I am taking an accounting class and needed a faster way to enter numbers in my lap top. I initially bought a wired number pad, but the wire got in the way. So I got the Logitech number pad N305. My first impression after removing it from the packing was that it was big and a bit heavy. I posted pictures of it next to my regular computer keyboard and on my hand. It reminded me of calculators for people with poor eyesight.
The connection to the computer was a breeze. Files were automatically installed after plugging the receiver in the computer's USB port. Afterward, I was ready to go. Keying in numbers is easy and fast, and the keys have a nice bounce. I found the calculator hot key (top center) helpful. As I was working out problems, I was able to quickly open the calculator, do addition/multiplication/division etc, get an answer, and then enter it in my online homework.
A cool feature, one can download a software from Logitech's website and use it to program the top three hot keys to do other tasks. For instance, the hot key pre-programmed to open Excel could be re-programmed to open PowerPoint, or work as the TAB key, or Arrow up key, or open a folder of your choice. The options are endless, sort of speak.
I wish Logitech had included a carrying pouch to protect it. The back of the unit is made out of a glossy black plastic that can be easily scratched. It also shows fingerprints, smudges, etc.
Overall, it cold be smaller and lighter, but we all have different needs. So this number pad might be just perfect for you. Logitech Wireless Number Pad N305
I bought a Logitech Wireless Performance Mouse MX for PC and Mac last year and liked the small receiver that barely sticks out of the USB port. Part of the point of this receiver is that you only need one for whatever accessories you have. The information on the Logitech site says that it works with number pads, keyboards, mice, etc., but I couldn't find a number pad that says it was Mac compatible. I broke down and bought one even though I knew it didn't work well.
Upon getting it, now I had one tiny USB receiver attached to my MacBook Pro, connecting to the number pad and mouse...but a couple issues were a challenge for me out of the box:
1. An extra "num lock" command sent before and after all regular keys, which actually sends a clear in Excel (no problem in a lot of apps).
2. The top "=" "(" and ")" send option and then two digits. I guess on Windows this translates to the appropriate characters.
Now using KeyRemap4MacBook version 6.7.34 and above, a N305 modification is now available under "Change KeyPad Key > Logitech N305 hack." Developer of KeyRemap4MacBook, Takayama Fumihiko, selflessly fixed these problems through some back and forth email chatter. As a side comment, I use this software to make my MBP's right option key into an enter key (like the older MBPs, since often having a single press for enter is better than function return).
Now the keypad does everything I want it to do. It is a bit bigger than the corded unit I was toting around, but it does seem durable and allows me to use the single receiver (with a backup now) to run both devices. I do like that the comment says the included AAA batteries will power the unit for years.
love this little guy!
I have a net book that doesn't have room for a 10-key but this lil-wonder has saved me. I'm an accountant by trade and love the feel and 'report' of the keys.
3 great buttons at the top of the 10-key that make this a lot more functional than other 10-key setups.
-- Excel Button - Opens a new Excel workbook when pressed. (No running through the start-menu and so on...)
-- Calculator Button - Opens a new Calculator window when pressed. (Again..No running through the start-menu to find it..)
-- Toggle Button - Toggles between the Calculator and Excel windows that the other buttons open. Kinda neat.
Great 10-Key. Easy connection. Easily packed and very travel friendly. I would recommend it to anyone.
In preparation for a math class next semester, I felt it was time to purchase a number pad to use with my laptop. I have always used Logitech products and have always been happy with them. This product met my expectations. It is a very comfortable size and can be held like a calculator if you wish. The receiver works from at least 10 feet. I love the concept of the unifying receiver unfortunately it isn't backwards compatible so I can't connect the 1 year old Logitech mouse I already have to it. It's shortcut buttons for Excel and Calculator are nice although I don't know how many people need a shortcut to Excel.
This is a very good product. It has good build quality and feels solid, and it works perfectly out of the box.
The reason I bought the N305 number pad was its compatibility with Logitech's "unifying receiver." One tiny USB receiver works with several devices at the same time. I already had a Logitech Anywhere Mouse, and both devices work perfectly from the same USB receiver, which is so small, I leave it plugged into my laptop and never notice it's there. Logitech has several excellent mice that work with the unifying receiver, as well as two keyboards. My laptop has only 2 USB ports, so I really appreciate the ability to use one tiny USB receiver with several devices.
I can think of only two negatives, and I think most people will find them fairly minor.
The first is the weight and size. Like another reviewer said, this number pad is a bit heavier and larger than expected. This might matter if you travel a lot, or bring your laptop to work every day, and are concerned with minimizing the weight of your laptop bag.
The other is that the keys are not very quiet. They aren't annoyingly loud, by any means. But this might be an issue if you enter data during meetings.
Overall, though, a great product for most people, especially those who already have, or are planning on buying, another Logitech mouse or keyboard that works with the unifying receiver. - Accessories - Wireless Keypad - Wireless - Numeric Keypad'
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