The Surface Pro is undoubtedly one of the most popular 2-in-1 laptops on the market, known for its sleek design, impressive performance, and versatility. One of the most distinctive features of the Surface Pro is its detachable keyboard, which allows users to switch seamlessly between laptop and tablet modes. However, one question that has puzzled many users is: Does the Surface Pro keyboard have a backlight? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of keyboard backlights and explore the answer to this question in-depth.
The Importance of Backlit Keyboards
Before we dive into the specifics of the Surface Pro keyboard, it’s essential to understand the significance of backlit keyboards. In today’s digital age, we’re constantly working, gaming, or browsing in various environments, often with limited lighting. This can lead to eye strain, fatigue, and reduced productivity. Backlit keyboards aim to alleviate these issues by illuminating the keys, making it easier to type in low-light conditions.
Backlit keyboards offer several benefits, including:
- Improved visibility: Evenly lit keys enable users to type with greater accuracy and speed, regardless of the ambient lighting.
- Reduced eye strain: By reducing the need to constantly adjust to changing lighting conditions, backlit keyboards help minimize eye fatigue and discomfort.
- Enhanced gaming experience: For gamers, backlit keyboards provide a competitive edge, allowing them to focus on the game rather than struggling to see the keys.
Surface Pro Keyboard: A Closer Look
Now that we’ve established the importance of backlit keyboards, let’s examine the Surface Pro keyboard in more detail. The Surface Pro Type Cover, as it’s officially known, is a detachable keyboard designed to work in tandem with the Surface Pro tablet. This stylish and durable keyboard features a sleek, aluminosilver design that perfectly complements the Surface Pro’s premium aesthetic.
One of the standout features of the Surface Pro keyboard is its exceptional typing experience. The keys are well-spaced, with a comfortable 1.3mm travel distance, making it ideal for long typing sessions. The keyboard also features a precision touchpad, allowing users to navigate and interact with their device with ease.
Does the Surface Pro Keyboard Have a Backlight?
So, does the Surface Pro keyboard have a backlight? Unfortunately, the answer is no. The Surface Pro Type Cover does not feature a backlit keyboard. This may come as a disappointment to those who rely heavily on backlit keyboards, especially in low-light environments.
However, it’s essential to note that this may not be a deal-breaker for everyone. The Surface Pro is designed to be a versatile device, and many users may find that they rarely need to use their keyboard in low-light conditions. Additionally, the Surface Pro’s stunning PixelSense touchscreen display provides an excellent typing experience, even in the absence of a backlit keyboard.
Why Microsoft Omitted the Backlight
There are several reasons why Microsoft may have chosen to exclude a backlight from the Surface Pro keyboard. One possible explanation is that the company prioritized portability and battery life over the added feature. The Surface Pro is designed to be a lightweight, on-the-go device, and the omission of a backlight may have helped reduce the overall weight and power consumption of the device.
Another potential reason is that Microsoft may have focused on optimizing the keyboard for use in well-lit environments, such as offices or coffee shops, where backlit keyboards are less essential. By doing so, the company may have aimed to create a more streamlined and cost-effective design.
Alternative Solutions for Low-Light Typing
While the Surface Pro keyboard may not have a backlight, there are still ways to type comfortably in low-light environments. Here are a few alternative solutions:
External Keyboards with Backlights
One option is to use an external keyboard with a backlight. There are many excellent keyboards on the market that offer high-quality backlights, and some are even specifically designed for use with the Surface Pro. By connecting an external keyboard to your Surface Pro, you can enjoy the benefits of a backlit typing experience without sacrificing portability.
Screen-Based Solutions
Another solution is to utilize screen-based tools to assist with low-light typing. For example, you can adjust the brightness and contrast of your Surface Pro’s screen to improve visibility in dimly lit environments. Additionally, some third-party apps offer customizable keyboard themes and lighting effects that can help illuminate your typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Surface Pro keyboard may not have a backlight, it’s essential to consider the device’s overall design and features in context. The Surface Pro is a remarkable device that offers an exceptional typing experience, even in the absence of a backlit keyboard. By exploring alternative solutions, such as external keyboards or screen-based tools, users can still enjoy a comfortable and productive typing experience in low-light environments.
Ultimately, the decision to omit a backlight from the Surface Pro keyboard may have been a deliberate design choice, driven by considerations of portability, battery life, and cost-effectiveness. As users, it’s essential to weigh the importance of a backlit keyboard against the many other benefits that the Surface Pro has to offer.
What is the purpose of the Surface Pro keyboard’s backlight?
The primary purpose of the Surface Pro keyboard’s backlight is to illuminate the keys in low-light environments, making it easier to type and navigate. This feature is particularly useful for users who work or travel in environments with minimal lighting, such as airplanes, coffee shops, or meeting rooms.
The backlight also adds to the overall user experience, providing a premium feel to the keyboard. It’s a thoughtful design element that shows Microsoft’s attention to detail and commitment to creating a high-quality typing experience.
How do I turn on the backlight on my Surface Pro keyboard?
To turn on the backlight on your Surface Pro keyboard, you’ll need to press the Fn key + Spacebar simultaneously. This will toggle the backlight on and off. You can also adjust the brightness level of the backlight by pressing the Fn key + Up/Down arrow keys.
Note that the backlight settings can also be adjusted through the Windows Settings app. To do this, go to Devices > Keyboard, and then toggle the “Keyboard lighting” switch to the “On” position. From here, you can also adjust the brightness level and set a schedule for the backlight to turn on and off automatically.
Can I adjust the brightness of the backlight?
Yes, you can adjust the brightness of the backlight on your Surface Pro keyboard. As mentioned earlier, you can do this by pressing the Fn key + Up/Down arrow keys. This will allow you to increase or decrease the brightness level to your liking.
Alternatively, you can adjust the brightness level through the Windows Settings app. Go to Devices > Keyboard, and then use the “Brightness” slider to adjust the level to your preference. You can choose from a range of brightness levels, from very dim to very bright.
Is the backlight available on all Surface Pro keyboards?
No, the backlight is not available on all Surface Pro keyboards. The backlight is a feature that’s specific to the Type Cover keyboard, which is designed specifically for the Surface Pro. The Type Cover is a premium keyboard that offers a range of features, including the backlight, Alcantara fabric, and a large glass trackpad.
If you’re using a different keyboard with your Surface Pro, it may not have a backlight. However, you can consider purchasing a Type Cover keyboard if you need the backlight feature.
Does the backlight drain the battery?
Yes, the backlight on the Surface Pro keyboard does consume battery power. However, the impact on battery life is relatively minimal. According to Microsoft, the backlight consumes around 1-2% of the battery life per hour, depending on the brightness level and usage patterns.
To minimize the impact on battery life, you can adjust the brightness level to a lower setting or turn off the backlight when it’s not needed. You can also set a schedule for the backlight to turn off automatically when you’re not using the keyboard.
Can I customize the backlight settings?
Yes, you can customize the backlight settings on your Surface Pro keyboard. Through the Windows Settings app, you can set a schedule for the backlight to turn on and off automatically. You can choose from a range of schedules, including specific times of the day or when you’re in a certain location.
You can also customize the backlight settings to turn on automatically when you start typing or when the ambient light sensor detects a change in the lighting environment. This can be done through the Windows Settings app or through third-party apps that offer custom keyboard settings.
Is the backlight available on other Surface devices?
Yes, the backlight is available on other Surface devices, including the Surface Laptop and Surface Book. The backlight is a standard feature on the keyboards of these devices, and it can be adjusted and customized in a similar way to the Surface Pro keyboard.
However, it’s worth noting that the backlight settings may vary slightly between devices, so you may need to check the specific device’s settings to learn more about customizing the backlight.