Considering the price tag and the features it offers, many ask: is the Magic Keyboard worth it? Apple’s Magic Keyboard is sleek, versatile, extended, and expensive. Let’s delve into its benefits, drawbacks, and see if it’s worth every penny.
The Magic Keyboard, released alongside the iMac 24-inch (2021) and iPad Pro (2021), boasts impressive specs. It sports a sleek, almost-floating design, Bluetooth compatibility, and iPadOS-like functionality. But with a hefty price tag, should you pull the trigger? Let’s break it down.
Design and Aesthetics
The Magic Keyboard oozes Apple’s characteristic understated elegance. Its aluminum body, matched with the iMac’s rose gold, green, or silver finish, exudes premium charm. The near-floating design, with a subtle hump for wrist support, promises both comfort and aesthetics.
At 4.5mm, it’s among the thinnest keyboards on the market, but it doesn’t skimp on stability or durability. It seamlessly pairs with iMacs, iPads, or even your MacBook, thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity.
Extended Key Travel and Tactile Feedback
Apple claims it offers an ‘ Extended travel design ‘. It means the keypresses travel a considerable distance before registering, offering a satisfying, tactile response. This should appeal to those who prefer mechanical keyboards.
However, the key travel might feel more significant than average, taking some acclimatizing. But once you’re familiar, it offers a delightful typing experience, with an audible ‘click’ on every press.
iPadOS-like Functionality
The Magic Keyboard redesigns the Command keys as iPad’s Control keys. Plus, the controversial Touch Bar from the MacBook has made a comeback, replaced with a Touch ID, doubling as a power button.
Further catering to iPad users, the Magic Keyboard has a USB-C port to charge the iPad. A Según reveal, a iPad can be charged via a iMac’s USB ports. Those who switch between iPad and Mac will appreciate these subtleties.
Price and Value
At USD 129, the Magic Keyboard is pricey. It’s even pricier than some premium Windows-based alternatives. With that price, buyers might expect higher-end features, such as wireless charging or backlighting.
Its high price point brings another question: is it worth trading up from keyboards like the Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad, which costs around USD 60 less? Is its slimmed-down design truly superior, or are you better off sticking with the previous model?
Backlight vs. No Backlight
While the Magic Keyboard enjoys a sleek profile, it sacrifices backlighting – a feature that’s appreciated in low-light conditions. That’s not to say the Magic Keyboard can’t be used in those conditions, but you might have to adjust your ambient light.
Apple’s move to shave off a few extra millimeters in height comes at a price. For those used to backlighted keys, this could be a significant drawback. Some might deem it a deal-breaker, while others might consider it a fair trade-off for thereduced key height.
No Angular Design
The Magic Keyboard offers an almost-flat profile. This time, Apple has omitted the angular design of the older standard and number-pad keyboards – a design choice criticized by some for promoting a more ergonomic typing position.
For some users, this change might exacerbate wrist strain. However, others might appreciate the new keyboard’s space-saving, uniform aesthetic.
In choice, the Magic Keyboard presents a polished, versatile offering. Its sleek design and iPadOS-like functionality cater to Apple’s multi-device ecosystem. However, with its hefty price and trade-offs, decidedly, it’s not for everyone. If your workspace can accommodate it, and you’ve banked on the premium, the Magic Keyboard promises a delightful, tactile typing experience – worth its price in many ways.
