Razer today launched a new top-tier mechanical keyboard peripheral for Apple's 12.9-inch iPad Pro, which packs in PC-like mechanical switches for typing on the tablet (via The Verge). The $169.99 accessory -- which uses Bluetooth to connect to the iPad Pro -- also doubles as a protective case for the tablet when closed, and has a kickstand to perch the device open when the keyboard is in use.
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The "ultra-low-profile mechanical switches" used in the keyboard case replicate the feel and responsiveness of a full-fledged mechanical keyboard, according to Razer, but with the slimmer profile needed for a mobile tablet accessory. The keys are even individually backlit for typing in the dark, and come with 20 levels of illumination power to cycle through depending on the light needed.
This revolutionary technology with slim chiclet keycaps raises the bar for ultra-mobile keyboards. Featuring optimized actuation and reset points and an actuation force of 70g, the world’s first low-profile mechanical switch delivers the exact same performance and feel as a full-fledged mechanical keyboard.
Optimized for multiple viewing angles, Razer noted that the Mechanical Keyboard Case's metal kickstand is "detachable and not limited to a fixed angle," letting users find the perfect position for every typing environment. Concerning battery life, the company claimed that the case gets 10 hours on one charge at the highest-intensity level of keyboard brightness, with the possibility to extend that all the way up to 600 hours by turning the backlight off completely.
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Razer has posted more information about the Mechanical Keyboard Case on its website, and anyone interested can purchase it from the company for $169.99.
Top Rated Comments
(View all)uses Bluetooth to connect to the iPad Pro
And that's where they lost me.I still don't understand the need for backlit keys. Are people still that unaccustomed with their keyboard that they have to look to type? A backlit keyboard just warms my hands (more than I would like) and wastes battery.
Usually not while they type, but since people's hand are usually not on the keyboard 100% of the time, it's useful to look right before you place you hands on it to know which keys are under your fingers initially. I know that's what the nibs on the F and J keys are for, but it's often quicker to quickly glance at the keyboard than the look for the nibs by feel alone. There are also those times where you use less frequent keys and don't know where they are just by memory. Do you think most people would hit the right key on their first attempt if they were asked to press, say, F7 without looking?Okay guys, the BT factor sucks, but this isn't about that. A mechanical keyboard CASE?! I adore my mechanical keyboard for my desktop. The price is what it is because of the key switches. If you have never used a mechanical keyboard, I strongly encourage you to try one out.
I've been a software developer for over 40 years and have (and still) use mechanical keyboards all that time. I get it that hipsters love them (I'm not saying all who love mechanical keyboards are hipsters), but I don't like them. They're ponderous to type on.When I get to use my iMac, Macbook Air, and iPad Pro keyboards, it's a pleasure by comparison. It's the difference between slogging through knee-deep snow without snow-shoes and flittering across a running track. :confused::D
I still don't understand the need for backlit keys. Are people still that unaccustomed with their keyboard that they have to look to type? A backlit keyboard just warms my hands (more than I would like) and wastes battery.
It's not like you have to have the backlight on... it's technically an option. And do those tiny little white LEDs really generate enough heat to make a difference? I'd say it's just your laptop that's hot, not he keyboard. I use a backlit mechanical keyboard at work for 8 hours a day (using it right now) and I've never noticed any heat difference. In fact, my hands are freezing right now...As someone who would connect an IBM Selectric to my desktop if I could use it for my keyboard, I look forward to trying out a demo model of this keyboard. :) Not to buy, just to see how much of a mechanical feel they incorporated into this tiny a case. Weight isn't mentioned in Razer's specs though so I'd imagine this won't be a light keyboard case.