Microsoft’s New Keyboard Includes Fingerprint Login and Poor Ergonomics
Microsoft has cleverly integrated a fingerprint reader into its latest keyboard accessory, but has removed some important aspects of what makes their keyboard lineup easy to use. It’s great for quick sign-in and definitely looks cool, but typing may not be the most convenient.
Made for one-click login
The new $ 129 modern keyboard features a cleverly disguised fingerprint sensor to the right of the right Alt key. Its fingerprint sensor is compatible with Windows Hello , Microsoft’s biometric sign-in feature that lets you sign in to your Windows device with your face or fingerprint (although you’ll need Windows Hello-compatible hardware). Once you’ve enrolled your fingerprints, you can log in with Windows Hello fingerprint authentication without a password, saving you time and the hassle of accidental memory loss.
It also works with apps that support Windows Hello, so you can approve app purchases with a single keystroke. With both wired and Bluetooth connectivity, this seems like a sensible upgrade that will allow more people to use Windows Hello without having to buy a new laptop or expensive webcam to add to their PC.
According to the specifications, it is fully compatible with macOS 10.10.5, 10.11.1 and 10.11.4. Its Android and iOS compatibility options look odd as it only works with iOS 8 and 9, Android 4.2 devices, Android 4.4.4 on the Nexus 5, and Android 5.0 on the Nexus 9.
Ergonomic nightmare
It looks pretty, but there is a good chance it will feel bad. plagued by Microsoft keyboards with the same problem plaguing the Apple desktop keyboard (and just about every other keyboard around): ergonomics.
Which is odd, because Microsoft has tackled its keyboard ergonomics issues by releasing two different, weird-looking keyboards. The surface of the ergonomic keyboard features Alcantara-coated palms , a durable material Microsoft has added to its surface Pro keyboard covers, along with a curved design that allows you to keep your wrist in a more neutral position. Even the space bar is curved, and sliced in half to accommodate each of your thumbs.
Microsoft’s new modern keyboard spans several pages (or chapters) from Apple’s keyboard design. They ditched the Alcantara fabric – which was pretty ugly. But they also got rid of the rest of the rest, with palm tree design options more convoluted. Last time I checked the palm remains were pretty helpful in preventing the edges of your desk from digging into your hands.