Microsoft Surface Pro Signature Keyboard (8XA-00111) Review – A Mechanical Typing Experience for Your Surface Pro

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.