Solar keyboards: substance behind the hype?

A comparison of Logitech's K750 keyboard and AUO's solar-powered notebook solution

It’s looking more and more like solar keyboards are going to be the hot new Christmas item this year.  Earlier this week, Logitech released its K750 solar-powered wireless keyboard, and then on Wednesday, AU Optronics, based in Taiwan, released its own solar keyboard solution for notebooks.  A solar-powered computer sounds like a dream come true, but do the devices deliver what they promise?

When I heard about AU Optronics’ solar notebook, I was elated, until I learned that the 14-inch solar panel keyboard doesn’t actually power the computer.  Rather, the solar panel cuts down external power usage by 20%, which isn’t bad, but not the heaven of romping through a grassy field sans power cord that I had envisioned (I guess I can still do that...but it's not the same).

Essentially, the keyboard is a touchscreen display that is integrated into a solar panel 2.1 millimeters thick.  The solar panel can charge off of indoor or outdoor light and the solar keyboards will be installed in the manufacturer’s other laptops.

“The specially designed transparent touch keyboard enables users to readily move about their fingers and control the images for the enjoyment of trendy technology,” the company said in its press release, referring to the keyboard’s sleek, button-less surface, which features the outline of a keyboard much like a tablet touchscreen.

The solar notebook keyboard will be showcased at the upcoming FPD International in Chiba, Japan on November 10.

I was less enthusiastic about Logitech’s K750, namely because I haven’t owned a desktop computer in well nigh eleven years, so it seemed a little irrelevant to me. But if I did own a desktop, I would be thrilled about the release of a solar-powered keyboard!

Logitech’s K750 solar-powered keyboard features solar panels along the length of the .33-inch thick keyboard, which, like AU Optronics’ keyboard, can charge under both natural and artificial light.  And even without a regular recharge, the keyboard battery will last for up to three months.  “Plus, with its PVC-free construction and fully recyclable packaging, it’s designed to minimize its footprint,” said Denis Pavillard, vice president of product marketing for Logitech’s keyboards and desktops, in the company’s Monday press release.

The keyboard features a lux meter to ensure that it is getting the necessary light to enable a charge, as well as a battery level alert.  Like Logitech’s other keyboards, the solar-powered K750 will offer Logitech Advanced 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity.

Logitech’s K750 is slated for release in the U.S. and Europe this month and will retail for $79.99.  There is no word yet on what AU Optronics will be charging for its solar notebook.

Neither Logitech nor AU Optronics was immediately available for comment. 

Image sources: logitech.com, digitimes.com