Amazon Basics Wireless Keyboard & Mouse Review Verdict
A surprising number of buyers rate the Amazon Basics Ultra Premium Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo highly for everyday office use, yet the mouse draws consistent criticism for feeling “cheap” and undersized. Weighing the praise against the complaints, the verdict lands at 7.8/10 — solid value for budget-conscious users, but not ideal for those seeking a premium mouse experience.
Quick Verdict: Conditional
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable, quiet full-size keyboard | Mouse feels cheap and too small for many |
| Long battery life with on/off switches | No wrist support on keyboard |
| Easy plug-and-play setup | Keyboard lacks on/off switch in some models |
| Solid build quality for price | Occasional Bluetooth lag reported |
| Extra function keys useful for productivity | Mouse glide pads not smooth on all surfaces |
| Lightweight, portable design | Packaging can hide USB receiver, easy to lose |
| Compatible with multiple OS and devices | Some long-term reliability concerns |
Claims vs Reality
Amazon Basics markets this combo as “ultra premium,” highlighting its ergonomic wave design, quiet typing, and strong 2.4 GHz wireless connection up to 33 feet. They also emphasize a “comfortable palm rest” and “rechargeable battery” for some variants. While these features are technically present, user reports reveal nuances.
For example, the ergonomic claim resonates with office workers. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: “The spacing between the keys is well-designed… reducing typing errors,” and praised the “large cushioned palm rest.” However, others pointed out missing elements — one Trustpilot reviewer warned: “The keyboard doesn’t have an on/off switch… we put the laptops and peripherals away, and no option here.”
The long-range wireless claim holds up in practice; multiple users confirmed stable connectivity. A Reddit user explained: “Both devices connect easily using a single 2.4 GHz USB receiver… it’s truly plug-and-play.” Yet, a few reported minor Bluetooth lag, particularly in heavy typing sessions. Jourdan on Quora stated: “Sometimes the Bluetooth lags so I just have to make sure I re-read what I write to catch any missed keys.”
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Amazon, Trustpilot, and Reddit, the keyboard earns the bulk of positive feedback. Typists appreciate the quiet, responsive keys — essential for shared workspaces. Stoneweaver28 on Quora shared: “It has nice key travel and the key press isn’t too soft. It’s built sturdy and doesn’t feel cheap.” Designers value the extra function keys; one Trustpilot reviewer wrote, “I prefer a full-sized keyboard over compact versions… this meets those needs better than any other I’ve researched.”
For remote workers, easy setup is critical. Buyers repeatedly mention the convenience of the shared USB receiver. A verified buyer on Amazon stated: “Wireless connectivity is stable and quick to set up… I connected both the keyboard and mouse in less than 2 minutes.”
Battery life is another standout. BestViewsReviews data shows 99% of users appreciated its longevity, with one remarking: “I can go for days without needing to recharge even with daily and heavy usage.” This makes it suitable for travel or hot-desking environments where charging outlets aren’t always accessible.
Common Complaints
The mouse, however, faces widespread criticism. Many feel it’s too small and too light, making it uncomfortable for extended use. An Amazon reviewer cautioned: “If you have anything resembling a size hand bigger than a toddler, then just don’t bother with it.” Others mention poor glide performance — pads that don’t move smoothly over some mouse mats. A Quora post highlighted: “The gliding pads… not very slick, so the mouse does not smoothly move.”
Durability concerns also surface. A Trustpilot reviewer recounted: “At the 6 month mark, one of these have failed… the mouse does phantom trailing and the scroll wheel will jet you to the bottom or top of the page.” Some keyboard units reportedly reassign keys randomly, forcing restarts or battery reseating.
Packaging design has tripped up buyers. Multiple users warned the USB receiver isn’t stored in the mouse or keyboard, but in a cardboard fold inside the box — easy to throw away accidentally.
Divisive Features
Weight and materials split opinion. Some enjoy the lightweight build for portability, while others equate it with cheapness. One Twitter user remarked: “It is very light… almost too light.” Similarly, while many praise the quiet “chicklet style” keys, a few find them too loud compared to older Amazon Basics models.
Ergonomic benefits are appreciated by smaller-handed users, but larger-handed users often find the mouse cramped. The compact size makes it travel-friendly but less ideal for design work or gaming where precision grip matters.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot reviews reveal mixed long-term reliability. While some have used the combo for over a year without issues — “I have two of these sets… long battery life, quick response” — others experienced failures within months. Warranty resolution appears inconsistent; one buyer detailed having to “prove” the warranty with a screenshot before Amazon processed a refund.
On Reddit, durability patterns show the keyboard lasting longer than the mouse. One post bluntly stated: “Mouse too flimsy for gaming, have shelved it in favor of older mouse.” This suggests that while the keyboard can be a dependable workhorse, the mouse may need replacing for certain tasks.
Alternatives
Several buyers compare it to Logitech combos. Rick’s Daily Tips noted: “Just be sure to consider the size of the mouse… especially if your hands are larger than average.” Some IT professionals even recommend it over more expensive name brands for basic office use, citing its value and battery life.
However, for those needing a more robust mouse, Logitech’s MK270 or MK540 combos offer better ergonomics and build quality. The trade-off is price — these alternatives often cost twice as much.
Price & Value
Amazon lists this combo around $28.57 to $33.90 depending on variant, with occasional coupons. eBay resale prices suggest limited second-hand value — one auction closed at $3.20 for a used unit. This aligns with its positioning as a low-cost, functional set rather than a collectible or premium accessory.
Community buying tips include checking packaging for the hidden USB receiver and considering separate mouse upgrades if precision or comfort is a priority.
FAQ
Q: Does the keyboard have an on/off switch?
A: Some models do not. Trustpilot reviewers noted the mouse has one, but the keyboard may rely on sleep mode instead.
Q: Is the mouse suitable for large hands?
A: Many users find it too small and light for comfort if they have large hands. Several recommend replacing it for better ergonomics.
Q: How is the battery life?
A: Widely praised — users report weeks to months of use on a single charge or set of batteries, depending on model.
Q: Can I use it with Mac or Linux?
A: Yes, buyers confirm compatibility across Windows, Mac, and Linux via the plug-and-play USB receiver.
Q: Is it good for gaming?
A: The keyboard performs fine, but multiple users find the mouse too flimsy or imprecise for gaming.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a budget-conscious user seeking a quiet, full-size keyboard for office or home. Avoid if mouse comfort and precision are critical — consider replacing the included mouse. Pro tip from the community: Always locate the USB receiver before discarding packaging to avoid a frustrating setup hunt.
