Backlit, full size keyboard options

[bcbickers]

Hello everyone!

I have a 2017 13" tbMBP and currently use a Logitech K811 keyboard which works great, except for one issue: it doesn't have a separate delete key. I spend a lot of time in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Visio (via Win10 VM on Parallels). I need the separate delete key to actually delete objects, clear table contents without deleting rows, align text, and so on. The K811 is fantastic with great key travel, adjustable backlighting with proximity sensor, and really good battery life. I knew it was missing the extra keys when I bought it. I just didn't realize how much that missing key would affect my workflow.

All that being said, does anyone have a recommendation for a good backlit full size keyboard? If so, what do you like about it? What do you dislike? Thanks for the input and advice!

 

[bcbickers]

Neat tip... I was on a call this morning with one of my coworkers who also uses a MBP and mentioned my dilemma with the K811 keyboard. He has the same keyboard and told me about a key combo that provides the very delete function I need: fn-delete. Using this key combo, it treats the backspace key as the delete key on a full sized keyboard. The K811 is such a great keyboard that I was not looking forward to replacing it. Now I don't have to.

 

[chscag]

Just for info sake.... the fn-delete key on the Apple wireless keyboard and the new re-chargeable wireless model works the same way. Too bad that Apple does not have a backlighted wireless keyboard.

 

[fhall1]

https://www.amazon.com/Released-Matias-Wireless-Aluminum-Keyboard/dp/B07215RSDT

 

[chscag]

A bit pricey but the Silver - Black model looks really nice and Matias has a good reputation when it comes to keyboards.

 

[fhall1]

Not sure on the reputation as far as build quality - looking at the Amazon reviews it seems to be a crapshoot if you will wind up with a problem or not. That and the cost is what's keeping me from ordering one.

 

[chscag]

I would imagine the reviews are for previous models since this one just came out. However, the point is well taken about reputation especially if reviews on older models are not all that good. I do agree about the price. My experience with Matias is strictly with their older model (the old click noisy models with the built in USB ports). The best keyboard I ever owned was an IBM PS2 model which weighed a ton and could be heard from 50 feet away.

 

[fhall1]

This has been out a few months now, so I'm pretty sure those 26 reviews (currently) are for the new, backlit model, since the older, non-backlit models have their own listing with over a hundred reviews. The one review posted today talks about a key falling off after a month and a half - and Matias hasn't commented on the issues since October - that really puts me off.

 

[mdbradigan]

Fwiw - I too was annoyed with the lack of backlit mac keyboards. Currently using a Cooler Master Quickfire Ultimate (windows keyboard) with my MBP and it works great once you change the modifier keys. So - feel free to use Windows keyboards (is the gist of this note) if you can't find a Mac one you like.