Microsoft New Modern Keyboard: What to Know

Microsoft’s newest keyboards, including the updated Surface Keyboard and the Microsoft Designer Compact Keyboard, focus on a cleaner, more minimal design with quieter keys, improved Bluetooth connectivity, and better battery life. They are designed for both Windows 11 and other platforms, with a key layout that adds shortcuts for emoji, screen capture, and other modern features. This article explains what makes these keyboards different, how they connect, and how to choose the right one.

Formula

The calculator above estimates your typing speed in words per minute based on the average time between keypresses and the physical travel distance of each key. The formula is:

Typing speed (WPM) = (60,000 / time in ms) × (distance in mm / 5)

• t = time between keypresses in milliseconds (ms)
• d = key travel distance in millimeters (mm)
• 5 = average word length in characters (including spaces)

This is a rough estimate; actual typing speed depends on accuracy, pauses, and the text being typed.

Worked Example

Using the default values from the calculator (t = 50 ms, d = 2.5 mm):

1. Convert time to minutes: 50 ms = 0.05 seconds = 0.000833 minutes
2. Characters per minute = 1 / 0.000833 = 1200 characters per minute
3. Words per minute = 1200 / 5 = 240 WPM

So with a 50 ms gap between keystrokes, you’d be typing about 240 words per minute—far above average, but the formula assumes no pauses and perfect accuracy.

Background: Microsoft’s Keyboard Evolution

Microsoft has been making keyboards for decades, from the classic Natural Keyboard to the modern Surface line. The “new modern� keyboards refer to the refreshed Surface Keyboard (released around 2020) and the more compact Designer Compact Keyboard (2020). These replaced older models like the Surface Keyboard with Fingerprint ID and the wedge-shaped Designer Keyboard.

Key changes include:

• Quieter, softer key switches (membrane-based)
• Improved Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity (better range and stability)
• USB-C charging instead of AAA batteries (on the Surface Keyboard)
• Dedicated keys for emoji, screen snip, and Office shortcuts
• More sustainable materials (recycled plastics in some models)

These keyboards are not mechanical; they use a scissor-switch mechanism that provides a short, quiet travel distance (about 1.5–2.5 mm).

How the New Keyboards Work

All current Microsoft keyboards use Bluetooth to connect wirelessly. You pair them like any Bluetooth device:

1. Turn on the keyboard (switch on the side or top).
2. Press and hold the pairing button (usually on the back) until the LED blinks.
3. On your PC, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Add device.
4. Select the keyboard from the list.

The Surface Keyboard also supports connecting to up to three devices and switching with a button. It uses a USB-C cable for charging, and a full charge lasts about 4 months with typical use. The Designer Compact Keyboard uses two AAA batteries (included) that last up to 6 months.

Windows 11 recognizes these keyboards automatically and shows a battery indicator in Settings. The dedicated keys work without extra software, but you can install the Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center to remap keys or adjust settings.

How to Choose Between Models

Microsoft currently sells two “modern� keyboards (as of 2024):

• Surface Keyboard – full-size, with numeric keypad, backlit keys, USB-C charging. Good for desktop use and long typing sessions.
• Designer Compact Keyboard – smaller, no numeric keypad, uses AAA batteries, not backlit. Good for travel and small desks.

Consider these factors:

• Do you need a number pad? If yes, get the Surface Keyboard.
• Do you type in the dark? The Surface Keyboard is backlit; the Designer is not.
• Do you prefer rechargeable or replaceable batteries? Surface uses USB-C; Designer uses AAA.
• Do you need to connect to multiple devices? Both support up to 3 Bluetooth connections.

If you want a mechanical feel, these are not for you. They are quiet and soft, which many people find comfortable but some find too mushy.

Common Problems and Fixes

Users report a few common issues with Microsoft’s modern keyboards:

• Keyboard not connecting – Make sure it’s charged (or has fresh batteries), then remove the device from Bluetooth settings and pair again.
• Keys not responding – Try a different USB port for the receiver (if using the Surface Keyboard with the USB receiver instead of Bluetooth). Also check for debris under keys.
• Battery drains quickly – Turn off the keyboard when not in use (the switch on the side). Also, the backlight on the Surface Keyboard can be turned off to save battery.
• Sticky keys – Clean with compressed air or a damp cloth (unplugged). Don’t use liquids directly.

If problems persist, Microsoft’s support site offers firmware updates for the Surface Keyboard. Always install the latest Windows updates, as they often include driver fixes.

Comparison: Microsoft vs. Other Brands

Compared to Apple’s Magic Keyboard, the Microsoft Surface Keyboard is wider and has a more traditional layout. It lacks Touch ID (on the non-fingerprint version) and uses USB-C instead of Lightning. Logitech’s MX Keys is a popular alternative with similar features but also has a built-in numeric keypad and smart backlighting.

Key differences:

• Microsoft Surface Keyboard – Backlit, USB-C, good for Windows, but no multi-device easy-switch buttons (you use a key combo).
• Logitech MX Keys – Backlit, USB-C, can connect via Bluetooth or Logi Bolt receiver, has Easy-Switch keys for 3 devices, but is heavier and more expensive.
• Apple Magic Keyboard – Sleek, but only works well with macOS/iOS, uses Lightning, and has a shallow key travel.

For Windows users, the Microsoft keyboard is the most seamless choice, especially with the dedicated Windows keys. For cross-platform users, Logitech’s multi-device features are more convenient.

Safety and Maintenance

These keyboards are safe to use, but follow basic precautions:

• Keep liquids away; spills can damage the circuit board.
• Clean with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Do not use alcohol or abrasive cleaners.
• Do not disassemble the keyboard; it contains a battery that should only be replaced by professionals.
• If the keyboard gets hot, smells, or swells, stop using it and contact support.

For the Surface Keyboard, the built-in battery is not user-replaceable. The Designer Compact Keyboard uses standard AAA batteries, which are easy to replace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Microsoft’s new keyboards mechanical?

No. They use scissor-switch membrane keys, which are quieter and have shorter travel than mechanical switches. If you want a mechanical feel, look at the Microsoft Surface Keyboard with the “premium� switches, but that model is not currently sold as a standalone keyboard.

Can I use the Surface Keyboard with a Mac?

Yes, it connects via Bluetooth and works with macOS, but some Windows-specific keys (like the Windows key) will act as Command. You won’t get the same function keys, and some shortcuts may not work.

How long does the battery last?

The Surface Keyboard lasts about 4 months on a full charge with normal use. The Designer Compact Keyboard lasts about 6 months with two AAA batteries. Backlighting reduces battery life significantly.

Does the Surface Keyboard have a fingerprint reader?

There is a version with a fingerprint reader, but it’s not the “new modern� model. The current Surface Keyboard (without fingerprint) does not have one. The fingerprint version is still sold separately.

Can I remap the keys?

Yes, you can use the Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center software to remap keys, but it’s only available for Windows. The software lets you assign functions to the F1-F12 keys and the dedicated emoji/screenshot keys.

Is the keyboard water-resistant?

No. It is not rated for water resistance. Spills can damage it. If you spill something, unplug/remove batteries immediately and let it dry completely before using again.

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in t | Time between keypresses | ms | 50 | 0
in d | Distance per keypress | mm | 2.5 | 0
out speed | Typing speed | words/min | (60000 / t) * (d / 5) | 1