For starters, these new models are officially referred to by Apple as (1) the Magic Keyboard With Touch ID For Mac Models With Apple Silicon ( $149/ £149), and (2) the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad for Mac Models with Apple Silicon ( $179/ £179). However, these newer models bring a number of new features that aren’t available on the older Magic keyboards. There’s also a larger version, simply called the MX Keys, which has a separate numeric keypad as well – and this has recently been on sale at the same price as the MX Keys Mini, although it’s not clear if that price cut will turn out to be permanent.Īt first glance, the two Magic Keyboard models launched by Apple in mid-2021 look very similar to the original models – which are still available and reviewed here as well. Logitech’s Options app also allows you to program the Function keys to perform different tasks, such as opening Mail or Safari. The top row of Function keys works automatically with the Mac, allowing you to adjust the backlight, volume and other controls. However, turning the backlight off extends that time to a full five months – far longer than the single month provided by Apple’s Magic Keyboard.

The backlight does drain the keyboard’s rechargeable battery, lasting only 10 days if you have the backlight on full brightness the whole time. The keyboard has a backlight too, with a sensor that automatically activates the backlight as your hands approach the keyboard, and then turn it off after a few seconds when you move away.

Available in a variety of colours, it’s heavier and sturdier than the Magic Keyboard, with firmer keys that feel more responsive when typing. The basic design of the MX Keys Mini is impressive.

And, to be honest, Logitech’s years of experience with mice and keyboards really give it the edge. The latest model in the range is the new MX Keys Mini ( $99.99/ £99.99) and has a compact, low-profile design that clearly pitches it as an alternative to Apple’s own Magic Keyboard. Logitech’s Craft and Ergo K860 keyboards are both designed for specific types of users, but if you’re just looking for a good general-purpose keyboard then its MX Keys range is hard to beat.

Number keypad for macbook pro