Links9+ Wireless Keyboard and Mouse, Full-Size vs SABLUTE Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo - Backlit

Design and Aesthetics

The Links9+ Wireless Keyboard and Mouse features a colorful retro typewriter style, while the SABLUTE Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo presents a sleek design with a modern aesthetic. The Links9+ brings warmth to your workspace with its coffee color and round keycaps, making it visually appealing for those who appreciate a vintage touch. Conversely, the SABLUTE model boasts a retro look combined with modern functionality, offering a spill-resistant body and a detachable magnetic wrist rest for added comfort. Both designs appeal to different tastes, with Links9+ leaning more towards a nostalgic vibe, while SABLUTE focuses on a contemporary feel with its RGB lighting options.

Functionality

In terms of functionality, the Links9+ offers a user-friendly experience with 12 multimedia hotkeys for easy access to essential features. The SABLUTE combo, on the other hand, enhances usability with a backlit keyboard featuring seven color options, enabling better visibility in low-light conditions. The SABLUTE's built-in phone holder also stands out for multitaskers, allowing users to keep their devices in view without picking them up. While both products cater to productivity, the SABLUTE provides additional features that may appeal to those who work in varied lighting environments or need to manage multiple devices simultaneously.

Connectivity

Both keyboards utilize a stable 2.4GHz wireless connection, allowing users to work up to 33 feet away from their devices without the hassle of wires. The Links9+ employs a compact USB receiver that is conveniently stored in the mouse's battery cover, while the SABLUTE’s setup emphasizes a plug-and-play approach with a single USB receiver for both keyboard and mouse. The ease of connectivity is comparable, yet the SABLUTE may edge ahead due to its efficient design that simplifies the setup process for users who prefer minimalism on their desks.

Battery Life

The Links9+ incorporates an auto-sleep mode to conserve battery life, requiring only one AA battery for operation. In contrast, the SABLUTE combo features a rechargeable design for both the keyboard and mouse via USB-C, eliminating the need for disposable batteries altogether. This distinction highlights a significant difference in user experience: while the Links9+ may require periodic battery replacements, the SABLUTE offers a long-lasting power solution that is more environmentally friendly. Users who prioritize sustainability may find the SABLUTE's rechargeable feature particularly appealing.

Comfort and Ergonomics

When evaluating comfort, the SABLUTE excels with its soft magnetic wrist rest, designed to support users during extended typing sessions. This feature mitigates wrist strain, making it a more ergonomic choice for those who spend long hours at their desks. The Links9+ offers a comfortable typing experience with an optimal tilt and a lightweight design, but it lacks the dedicated wrist support found in the SABLUTE. For users who prioritize ergonomic design, the SABLUTE's inclusion of a wrist rest could make a substantial difference in daily comfort levels.

Compatibility

The Links9+ is compatible with a range of operating systems, including Windows 7/8/10/XP and Mac OS, making it suitable for various devices. Similarly, the SABLUTE model supports dual-system layouts for both Mac and Windows, and is also compatible with Linux and Chrome OS. This wide-ranging compatibility ensures that both products can cater to users with diverse technology setups, providing flexibility for those who switch between different systems. However, the SABLUTE’s broader compatibility with additional OS options could be a deciding factor for users with varied devices.

Price Point

In terms of pricing, the Links9+ is currently priced at $33.89, making it about 25% cheaper than the SABLUTE combo, which retails for $44.99. This price difference may be significant for budget-conscious consumers looking for a stylish yet functional keyboard and mouse set. While the SABLUTE offers additional features like backlighting and a wrist rest, the Links9+ delivers a solid performance at a lower price point, appealing to those who are willing to compromise on certain advanced features for cost savings.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Links9+ Wireless Keyboard and Mouse and the SABLUTE Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo hinges on individual preferences and priorities. The Links9+ stands out for its retro aesthetics and lower price point, making it a great choice for style-conscious users on a budget. On the other hand, the SABLUTE offers enhanced features such as backlighting, a wrist rest, and a rechargeable battery, catering to those who seek modern functionality and ergonomic support. Depending on your specific needs and budget, either option could serve you well in enhancing your typing experience.