Brydge 3rd party hard keyboard for the Surface Pro finally makes it lapable

Reading time icon 2 min. read


Readers help support MSpoweruser. We may get a commission if you buy through our links. Tooltip Icon

Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help MSPoweruser sustain the editorial team Read more

Brydge, who makes hard keyboards for the iPad, has unveiled its first keyboard for the Microsoft Surface at CES—the Brydge 12.3.

Unlike any other keyboard on the market, the Brydge 12.3 transforms the Surface into the ultimate laptop by removing the dependency on a kickstand, allowing the user to have a full laptop-like experience. The Brydge 12.3 delivers a 100 percent aluminum body with a full backlit keyboard, 180-degree screen rotation and an adaptive trackpad to the Microsoft Surface and offers a compelling alternative to the Surface Book. The Surface customer now has a option with more functionality than the entry-level model at a better price than the Surface Book.

Brydge also plans to release a model with integrated storage.

“Surface users have been waiting for a powerful keyboard like the Brydge 12.3. Since its release in 2012, the Surface has been the fastest-growing tablet—and this growth is only accelerating. It is a powerful and versatile device that deserves a keyboard that unlocks its true potential,” said Nicholas Smith, CEO of Brydge. “With the addition of the Brydge 12.3, we feel the Surface customer has greater options between the entry level Type 4 keyboard right up to the full laptop hybrid—the Surface Book. The combination of the Brydge 12.3 and Surface creates a game-changing package that transforms the Surface into a true laptop replacement and the ultimate in mobile computing for Windows users.”

Technical Specifications:

  • Thickness: .3 in
  • Weight: 1.3 lbs
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth 3.0
  • Color: Silver
  • 180-degree viewing angles
  • Backlit, tactile keys with varying brightness levels
  • Rechargeable three-month battery
  • Optional expandable 128gb SSD storage

The Brydge 12.3 has already been named a CES 2017 Innovation Awards Honoree. It will be on display at CES 2017 at booth #7933 in the North Hall of the LVCC as well as at CES Unveiled on Jan. 3 at table 113.

Starting at $149.99 MSRP,  and available at www.brydgekeyboards.com, the Brydge 12.3 launches for preorder on January 5 at a special price of $129.99 with a spring 2017 delivery targeted. Brydge will release details of its retail partners who will stock the Brydge 12.3 in the coming months.

More about the topics: accessory, keyboard, surface pro