Everything You Must Know about the New 'Microsoft Modern Keyboard with Fingerprint ID'

Article by George Norman (Cybersecurity Editor)

on 31 Jul 2017

Microsoft has a new keyboard to offer: the new, premium quality Microsoft Modern Keyboard with Fingerprint ID. If you’re not familiar with it, then keep on reading and you’ll uncover pretty much everything there is to know about this keyboard.

Starting with…

1. It’s priced at $130

Before we focus on how this keyboard looks like and what it has to offer, you need to know how much it costs. The keyboard is available for purchase right now on Microsoft’s Store, where it is priced at $129.99.


2. It has a hidden fingerprint sensor

This keyboard carries the name "Microsoft Modern Keyboard with Fingerprint ID" and for good reason: it has a hidden fingerprint sensor in between the right Alt and right Ctrl key. If you’re running Windows 10 on your PC, you can use the fingerprint sensor with Windows Hello, Microsoft’s biometric authentication solution, and unlock your PC with your fingerprint.


3. It has an aluminum frame

"The keyboard’s sleek, low-profile design and crafted aluminum top case bring an element of sophistication to any well-thought-out desk space," explained Jennifer Thompson, Product Marketing Manager, Microsoft Accessories. "With 2mm key travel, the typing experience has been carefully crafted to maximize accuracy and typing efficiency."


4. It works wired and wireless

The new Microsoft Modern Keyboard with Fingerprint ID features a hardwire USB connection and a Bluetooth 4.0 wireless connection. So if you want to use it with a wired connection, you can. And if you want to use it with a wireless connection, you can do that too. According to the official specs, this keyboard’s wireless range goes up to 33 feet or 10 meters.


5. The battery should last for up to 4 months

The battery life that companies present in the official description is always better than what you get in real-life. That being said, Microsoft’s official specs say that this keyboard should last for up to 4 months with each full charge of its rechargeable battery.


6. It looks like this




7. Its only available in silver

As you can see from the video embedded above, the new Microsoft Modern Keyboard with Fingerprint ID is silver. If you were hoping for other color versions, you’re out of luck because there aren’t any. This keyboard is only available in silver.


8. It weighs 14.6 ounces

If you’re planning on carrying this keyboard with you, then you need know how much it weighs: 14.6 ounces or 413.5 grams.


9. It’s compatible with Windows 10 only

Don’t get this keyboard if you’re running Windows 7, Windows 8 or 8.1 and you have no intention of switching to Windows 10. The new Microsoft Modern Keyboard with Fingerprint ID isn’t compatible with any Windows edition other than Windows 10. And it’s not compatible with macOS, Android or iOS either.


10. You could pair it with the Microsoft Modern Mouse

Priced at $49.99 on the Microsoft Store, this mouse beautifully compliments the new Microsoft Modern Keyboard with Fingerprint ID.

"The raised arc of the Microsoft Modern Mouse supports your palm in a natural resting position, and reduces the tension on your [wrist], to keep your hand relaxed as you point and click," said Jennifer Thompson. "The metal scroll wheel feels solid under your finger, and you don’t have to worry about wires thanks to Wireless Bluetooth, plus it has up to 12 months of battery life."





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