Introduction

I would like to thank Ekaterina from Art.Lebedev Studio for organizing and Florian from getDigital.de for providing the review sample.

Art.Lebedev Studio is well known for its Optimus keyboard which sports OLEDs on each button. They have released interesting designer hardware, like a mouse which looks like a mouse pointer, as well as other functional items. The studio also creates websites and has made the N93 promotional website for Russia. Art.Lebedev also designs the look and feel of industrial devices like microwave ovens. Check out the long list of designs here.

getDigital.de supplies general "Geek Wear" and Toys for the computer enthusiast. You will find anything from exclusive hardware like the Optimus Mini Three to T-Shirts and Stickers on their website. They are based in Germany but do sell abroad as well. The store was founded by two avid "computer freaks" as they call themselves. Their "About us" page is quite personal and friendly, with pictures and first names. It is quite refreshing to see real faces behind a successful business like this.

The Art.Lebedev Optimus Mini Three is available in black and silver:


We got the black variant, let's take a look at it!

Packaging

The packaging of the Optimus Mini Three is a square, white card board box. While Art.Lebedev could have used a much smaller package, they kept the square theme, as all three buttons are in just that format. The top has the Art.Lebedev logo as well as the device name. Below that you will find an image of the Optimus Mini Three. The back of the box sports a sticker with the FCC and CE logo. Above that getDigital place a sticker of their own, as they are the official distributor for Germany and the surrounding countries.

Contents

There are two things inside the box: the keyboard itself and a little booklet.

The pamphlet includes a description and purpose of the device, storage and handling tips and service/warranty information. The storage and handling tips are quite a refreshing read:

Optimus mini three is a fragile electronic device. Don't let the keyboard drop, keep it save from jolts and punches. Avoid hitting the keyboard keys and body with a hammer; heating the keyboard in a microwave oven; washing it in a washing machine; hurling it against the wall; dropping it from a height; soaking it with any liquids.