Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID And Numeric Keypad Review

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If you’ve ever wondered whether a keyboard can elevate your computing experience to the level of sheer bliss, you’re in for a treat. The Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad might just be that transformative piece of tech you didn’t know you needed. This review delves deep into the nuances of this sleek keyboard, giving you the lowdown on its features, performance, and whether it’s worth your hard-earned money.

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Design and Build: Aesthetic Excellence

Let’s kick things off with the design. The Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad is a marvel of modern design. Apple has always been known for its attention to detail and minimalist aesthetics, and this keyboard is no exception. The first thing you’ll notice is the slim profile and the elegant silver color scheme. It fits right into any modern workspace, especially if you’re an Apple enthusiast who appreciates consistency across your devices.

The keyboard is incredibly well-built. It has a solid feel that belies its lightweight design. At just 0.81 pounds, it’s easy to move around, yet it feels robust enough to withstand daily use. The low-profile keys are a joy to type on, providing a satisfying click without being overly loud. This is perfect for those long hours of typing, whether you’re crafting emails, writing code, or just chatting with friends.

Touch ID: Convenience at Your Fingertips

The standout feature of the Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad is, of course, the Touch ID functionality. This little gem of a feature adds a layer of security and convenience that’s hard to beat. For those with an M1 Mac, unlocking your computer is as simple as a touch. Gone are the days of typing in your password repeatedly. This is especially handy if you’re in a hurry or tend to forget your password (no judgment here, it happens to the best of us).

Unfortunately, Touch ID isn’t compatible with iPads or iPhones, which is a bit of a bummer. It’s also worth noting that it only works with certain macOS computers. So, if you’re not rocking an M1 Mac, you’ll miss out on this nifty feature. That said, if you are part of the M1 Mac club, you’ll likely find Touch ID to be an absolute game-changer.

Typing Experience: Smooth Operator

Typing on the Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad is like gliding on a cloud. The keys are well-spaced, providing just the right amount of travel and resistance. This balance makes for a comfortable typing experience that minimizes fatigue, even during marathon typing sessions. Whether you’re a writer, a programmer, or just someone who types a lot, you’ll appreciate the thought that went into the key design.

One minor quibble is the lack of backlighting. For those who often work in low-light environments, this can be a bit of a drawback. It’s a surprising omission, especially considering the premium price point. However, if you primarily work in well-lit areas, this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker.

Connectivity: One Device at a Time

The keyboard connects to your Mac via Bluetooth, offering a wireless experience that reduces desk clutter. Pairing is a breeze, and the connection is stable. However, the keyboard only supports connecting to one device at a time. This might be a limitation if you’re someone who likes to switch between multiple devices seamlessly. On the bright side, it does come with a woven USB-C to Lightning Cable for charging and pairing, which is a nice touch.

Numeric Keypad: A Number Cruncher’s Dream

For those who deal with numbers regularly, the inclusion of a numeric keypad is a significant advantage. It’s perfect for tasks like working on spreadsheets or using finance applications. The full-size arrow keys are also a boon for navigation and editing. This addition makes the keyboard not just stylish but also incredibly functional.

Battery Life: Marathon Runner

Battery life on the Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad is impressive. Apple claims you can go weeks without charging, and this holds up in real-world use. Depending on your usage, you might find yourself charging the keyboard only once a month or even less. The internal rechargeable battery means no more fumbling for AA batteries. Just plug it in with the provided USB-C to Lightning Cable, and you’re good to go.

Gaming Performance: Stick to Casual Gaming

Let’s be clear – this keyboard isn’t designed for hardcore gaming. While the keys have a short pre-travel distance and are fairly light to press, the latency is too high for competitive gaming. It’s adequate for casual gaming, but if you’re into high-stakes, fast-paced games, you might want to look elsewhere. Additionally, the lack of macro keys or the ability to reprogram keys further cements this keyboard’s identity as more of an office and productivity tool.

Compatibility: Apple Ecosystem Integration

The Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad is designed to work seamlessly with Macs, especially those with Apple silicon. Here’s a quick rundown of compatible devices:

  • Mac Studio (2023, 2022)
  • MacBook Air (15-inch, M2, 2023)
  • MacBook Air (13-inch, M2, 2022)
  • MacBook Air (13-inch, M1, 2020)
  • MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2020)
  • MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2018 – 2019)
  • MacBook Pro (14-inch, 2023)
  • MacBook Pro (14-inch, 2021)
  • MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2023)
  • MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2021)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, M1, 2022)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, M1, 2020)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020)
  • MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019)
  • MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016 – 2019)
  • MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2016 – 2019)

If you’re using a Mac with Apple silicon running macOS 11.4 or later, you’re in luck. The keyboard pairs automatically, making setup a breeze. However, if you’re using older Macs or other devices, you might miss out on some of the features, such as Touch ID.

Portability: Compact or Full-Size?

The Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad comes in two versions: a full-size model with a numeric keypad and a compact version. The full-size model we’re reviewing here is ideal for those who need the extra keys and don’t mind the larger footprint. However, if you’re always on the go, you might find the compact version more suited to your needs. It’s easier to toss into a bag and take with you, though you’ll sacrifice the numeric keypad.

The Silver Color Conundrum

A small gripe is the limited color option. The standalone keyboard is only available in silver, even if you get an option for black but it’s just for keys, you just get black colored keys on silver color keyboard, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea. If you’re particular about matching your accessories to your device, this could be a sticking point. It’s a bit of a head-scratcher, considering Apple offers more color options when bundled with the 24-inch iMac. Maybe in the future, we’ll see a broader palette, but for now, silver it is.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

So, is the Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad worth the investment? If you’re already entrenched in the Apple ecosystem, particularly with an M1 Mac, the answer is a resounding yes. The seamless integration, Touch ID convenience, and superb typing experience make it a worthy addition to your setup.

However, if you’re using older Macs or other devices, you might not fully benefit from all its features. And if you’re a gamer, this keyboard might not meet your needs. The lack of backlighting and limited color options are also considerations.

Recommendations

If you decide to go for it, here are a few tips to get the most out of your Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad:

  • Maximize Touch ID: Use Touch ID not just for unlocking your Mac, but also for authenticating purchases and accessing secure apps. It’s a small feature that can save you a lot of time and hassle.
  • Charge Wisely: With its impressive battery life, you won’t need to charge the keyboard often. But when you do, try to charge it overnight to ensure it’s ready for the next day. The included USB-C to Lightning Cable makes this easy.
  • Keep It Clean: The sleek design is beautiful, but it can attract fingerprints and dust. Regularly wipe it down with a soft, lint-free cloth to keep it looking pristine.
  • Explore Shortcuts: Take advantage of the keyboard’s hotkeys and media keys. Familiarize yourself with the various shortcuts that can make your workflow more efficient.

In conclusion, the Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad is a stellar choice for anyone looking to enhance their typing experience. It’s not perfect, but its pros far outweigh the cons, making it a valuable tool for Mac users. Whether you’re typing up reports, crunching numbers, or simply navigating your Mac, this keyboard offers a blend of style, functionality, and innovation that’s hard to beat.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to type some more on this delightful keyboard. Happy typing!

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