Apple’s Beloved Extended Keyboard II Returns

Apple’s Extended Keyboard II Claims Top Spot

In a surprising turn of events for Apple product enthusiasts, the Extended Keyboard II has made a triumphant return to the rankings, landing at a respectable number 41. This beloved peripheral, known for its exceptional typing experience, has sparked passionate debate among Apple fans and critics alike. Its resurgence is largely thanks to dedicated advocates who believe it stands as the greatest keyboard ever created, not just by Apple but in all of technology.

A Keyboard Worth Fighting For

The Extended Keyboard II, first released in 1987, is revered for its solid build quality and satisfying tactile feedback. Unlike many modern keyboards that feel flimsy or mushy, this classic offered a distinct, clicky typing sensation that many users still crave. Its mechanical switches provided a level of responsiveness and durability that set it apart from its contemporaries and continues to be a benchmark for keyboard quality.

Initially, the Extended Keyboard II faced harsh judgment in a recent poll of the top 50 Apple products. Some rankings placed it near the bottom, much to the dismay of its vocal supporters. However, a powerful defense mounted by influential tech commentator John Gruber on his blog, Daring Fireball, rallied the troops. Gruber’s passionate argument, calling the low ranking a “travesty,” clearly resonated, pushing the keyboard up to its current position.

Why the Fuss Over an Old Keyboard?

For those who never experienced the Extended Keyboard II firsthand, it might be hard to understand the intense loyalty it commands. In an era of sleek, low-profile designs, the Extended Keyboard II was a substantial piece of hardware. It featured a full-size layout with a comfortable key travel distance and a satisfying resistance when pressed. This design promoted accurate typing and reduced fatigue during long typing sessions, a quality often overlooked in today’s quest for minimalist aesthetics.

Think of it like comparing a vintage record player to a modern digital music streamer. While the streamer offers convenience and a vast library, the record player provides a tangible, warm, and often richer listening experience. Similarly, the Extended Keyboard II offers a tactile and auditory feedback that many find superior for the simple act of typing, transforming a mundane task into a more enjoyable interaction.

Key Features and Design Philosophy

The Extended Keyboard II was part of Apple’s effort to provide a premium input device that matched the quality of its Macintosh computers. It featured:

• Durable mechanical key switches that provided a distinct tactile and audible click.
• A full-sized layout with a dedicated numeric keypad and function keys.
• A sturdy, weighted design that prevented the keyboard from sliding during use.
• A built-in wrist rest area, contributing to ergonomic comfort.

A Contender for Best of All Time?

The claim that the Extended Keyboard II is the “best keyboard of all time” is a bold one, but it’s one that many experienced typists and Apple aficionados genuinely believe. In a world saturated with countless keyboard options, from ergonomic split designs to compact mechanical marvels, the Extended Keyboard II’s enduring appeal lies in its uncompromising approach to a fundamental user interaction. It prioritized the feel and function of typing above all else, a philosophy that continues to win over new generations of users who seek out this classic piece of Apple history.

Who Should Care?

This story is for anyone who appreciates well-crafted technology and the enduring legacy of classic Apple products. It’s for the typists who find joy in the physical act of writing, the collectors who seek out iconic pieces of computing history, and the fans who believe that some designs are simply timeless. While the Extended Keyboard II is no longer in production, its influence can still be felt in the high-end mechanical keyboard market today, proving that good design never truly goes out of style.

Availability and Pricing

The Apple Extended Keyboard II is a vintage product and is not available through standard retail channels. Interested buyers can typically find them on online auction sites and vintage electronics marketplaces. Prices can vary significantly depending on condition and rarity, often ranging from $50 to $200 or more.

Source: Ranking Apple's Extended Keyboard II #Vergecast (YouTube)