Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard ReviewThe Latest Guide

A Sturdy and Attractive Build

As someone who spends an inordinate amount of time typing away at a keyboard, finding the perfect one is akin to finding the Holy Grail. Enter the Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard. At first glance, this keyboard immediately impresses with its sleek, modern design. The dark grey and grey color scheme exudes sophistication, making it a stylish addition to any workspace. It’s not just a pretty face, though; the build quality is commendable, with a solid, sturdy feel that suggests it can withstand the rigors of daily use.

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Typing Feel: A Typist’s Delight

The most crucial aspect of any keyboard, particularly for someone who types as much as I do, is the typing feel. The Satechi SM1 does not disappoint. This keyboard uses low-profile brown switches, which strike an excellent balance between smoothness and tactile feedback. These switches provide a satisfying typing experience without being overly loud, making it suitable for both professional environments and late-night typing marathons. The low-profile design makes the keys easier to press and helps reduce fatigue during long typing sessions.

Wireless Connection Options Galore

In a world increasingly moving away from cables, the Satechi SM1’s multiple wireless connection options are a godsend. You can connect up to four devices simultaneously and switch between them effortlessly. This is particularly useful for those of us juggling multiple devices. Switching is as simple as holding down FN + 1 or FN + 2 for Bluetooth connections, FN + 3 for the USB receiver, and FN + 4 for wired mode. This versatility means you can seamlessly switch from your laptop to your tablet or even your gaming console without missing a beat.

Long Battery Life: A Marathon Runner

One of the standout features of the Satechi SM1 is its impressive battery life, especially with the backlighting turned off. This keyboard can go for days, even weeks, without needing a recharge, depending on your usage. This longevity is a huge plus for someone who values reliability and hates the constant hunt for a charging cable. When it does need recharging, the process is quick and painless thanks to the included USB-C charging cable.

Cost-Effective Excellence

Price-wise, the Satechi SM1 is a steal compared to Apple’s Magic Keyboard. You get similar, if not superior, functionality at a fraction of the cost. It’s a win-win situation: you save money and get a high-quality product that enhances your productivity. For anyone looking to upgrade their typing experience without breaking the bank, the Satechi SM1 is a no-brainer.

The Lack of Customization Software: A Minor Setback

No product is perfect, and the Satechi SM1 is no exception. One notable drawback is the lack of dedicated customization software. While the keyboard offers several built-in lighting patterns and adjustable brightness levels, it would be nice to have more granular control over these settings through software. For instance, being able to create custom macros or remap keys would elevate this keyboard to the next level. However, this is a minor quibble in the grand scheme of things, especially given the keyboard’s other strengths.

Low-Profile Design: Not for Everyone

The low-profile design, while a boon for many, might not suit everyone’s preferences. Some users might find the keys too shallow or the travel distance too short. If you’re someone who prefers the feel of traditional, high-profile mechanical keyboards, you might need some time to adjust to the Satechi SM1. That said, once you get used to it, the low-profile design can significantly enhance your typing speed and comfort.

USB-A Dongle: A Blast from the Past

In an era where USB-C is rapidly becoming the standard, the Satechi SM1’s use of a USB-A dongle for its 2.4GHz wireless connection feels a bit outdated. This is a small but noticeable inconvenience, especially for those of us with devices that only have USB-C ports. An updated version with a USB-C dongle would be a welcome improvement, making the keyboard more compatible with modern devices without the need for additional adapters.

Ergonomic Design and Customizable Backlighting

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Satechi SM1 shines in its ergonomic design. The keyboard is compact yet comfortable, with adjustable feet that let you set the angle to your liking. This adjustability, combined with the low-profile keys, helps reduce strain on your wrists during extended typing sessions.

The backlighting on this keyboard is another standout feature. You get 14 customizable lighting patterns and three brightness levels, which you can easily adjust using the F5 and F6 keys. The backlighting isn’t just about aesthetics; it also enhances visibility in low-light environments, making it easier to type accurately in dim conditions.

Wide Compatibility: One Keyboard to Rule Them All

Another area where the Satechi SM1 excels is in its wide compatibility. Whether you’re using a Mac, a Windows PC, an iPad, or even a Chromebook, this keyboard has you covered. It comes with Windows keycaps that can replace the Mac-specific CMD and Option keys, making it versatile enough to use across different operating systems. Switching between Mac and Windows modes is straightforward: just hold FN + O for Mac/iPadOS/iOS and FN + P for Windows.

What’s Included in the Box

The Satechi SM1 doesn’t skimp on accessories either. Inside the box, you’ll find a USB-C charging and data cable, a 2.4GHz USB receiver, a one-year warranty, three additional Windows keycaps, and a user manual. This comprehensive package ensures you have everything you need to get started right out of the box. The inclusion of extra keycaps is a thoughtful touch that adds to the keyboard’s versatility.

A Compact Powerhouse: Dimensions and Portability

At 12.2 inches long, 4.69 inches wide, and just 0.83 inches high, the Satechi SM1 is compact and portable. It’s easy to carry around, making it a great choice for on-the-go professionals and gamers alike. Despite its small size, the keyboard feels substantial and robust, giving you confidence in its durability.

Gaming on the Satechi SM1: A Surprisingly Good Experience

As a mechanical keyboard, the Satechi SM1 is also suitable for gaming. The tactile feedback from the low-profile brown switches provides a responsive and satisfying experience during gameplay. While it might not be the first choice for hardcore gamers who prefer high-profile mechanical switches, it’s more than capable for casual gaming sessions. The compact layout means you have more desk space for your mouse and other peripherals, which is always a bonus in a gaming setup.

Adjusting to the Low-Profile Design: Tips and Tricks

For those new to low-profile keyboards, there might be a slight learning curve. Here are a few tips to help you adjust more quickly:

Take It Slow: Start by using the keyboard for short periods and gradually increase your usage time as you get more comfortable.
Practice Makes Perfect: Spend some time practicing your typing on the new keyboard. This will help your fingers adjust to the shorter travel distance.
Use the Feet: Experiment with the adjustable feet to find the most comfortable typing angle for you.
Customize the Lighting: Play around with the backlighting settings to find a pattern and brightness level that suits your preferences.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard is an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their typing experience. It combines a sturdy and attractive build with a superb typing feel, multiple wireless connection options, and impressive battery life. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the lack of customization software and the use of a USB-A dongle, these are easily outweighed by its many strengths.

The keyboard’s compact and ergonomic design, wide compatibility, and affordable price point make it a fantastic option for professionals, gamers, and anyone in between. If you’re in the market for a reliable and stylish mechanical keyboard that won’t break the bank, the Satechi SM1 is well worth considering.

Recommendation

After thoroughly testing and using the Satechi SM1, I can confidently recommend it to anyone seeking a high-quality, versatile mechanical keyboard. Its balance of form and function, combined with its affordability, makes it a standout choice in a crowded market. Whether you’re typing up reports, playing games, or switching between multiple devices, the Satechi SM1 has you covered. Give it a try—you might just find that it becomes your new favorite keyboard.

Remember, though: if you’re someone who needs extensive customization options or if you’re strictly a high-profile keyboard enthusiast, you might want to explore other options. But for everyone else, the Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard offers a top-notch typing experience that’s hard to beat.