Microsoft has launched an updated version of its Surface Pro keyboard. This new model replaces the menu key with a dedicated Copilot button but carries a much higher cost.
Following the plethora of in-Windows ads, the continuous push to upgrade to Windows 11, and lofty AI features demanding ever-higher system requirements, the Redmond giant has now launched an updated Surface Pro keyboard at £439 / $449.98 / €529.99. It’s hard not to feel like Microsoft is on some sort of crusade to annoy its customers.
As its name implies, the Surface Pro Flex Keyboard is a detachable typer that connects to Microsoft’s Surface Pro tablets. It also comes bundled with the brand’s second-generation ‘Slim Pen’, which offers improved haptic feedback. As far as we can tell, this is the same keyboard and pen sold previously, just with a dedicated Copilot button in place of the menu key, a battery-powered/wireless mode, plus a haptic touchpad.
For comparison, the original Surface Pro Signature Keyboard with Slim Pen 2 costs £259.99. That’s a £179 difference for wireless connectivity and a glorified button change. A button with the sole purpose of summoning Microsoft Copilot AI, something that I bet can be done using a regular macro. Even at £259.99, this keyboard and pen combo is still expensive for what it is, so wanting more is certainly a choice.
Price aside, Microsoft claims up to 41 hours of continuous typing while detached, which is not bad for such a slim design. Lastly, the Surface Pro Flex Keyboard with Slim Pen is compatible with the Surface Pro, Surface Pro 9, and Surface Pro 8 running Windows 11.
Microsoft offers the Surface Pro Flex Keyboard with Slim Pen in Black or Bright Sapphire colourways. The latter is admittedly nice to look at it, unlike its price. But, jokes aside, we can’t help but wonder what’s going on at Microsoft lately given its recent decisions and product releases like this.
