After many years and tens of thousands of words typed, my favorite Microsoft keyboard is now on its last leg. Unfortunately, when I recently went out to purchase a replacement, I was stunned to learn Microsoft discontinued its line of keyboards and accessories. While there are plenty of alternatives, I’ve found that Microsoft had some of the best options at a great price.
Why Are Microsoft Keyboards Out of Stock?
Microsoft’s keyboards are out of stock at retailers because Microsoft is no longer selling its own branded computer accessories.
When I first saw that Microsoft keyboards were out of stock, I assumed it was due to holiday demand. I checked my local Best Buy in late November, and many of their keyboards were out of stock.
After coming out of Best Buy empty-handed, I did a quick Amazon search and found a few available for insane prices. These were all from third parties, so I again assumed that Amazon was simply out of stock. Unfortunately, after returning home and doing a quick Google search, I learned their true fate.
Is Microsoft Discontinuing Keyboards?
Microsoft already discontinued its keyboard lineup. This means you won’t find the popular ergonomic keyboards and mice at local retailers or online. While there are some keyboards still floating around on sites like Amazon, they are grossly overpriced.
The truth is that keyboards and accessories never made up a significant share of Microsoft’s sales, so the company made the tough decision to shift the attention of the accessories division toward Surface accessories.
Is Microsoft no Longer Selling Accessories and Peripherals?
Microsoft no longer makes accessories such as keyboards, mice, and webcams. However, they are continuing to sell accessories for the Surface lineup. This includes mice and keyboards designed specifically for the Surface tablets.
Not only is this upsetting to many Microsoft keyboard fans, but it is also the end of an era. Microsoft notably made a wide range of PC accessories throughout the 1990s and early 2000s before eventually narrowing down its lineup to focus on mice and keyboards.
When Did Microsoft Discontinue its Keyboards and Accessories?
Microsoft announced its plans to discontinue keyboards and other peripherals back in April 2023. The keyboards and accessories slowly sold out at retailers, with some locations still carrying the products into the latter part of the year.
Once the news broke, many fans of the popular keyboards quickly ran out to buy as many as they could get their hands on. Writers, in particular, bought extra keyboards, fearing they could never find a suitable replacement.
What Is the Best Alternative to Microsoft’s Ergonomic Keyboard?
Your best option today is to visit a local store with keyboards on display. The most common alternative for Microsoft’s ergonomic keyboards is a Logitech. However, I’ve always found Logitech’s ergonomic offerings to be very bulky. Nonetheless, they are one of the few companies selling keyboards that are of decent quality.
Good News on the Horizon
Alas, there is some good news because Incase recently announced their plans to relaunch the Microsoft keyboard lineup. These devices will use the original designs and be branded as Incase Designed by Microsoft. The new line is supposed to launch in 2024, so all we can do in the meantime is hope that the quality and function remain the same.
