Microsoft Wireless Laser Desktop 5000

The Microsoft Wireless Laser Desktop 5000 is an impressive package. As the name hints, both the keyboard and mouse are wireless, and therefore require 2xAA batteries each. Usually we despise the use of non-rechargeable batteries but Microsoft has repeatedly proven that you just need a device that uses its power efficiently.

Microsoft happily announces on the box that estimated battery life is six months, and from our previous experience with Microsoft Wireless products we can firmly believe that claim.

The keyboard is a dream to type on; caviar for the fingertips. It's adorned with multimedia keys and keys that allow you to access the essentials such as documents, pictures, Internet browser, email client, multimedia application and even a Windows Live call button.

The keyboard, of course, comes with Microsoft's standard Enhanced F Keys, and to help with the usual chores such as cut, copy and paste, Microsoft has labeled the shortcut keys and clearly indicates that Ctrl needs to be pushed. The keyboard features the best palm rest that we have ever used; fake leather and padding – nice.

The mouse is a dream to move around. It glides effortlessly on both table tops and high-end mouse pads alike. The 1000dpi laser is precise and the buttons are responsive. The four axis tilt smooth scroll wheel is a pleasure to use. There is, however, one issue we had with the mouse. The button on the right-hand side is in the way.

By default it is set to be a shortcut to a magnification screen, but because of where it is placed your finger will end up hitting it often, very often. So a quick deactivation of this button is essential to your sanity, unless you are partially blind. It even proved to be a very capable gaming mouse, although more hard-core gamers will laugh at this.