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Apple Apple Wireless Keyboard (2003) vs Apple Apple Wireless Keyboard (2007)

Every spec side by side, from each maker's published figures.

Better figure, where one is clearly better

AppleApple Wireless Keyboard (2003)AppleApple Wireless Keyboard (2007)
Overview
ReleasedSeptember 2003September 2007
Typing
LayoutFull sizeCompact
SwitchesMembraneScissor
BacklightNoneNone
Keys labelled forMacMac
Touch IDNoNo
SwitchesIndividual rubber domes over a membrane matrix, identified in an A1016 teardown.Low-profile scissor mountings, identified in an iFixit teardown of the A1255.
Special keysSixteen function keys, numeric keypad, inverted-T arrows, audio controls and optical-disc eject, according to Apple.F1–F12 with Mac brightness, Exposé, Dashboard, playback, volume and optical-disc eject functions; half-height inverted-T arrow cluster.
Connections and battery
Connects byBluetoothBluetooth
PowerAA batteryAA battery
Battery life (maker's claim)Up to 9 months–
ReceiverBluetooth connection with adaptive frequency hopping and 128-bit over-the-air encryption; Apple quoted a range of up to 30 feet.Bluetooth connection with no separate USB receiver; the keyboard's cylindrical rear compartment houses three AA batteries, according to Macworld.
Works withMac OS X 10.2.6 or later and a built-in or external Bluetooth adaptor, according to Apple.Macworld reported that Mac OS X 10.4.10 or later and Apple's Keyboard Software Update were needed for all special functions.
Design
MaterialsWhite keys in a clear plastic enclosure on the original A1016 model.Anodised aluminium upper body, white plastic keys and underside.
Colours–Silver aluminium and white keys.
In the boxApple specified four included Energizer e2 AA batteries.Apple announced the compact wireless keyboard for sale separately or as an iMac build-to-order option by the end of August 2007; Engadget reported a customer delivery on 13 September.

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