Microsoft’s Peripheral Designs Are Back in Action Thanks to Incase

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After purchasing Microsoft’s PC accessory line, Incase recently revealed a novel ergonomic keyboard at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025. Known as ‘Designed by Microsoft’, this keyboard boasts a split, curved design, an exclusive Copilot key, and a padded wrist rest. The new ergonomic keyboard is slated for release in early 2025, priced approximately at $120.

2023 marked a change in direction for Microsoft, with them prioritizing their Surface line’s accessories, ending the manufacture of their own-branded PC peripherals. Jump to 2025, Incase is stepping in to maintain that legacy, keeping production alive for the discontinued accessories, even some unlaunched products. Though they now bear the Incase label, these accessories retain the same components and supply chains as Microsoft did.

Meet the New Incase Compact Ergonomic Keyboard

Designed by Microsoft, Made by Incase

The “Compact Ergonomic Keyboard,” designed by Microsoft, is the newest accessory from Incase. Originally created by Microsoft as part of its ergonomic accessory range, it was set to be unveiled when Microsoft decided to discontinue its non-Surface peripherals. In an interview with ZDNet, Charlie Tebele, CEO of Incase’s parent company, mentioned that “Microsoft had invested in its development and planned to showcase it as a new addition to their product line.

This keyboard, similar to the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Wireless Desktop Keyboard, sports a divided and curved layout to encourage good posture during typing and provide comfort. Unlike many alternatives, it lacks an integrated number pad, making it more space-efficient. Additionally, it comes with an inbuilt wrist rest for additional comfort. Despite employing a scissor mechanism like most office keyboards, Incase suggests that it offers a more reactive typing experience due to a reduced 1.3mm key travel distance.

Although there are plenty of ergo keyboards available, the Incase Compact Ergonomic Keyboard stands out with some extra features, making it a great choice for office work and productivity. It sports a dedicated Copilot button that gives easy access to Microsoft’s AI-enhanced assistant. Additionally, it offers quick shortcuts for functions like emojis and call muting, and it can link up with as many as three devices at once.

This Bluetooth-enabled keyboard, as Incase suggests, can run on two AA batteries that have an impressive lifespan of up to 36 months. Notably, it is officially compatible with Windows 10 and 11, but it’s also likely to function well with Mac and Linux systems. However, its absence of a number pad might pose a challenge for many users. Despite this minor drawback, it proves to be an excellent ergonomic keyboard, particularly beneficial for multi-taskers and productivity enthusiasts.

Availability and Pricing

The Incase Compact Ergonomic Keyboard will soon hit the market at a price of $120. Although it may appear somewhat pricey for a non-mechanical keyboard, it’s important to note that it is competitively priced when compared to similar ergonomic alternatives. For instance, the Logitech ERGO K860, another split-layout keyboard, retails at $130, and high-end options like the Nuphy Flow can cost even more.

Beyond keyboards, Incase is also developing additional accessories ‘Created by Microsoft’, such as headsets, webcams, and mice. At present, there are three mice up for sale on the Incase website, all in the same pastel hues as the original Microsoft-branded models. Further keyboards and headsets will be introduced later this year.

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2025-01-10 16:08