Unpopular Opinion: The Apple Magic Keyboard is almost perfect!

[GooseInTheCaboose]

I have tried bluetooth keyboards by Logitech, and even fancy mechanical keyboards made by Epomaker.

I have come to the conclusion that I *strongly* prefer Apple's Magic Keyboard.

Third party keyboards keys never quite work the way you would expect for Apple Studio Display brightness or stage manager configurations, and they are unreliable. None of them have Touch ID and for me, the ergonomics of mechanical keyboards don't work out because those keyboards are wayyy too fat/thick for my hands.

I love the Touch ID and that the brightness and iTunes playback and find/siri keys all just WORK. It is slim and nice looking. They key-travel is just right and even the noise is nice. Solid metal construction, beautiful apple white plastic.

My one and only complaint is that it does not have backlighting. This gripe is minor however and there are few circumstances where the display does not illuminate the keys anyway...

I don't understand the desire for any other keyboard as long as there is the need/desire for Touch ID and convenient controls for a display, sound etc..

It is unfortunate Apple did not add backlights to these keyboards, or make versions with backlights as an option. If it did I think they would have the best keyboard out there. Period. Hands down.

 

[MacGizmo]

They’re pleasant to use, but I don’t believe they’re exceptionally great. Initially, when I transitioned from Apple’s Touch ID keyboard to a Logitech Mechanical keyboard, I missed the Touch ID feature. However, it didn’t take me long to realize that I don’t actually use it frequently. And with the built-in Passwords app, I would use it even less.

The backlighting functionality is a big deal, so I can see why it's something that bothers you. I didn't think it was a big deal when I was using the Apple keyboard, but now that I actually have backlighting, I can't imagine using a keyboard without it.

In the end though, I just prefer the mechanical keyboard's "clicky" feel than the virtually flat Apple KB with no "response" when typing.

 

[xraydoc]

Apple's keyboards are really great for a low-profile keyboard. But honestly far inferior in terms of feel and sound as compared with some of my higher-end and customized mechanical keyboards (tweaked switches, stabilizers, case foam, etc). I can type far faster on the mechanicals than I can on the Apple Magic Keyboard. Same goes for my HHKB Topre keyboard. I don't mean to be a keyboard snob, but I don't consider Epomaker in the "fancy" realm (at least not without some modifications).

No issues at all programming my mechanical keyboards to activate things like Mission Control, brightness & volume controls, etc. My boards are VIA and/or Vial compatible, so I can remap keys at will or add macros to activate any functions I need.

I will agree that price-performance ratio with mechanical keyboards can be poor. I do have a couple of keyboards that I have up to $450 each invested in (between the keyboard, switches, keycaps, stabs, lubrication, misc parts, etc.).

 

[frou]

It can't be perfect because it's not designed for human hands. Hold up your hands in front of you. Do they look like the optimal design for them is a straight line rectangle?

 

[GooseInTheCaboose]

Apple's keyboards are really great for a low-profile keyboard. But honestly far inferior in terms of feel and sound as compared with some of my higher-end and customized mechanical keyboards (tweaked switches, stabilizers, case foam, etc). I can type far faster on the mechanicals than I can on the Apple Magic Keyboard. Same goes for my HHKB Topre keyboard. I don't mean to be a keyboard snob, but I don't consider Epomaker in the "fancy" realm (at least not without some modifications).

No issues at all programming my mechanical keyboards to activate things like Mission Control, brightness & volume controls, etc. My boards are VIA and/or Vial compatible, so I can remap keys at will or add macros to activate any functions I need.

I will agree that price-performance ratio with mechanical keyboards can be poor. I do have a couple of keyboards that I have up to $450 each invested in (between the keyboard, switches, keycaps, stabs, lubrication, misc parts, etc.).

oh lol...well..I guess I should clarify, I have never really used anything else. I used the older Magic Keyboard throughout most of my adult years. I recently tried the Epomaker TH80 to see what all the fuss was about with these mechanical keyboards and it just felt bulky in comparison and, for me, a PITA to set up. I tried a Logitech bluetooth keyboard when my apple Magic Keyboard seemed to basically die but the feel was no different than the apple one, maybe a little more key room and musher but... So after those 2 I decided to get a third keyboard and buy the new version of the Magic Keyboard lol, I much appreciate the Touch ID.

And mech keyboards seem so bulky in comparison. Desk space is valuable. For me, I dunno...the Apple one seems a very good fit.

I don't *need* to type super fast, it is probably better if I think over my words anyway lol

 

[Seiko4169]

No back light means I hardly use Apple's keyboard. Shame as it's a nice typing experience.

 

[xraydoc]

oh lol...well..I guess I should clarify, I have never really used anything else. I used the older Magic Keyboard throughout most of my adult years. I recently tried the Epomaker TH80 to see what all the fuss was about with these mechanical keyboards and it just felt bulky in comparison and, for me, a PITA to set up. I tried a Logitech bluetooth keyboard when my apple Magic Keyboard seemed to basically die but the feel was no different than the apple one, maybe a little more key room and musher but... So after those 2 I decided to get a third keyboard and buy the new version of the Magic Keyboard lol, I much appreciate the Touch ID.

And mech keyboards seem so bulky in comparison. Desk space is valuable. For me, I dunno...the Apple one seems a very good fit.

I don't *need* to type super fast, it is probably better if I think over my words anyway lol

Understood.
My current mechanical... space-efficient and a joy to type on.

 

[kamikazeeMC]

I also like the Magic keyboard, its low profile and having Touch ID has been great. Granted, when I had a Windows PC and using Firefox with Bitwarden, I only entered my password on startup. But since I got the Air, I went full send into the ecosystem, I would need to enter my password each time with Passwords if I didn’t have Touch ID.

I dug out my Tofu65 (been about 9 months since I used), it felt great taking it out and the sound was nice to hear again, but didn’t enjoy the extra height without a wrist rest. I can type the same speed on both. Can the Apple F key shortcuts be set in VIA? I didn’t feel like installing Chrome to test.

 

[smirking]

Keyboards are a highly personal preference. Don't let any keyboard snobs rain on your parade.

If you like it and think it's the best, that's all that matters. It's the best.

There is no keyboard that is perfect for everyone because people have different size bodies, working environments, physical habits, and neurological systems. The most ergonomic keyboard for me might actually be anything but for you.

 

[RUQRU]

I have tried bluetooth keyboards by Logitech, and even fancy mechanical keyboards made by Epomaker.

I have come to the conclusion that I *strongly* prefer Apple's Magic Keyboard.

Third party keyboards keys never quite work the way you would expect for Apple Studio Display brightness or stage manager configurations, and they are unreliable. None of them have Touch ID and for me, the ergonomics of mechanical keyboards don't work out because those keyboards are wayyy too fat/thick for my hands.

I love the Touch ID and that the brightness and iTunes playback and find/siri keys all just WORK. It is slim and nice looking. They key-travel is just right and even the noise is nice. Solid metal construction, beautiful apple white plastic.

My one and only complaint is that it does not have backlighting. This gripe is minor however and there are few circumstances where the display does not illuminate the keys anyway...

I don't understand the desire for any other keyboard as long as there is the need/desire for Touch ID and convenient controls for a display, sound etc..

It is unfortunate Apple did not add backlights to these keyboards, or make versions with backlights as an option. If it did I think they would have the best keyboard out there. Period. Hands down.

I agree as I just replaced my Lightning version with the the USB-C variant with numeric keyboard. I had to replace the old one because the black paint on the keycaps was peeling off.

On the new one I immediately installed a silicone skin that also had black keys so at glance you would not notice there is a skin on it. This way I can protect the balck keycaps from turning white. Apple will not replace these damaged keyboards as they claim is it cosmetic and not a functional issue.

NOTE: If you do want to put a skin on your Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad (A3119) make sure it is for the A3119 which is the UBB-C version with four keys left of the spacebar. The old lightening version had three keys to the left.

 

[Ifti]

Im with the OP on this one - love my magic keyboard. I generally prefer working on laptop style keyboards and the magic keyboard is a joy to use. In fact Ive always used one with my laptop, as I can have the screen further back on my desk and move the keyboard to where its more comfortable for me. Just sold my laptop nice and quick, with absolutely no glossy keys lol. Will be using teh magic keyboard with my new Mac Studio setup instead.

I also wish it had a backlight, but I intend to place a screenbar light on my studio display to light the desk.
All of my accessories are lightning, and I'd love to replace them all with USB variants so I can finally get rid of lightning altogether, but I'm not prepared to outlay that cost just because of the port!

 

[Cape Dave]

No backlight is like a kick in the balls! Thanks, Apple! I would not go near this keyboard for any reason ever even if it were the last keyboard on earth. This is effing 2025, Apple!

 

[Easttime]

After my horrifying experience with the keyboard on the 2016 MacBook Pro (couldn't type on it for 15 minutes), I was uneasy about buying the new Magic Keyboard when I upgraded my Mac mini to the M4. But I wanted Touch ID so I went for it. So glad I did, for all the same reasons as OP. And, no problems typing on it either. Phew.

 

[JohnC1959]

Glad I found this thread. I was considering getting a magic keyboard for my desktop setup but I absolutely need backlighting. In the evening I use an over monitor light that lights up much of my keyboard that sits on a keyboard tray but the desk casts a shadow over the top one or two rows of the keyboard.

 

[seggy]

"even fancy mechanical keyboards made by Epomaker"

oh dear 😂

 

[shadowboi]

-

 

[Cape Dave]

Glad I found this thread. I was considering getting a magic keyboard for my desktop setup but I absolutely need backlighting. In the evening I use an over monitor light that lights up much of my keyboard that sits on a keyboard tray but the desk casts a shadow over the top one or two rows of the keyboard.

I mean, my MacBook Air has backlighting. I wonder how much it costs the idiots at Apple to REMOVE the backlighting before they sell it to all the suckers? Absolutely PATHETIC on Apple's part. It is 2025. Every single half decent keyboard in the world has backlighting. Thanks, Apple!

 

[JohnC1959]

I mean, my MacBook Air has backlighting. I wonder how much it costs the idiots at Apple to REMOVE the backlighting before they sell it to all the suckers? Absolutely PATHETIC on Apple's part. It is 2025. Every single half decent keyboard in the world has backlighting. Thanks, Apple!

yeah, that's exactly why I assumed it did. I too have the MacBook air. I have a good Logitech keyboard, but I wanted the touch ID and I had gotten used to the Air's keyboard so I figured one for my desk setup would be good. But no go.

 

[seggy]

yeah, that's exactly why I assumed it did. I too have the MacBook air. I have a good Logitech keyboard, but I wanted the touch ID and I had gotten used to the Air's keyboard so I figured one for my desk setup would be good. But no go.

The Magic keyboard is garbage for a few reasons, but mostly just the typing experience. I am sorely tempted to use them for the Touch ID though... but I know I'll regret it no more than a week in and I'd have wasted thousands in the process ('cos multiple Macs), because I don't get Stockholm Syndrome. So as long as Apple still refuses to provide modern auth except expressly on their terms, I'll have my password on autopilot typing I guess.

In this case it is definitely better if you don't know any better. Such as someone who compares a "fancy" $50 mech to a >$100 scissor membrane.

 

[richpjr]

I have been tempted several times to pick one up, mostly for TouchID but in the end the price, lack of back lighting and price led to the Logitech MX Keys S. Easy to type on, backlit and a bonus I never thought I'd use much but end up using all the time - support for multiple devices. Currently use it mainly for my Mac Studio, but also for my company MBP and my iPad Pro. Switching devices with a tap of a key is an amazing shortcut.

 

[drrich2]

I can type far faster on the mechanicals than I can on the Apple Magic Keyboard.

Why is that? The Magic Keyboard has shallow key depression; seems like the time to depress and move on ought to be slightly faster.

 

[xraydoc]

Why is that? The Magic Keyboard has shallow key depression; seems like the time to depress and move on ought to be slightly faster.

🤷‍♂️ I guess there’s more to it than that.

 

[drrich2]

🤷‍♂️ I guess there’s more to it than that.

Apparently so, and that got me curious. I'm a casual computer user and thus a casual types, though I do touch type, not 'hunt and peck.' I wouldn't expect the difference between, oh, say, membrane (short key press depth) and mechanical (often greater) keyboard typing speeds to be great, but logically (in the context of my limited knowledge on it) the basics would seem to favor the membrane keyboard - it takes less time to depress the key, trigger the response and move on.

This is all the more important since people discussing typing speed sometimes seem pleased with getting a few extra words per minute.

I can type far faster on the mechanicals than I can on the Apple Magic Keyboard.

So this surprised me, and I wonder how common it is for other computer users to perceive themselves to type faster on a mechanical keyboard.

It's my understanding from researching keyboards recently that mechanical keyboards reputedly have an edge in durability/longevity, hot-swappable models are much more customizable, and if many people type faster on them that would be good information to have.

 

[richpjr]

Apparently so, and that got me curious. I'm a casual computer user and thus a casual types, though I do touch type, not 'hunt and peck.' I wouldn't expect the difference between, oh, say, membrane (short key press depth) and mechanical (often greater) keyboard typing speeds to be great, but logically (in the context of my limited knowledge on it) the basics would seem to favor the membrane keyboard - it takes less time to depress the key, trigger the response and move on.

This is all the more important since people discussing typing speed sometimes seem pleased with getting a few extra words per minute.

So this surprised me, and I wonder how common it is for other computer users to perceive themselves to type faster on a mechanical keyboard.

It's my understanding from researching keyboards recently that mechanical keyboards reputedly have an edge in durability/longevity, hot-swappable models are much more customizable, and if many people type faster on them that would be good information to have.

There is nothing about a mechanical keyboard that physically would allow one to type faster. However, some people prefer the better tactile feedback of mechanical keys and can type faster because of that.

 

[xraydoc]

There is nothing about a mechanical keyboard that physically would allow one to type faster. However, some people prefer the better tactile feedback of mechanical keys and can type faster because of that.

Better tactile feel (I like stronger tactile switches generally). Flat low-profile keycaps don't like my fingers -- I make too many adjacent typos as there's not enough height and tapering of the keycaps. Anything shorter than Cherry profile and I tend to make more mistakes.

I also prefer the sound of standard-height keyboards (high quality ones, at least) as compared to most low-profile keyboards, though there's a couple of newer low-profile keyboards that sound solid and not rattly plastic like a lot of them do.