Perhaps I’m stuck in a rut, but I still find the Apple Magic Keyboard to be my favorite keyboard simply because of the Touch ID feature.
However, the ProArt Keyboard KD300 from ASUS may be a better alternative for some folks, especially those who like mechanical keyboards. What’s that you ask? A mechanical keyboard is built with individual, spring-activated physical switches under every single key.
Unlike standard (and, usually, less expensive) keyboards that use a uniform rubber sheet to register typing, mechanical keyboards offer distinct tactile feedback, higher durability, and a highly customizable typing experience
The low-profile, aluminum ProArt Keyboard KD300 boasts a built-in customizable touch panel that can be programmed with shortcuts, macros, media controls, and app-specific commands. It supports up to five connected devices (including Mac and Windows computers) and six work profiles, making it easy to jump between setups.
The KD300 has a great design thanks to an ultra-slim 26.8 mm profile and elegant aluminum top casing. The keyboard features a 65% layout, meaning you get arrow keys but no dedicated function row or number pad.
The KD300 offers a great typing experience thanks to its ASUS RX Red Low-Profile optical switches. Thanks to two layers to internal silicon dampening foam, they offer smooth and quiet operation. I like the feel, but I’ve found that some folks find them TOO light, which can occasionally lead to accidental keystrokes during gaming. I’m only a casual gamer (think Apple Arcade games) so this doesn’t affect me, but you have been warned.
The integrated side touch bar on the KD300 can be used for scrolling, zooming, or triggering AI shortcuts. That can be handy, but I found it tough to adjust to the location. Perhaps I’m too old school (or just too old).
Three things really stand out about the KD300. One is the design. Its Black Aerolite look and the aluminum top plate offers a very sophisticated, classy look. It’s also light (just over 600g) but still feels very solid. And the toggle for switching between operation systems is ingenious.
The second outstanding thing about the KD300 is its described battery life. ASUS rates it as good for up to 16 months ((Well, when using 2.4 GHz with backlighting disabled). However, I’ve only had it for a week, so I’ll have to take their word for it.
The third thing is its connectivity options: USB Type-C wired use plus Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless. ASUS rates the KD300 at 1,000 Hz polling in both wired and 2.4 GHz modes, with Bluetooth operating at 133 Hz.
The ProArt Keyboard KD300 costs US$164.99, so it’s actually only slightly more expensive that Magic Keyboard. The Apple accessory is $149.99 or $189.99 for the version with a numeric keypad.
If you can live without the Touch ID feature of the Magic Keyboard, the ProArt Keyboard KD300 offers a lot of bang for the buck.
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