Looking into the budget Alogic Echelon keyboard and mouse for Mac? Get answers to the 10 most common questions on features, battery, gaming use, and whether it’s the right fit for casual users.
Searching for an affordable keyboard and mouse combo for your Mac setup? Before hitting buy on Alogic’s Echelon series, get the scoop on the top 10 most frequently asked questions to see if they match your needs and preferences.
Alogic Echelon Series: Budget-Friendly Keyboard & Mouse for Mac Users
The world of Mac accessories can get expensive fast. From dongles to hubs, stands to sleeves, Apple’s ecosystem commands premium pricing. But paying top dollar isn’t always feasible or necessary, especially for more basic add-ons like a keyboard and mouse.
That’s where Alogic’s Echelon series comes in. Positioned as a budget-friendly line of Mac peripherals, the Echelon keyboard and mouse offer pared-down feature sets at wallet-friendly price points. But are cheaper always worse? Let’s find out if these accessible Mac companions can stand up to daily use.
Alogic Echelon Keyboard Review
Alogic’s Echelon keyboard for Mac retails at $59.99, though current discounts drop it to $48 via promo code. For less than $50, what exactly do you get? More than you might think.
Full Layout in Familiar Form
Keyboard layout can make or break the typing experience. Fortunately, Alogic equipped the Echelon with a complete 109-key design including:
- Function row
- Standard letter keys
- Modifier keys (Control, Option, etc.)
- Arrow keys
- Number pad
- Media controls
Better still, the key arrangement closely resembles Apple’s own Magic Keyboard. So if you’re already used to that style, adjusting to the Alogic alternative should prove seamless.
In terms of materials, the Echelon employs chiclet-style keys set in matte white plastic. Is it as sleekly premium as Apple’s metal and glass? Not quite. But far from cheap or toy-like.
As for key feel, key travel offers a pleasing balance between shallow (MacBook) and deep (mechanical). Keypresses register reliably during typing sessions without issues like sticking, double letters, or missed inputs.
In all, the full-sized Echelon layout coupled with responsive key mechanisms make for a comfortable, desktop-worthy typing experience – especially given the budget price.
Mac-Specific Functions
As a keyboard built specifically for Mac, it’s no surprise to find Apple-tailored functions baked right in. Convenient touch-sensitive controls across the F1-F12 row allow quick access to:
- Display brightness
- Mission Control
- Spotlight Search
- Media playback
Plus usual shortcuts like volume adjustment, mute, keyboard backlight levels, and more. No need to memorize tricky key combos – system controls are right at your fingertips.
Better yet, the delete key actuates Mac’s Backspace function while a dedicated key under the return button opens Finder’s home folder view.
Do you lean on your number pad for data entry? Alogic empowered those too with macOS shortcuts for:
- Select All
- Cut
- Copy
- Paste
It’s a small touch that pays big convenience dividends, especially for spreadsheet mavens.
Fuss-Free Features
The Echelon keyboard connects via Bluetooth 3.0 or 5.0 with multipoint pairing supporting up to three devices simultaneously. Switch between Mac, iPad, and iPhone with a couple key taps – no replugging required.
Onboard battery life also impresses, lasting weeks between charges. The white USB-C charging cable tucks neatly into the keyboard’s rear channel when not juicing up.
Note the unit does automatically sleep shortly after idle, which may frustrate users accustomed to always-ready desktop keyboards. A quick key tap brings it back online, but proves mildly disruptive during lengthy work sessions.![Alogic Echelon Keyboard Side View][]
Alogic Echelon Keyboard Side View
For the budget-friendly price, most welcome such a robust feature set. But if keeping continually active ranks as a must-have, pricier desktop solutions may better suit your needs.
Alogic Echelon Mouse Review
Keyboard done, how does Alogic’s matching Echelon mouse stack up? Selling for $24.99 (or $20 with promo code), expectations understandably slide southward. Yet even at the lowered price point, buyers get a surprisingly capable pointer partner.
Ambidextrous Design
Shaking hands with the ultra-lightweight Echelon mouse reveals a strictly symmetrical chassis catering to both left and right-handed users. Simply toggle macOS system preferences to rearrange button layouts on the fly.
While ambidextrous accessibility scores points for flexibility, the harmonized contoursFail provide less tailored comfort than dedicated handed mice. Still, the low weight coupled with grippy matte textures enable easy all-day handling.
Essential Features Only
This is no feature-packed powerhouse mouse built for gaming or creative work. Instead, the streamlined Echelon delivers just essentials:
- Right & Left Click Buttons
- Scroll Wheel (With Middle Button)
- Rechargeable Battery
- Dual Connectivity Options Bluetooth 2.4GHz Wireless Dongle
Total customization stays limited as well with no configurable CPI sensitivity, customizable thumb buttons, infinite scroll unlocking, or gesture controls.
But for general navigation, document work, and web use, the pared-down spec sheet gets the job done. Clicks emit minimal noise for distraction-free offices while retaining positive tactile feedback. Middle button clicks sound sharper but see infrequent use anyway.
Scrolling lacks high-speed inertia but tracks cleanly through lengthy web pages. And at just $20, only the pickiest power users will pine for more.
Decent Battery Life
Bluetooth wireless mice often succumb to middling battery runtimes, demanding constant charging vigilance. Not so with Echelon – Alogic cites up to 3 weeks between charges thanks to smart sleep modes.
My testing tallies over 5 days so far with allowance for heavy initial usage. While not scientifically confirmed yet, 3 week estimates seem reasonable judging by power consumption so far.
When juicing eventually proves necessary, the USB-C charging port handily tops off battery levels without blocking mouse use. It takes about an hour to fully recharge once empty.
Multipoint Pairing
Like its matching keyboard, the Echelon mouse supports simultaneous pairing to multiple devices. Two Bluetooth links pair to Mac and iPad while the 2.4Ghz fob handles high-performance duties on a Windows gaming rig.
Toggling between gadgets takes just a few button clicks. Sure, manually switching falls short of automatically shifting pointers between screens on premium mice from Logitech. But it’s leagues better than unpairing and repairing each time.![Alogic Echelon Mouse Side View][]
For general everyday work on Mac or iPad, the multipoint flexibility provides plenty. Gamers and creative pros naturally thirst for more.
Echelon Series – Who Are They For?
In reviewing both keyboard and mouse, a narrative emerges – the Echelon series delivers maximum value to:
Casual Mac Users
- Office workers
- Students
- General computer users
Those requiring full desktop layouts in a slim, Mac-tailored form factor will appreciate the Echelon keyboard. And the ambidextrous mouse pulls double duty for lefties or righties on a budget.
Secondary Devices
- Travel laptops
- Tablets
- Media PCs
Thanks to multipoint Bluetooth pairing, the Echelon series serves well as backup input devices for phones, tablets and laptops. Toss either in a bag for easy connectivity on the go or lounge time on the couch.
First Mac Accessories
Just joining the Apple ecosystem? The Echelon series makes for approachable first-time accessories. They check all the boxes for Mac compatibility and familiarity without demanding premium outlays while exploring a new desktop environment.
Not Ideal For
- Creatives/gamers needing advanced feature sets
- Users wanting seamless multi-device switching
Graphics mavens, video editors, and hardcore gamers naturally thirst for higher-end peripherals. And those regularly toggling between multiple screens may prefer automatic pointer warping supported on pricier models.
But for most other casual Mac users, Alogic’s budget-friendly Echelon bundle deserves a close look.
Bottom Line
The Echelon keyboard and mouse don’t pretend to compete with premium names like Logitech or Razer. Forget luxuries like ergonomic contours, hand-stitched leatherette, customizable RGB lighting, or alloy metal builds.
What they do deliver is approachable pricing starting at just $20. All while packing essential features tailored for Mac in slim, muted designs ideal for clutter-free desks.
For shoppers prioritizing price over features or flair, Alogic Echelon peripherals bring surprising value. Their pared-down spec sheets tackle day-to-day computing with all the Apple-friendly functions you need – and none you don’t.
So if you’ve been pondering budget-friendly Mac accessories, don’t dismiss the Echelon series outright. There’s more value here than initially meets the eye.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alogic Echelon Keyboard and Mouse
Looking into getting new computer accessories but don’t know where to start? We’ll break down the most common questions on the popular Alogic Echelon keyboard and mouse to help simplify your buying decision.
Key Features and Performance
What connectivity options does the Echelon keyboard have?
The Echelon keyboard connects via both Bluetooth 3.0 and Bluetooth 5.0. It can also pair with up to three devices at once, allowing you to easily switch between using it with your Mac, iPad, and iPhone whenever needed. No plugging and unplugging required!
How long does the battery last?
Battery life is rated to last for weeks between charges. Many users report only needing to charge once a month or less, even with heavy daily use.
Will the Echelon mouse work for both left and right handed people?
Yes! The Echelon mouse uses an ambidextrous design that works for both lefties and righties. You can quickly switch the button layout to fit your dominant hand through macOS system preferences.
Compatibility and Use Cases
Does the Echelon series work with MacBooks and iPads?
Absolutely! Both the keyboard and mouse are designed specifically for high compatibility with MacBooks, iMacs, and iPads. They connect easily via Bluetooth and require no special drivers or dongles.
Who are the Echelon Series best suited for?
The Echelon series offers great value for:
- Casual users – general home/office tasks
- Second devices – travel, lounging on the couch
- Users new to Mac – affordable way to try Apple ecosystem
- Not ideal for creatives, gamers, or multi-device users
Can I use the Echelon mouse for gaming?
The basic two-button mouse lacks features hardcore gamers need like a high CPI sensor or customizable profile settings. Casual gamers may find it adequate, but the mouse isn’t made specifically for gaming.
Design and Quality
Does the Echelon keyboard offer a full desktop layout?
Yes, it has a complete 109-key layout including function row, modifiers, arrow keys, numpad, media controls, and more. The size, spacing, and key arrangements closely follow Apple’s own Magic Keyboard.
What material is the keyboard made from?
The Echelon Keyboard uses chiclet-style keys set into lightweight matte white plastic. It doesn’t match the premium metal builds from brands like Apple, but provides good rigidity and avoids feeling overly cheap.
How do the mouse clicks feel?
The main right and left click buttons have quiet, positive clicks that aren’t distracting in shared workspaces. The middle scroll wheel button clicks louder but sees less frequent use.
Does the scroll wheel support high speed scrolling?
Unfortunately no – the scroll wheel operates normally but lacks advanced features like high-speed inertia scrolling for quickly moving through long documents or web pages.
Source: Product listings on Alogic.co and Amazon. YouTube reviews from Unbox Therapy, iDB and 9to5Mac.
Now that you’ve got the facts on Alogic’s budget-friendly Echelon keyboard and mouse pair, let us know if you have any other questions! Feel free to leave a comment or share your reviews if you end up trying them out yourself.
