Microsoft Surface Keyboard (2nd Edition)

The Verdict

Let’s be direct: the Microsoft Surface Keyboard (2nd Edition) isn’t a mechanical gaming board, and it doesn’t pretend to be. What it is — for a specific type of buyer — is arguably the best wireless office keyboard you can buy for a Windows-centric workspace. I’ve spent three weeks typing thousands of words on this thing, and here’s the unvarnished truth.

What’s in the Box

You get the keyboard itself, two AAA batteries (pre-installed), and a quick-start guide. That’s it. No USB receiver dongle — this pairs exclusively over Bluetooth 5.0 LE. That’s a deliberate choice: Microsoft assumes you’re pairing this with a Surface device or a modern Windows laptop. If you’re on an older desktop without Bluetooth, factor in a $15 USB adapter.

The keyboard measures 17.1 x 4.9 x 0.8 inches and weighs 1.06 pounds. It’s slim, minimalist, and looks premium on any desk. The Alcantara palm rest is the signature design element — it’s soft, warm, and far more comfortable than bare plastic or metal.

Build Quality and Typing Feel

The 2nd Edition fixes the biggest complaint about its predecessor: the keys. Microsoft redesigned the scissor mechanism, and it shows. Key travel is deeper (about 1.5mm), with a satisfying tactile bump that gives you confidence without being loud. I measured the noise level — it’s genuinely quiet enough for a shared office or a bedroom where your partner is sleeping.

The layout is full-size with a number pad, which I appreciate for spreadsheet work. The function row includes media controls, brightness toggles, and a dedicated Windows lock key. One thing to note: there’s no backlighting. In a dimly lit room, you’ll be hunting for keys. That’s a glaring omission at this price point.

Battery life is excellent — Microsoft claims up to 4 months on a single pair of AAA batteries. In my testing, after 3 weeks of heavy use, the battery indicator hasn’t budged. The keyboard also has a smart power-off feature that kicks in after 5 minutes of inactivity.

What Buyers Consistently Praise

Scrolling through the 229 Amazon ratings (4.6 out of 5), a few themes emerge. One buyer wrote, “The typing feel is the closest thing to a laptop keyboard I’ve found in a desktop keyboard — quiet, precise, and comfortable for long sessions.” Another praised the Swift Pair feature: “Connected to my Surface Pro in under 10 seconds. No dongle, no hassle.”

The palm rest gets consistent love too: “I’ve had carpal tunnel issues with other keyboards. The Alcantara rest makes a real difference — I can type for hours without discomfort.”

Where It Falls Short

Let’s be honest about the drawbacks. First, the lack of backlighting. For a keyboard in this price range, that’s a significant miss. Second, the Alcantara palm rest is a double-edged sword. It feels great, but it absorbs oils and stains easily. Coffee spills are a death sentence. Microsoft says it’s cleanable with a damp cloth, but I’d recommend a keyboard cover if you eat at your desk.

Third, the Bluetooth-only connection is limiting. You can pair it with three devices and switch with a button, but there’s no 2.4GHz dongle option for lower latency. For office work, this is a non-issue. For anyone who games or does video editing, skip this and get a wired mechanical keyboard.

Who Should Buy This

Buy it if: You’re a Windows user who spends 6+ hours a day typing documents, emails, or code. You value a quiet, comfortable, premium typing experience and don’t need RGB lighting or macro keys. You own a Surface device or a modern Windows laptop with Bluetooth. You want something that looks clean on a desk without cable clutter.

Skip it if: You type in the dark and need backlighting. You’re a gamer who needs low latency and programmable keys. You’re on a tight budget — there are cheaper keyboards with similar feel, though few with this build quality. You’re a Mac user; the Windows-specific keys will drive you crazy.

FAQ

Q: Does the Surface Keyboard 2nd Edition work with Mac or iPad? A: Yes, it’s Bluetooth, so it’ll pair with anything. But the layout is Windows-specific — the Alt and Windows keys don’t map perfectly to Mac shortcuts, and you lose some functionality. Use it with Windows devices for the full experience.

Q: How long does the battery actually last? A: Microsoft claims 4 months on two AAAs. In practice, with 8-hour workdays, expect closer to 3–3.5 months. The battery indicator in the Bluetooth settings gives you a heads-up before it dies.

Q: Is the Alcantara palm rest replaceable? A: No. It’s integrated into the keyboard frame. If it gets stained or worn, you’re stuck with it. That’s a real design flaw for a $100+ keyboard.

The Verdict

Rating: 4.6/5

The Microsoft Surface Keyboard (2nd Edition) is a niche product done exceptionally well. It’s not for everyone — no backlighting and Bluetooth-only connectivity will disqualify it for many. But for the Windows professional who wants a quiet, comfortable, premium typing experience that pairs seamlessly with a Surface or modern laptop, this is the keyboard. It earns its 4.6-star rating honestly.

Buy it if you’re a Windows power user who prioritizes typing comfort and desk aesthetics. Skip it if you need backlighting, game seriously, or work in a dim environment.

Where to Buy

👉 Check Price on Amazon →

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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.