Rii i8+ Mini Wireless Keyboard vs Logitech MK850 Performance Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo

Design and Form Factor

The Rii i8+ Mini Wireless Keyboard is designed as a compact, slim multimedia device, whereas the Logitech MK850 Performance Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo offers a full-size keyboard and mouse set tailored for extended desk use. The Rii i8+ focuses on portability and multi-functionality by combining a keyboard with a touchpad in a mini form, ideal for casual or mobile setups. Its slim touchpad remote supports multi-finger gestures like single and two-finger clicks and double-finger drag, enhancing usability in tight spaces. In contrast, the Logitech MK850 features a contoured right-handed mouse with a hyper-fast scroll wheel and a full-size keyboard with a cushioned palm rest, designed for hours of comfortable typing at a desk. This difference highlights the Rii i8+ as a compact all-in-one solution priced at C$22.99, while the Logitech MK850 offers a more traditional, ergonomically focused setup at a significantly higher price of C$89.99.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Both the Rii i8+ Mini Wireless Keyboard and the Logitech MK850 are wireless, but their connectivity and compatibility cater to different user needs. The Rii i8+ operates via a USB receiver and requires no driver installation, offering a plug-and-play experience compatible with Android TV Box, Google TV Box, Xbox360, PS3, HTPC/IPTV, Android, Windows, and MacOS. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile option for media centres and various platforms. On the other hand, the Logitech MK850 is fully multi-device and multi-OS friendly, allowing seamless switching between computers, tablets, and phones. This capability is particularly advantageous for users managing multiple devices simultaneously, reflecting its performance-oriented design. The Logitech’s certified refurbished status also comes with a minimum 90-day warranty, ensuring reliability across devices.

Typing Experience

Typing comfort and experience vary considerably between these two products due to their form factors and intended uses. The Logitech MK850 features a full-size keyboard with carefully crafted keys and a cushioned palm rest, designed to enable quiet and comfortable typing for hours. This setup suits professionals or heavy users who require a durable and ergonomic keyboard for desktop use. Conversely, the Rii i8+ Mini Wireless Keyboard has a standard QWERTY layout but is compact and designed more for casual or media control input rather than prolonged typing sessions. Its small size and integrated touchpad make it less ideal for lengthy typing but more suitable for controlling a TV or entertainment system. The comfort and typing efficiency of the Logitech MK850 justify its higher price of C$89.99 compared to the Rii i8+ at C$22.99.

Mouse Functionality

The mouse functionality between the two products is distinctly different in both design and purpose. The Rii i8+ integrates a wireless touch mouse within its mini keyboard, supporting single-finger clicks for left mouse functions, two-finger clicks for right mouse functions, and two-finger drag for scrolling. This touchpad-style mouse is ideal for compact spaces and casual navigation, especially when controlling smart TVs or media boxes. In contrast, the Logitech MK850 includes a contoured right-handed mouse equipped with a hyper-fast scroll wheel, enabling users to quickly scroll through documents and web pages. This mouse is designed for precision and speed, catering to users who need efficient navigation and control during intensive computing tasks. Thus, the Logitech MK850 provides a more traditional and performance-optimized mouse experience compared to the touchpad approach of the Rii i8+.

Features and Additional Functionality

The Rii i8+ Mini Wireless Keyboard stands out with its LED backlight feature, providing white illumination that facilitates comfortable input in dark environments, which is especially useful for home theatre setups. It is a 3-in-1 multifunction device combining a wireless keyboard, mouse, and touchpad, emphasizing versatility. The product also boasts a 12-month warranty and friendly customer support. On the other hand, the Logitech MK850’s distinguishing feature is its certified refurbished status, ensuring the product looks and works like new, backed by a minimum 90-day warranty. It supports multi-device switching, which is a key functional advantage for users managing multiple systems. While lacking backlighting, the MK850’s durability, quality assurance, and multi-device flexibility enhance its appeal for professional or heavy users.

Price and Value

There is a substantial price difference between the two products, with the Rii i8+ Mini Wireless Keyboard priced at C$22.99 and the Logitech MK850 Performance Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo at C$89.99. The Rii i8+ offers an affordable, multifunctional device well suited for casual users, media control, or those needing a compact wireless keyboard with mouse capabilities. In contrast, the Logitech MK850 commands a premium price reflecting its full-size ergonomic keyboard, dedicated mouse with advanced scrolling, multi-device compatibility, and certified refurbished assurance. Buyers seeking a budget-friendly, portable device will find the Rii i8+ a strong candidate, while users prioritizing comfort, performance, and multi-device workflows will see greater value in the MK850 despite the higher cost.

Warranty and Support

The Rii i8+ Mini Wireless Keyboard provides a 12-month warranty and emphasizes a friendly, easy-to-reach support team, making it a reliable option for users who may require assistance within the first year of purchase. This warranty period supports confidence in the product’s durability for its price point. The Logitech MK850, being a certified refurbished product, comes with a minimum 90-day warranty, which is shorter but typical for refurbished items. Its certification process includes functionality testing, inspection, and repackaging, ensuring a product that looks and works like new. The Logitech’s warranty and refurbishment guarantee offer peace of mind for buyers who prefer a high-quality device at a reduced price, whereas the Rii i8+ offers a standard new product warranty with direct customer support.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Rii i8+ Mini Wireless Keyboard and the Logitech MK850 Performance Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo depends largely on your use case and budget. If you need a compact, multifunctional wireless keyboard with an integrated touchpad for media control or casual use, especially on devices like Android TV Boxes or gaming consoles, the Rii i8+ at C$22.99 offers excellent value. It includes LED backlighting and broad device compatibility, making it a versatile and affordable choice. However, if your priority is a full-size, ergonomically designed keyboard and a dedicated high-performance mouse capable of multi-device switching for professional or heavy desktop use, the Logitech MK850 at C$89.99 is the superior option. Its certified refurbished status ensures quality, and it is built for comfort and productivity during extended sessions. Ultimately, the Rii i8+ serves well as an entry-level, portable device, while the MK850 suits users demanding a premium, multi-device desktop combo.