The Laser Combo sports a sculpted laser mouse that works on just about any surface and has one-touch controls for launching software such as iTunes or a web site. The mouse also has buttons for volume, muting and forward and back web page navigation, while the middle wheel tilts left and right for document scrolling. You can also double-click on the wheel to open an item. I love the mouse, but I'm right handed. It's not built with southpaws in minds, so lefties should take note of this.
The keyboard uses low-profile key switches akin to the ones on a (nice) laptop, but with a firmer feel. It can also be used to launch iTunes or a web site. Other keys can be used to activate functions such as the Spotlight feature in Mac OS X 10.4 ("Tiger"), your browser's home page or Mail (or another email app, if you prefer). There's also a separate Eject key, a rocker switch for vertical scrolling, and a Back button for the browser. The keyboard also sports a non-removable palm rest for comfort.
The accompanying Logitech Control Center software has to be installed to make use of all the extra shortcut keys, however the software isn't compatible with the latest Mactel systems. According to Logitech, a patch will be out to fix this by the end of April. If you don't install the software, you can still use the standard keys and mouse buttons, but none of the extra "goodies."
With its white and sliver color scheme and "ultra-slim" (18 by 8.75 inches) keyboard design, the Laser Combo looks good with any Mac, including the pro line, thanks to its silver hues. Which is great for Power Mac, PowerBook and MacBook pro owners because Apple has never bothered to release a keyboard or mouse designed to match aesthetically with those beauties.
A USB-based mini-receiver picks up the signals and works with both the keyboard and mouse. The Laser Combo purportedly has a battery life of up to six months. I can't vouch for that, but mine has been up and running for two months and is still going strong.
The Cordless Desktop S 530 Laser is extremely comfortable, looks great and can be customized to your needs. If it were a bit more friendly for left-handers and Mactel-ready, it's be practically perfect. For now, it's close enough for me.
System requirements: Mac OS X 10.2.8 or higher, a USB port.
Macsimum rating: 9 out of 10.