Product Review: New Apple Thin Keyboard

Although Apple has generally always been known for creating quality computer products, the amount of access that they have given consumers to product accessories has always been somewhat low. Until very recently, consumers have had acess to one style of keyboard and one style of mouse. And, although these were quality products of their own right, sometimes having choice is very nice as well. With that in mind, Apple has recently began to sell a brand new style of keyboard, designed to improve over the older style and also give consumers a bit of choice about the product they are buying.

This new keyboard is completely different from the older model, and it is easy to see that as soon as one looks at it. The keys are now spaced out slightly, the actual keys themselves are small and very short, they are designated as being "low profile". The space in between the keys, and, indeed, the whole keyboard is designed with a brushed aluminum construction, possibly to match the look of the new Leopard operating system. The keyboard sits very low on desks and computer trays, and there are no options to adjust the height (one of the major complaints with the older model as well). This keyboard also incorporates two USB ports, for using a mouse or other device, the same as the older keyboard did.

While it would be hard to argue that the new keyboard is not a definite visual improvement over the old one, perhaps in terms of function there is slightly more of a debate. Overall, the new slim-line keyboard seems to be something that most wil either love or hate. However, it is worth mentioning that the keys, with regards to the way that they are spaced and their height, do take a fair amount of time to get used to. However, perhaps this has contributed to some of the negative feedback that Apple has received about the keyboard.

Once one becomes used to the keyboard though, it becomes an almost totally different device. True, at first the distance between the keys and their low profile may make it difficult to get the letters and words that you want. However, after one has spent some time with the device, it becomes almost second nature to hit the right keys, and using the new slim keyboard becomes something which is truly enjoyable. Although the learning curve is a bit steep, once one becomes used to the overall design, the slim line keyboard easily surpasses the old keyboard (with it's tendency to have sticky keys) and a good number of other products on the market. Not to mention the fact that the keyboard and its brushed aluminum surface look great overall. The two USB ports are a definite plus, especially if you are using it with a Macbook or iBook, as the computers only have two USB ports to begin with.

However, ergonomics are another matter entirely. The low height and inability to adjust that height can contribute to an uncomfortable typing position for some. Even more so, until one gets used to using the device, some hand or wrist pain may occur, as typing on the slim keyboard is slightly different than typing on any other keyboard. However, overall, Apple has stated that they have designed the keyboard to be low impact and ergonomically safe. Like anything else, though, a little getting used to is all it takes for the relative uncomfortableness to stop, and then one can really begin to enjoy using the keyboard.

Yes, the Apple slim keyboard may not be the most revolutionary product in the world, but it is a definite step forward for the company, and it is nice to know that those who prefer to use Apple Computers do not have to be afraid at the lack of accessories available to complement their computer choice. Overall, the great look on the outside, the ease of typing and the low impact and ease of using the device make it a great product. However, the time that it takes to get used to using this great product and really enjoying it definitely takes down the overall quality for a number of people. Perhaps next time Apple will provide sort of a middle step between their products, instead of throwing consumers into a totally new world.