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Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard Keyboard Review

Tested using Methodology v1.3.1
Reviewed Mar 19, 2020 at 08:33 am
Latest change: Test bench update Nov 29, 2023 at 09:32 am
Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard Picture
6.3
Gaming
7.6
Office
7.3
Mobile/Tablet
6.9
Programming
4.3
Entertainment / HTPC
7.1
Raw Performance

The Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard is a very straightforward wireless keyboard. It has typical rubber dome switches that can be found on other similar office keyboards that offer a good overall typing experience, although some may find them to be a bit mushy. It's well-built even though it's entirely made of plastic and is well-suited for an open-office environment as typing on it isn't loud at all. Unfortunately, it lacks backlighting, which might be a deal-breaker for some, but it's one of the most versatile keyboards since it works with pretty much any Bluetooth-compatible device, including mobile devices.

Our Verdict

6.3 Gaming

The Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard isn't designed for gaming. We don't currently test latency, but a Bluetooth connection is rarely recommended for gaming. Also, while it can set macros, the F4-F7 keys aren't the best-positioned keys to use when gaming. It also lacks backlighting, which might be a deal-breaker for some.

Pros
  • Well-built design.
  • Good overall typing quality.
  • Very quiet to type on.
Cons
  • Macros limited to F4-F7 keys.
  • No incline setting.
7.6 Office

The Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard is a good office keyboard. Its wireless design clears up a bit of clutter on your desk and its low-profile design is decently ergonomic to type on during your workday. Its rubber dome switches are very quiet to use in an open office environment and it offers a good overall typing experience.

Pros
  • Well-built design.
  • Good overall typing quality.
  • Very quiet to type on.
Cons
  • Macros limited to F4-F7 keys.
  • No incline setting.
7.3 Mobile/Tablet

Mediocre for using with mobile devices or tablets. Although the Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard is Bluetooth-compatible and works with mobile devices, this full-size board isn't the most portable. It might be a bit hard to fit inside a backpack and you can't connect it to multiple devices simultaneously.

Pros
  • Well-built design.
  • Good overall typing quality.
  • Very quiet to type on.
Cons
  • Macros limited to F4-F7 keys.
  • No incline setting.
6.9 Programming

The Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard is an okay keyboard for programming. Although its typing experience is good, you can only set a few macros on the F4-F7 keys, which might not be enough for some. On the upside, its wireless design gives a cleaner setup.

Pros
  • Well-built design.
  • Good overall typing quality.
  • Very quiet to type on.
Cons
  • Macros limited to F4-F7 keys.
  • No incline setting.
4.3 Entertainment / HTPC

Pros
  • Well-built design.
  • Good overall typing quality.
  • Very quiet to type on.
Cons
  • Macros limited to F4-F7 keys.
  • No incline setting.
7.1 Raw Performance

Pros
  • Well-built design.
  • Good overall typing quality.
  • Very quiet to type on.
Cons
  • Macros limited to F4-F7 keys.
  • No incline setting.
  • 6.3 Gaming
  • 7.6 Office
  • 7.3 Mobile/Tablet
  • 6.9 Programming
  • 4.3 Entertainment / HTPC
  • 7.1 Raw Performance
  1. Updated Nov 29, 2023: We've concerted this review to Test Bench 1.3.1, which adds a new estimated PCB latency test to the Single-Key Latency section and a new Analog test to the Switches section of this review. You can see the full changelog here.
  2. Updated Oct 30, 2023: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.3, which overhauls how key input is evaluated. We've added new tests for Single Key Latency, Multi Key Latency, Data Transmission, and Chord Split. We've also introduced a new Raw Performance usage and adjusted how the Gaming and Office usage scores are calculated. You can see the full changelog here.
  3. Updated Jun 15, 2023: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.2. This update introduces new Backlight Features and Backlight Clarity test boxes. We've also added a new Switches test box, added additional test comparisons to our Hardware Customizability test box that we introduced with our last Test Bench. For an in-depth look at our changes, you can see our full changelog here.
  4. Updated May 26, 2023: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.1. This update adds several new tests addressing Hardware Customization, Macro Keys And Programming, and Wireless Mobile Compatibility. We've also added new objective evaluations to the Typing Noise test, and we've simplified several tests and removed several others that were no longer relevant. For an in-depth look at all our changes, you can see our full changelog here.
  5. Updated Apr 14, 2023: We've added a link to the newly-reviewed Dell KB214 in the Wireless Versatility section of this review.
  6. Updated Sep 30, 2022: Added a comparison to the recently reviewed Logitech Signature K650.
  7. Updated Apr 01, 2021: Converted to Test Bench 1.0.
  8. Updated Mar 19, 2020: Review published.
  9. Updated Mar 13, 2020: Early access published.
  10. Updated Mar 13, 2020: Our testers have started testing this product.
  11. Updated Mar 11, 2020: The product has arrived in our lab, and our testers will start evaluating it soon.
  12. Updated Feb 24, 2020: We've purchased the product and are waiting for it to arrive in our lab.

Compared To Other Keyboards

The Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard is nothing special. It's a typical wireless full-size keyboard with rubber dome switches, and it doesn't have many extra features. You can set macros to a few select keys, but that's about it. It lacks backlighting so it might not be the best option for late-night workers. For more options, see our recommendations for the best keyboards, the best wireless keyboards, and the best keyboards for writers

Apple Magic Keyboard 2017

The Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard is very different than the Apple Magic Keyboard 2017. The Microsoft keyboard's full-size design includes a Numpad, and you can set macros on the F4-F7 keys using the customization software, a feature that the Apple keyboard lacks. The Microsoft keyboard is also compatible with Android devices, while the Apple keyboard isn't. On the other hand, the Apple is a compact 75% keyboard that's noticeably better built. The Apple has scissor switches while the Microsoft has rubber dome switches, but ultimately both offer a good quality typing experience.

Logitech MX Keys

The Logitech MX Keys is better than the Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard. It feels more high-end, has white backlighting, offers a better overall typing quality, and can be connected to up to three devices simultaneously. However, if you don't like scissor switches and prefer a bit longer travel distance, go with the Microsoft and its rubber dome switches.

Logitech Signature K650

The Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard and the Logitech Signature K650 are simple wireless keyboards designed for office use. The main difference is that the Logitech keyboard connects with both Bluetooth and a USB receiver, while the Microsoft model only connects with Bluetooth. Otherwise, they offer a similar experience in terms of typing, customization, and noise, though the Microsoft model feels more solidly built than the Logitech.

Dell KB216

The Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard and the Dell KB216 are full-size office keyboards with low-profile designs and very quiet rubber dome switches. The Microsoft is a wireless model that connects via Bluetooth and feels somewhat better built overall. On the other hand, the Dell is a wired-only model. It also has better ergonomics since it includes pair of feet on the underside that you can fold out to provide an additional incline setting.

AmazonBasics K4R

The Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard is better than the AmazonBasics K4R. The Microsoft feels more durable, its Bluetooth connection makes it more versatile, and it will work with mobile devices as well, which the AmazonBasics can't do. The AmazonBasics has a built-in touchpad while the Microsoft has a Numpad.

Microsoft Surface Keyboard

The Microsoft Surface Keyboard is much more premium than the Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard. It's better built, and the scissor switches offer a better typing experience than the mushy rubber dome switches on the Bluetooth keyboard. On the other hand, you can set a few macros on the F4-F7 keys of the Bluetooth Keyboard, which you can't do on the Surface Keyboard.

Logitech K780

The Logitech K780 is more versatile than the Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard. It can be used with its USB receiver and via Bluetooth and its design offers a little cradle for your mobile devices, which is very useful. However, if you don't like circular keys, you might want to go with the Microsoft keyboard with its more typical square chiclet keys.

Microsoft Surface Ergonomic Keyboard

The Microsoft Surface Ergonomic Keyboard is a better keyboard than the Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard. It's noticeably better built, has better ergonomics, and offers a better typing quality, but it might take you a bit of time to get used to the split-key layout. On the other hand, if you're just looking for a straightforward wireless board, the Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard might be a better option.

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Test Results

perceptual testing image
Design
Design
Dimensions
Size
Full-size (100%)
Height
0.7" (1.9 cm)
Width 17.1" (43.5 cm)
Depth
4.9" (12.4 cm)
Depth With Wrist Rest
N/A
Weight
1.04 lbs (0.470 kg)

This is a full-size keyboard that doesn't take too much space. It also doesn't come with a wrist rest, which would have taken more desk space.

7.5
Design
Build Quality
Keycap Material ABS

This keyboard is well-built. Its frame is made out of plastic, and although there's some flex to the body, it still feels solid overall. The keycaps are stable, but the switches might feel a bit mushy when typing.

7.0
Design
Ergonomics
Curved/Angled
No
Split Keyboard
No
Key Alignment
Staggered
Minimum Incline
Medium Incline
N/A
Maximum Incline
N/A
Home Row Height
16.8 mm (0.7")

The Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard's ergonomics are decent. Even if it doesn't have any incline settings or included wrist rest, this low-profile and straight board is decently comfortable to type on and you shouldn't feel too much fatigue. If you're interested in a similar, straightforward keyboard with better built-in ergonomic features, check out the Logitech Signature K650.

0
Design
Hardware Customizability
Replaceable Cherry Stabilizers
No
Stabilizer Fixation
Non-Customizable Design
Spacebar Stabilizer Size
Non-Customizable Design
Size Of Right Mod Keys
Non-Standard
Hot-Swappable Switches
No
Switch Stem Shape
Non-Customizable Design
Switch PCB Socket
Non-Customizable Design
North-Facing Cherry MX Interference
Non-Customizable Design
0
Design
Backlight Features
Backlighting No
RGB
No
Per-Key Backlighting
No
Effects
No
Software Controllable
No

This keyboard doesn't have any backlighting, which isn't ideal if you work in environments that don't have enough light.

0
Design
Backlight Clarity
Design
Cable & Connector
Connectivity Wireless
Detachable
No
Length N/A
Connector (Keyboard side)
No Cable

This wireless-only keyboard uses disposable batteries, so it doesn't come with any cable.

7.3
Design
Wireless Versatility
Bluetooth
Yes
Bluetooth Multi-Device Pairing
No
Proprietary Receiver
No
Battery Type
2x AAA

This Bluetooth keyboard can unfortunately only be used with a single compatible device. If you want a keyboard that has multi-device pairing, check out the Keychron K4. Or, if you're interested in a low-profile keyboard with similar functionality that uses a wired connection instead, check out the Dell KB216.

4.0
Design
Macro Keys And Programming
Dedicated Macro Keys Count 0
Onboard Macro Programming
No
Macro Programming With Software
Yes
Design
Extra Features
Media Keys
Non-Dedicated
Trackpad / Trackball No
Scroll Wheel
No
Control Knob
No
USB Passthrough
No
Numpad Yes
Windows Key Lock
No
Lock Indicator No Indicator

The whole F row doubles down as hotkeys, including media keys. The only programmable macros are the F4-F7 keys, which are the media keys. On the upside, these macros can be pretty much anything and aren't only from a preset list of options. This full-size board also has a NumPad on its right side.

Design
In The Box

  • Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard
  • 2x AAA batteries
  • Manuals

Typing Experience
7.5
Typing Experience
Typing Quality
Key Spacing
19.0 mm (0.748")

The overall typing quality on this keyboard is good. There's nothing too special about it, as the stable keys offer decent feedback. Some may feel like the rubber dome switches are a bit mushy, but most should be satisfied with the typing experience.

9.9
Typing Experience
Typing Noise
Average Loudness
35.4 dBA
High Pitch Clicks
No

Typing on the Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard doesn't make much noise. It's very quiet and should be suitable for use in an environment with people surrounding you.

Typing Experience
Switches
Switch Name
No Marketed Name
Switch Type
Scissor
Feel
Tactile
Analog
No
Typing Experience
Keystrokes
Operating Force
66 gf
Actuation Force
49 gf
Pre-Travel
1.8 mm
Total Travel
2.1 mm

Like most keyboards with this design, the Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard has tactile rubber dome switches that require a lot of force go over the tactile bump before the actuation point. This results in a heavier typing experience, but the short travel distance helps making it lighter.

Performance
6.9
Performance
Single-Key Latency
Best Connection
22.0 ms
Best Connection Std Dev ±3.3 ms
Wired
N/A
Receiver
N/A
Bluetooth
22.0 ms
PCB (Estimated)
20.7 ms
6.4
Performance
Multi-Key Latency
Connection Evaluated Bluetooth
Key Press
20.0 ms
Key Release
45.7 ms
5.6
Performance
Data Transmission
Connection Evaluated Bluetooth
USB Polling Rate
N/A
Effective Update Rate
125 Hz
N-Key Rollover (NKRO)
No
Multiple Keys Per USB Report
Yes
9.4
Performance
Chord Split
4 Chord Split Delay
1.2 ms
8 Chord Split Delay
7.7 ms
Software and Operating System
Software and Operating System
Configuration Software
Software Name Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center
Software Windows Compatible
Yes
Software macOS Compatible
No
Onboard Memory
No
Profiles
6+

The Mouse and Keyboard Center software offers very limited customization. The only thing you can really do with it is program the macros on the F4-F7 keys. The software is also only compatible with Windows.

10
Software and Operating System
Computer Compatibility
Windows
Fully Compatible
macOS
Fully Compatible
Linux (Ubuntu 22)
Fully Compatible
Media Key Compatibility
Windows, MacOS & Linux

All keys work in Windows, and the software is only compatible with Windows. On macOS, the search key acts as a Shift key. The Settings, Calculator, and Lock keys do nothing, and the F4, F8, and F9 keys also don't work. On Linux systems, the Calculator, Settings, Lock, and Search buttons don't work.

10
Software and Operating System
Wireless Mobile Compatibility
Android
Fully Compatible
iOS
Fully Compatible
iPadOS
Fully Compatible
Media Key Compatibility
Android, iPhone & iPad

On Android devices, the F9 hotkey registers as the Alt key. The F10 key as Tab, and the F11 key as F12. The Settings, Lock, and Emoji keys don't function. On iOS and iPadOS devices, the F4, F8, F9, F10, F11, and F12 keys don't work. The Settings, Lock, Search, Insert, and Emjoy keys also don't work. On iPadOS, all keys behave as they do on iOS devices except for the F12 key which functions on iPadOS but not iOS.