There’s a specific, sinking feeling every Microsoft Surface Pro owner knows. It’s the moment your trusty, snap-on Type Cover—the very accessory that transforms your sleek tablet into a productivity powerhouse—starts to fail. Keys stop responding, the trackpad becomes erratic, or the connection flickers in and out. Suddenly, your versatile hybrid device feels hobbled. My own Surface Pro 6 keyboard gave up the ghost after years of faithful service, and a quick search for an official replacement led to a second pang of despair: the price. Spending a significant sum on an accessory for an aging device feels like a bitter pill to swallow. This is the crossroads where so many of us find ourselves: do we pay the premium for an original part, or venture into the world of third-party alternatives, hoping to find a gem among the rubble? It was this exact predicament that led us to the Zoof Wireless Tablet Keyboard for Surface Pro, a device that promises the original’s form and function, but with wireless freedom and a much more palatable price tag.
- Compatibility - Compatible with Microsoft Surface Pro 7+ (2021) / Surface Pro 7 (2019) / Surface Pro 6 (2018) / Surface Pro 5th Gen (2017) / Surface Pro 4 / Surface Pro 3 , 12.3 inch tablet.
- Easy setup - Connect via Bluetooth. Pair the keyboard once, and it will reconnect to the Surface automatically once you open it.
- Magnetically Detachable - Removable attach or detach, easily switch between surface pro tablet and laptop. The slim design of the keyboard makes it easy to carry with you wherever you go.
What to Consider Before Buying a Tablet Keyboard
A tablet keyboard is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for unlocking the full potential of your device. It bridges the gap between content consumption and creation, transforming a tablet from a passive screen into an active workstation for writing emails, drafting documents, and navigating complex spreadsheets. The primary benefit is ergonomic efficiency; typing on a physical keyboard is faster, more accurate, and infinitely more comfortable than tapping on glass for any extended period. It provides tactile feedback and a familiar layout that our muscle memory craves, fundamentally changing how we interact with our tablets on a daily basis.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the exact scenario we described: a student, a mobile professional, or a casual user whose original Surface Pro Type Cover has malfunctioned or who finds the OEM replacement cost prohibitive. It’s also perfect for those who desire more flexibility, as a Bluetooth keyboard can be used while detached from the screen. However, it might not be suitable for those who demand absolute seamlessness and are willing to pay for it. The official Type Cover draws power directly from the Surface, requiring no separate charging and connecting instantly via its physical pins. If you cannot tolerate the idea of charging another device or the split-second delay of a Bluetooth handshake upon waking, you might be better served by sticking with the original manufacturer’s product.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Connectivity & Power: This is the biggest differentiator. OEM keyboards often use proprietary physical connectors (like the Surface Pro’s pogo pins) for instant connection and power. Third-party options like the Zoof keyboard primarily use Bluetooth, which offers the flexibility of detached use but requires a separate battery and charging, as well as an initial pairing process. Consider which trade-off better suits your workflow.
- Typing Experience: Not all keys are created equal. Look for details on the switch type (scissor-switches, like those in the Zoof, are common in slim keyboards and offer a good balance of travel and stability), key travel distance, and layout. Some third-party keyboards may alter the function row or key placement, which can require a brief adjustment period. Backlighting is another key feature for working in low-light conditions.
- Trackpad Performance: A good trackpad is non-negotiable for a true laptop-like experience. Assess its size, material (glass or plastic), and its support for multi-touch gestures like pinching to zoom and two-finger scrolling. A responsive, accurate trackpad can make or break the usability of a keyboard cover.
- Build Quality & Portability: The keyboard also serves as a screen cover, so its durability matters. Consider the materials used for the enclosure and the feel of the fabric or plastic. Pay attention to weight and thickness, as these factors directly impact the overall portability of your tablet-and-keyboard combination. While a few millimeters may not sound like much, it can be noticeable in a slim tech bag. You can see the Zoof’s slim profile and build for yourself.
Making an informed decision on these points will ensure you get a keyboard that not only replaces a broken original but potentially enhances your entire Surface Pro experience.
While the Zoof Wireless Tablet Keyboard for Surface Pro is an excellent choice for Microsoft’s ecosystem, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition in the broader tablet world. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Excellent Compatibility: The Bluetooth keyboard compatible with iOS, Android and iPad OS system. It is perfect for Apple iPhone, iPad, iPad Mini, iPad Pro, iPad Air, Android Samsung LG tablet...
- IMPORTANT NOTE: This keyboard is compatible with 3 systems, please press FN+A/S/D to switch the required system before use (“FN+A” is for iOs , “FN+S” is for Windows, “FN+D” is for Android...
- 【Compatibility】For iPad (A16) 11th generation 11-inch 2025 (Model: A3354/A3355/A3356), For iPad 10th generation 10.9-inch 2022 (Model: A2696/A2757/A2777). Not for any other models. Please check...
First Impressions: Familiar Form, Surprising Freedom
Unboxing the Zoof Wireless Tablet Keyboard for Surface Pro felt immediately familiar. It arrives with a USB-C charging cable and a small user manual. The keyboard itself has the classic black, soft-touch finish that closely mimics the Alcantara feel of the official Type Cover, though it’s a slightly different plastic material. The magnetic attachment is impressively strong; it snapped onto the bottom edge of our Surface Pro 7 with a satisfying and secure *thunk*, aligning perfectly. As some users have noted, it is a couple of millimeters larger than the original, but this is barely perceptible unless you’re looking for it and doesn’t affect portability or function.
The most significant departure from the original is, of course, the lack of electrical contact pins. This is purely a Bluetooth device. Powering it on and initiating pairing was our first test. The manual points to a function key combination, and after a moment of searching, we found it, just as other users discovered: the Bluetooth symbol is subtly printed on the ‘Z’ key. Pressing Fn + Z put the keyboard into pairing mode, and it appeared in our Surface’s Bluetooth devices list instantly. From unboxing to typing our first sentence took less than two minutes. The initial feel is one of surprising quality for its price point, offering a compelling alternative right out of the box. For those looking for a quick and effective upgrade, you can check the latest price and availability here.
What We Like
- Excellent value compared to OEM replacement keyboards
- Wireless Bluetooth connectivity allows for detached, flexible use
- Impressive battery life that lasts for weeks of regular use
- Familiar scissor-switch keys and multi-touch trackpad provide a great typing experience
- Strong magnetic attachment for a secure fit
- Single-color backlighting is a welcome feature for night use
Drawbacks
- Requires separate charging via USB-C; does not draw power from the Surface Pro
- Bluetooth pairing key (on the ‘Z’ key) can be difficult to find initially
- Slightly thicker and has a marginally different key layout than the original
Performance Deep Dive: Living with the Zoof Keyboard
A keyboard cover’s true worth is only revealed after days and weeks of use. It’s in the rhythm of typing long documents, the quick navigation gestures on the trackpad, and the reliability of its connection. We put the Zoof Wireless Tablet Keyboard for Surface Pro through its paces as a daily driver, integrating it into our workflow of writing, emailing, and browsing to see if its performance could truly match, or even exceed, its promise.
The Typing and Trackpad Experience: Comfortably Familiar
The heart of any keyboard is the typing feel, and this is an area where the Zoof keyboard genuinely excels. It utilizes scissor-switch keys, the same mechanism found in most modern laptops and the original Type Cover, ensuring a stable and responsive keystroke. We immediately noticed what other users have pointed out: the key travel feels slightly deeper than on the Microsoft version. This is purely a matter of preference, but we found it to be a positive change. The added travel provided a more substantial, tactile feedback that felt more akin to a traditional laptop keyboard, which we found led to fewer typos and a more satisfying typing rhythm over long sessions. The keys are well-spaced and have a soft, quiet actuation that’s pleasant in any environment.
The layout does have minor differences. Some function keys are rearranged to accommodate media controls and the Bluetooth pairing function. It took us about an hour to fully adjust, but it quickly became second nature. The single-color backlighting is another standout feature at this price point. It’s bright, even, and makes working in dimly lit rooms a breeze—a feature often reserved for more premium models. This excellent backlighting is a feature that really sets it apart from other budget options.
The multi-touch trackpad was another pleasant surprise. It’s a generous size and, while plastic, has a smooth surface that tracked our fingers accurately. All the standard Windows gestures—two-finger scrolling, pinch-to-zoom, and three-finger swipes for multitasking—worked flawlessly. We experienced no lag or jitteriness, providing a navigation experience that felt nearly identical to the original. For transforming a Surface Pro into a functional laptop, the combination of this keyboard and trackpad is remarkably effective.
Untethered Productivity: The Freedom of Bluetooth
The single most defining feature of the Zoof Wireless Tablet Keyboard for Surface Pro is its Bluetooth connectivity. This isn’t just a technical detail; it fundamentally changes how you can use your Surface. While the magnetic dock holds it perfectly for traditional laptop use, you can also detach the screen and place it on a stand, keeping the keyboard on your lap or in a more ergonomic position on your desk. We found this incredibly useful when giving presentations, allowing us to control the display from a distance, or when working in cramped spaces like an airplane seat, where placing the screen further back is more comfortable.
The pairing process, once we located the elusive Fn + Z combination, was a one-time affair. After that initial setup, the keyboard automatically reconnected to our Surface Pro within two seconds of being turned on or waking from sleep. While not as instantaneous as the pogo-pin connection of the OEM cover, the delay is negligible and never felt like an impediment. The connection remained stable and rock-solid throughout our testing, with no dropped signals or input lag, even when used several feet away from the tablet. This wireless capability is the keyboard’s superpower, offering a level of versatility that the original, tethered Type Cover simply cannot match. For anyone who values a flexible setup, this wireless freedom is the key selling point.
Powering Through: Battery Life and Charging Realities
Switching to a wireless keyboard introduces a new concern: battery life. The official Type Cover never needs charging, so the Zoof keyboard had a high bar to clear. The manufacturer claims over three months of standby time, but we were more interested in real-world usage. We’re happy to report that the battery performance is nothing short of stellar. After an initial full charge using the included USB-C cable, we used the keyboard heavily for three full weeks—averaging several hours of typing per day, often with the backlighting on—and the battery indicator was still showing a healthy charge. This aligns perfectly with user reports of not needing to charge it for very long periods.
For the average user, you can realistically expect to charge this keyboard once every month or two, which is an incredibly low-maintenance commitment. The move to a standard USB-C port for charging is also a smart choice, meaning you can top it up with the same cable you likely use for your phone or other modern devices, reducing cable clutter. The only downside is that you do have to remember to charge it eventually. It’s a small trade-off for the benefits of Bluetooth, but one that busy professionals and students should be aware of. The keyboard does not charge via the magnetic attachment, a clear distinction from the OEM model.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, user feedback confirms our own positive experience, particularly regarding the value and feel of the keyboard. Many, like us, came to the Zoof after their original Surface keyboard failed and were pleasantly surprised by the quality. One user noted it has a “very nice feel to it and is very close to the OEM type cover,” a sentiment we wholeheartedly agree with. The slightly longer key travel was also mentioned as a neutral-to-positive difference that just “feels a bit different.”
The most common point of confusion, which we also experienced, is the initial Bluetooth pairing. Several users mentioned it took a moment to find the “chainlink button” on the ‘Z’ key, suggesting the manual could be clearer. However, once paired, the connection is lauded as being “beautifully” stable. The exceptional battery life is another recurring theme, with one happy customer stating, “I havent charged the keyboard since the firdt time I pulled it out the box.” For those considering this keyboard, it’s reassuring to see such consistent praise for its core functions. You can read more user experiences and see its full feature set here.
How Does the Zoof Keyboard Compare to the Alternatives?
While the Zoof keyboard is a direct competitor to Microsoft’s own Type Cover, it’s helpful to see how it fits into the broader tablet keyboard market. The provided alternatives are for Apple’s iPad ecosystem, which highlights different design philosophies and price points, offering a valuable perspective.
1. Apple Magic Keyboard Folio for iPad (10th Gen) with Trackpad
- WHY MAGIC KEYBOARD FOLIO — The perfect iPad (A16) companion. It features a great typing experience, a built-in trackpad to handle tasks with precision, a 14-key function row. The versatile two-piece...
- COMPATIBILITY — Magic Keyboard Folio works with iPad (A16 and 10th generation).
- DESIGNED FOR COMFORT — Magic Keyboard Folio features a versatile two-piece design that includes a detachable keyboard and a protective back panel that attach magnetically. The large click-anywhere...
The Apple Magic Keyboard Folio represents the premium, first-party option, much like the official Surface Type Cover. It boasts a flawless integration with the iPad, a high-quality build, and an excellent trackpad. However, its price is significantly higher than the Zoof’s. A user might prefer the Apple Folio if they are deep within the Apple ecosystem and prioritize perfect software/hardware integration and are willing to pay the steep premium for it. The Zoof, by contrast, is built for the user who prioritizes value, repairability, and the open flexibility of Bluetooth for their Surface Pro.
2. aMZCaSE Keyboard Case for iPad 9th Gen
- 10.2 inch for iPad keyboard case: Amzcase for iPad 9th/8th/7th generation case with keyboard compatible with 2021 New iPad 9th Gen (2603/2604/2605),for 2020 iPad 8th Gen (A2270/A2430/A2428/A2429),for...
- Trackpad Keyboard: For iPad 9th/8th/7th generation keyboard case with touch features laptop-like isometric keys,shortcut keys and built-in touchpad.When you have our keyboard for iPad 9th...
- 7 color Backlit&Bluetooth Keyboard: Our 10.2 inch of iPad keyboard case with rechargeable backlit keyboard,7-color backlight with 3 adjustable modes to bring you different visual enjoyment and...
This aMZCaSE keyboard is more analogous to the Zoof in the iPad world. It’s a budget-friendly, third-party option that adds a ton of functionality—like 360-degree rotation and colorful backlighting—for a fraction of the first-party price. Someone might choose this over the Zoof if they own an older iPad and want a protective case with an integrated keyboard that offers flashy features like RGB lighting. The Zoof Wireless Tablet Keyboard for Surface Pro, however, maintains a more professional, understated design that closely mimics the original, focusing on core typing experience and portability rather than extra features like 360-degree hinges.
3. Amazon Renewed Apple Smart Keyboard for iPad Pro 12.9in
- Renewed products look and work like new. These pre-owned products have been inspected and tested by Amazon-qualified suppliers, which typically perform a full diagnostic test, replacement of any...
- It's a full-size keyboard that's fully portable, and connects to iPad Pro with the Smart Connector, an innovative new interface that allows for a two-way exchange of power and data. Just attach the...
- When you're done it folds together to create a slim, lightweight cover.
This renewed Apple keyboard offers a middle ground. It provides access to a first-party accessory at a reduced price, but with the potential risks associated with a refurbished product. A buyer might opt for this if they are set on an official Apple product but have a tighter budget. This highlights the primary appeal of the Zoof: it delivers a brand-new product with a full 12-month warranty for a similar, or often lower, price than a renewed OEM accessory. It offers the peace of mind of a new purchase without the premium price tag.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Zoof Wireless Tablet Keyboard for Surface Pro?
After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the Zoof Wireless Tablet Keyboard for Surface Pro is an outstanding replacement for the official Microsoft Type Cover. It successfully replicates the core experience—a comfortable typing feel, a responsive trackpad, and a secure magnetic fit—while adding the significant advantage of untethered Bluetooth flexibility. The incredible battery life and modern USB-C charging make the transition from a physically connected keyboard virtually seamless. While the initial pairing can be a minor hiccup and it does require separate charging, these are minuscule trade-offs for the immense value it provides.
We wholeheartedly recommend this keyboard to any Surface Pro user whose original Type Cover has failed, or to anyone who wants to add a high-quality keyboard to their tablet without breaking the bank. It offers 95% of the original’s functionality with added versatility at a fraction of the cost. It’s a smart, practical, and budget-friendly solution that breathes new life into one of the best 2-in-1 devices on the market. If you’re ready to transform your Surface Pro experience, you can find the best price and order your Zoof Wireless Tablet Keyboard here.
Last update on 2025-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API