Thomas Sibilly
The Cherry KW 9100 Slim is a full-sized Bluetooth Mac keyboard that claims to be a low-budget alternative to a Magic Keyboard.
In reality, it's not. We find it to be an ordinary mid-price range plastic keyboard with a decent quality.
The KW 9100 is very light at around 1.5 pounds, the heaviest component being the aluminum back-panel inside the keyboard. However, with its status as a full-sized keyboard with a numeric keypad, it's awkward to transport in a laptop bag alongside a MacBook, barely fitting even in our largest laptop bag.
Unlike the Cherry KC 6000C for Mac, the 9100 enjoys Bluetooth features that make it more tolerable for use with modern Macs. The 2-in-1 transmission with Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz RF modes can be adjusted with a flick of a switch, allowing for connection to multiple devices at the same time, which is a plus for multi-device productivity and convenience.
As for battery life, the 650 mAh lithium-ion battery provides good longevity. The included USB-A to USB-C charging cable is workable, but we'd rather it have been USB-C to USB-C given the reality of modern devices. The setup for the RF mode requires a wired connection, making it useful for people who work with PC and Mac.
To compare once again with the similar chassis of the KC 6000C, the plastic keys and scissor switch require a little more force in comparison to Mac and most mechanical keys, making it hard to adjust to those who are used to typing on those kinds of keyboards. We often found this design choice makes typing slightly harder, interrupting focus in long typing sessions.
This, however, is a matter of preference and previous experience. To add, this keyboard is for typists and the productivity-focused, as the feel of the keys make gaming more uncomfortable than typing already is.
The magnetic stand for elevating typing and the quiet switches are welcome features, but this doesn't make up for the overall uneasy feel of the keyboard.
Should you buy the Cherry KW 9100 Slim?
If you are in desperate need of a wireless mid-price range full-size Mac keyboard, and are comfortable with high-force plastic keys, then the Slim may be for you. For around half the price of a full size magic keyboard, the 9100 delivers a decent experience, its convenient features supplementing its irritating typing experience.
Cherry KW 9100 Slim Pros
- Lightweight, thin
- 2-in-1 transmission convenience
- Decent value for build quality
Cherry KW 9100 Slim Cons
- Uncomfortable typing experience
- Limited portability
2.5 out of 5
Thin keyboards are nice, and the wireless connectivity is good, here. But, first and foremost, a keyboard has to be comfortable. While we allow that this keyboard may be comfortable for some, it won't be for most.
The Cherry KW 9100 Slim is available on Amazon for $59.99.
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5 Comments
In your review, you wrote, "However, with its status as a full-sized keyboard with a numeric keypad, it's awkward to transport in a laptop bag alongside a MacBook, barely fitting even in our largest laptop bag." Although not technically incorrect, I believe your observation serves as unwarranted criticism because neither this keyboard nor Apple's own Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad or similar third-party full-size keyboards are likely positioned or marketed as transportable, take-it-with-you keyboards for MacBook users.
Full-sized keyboards (even the wireless variety) are much more likely to remain stationary on a desk at home or work, even when paired with a MacBook. For people who want a more portable wireless keyboard, Apple offers the regular Magic Keyboard (without numeric keypad), and there are third-party competitors like the Satechi Slim X1 Bluetooth Backlit Keyboard. Such products are much more likely to be transported "in a laptop bag alongside a MacBook."
If your review's final score factored in the transportability of the keyboard, the appropriate thing to do would be to remove that factor from your equation and potentially give the product a better score than 2.5 out of 5. If your review's score did not factor in the keyboard's transportability, consider removing that sentence from your review.
Just get a used or refurbished Magic Keyboard. I am still using my Apple Wireless Keyboard from 09’. Built like a tank
So many keyboard reviews here recently. Is this really a big market?