performs really well and offers nice bonus features that will make your TV-watching experience more comfortable, and perhaps, keep your cat entertained in the process. [Read:20 Best Kodi addons in 2015 to help you cut the cord]
If you are considering buying the best wireless HTPC keyboard in 2015, you will be faced with a ton of options. Most of these offer a wide compatibility, because of the inclusion of USB receivers; however, the device you choose will ultimately depend on your needs, the HTPC setup you have, and the bonus features you want. With options in reach of all budgets, and features to appeal most tastes, there are surely some great wireless HTPC keyboard option for you.
Alejandro is an electrical engineer, working as a software developer and part-time writer. He has a passion for technology, languages and games, and has been around the web since 2004.
