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I am in no ways a “neat freak.” My desk is cluttered with three keyboards (I need each for different purposes), three mice (same excuse), and a bunch of other such, such as a Dwight bobblehead.

Wireless peripherals are a godsend as they reduce the wires that add to this clutter, but an even better setup is a wireless keyboard and mouse combination that doesn’t even need a desk to sit on—just a lap.

The Phantom Lapboard is a byproduct of what was once to become the next great gaming console: the Phantom game console. Despite the media attention and anticipation, the Phantom never got off the ground, leaving behind the Phantom Lapboard as its only relic. Here it is, on my lap as I type away.

So how does this work? The Lapboard is attached to a base with a small docking station for a mouse. When the keyboard is tilted upward, it locks into position and allows more room for the mouse to move. There’s about 3.5–4-inches of vertical clearance and enough horizontal space to move the mouse comfortably.

The keyboard can be rotated from its base so that lefties and righties can position the mouse on either side of the keyboard. Both peripherals sync with the same transceiver with a range of 32.8 feet or 10 meters. They also require two AA batteries which are included.

The keyboard includes your full typing area and Function keys, including three buttons to mute, increase or decrease volume. The Function keys also can be toggled with the Fn button to access a hefty selection of multimedia commands—an important decision given that the Lapboard is a good candidate for the living room. The keys have a short vertical height like that of a laptop keyboard.

The Phantom Lapboard is approximately 18-inches long with a combined weight of 4 pounds, 4 ounces. It’s not particularly small on your lap, nor is it light, but that does help secure the unit in place.

Now it’s time to discuss what’s good about the Lapboard, and what’s not so good. Continued…