The new keyboard from mobile and desktop equipment manufacturer Kensington features solid yet silent mechanical keys that recall the feel of typewriters from another era – but it’s a contemporary, wireless product with many modern features.
For example, the new MK7500F QuietType Pro Silent Mechanical Keyboard comes with software that supports programmability and personalization in either Windows or MacOS environments.
Power typists who want to be able to customize their keyboard and map certain keys with special workflow functions can now do so; those who appreciate the tactile feel and feedback of a fully-functioning mechanical keyboard can enjoy it without disturbing work-at-home mates or office colleagues.
To deliver ‘clickety’ key stroke sounds that are still audibly softer than normal conversation or quiet background music, along with a tactile feel of solid contact with the keys without wielding undo force, the MK7500F keyboard uses what are known as Kailh Midnight Pro Silent Tactile switches, with their internal five-part structure, as well as sound dampening muffler pads. They’re combined in this keyboard package to deliver a physically satisfying typing experience.
The keys are arranged in a full-size QWERTY layout, which is supplemented by a separate numeric keypad, a cluster of cursor command arrows and a row of special function and media keys.
All-day typing comfort is supported physically by the keyboard itself – its solid, weighty aluminum frame has dual position flip-out feet that set to either five or seven degrees of angle for arm and wrist support. It also comes with a separate, supportive gelatin wrist rest pad. The easy-to-see laser-etched ABS keycaps have controllable white backlighting. And an included full-size silicone keyboard dust cover adds to the impressive overall physical package.
The keyboard customization software is an impressive package, too. The freely downloadable Kensington Konnect with Meeting Controls package can be used to create a keyboard that works just how a typist wants it (multiple profiles can be set-up, managed and stored if needed).
The Windows or MacOS compatible program lets the typist remap or reprogram any of the keys to do virtually anything. Function keys can be set up to execute a series of sequenced keystrokes. Video conferencing commands are immediately accessible. Keyboard and mouse functions, editing keys (like cut and paste), macros, even system calls can be programmed.
Oft-used and helpful computer (and user) commands, like Sleep or Log Off, can be set and core OS functions like navigating around the Finder can be accessed. There’s even a popular Snippets function that stores useful phrases – and emojis – in a shortcut.
The MK7500F keyboard has multiple connection options, including Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz USB, and an included USB-A for powering and recharging. The unit will connect to up to five active devices, the manufacturer reports: three via Bluetooth, one on the 2.4GHz USB receiver and one using the USB-A cable.
The keyboard utilizes a sealed IPX4-certified spill-proof design to protect the keyboard from accidental spills. The unit is covered by a three-year limited warranty.
The MK7500F QuietType Pro Silent Mechanical Keyboard, together with the downloadable software package Kensington Konnect with Meeting Controls, is a worthwhile addition to any comfortable and productive workplace, with its many professional features and functions.
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