Apple Keyboard

[Spindel]

I've for years used the older aluminium wired apple keyboard (the one that acts as an USB hub with 2 USB ports). Of all the keyboards I've used so far in my life this is the absolute best keyboard.

I know apple don't make them any more, and I'm starting to get scared I won't be able to get a new one when/if this one gives up.

Does anyone know if there is anywhere you can get hold of an new old stock keyboard of this type?

I know the magic keyboard (with numpad) is probably a good keyboard, but I really don't see a need for an wireless keyboard and actually would prefer a keyboard without batteries.

 

[Boyd01]

I've had a number of those keyboards and always loved them, still have one. But they do have some odd issues, one of mine would only work on one port of my MacBook Air, another didn't have that problem. Did some googling at the time and found many people had similar odd problems.

Anyway, I felt the same as you and looked around a bit when I got my new Mini in June. A number of people make look-alikes but the reviews were mixed and I decided against it. Doubt that you will still find new ones anywhere, but who knows?

In the end, I got the new Apple wireless keyboard with the keypad. It's great, nice key travel that reminded me of the old wired keyboard. Dragged the old one back out to compare and I actually prefer the feel of the new wireless one (I'm a fast touch typist). The space grey color also looks great.

I was worried about battery charge too, but it's turned out to be a non-issue. You can just leave it plugged in with the included cable if you prefer. And, as I understand, it actually uses the USB interface when plugged in. Did this for awhile but don't bother anymore, it will run for months without charging. Of course, the downside is that it's more expensive than the wired keyboard was.

 

[rich06]

I'm with you in that I really love the A1242 keyboard (mini USB wired) - I had problems with dropped letters/disconnects with the bluetooth version of the keyboard so I'm happy to stay 'wired' and not have to buy batteries! I also run my mouse off one of the inbuilt USB ports so that's another win for me

Anyway, to answer your question, I don't think the model is available new any more so I bought used from ebay but if you do that then you need to be careful to test all the keys work OK and the keycaps are securely in place, as I bought at least 2 that had defective keys.

 

[Spindel]

I'm with you in that I really love the A1242 keyboard (mini USB wired) - I had problems with dropped letters/disconnects with the bluetooth version of the keyboard so I'm happy to stay 'wired' and not have to buy batteries! I also run my mouse off one of the inbuilt USB ports so that's another win for me

Anyway, to answer your question, I don't think the model is available new any more so I bought used from ebay but if you do that then you need to be careful to test all the keys work OK and the keycaps are securely in place, as I bought at least 2 that had defective keys.

Ebay is a no go for me, I want Scandinavian layout

 

[Boyd01]

so I'm happy to stay 'wired' and not have to buy batteries!

Just to be clear, the current version of the Apple keyboard doesn't have any user-replaceable batteries. That could be either good or bad, depending on your opinion.

FWIW, when I made my other post a little over an hour ago, I realized I hadn't checked the battery charge in over a month (it shows in System Preferences). It was down to 47%, so a charge would probably last me 3 months with my usage. Anway, I plugged it in and it's now back to 100% in around an hour. Never had any problems with bluetooth connection dropping, but it is right next to my 2018 Mini.

 

[TheIntruder]

Ebay is a no go for me, I want Scandinavian layout

That's too bad. There is plenty NOS, as well as service part versions of the US layout on eBay. I got lucky and scored one in shrinkwrap for $25 from craigslist.

I think it's the best keyboard Apple has made since the ADB Extended keyboards.

 

[Prorege1]

Ebay is a no go for me, I want Scandinavian layout

Why not the Keychron K2 keyboard (wired or bluetooth) with Mac & Nordic layout, RGB backlit? I love it ❤️

Keychron K2 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard for Mac and Windows

Keychron K2 is a 75% layout tactile wireless mechanical keyboard giving you all the keys and functions you need while keeping it compact. With the largest battery seen in a mechanical board, Mac layout, connect up to 3 devices, comes with wired cable option, and 15+ types of RGB lighting option.

www.keychron.com