Microsoft Surface Pro Keyboard for Surface Pro 12" Device, Keyboard Only, Alcantara Material, Violet
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AI Verdict
This is a 1.39-pound Alcantara keyboard with single-color backlighting and a 360° flexible hinge, designed to turn your Surface Pro 12" device into a laptop.
This keyboard is purpose-built for the Surface Pro 12" device, offering seamless integration and transforming it into a functional laptop. Its responsive keys and dedicated shortcuts enhance productivity for users relying on the Surface Pro as their primary portable computer.
If you need more versatility, look for a keyboard with Bluetooth connectivity to allow for detached use.
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Pros
- Provides screen protection for the Surface Pro 12" device when closed.
- Offers a responsive, laptop-like typing experience with tactile keys and decent travel.
- Features a large precision touchpad for navigation and control.
- Includes dedicated one-touch shortcuts for functions like Copilot, mic mute, and snipping tool.
- The Alcantara material provides a soft, grippy, and premium feel.
- Magnetically attaches to the Surface Pro 12" device, ensuring a quick and strong connection.
Cons
- The keyboard cannot be detached and used wirelessly, requiring it to stay physically connected to the Surface Pro.
- The trackpad, while large, lacks haptic feedback and some users desire a bigger surface area.
- The Alcantara material is prone to absorbing oils, staining, and showing wear over time, requiring regular cleaning.
- Some users report the violet color appears more blue with a purple undertone in person than in product images.
- The kickstand of the Surface Pro can dig into thighs when used on a lap, and the keyboard itself is not as stable as a traditional laptop.
Dimension Scores
Users consistently report a responsive, laptop-like typing experience with satisfying key clicks and decent travel.
The keyboard magnetically snaps into place quickly and strongly, ensuring a secure and reliable physical connection to the Surface Pro.
The keyboard features single-color backlighting, which is a functional addition for typing in varied lighting conditions.
The Alcantara material provides a premium feel, but user reports of staining, oil absorption, and occasional peeling indicate potential long-term durability concerns.
Best For
- Transforming a Surface Pro 12" into a laptop for productivity tasks on the go.
- Users who prioritize a premium tactile typing experience and integrated shortcuts.
- Protecting the Surface Pro 12" screen during transport and storage.
- Individuals who appreciate the aesthetic and feel of Alcantara material.
Not Recommended For
- Users needing a keyboard that can be used wirelessly or detached from the tablet.
- Individuals sensitive to material wear or who prefer low-maintenance accessories.
- Those requiring a full-sized, traditional mechanical keyboard experience.
- Users who frequently work with the device on their lap for extended periods.
Watch Out For
- The Alcantara material can show discoloration and absorb skin oils after prolonged use, with some users reporting visible stains even with cleaning.
- Some users have experienced peeling or ripping of the Alcantara fabric, indicating potential long-term durability concerns.
- The violet color may not match expectations from online images, appearing less vibrant or more bluish in certain lighting conditions.
- The trackpad, while functional, does not offer haptic feedback, which some users find less premium than other modern trackpads.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B0DZ55YL9B |
| Brand | Microsoft |
| Color | Violet |
| Style | Keyboard Only |
| Series | EP2-32727 |
| Material | Alcantara |
| Item Weight | 1.39 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Microsoft |
| Power Source | Wired |
| Special Feature | Alcantara Material, Backlit |
| Item model number | EP2-32727 |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop |
| Product Dimensions | 11.1 x 8.1 x 1 inches |
| Keyboard Description | Mechanical |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 11.1 x 8.1 x 1 inches |
| Connectivity Technology | Plugged In |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Office |
| Keyboard backlighting color support | Single Color |
What Buyers Say
Many users find this keyboard to be an essential accessory, transforming their Surface Pro 12" into a more functional laptop. The Alcantara material is frequently praised for its soft, premium feel, though some owners express concern about its long-term cleanliness and durability. The typing experience is generally well-received for its responsiveness and tactile feedback, making it suitable for productivity. However, the trackpad's lack of haptic feedback and the keyboard's inability to function wirelessly are recurring points of contention. The actual shade of violet has also surprised some buyers, appearing less vibrant than expected.
“Look, it's expensive, but my Surface Pro just feels incomplete without it. Typing is actually pretty good, and it protects the screen, but man, this Alcantara better hold up because I'm already seeing some weird spots.”
Common Praise
- The keyboard provides effective screen protection for the Surface Pro.
- Typing is comfortable and responsive, feeling like a traditional laptop keyboard.
- The Alcantara material feels soft, grippy, and gives a high-end appearance.
- The magnetic connection is quick, strong, and satisfying.
- The inclusion of a backlit keyboard is appreciated for low-light use.
- The large precision touchpad offers accurate navigation.
Common Complaints
- The keyboard cannot be used detached or wirelessly from the Surface Pro.
- The Alcantara material is prone to showing dirt, stains, and absorbing skin oils over time.
- The trackpad lacks haptic feedback and some users desire a larger size.
- The violet color can appear different in person, sometimes more blue than purple.
- Some users have reported the Alcantara material peeling or ripping after use.
- The Surface Pro's kickstand and keyboard setup can be less stable on a lap compared to a laptop.
Ownership Tips
- The Alcantara material requires consistent cleaning to prevent visible stains and oil absorption.
- The violet color's appearance can shift significantly based on ambient lighting, sometimes looking more blue.
- While the typing is comfortable, the lack of a right-side Control key can disrupt workflow for some users.
- The keyboard's 'Plugged In' nature means it's always drawing power from the Surface Pro when attached.
- The magnetic attachment is strong enough to keep the keyboard secure even when carrying the device around.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this keyboard be used wirelessly with the Surface Pro 12"?
No, this keyboard connects via a physical 'Plugged In' connection and must remain attached to the Surface Pro 12" device to function.
How do I clean the Alcantara material?
Users recommend wiping the Alcantara with a damp cloth or microfiber cloth regularly. Some users also use alcohol wipes for cleaning.
Is the violet color true to the pictures?
User feedback indicates the violet color might appear less purple and more blue with a purple undertone in real life, depending on lighting.
Does the keyboard have backlighting?
Yes, the keyboard includes single-color backlighting for typing in low-light conditions.
What is the typing experience like?
It offers a responsive, laptop-like typing experience with tactile keys and decent key travel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at a keyboard for a tablet like the Surface Pro, you're essentially buying half a laptop experience. You need to think about how you'll actually use it. Is it always on a desk, or are you constantly moving? The material and how it connects are big deals, especially for durability and flexibility. Don't just look at the keys; the trackpad is just as important for navigation.
connectivity: Plugged In
This means the keyboard physically connects to your Surface Pro, drawing power and data directly. It's like plugging in a lamp – no batteries to charge for the keyboard, but it can't be used wirelessly away from the tablet.
type: Mechanical
For a thin keyboard like this, 'mechanical' usually means the keys have a distinct, responsive feel when pressed, rather than the mushy feel of some cheaper keyboards. It's about tactile feedback, making typing more satisfying and precise.
material: Alcantara
This is a synthetic suede-like fabric that gives the keyboard a premium, soft touch. Think of it like a luxury car interior. It feels nice, but just like suede, it can show wear and absorb oils over time, so you'll need to keep it clean.
weight: 1.39 pounds
This is how much the keyboard itself weighs. For a tablet accessory, this is on the heavier side, meaning it will add noticeable bulk to your Surface Pro setup. Consider if you're carrying it all day.
Alternatives
If you need a lighter setup or wireless flexibility, look for keyboards with Bluetooth connectivity and a lighter construction, potentially sacrificing the premium material feel. If durability is your top concern, consider options with more robust, easily cleanable materials.
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