Apple Magic Keyboard Review

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Introduction

Alright, folks, gather ’round because today we’re diving into the ins and outs of the Apple Magic Keyboard 2017. This little piece of tech is designed to make your typing experience as smooth as butter on a hot pancake. Whether you’re pounding out emails, writing the next great novel, or just trying to look cool at your local coffee shop, the Apple Magic Keyboard has something to offer. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get into it.

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First Impressions

Sleek and Stylish Design

The first thing you’ll notice about the Apple Magic Keyboard is its sleek, minimalist design. It’s like the keyboard version of a little black dress—simple, elegant, and always in style. The low-profile keys and slim build make it an attractive addition to any desk setup. Plus, if you’re the type who likes to keep things neat and tidy, the wireless design will help you avoid the dreaded cord jungle that plagues so many workspaces.

Build Quality

Apple is known for its attention to detail, and the Magic Keyboard is no exception. The build quality is solid, with a durable aluminum frame that feels premium. It’s sturdy enough to withstand the occasional coffee spill or frustrated slam (we’ve all been there). Despite its lightweight design, it doesn’t feel flimsy at all. You get the sense that this keyboard could last through a zombie apocalypse, or at least through several years of heavy use.

Typing Experience

Scissor Switches

Now, let’s talk about the typing experience. The Apple Magic Keyboard uses scissor switches, which are a step up from the rubber dome switches found in many other keyboards. Scissor switches provide a more stable key press, with less wobble and a more satisfying tactile feel. It’s like the difference between typing on a typewriter and a mushy, old-school keyboard. The scissor mechanism underneath each key ensures that your keystrokes are smooth and precise.

Comfort and Key Travel

Typing on the Magic Keyboard is a dream. The low profile and optimized key travel make for a comfortable typing experience that won’t leave your fingers feeling like they’ve run a marathon. Each key press is quiet and responsive, which is great if you work in a shared space or just don’t want to annoy your significant other with loud typing noises. The key travel is short but satisfying, making it easy to type quickly without feeling like you’re bottoming out on each stroke.

Ergonomics

Ergonomics are crucial, especially if you’re spending long hours at your desk. While the Magic Keyboard doesn’t have a built-in wrist rest, its low profile helps reduce the strain on your wrists. If you find yourself typing for hours on end, you might want to invest in a separate wrist rest, but for most users, the design of the Magic Keyboard should be comfortable enough.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Wireless Connectivity

The Apple Magic Keyboard connects to your devices via Bluetooth, making it incredibly easy to set up and use. Simply pair it with your Mac, iPad, or iPhone, and you’re good to go. The wireless design not only looks cleaner but also provides more freedom to position the keyboard wherever it’s most comfortable for you. No more being tethered to your desk by a pesky cord.

Compatibility

Here’s where things get a bit tricky. The Apple Magic Keyboard is designed primarily for Apple devices, and it shows. While it works seamlessly with Macs and iPads, Windows and Linux users might run into some compatibility issues. Some keys might not function as intended, and you might lose out on certain shortcuts or functionalities. If you’re an Apple loyalist, this won’t be a problem, but if you like to switch between different operating systems, it’s something to keep in mind.

Battery Life

Rechargeable Battery

One of the standout features of the Apple Magic Keyboard is its built-in rechargeable battery. Gone are the days of hunting for AA batteries in the middle of the night. The Magic Keyboard comes with a Lightning to USB cable that you can use to charge it up. And the best part? The battery life is incredible.

Long-Lasting Power

Apple claims that the Magic Keyboard can last about a month or more between charges, and in my experience, that’s pretty accurate. Of course, your mileage may vary depending on how much you use it, but for most users, charging the keyboard once a month will be more than enough. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of deal, which is exactly what you want in a wireless keyboard.

Features and Shortcomings

Missing Backlighting

Alright, let’s address the elephant in the room: the Apple Magic Keyboard doesn’t have backlighting. For some, this might be a deal-breaker, especially if you often find yourself typing in low-light conditions. Backlit keys are great for night owls or those who like to work in dim environments, and it’s a feature that’s becoming increasingly common in keyboards. Unfortunately, it’s missing here. If you absolutely need backlit keys, you might have to look elsewhere or invest in a good desk lamp.

Lack of Programmable Keys

Another area where the Magic Keyboard falls short is the lack of programmable keys. Many modern keyboards offer customizable keys that you can program to perform specific functions or shortcuts, which can be a huge productivity boost. The Magic Keyboard keeps things simple with a standard layout and no extra frills. This minimalist approach might appeal to some, but power users looking for more customization options might be left wanting.

Full-Size Variant

If you need a numeric keypad, there’s a full-size variant of the Magic Keyboard available. We haven’t tested this version, but based on the performance of the compact model, it’s safe to assume that it offers the same solid typing experience with the added benefit of a numeric keypad. This might be a better option for those who do a lot of number crunching or data entry.

Day-to-Day Use

Office Work

For everyday office work, the Apple Magic Keyboard is a fantastic choice. Its quiet keys mean you won’t disturb your colleagues (or your dog) while you’re typing away. The wireless design keeps your workspace tidy, and the comfortable typing experience means you can pound out reports, emails, and spreadsheets without any discomfort.

Creative Writing

If you’re a writer, the Magic Keyboard might just become your new best friend. The tactile feel of the keys and the comfortable key travel make long typing sessions more enjoyable. Plus, the minimalist design means you can take it with you wherever you go. Just pair it with your iPad or MacBook, and you’re ready to write the next great American novel from your favorite coffee shop.

Casual Use

For casual use, like browsing the web or sending quick messages, the Magic Keyboard is more than capable. Its quick and responsive keys make everyday tasks a breeze. And if you’re using it with an iPad, it can turn your tablet into a more functional workstation, which is great for those times when you need to get some light work done on the go.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Sleek Design: The Apple Magic Keyboard’s minimalist design looks great on any desk and pairs perfectly with other Apple devices.
  • Comfortable Typing: The scissor switches provide a quiet and comfortable typing experience that’s easy on the fingers.
  • Wireless Convenience: Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in rechargeable battery mean no more tangled cords or hunting for batteries.
  • Long Battery Life: With a battery life of about a month between charges, you won’t have to worry about frequent recharging.
  • Build Quality: The durable aluminum frame feels premium and sturdy, ensuring the keyboard will last for years.

Cons

  • No Backlighting: The lack of backlit keys might be a drawback for those who work in low-light environments.
  • Limited Compatibility: While it works perfectly with Apple devices, Windows and Linux users might experience some compatibility issues.
  • No Programmable Keys: Power users looking for customizable keys might be disappointed by the lack of this feature.
  • No Built-in Wrist Rest: While the low profile is comfortable, a built-in wrist rest would have been a nice addition for extra ergonomics.

Recommendation

So, should you buy the Apple Magic Keyboard? It really depends on what you’re looking for in a keyboard.

Ideal For Apple Users

If you’re an Apple enthusiast with a lineup of MacBooks, iPads, and iPhones, the Magic Keyboard is a no-brainer. It integrates seamlessly with your devices, offers a comfortable typing experience, and looks fantastic on your desk. The long battery life and wireless design add to its appeal, making it a great addition to any Apple-centric setup.

Great for Office and Productivity Use

For those who need a reliable keyboard for office work or productivity tasks, the Magic Keyboard is a solid choice. Its quiet keys and comfortable design make it a pleasure to type on, and the wireless connectivity keeps your workspace clutter-free. Just be aware of the lack of backlighting and programmable keys, which might be important for some users.

Consider Your Needs

If you need a keyboard that works well with Windows or Linux, or if you require customizable keys and backlighting, you might want to explore other options. There are plenty of keyboards out there that offer these features, and while the Magic Keyboard is excellent in many ways, it might not tick all the boxes for everyone.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Magic Keyboard 2017 is a well-designed, high-quality keyboard that offers a comfortable typing experience and seamless integration with Apple devices. Its sleek, minimalist design and wireless convenience make it an attractive option for many users. However, the lack of backlighting, limited compatibility with non-Apple devices, and absence of programmable keys are factors to consider before making a purchase.

In the end, the decision comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a keyboard that’s stylish, comfortable, and works flawlessly with your Apple devices, the Magic Keyboard is a fantastic choice. But if you need more customization options or compatibility with other operating systems, you might need to keep looking.

So, there you have it—our in-depth Apple Magic Keyboard review. We hope this helps you decide whether this sleek piece of tech is the right fit for your typing needs. Happy typing!

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