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Apple Wireless Keyboard Kitx$68.00
    (65 reviews)
Best Price: $79.00 $68.00
The Apple Wireless Keyboard has been completely redesigned to feature an elegant, ultra-thin anodized aluminum enclosure with low-profile keys that provide crisp, responsive feel. Use function keys for one-touch access to a quickly access features such as screen brightness, volume, eject, play/pause, fast-forward and rewind, Expose and Dashboard. Its compact design fits on your lap or even the most crowded desk. Bluetooth wireless technology lets you use it just about anywhere within 30 feet. The keyboard automatically powers down when you're not using it and turns on instantly as soon as you start typing. This intelligent power management means you'll get up to nine months of battery life with average usage. It also has an on/off switch for when you're away from your computer for a long time.
MPN: MB167LL/A - UPC: 885909179077
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Customer Reviews
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After a Few Tries: KB from Apple that is Awesome      By A67CR6YCB462C on 2007-10-12
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2BEGPK6PRFBEC Since I was very surprised on getting this, figured it would make good fodder for trying out the new video review feature here.
My prior Apple keyboard was great until it got gunked up with junk and became spongey. This one also appears to have yielded a speed benefit as well. I happened to have tested my speed a week before getting this. On my old keyboard it was 63WPM, on this one, I took the test 3 or 4 times and it was 70WPM (10% better), and my accuracy was higher for whatever reason.
Also, I have been buying wireless since the bloody beginning and even my recent Logitech starts dropping characters when I put it in my lap and the bloody receiver is on the desk directly above it. No such problems with this, since it is bluetooth.
Wonderful BT keyboard that doubles as a work of industrial art      By A2METVF6WV7OZT on 2007-09-30
After a four week wait, I received my Apple wireless bluetooth keyboard (shipped direct from China) a couple of days ago. Without a doubt, it has already become one of my all-time favorite Mac accessories in 20 years of Apple use.
Even if you've seen photos and read stats about its dimensions, that won't prepare you for how compact the keyboard is in person. It is spectacularly thin and minimalistic: if a keyboard could be called "beautiful," then this one is without a doubt a beauty.
Not only does it save an enormous amount of desk real estate, it manages to make the previous Apple keyboards (once upon a time fairly sleek-looking in comparison to other keyboards on the market) look dowdy, bulky and hopelessly outdated.
Much has been made of the lack of a numerical keypad: I see this is as a plus, allowing the keyboard to be highly portable and super small. If you truly need a numerical keypad, the wired version of this keyboard has one.
The tactile quality of the keyboard is great. It takes a while to get used to the different feel the keys -- they are flat rather than slightly concave -- but the overall feel and usability are an improvement.
The unit pairs up with your Mac seamlessly and there is no delay or lagtime in typing; the keyboars also wakes seamlessly from sleep at the touch of any key.
In short, I see no downside: it looks great, is stunningly thin and sleek, eliminates wire clutter, works wonderfully, and saves a lot of desk space. I can recommend it without reservation to anyone looking for a wireless keyboard.
Kudos, Apple, on an incredible job updating an everyday appliance most of us took for granted in such an elegant way that it doubles as a functional object of industrial art.
With a Great Keyboard Comes Great Responsibility      By A2YHVI2TGJ4ZZG on 2008-02-13
The wafer-thin Apple Wireless Keyboard is aesthetically perfect and eminently usable, though it has a few minor flaws.
Visually, it exhibits a poetic, tasteful minimalism. It is surprisingly thin, and its unitary construction and brushed metallic finish project an air of solidity. Unlike other keyboards, the Apple Wireless Keyboard does not try to impress with garish, shameless decoration. Rather, its unadorned, utilitarian exterior suggests that this is a serious keyboard, for serious-minded people.
The feel and sound of the Apple Wireless Keyboard match its visual perfection. When pressed, the keys hit bottom with a satisfying finality (I have always detested those keyboards whose keys gently ease into the 'pressed' position without any tactile feedback). Typing on this keyboard produces a gentle clicking sound. It is not a grating, full-blown clatter, but more of a muted staccato.
The Apple keyboard is excellent from a functional standpoint as well. It does not exhibit the lag that can be so aggravating when typing on RF keyboards. It maintains a strong, persistent Bluetooth connection, and has a long battery life.
One of its most convenient features is the lack of inaccessible gaps between the keys. Not only is this aesthetically appealing, but it also prevents hairs, skin flakes, dust, and other types of nauseating detritus from accumulating inside the keyboard. This feature is indispensable for those of you who eat at your computers; no longer will your keyboard serve as a receptacle for the remnants of long-forgotten meals.
The Apple Wireless Keyboard does suffer from a few trifling imperfections, however. First, it does not have a dedicated 'delete' key. To trigger 'delete', one must hold down 'fn' and press 'backspace'. For those who use 'delete' often, this may be a problem. I have gotten used to it, but not so used to it that I don't occasionally lie awake at night wishing that my keyboard had a 'delete' key.
Second, the arrow keys are very narrow. This is not a huge problem for 'left' and 'right', but 'up' and 'down' are so close to each other that it is easy to accidentally hit the wrong one when in a hurry. People with ungainly sausage-fingers and people who drink too much coffee may be particularly susceptible.
Finally, the 'Caps Lock' key does not engage right away. Apple has incorporated a feature called "Caps Lock Protection" that is intended to minimize the inconvenience caused by accidentally hitting the 'Caps Lock' key. As a result, 'Caps Lock' will engage only if pressed slowly and deliberately.
For most people, Caps Lock Protection will probably be helpful (although it still seems vaguely paternalistic in its assumption that your keyboard knows what keys you want to press better than you do). However, for those who prefer to use 'Caps Lock' as an alternative 'Command' or 'Control' key, it may be somewhat inconvenient. It irks me that Apple chose to hard-wire this feature directly into the keyboard. It could just as easily have been implemented at the software level with an option to disable Caps Lock Protection and restore the once-proud 'Caps Lock' key to its former glory.
In conclusion, I recommend this keyboard to all people of good character and sober judgment. Use it wisely, for with a great keyboard comes great responsibility.
Works with Windows Vista!      By A1D0RXVGJFFQK2 on 2007-10-15
I'm a Windows user that likes Apple's design aesthetic.
This keyboard works fine out of box with Windows Vista on my Lenovo laptop. It pairs successfully with the built in Bluetooth device - and requires no special drivers.
I've since learnt that I do miss key buttons they've left out. Home, End, PgUp, PgDn and Delete are what I miss! I've used an advanced program - AutoHotKey to program Win+Key alternates for these missing buttons.
I now, like this keyboard :) but it's not for everyone who runs Windows.
I can't believe the good review for this terrible keyboard      By A270NEK62DX16 on 2007-11-23
When I saw photos of this keyboard prior to release, I was almost drooling with anticipation. The design looked elegant, beautiful, and compact. And there's no number keypad! Awesome! I never, ever use the number keypad, and the extra distance to my mouse just adds strain to my wrist. I currently have an old Logitech wireless keyboard with a detachable number pad. I detached it and threw it away. But I wanted a real Apple keyboard with all the correct key mappings, etc., so I bought the new Apple wireless keyboard almost as soon as it was released. I had expected something with the feel of my MacBook Pro. Nope. Anyone remember IPM's PC jr from the 80's? It had what was called a "chicklet" keyboard at the time. Rubber keys with very bad action, difficult to tell if the the key was pressed by feel alone. Very awkward and flimsy feeling. In short, a usability nightmare. IBM was mocked and shamed into replacing the keyboard.
Apple decided to resurrect this design mistake for 2007. It's terrible. It feels terrible. It doesn't even feel like a keyboard to me. After hours trying to use it, I was typing at half the speed I normally do and my hands and wrists hurt. It looks beautiful, so I wanted to keep it, but I had to admit that it was garbage, so I returned it. I'll wait for the next version. They'll probably wise up. If you value usability over aesthetics at all, avoid this keyboard like the plague.
- Exactly What I've been Waiting For!
     By A35RFH5GSZYGG8 on 2007-10-16
I've been waiting for a while for apple to make a wireless keyboard WITHOUT the numerical keypad. This allows you too keep either your mouse or drawing tablet close to the keyboard, and allows me to use minimal space while working with lots of papers or books.
However, I didn't expect it to be this awesome. Like all apple devices, its wrapped like godiva chocolates and opeing it gets rid of any sense of buyers remorse, along with the shere brilliance of its design and quality. It is so thin and slightly raised so that it feels like your typing on the desk. Its so small, compact thin and light, but feels tight and industructable. My hands never get tired, and i can finally use photoshop and illustrator more effectly by using the keyboard and tablet at the same time.
Also, I often hook my 17 macbook pro to my projector with the computer in the office next door and a dvi cable leading to the projector. The keyboard maintains its full signal from a distance around a doorway and has no delay from 15 feet. I now can have a 120" monitor at home with the computer far away. The keys have a perfect feel and are nicer than the laptop keys in clickyness and feel.
I have only one complaint that for 80 bucks, they could have lit the keyboard like on the macbook pros. But then they might have had to make it thicker, which would have been a bad tradeoff. The keyboard also comes with expensive top end energizer batteries, a nice touch.
If your thinking about getting this keyboard, stop thinking and get it. Seriously!
P.S. Like all apple wireless devices, make sure to set the device as a favorite under bluetooth settings, it gives them priority and makes them work their fastest. Also, if you turn your mouse or keyboard off for a while and then on, just click a key or mouse button untill the secure signal re-establishes itself. Some people think you have to repair the devices, that is untrue.
- It's OK
     By ACSX5AIZE3MJ9 on 2007-12-05
I have a macbook pro. I had the older wireless keyboard and mouse so I hooked it up to an external monitor and used it as a desktop computer in my office.
I got the new keyboard because the old apple keyboards get dirty so quickly (if you have one you know what I mean since it collects all dirt and food etc and proudly displays it through the transparent parts. I also hated the squishy feel of the old keyboards.
This keyboard looks like it's more protected and won't get dirty as quickly. It also feels like it's a lot higher in quality.
I hated it when I first got it because it felt like I wouldn't get used to it.
I really like it now after a few days, as I prefer shorter keystrokes and I got used to it a lot more easily than I thought I would. Actually I prefer it to the old one.
I really wanted a wireless keyboard but I do miss a few buttons, particularly the delete forward key. I know I can use Fn Delete (Fn down for page down, etc) but I don't like having to use Fn combos. It forced me to go in the preferences and turn off the F1-F12 shortcuts (sound and play and dimness). They could have made it a tiny bit bigger and not have to use Fn combos maybe.
So final words: Not ideal but good enough.
- Think this through, mini users...
     By A31UH4W1EVFGVN on 2008-02-12
First, this keyboard looks great and has a good feel. In terms of aesthetics, it cannot be beat. And that is worth something for sure - we make almost all our choices partially on aesthetics.
For a Mini owner, however, this keyboard has two failures. One, which seems oft-mentioned, is the lack of a numeric keypad and other good stuff on the right. As an engineer, a numeric keypad is not optional.
Secondly, I do not believe the wireless version has the USB ports. Which means that if you have a wired mouse, an iPod dock and a camera interface, something has to give. That extra USB port means more than you might think.
So overall, looks good, works good, but the wired keyboard with numeric keypad and USB ports is the better bet. I would give the wired version 4 to 5 stars.
- Excellent ergonomics!
     By AU5V90NU1ON6O on 2008-01-09
This is by far the best keyboard I have ever had. I have used various Logitech and other keyboards (incl: Logitech diNovo Media Desktop Laser & Logitech Cordless Desktop Comfort Laser, the previous Apple Wireless Pro Keyboard, etc), but none of them have matched the ergonomics of this simple, light piece of art.
The best part is the fact that there is no wasted space. In particular, there is no navigation and numeric keypad on the right hand side; this allows you to bring the mouse closer to the keyboard, and thus position the "usable" part of your keyboard -- in this case, the entire keyboard -- directly in front of your screen. As far as the lacking keys:
- I never use the numeric keypad anyway - so I loved the diNovo layout as well (its main problem is the space wasted around the edges of the keyboard).
- It does have arrow keys in the lower hand right corner, below the shift key. These double as [PageUp], [PageDown], [Home] and [End] with the simultaneous press of the [Fn] key in the lower left corner.
I would actually have preferred the wired version (with the 2 USB out ports, as with the wired Apple Keyboard Kit) - if not for the extra size used for the navigation/numeric keypads on the right.
Despite the small size of the keyboard as a whole, the keys themselves are as large as a regular keyboard (specifically, the same size/distance between as my Logitech diNovo). Also, they are light on the touch, and IMO even more comfortable.
The only downsides I find with this keyboard:
- The extra [Fn] key on the lower left side takes a bit getting used to; you'll initially hit it when you mean to hit the [Ctrl] key. (This is not a problem if you are already used to the MacBook/MacBook Pro layout, as they are identical).
- [PgUp], [PgDown], [Home] and [End] (again, like the MB/MBP) are achieved only via dual keypresses.
- It is not available in a "Split" layout version (like, say the Logitech Comfort line). However, as I already said, the overall ergonomics are excellent.
- An Outstanding Bluetooth Keyboard!
     By A1J7A7ERBKW2SB on 2008-09-22
This is, by a wide margin, the best bluetooth keyboard I've ever used. I used to work for the business division of a major electronics chain where I've used and sold many wireless keyboards. I can honestly say that this keyboard outshines many of its competitors.
First, the small design is a definite plus, not a flaw. I have big hands and I was a bit worried that it would feel small and cramped, but my worries were proven false. It's a lot more durable than it looks, too. The keys feel strong, crisp, and responsive, and they don't get all loose and noisy over time like most keyboards do. For some reason other brands (like MS) seem to think that their keyboard isn't worthwhile unless it takes up as much desk real estate as possible, which just isn't practical. Just make sure you know what you're getting - take a good look at what keys are and aren't present. If you're trying to write code or do lots of calculations, this probably isn't your keyboard.
Secondly, the battery life is amazing. I bought this back in May 08. Today is September 22 and I only just replaced (today) the first set of batteries. I do regular internet stuff, plus a casual amount of gaming. I also never actually turn the thing off.
Lastly, the bluetooth connectivity is very strong and resilient. I have never lost a connection after 5 months of use - it's never even missed a single keystroke. Plus, Software Update actually updates the firmware ON THE KEYBOARD ITSELF, ensuring maximum product performance and use. This alone is a major plus!
Something to note - this keyboard does indeed work with Windows via bootcamp and Parallels (I use both). I paired the keyboard securely with Mac OS, but if you plan to use bootcamp you might have to pair it without a security key in Windows. Since I use Mac OS for anything critical, this is a non-issue for me. The keyboard automatically just connects and starts working with either OS. You could just as easily make Windows the secure connection. I haven't tried this, but I'd imagine that if you securely pair the keyboard in both OS's, you'd have to re-pair it each time you switch. In Parallels, however, it works right away without any additional setup.
This is a strong, practical, durable product. Now if only they could redesign that darn mouse...
- BT loses connection with VMWare
     By AJ3GDQAWO0AAI on 2008-03-02
This keyboard is pretty great. It takes a while to get used to... I have an iMac at home and a IBM Thinkpad at work. I prefer Thinkpad keys, but are getting used to the new Apple keyboard without any problem. No difference really with the extended wired keyboard that comes with the new imac in terms of feel.
The size makes it great to use instead of the wired keyboard. Of course, with the wired keyboard, you also would have 2 extra USB ports...
The only problem I have is when you use VMWare to run Vista, I tend to lose connections with both the wireless keyboard and mouse (both bluetooth). This problem doesn't go away when you quite VMWare. I have to plug in the wired keyboard and mouse to continue. A bit of annoyance, but won't be a problem if you don't use VMWare to run Windows.
Hope this helps.
- Good keyboard, BUT ...
     By A92X5GHAFPH9T on 2008-05-31
I bought the keyboard a week ago. I had no problem pairing it with the computer, and the keyboard was a pleasure to use (no keystroke delays, etc.) HOWEVER, every few days, somehow the keyboard would not be discoverable from my MacBook Pro when I would start my day, causing me to troubleshoot and add it again to the list of paired devices on the computer. Just today I spent 15 minutes in the morning doing this, when I wanted to get going with the work, so I returned the keyboard to Apple and got a wired one. This is not really Apple's fault, as the keyboard is aesthetically and functionally very pleasing, but Bluetooth is just not as reliable as a physically connected device. So, if you don't mind spending time troubleshooting every now and then, get this keyboard, otherwise get the wired keyboard, which is as much of a pleasure to use.
- works well & looks beautiful. a rarity.
     By AK4HKI46S49NA on 2008-06-29
after a few month's use, here is my impression:
(+) seamless syncing with Leopard / Tiger / Vista.
(+) beautiful industrial design. very durable (dropped a few times with no hiccups).
(+) works great. excellent tactile feedback. feel really nice under your fingers. actually better than Macbook & Macbook Pro keyboard in my opinion.
(+) very small (same layout/size as Macbook). save space on your desk.
(+) no problem with lack of numerical keypad. no use for it anyway unless you're an accountant.
this is a very nice keyboard, much better than the others that I have been using. wireless bluetooth connectivity is very nice.
- Yes!! It does work with Windows Vista!!
     By A1V57WS6XWDV88 on 2008-07-08
I had bought this keyboard several weeks ago but hadn't opened it because I wasn't sure if it would work on a PC. After searching the reviews and forums I still wasn't that sure. I found a couple of posts saying it would but I thought I'd find a lot more people talking about it. I finally decided to just give it a try. I put in the batteries, turned it on and selected "add a new bluetooth device" from the Windows Vista taskbar. It was instantly able to see it, create a passcode for it and once I entered that same passcode and pressed enter on the keyboard, Vista installed the software automatically, then I was off typing. As far as the keyboard itself goes, I agree with almost all of the other reviewers, it's awesome!!
- My favorite keyboard ever
     By A3P55RCCFPC0GV on 2007-12-06
I bought one for my iMac a few weeks ago, and now I'm buying another for my MacBook Pro. Most of all, I like the compact size and Apple's confident decision to leave off the annoying numeric keypad and other keys that would keep me from putting my mouse right where it belongs, within easy reach. Keep it up, Apple! Don't give in to the whiners who insist on bloated keyboards that monopolize your desk space. They can always buy the wired keyboard, after all.
Apart from the compact size, I also like the design and tactile performance. I can type fast and accurately, with less fatigue than the older Apple keyboard designs.
- Apple Wireless Keyboard [It's not a Kit]
     By A2RRBAPBPUFSXN on 2007-12-12
Absolutely no problem setting up and using the keyboard. However, it takes some time to get use to. The absence of and keys were found to be very annoying, as were the total lack of any documentation. The key can be used along with the key to delete to the right. The rest remains a mystery until you stumble on to something by accident, but that's Apple's way!
- Not Worth the Money
     By A2IEMOLWF9A6KG on 2007-12-26
I am typing this review on the new Apple Wireless BT Keyboard. I am not impressed by this keyboard. I have called Apple 3 times to get help with it. Each time I would get it to pair then it would loss connection with the Mac desktop. Finally after the 3rd call some one was able to help me get it connected. This has been the longest amount of time that it stayed connected.
I would say it is cramped typing on it, but it would be a great keyboard for some one that is a traveler, but for desktop it is not worth spending the money! I will be going back to the keyboard that came with my Mac.
- Elegant, useful, nice spring to the keys
     By A3J01CV4XJ5V0A on 2008-08-16
I am a new Mac Mini user and wanted a wireless solution that doesn't steal a USB port. I was happy to note that this was Bluetooth connective device, so my choice was an easy one. Upon unpackaging, the instructions gave straightforward direction on the device's battery requirements, which are modest.
I've owned dozens of keyboards in my lifetime and this is easily one of my favorites. It seems resistant to keyboard crumbs and looks great on the desk. Connecting to my Mac was a snap.
Of course, you could get a cheaper wire keyboard for a fraction of the price, but as something I use every day for hours, I rate this little luxury very high in actual utility. Highly recommended for that alone. My only caveat is for people who prefer L A R G E keyboards. If you have chubby fingers or prefer ergonomic keyboards, you should test drive one at your local Apple Store before buying.
- Great wireless keyboard from Apple
     By A1S27P7KJO9I96 on 2007-10-30
I love this new keyboard! I had the wired keyboard with my new iMac 24" aluminum simply because it was going to take so darn long to get the wireless one. I liked the size of the wired one, so it is kind of weird to be typing on such a small board. It is exactly the size/ and shape of a laptop keyboard. No difference whatsoever. So, for me working on a desktop forever, it feels a bit odd. But I'm getting used to it, and I do like it quite a bit. No problems. Great distance for moving from one location to another. Just a very nice addition/ upgrade from Apple to go with the new iMac. If I could change one thing... I'd have done the keys BLACK and not white. If you want to move away from the white Apple... then just do it! Enjoy!!!
- too small for large hands
     By A2463YGQ90DA84 on 2008-02-16
This keyboard is compact, a little too compact. My large hands simply cannot adapt to its miniscule nature! Enlarge it a bit and it would be great for us bigger handed folks.
- Fantastic Keyboard
     By A2G59D9NDKNZVQ on 2008-07-13
Yes I've gone Mac, and I went all the way! I purchased the Mac Mini and after exhaustive research came to the conclusion that it was only fitting that I purchased the keyboard. Absolutely no regrets it is so easy to use has the right touch it's a masterpiece of craftsmanship love the white keys when you're typing only by the light of your monitor.
I'm using it to type this review. So far everything i've read and was told in this venture into the Mac world and way of doing things has proven to be one of the best things in our world of technology that i've ever experienced!!
Try a Mac soon you will see! Amazon's fast and easy shipping made it all worth while to boot!
As i said no regrets!!
- My favorite desktop keyboard
     By A2ZPE3MVUSG14F on 2008-07-16
I received this keyboard as a gift to replace the old white Apple USB Keyboard that came with my 2006 iMac, and I've got to tell you, I was overjoyed to get it! My old Apple USB Keyboard had become gummy and difficult to type on, even after key removal/cleaning and using a silicone-based lubricant on each of the keys.
Thoughts:
(1) My fingers kept sliding off of the proper keys for a while when I first got it; the keys themselves are flat and lacking in the depressions common to other keyboards. After a few days, I got used to this, though, so it hasn't been a problem since.
(2) The travel distance of the keys is everything that you would expect from a desktop keyboard based on one from a laptop. Keys are quick to respond, and for me at least, they make typing a breeze. I shudder when I have to use long-throw keyboards on other computers.
(3) As with many of the devices that Apple sells, this keyboard is great to look at. I particularly appreciate the way that the AA battery chamber is used to prop up the keyboard at a comfortable typing angle.
(4) Paired with my iMac (in both OS X and Windows XP), this keyboard has no discernible lag time between when a key is pressed and when it registers on the screen. Also, it works well even from across the room (unlike some Bluetooth input devices).
(5) This keyboard is small enough to be used with a portable device like a Nokia 770 Internet Tablet. I paired it with my 770 running OS2006 (I think), and it worked just fine. It was not easily recognized by OS2007 (Hacker Edition), however.
(6) In Windows XP, I used to have a problem where the keyboard would freeze (that is, no longer transmit user input to the computer) if I (accidentally) engaged the caps lock key. This wasn't a huge deal to me because I almost never use caps lock for anything, and after an Windows update, the problem went away.
(7) Battery life seems to be fine to me. I have a set of quickly-recharging Ni-MH Energizer AAs that I use, and I really can't complain. I can't remember the last time that I charged the batteries.
(8) My biggest complaint with this keyboard is actually quite minor: the small picture on the F3 key is intended to indicate that when pressed, this button will activate the Exposé mode that shows you all of the current windows in the Space. However, to my mind, the button bears a decidedly striking resemblance to how my *Dashboard* looks when invoked, so whenever I stop and think about which button to press, I almost always hit F3 instead of F4 to trigger my dashboard. I am fully aware that I have complete control in remapping this key so that it makes sense to me, but for some reason, I've never decided to do that.
I would recommend this keyboard to anyone who enjoys typing on laptop keyboards. If you're considering a migration away from a IBM M-series keyboard, this one may not be for you. ;)
- Best keyboard money can buy.
     By A53APH6WYJ5ST on 2008-07-26
This is hands down the most comfortable wireless keyboard ever. It looks beautiful, it's simple, and it works flawlessly. It also has great battery life. In other words, it's perfect! But you will have to pay for perfection. The $80 price tag is pretty steep, but worth the freedom that this keyboard gives you.
- Good stuff
     By A36NKTAEESGJAE on 2008-09-28
I've been using the Logitech S530 pair for several years. I bought one right after getting my first MacBook Pro. I use my notebook as a desktop replacement at the office (working in a Winder$ environment) and don't like the MBP's keyboard -- the touch isn't right my my typing.
I bought one of these wireless keyboards after seeing a colleague use one. It was small, sleek, and provided a better touch than the built-in keyboard on my MacBook Pro. The clincher for me was that the keyboard is small enough to stow in my backpack to take with me to the office or when traveling. As I said, I really don't care for the touch of the MBP's keyboard, so that is a boon.
The keyboard is what I expect from a keyboard. The keystroke is long enough to provide positive feedback but not so long as to slow me down. The tactile response is good. The keyboard stays in place and is angled about right for me. While not heavy, it is substantial and feels solid -- like it will last a long time. The keys feel pretty good and the home row is easy to find thanks to the raised bars on the "F" and "J" keys. (My fingers naturally look for those touch points.)
When first connected to my MBP, the system-updater downloaded and installed a firmware upgrade to the keyboard. I like how that works.
The function keys take a little getting used to. By default, they operate the various functions of the computer -- screen brightness, dashboard, iTunes playback, and so forth. Access the the function keys requires pressing the "Fn" key. (Don't tempt me to pun on that!) This behavior (use of the Fn key) is changeable in system preferences.
We'll have to see about reliability, but I expect this keyboard to last quite awhile. I use a keyboard almost constantly, both at work and play, so my equipment gets a lot of use.
If you're looking for what appears to be a high-quality keyboard that is Bluetooth wireless, small enough to carry in your backpack, and has a good touch, then you should try the Apple Wireless Aluminum keyboard. I'm very pleased with mine, especially when working with the MBP remotely.
- Apple Wieless Keyboard
     By AZ3O9T3PN9Y7 on 2007-12-02
This keyboard is simply amazing. Its looks is very nice, keys are very soft and wireless works without any problem. I recomend.
- Great
     By A1HC03KTPM6E5D on 2008-03-15
Works well, pairs quickly and easily with most things. Nice to type on, good feedback, and sturdy enough to carry around.
I was unable to pair with a Windows XP machine (at work) though. Apparently there is a long standing issue with Apple Bluetooth and WinXP. Worked fine under Mac and Linux though.
- Sooo comfortable
     By A39O4B6IUNYTT8 on 2008-05-07
I switched to the mac in October 2007 (best decision of my life!!), and I got this keyboard.
I was worried that I wouldn't like it. In the past, I've used an armrest, and this is so low to the desk, you can't really use an armrest.
I LOVE THIS KEYBOARD!!! It is such a pleasure to type on, and my typing speed has noticeably improved.
- Great Keyboard
     By A3MI17YB5FGIWA on 2008-05-10
I recently purchased this keyboard to use along with my macbook after my previous Logitech keyboard started to go haywire. The designers at Apple have really outdone themselves with this keyboard-it is gorgeous. The setup was extremely easy, my macbook recognized the keyboard right away. One major benefit to this particular keyboard is its size. For those of us with limited desk space it is a blessing. I now have plenty of space for my mouse now that the Logitech is gone. The small size of the keyboard might take a little getting used to for people familiar with full-size keyboards. This was not the case for me as I a used to writing on my macbook. THe tactile response to the keys is great. Unlike most other keyboards, typing on this is relative quiet. There are no thick plastic keys to clatter around. This is a HUGE improvement from the old apple keyboards, which would appear filthy almost instantly. No more gaps between the keys to get junk in. I highly recommend this keyboard, especially for laptops. The wireless bluetooth connectivity is unbeatable. Great job Apple!
- Really like it
     By A22ME4HA99DCWP on 2008-05-27
I really like this keyboard. I use it on a MacAir, which has only ONE usb port. So, having the keyboard bluetooth allows for always having it connected without cables. Set-up is a breeze (at least on a Mac). Battery consumption is very low.
However, since it isn't a perfect world ... I've noticed that sometimes the 'caps lock' indicator light is erratic.
- Great keyboard design
     By A2G9ZSF7EH8DQT on 2008-07-19
Incredibly compact, easy to setup and solidly built.
I use this keyboard with my MacBook and it's great. It has the most "solid" feel of any keyboard I've ever used and the very short stroke (keypress depth) makes typing fast easier. Just a great product.
Only two minor issues: the white keys are obviously going to get dirty faster than my laptop's black keyboard (I wish there was a black version of this keyboard) and they changed the order of the special function keys from the Macbook (plus eliminated a few like being able to use the F8 key for the Spaces utility.)
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Apple Wireless Keyboard Kit Accessories
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| Product Features |
- Ultra-thin design
- Anodized aluminum enclosure
- Low profile keys
- Use function keys for one-touch access
- Bluetooth wireless technology
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