Microsoft Designer Compact Keyboard - Matte Black. Standalone Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard. Compatible with Bluetooth Enabled PCs/Mac
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AI Verdict
This is a 15.2-ounce, compact Bluetooth keyboard with 1.35mm key travel, designed for seamless switching between up to three devices.
This keyboard is a strong contender if you prioritize a compact, low-profile design and the ability to quickly switch between multiple Bluetooth devices. However, the lack of backlighting and the use of less common CR2032 batteries mean it's not a universal recommendation.
If backlighting is a must-have or you prefer standard rechargeable batteries, look for keyboards that explicitly list those features.
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Pros
- Compact design saves desktop space and allows for close mouse positioning.
- Connects to up to three Bluetooth-enabled devices, switching between them with a dedicated key.
- Offers a smooth, quiet typing experience with 1.35mm key travel, similar to a premium laptop keyboard.
- Claimed battery life of up to 36 months using coin-cell batteries.
- Includes an expressive input key for quick access to emojis and a screen snipping key.
- Customizable key functions via Microsoft's Keyboard and Mouse Center software.
Cons
- Lacks backlighting, making it difficult to use in low-light conditions.
- Uses four CR2032 coin-cell batteries, which are less common and not rechargeable, unlike standard AA/AAA or built-in rechargeable packs.
- Auto-sleep mode can cause a 2-10 second delay when waking up and reconnecting to a device.
- Some users have reported keys popping out after a few weeks or months of use.
- No adjustable incline, offering only a very slight, fixed gradient.
- Bluetooth-only connectivity means no wired or USB dongle option, which can be an issue in restricted environments.
Dimension Scores
The chiclet-style keys offer a smooth, quiet typing experience with 1.35mm of key travel, which is comparable to a premium laptop keyboard.
While generally responsive, some users report a 2-10 second wake-up delay from auto-sleep, though keystrokes are buffered.
The keyboard does not feature any backlighting, which is a significant omission for many users.
Constructed from a harder plastic, its 'wafer-thin' profile is sleek, but there are reports of keys popping out due to fragile pins after limited use.
Best For
- Minimalist desk setups where space is a priority.
- Users who frequently switch between 2-3 Bluetooth-enabled devices (e.g., PC, Mac, tablet, phone).
- Individuals who prefer the shallow, chiclet-style typing feel of a laptop keyboard.
- Travelers needing a lightweight (15.2 ounces) and portable keyboard.
Not Recommended For
- Gamers or users requiring ultra-low latency and mechanical switches.
- Anyone needing a dedicated number pad for data entry.
- Users who work in low-light environments and require keyboard backlighting.
- Environments with strict Bluetooth restrictions or those preferring a wired connection.
Watch Out For
- Keys, such as the Ctrl, Enter, and X keys, have been reported to pop out after as little as one month of use, with fragile holding pins.
- The keyboard's auto-sleep feature introduces a wake-up delay of 2-10 seconds before it reconnects and registers keystrokes.
- Power is supplied by four CR2032 coin-cell batteries, which are less convenient to replace than standard AA/AAA batteries and are not rechargeable.
- There is no option for a wired connection or a USB dongle, making it exclusively reliant on Bluetooth and potentially unusable in certain corporate or secure environments.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B08J8BLRZF |
| Brand | Microsoft |
| Color | Matte Black |
| Style | Contemporary |
| Series | Microsoft Designer Bluetooth Compact Keyboard |
| Language | English |
| Batteries | 4 Lithium Metal batteries required. (included) |
| Item Weight | 15.2 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Microsoft |
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
| Special Feature | Portable |
| Operating System | Windows 10 |
| Item model number | 21Y-00001 |
| Compatible Devices | PC |
| Product Dimensions | 4.36 x 0.36 x 11.18 inches |
| Keyboard Description | Standalone |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 4.36 x 0.36 x 11.18 inches |
| Connectivity Technology | wireless |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Travel |
| Keyboard backlighting color support | Single Color |
What Buyers Say
The most concerning feedback is the reported fragility of the keys, with multiple users experiencing keys popping out after just weeks or months of use, citing flimsy pins. While many appreciate its compact size and the ability to switch between three Bluetooth devices, the lack of backlighting and the use of coin-cell batteries are recurring points of frustration. The auto-sleep feature, designed to conserve battery life, also causes a noticeable 2-10 second delay when resuming typing.
“Man, I really wanted to love this thing for my tiny desk, but the 'x' key just popped off for the third time, and I've only had it a month. What gives, Microsoft?”
Common Praise
- The compact size and low-profile design save significant desk space.
- Seamlessly switches between up to three paired Bluetooth devices (PC, Mac, phone).
- Typing feel is often compared favorably to a laptop keyboard, described as smooth and quiet.
- The claimed 36-month battery life is a significant convenience for many users.
- Its lightweight nature (15.2 ounces) makes it easy to transport.
Common Complaints
- Keys, including Ctrl and Enter, have been reported to pop out due to small, fragile holding pins.
- The keyboard lacks backlighting, making it unsuitable for dark environments.
- The auto-sleep function causes a noticeable delay (2-10 seconds) when the keyboard needs to wake up and reconnect.
- Requires four CR2032 coin-cell batteries, which are not rechargeable and less readily available than AA/AAA.
- No option for a wired connection or a USB receiver, limiting its use to Bluetooth-enabled devices.
- The 1.35mm key travel is shallower than many desktop keyboards, which some users find takes getting used to.
Ownership Tips
- The auto-sleep feature can be annoying if you frequently pause typing, as it introduces a brief delay before you can type again.
- You'll need to stock up on CR2032 batteries, as they're not as common as other battery types, and the keyboard isn't rechargeable.
- If you're coming from a mechanical keyboard or one with deeper key travel, the 1.35mm travel will feel noticeably different and might require an adjustment period.
- For Mac users, remapping the Option and Command keys in system preferences is often necessary for a familiar layout.
- The lack of an adjustable incline means you're stuck with its very slight, fixed angle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Microsoft Designer Compact Keyboard have backlighting?
No, this keyboard does not feature backlighting, which can make it challenging to use in dimly lit environments.
What type of batteries does this keyboard use?
It operates on four CR2032 coin-cell batteries. These are not rechargeable, and users recommend having spares on hand.
Can I connect this keyboard to more than one device?
Yes, you can connect the Microsoft Designer Compact Keyboard to up to three Bluetooth-enabled devices and switch between them seamlessly using a dedicated key.
Is this keyboard compatible with Mac computers?
Yes, it is compatible with Bluetooth-enabled Macs. Some users report seamless operation after remapping the Option and Command keys in system settings.
Does this keyboard include a number pad?
No, it is a compact, tenkeyless design, meaning it does not have a dedicated number pad.
Is there a delay when the keyboard wakes up from sleep?
Some users have experienced a delay of 2-10 seconds for the keyboard to wake from its auto-sleep mode and reconnect to a device.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at a compact Bluetooth keyboard like this, you're making trade-offs. You get a clean, minimal desk and the freedom to connect to multiple devices without wires. But you're giving up things like backlighting, a number pad, and potentially the deeper key travel of a full-sized desktop keyboard. Think about how you actually type and where you'll use it most.
connectivity: wireless (Bluetooth)
This means it connects to your devices without any cables or a USB dongle, keeping your workspace tidy. The ability to pair with up to three devices lets you switch between your computer, tablet, or phone with a single button press, like having three keyboards in one.
type: Standalone
Unlike a laptop's built-in keyboard, this is a separate unit. It means you can position it however you like for comfort, but it also means it doesn't come with a trackpad or other integrated pointing device, so you'll need a separate mouse.
backlighting: Single Color
This spec actually indicates it has no backlighting at all. If you often type in dim lighting, this means you won't be able to see the keys, which can slow down your typing or lead to more errors. It's like trying to find a specific book on a dark shelf.
weight: 15.2 ounces
At just under a pound, this keyboard is light enough to easily toss into a bag and take with you. This makes it a good choice if you frequently work from different locations or want a portable option for your tablet.
Alternatives
If this keyboard doesn't quite fit, look for models that specify 'backlighting' for low-light use, 'rechargeable battery' for convenience, or 'mechanical switches' if you prefer a more tactile and deeper key press.
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