I haven’t yet had a chance to test the Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad. However, if you don’t want to shell out $129 for Apple’s keyboard, the $59.95 Kanex MultiSync Keyboard for Mac and iOS is a viable replacement for use with the new iMacs if you don’t like the Magic Keyboard 2.
The wireless keyboard features a sleek design with a Mac layout and can connect up to four Mac and iOS devices at once. Pairing with your macOS and iOS gadgets is easy via Bluetooth 3.0 technology. With its aluminum finish and stainless steel, the MultiSync Keyboard looks great with the new all-in-one and is rugged. And it resembles Apple’s Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad, but with dark keys.
You can adjust screen brightness, volume, play and pause with single touch focus keys on a layout you’re familiar with. You can access Search, Share, Device and Settings on your Mac, iPhone or iPad. Plus, you can adjust the volume, play and pause with media keys.
I don’t use the MultiSync Keyboard with any of my iOS devices (it seems like overkill), but, if you wish to, you can use its Home, Back, Menu and Email keys on your iOS device. You can even pair it with an Apple TV. The MultiSync Keyboard features a full numeric keypad so you can enter numbers, and arrow keys for scrolling through documents.
The 1200mAh rechargeable battery will reportedly run for up to six months (Apple’s full sized keyboard lasts about a month before needing to recharge). The MultiSync Keyboard comes with a micro USB cable; when it needs re-juicing, just plug it into a wall adapter. You can check power levels with the touch of a button, and an LED indicator blinks when the battery is low.
The MultiSync Keyboard has the short travel feel of Apple’s keyboards but the slightly larger keys make it feel a little less cramped. My one wish: I’d love for this to have backlit keys. Otherwise, if you need a keyboard with a numeric keypad, this will serve your needs well.
Apple World Today Rating (out of 5 stars): ★★★★
