Well, this is a different kind of nerd post. Never did I think I’d be writing a blog post and filming a video for a presentation remote! Nonetheless, I’m going for it. I had to purchase a presentation remote for an instructor course I’m currently taking. I did some brief research on Amazon and decided on the Logitech R800. More information after the video!
The Logitech R800 is a laser presentation remote with LCD display for time tracking. It retails for $79.99 but I was able to purchase it for approximately $50 via Amazon. The device features include:
- Green laser pointer
- Navigation buttons
- Up to 100-foot range
- LCD display which shows battery life, time, and wireless reception.
- Provides vibrating alerts to help you keep track of time
- Plug-and-play wireless receiver (USB)
The R800 is compatible with Windows-based computers, so I tried it out on my desktop. I also tried it on my Mac, because you never know!
Windows: Plug-and-play. I connected the receiver to my destkop and launched PowerPoint (Office 365). Everything worked just fine. It was what I expected.
Mac OS: Plug-and-play, but with some tweaking. Upon connecting the receiver to my Macbook Pro, the Keyboard Assistant immediately popped up. Instead of trying to go through the new keyboard wizard, you simply close it out. Then, I launched PowerPoint for Mac and the presentation remote worked with the same functionality I received with Windows. This is important to me since I would likely use the Macbook Pro for mobile presentations. It should be noted that this device does not work on iOS devices; however, the Logitech 500 (Amazon Associate) does.
From what I’ve used so far, here’s my overall first impressions:
- This thing just works. No frills, nice features with the LED display, and good handling.
- Even though it only supports Windows devices (officially), it does work on Mac OS.
- The green laser doesn’t seem as brilliant as a red laser. It apparently shows up on LCD televisions but I found it to be extremely faint.
- Having a timer built into the device is a nice touch.
- I’m happy they included batteries and a small carry pouch.
- Please Logitech (and other companies), do away with plastic clam shell packaging. It’s still a pain, even if you market it as “easy open.”
- I’m putting this device in my laptop bag and I can see myself using this whenever a presentation is necessary.
If you’re interested in learning more, or maybe purchasing, check out the R800 via my Amazon Associate link!