Keyboard-Wireless-SideI picked up one of Apple’s new Wireless Keyboard $79US over the weekend. I connected it to a Mac mini I have in my home office replacing an older Apple Wireless keyboard. My main reason was to have more desk space. The second reason was this new Apple Wireless Keyboard is so very cool looking.

The new Apple Wireless Keyboard is probably one of the thinnest keyboards you will find. The unit runs on three AA batteries that come included. Set-up was quick and easy. Although, you MUST run your Software Update on your Mac after you connect the new keyboard to download and install the Keyboard Software Update 1.2 (or download it from the link) for the special function keys such as brightness, volume, eject, play/pause, Dashboard and Exposé to work.

The new Bluetooth keyboard is small and not an extended keyboard like Apple’s new wired version or the older Apple Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard (see below).

Apple Keyboards

The new Apple Wireless Keyboard features flatter keys and looks a lot like the keyboard on the current MacBooks. The flat keys do take a bit getting used to. They do seem to have less travel and can feel better to many users.

Apple Wireless Keyboard
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Some new keys have been added for media and Dashboard and Exposé which are a nice touch. But I really like the Caps Lock on the new keyboard. If you ever hit the Caps Lock by accident while typing, by simply brushing it, giving you “CHarActers” like this, you may also appreciate this subtle feature. The new Caps Lock needs to be pushed down for a split second longer to engage, making it harder to hit when you did not really want it.

The keyboard is so very thin and looks nice in Aluminum. It features a battery compartment on the left side that requires a coin to unscrew and an On/Off button on the left. Having such a small wireless keyboard is nice, but some may miss having a full size keyboard. I wish Apple made one in both sizes.

Overall, I like the keyboard and think it is a nice update to the older ones. At $79, it is a good value.

System Requirements for the Apple Wireless Keyboard:

  • Mac computer with Bluetooth wireless technology
  • Mac OS X v10.4.10 or later
  • Keyboard software update
  • Existing keyboard and mouse for initial setup
  • Three AA batteries (included)

Apple’s New Wireless Keyboard is awarded 4 out of 5 Paws
4 Paws

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