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Microsoft MS8XA00001 Surface Pro Signature Keyboard - Black — main product image
Microsoft

Microsoft MS8XA00001 Surface Pro Signature Keyboard - Black

★★★★★4.5 (1079 reviews)

A full mechanical keyboard and Alcantara-covered trackpad that transforms your Surface Pro 8 or Pro X into a proper laptop without adding bulk.

$144.99*$179.99Save 19%
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Microsoft Surface Pro Signature Keyboard (MS8XA00001) is a Type Cover replacement engineered specifically for the Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro X, featuring a full 78-key mechanical keyset, single-color backlighting, and a large glass trackpad — all within a 0.7-inch profile. The mechanical keyset is the defining differentiator here: key travel and tactile response are meaningfully deeper than competing membrane-based covers, making sustained typing sessions feel less like a compromise and more like a legitimate desktop substitute. Connectivity is handled via Microsoft's proprietary magnetic Surface connector, eliminating Bluetooth pairing entirely and delivering immediate, zero-configuration input.

The keyboard is wrapped in Alcantara, a suede-like synthetic fabric that adds grip and warmth but requires more maintenance discipline than standard plastic or fabric covers. A built-in pen garage along the top edge wirelessly charges the Surface Slim Pen 2 (sold separately) whenever it's holstered — a passive convenience that frequent pen users will rely on daily. The cover folds 360° behind the tablet, and the magnetic hinge holds securely enough for lap use without constant readjustment. This is the right choice for Surface Pro 8 and Pro X users who type for long stretches and want the closest experience to a conventional laptop keyboard without carrying a separate peripheral.

Key Features

Choose your keyboard color: Poppy Red, Ice Blue, Platinum, and Black. (1)

Features a full mechanical keyset, backlit keys, and large trackpad for precise navigation and control.

Typing and writing in one without the bulk, Surface Pro Signature Keyboard delivers fast and accurate typing like a traditional, full-size keyboard, plus natural on-screen writing with Surface Slim Pen 2 (sold separately).

Work your way anywhere. Surface Pro Signature Keyboard clicks into place instantly and stays securely attached so you always have your pen and keyboard with you. Use with Surface Pro 8 or Pro X Kickstand for a full laptop experience.

Close to protect screen and conserve battery, or fold back completely for a tablet.

Specifications

Color Options
Black, Poppy Red, Ice Blue, Platinum
Keyboard Type
Full mechanical keyset
Backlight
Yes
Trackpad
Large
Compatibility
Surface Pro 8, Surface Pro X
Pen Compatibility
Surface Slim Pen 2 (sold separately)

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Instant magnetic attachment with zero latency — no pairing, no delays, just click and type.
  • Full 78-key mechanical keyset delivers tactile feedback and travel depth that flat membrane keyboards cannot match at this form factor.
  • Integrated wireless Slim Pen 2 charging slot keeps your pen topped up passively — no separate charging cable needed.
  • Large glass trackpad provides precise cursor control comparable to a standalone peripheral.
  • Folds completely flat behind the tablet for unobstructed pen/touch use without removing the keyboard.

👎 Cons

  • Alcantara surface is premium in feel but demands careful maintenance — oils, ink, and liquids leave visible marks that are difficult to fully remove.
  • Single-color backlighting with no per-zone customization limits low-light workflow flexibility.
  • At 9.6 ounces, the keyboard adds meaningful weight to a device marketed for portability.
  • 78-key layout omits a dedicated number pad — a real constraint for spreadsheet-heavy workflows.

Frequently Asked Questions

This keyboard is designed specifically for Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro X. It uses the Surface Connect magnetic attachment system and is not compatible with older Surface Pro generations (7 and below) or the Surface Pro 9 and later.
It connects via the Surface Pro's proprietary magnetic keyboard connector — no Bluetooth pairing or separate wireless setup required. The connection is instantaneous when you click it into place.
The keyboard features single-color backlighting (not RGB). You can adjust brightness levels through Windows keyboard shortcuts, but there is no per-key or multi-zone color customization.
No. The Surface Slim Pen 2 is sold separately. The keyboard does include a charging slot that wirelessly charges the Slim Pen 2 when it is stored in the pen garage along the top edge.
Alcantara holds up reasonably well under daily use but is susceptible to staining and can show wear in high-contact areas over 12–18 months of heavy use. Microsoft recommends using a damp cloth for cleaning — avoid solvents.

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