Apple
Magic Keyboard
AUTHOR:Onie T.
TESTED BY:James L., and Arthur B.
Published:

The Apple Magic Keyboard is a low-profile, wireless membrane keyboard known for its simplicity and quiet operation. Available in two sizes - a compact 75% layout and a full-size version with a numeric keypad - this keyboard is designed with ergonomics in mind, making it an ideal choice for office environments. 

Its slim profile and lightweight design reduce wrist fatigue and make it easy to transport between workspaces. However, its price point - $129 USD for the standard version and $179 USD for the Touch-ID-equipped variant - positions it as a premium product. The Touch ID model is available in both white and black colorways, while the version without Touch ID is limited to white. 

Despite its high cost, the Magic Keyboard is beloved for its smooth typing experience and impressive battery life, which is advertised to last a month. It’s also available in multiple language layouts, further broadening its appeal. Labs tested the model MQ052LL-A. For users seeking similar aesthetics with mechanical switches, the Logitech MX Mechanical Mini offers an alternative, while budget-conscious buyers might consider the MX Keys Mini.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

THE GOOD

  • Ergonomics

    The low-profile design is tailored for comfort, making it an excellent choice for office professionals who spend long hours typing.

THE BAD

  • Price

    The simple keyboard comes with a not so simple price tag, for the full-size version without Touch ID it costs $129 USD. The 75% layout is slightly more affordable at $99 USD. This premium pricing may deter users who prioritize value over aesthetics.

THE REST

  • Overall

    While this keyboard is reliable and boasts a long-lasting battery, its high price and lack of advanced features may not appeal to all users. For those seeking a low-profile and minimalist office keyboard, it remains a solid, albeit expensive, option.

Hardware
HardwareNotes

The Apple Magic Keyboard package includes the keyboard itself, a Lightning to USB-C cable, and user documentation. The full-size version features a numeric keypad and a complete function row with shared media controls, catering to users who require additional functionality.

The keyboard's construction combines an aluminum top plate with a plastic chassis, resulting in a lightweight design with some noticeable flex during typing. Its flat ABS keycaps are full-sized and provide a smooth surface for effortless typing. The keyboard's dual connectivity options, via wired connection or Bluetooth, offer versatility for various setups, although it's primarily optimized for macOS systems.

In the Box

1 of 3

Front of the box.

Dimensions
The keyboard is placed on a 900 x 400 mm desk pad next to a Logitech MX Master 2S mouse.

The keyboard is placed on a 900 x 400 mm desk pad next to a Logitech MX Master 2S mouse.

Height
Width Max
Depth W/ Palm Rest
Depth
Weight
Construction
The right side of the keyboard containing the navigation keys and numpad.

The right side of the keyboard containing the navigation keys and numpad.

Chassis Material
Base Plate Material
Base Plate Color
Stabilizers
Keycaps
The left side of the keyboard.

The left side of the keyboard.

Keycap Material
Lettering
Shine Through Keycaps
Connectivity
The keyboard is connected by a USB Type-A to Lightning detachable cable.

The keyboard is connected by a USB Type-A to Lightning detachable cable.

Wireless
Wired
Bluetooth
Bluetooth Version
Multi-Device Pairing
Receiver
Receiver Storing
Battery Type
Computer Side Connector
Keyboard Side Connector
Cable Length
Detachable Cable
USB Passthrough
Features & Software
Features & SoftwareNotes

Customization is not a strong suit of the Magic Keyboard. It lacks programmable keys, software integration, and backlighting. The key layout is specifically designed for macOS, which means some keys may not function correctly on Windows systems, further reducing its appeal for non-Apple users.

However, it is fully compatible with macOS and Linus systems, ensuring seamless integration with Apple devices. While the absence of customization options and backlighting may be a drawback, the keyboard's simplicity aligns with Apple's minimalist design philosophy, appealing to users who value ease of use over advanced features.

Software
Software
Mandatory Registration
Number Of Profiles
Onboard Memory
Cloud Sync
Macro Programming
QMK Firmware Compatible
VIA Key Configurator Compatible
Windows Compatible
MacOS Compatible
Backlighting
RGB Software
Backlighting
Backlighting Color
Per Key Illumination
Performance
PerformanceNotes

The Magic Keyboard employs scissor switches atop a membrane layer, delivering a quiet and smooth typing experience. The scissor switches enhance key stability and feature low pre-travel, allowing for quicker and more comfortable typing. This design is ideal for users prioritizing silent operation in office or shared environments.

Latency performance varies based on the connection method. In Bluetooth mode, the keyboard exhibits high latency. In wired mode, latency improved slightly. This performance is better suited for general productivity and everyday tasks.

Unfortunately, due to the current in repair state of our testing robot we could not collect keystroke actuation data. We will be updating this page with collected data once the robot is fully functional. Please note the keystroke actuation test bench and the latency test bench are separate.

Keystroke
Switch Type
Hot Swappable
Stem Type
Pin Configuration
Pin Orientation
Tactility
Operating Force
Bottoming Force
Key Start Force
Pre-Travel
Total Travel
Switch Name
Latency
Sound Sample
Productivity & Efficiency
Productivity & EfficiencyNotes

The Magic Keyboard's low-profile design and fixed 3° incline promote comfortable typing over extended periods, though the absence of a wrist rest may be a concern for some users. Its compact design make sit an excellent choice for users who frequently transition between workplaces, although the full-size version's larger footprint may limit portability.

Ergonomics
The keyboard ergonomics at an fixed angle of 3 degrees.

The keyboard ergonomics at an fixed angle of 3 degrees.

Board Size
Board Type
Palm Rest Included
Low Profile
Incline Angles
Key Alignment
Numpad
Dedicated Function Row
Dedicated Arrow Keys
Key Spacing
Ghosting & Rollover
KRO Wired
KRO Receiver
KRO Bluetooth
Ghosting
Test Configuration
Tested Settings
Firmware Version
Software Version
Polling Rate (Wired)
Polling Rate (Wireless)
Debounce Time

FREQUENTLY COMPARED KEYBOARDS