Expert Rating

67

The Matias FK418BTLB Backlit Wireless Aluminum Keyboard Space Gray fits itself with a recognizable design, straight from Apple’s handbook. Fitted with Bluetooth connectivity and a rechargeable battery, the Matias FK418BTLB could be the best backlit keyboard for users comfortable with Apple products, and who need a single keyboard for multiple devices. There is a reason why this is considered the best keyboard for Apple users.

Why We Like It – Matias FK418BTLB Review

Fitted with a rechargeable battery and a familiar and appealing design, this keyboard has the uncanny ability to connect to multiple devices, quickly switching from one to another with the press of a button.

Pros
  • Aluminum casing
  • Pairs to 4 different devices
  • Long battery life
Cons
  • Poor quality; cheap in every way

Performance

The Matias FK418BTLB might look like an Apple Magic Keyboard but, unfortunately, it does not perform like one. But let’s start with the positive: battery life. Matias did the right thing by giving it a battery life that lasts up to a year. And it’s rechargeable! Furthermore, backlighting gets its own dedicated backlight battery so it doesn’t drain the main battery (lasts two weeks).

Other than that, the Matias FK418BTLB didn’t feel good to use. The keys felt weak, and flimsy, and a few broke off from regular use. This is unlike other keyboards such as Logitech k760 solar keyboard, RII I4 mini, and Microsoft sculpt mobile keyboard, all of which hold up well with regular use.

If you were hoping to game on this, you’re better off picking up a Redragon S101 Keyboard. If you prefer a mechanical keyboard for your work or gaming needs, you should consider reading our MaxKeyboard Nighthawk X9 mechanical keyboard review.

Design

Moving onto the design, the Matias Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard does have a few smart design choices. In the top-right corner are four unique keys, each stamped with a Wi-Fi symbol and numbered 1 to 4. Each of the four keys can save Bluetooth devices you’ve connected to. Should you want to switch over from one computer to another, you can pick a different profile and it will connect automatically. This is a full-size keyboard, complete with function keys, a backlight key, and a numeric keypad, just like the KLIM Chroma Wireless Keyboard. It has a port for plugging in a MicroUSB charging cable. If you want to have a keyboard that can be hand-washed or submerged, read our Logitech washable keyboard K310 review.

Value

The Matias Backlit Wireless Aluminum Keyboard Space Gray, to be frank, is cheap in every way. It simply isn’t worth the $139 price tag. It tries so hard to be an Apple Magic Keyboard that it forgets the Apple Magic Keyboard actually performs well. If you want an Apple Magic Keyboard—get one. It’s cheaper, has a far better build quality, and works as intended. It might not have the ability to save Bluetooth connections to four different devices, but that’s a non-issue. The Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard is a good alternative for the same overall design.

Matias FK418BTLB Review Wrap Up

The Matias FK418BTLB, with its near-identical design to the Apple Magic Keyboard, doesn’t live up to its inspiration. Keys are flimsy and easily pop off; its one-year dedicated battery is solid but Bluetooth is average at best. Switching between saved devices is neat and the aluminum casing is tough—but that’s all it has going for it.

Brady Meyers Avatar