Hey Greggles. 1. Many (like me) love the flatness of the keyboard. 2. Two reasons why Apple does not backlight the keyboard (1. battery life. 2. 99% of the time your monitor throws enough light to see the keyboard when working in dark. Just another take. Finally, I too am a left handed guitar player.
Probably they don't know that is possible to make a backllight with auto turn off function. But maybe it is better. If they made it with backlight option they porbaby want 100 dollars more for it.
The flatter keyboard - the straighter you would keep your wrists and the healthier they would be. It's not a disadvantage as you say, it's a matter of your habits (or a bad habit in your case). Backlit - it's arguable. Why? First of all you should have bought a white keyboard as I did. You won't see greasy fingerprints on white keys. A white keyboard is better at reflecting light. And the last thing - never sit in the dark room, always keep a lamp in the background. And yes... I'm a blind-typer... I don't care of a backlit or keyboard (I'm typing on the same keyboard with a German layout QWERTY). I switch 5 languages - no complains. :)
Guess it’s not standard for people to type without looking at the keyboard then. I would take longer battery life and no Backlight over the opposite any day.
well, if you ever used recent aple keyboards you know they are thin and they do not put backlit on them, so complaining about features that you don't actually expect is kinda dumb, I got them cause of their confortness to type for long hours (im a dev) and durability, (the last magic mouse I purchased lasted 10 years), so having said this I'd not recommend the purchase as mentioned if you are not really a full products suite apple user and kinda like to mix with other products..
There are little feet stands that stick to the bottom of the keyboard and fold flat when not in use. I got some on Amazon. I'll prob try that for a little added height that I can fold away when needed.
If you want Touch ID or if you really like Apple’s Magic Keyboard, then instead of this full sized keyboard, get the smaller Magic Keyboard with Touch ID, put a Magic Trackpad to the left of it & your mouse to the right of it (or vice versa for left-handers), and you can have a Macally Number Pad nearby for when you need a number pad. Also, use a monitor mounted light to light up your keyboard (& desk) as a work-around to no backlights
You didn't know it wasn't backlit before you bought it??? For me, it wouldn't be an issue because I touch type. What I DO want (and so far can't find it anywhere) is either a bluetooth keyboard that works with KVM (you'd put the bluetooth dongle in the KVM and connect the keyboard to the dongle) or at least a bluetooth keyboard that connects to more than one source and you can switch with the press of a button. I currently have my logitech keyboard that does this, but it doesn't have the touch id.
So basically don't buy this keyboard if you don't know how to type without looking at the keys!? This keyboard feels good, short key strokes, firm return on key after pressing, form size is perfect, absolutely love these keyboards! If you "hunt and peck" for your keys at night, I guess this keyboard is not for you, LOL.
Backlighting looks nice -- but if you're really familiar with the keyboard, it's absolutely not necessary. You just feel for the raised bumps on the home keys. I suspect many of you can look someplace else while you are typing and don't actively stare at keyboard. You do it all the time when you are gaming -- and you are likely only ever searching for some proprietary function key -- or occasionally forget which numeric key has the symbol you are looking for... I do agree that the lay of the keyboard is too flat (sticky felt pads should work) -- And a bit hefty on the price, so this really comes down to "how much are you willing to pay for a built-in authentication method"?
Yea, don't get me wrong -- I still opted for the MX keys -- They key feel was nicer and the multi bluetooth is awesome: being able to hit a button and control the chomecast from my desk or pound out a text reply on the phone is awesome.
I've used big stiff clicky keyboard for about 30 years. For the past 10 after my old Northgate died it's been variations of Corsair gaming keyboard with Cherry MX Blue switches, obviously all backlit. I bought an MX keys to use with my Mac last year and I have enjoyed it quite a bit, definitely still use the MX3 Mouse over the Apple one. However like you I wanted Touch ID so I bought this keyboard. Coming from full size gaming keyboards the MX was very low and this is super low. However what I found over the past year is that lower keyboard, ones I don't need a wrist wrest seem to keep my hands from getting tired as easily. I picked up a Logitech G915 TKL for my gaming rig and it's been one of the best typing experiences ever. It took a little bit to get use to the Magic Keyboard but now that I have I find myself using my Mac more if I'm typing long documents. I'm a big fan of backlit as well however my guess is Apple is doing for battery life, would be nice if they had the proximity sensor like the MX Keys to save on that. As I often keep my studio area dark I picked up a monitor light to shine on my workspace. I was skeptical but it's really helped on eyestrain and made the need for backlit on this keyboard a moot point. I'm still in the honeymoon phase but really enjoying the keyboard. Oddly enough using it so much even the slight angle on my G915 bothers me a little having to lift my fingers up more to type... I would have never dreamed that would be the case if asked a couple of years ago. Perhaps it's just what we get use to over time. Excellent video and I agree with your reason for not keeping it, I probably wouldn't have even tried it if I didn't have the monitor lamp... I do love the touch ID though now that I have it!
Agree. All this focus on needing a wrist pad, ergonomic keyboards.......maybe none of that is necessary if you just make the keyboard super low and the keys super light. For years everyone has said people's posture is wrong, but has it been the design of keyboards has been wrong? Everyone says this keyboard isn't ergonomic, but is is possible all the taller keyboards with big keys are the ones that aren't ergonomic? But yeah I have the MX Keys too. Backlit isn't something you knew you needed in your life until you don't have it anymore.
I was just thinking, is wireless touch-id hackable? That would be a reason not to buy it. I'd rather have a cabled or builtin fingerprint sensor rather than a wireless one that can be intercepted/sniffed.
Thank you for this review! I agree about the importance of backlit keyboards. The Touch ID is Super important! But the keyboard illumination is as well! My current configuration with a MacBook off to the side of external displays requires me to awkwardly use the laptop's Touch ID but comfortably use a Third-Party's backlit keyboard centered under the external displays. It's bizarro that Apple doesn't make a backlit keyboard with Touch ID. I'd settle for a simple stand alone Touch ID accessory button. a single solitary magical Touch ID button. I'd stick it somewhere very conveniently located in the desk environment. So I could reach out and Presto touch it. Please Apple make a Magic Button.
Let's see, my MX proximity sensor doesn't work anymore, the keyboard flashes whenever it's not on charge, the software is absolutely atrocious, I must shut it off every night so it doesn't pulse on and off continuously, my FN keys become randomly inoperative. Other than that I like it other than not having a caps lock click which causes me no end of aggravation and lost productivity. Any mention that light leaks around all the keys which looks like crap? Then again I despise the Apple keyboards and mouse.
My only complaint, i have one without the Touch ID is, the feet on the bottom, dont really work. Like they are rubber and unobstructed. But for some reason it can slide around on desk. It doesn’t but that can happen.
Apologies but both your reasons are pretty dumb, considering that 1) the keyboard is not advertised as backlit and the size is a personal preference, and 2) the "issues" you describe were not introduced with this model. Literally the previous (2020) model of this keyboard was just as flat and not backlit. For anyone considering if they should upgrade from the 2020 model in order to have a fingerprint sensor, you can do so.
If you're a touch typist you really don't need to look at the keys much. I don't have a big problem with no backlighting although ti would be nice to have. Main problem is the typing feel. Feels very hard. No sense of cushioning from the keys.
If we were not in the clickbait era, the title would have been "DON'T BUY Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID - because it's not back-lit" saving the whole lot of viewers' time, rendering the author a dummy :) yes folks - we do need to ostracize this kind of 'easy gain' behaviour.
I agree on the backlit, it’s kind of a shame especially at the price point which is more expansive than an mx keys that has a brilliant backlight implementation with its proximity sensor. but i think I’ll buy it anyway as touch id is just so conveniant
How did you end up liking the keyboard? Is it worth the tradeoff for the Touch ID? If you're into a Mac Mechanical Keyboard, checkout the Vissles LP85. It's great and designed for Mac!
So nothing really different than the non-ID keyboard I have in Space grey except this one has the touch ID. My biggest complaint is the cost and yes not backlit. I bought a light that hangs from the top of the older Thunderbolt Display. Could have saved money if the display was lit. I use my keyboard on a 2018 mini as well but I wonder if the older keyboard will work on the new Studio. No touch ID of course but beyond that is my concern.
I really like the Logitech MX Keys... it has a similar footprint and feel to Apple's keyboard but can pair to 3 different devices, charges via USB C, is backlit and feels great to type on. Obviously, no fingerprint sensor, though.
Same here. I have the keys (my wife ended up stealing it during the pandemic) but I've got the MX Mechanical and it's an amazing keyboard that ticks all the boxes and is still cheaper than this board. I have an apple watch so no need for touch ID for unlock or system permissions. The $200 price tag on the apple keyboard is hard to justify but I will give them credit, the board feels good when typing but if you really want to use it for long durations, you have to have some sort of stand or support or something. Grovemade have a really nice looking walnut or maple thing that elevates the board and puts an angle on it but that's another $150. Samdi make a bamboo one on amazon that looks nice and is a lot cheaper but at the end of the day, you're still paying $200 for a keyboard with less features and a slightly worse typing feel vs the MX Mechanical board.
I also have the MX Key, I think it would be perfect if it was not for an issue where the MX Keys mini on m1 macs has an issue where it sleeps after 2 seconds of not being used and then takes a couple seconds to wake up before you can use it which results in a bad typing experience. Seems to be common if you google it. So prob gana be forced to buy this mac keyboard which I really do not want to do
I just bought this keyboard for 3 reasons: the color, numeric keypad, touch id. I don't work in a dark environment so the backlit doesn't matter to me but yea, they should put it soon.
I'm still kind of shackled to it. Thanks too! Apple keeping touch ID order themselves. Once you have a biometric password manager, it's really difficult to go back! I use tactile loc docs to try and help me navigate the keyboard without looking but it still doesn't beat having a backlight.
I cant connect the keyboard via bluetooth. It works with a cable, but not recognized for wireless. My macbook bluetooth works well, I have an external trackpad and magic mouse properly connected. Anyone knows whats up..??
I got this keyboard because my work Mac uses touchID to authenticate many of our applications. It's so fast and convenient, however I prefer working at my desk with my MacBook Pro closed (so the sensor isn't available). Using this keyboard has allowed me to have my Mac closed like I prefer and still be able to use Touch ID. I originally had the MX Keys. Which all things considered is a better keyboard for most people. In my specific situation this keyboard is worth the tradeoff however, because we I don't need the Touch ID simple to unlock my Mac or autofill passwords - Our corporate applications actually use TouchID as a biometric security and to go around touchID requires a few more steps than just putting in the user password. It's a time saver, so worth it.
@@BookClubDisaster No you don't, there are two raised portions on the F and J key for finger placement. All of your key strokes are based off of proper initial placement on these reference points.
Anyone have an issue setting up Touch ID on the keyboard? I can not add a finger print using the keyboard and have tried to search for the solution. Software up to date - thank you!
Great review. I decided to buy this keyboard based upon your review. The flat angle and no key lighting is not important to me. But I can see how it would be for others. Thanks.
Both his negatives are irrelevant if one took the time to kearn to touch type properly. 1. No angle needed because your hands should hover over the keyboard, not sit on the desk (or palm rest, which only encourages poor technique) 2. You won’t need illuminated keys because you will not be looking down at your keyboard at all but at what you’re typing on the screen. 3. Proper ambient lighting is always advised, not just so you can glance at your keyboard occasionally but to save your eyes from burnout looking at a screen in the dark. If we cannot be bothered to take steps to safeguard our own health (in this example, wrist and eyestrain) it’s pointless to blame the tools. Just sayin’…
Ok but here's a question that's kind of ignored.... The TouchID doesn't work wireless... At least I have found that the TouchID sensor does not work unless it's plugged in all the time. That's the one MAJOR reason why I'd return it... Why make it if it can't be fully wireless?!
hey, great review, i´m looking to get a new apple keyboard with touch id as well as i really love the touch id function on my new macbook pro m2, currently i´m still using an older version of the apple usb keyboard, is the angle of the new ones much different than the older ones? i didnt find any exact measurments in the net to be able to compare.
I bought two keyboards from Best Buy the other day. I like the keys Apple uses. Very tactile which I love. I am mainly a Windows user and and I got the Magic Trackpad as well as that is still the best trackpad you can get for Windows even though you have to hack around to install the Bootcamp drivers on Windows 10 and 11 outside of a Mac computer. Trackpad is amazing. I dislike the Magic Keyboard for the same reason as you is the backlight. It really needs it. If they just increased the height and angle slightly it would be perfect to add a larger battery and have backlighting. I can understand why they did it the way they did so to keep it the same dimensions as the Trackpad. I noticed right away the Magic Trackpad does not use force clicks so maybe we can hope for a force click with a TapticEngine for a Magic Trackpad 2 and a Magic Keyboard with Touch ID 2 with Backlighting in the future? I did not buy the Touch ID version of the Magic Keyboard and another reason it is getting returned is probably stupid and that is that the shape is not consistent with the Magic Trackpad. The Touch ID version of the keyboard has much rounder corners that match the Trackpad. I do not hate the look of it completely but the biggest gripe is they are still using a glossy plastic for the back of the Keyboard unlike the TouchID keyboard. I planned on using this for travel but I do not want to scratch it up. Additionally the non Touch ID version is missing many of the functions on the F row. It does not have the Voice, Search, Sleep buttons. What I have not mentioned is that I got the Keyboard with the 10 Key that did not have Touch ID. Now the Price is $130 for this keyboard. The Touch ID 10 Keyless is also $130 on sale. Both versions of the 10 Keyless keyboard has the new form factor that matches the Trackpad and the Touch ID 10 Key keyboard. Only the 10 Key keyboard without the Touch ID is using the old Form Factor which is I guess very Apple as they tend to do this a lot and it is annoying. I will be trading in for the 10 Keyless version with Touch ID as this was not immediately clear when making the initial purchase and still want the clicky keys and being my portable setup with rarely be needing backlighting. As for the other Keyboard I got at the same time since Best Buy has the recycle a electronic and get 20% off a new Logitech device I got the Logitech MX Keys S. It is overall really great. Backlit with motion sensing backlight so not to kill the battery, tactile keys but not as much as the Apple but still nice and it sits higher and at a steeper angle. It does use a whole lot more plastic which is a down side but the top frame does appear to be metal as it is cool to the touch and that is really what matters. It is very heavy so it will not slide around either unlike the Magic Keyboard. It also has the ability to function with 3 Bluetooth devices, a Bold Receiver Dongle or even USB C cable. All for the same price as the Magic Keyboard. I really wanted the color they have listed for the Mac model but they opted for Mac labels on the Keys instead of the dual labels on the regular Black and Silver models. I did not know about the MX Master 3S mouse bundle which includes a palm rest but but having two Bolt receivers is much better than a single and palm rest for a small savings. One other gripe would be the levels of brightness for the keys. I would have loved to have another setting lower than it currently has. I do not light bright keys and it is not super bright on low but if it was just enough to illuminate the keys it would be perfect. One other big oversight from Logitech is the lack of a placement for the Bolt receiver. There is no place to store it so if you plan on traveling with just the keyboard do not lose that receiver. Logitech went this same route on the MX Master 3S too where there is no storage. It is quite annoying if you plan on needing the receiver. Being left handed but right handed mouse dominate having a Magic Trackpad, MX Keys S and MX Master 3S is the ultimate combo. Trackpad on the left and mouse on the right and you get the best of both multitouch and functionality of the crazy scroll wheels Logitech makes. Needing a Lighting to USB-C adapter is the big gripe for the Trackpad.
Yep - and stupid move by Apple..... seriously considering returning mine - didn't know until after I bought it.... Fd up that I can't use it on my MacBook Pro 2017 which has a keyboard sensor... and yes... it is very flat which does suck.
Literally every apple keyboard in the last 15 years has been flat. I love it, I hate having my wrists jacked up like eagle claws. As for backlighting - you only need to see the keys you're pressing if you are new to keyboards, which I'm betting 90% of users aren't. The F and J keys have little nubs on them for a reason. Once you find those keys you should be good to go. Although I respect your opinion, the clickbaity "DON'T BUY apple keyboard with touch id" is way too generic and makes it sounds like this specific model has some terrible design flaw. It doesn't. You just don't like apple keyboards, which is fair enough. Your title should have been something like "Why I don't like apple keyboards".
@@RedondoBeach2 the EU is forcing all electronic manufacturers to use USB-C on small electronics like phones, tablets, etc. from jan 2024. that means, all lines of products which will extend the time of production into 2024 will have USB-C. Keyboards is most probably one of them
Who TF needs a backlit keyboard?? And why would you be typing in complete darkness ? if you're monitor is on that's brighter than a BL keyboard would be anyway. I wouldn't buy it because I have no intention of adding my fingerprints to Apple's fingerprint database - spent my whole life on the right side of the law - only criminals get fingerprinted... do you really think apple don't get a copy along with all your other personal details? That's a hard pass from me.
Apple Magic Keyboard 2 does NOT support Intel based MacBook Pros !!!!! WTF .... they say it only works with Silicon M1 because of security enclave - I call BS - this is all marketing to get you to upgrade to the M1 - another way for Apple to try to coerce you to upgrade... kinda sux that I can't have the same experience I have on my laptop when I am mobile.... Stupid move APPLE!!!!
I own magic keyboard with numpad the previous non-touch ID generation that was delivered with my current 2020 27 inch Intel imac. And because I still need intel to be able to do my business and making money with the iMac I have decided to fully load this iMac to be able to keep it for as long as possible. Because I don't using Macos only on it but I also using Windows and other operating systems via Virtual Machine which yeah you can do that on M1/M2 chip too but unfortunately, you can not really run x86 or x64 apps anymore so it is still a no way to go for me. But back to magic keyboard. I have brand new one that came in with my iMac but I have never used it its still in the original packaging. I did worked with my previous 2017 27inch iMac but I was able to type on magic keyboard for about 4 hours only and then I felt huge pain in my wirsts so I packed it into original packaging and put it back into the box. BUT I also own and still using the old fashioned USB-A Apple wired keyboard A1243 and nowadays its really old keyboard. BUT GUYS! You can literally type on this scisors keyboard for all day long with feeling NO PAIN of your wirsts at the end of the day. This keyboard has optimal angle for your wrists and what I also love is the smaller / thinner function keys (like brightness adjustment, volume changing etc.) so I can easily navigate them with no need to look at the keyboard. And my wired keyboard still looks like brand new. It does not have backlight but I don't care because I typing by mussle memory so its not really a big deal for me. And everyone who typed on this keyboard said that its definitely the best keyboard you can get. But I have to buy another one in case this one die after now its 10 years old (it was exchanged under warranty for a new one). I honestly don't know whether Apple studio still has USB-A or not but I don't need to care about it as I don't plan to buy one because of its non-upgradability and for its unstability. Unstability in order to the fact that these computers aren't so reliable so in case something fail you can not really go and replace it for a new piece even though its made like modular piece but unfortunately its paired to the motherboard by firmware so that's unfortunately big red flag for me to buy this machine. And YES I think the SSD at least should be replaceable because you simply worn it out and I personally buying a computer for 5-7 years which I doubt it can really last for so long. Normally I swap SSD after like 3-4 years so...
Omg DO NOT WASTE Time watching this guys videos. I’ll tell you now he moans about it being to flat and not backlit, there you go you saved time in your life you will never get back, It’s apple all there keyboards are like that, it’s wireless, it has Touch ID. It’s expensive. It’s not what your looking for. You want something like the Razer or Corsair, that’s obvious no need to bore people with a video. Flat actually feels better on the wrists to be I can’t stand angled. Mmmm I might do a video 😂
I actually have 2 different reasons... (I just picked mine up for my new mac mini ).... I am not a MAC person... I work in IT and I have this more to keep up with the tech not because I think it is good. Reason 1: Ungodly expensive! I can buy 2 Logitech MX KEYS for that price. Reason 2: The Touch ID does not let you login to your MAC... (you can unlock it after you have already logged in) Seriously WHY?
Those who want to know the reason for returning, skip to 2:50. YW
you saved me
Silly reasons, thanks for saving my time.
The night is not for work, so no backlit on keyboard is reasonable.
@@samazgorI agree 100% clickbait. He is returning it because of his personal preferences which are ridiculous.
@@samazgor LOL, "the night is not for work" has to be one of the most dumb F comments I have seen in a long time. Bravo 👏👏👏
Have a golden star
⭐
Hey Greggles. 1. Many (like me) love the flatness of the keyboard. 2. Two reasons why Apple does not backlight the keyboard (1. battery life. 2. 99% of the time your monitor throws enough light to see the keyboard when working in dark. Just another take. Finally, I too am a left handed guitar player.
Probably they don't know that is possible to make a backllight with auto turn off function. But maybe it is better. If they made it with backlight option they porbaby want 100 dollars more for it.
I've used non-backlit mac keyboards for years and never noticed the lack of backlighting. Never seen a need.
Some people live their lives not having sex with a woman and they don't see a need.
@@yarecco, for example women
You successfully baited me. Those are definitely silly reasons not to buy
on god
thanks, i almost watched this video
Naw bro, no backlight is a no go for me. Especially for $180
@@sawyermade5469 You need to learn to type without looking at the keys, it's a lot easier when you get the hang of it.
@@chrisstromberg6527 I can but still want my kb backlit, especially when it costs this much and isn't even mechanical.
The flatter keyboard - the straighter you would keep your wrists and the healthier they would be. It's not a disadvantage as you say, it's a matter of your habits (or a bad habit in your case). Backlit - it's arguable. Why? First of all you should have bought a white keyboard as I did. You won't see greasy fingerprints on white keys. A white keyboard is better at reflecting light. And the last thing - never sit in the dark room, always keep a lamp in the background. And yes... I'm a blind-typer... I don't care of a backlit or keyboard (I'm typing on the same keyboard with a German layout QWERTY). I switch 5 languages - no complains. :)
Guess it’s not standard for people to type without looking at the keyboard then. I would take longer battery life and no Backlight over the opposite any day.
I'd like the option of a back-light, but I agree. I really never need to look at my keyboard.
well, if you ever used recent aple keyboards you know they are thin and they do not put backlit on them, so complaining about features that you don't actually expect is kinda dumb, I got them cause of their confortness to type for long hours (im a dev) and durability, (the last magic mouse I purchased lasted 10 years), so having said this I'd not recommend the purchase as mentioned if you are not really a full products suite apple user and kinda like to mix with other products..
There are little feet stands that stick to the bottom of the keyboard and fold flat when not in use. I got some on Amazon. I'll prob try that for a little added height that I can fold away when needed.
received my first ever Macbook (14in with 32 gb ram upgrade) - picked up a refurbished keyboard (without Touch ID) for £40... no complaints
Thanks for making this. I was about to buy it, then thought I'd watch some reviews. No backlit keys is a dealbreaker. WTF were they thinking.
If you want Touch ID or if you really like Apple’s Magic Keyboard, then instead of this full sized keyboard, get the smaller Magic Keyboard with Touch ID, put a Magic Trackpad to the left of it & your mouse to the right of it (or vice versa for left-handers), and you can have a Macally Number Pad nearby for when you need a number pad.
Also, use a monitor mounted light to light up your keyboard (& desk) as a work-around to no backlights
Bro, that’s a lot of work to solve some basic probs. Can get a much nicer mech kb backlit for the same price or cheaper.
You didn't know it wasn't backlit before you bought it??? For me, it wouldn't be an issue because I touch type. What I DO want (and so far can't find it anywhere) is either a bluetooth keyboard that works with KVM (you'd put the bluetooth dongle in the KVM and connect the keyboard to the dongle) or at least a bluetooth keyboard that connects to more than one source and you can switch with the press of a button. I currently have my logitech keyboard that does this, but it doesn't have the touch id.
Of course he knew, he's full of shit making up crap reasons to get attention from people worried about reasons why they shouldn't buy it.
So basically don't buy this keyboard if you don't know how to type without looking at the keys!? This keyboard feels good, short key strokes, firm return on key after pressing, form size is perfect, absolutely love these keyboards! If you "hunt and peck" for your keys at night, I guess this keyboard is not for you, LOL.
Backlighting looks nice -- but if you're really familiar with the keyboard, it's absolutely not necessary.
You just feel for the raised bumps on the home keys.
I suspect many of you can look someplace else while you are typing and don't actively stare at keyboard.
You do it all the time when you are gaming -- and you are likely only ever searching for some proprietary function key -- or occasionally forget which numeric key has the symbol you are looking for...
I do agree that the lay of the keyboard is too flat (sticky felt pads should work) --
And a bit hefty on the price, so this really comes down to "how much are you willing to pay for a built-in authentication method"?
But having to feel around for that to put your fingers on the home row is a bit of a hassle and on this keyboard the raised bumps aren't that raised.
Yea, don't get me wrong -- I still opted for the MX keys --
They key feel was nicer and the multi bluetooth is awesome: being able to hit a button and control the chomecast from my desk or pound out a text reply on the phone is awesome.
@@BrendanStephens I have both. I love to waste my money.
I've used big stiff clicky keyboard for about 30 years. For the past 10 after my old Northgate died it's been variations of Corsair gaming keyboard with Cherry MX Blue switches, obviously all backlit. I bought an MX keys to use with my Mac last year and I have enjoyed it quite a bit, definitely still use the MX3 Mouse over the Apple one. However like you I wanted Touch ID so I bought this keyboard.
Coming from full size gaming keyboards the MX was very low and this is super low. However what I found over the past year is that lower keyboard, ones I don't need a wrist wrest seem to keep my hands from getting tired as easily. I picked up a Logitech G915 TKL for my gaming rig and it's been one of the best typing experiences ever.
It took a little bit to get use to the Magic Keyboard but now that I have I find myself using my Mac more if I'm typing long documents.
I'm a big fan of backlit as well however my guess is Apple is doing for battery life, would be nice if they had the proximity sensor like the MX Keys to save on that. As I often keep my studio area dark I picked up a monitor light to shine on my workspace. I was skeptical but it's really helped on eyestrain and made the need for backlit on this keyboard a moot point.
I'm still in the honeymoon phase but really enjoying the keyboard. Oddly enough using it so much even the slight angle on my G915 bothers me a little having to lift my fingers up more to type... I would have never dreamed that would be the case if asked a couple of years ago. Perhaps it's just what we get use to over time.
Excellent video and I agree with your reason for not keeping it, I probably wouldn't have even tried it if I didn't have the monitor lamp... I do love the touch ID though now that I have it!
Agree. All this focus on needing a wrist pad, ergonomic keyboards.......maybe none of that is necessary if you just make the keyboard super low and the keys super light. For years everyone has said people's posture is wrong, but has it been the design of keyboards has been wrong? Everyone says this keyboard isn't ergonomic, but is is possible all the taller keyboards with big keys are the ones that aren't ergonomic?
But yeah I have the MX Keys too. Backlit isn't something you knew you needed in your life until you don't have it anymore.
I was just thinking, is wireless touch-id hackable? That would be a reason not to buy it. I'd rather have a cabled or builtin fingerprint sensor rather than a wireless one that can be intercepted/sniffed.
Thank you for this review! I agree about the importance of backlit keyboards. The Touch ID is Super important! But the keyboard illumination is as well! My current configuration with a MacBook off to the side of external displays requires me to awkwardly use the laptop's Touch ID but comfortably use a Third-Party's backlit keyboard centered under the external displays. It's bizarro that Apple doesn't make a backlit keyboard with Touch ID.
I'd settle for a simple stand alone Touch ID accessory button. a single solitary magical Touch ID button. I'd stick it somewhere very conveniently located in the desk environment. So I could reach out and Presto touch it.
Please Apple make a Magic Button.
Let's see, my MX proximity sensor doesn't work anymore, the keyboard flashes whenever it's not on charge, the software is absolutely atrocious, I must shut it off every night so it doesn't pulse on and off continuously, my FN keys become randomly inoperative. Other than that I like it other than not having a caps lock click which causes me no end of aggravation and lost productivity. Any mention that light leaks around all the keys which looks like crap? Then again I despise the Apple keyboards and mouse.
My only complaint, i have one without the Touch ID is, the feet on the bottom, dont really work. Like they are rubber and unobstructed. But for some reason it can slide around on desk. It doesn’t but that can happen.
Use the FN key with ESC and the light works. Why did you not read the manual first before returning it....
Apologies but both your reasons are pretty dumb, considering that 1) the keyboard is not advertised as backlit and the size is a personal preference, and 2) the "issues" you describe were not introduced with this model. Literally the previous (2020) model of this keyboard was just as flat and not backlit. For anyone considering if they should upgrade from the 2020 model in order to have a fingerprint sensor, you can do so.
For the price of this keyboard... why is it not backlit?
If you're a touch typist you really don't need to look at the keys much. I don't have a big problem with no backlighting although ti would be nice to have.
Main problem is the typing feel. Feels very hard. No sense of cushioning from the keys.
Any alternative better than this one? I need backlight and also fingerprint on my Mac mini M1?
satechi x3 slim but no fingerprints
If we were not in the clickbait era, the title would have been "DON'T BUY Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID - because it's not back-lit" saving the whole lot of viewers' time, rendering the author a dummy :) yes folks - we do need to ostracize this kind of 'easy gain' behaviour.
get a table lamp or another solution, get those sticky luminous letters to see in the dark and saves on battery
If I hear you right we still have the option to put a password in though in lieu of a fingerprint?
I got the MX Keyboard, but I have my backlit turned off, given I know where all my keys are. I regret not getting the magic keyboard for the touch id.
I agree on the backlit, it’s kind of a shame especially at the price point which is more expansive than an mx keys that has a brilliant backlight implementation with its proximity sensor. but i think I’ll buy it anyway as touch id is just so conveniant
How did you end up liking the keyboard? Is it worth the tradeoff for the Touch ID? If you're into a Mac Mechanical Keyboard, checkout the Vissles LP85. It's great and designed for Mac!
Is there a third party keyboard with touch id?
So nothing really different than the non-ID keyboard I have in Space grey except this one has the touch ID. My biggest complaint is the cost and yes not backlit. I bought a light that hangs from the top of the older Thunderbolt Display. Could have saved money if the display was lit. I use my keyboard on a 2018 mini as well but I wonder if the older keyboard will work on the new Studio. No touch ID of course but beyond that is my concern.
I really like the Logitech MX Keys... it has a similar footprint and feel to Apple's keyboard but can pair to 3 different devices, charges via USB C, is backlit and feels great to type on. Obviously, no fingerprint sensor, though.
I have it and LOVE IT
What's the model?
They are hard to pair if they come unpaired
Same here. I have the keys (my wife ended up stealing it during the pandemic) but I've got the MX Mechanical and it's an amazing keyboard that ticks all the boxes and is still cheaper than this board. I have an apple watch so no need for touch ID for unlock or system permissions.
The $200 price tag on the apple keyboard is hard to justify but I will give them credit, the board feels good when typing but if you really want to use it for long durations, you have to have some sort of stand or support or something. Grovemade have a really nice looking walnut or maple thing that elevates the board and puts an angle on it but that's another $150.
Samdi make a bamboo one on amazon that looks nice and is a lot cheaper but at the end of the day, you're still paying $200 for a keyboard with less features and a slightly worse typing feel vs the MX Mechanical board.
I also have the MX Key, I think it would be perfect if it was not for an issue where the MX Keys mini on m1 macs has an issue where it sleeps after 2 seconds of not being used and then takes a couple seconds to wake up before you can use it which results in a bad typing experience. Seems to be common if you google it. So prob gana be forced to buy this mac keyboard which I really do not want to do
I just bought this keyboard for 3 reasons: the color, numeric keypad, touch id. I don't work in a dark environment so the backlit doesn't matter to me but yea, they should put it soon.
The return/Enter key being so small and having the “\” key where the return key should be is the reason I sent mine back
Backlight? You don’t know where the keys are? Besides the monitor is bright enough to glow the keys if you get lost.
Don't buy it because it's not back-lit? Or because it's flat? Seems like these could have been thought of before purchasing.
Did you read the instructions/descriptions before purchasing this item?
I'm still kind of shackled to it. Thanks too! Apple keeping touch ID order themselves. Once you have a biometric password manager, it's really difficult to go back! I use tactile loc docs to try and help me navigate the keyboard without looking but it still doesn't beat having a backlight.
Just got it today and because of the lack of backlighting, I'm sending it back! Thank you!
I cant connect the keyboard via bluetooth. It works with a cable, but not recognized for wireless. My macbook bluetooth works well, I have an external trackpad and magic mouse properly connected. Anyone knows whats up..??
can i use an alienware keyboard on a MacBook? and are the alienware keyboards any good
I want it but as you mentioned the non-backlit is a dealbreaker.
BUT I do want it for Touch ID...
as soon as he said not backlight... I cut the video
I got this keyboard because my work Mac uses touchID to authenticate many of our applications. It's so fast and convenient, however I prefer working at my desk with my MacBook Pro closed (so the sensor isn't available). Using this keyboard has allowed me to have my Mac closed like I prefer and still be able to use Touch ID.
I originally had the MX Keys. Which all things considered is a better keyboard for most people.
In my specific situation this keyboard is worth the tradeoff however, because we I don't need the Touch ID simple to unlock my Mac or autofill passwords - Our corporate applications actually use TouchID as a biometric security and to go around touchID requires a few more steps than just putting in the user password.
It's a time saver, so worth it.
But if you need Touch ID because you have a Mac mini, what choice have you got? I wouldn’t miss a backlit keyboard for a second.
Shouldn’t you have known it wasn’t backlit before you bought it?
Do you lock at the keys while you write?!
No but you have to find them to put on the home row before writing.
@@BookClubDisaster No you don't, there are two raised portions on the F and J key for finger placement. All of your key strokes are based off of proper initial placement on these reference points.
@@chrisstromberg6527 i'm aware. but you still have to fumble around to find those raised portions if you aren't looking
No backlit?? It cost $200 isn't it?
If this was backlit, I’d buy it. Like he said, you can fix the angle but you can’t fix the backlight :(
Anyone have an issue setting up Touch ID on the keyboard? I can not add a finger print using the keyboard and have tried to search for the solution. Software up to date - thank you!
I can't set it up either. Wondering if it's because I use it on my work Mac and possibly IT disable it for security reasons.
they could solve both problems with an insanely huge battery that could power the lights for a long time and elevate it to a more comfortable angle
Great review. I decided to buy this keyboard based upon your review. The flat angle and no key lighting is not important to me. But I can see how it would be for others. Thanks.
Both his negatives are irrelevant if one took the time to kearn to touch type properly.
1. No angle needed because your hands should hover over the keyboard, not sit on the desk (or palm rest, which only encourages poor technique)
2. You won’t need illuminated keys because you will not be looking down at your keyboard at all but at what you’re typing on the screen.
3. Proper ambient lighting is always advised, not just so you can glance at your keyboard occasionally but to save your eyes from burnout looking at a screen in the dark.
If we cannot be bothered to take steps to safeguard our own health (in this example, wrist and eyestrain) it’s pointless to blame the tools. Just sayin’…
Ok but here's a question that's kind of ignored.... The TouchID doesn't work wireless... At least I have found that the TouchID sensor does not work unless it's plugged in all the time. That's the one MAJOR reason why I'd return it... Why make it if it can't be fully wireless?!
hey, great review, i´m looking to get a new apple keyboard with touch id as well as i really love the touch id function on my new macbook pro m2, currently i´m still using an older version of the apple usb keyboard, is the angle of the new ones much different than the older ones? i didnt find any exact measurments in the net to be able to compare.
Can somebody please explain why somebody complains about buying something that clearly does not have the features that you want?
You buy yourself a 40€ monitor light and voila!
Why in Hell wouldn't Apple make this keyboard backlit? I just got one. I'm keeping it for the touch ID but for God's sake, $189 and not backlit!
You just bought it blindly because of touch ID and did not even bother to check if it was backlit.
2:50 is where the downsides start
spoiler.. he thik its too flat and no backlight 2:50 SMH this could have been a 30 second video
Definition of nitpicking lol
I bought two keyboards from Best Buy the other day. I like the keys Apple uses. Very tactile which I love. I am mainly a Windows user and and I got the Magic Trackpad as well as that is still the best trackpad you can get for Windows even though you have to hack around to install the Bootcamp drivers on Windows 10 and 11 outside of a Mac computer. Trackpad is amazing. I dislike the Magic Keyboard for the same reason as you is the backlight. It really needs it. If they just increased the height and angle slightly it would be perfect to add a larger battery and have backlighting. I can understand why they did it the way they did so to keep it the same dimensions as the Trackpad.
I noticed right away the Magic Trackpad does not use force clicks so maybe we can hope for a force click with a TapticEngine for a Magic Trackpad 2 and a Magic Keyboard with Touch ID 2 with Backlighting in the future? I did not buy the Touch ID version of the Magic Keyboard and another reason it is getting returned is probably stupid and that is that the shape is not consistent with the Magic Trackpad. The Touch ID version of the keyboard has much rounder corners that match the Trackpad. I do not hate the look of it completely but the biggest gripe is they are still using a glossy plastic for the back of the Keyboard unlike the TouchID keyboard. I planned on using this for travel but I do not want to scratch it up. Additionally the non Touch ID version is missing many of the functions on the F row. It does not have the Voice, Search, Sleep buttons.
What I have not mentioned is that I got the Keyboard with the 10 Key that did not have Touch ID. Now the Price is $130 for this keyboard. The Touch ID 10 Keyless is also $130 on sale. Both versions of the 10 Keyless keyboard has the new form factor that matches the Trackpad and the Touch ID 10 Key keyboard. Only the 10 Key keyboard without the Touch ID is using the old Form Factor which is I guess very Apple as they tend to do this a lot and it is annoying. I will be trading in for the 10 Keyless version with Touch ID as this was not immediately clear when making the initial purchase and still want the clicky keys and being my portable setup with rarely be needing backlighting.
As for the other Keyboard I got at the same time since Best Buy has the recycle a electronic and get 20% off a new Logitech device I got the Logitech MX Keys S. It is overall really great. Backlit with motion sensing backlight so not to kill the battery, tactile keys but not as much as the Apple but still nice and it sits higher and at a steeper angle. It does use a whole lot more plastic which is a down side but the top frame does appear to be metal as it is cool to the touch and that is really what matters. It is very heavy so it will not slide around either unlike the Magic Keyboard. It also has the ability to function with 3 Bluetooth devices, a Bold Receiver Dongle or even USB C cable. All for the same price as the Magic Keyboard. I really wanted the color they have listed for the Mac model but they opted for Mac labels on the Keys instead of the dual labels on the regular Black and Silver models. I did not know about the MX Master 3S mouse bundle which includes a palm rest but but having two Bolt receivers is much better than a single and palm rest for a small savings. One other gripe would be the levels of brightness for the keys. I would have loved to have another setting lower than it currently has. I do not light bright keys and it is not super bright on low but if it was just enough to illuminate the keys it would be perfect. One other big oversight from Logitech is the lack of a placement for the Bolt receiver. There is no place to store it so if you plan on traveling with just the keyboard do not lose that receiver. Logitech went this same route on the MX Master 3S too where there is no storage. It is quite annoying if you plan on needing the receiver.
Being left handed but right handed mouse dominate having a Magic Trackpad, MX Keys S and MX Master 3S is the ultimate combo. Trackpad on the left and mouse on the right and you get the best of both multitouch and functionality of the crazy scroll wheels Logitech makes. Needing a Lighting to USB-C adapter is the big gripe for the Trackpad.
my goodness thanks! without backlit is a no no to me...
“Their mouse air” tell me again why I’m taking advice from someone who doesn’t even know product names? 1:40
Any other keyboard that has touch ID
Does it have backlit keys?
i cant believe its not backlit in 2023
You should change your chapter timestamps and names
What is a Mac specific keyboard with a back light?
Logitech MX Keys for mac
What? It doesn't have backlight? Damn I nearly bought it today.
If you're someone using a computer often you should have the keys memorized and be able to type without looking.
Touch ID only works with M1
Yep - and stupid move by Apple..... seriously considering returning mine - didn't know until after I bought it.... Fd up that I can't use it on my MacBook Pro 2017 which has a keyboard sensor... and yes... it is very flat which does suck.
@@daveycrockett9447 you’re looking to connect a fingerprint sensing keyboard to a laptop that already has a fingerprint sensor?
Smaller reason: Too flat, makes it uncomfortable to type on
Major reason: Not backlit
Just saved you 5 mins.
Valid points. I just got the keyboard yesterday and it is a bit awkward to type due to the flatness. And you are spot on the back light.
Literally every apple keyboard in the last 15 years has been flat. I love it, I hate having my wrists jacked up like eagle claws. As for backlighting - you only need to see the keys you're pressing if you are new to keyboards, which I'm betting 90% of users aren't. The F and J keys have little nubs on them for a reason. Once you find those keys you should be good to go. Although I respect your opinion, the clickbaity "DON'T BUY apple keyboard with touch id" is way too generic and makes it sounds like this specific model has some terrible design flaw. It doesn't. You just don't like apple keyboards, which is fair enough. Your title should have been something like "Why I don't like apple keyboards".
I will wait for the "USB-C enforcing" and then buy the new "facelift model" with USB-C and hopefully backlit
What is "USB-C enforcing?" When is this version of the Apple Magic Keyboard due out?
@@RedondoBeach2 the EU is forcing all electronic manufacturers to use USB-C on small electronics like phones, tablets, etc. from jan 2024. that means, all lines of products which will extend the time of production into 2024 will have USB-C. Keyboards is most probably one of them
Lol the first reason is kind of silly. Do you have the same issue with a laptop?
Not really reasons for every one. Only things of personal taste, and why did you order it, when you know it is not backlit? 🙄 Clickbait title!
Who TF needs a backlit keyboard?? And why would you be typing in complete darkness ? if you're monitor is on that's brighter than a BL keyboard would be anyway. I wouldn't buy it because I have no intention of adding my fingerprints to Apple's fingerprint database - spent my whole life on the right side of the law - only criminals get fingerprinted... do you really think apple don't get a copy along with all your other personal details? That's a hard pass from me.
If this had backlight it would be a no brainer. As is, I cannot justify spending $200 on it
Apple Magic Keyboard 2 does NOT support Intel based MacBook Pros !!!!! WTF .... they say it only works with Silicon M1 because of security enclave - I call BS - this is all marketing to get you to upgrade to the M1 - another way for Apple to try to coerce you to upgrade... kinda sux that I can't have the same experience I have on my laptop when I am mobile.... Stupid move APPLE!!!!
If u don’t want to do password, Apple Watch is better. Long as I’m wearing it it just opens automatically.
A lit keyboard vs security. Easy call for me. Security all day.
Dude you spend majority of the video praising the keyboard when most of us just want to know your reason for not liking it?
I own magic keyboard with numpad the previous non-touch ID generation that was delivered with my current 2020 27 inch Intel imac. And because I still need intel to be able to do my business and making money with the iMac I have decided to fully load this iMac to be able to keep it for as long as possible. Because I don't using Macos only on it but I also using Windows and other operating systems via Virtual Machine which yeah you can do that on M1/M2 chip too but unfortunately, you can not really run x86 or x64 apps anymore so it is still a no way to go for me.
But back to magic keyboard. I have brand new one that came in with my iMac but I have never used it its still in the original packaging. I did worked with my previous 2017 27inch iMac but I was able to type on magic keyboard for about 4 hours only and then I felt huge pain in my wirsts so I packed it into original packaging and put it back into the box. BUT I also own and still using the old fashioned USB-A Apple wired keyboard A1243 and nowadays its really old keyboard. BUT GUYS! You can literally type on this scisors keyboard for all day long with feeling NO PAIN of your wirsts at the end of the day. This keyboard has optimal angle for your wrists and what I also love is the smaller / thinner function keys (like brightness adjustment, volume changing etc.) so I can easily navigate them with no need to look at the keyboard. And my wired keyboard still looks like brand new. It does not have backlight but I don't care because I typing by mussle memory so its not really a big deal for me. And everyone who typed on this keyboard said that its definitely the best keyboard you can get. But I have to buy another one in case this one die after now its 10 years old (it was exchanged under warranty for a new one). I honestly don't know whether Apple studio still has USB-A or not but I don't need to care about it as I don't plan to buy one because of its non-upgradability and for its unstability. Unstability in order to the fact that these computers aren't so reliable so in case something fail you can not really go and replace it for a new piece even though its made like modular piece but unfortunately its paired to the motherboard by firmware so that's unfortunately big red flag for me to buy this machine. And YES I think the SSD at least should be replaceable because you simply worn it out and I personally buying a computer for 5-7 years which I doubt it can really last for so long. Normally I swap SSD after like 3-4 years so...
Do you have any Magic Keyboard alternative suggestions?
Omg DO NOT WASTE Time watching this guys videos. I’ll tell you now he moans about it being to flat and not backlit, there you go you saved time in your life you will never get back, It’s apple all there keyboards are like that, it’s wireless, it has Touch ID. It’s expensive. It’s not what your looking for. You want something like the Razer or Corsair, that’s obvious no need to bore people with a video. Flat actually feels better on the wrists to be I can’t stand angled. Mmmm I might do a video 😂
turned this off as soon as he told me hes not an apple user. i want reviews from people who use macs as their main
I wish that I saw this video before buying mine, I just received it and returned right away :), I cannot believe it dose not have backlights!
What are you thick? No apple keyboards are back lit. Acting like you didn't research this before you bought it? Clown.
@@ultimatemagic2125 No Clown junior, i did not research ..
£199.00 for a keyboard? I don't think so!
Funny, the main reason you hate this keyboard are the main reason why i like it.
I just bought this keyboard, and I love it. its amazing.
I actually have 2 different reasons... (I just picked mine up for my new mac mini ).... I am not a MAC person... I work in IT and I have this more to keep up with the tech not because I think it is good.
Reason 1: Ungodly expensive! I can buy 2 Logitech MX KEYS for that price.
Reason 2: The Touch ID does not let you login to your MAC... (you can unlock it after you have already logged in) Seriously WHY?
little plastic legs would have added maybe 1 gram
This keyboard is too flat, this is major problem for me....
yes to bad there no light on the keyboard for the dark time but its apple and it will last furlong time
I use my Apple Watch for authentication. No need for me to buy the Touch ID keyboard
why do people care so much about backlighting? Get a monitor light on top of your monitor and problem solved...
omg, no backlight? really? sometimes apple really suck badly
You look at your keyboard while typing? Lol.
@@lifeartpixels yep
Ive been trying to backlight this thing all day, but now I know why I cant get it to work. Agree with Pandiwan that no backlight is disappointing
Light bulb havers not welcome