Logitech Mini Controller for Logitech Revue and Google TV

• Compatible with Logitech Revue and Google TV systems
• Thumb-sized QWERTY keyboard searches content from the Web, your TV programming, and more
• Navigates and scrolls easily with combination touch pad/D-pad
• Entertainment-system controls like Play, Pause, Rewind, and Fast Forward
• Changes backlighting depending on functionality

I'd like to start out and say that there is a lot of misunderstanding and some controversy over this product.

Logitech produces TWO products that appear nearly identical but have very important differences.

1) Logtiech Dinovo mini

2) Logitech Mini Controller

If you're simply looking at pictures you'll see almost no discernible differences. The major difference to be concerned with is the communication technology. The Dinovo mini uses Bluetooth Wireless communication while the Mini Controller uses RF wireless.

I have owned and used BOTH of these devices and will say that I 100% recommend the Mini Controller!

The ONLY downside, if I consider it one, is that the Mini Controller requires a small USB micro-transmitter because motherboards/computers don't have RF built-in compared to many that have BT built-in.

While the Dinovo Mini may have additional compatibility with more devices out of the box I found the bluetooth signal was easily interrupted which led to jumpy mousing on the touchpad and inconsistent typing. I would type a complete sentence and only see 3 letters show up, 10-15 seconds later the enter sentence would immediately appear like the computer had caught up to what I was doing.

With the Mini Controller I have never once had inconsistent communication with the computer. I have used this controller exclusively on my new computer build (HTPC) and it is excellent as an input device for all types of control; OS setup/testing, media playback, file transfer, etc. The Mini Controller also works well with the Sony PS3 (transmitter plugged into USB port of course) and while I do not own an Xbox 360 I presume it would work with this as well.

The Mini Controller has a removable Li-Ion battery that when charged lasts over a month with general use! The device also automatically shuts off when the lid is closed and when re-opened is functional within a second!

There are two modes for the controller; Pointer and Directional, controlled by the little switch just to the left of the circular pad in the upper right hand corner. Pointer mode always touchpad control exactly like you're used to on a laptop with excellent feedback and quick response. Directional mode functions like a gaming D-Pad allowing left/right/up/down motion useful in moving between lines in documents or other applications. Both modes have "OK" or "Enter" when you push the center down.

While the Mini Controller can appear a bit pricey to some I feel its benefits strongly outweigh the cost and con of an external transmitter. I have compared this device to many others including Harmony Remotes, Rii Controller, Boxee Box Controller, Mediaboard Pro, and full wireless keyboard/mouse solutions. While a full-keyboard will allow faster typing it requires two separate devices (keyboard + mouse) to accomplish all functions the Mini Controller provides.

The compact package, speed of communication, instant on/off function through the clamshell cover, battery life, and overall form of the Mini Controller make it the single best wireless input controller I have found or seen.

EDIT 2012.06.17

I still rate this device as 5-stars, however, I have noticed a slight buzzing sound coming from the device when the backlight is on (mousing or typing). This has not impacted operation at all. Range is the same, quality of connection is also the same. I admit to being VERY sensitive to sound so this may not even be perceivable by most people it's a small electronic buzz but I wanted to share. The buzz started approximately 6 months (Jan 2012) after initial use and I have continued to use it since then (a total of 11 months) without any other issues.

EDIT 2012.09.18

The buzzing seems to come and go with no obvious pattern. I have not noticed it interfering with any functions or reception ranges and it's only noticeable if you're very sensitive (I can hear it but my wife cannot and calls me crazy).

The main mouse button (upper left hand corner) takes more direct pressure to click now than when the device was new but still functions properly.

Buy Logitech Mini Controller for Logitech Revue and Google TV Now

I bought this for my Media PC (win 7) hooked up to my Media center FLAT SCREEN. Nothing better then a palm size wireless keyboard to type in Napster tunes, or sit back and use the internet on your large screen TV. As far as using it for a Google TV?? I guess it will work, but it works great with a Desktop PC as a media center for the living room... Thumb pad mouse is simple to use and typing on it is easier then then today's cell phones.

Best Buy Reps say it won't work with a desktop.... what do they know, it works great... BTW 25 ' range I am using it at, I can't find non-blue-tooth devices reaching that far very well..

5 stars here!

Read Best Reviews of Logitech Mini Controller for Logitech Revue and Google TV Here

There's a bit of a paradigm shift in this from the regular keyboard that comes with the Logitech Revue. The keys are laid out differently, which is necessary for the compact size, but some of the decisions defy logic to me. On the regular keyboard/controller, volume and channel up/down are on the right of the device. on this one they're on the top and the left. That's not a big deal if it's all you use, but I constantly find myself looking for those keys instead of just going to them naturally. Maybe not an issue if this is your primary remote control. The odd little lid is a bit strange as well...not sure what they were thinking with that, other than it looks cool when it's closed.

On the plus sides, the size is reasonable for a full qwerty keyboard remote, and it's easy to thumb type on it. The backlighting is very nice in a dark room, a big plus compared to the full sized keyboard that comes with the Revue.

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I bought this because of the back lighting. It does this well and is very colorful too! When the touch pad in enabled, the back light is a circle. When the D pad is enabled, the back lighting turns into 4 points and is a different color. Very well done.

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I bought this for my boyfriend who has an HTPC hooked up to his 50" tv. He loves the thing! He is actually using it to surf the internet while I sit here writing this on my laptop. It works great for him. It has tons of functionality, battery is great, range is great. No complaints at all. One of the best things I've ever bought for him!