WhiteFox: mechanical keyboard review for Mac. Apple keyboard: Option key on Mac and other features of the Apple keyboard Keyboard analogues for Mac
What you need to pay attention to exactly.
In this case, I will not divide devices into gaming ones and not much. Mac- this is for professionals and work, and nothing else.
The question of buying a keyboard came up unexpectedly for me. At one time I chose MacBook Pro 13'' due to its compactness and mobility. But in order to increase my productivity, I decided to organize a stationary workstation on its basis with a 27’’ monitor, Magic Trackpad 2 With Force Touch instead of a mouse and keyboard.
Latest for IT-it’s especially important for a journalist, so I wasn’t afraid to get confused. New Magic Keyboard didn’t “go” (apparently, the white buttons just piss me off), so now I’m considering a couple of interesting options from Logitech. While I was shoveling the models, I assembled list of things that matter in this matter.
1. Don’t go wrong with the design (“height, age, weight”)
In my case, I can’t do without a minimalist appearance and metal in the design. For MacBook I’m preparing a handmade wooden stand, so there are no options here.
However, visual pleasure is not the main thing. You should also pay attention to comfortable physical size devices. Some people like bigger ones, others prefer the most compact options that don’t take up much space on the table. All this is individual and very important.
2. Backlit keys - can’t we do without it?
Many people choose monster-like gamer options that shimmer in different colors. But what’s important to me is a pleasant backlight with adjustable brightness, which will allow you to hit the keys as comfortably as possible even in absolute darkness.
In this case, I myself am looking for an analogue of the keyboard from my MacBook Pro 13'', more convenient than which I have never seen (about "butterfly" Let’s not argue, for me the response is simply too fuzzy, which I couldn’t get used to).
Oddly enough, many people don’t need backlighting on the keys at all. When working, they prefer the general light of the environment, which confuses me with the “right” thoughts.
3. Stroke height - from “butterfly” to mechanics
Previously, keyboards were divided into membrane and mechanical. But today such a classification is not relevant, because almost all manufacturers use their own patented combined technologies.
Now the height of the stroke is more important. Conventionally, from analogues of the “butterfly” in MacBook 12'' to mechanics in gaming solutions.
I prefer below average, but this is too personal to give specific advice at this point. I think before buying you need try typing a page of text at the nearest electronics supermarket.
By the way, do not forget to pay attention to the distance between the buttons - more or less. The convenience of one or another option will become obvious even after a short use.
4. Additional features and software for OS X
Ask yourself not which additional keyboard features you need, but which ones will work for you. Mac.
The other day I tested a multimedia monster with my MacBook- almost all special the keys refused to work without any drivers, and the software OS X for them it simply isn't.
To be honest, this moment came as a surprise to me. I was sure that these “dark” times had passed a long time ago.
However, the most important point for many in this case will be presence/absence of digital block, not buttons for creating ridiculous macros.
5. Connect to Mac - with or without wires
Another point that everyone chooses for themselves.
Some people love wired solutions for their supposed faster responsiveness. Others prefer cordless ones for convenience and cleanliness on the desk. In the second case, you need to pay attention to the batteries - regular batteries, which will have to be changed periodically, or a rechargeable battery.
Of course it's closer to me maximum reduction of “laces” on the table.
Believe me, the rest is not so important!
If any other fundamental points come to mind, be sure to share them in the comments. By the way, I still haven’t made my final choice, so I’m waiting for advice taking into account my preferences.
Apple iMac computers come with the company's wireless Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse, which meet the needs of most users. However, there will always be those who are looking for something more. Especially for them, we have prepared a review of alternative keyboards for Mac.
Apple's options
Despite the steady growth in popularity of Mac computers, it is more difficult to find accessories and peripherals for them than for the ubiquitous Windows PCs. Including the keyboard. If necessary, you can connect almost any keyboard from a Windows computer to your Mac, however, due to differences in the layout, many familiar keyboard shortcuts will not work (this problem can be partially eliminated by customizing the layout to suit you). But it is much more practical and convenient to use a keyboard that is certified for Mac.
Apple is currently transitioning from the time-tested classic keyboard mechanism to the new butterfly technology. The older version of the keyboard was designed for the first aluminum unibody MacBook, which was introduced in 2008. At the same time, on desktop Apple computers, users could use a wired or wireless Apple keyboard, which were developed “with an eye on laptop computers.” As a result of unification, the owner of Apple computers did not experience any inconvenience when switching from iMac or Mac mini to MacBook and back. The typing sensations were the same.
The butterfly keyboard was first used in the MacBook 12'' laptop, introduced in 2015. It didn’t fit the usual keyboard, so Apple developed an updated version with an increased key area and a travel depth of 14 mm versus 17 mm in the classic version. At the same time, the thickness of the keyboard has decreased by 40%. When using it, the pressure is evenly distributed over the entire surface of the keys, which in theory should improve accuracy and increase typing speed (to be fair, we note that not all users were enthusiastic about the abandonment of the usual mechanism with a greater depth of travel).
Then the updated Magic Keyboard 2 wireless keyboard was introduced, which also uses a butterfly mechanism.
In 2016, the updated MacBook Pro was released. Compared to the Pro series of previous years, these laptops have become significantly thinner, as a result of which they also received a keyboard with a butterfly mechanism, but this is the second generation, in which a number of characteristics have been improved. After their presentation, rumors appeared online that the company would present a wireless keyboard with a Touch Bar and a Touch ID fingerprint sensor (not yet confirmed).
At the time of writing, users who prefer Apple branded peripherals are limited in their choice of three models.
Apple Keyboard with Numeric Keypad (MB110RS)
The model is quite old (on the market since 2008), but it is fully compatible with the latest version of macOS and looks good with modern computer models from Apple.
It's made of anodized aluminum and features function keys for quick access to common commands on your Mac, like adjusting screen brightness, adjusting volume, and launching Mission Control and Launchpad.
However, the main advantage of the model is the full-size digital block, which is especially important when working with large volumes of numerical data.
Connection to a computer is made using a USB cable. At the side ends there are 2 USB hub sockets, which allow you to conveniently connect a mouse, storage devices or digital equipment to the computer directly through the keyboard.
Apple Wireless Keyboard MC184RU/B
The standard wireless keyboard for Apple computers without a number pad, taking up 24% less desktop space. All function keys are retained for quick access to common operations on your Mac.
The device body is made of anodized aluminum in the same style as Apple technology.
The keyboard has a range of 10 m, so if necessary, you can remove it from the table and put it on your knees, continuing to work in the way that is most convenient for you.
The island-shaped flat keys have a clear click and a noticeable stroke, so typing even large text will not cause difficulties.
Power is supplied by two AA batteries. Due to its small thickness and weight, this model is suitable for use with an iPad as a portable input device.
Price - about 120 USD equivalent.
Apple Magic Keyboard (MLA22RU/A)
Updated Apple wireless keyboard introduced in 2015. Occupies 15% less space on the desktop than the Wireless Keyboard and is equipped with a first-generation butterfly mechanism (like the MacBook 12’’), which makes the keyboard profile even lower.
The keyboard is equipped with a full set of additional buttons for performing frequent actions in the macOS operating system.
The body is made of anodized aluminum, the buttons are made of slightly matte polycarbonate.
One of the main features of the Apple Magic Keyboard is the presence of a built-in battery, the capacity of which is enough for 4 weeks of operation under average load. Then the charge can be restored by connecting the keyboard to the computer using a Lighning-USB cable, which is familiar to all owners of an iPhone, iPad or iPod.
The device weighs only 231 g and will be a good portable solution for iPad owners who often work with text on the tablet.
Price - about 150 USD equivalent (in the USA - 99 USD).
Matias Wireless Aluminum
This accessory successfully filled the gap that exists in the Apple keyboard lineup. The company's portfolio includes a wired keyboard with a numeric keypad and two compact wireless keyboards without a numeric keypad. But what about users who want to take advantage of a full-size keyboard with a separate numeric area, but are tired of wires?
Matias came to their aid by releasing the Wireless Aluminum keyboard. This model is specifically designed to work on Mac. This can be seen not only in the preservation of the familiar layout, but also in the use of a single design language with Apple products, thanks to which the keyboard looks organically next to the Mac.
However, Matias designers went further than Apple and, in addition to the usual silver-white version, presented versions of the keyboard in the color of the iPhone, including dark gray and gold (both with black keys), as well as pink with white keys.
The layout of function keys for managing common operations on a Mac is fully consistent with that on Apple branded keyboards. In addition to Mac, support for iOS, Windows and Android is announced. Matias Wireless Aluminum can be paired with up to four devices at the same time, instantly switching between them using dedicated buttons above the number pad.
An additional advantage of the model is a built-in 1,600 mAh battery, which is on average 7-8 times more than other wireless keyboards. Charging from 0 to 100% takes 5 hours, after which you can count on a whole year of use (with several hours of daily use).
Unfortunately, it is difficult to find Matias Wireless Aluminum for sale in the CIS.
Price - 99 USD in the USA.
Microsoft Sculpt Mobile Keyboard (T9T-00017)
Compact Bluetooth keyboard from the Redmond giant. The model is positioned as a universal input tool that can be connected to Windows computers, Android devices, iPad, and Mac computers.
However, first of all, the device is optimized for working with operating systems of the Windows family, as evidenced by a number of additional functional buttons above the number row.
But compatibility with Mac is also implemented, which the manufacturer did not forget to mention on the box.
The slightly curved shape provides improved ergonomics for long-term typing, and the thickness of less than 2 cm, light weight and dimensions allow the Sculpt Mobile Keyboard to be used as a tablet keyboard.
Power is supplied by two AAA batteries. According to the manufacturer, the battery life under average load is 40 weeks.
Price - about 60 USD equivalent.
Logitech K810 Bluetooth Illuminated Keyboard
Classic wireless keyboard for Apple computers, iPad, as well as for PCs and Android devices. Made of practical plastic.
The model has a stylish design and stands out among other wireless keyboards for Mac by having a backlight, which makes it especially attractive for working in the dark or in low-light conditions.
The brightness level can be adjusted.
It is possible to connect to three different devices, between which you can switch with one touch.
Charging is carried out using a standard USB - micro USB cable. From 0 to 100% the keyboard charges in about 3 hours. The operating time of a fully charged battery is 10-14 days in medium load mode (discharge time depends on the backlight brightness level).
Price - about 110 USD equivalent.
Logitech K780 Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard (920-008043)
A stylish keyboard with a full-size numeric keypad, which allows you to simultaneously connect to three devices (all popular platforms are supported, including macOS).
In addition to the frequently used Logitech feature - switching between different devices with one touch - this model is distinguished by silent input, as well as the presence of a special rubber stand for mobile devices. It easily fits a smartphone and tablet, including an iPad Pro with a 12-inch screen. This ensures the most comfortable tilt angle, and the desktop remains uncluttered with wires and devices.
Noise-free typing is achieved through the use of Logitech's proprietary PerfectStroke™ key system. Large, rounded keys combine with a familiar Mac layout for instant responsiveness and an impressive user experience.
Power is supplied by two AAA batteries (according to the manufacturer, with one change of batteries the keyboard will work for up to 2 years).
Price - about 80 USD equivalent.
Logitech Bluetooth Multi-Device Keyboard K480
Wireless desktop keyboard for computer, tablet and smartphone. Layouts for macOS, iOS, Android, Windows and Chrome OS are supported (keys with different functions on different platforms are marked with a line).
Like other Logitech models that support multiple devices, the ability to instantly switch is implemented. For this, a special Easy-Switch disk is used.
The top row of functional buttons is identical to those found on branded keyboards for Apple computers and, when paired with a Mac, allows you to adjust the backlight brightness, volume, and control the playback of multimedia files with one touch.
The keys have a slightly rounded concave shape, which ensures high typing accuracy and speed. When switching to the Logitech K480 from a standard Apple keyboard, you can get used to the shape of the keys and the pressing mechanism in a couple of hours.
The built-in stand with rubber cradle securely holds your smartphone and tablet at a comfortable angle so you can read text while typing and editing. On our website you can buy an iPhone inexpensively.
To make using the keyboard on Mac as convenient as possible, you can download an application from the developer’s website that will allow you to customize the keyboard to suit your needs.
In addition to the gray version with light green inserts, a white version of the keyboard with light gray elements is available.
Power is supplied by two AAA batteries (working time from one shift is about two years).
Price - about 40 USD equivalent.
Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard K760
An innovative keyboard with a built-in battery, the user does not have to worry about recharging it at all, since the charge is replenished using solar batteries. To do this, it is enough to keep the device in a room with normal room lighting for about six hours. After this, the keyboard can work in complete darkness for up to two weeks.
Like other Logitech keyboards optimized for use with Mac computers, the Wireless Solar Keyboard K760 supports up to three simultaneous connections. Switching between them is carried out in one click.
When connected to Mac computers, the top row of function keys allows you to perform the same operations as standard Apple keyboards, including adjusting screen brightness, volume, Launch Pad, and Mission Control.
For correct operation, software is required, which can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.
Price - about 70 USD equivalent.
Xiaomi Yuemi Mechanical White
A mechanical keyboard from a well-known Chinese company, which is known in the CIS countries as a manufacturer of affordable and high-quality electronics.
The keyboard is made of H32 aluminum and has a six-tier design. Thanks to the anodic oxidation procedure and additional sandblasting, the device has received additional resistance to external damage and corrosion.
The keycaps are made of quality ABS plastic and are designed in the style of old computer keyboards. But in fact, this is a modern device that can compete with the products of venerable peripheral manufacturers. TTC RED switches provide a duty cycle of 50 million clicks. At the same time, the keys are located as tightly as possible, which minimizes the possibility of debris and dust getting between them. The built-in 32-bit STMicroelectronics microprocessor provides instant processing of keystrokes, which will be a pleasant bonus for gamers and those who type using the ten-finger touch typing method.
Connection to a computer is carried out using a white USB - micro USB cable.
Yuemi Mechanical White keys have a soft LED backlight that can be adjusted in six levels.
Special feet on the bottom provide a 6-degree lift, which reduces hand fatigue during long-term work with text.
Price - about 80 USD equivalent. The model can be purchased in the CIS.
Das Keyboard Model S Professional for Mac
Premium mechanical keyboard optimized for Mac. Features Blue MX switches with gold plated contacts for precise actuation and noticeable feedback.
The built-in USB hub allows you to connect up to two external devices to your computer. The extended cable ensures easy connection and allows the keyboard to be conveniently positioned on the desktop.
A special Sleep function is designed to instantly put your Mac into sleep mode during breaks in work.
Das Keyboard for Mac is equipped with dedicated keys for quickly adjusting volume, muting sound, controlling media playback, and controlling screen brightness.
The Option and Command keys familiar to Mac users are also in place. Reading up to 5 simultaneous clicks is supported, which makes Das Keyboard Model S Professional for Mac an excellent choice for gamers or people who are proficient in touch typing.
Price - 133 USD on the manufacturer's website.
Lofree
Wireless mechanical keyboard with retro design. Outwardly, it resembles a typewriter from the 19th century (this effect arises due to the use of round keys, which significantly rise above the base). However, the keyboard does not lose its futuristic aura.
The manufacturer positions the Lofree keyboard as a mechanical input tool that is suitable not so much for gamers as for designers, writers and journalists. That is, ordinary users who are forced to work with large amounts of text.
Unlike most mechanical keyboards, Lofree comes with the familiar Magic Keyboard layout that all Mac users are familiar with. Moreover, the top row of keys is auxiliary and allows you to adjust the brightness, volume and control the playback of multimedia files - exactly as when using Apple branded keyboards.
Lofree's specifications are impressive:
- Possibility of operation in wired or purebred mode
- Compatible with Mac, iOS, Windows and Android
- simultaneous connection to three different devices with the ability to instantly switch between them
- built-in backlighting of buttons with the ability to adjust in three levels
- up to 100 hours of battery life
- charging the built-in battery via micro USB cable
- several color options
- reliable mechanical switches
The only drawback of the model is its unavailability in the CIS countries. The device can be purchased in the United States by pre-ordering it on the crowdfunding site Indiegogo. Unlike many other crowdfunding projects, the inventors of the keyboard managed not only to raise the required amount, but also to set up production. Reviews from the owners are entirely positive. We hope that in the foreseeable future the keyboard will be available for sale here too.
Price - about 80 USD in the USA.
By releasing the new MacBook Pro with the new Touch Bar, Apple both delighted and disappointed many users. The problem with the panel is that it robs owners of the 15-inch model of the function keys and the Escape key.
In this regard, many users, when buying a new MacBook Pro, are thinking about purchasing a full-fledged external keyboard that contains the missing row of buttons.
Let's take a look at the interesting Mac keyboards you can buy today
Apple Magic Keyboard
The most obvious option when choosing an accessory for your MacBook Pro is a wireless keyboard from Apple. Tim Cook's company released a new model of the Apple Magic Keyboard a few months ago, changing the internal structure of the buttons and reducing power consumption.
Apple Magic Keyboard is a very compact and mobile accessory that can be carried in the same bag with your MacBook Pro.
In the Russian version of the Apple online store, the keyboard costs 8,690 rubles.
Matias Quiet Pro
Matias produces Quiet Pro mechanical keyboards for Mac and Windows. The manufacturer claims that the device is no louder than a regular membrane keyboard.
Matias Quiet Pro contains 3 USB 2.0 ports, which is important when working with modern MacBook Pros. Of course, in 2016/2017 it is strange to buy a device with ports of an older generation than USB 3.0, but the old ports are quite enough to connect additional accessories. Why use an additional USB hub if the keyboard has ports?
The main disadvantage of Matias Quiet Pro is that it will also have to be connected via a wire, using an adapter for a regular USB port.
On the manufacturer's website, Matias Quiet Pro can be purchased for $150.
Satechi Bluetooth Wireless Smart
If you're looking for a wireless alternative to the Apple Magic Keyboard but don't want a bulky mechanical keyboard, consider Satechi.
The keyboard can go into sleep mode to save battery. The Function key, combined with the numbers on your keyboard, lets you quickly switch between devices to type a message on your iPhone or reply to an email on your iPad.
On the manufacturer's website the cost of the keyboard is $55.
Kanex MultiSync Aluminum Mac Keyboard
The Kanex project conducted a successful fundraising campaign on Indigogo, as a result of which anyone can now order the Kanex MultiSync Aluminum keyboard. The keyboard includes a layout for easy number manipulation and looks great next to Apple products.
The user can sync Kanex MultiSync Aluminum with up to four devices, quickly switching between them using dedicated keys.
The device can be purchased on the Kanex website for $100.
Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard
Logitech positions this keyboard as a mobile accessory designed to work with different types of devices. The K380 is compatible with macOS, iOS, Windows, Android and Chrome OS.
The keyboard can be connected to 3 devices simultaneously, but it is worth remembering that it uses the Bluetooth 3.0 connection standard.
On the Logitech website, the K380 keyboard costs $40.
In this material we will talk about third-party keyboards, or, to be more precise, Windows analogs that work in tandem with a Mac, what inconveniences exist in everyday use and how to fix them.
And even MacBook's own keyboards are far from perfect. Everything certainly depends on the tasks being performed. not very convenient when used in games and does not have additional programmable keys, the Magic Trackpad 2 is generally tailored for creative individuals, and the keyboards also cannot boast of additional features that gaming instruments from famous peripheral manufacturers have.
Well, you have become or want to become the proud owner of some kind of gaming, simply programmable keyboard, or you have lost an external USB keyboard with a numeric keypad that you want to connect to your MacBook. Or maybe you even have a hackintosh? In fact, all the keys are identical - Ctrl - Control (⌃), Windows - Command(⌘), Alt - Option (⌥), but the only problem is that the pens remember that on a Mac the sequence from left to right is ⌃ | ⌥ | ⌘, and on Windows ⌃ | ⌘ | ⌥. And it is precisely the castling of the Option and Command keys that will often lead to mistakes and not the actions that the brain wants to perform.
In order not to resort to third-party utilities, like, you can get away with the standard OS X settings and change the layout of the keys to your taste:
1 . Go to menu → System Settings → .
2
. In the " " in the lower right corner, click the button with a strange translation " Modification keys...».
3
. Select the connected external keyboard (USB Keyboard) and assign the following actions to the keys:
- for the key Option (⌥) → Command (⌘);
- for the key Command (⌘) → Option (⌥).
4
. Save your changes by pressing OK and enjoy.
From the Apple brand side, the review includes the latest version of a wireless keyboard and a standard wired keyboard with a full-size numeric keypad. Opponents include Logitech Easy-Switch K811, Matias Laptop Pro for Mac, Kinesis Freestyle2, Das Keyboard and Logitech K750.
Apple Keyboard duet: innovations vs standards
The unspoken policy of the corporation is that only two models are enough to fill the segment of keyboard accessories for computers of its own production. A clear illustration of the saying “less is more”, because both options are comprehensive solutions in their category. And formally, the potential buyer can only choose between the wireless option and the “keyboard with a tail.” In practice, the really common features Magic Keyboard And Apple Keyboard only two: support for all function keys in OS X and easy, from the first connection, adaptation to any proprietary device of the company.
Everything else is a continuous, albeit subtle, difference. For example, if a wireless accessory really has an “ultra-thin aluminum case” weighing just over 200 g, then the dimensions of a classic keyboard not intended for voyages are not indicated at all on the manufacturer’s website. There is no need to travel, let yourself stand, confidently leaning on the tabletop with your legs, each of which has a hidden USB 2.0 port - you can connect any necessary peripherals. The Magic's capabilities are limited to Bluetooth and a Lightning/USB rescue cable, but this makes it convenient to work with both iPad and Mac, which is an indirect indication of Apple's desire to move away from highly specialized devices.
Minimization did not affect the size of the buttons, but the attempt to create a mobile keyboard led to the abandonment of the number pad. A mere trifle for the younger generation, accustomed to entering data through touch systems, but it breaks the patterns and breaks the habits of avid office workers with impressive typing speeds and long stacks of numbers. Fortunately, despite the fundamentally different mechanisms of key movement, the “responsiveness” of pressing the keys is excellent in both cases. There are also no problems with power supply - the traditional keyboard receives it through an equally familiar USB cable, the new one is equipped with a battery designed for a month of autonomous operation of the gadget.
Judging by the specifications, it is a direct competitor to the Magic Keyboard; this model is aimed at wireless connection to Mac, iPad, Apple TV, iPhone, etc. A total of up to three gadgets at the same time, with switching between them as fast and reliable as Bluetooth allows, without the need for re-authorization. Other advantages of the accessory include a capacious battery, backlit keys, their “quiet click” and a thin, elegant silhouette of the keyboard. Price $100.
Matias Laptop Pro for Mac
The second brightly lit advantage Matias Laptop Pro is the proprietary button design - not the same as Apple, but not the widespread Cherry MX. The mechanism is so quiet that the keyboard is not difficult to confuse with membrane models, plus there are a number of useful little things, such as sculpted relief of the keys, laser engraving and copying of the full set of functional buttons for Mac. Beautiful, solid and not cheap, $160 per copy.
An example of when ergonomics is a priority:
- The design of the accessory allows you to place the keyboard halves at a distance of 0-20 cm relative to each other in any position. Indispensable for adapting to people with different body proportions or physical ailments.
- Flat, inclined, combined - the angle of the device parts relative to the supporting surface varies to reduce the load on the wrists.
- A separate row of popular keys on the left side of the gadget, separated from the main set by a deep groove. Allows your fingers not to slip off the function buttons during high-speed editing of documentation, web surfing, and working with system commands.
- Price about 100 US dollars
Das Keyboard
Large and heavy, 46×7×2 cm and 1.3 kg, durable - gold-plated key contacts, no wear even after 50 million keystrokes, a full-size keyboard with a separate numeric keypad, which is mandatory for solid, working devices. Designed for long and intensive use, for which, in addition to paint, deep laser engraving is used when marking the buttons.
The device uses a standard connection via the USB 3.0 interface, comes with an extended cable, does not require drivers and supports function buttons in OS X. As a bonus, there is an integrated volume dial and a solid stand instead of a pair of fragile legs. Made to last and therefore priced accordingly at $175.
Is it fair to compare Apple's $99 and $49 offerings to significantly more expensive keyboards? Perhaps it really makes sense to look in the other direction - the price of the model in the official store is $60. The keyboard catches sunlight and can store it for 3 months of battery life, and the optional silver color of the 8.5 mm thick case is a direct hint at the need for close cooperation with Apple products.
Communication with the Mac is wireless and in the same way you can connect up to 6 Logitech devices to the gadget, such as a mouse, headset, gamepad or, why not, another keyboard.
Bottom line
The review does not pretend to be an ultimate guide to the variety of keyboards for the Mac family of computers, but it is a good opportunity to illustrate the fact that Apple directly produces utilitarian, application devices. Light and beautiful, compared to the luxurious, thoughtful and expensive products from partner companies, the Magic Keyboard and its wired “sister” are like gadgets for emailing. And if you need to issue a modern version of “War and Peace” to the mountain every week, staff a workplace on a distant expedition, ensure coordination of the work of a peripheral set of equipment, or compensate for the user’s physical illness, there are options with a high level of efficiency. For an appropriate fee, of course.