sorry for the simple question, but after a few searches, i can't find any info on preserving battery life. i'm new to the wireless keyboard/mouse, and wondering if they go to sleep somehow by themselves, or should i turn them off when i'm leaving the machine for an extended period.
The wireless mouse and keyboard are supposed to turn themselves off after a period of inactivity. Maybe that works. Maybe it doesn't. I found that wireless worked poorly both in battery drainage and function. If you plan to use them, get yourself a bunch of rechargeable AA batteries. I had two of the wireless mice and keyboards. They ate batteries at a rate of 3 per month. Apple says batteries are good for up to 9 months but that's ideal. Pitch the wireless and stay teathered.
Opinions are frequently worth what you pay for them.
Apple Bluetooth mice and keyboards go into a very low power mode after a brief period of non-use. I never turn mine off and I seriously doubt that anyone would find a significant difference (on vs off).
I use 2650 mAh Duracell rechargeable batteries and a 15 minute recharger (all new from eBay at very reasonable prices). Rechargeables do not last as long as Lithium batteries, but it makes little difference if you can have fully charged batteries in 15 minutes.
Battery life is a function of usage.
In summary, I find Bluetooth devices work well and eliminate a few wires on the desktop.
In addition to what Barry posted; both the keyboard and wireless mouse turn off whenever you put the computer to sleep. In my mouse, alkaline AA batteries last about five to six weeks, rechargeables
last about four weeks between charges, and lithium batteries last about three months. I use my computer about four hours per day. By far a couple of pair of rechargables are your best bet.
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turn off mouse and keyboard when not in use
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