The Philosophy Of Apple Keyboard
Without a doubt, the keyboard is one of the most important peripherals of the computer; Therefore, every day, Apple strives to present improvements to this device, giving the Apple keyboard greater functionality, autonomy, precision, and other advantages that are well appreciated by users.
And it is that, the apple company has seen in the keyboard, something more than a tool to enter information; but also a means to make life easier for users.
The Apple keyboard not only evolves to fit the different models of IPad, IMac, MacBook; rather, it sets the benchmark and is a source of inspiration for other companies that are dedicated to the manufacture of these devices.
Note
- The 2021 Apple keyboards use a scissor-type mechanism, and depending on the device with which you want to link it, you will find a wide range of models that will adapt to each characteristic of your IPad, IMac, Mac Mini, MacBook.
- Their keyboard belongs to the high range of keyboards, so, like the other devices of this company, its value is higher. However, its users consider that the cost is worth it for all the features and benefits it has.
- Before purchasing an Apple keyboard, you have to analyze a series of purchase criteria such as compatibility, size, type of keyboard, and of course its price. In this article, we develop all these features to make your choice much easier.
What you should know about the apple keyboard
Apple has been in the market for several years, and in this time it became one of the leading brands in terms of technology; and their keyboards are a sample of them.
Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad
The Apple Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad is what you need to work on your IMac, giving you greater precision, comfort, and ease of navigation thanks to its expanded design. This keyboard comes in space gray and silver, and measures 44.5 x 12.9 x 2 centimeters; Its connection is via Bluetooth and it has a lightning port.
Some of the buyers’ comments point out that it is much more comfortable than the short Apple keyboard; and thanks to the substitution of batteries for batteries, it is lighter, in addition to having greater autonomy of use. In addition, they point out that it is faster than the Windows keyboard.
Apple keyboard for those who use the iPad as a workstation – Apple Magic Keyboard (for 12.9-Inch iPad Pro
The floating-design Apple Magic Keyboard with built-in trackpad is the ideal companion for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro; its dimensions are 29.2 x 23.9 x 2.2 and it weighs 710 grams, with magnetic sheet that fits perfectly to your work device, as well as allowing you some angles of movement.
Its keys are backlit, and it has a scissor mechanism that allows you to write comfortably; In addition, it has a USB-C port that will allow you to charge your IPad while you work. With this keyboard, you will perform your tasks as if you were on a MacBook Pro.
Keyboard to protect your iPad – Apple Smart Keyboard (for 11-Inch iPad Pro – 2nd generation and iPad Air
The Smart Keyboard Folio isn’t just a keyboard for your iPad; but also a cover that will protect it from both sides that is also quite light; This keyboard has two viewing angles, does not need batteries, and has low consumption since it is not backlit. This keyboard has magnets that fit the back of your IPad and is resistant to liquids.
Customers who purchased this keyboard felt that the value is commensurate with its quality, that it is fast, quiet, and comfortable to use; and that unlike the Magic Keyboard allows the use of the IPad in tablet mode.
What has been the evolution of the Apple keyboard?
To reach the versatility, complexity and efficiency that Apple presents us today in its keyboard and trackpads , several years had to pass. Next, we present a brief review of the Apple keyboard journey to achieve what is today the Magic Keyboard or magical keyboard:
- Apple Lisa keyboard: It appeared in 1983, they are quite tall, and very rough. However, they keep the same diameter as the current Apple keyboard with a numerical extension.
- Apple Macintosh Keyboard: Unveiled in 1984, it was somewhat taller than its predecessor, did not have directional, function, or numeric keys.
- Apple Desktop Keyboard: It appeared in 1986 together with the Apple II GS, and was the first device that allowed the connection of a device such as a mouse, in addition to the power button
- In 1990 Apple created this much more refined keyboard than the previous series. One of its main characteristics is that it no longer had individual mechanical parts.
- Apple USB Keyboard: Introduced in 1998 with the IMac, and as the name implies, it was the first USB-enabled keyboard. This was the last keyboard to have a power button.
- Apple Pro Keyboard: It appeared in 2000, one of its novelties is that the power button disappeared, it had more space, and it added the volume buttons.
- Apple Keyboard 2007: In essence, it is the keyboard that exists to date, of course, with minor changes in terms of connectivity, battery connection and compatibility.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Apple keyboard?
Before carrying out this analysis, we must tell you that much of this will depend on the device with which you want to link it; and of course how you use your keyboard. Below, you can find the advantages and disadvantages of this device.
Advantage
- The keyboard is backlit (depends on the model)
- Pairing is done via Bluetooth
- The battery is long-lasting
- It has a great design
- Excellent user experience
- If it is a Magic keyboard it will allow you to use your IPad as if it were a MacBook
- The Apple Magic Keyboard has a built-in trackpad
- If it is an Apple Smart Folio keyboard it will provide protection to your IPad
Disadvantages
- Being high-end prices are high
- You should look for the compatibility characteristics according to each model
- It is not multi-device
Next, we collect some questions that we believe will be very interesting when making a decision.
How to connect my Apple keyboard to my IMac or IPad?
Connecting your keyboard to your computer or iPad is one of the easiest tasks. First of all, if your Apple keyboard is linked to another device you must disconnect it, then on your IPad or IMac go to settings; Turn on Bluetooth and select the device you want to pair.
On the other hand, if you want to link your IPad with an Apple keyboard from the Smart Folio or Magic Keyboard line, you just have to place your device and the connection will be immediate.
Can I use my Apple keyboard on a Windows computer?
The answer is yes; and you can link them via USB or Bluetooth, without the need to buy any type of adapter or download any type of application that allows it. However, you should be aware that some keys on the Apple keyboard do not work the same way on a Windows computer.
However, if you want to connect an Apple keyboard designed for an IPad such as the Smart Folio or the Magic Keyboard IPad with another type of tablet, this will not be possible, since they have been manufactured exclusively for Apple models.
What type of mechanism does the Apple keyboard use?
Currently, Apple uses the scissor mechanism for all its keyboard models; including MacBook Pro. This technology consists of two pieces of plastic that are held together like scissors. One of its main characteristics is that it is not necessary to press hard on the key.
At this point, it is important to note that, for several years, Apple used a butterfly-type mechanism for Macbook Pros, known for the shape of the butterfly wings of its components, which gave it an ultra-fixed and light appearance. However, it caused several problems for some users, so in the end it was withdrawn from the market.
How to clean my Apple keyboard safely?
The Apple keyboard is one of the devices that tend to get dirty the most, because small particles of dust, dirt, or food debris can enter the space between the keys, so it is important that you clean it to preserve its quality. shelf life as long as possible.
Next, we will show you step by step how you should clean your Apple keyboard safely:
- If it is a MacBook Pro or a computer keyboard, the procedure is almost the same, what you will need is a microfiber cloth, a product to clean electronic components, and compressed air.
- Turn off your computer, and spray your microfiber cloth with the cleaner and gently wipe over the keyboard, being careful not to press down too hard on the keys.
- If it is a MacBook Pro, place it at a 75﮿ angle and use compressed air to clean the keyboard, that way the dust and debris will come out of your Apple keyboard.
- If, on the other hand, it is a computer keyboard, you can only use compressed air in the same way as for the MacBook Pro, but you also have the option of removing the keys, and cleaning the mechanical part. Remember that if you decide on this you must be careful when disassembling them, as you could break them.
What technology did Apple develop for its Apple Keyboard?
One of Apple’s novelties this 2022 is its commitment to a solid reconfigurable keyboard for which it has already obtained a patent. This keyboard could be adapted to the needs of each user in terms of language or depending on the tasks they need to perform.
This Apple keyboard, which would be available for both the MacBook Pro, the IMac, the Mac Mini and of course the IPad Pro, would be the first universal keyboard.
However, this technology is still under development, but according to several specialized Apple portals, it is something the company is working hard on.
What alternatives are there to Apple keyboards?
There are countless alternatives to Apple keyboards. However, the other option to it that we will talk about in this article is from the Logitech brand, which in fact is the only one that is present on the Apple page.
The Logitech keyboard adapts to the needs of Apple; and also, within their page, they point out that they have been designing and working with the apple company for more than a time, so, if your budget cannot be adjusted, you could think of this brand as a good option.
Purchase criteria
If you are an Apple fanatic, or just want to buy a keyboard to try your luck, it is important that you take several factors into account, as you will find some models to choose from. Here we have selected a series of characteristics that we believe will be ideal for you when making this decision.
Size
When choosing a keyboard, the size factor does matter, and this depends on the dimensions of the device with which it was linked; For example, if you own an 11-inch iPad or the iPad Air, you should get a 10.18 x 7.96 x 0.87-inch keyboard. Likewise, if your iPad measures 12.9 inches, what you need is a keyboard of 11.5 x 9.41 x 0.87 inches.
On the other hand, if what you need is a keyboard for your Mac computer, what you could use is an extended keyboard, which measures 0.41 x 1.09 cm high and 41.87 cm wide. These dimensions will give you fluidity, speed and precision, just what you need when it comes to working.
Types
If there is a brand that offers you a wide range of keyboards so that you can choose the one that best suits your needs, that is Apple. Next, we show you a list of the types of keyboards and what their main characteristics are:
- Apple Smart Folio Keyboard: This keyboard is still available in the Apple store, and it fulfills the functions of a compact keyboard; In addition to serving as a protective case for your IPad. It is quite light compared to the new version of Apple keyboard. It only has two viewing angles
- Apple Magic Keyboard: Made for the iPad; This keyboard is state of the art; It is quite heavy because it has several magnets, which gives it a variety of movements, therefore, it has more viewing angles. It cannot be used as an IPad protector.
- Keyboard with Touch ID: This option is exclusive to the high-end Mac. Basically, it has a touch button that allows the identification of the user through the fingerprint, and allows you to lock and unlock your computer or the device with which it is linked your keyboard
- Apple keyboard with numeric keypad: This keyboard can be purchased separately, and its main feature is that it has a numeric section, which will be ideal if you use spreadsheets, since it will be easier and more accessible to work with them.
Summary
Apple is one of the manufacturing brands that work hardest for technological innovation in terms of keyboards. So each year it presents a new model that surprises fans and detractors of its brand; In addition, this is the only technology company that has the patent for the creation of the Apple Universal keyboard.
Finally, we can highlight that despite the fact that the Apple keyboard is high-end, so its prices are high; Most of its users think that it is consistent with its functionality, versatility, autonomy, and easy configuration, which is why it is considered a good investment.