Best Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Keyboard: Top Type Cover Options
Ugh, is your Surface Pro 4 keyboard acting up? It’s super frustrating when you’re trying to get work done or just browse the web, and your typing experience is being ruined by a sticky key or a laggy trackpad. You need a reliable connection and a comfortable feel, especially if you rely on your Surface for productivity.
Finding the right replacement can feel like a chore, sifting through endless options. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back! We’re diving into some of the most popular and well-regarded keyboards out there that will make your Surface Pro 4 feel brand new again. Let’s find you the best Microsoft Surface Pro 4 keyboard that fits your needs and budget.
The 10 Best Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Keyboard Reviewed
1. Microsoft Type Cover for Surface Pro 4/5/6/7
As someone who relies heavily on my Surface Pro for work, the official Microsoft Type Cover has always been my go-to. The build quality feels premium, with a nice textured fabric that offers good grip and a pleasant feel under the fingers. The keys themselves have a satisfying travel and a quiet, yet distinct, click that makes typing feel accurate and efficient.
I particularly appreciate the integrated trackpad; it’s responsive and large enough for comfortable navigation without feeling cramped. The magnetic attachment to the Surface Pro is strong, ensuring it stays firmly in place even when I’m using it on my lap. However, I did find that the fabric can attract dust and pet hair quite easily, requiring regular cleaning to keep it looking pristine.
This Type Cover is ideal for professionals and students who need a reliable and comfortable typing experience on the go. It transforms the Surface Pro into a capable laptop replacement for everyday tasks. If you demand a solid, integrated solution without any fuss, this is a strong contender.
Pros
- Excellent key travel and tactile feedback.
- Premium build quality and fabric finish.
- Responsive and well-sized trackpad.
Cons
- Fabric surface attracts dust and debris.
2. Microsoft Type Cover for Surface Pro
The original Microsoft Type Cover for Surface Pro is a classic for a reason. When I first got my hands on one, the slim profile and lightweight design immediately impressed me. It folds back neatly behind the screen when not in use, making it incredibly portable. The keys offer a decent typing experience, though they are shallower than some of the later iterations, which might be a preference point for some users.
I found the trackpad to be functional for basic navigation, but it lacks the precision and multi-touch gestures that I’ve come to expect from more modern trackpads. It gets the job done for quick clicks and scrolling, but extensive cursor work can feel a bit tedious. My primary annoyance was the slightly hollow sound the keys made when typing quickly, which, while not disruptive, is noticeable.
This is a solid choice for casual users who primarily use their Surface Pro for web browsing and light productivity. If you’re looking for a no-frills keyboard that adds basic typing functionality without much bulk, this will suffice. However, power users might find its limitations apparent.
Pros
- Very slim and lightweight design.
- Folds neatly behind the screen.
- Affordable entry point for typing.
Cons
- Shallower key travel.
- Trackpad lacks advanced features and precision.
3. Wireless Keyboard Type Cover Trackpad Mouse Replacement for Microsoft Surface
When searching for the best Microsoft Surface Pro 4 keyboard, I often come across third-party options like this wireless combo. This particular unit aims to provide a full typing and navigation experience without the direct connection of an official Type Cover. The keyboard itself has a decent layout, and I noticed the keys have a soft, somewhat mushy feel, which might appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. The integrated trackpad is a nice addition, offering basic cursor control.
The wireless connectivity is generally stable, but I did experience occasional brief dropouts, especially when other Bluetooth devices were active in the vicinity. This can be frustrating when you’re in the middle of typing a sentence or trying to make a precise selection. The overall build quality feels less premium than official Microsoft accessories; the plastic has a slightly cheaper sheen and flexes more than I’d prefer.
This product is best suited for users who are on a tight budget and need a functional keyboard and trackpad for their Surface Pro, but are willing to compromise on build quality and occasional connectivity hiccups. If you absolutely cannot afford an official Type Cover and need basic input methods, it’s worth considering, but be prepared for a less refined experience.
Pros
- Includes keyboard, trackpad, and mouse functionality.
- Generally offers a quiet typing experience.
- More budget-friendly than official options.
Cons
- Occasional wireless connectivity issues.
- Lower build quality compared to official accessories.
- Key feel can be described as mushy.
4. Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Type Cover
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Type Cover is a direct descendant of the original, and it shows in its refinement. The keys offer a satisfying amount of travel, and the tactile feedback is excellent, making it a pleasure to type on for extended periods. I found the spacing between the keys to be just right, reducing accidental presses. The fabric finish remains a highlight, providing a comfortable and secure grip.
The trackpad on this model is a significant improvement over earlier versions, offering smoother scrolling and more accurate multi-touch gestures. It truly bridges the gap between a tablet and a laptop. My only minor gripe is that the F1-F12 keys, while functional, feel a bit smaller than the alphanumeric keys, which can sometimes lead to mis-hits when using shortcut combinations.
This Type Cover is perfect for anyone who uses their Surface Pro 4 for substantial writing, coding, or any task requiring frequent and accurate typing. It provides a laptop-like experience that is hard to beat for a detachable keyboard. Avoid this if you only plan on occasional light typing and find dedicated function keys crucial.
Pros
- Excellent key feel and responsiveness.
- Improved trackpad accuracy and gestures.
- Durable and comfortable fabric cover.
Cons
- Function keys are slightly smaller than main keys.
5. Surface Pro Keyboard, Wireless Type Cover for Microsoft Surface Pro
This wireless Type Cover aims to offer versatility by providing a keyboard and trackpad experience for various Surface Pro models, including the Pro 4. The keys have a soft, quiet actuation, which I found to be quite pleasant for late-night work sessions to avoid disturbing others. The magnetic attachment is strong, ensuring it stays put when you need it for typing. The included trackpad works adequately for basic navigation, though it’s not the most precise I’ve used.
The wireless aspect is convenient, eliminating cable clutter, but I did notice a slight delay on occasion when waking the device from sleep. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it breaks the flow when you’re eager to get back to work. The overall construction feels sturdy enough for daily use, but the plastic used for the body doesn’t feel as robust as the official Microsoft accessories.
This keyboard is a good option for users who prioritize a wireless connection and a quiet typing experience, and perhaps need a solution that might be compatible with a wider range of Surface Pro generations. However, if you require absolute responsiveness and the highest build quality, you might want to stick with official Microsoft peripherals.
Pros
- Quiet and soft key presses.
- Wireless connectivity reduces cable clutter.
- Generally good magnetic attachment.
Cons
- Slight input lag when waking from sleep.
- Build quality is good but not exceptional.
6. Inateck Keyboard for Surface Pro 7 with Precision Touchpad, Bluetooth
As someone who spends a considerable amount of time typing on my Surface Pro, I was eager to test out this Inateck offering. The Bluetooth connection was straightforward to establish, and I appreciated the inclusion of a dedicated Precision Touchpad, which felt responsive for general navigation. The overall build quality felt solid, giving me confidence it could withstand daily use.
However, the key travel is shallower than I prefer, leading to a slightly less tactile typing experience than I’ve grown accustomed to. While the touchpad is good, it occasionally registered unintended swipes when I was simply resting my fingers. This might be a minor annoyance for some, but for extended writing sessions, it became noticeable.
This keyboard is a decent option for users who prioritize a built-in touchpad and don’t mind a shallower key press. It’s a good fit for casual users who frequently switch between typing and navigating their device.
Pros
- Integrated Precision Touchpad
- Solid build quality
- Easy Bluetooth pairing
Cons
- Shallow key travel
- Occasional unintended touchpad input
7. Type Cover for Microsoft Surface Pro 7+ / Pro 7/6
When considering the best Microsoft Surface Pro 4 keyboard, the official Microsoft Type Cover for the Pro 7 (which is backward compatible) is a strong contender. I found the typing experience to be excellent, with satisfying key feedback and a comfortable layout. The magnetic attachment is strong and secure, transforming the tablet into a capable laptop in seconds. The integrated trackpad is also very precise and smooth.
My main critique lies with the fabric material, which, while aesthetically pleasing, tends to attract dust and is a bit of a pain to keep perfectly clean. It also doesn’t offer any significant spill protection, which is a concern for those who often work in environments where accidents can happen. The price point is also on the higher side compared to third-party options.
This is ideal for the Surface Pro user who demands the best in terms of typing feel and trackpad performance and is willing to invest in the official accessory. If pristine cleanliness is a top priority or you’re on a tight budget, you might want to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Excellent typing feel and key feedback
- Secure magnetic attachment
- Precise and smooth trackpad
Cons
- Fabric attracts dust
- Limited spill protection
- Higher price point
8. Moko Type Cover for Microsoft Surface Pro 7/6/ 5/4/ 3
The MoKo Ultra Type Cover aims to offer a budget-friendly alternative, and for the most part, it succeeds. I found the typing experience to be surprisingly decent, with keys that offer a reasonable amount of travel and a satisfying click. The magnetic connection to my Surface Pro felt secure enough for everyday tasks, and the integrated trackpad performed adequately for basic navigation.
However, the plastic construction feels a bit less premium than I’d hoped, and the keys themselves have a slightly hollow sound when typing rapidly. The trackpad, while functional, isn’t as smooth or responsive as those found on higher-end models, sometimes requiring a firmer press. This keyboard is not for power users who demand top-tier performance and a luxurious feel.
This option is best suited for budget-conscious users who need a functional keyboard and trackpad for their Surface Pro and don’t require the absolute best in build quality or performance. If you’re a student or a casual user, this could be a good fit.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Decent key travel
- Secure magnetic connection
Cons
- Less premium plastic feel
- Hollow key sound
- Trackpad could be more responsive
9. Bluetooth 5.3 Wireless Magnetic Keyboard with Touchpad for Microsoft Surface
This wireless magnetic keyboard caught my eye for its promise of a cleaner setup with Bluetooth 5.3. Pairing was quick, and I appreciated the strong magnetic connection that kept it firmly attached to my Surface Pro. The touchpad is a welcome addition, offering a convenient way to navigate without needing to switch to touch input. The keys themselves have a pleasant, relatively quiet feel to them.
My primary gripe is with the battery life, which didn’t quite live up to the advertised figures in my testing. I found myself needing to recharge it more frequently than expected. Additionally, the key layout felt a little cramped, particularly the arrow keys, which are smaller than I’m used to. This might be an issue for those with larger hands or who frequently use those specific keys.
This keyboard is a good choice for those who want a wireless, clutter-free setup and value a built-in touchpad. However, if consistent, long-lasting battery performance is crucial for your workflow, or you’re particular about key spacing, you might want to explore other options.
Pros
- Strong magnetic attachment
- Convenient integrated touchpad
- Quiet key operation
Cons
- Battery life could be better
- Cramped key layout
10. Xiwmix Keyboard for Microsoft Surface Pro 7/ Pro 7 Plus/pro
The XIWMIX keyboard presents itself as a versatile option, and I was keen to see how it performed with my Surface Pro. The Bluetooth connectivity was reliable, and the keyboard felt sturdy when attached magnetically. I found the key presses to be firm and somewhat clicky, which some users might find satisfying for feedback. The inclusion of a touchpad is also a practical benefit for multitasking.
However, I noticed a slight lag occasionally when typing at very high speeds, which could be a deal-breaker for fast typists. The touchpad, while present, felt a bit less refined than on more premium offerings, with a slightly rougher texture. This keyboard isn’t ideal for professional writers who demand absolute precision and zero lag.
This keyboard is a solid choice for users looking for a functional and affordable accessory for their Surface Pro, especially if they appreciate a more tactile typing feel. If you’re a professional who needs flawless, lag-free performance, you might want to consider a more specialized option.
Pros
- Reliable Bluetooth connection
- Sturdy build
- Tactile key feedback
Cons
- Occasional typing lag
- Touchpad feels less refined
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Connectivity | Key Type | Touchpad |
| Microsoft Type Cover for Surface Pro 4/5/6/7 | Proprietary Connector | Scissor-switch | Yes |
| Microsoft Type Cover for Surface Pro | Proprietary Connector | Scissor-switch | Yes |
| Wireless Keyboard Type Cover Trackpad Mouse Replacement for Microsoft Surface | Bluetooth | Chiclet | Yes |
| Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Type Cover | Proprietary Connector | Scissor-switch | Yes |
| Surface Pro Keyboard, Wireless Type Cover for Microsoft Surface Pro | Bluetooth | Chiclet | Yes |
| Inateck Keyboard for Surface Pro 7 with Precision Touchpad, Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Scissor-switch | Yes |
| Type Cover for Microsoft Surface Pro 7+ / Pro 7/6 | Proprietary Connector | Scissor-switch | Yes |
| MoKo Type Cover for Microsoft Surface Pro 7/6/ 5/4/ 3 | Proprietary Connector | Scissor-switch | Yes |
| Bluetooth 5.3 Wireless Magnetic Keyboard with Touchpad for Microsoft Surface | Bluetooth 5.3 | Scissor-switch | Yes |
| XIWMIX Keyboard for Microsoft Surface Pro 7/ Pro 7 Plus/Pro | Bluetooth | Chiclet | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Type Cover for Surface Pro 4?
The best Type Cover for the Surface Pro 4 is the official Microsoft Type Cover. It offers the most seamless integration. It provides the intended typing and trackpad experience.
This official accessory is designed specifically for the Surface Pro 4. It ensures perfect fit and function. Third-party options may exist but often lack the same quality and compatibility.
Are Surface Pro 4 Type Covers Backlit?
Yes, most official Microsoft Type Covers for the Surface Pro 4 are backlit. This feature is very useful. It allows for comfortable typing in dim lighting conditions.
The backlighting can usually be adjusted. You can turn it on or off. You can also often change its brightness level. This is controlled through Surface settings or keyboard shortcuts.
Can I Use a Type Cover From Another Surface Model?
Generally, no. Type Covers are designed for specific Surface models. The connector and dimensions can vary slightly.
A Type Cover for a Surface Pro 3 or Surface Pro 5 might not fit or connect properly. Always verify compatibility before purchasing.
Where Can I Buy a Surface Pro 4 Type Cover?
You can find Surface Pro 4 Type Covers on online marketplaces. Major retailers like Amazon and eBay are good sources. Check Microsoft’s official website as well.
New old stock might be available from some sellers. Refurbished options are also common. Ensure the seller has good reviews. This helps guarantee a working product.
Are There Any Third-Party Alternatives to the Type Cover?
Yes, some third-party keyboard cases exist. They aim to offer similar functionality at a lower price. However, they may not match the official Type Cover’s quality.
These alternatives might have different key travel. Their trackpads could be less precise. Compatibility issues can also arise. The official Type Cover is usually the most reliable choice.
Final Verdict
For the Microsoft Surface Pro 4, the definitive best keyboard is the official Microsoft Type Cover. It offers unparalleled integration, a superior typing experience with tactile keys, and a responsive trackpad. Its magnetic connection is seamless and secure, ensuring it functions as an extension of the device itself.
While third-party options may seem tempting due to price, they rarely match the build quality, key feel, and precise trackpad performance of the official Type Cover. The backlit keys are also a significant advantage for productivity in various lighting conditions. Invest in the official Type Cover for the optimal Surface Pro 4 experience.