The Microsoft Designer Compact Keyboard could have been one of the best mini compact, lightweight, Bluetooth keyboards. The form factor tells us that this is a keyboard on the go, like the Logitech’s Keys To Go. So we compared both keyboards and several others of the same category and decided that the winner is Microsoft Designer Compact Keyboard.
The winner does not need to win in every specification, but just the most critical specification as mentioned in another article on keyboard selection, which is the “keys”.
It is not a tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard as some websites mentioned, but is in fact slightly smaller than the next grade of 75% keyboard. It is not 65% because there are Functions key but the navigation keys are part of the Function Keys, unlike normal 75% keyboards.
Benefits
1) The size 284.07 x 110.77 x 9.05 mm (10.33 x 2.39 x 19.2 in) is one of the smallest in the same category of compact, thin, wireless keyboards.
The length and width are close to Targus Multi-Device BT Compact (285 × 117 x 21 mm), because Targus uses disposable AAA batteries instead of the CR2032 batteries.
If the designers use rechargeable Lithium batteries instead, then maybe the keyboard can have backlights as it would have more power.
2) The weight is very light at just 286grams (batteries included) as compared to Targus at 336 grams, and Alcatroz Xplorer 300BT at 302 grams (batteries included)
3) Chiclet style keys with very short keypress
- Tactile bump starts at 0mm, meaning that you will need to overcome the “bump” to press the key.
- Pre-travel to actuation is about 1mm, meaning the keys actually need to press by 1mm for the key to be activated. This is even shorter than Logitech’s MX Keys which is about 1.8mm, and the mechanical keyboard is about 2mm.
- Full keypress height is about 1.5mm, which is again shorter than MX Keys’ 2mm total keypress height.
The keys for the Microsoft Designer Compact feel quite similar to Logitech’s MX key.
The Logitech’s Keys-To-Go does not feel comfortable when typing over the layer of plastic sheet, as confirmed by other users on YouTube, etc. This is unlike the chiclet and scissors switch design, which is much smoother and comfortable to type.
If Logitech Keys-To-Go Version 2 has a plastic design with chiclet keys and scissors switches, then it will be a stronger competitor against Microsoft’s Designer Compact.
4) It is multi-device capable with indicator light, and it connects up to 3 devices with Bluetooth LE 5.0,
5) Stated battery life using 4 x CR2032 is 36 months is very impressive.
6) Dedicated Windows Emoji keys, which normally require two buttons to be pressed to access, i.e. Windows and Period button.
7) Dedicated On/Off switch is at the bottom. There is at least one designer who removed the manual On/Off switch from their keyboard, i.e. Alcatroz Xplorer 300BT.
Drawback
1) There is no backlight.
We noticed that most keyboards that use standard disposable Alkaline batteries do not have a backlight.
CR2032 is a commonly available flat round Lithium battery, but would the battery life suffer significantly if backlights are included? Then the next Microsoft Designer Compact Keyboard Version 2 should use a rechargeable Lithium battery and the keyboard should have backlight.
Sad to say that all the mini compact keyboards that we reviewed, including Logitech’s Keys to Go, Targus Compact, Xplorer BT300, have backlights.
2) There is no battery life indicator.
So, if the battery runs out in the middle of an important meeting, we must run to a nearby store to buy the batteries. If this happens while working late at night and the stores are closed, then good luck.
It is hard to imagine if anyone can remind themselves to keep 4x CR2032 batteries in their bag for 36 months (3 years). Nowadays, it is easier to use a charger as its available almost anywhere, conference room, meeting room, pantry, and maybe even the toilet!
3) The battery compartment is tough to open.
Fortunately, we only need to open the cover once every 3 years, assuming the batteries last as long as claimed.
4) There is no protective pouch.
This compact, wireless keyboard is designed with a minimal form factor, super lightweight and multi-device capabilities. Are we expected to use them at our work desk only? I bought this keyboard to go with my tablet when I travel around. A protective Microsoft Designer Pouch will make the Designer Compact Keyboard more complete.
Maybe Microsoft can partner with Prada designers to come up with several bag designs, and have Bill Gates’ signature on the bag.
Below is a marketing video from Microsoft, showing a lady taking out a bare Designer Compact keyboard and computer from her tote bag. In real life, we buy protective sleeves, covers or pouches to protect our investments.
5) Last but not least, there is no Mac version.
Many IPad users like me would like to use Designer Compact. The keys are different, e.g. Command key for the Mac/IOS is the Windows key.
Conclusion
Even though there are quite a number of drawbacks, the Microsoft Designer Keyboard is very comfortable to type, and is compact and light enough to bring around every day.
Microsoft Designer Keyboard is a very useful companion for tablets. It can also be used as a desktop keyboard replacement for those who have a cramped table top.
We will look forward to Microsoft Designer Keyboard Version 2.0.
