Microsoft Surface Pro Signature Keyboard (8XA-00111) Review
The Microsoft Surface Pro Signature Keyboard (8XA-00111) is a premium accessory designed to elevate the typing experience on your Surface Pro. This review takes a deep dive into its features, performance, and overall value, providing a comprehensive assessment of whether it’s the right choice for your needs.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Surface Pro Signature Keyboard (8XA-00111) is the latest iteration of Microsoft’s flagship keyboard designed specifically for Surface Pro 9, 8, and X models. It boasts a full mechanical keyset, providing a tactile and responsive typing experience that rivals dedicated mechanical keyboards. The keyboard also features a large touchpad, backlit keys, and a dedicated storage and charging tray for the Slim Pen 2.
Features
The Surface Pro Signature Keyboard is packed with features that enhance productivity and user comfort:
- Full Mechanical Keyset: This is the standout feature of the keyboard. The mechanical keys offer a satisfying tactile feedback and a distinct “click” sound, making typing a more enjoyable experience.
- Backlit Keys: The keyboard is equipped with adjustable backlighting, allowing for comfortable typing in low-light environments.
- Large Touchpad: The spacious touchpad provides accurate and responsive navigation, making it suitable for both casual browsing and precision tasks.
- Slim Pen 2 Storage & Charging Tray: The built-in tray securely stores and charges the Slim Pen 2, ensuring it’s always ready when you need it.
- Integrated Fingerprint Reader: The keyboard includes a fingerprint reader for secure and convenient logins.
- Magnetic Attachment: The keyboard attaches magnetically to the Surface Pro, ensuring a secure connection.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Surface Pro Signature Keyboard delivers an exceptional typing experience. The mechanical keys provide a delightful tactile response, making typing feel more precise and engaging. The large touchpad is responsive and accurate, even for multi-finger gestures. The backlighting is well-balanced and provides adequate illumination for typing in various lighting conditions.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Full mechanical keyset with a satisfying typing experience
- Large and responsive touchpad
- Backlit keys for comfortable typing in low light
- Integrated fingerprint reader for secure logins
- Dedicated Slim Pen 2 storage and charging tray
- Magnetic attachment for a secure connection to the Surface Pro
Cons:
- Relatively expensive compared to other keyboard options
- The keyboard can be bulky, adding to the overall weight of the Surface Pro
- The lack of dedicated function keys can be an inconvenience for some users
Final Verdict
The Microsoft Surface Pro Signature Keyboard (8XA-00111) is an excellent choice for Surface Pro users who value a premium typing experience. The full mechanical keyset, large touchpad, and integrated features provide a compelling combination of productivity and comfort. While the price might seem steep, the exceptional typing experience and convenience features make it a worthy investment for those who spend significant time working on their Surface Pro.