Notebooks with backlit keyboard review 2023

Notebooks with backlit keyboards are becoming increasingly popular with many consumers. In the meantime, the manufacturers have also responded to this demand and so you can now find several models from different suppliers for around 1000 euros.

A few years ago, this feature was still reserved for external keyboards or only for the top models of the notebook series in the high price ranges. But the demand is known to determine the market and so you are now spoiled for choice.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a notebook with a backlit keyboard?

Benefits

If you are looking for a new laptop, you have a lot to choose from. One backlit keyboard is still not a standard feature, but is now easy to find. So what's the point of having a backlit keyboard like this?

It all depends on what you want to do with your notebook. Are you a student and do you work a lot in the dark? Anyone who has ever written a long term paper in the light of a desk lamp knows how hard it is on the eyes. A backlit keyboard could be useful here. Not that one now without Lighting would work on the notebook, but when the icons are backlit, it's easier to find them quickly while skimming over your typed text on the screen.

Many consumers also use their notebook to watch movies. Of course, the atmosphere is better when it's dark. But what if you want to stop the film for a moment and then accidentally press stop because it was just too dark and you couldn't see the buttons? It's frustrating! So such a backlit keyboard can be an advantage, especially if you can operate the backlight manually.

Models in which only the keys themselves are illuminated from behind are practical. It's not too garish and easy on the eyes. A few examples here are the Sony VAIO E1511X1E as well as models from Dell (Latitude E6420) and Asus (Zenbook). Another advantage is that on some models you can even adjust the brightness of the lighting manually. So you can make it lighter or darker, depending on your mood and need.

Disadvantages

As you can see, a notebook with an illuminated keyboard can definitely be of use. Of course, there are also disadvantages that you should be aware of. Energy use here would be an example especially for consumers who may travel a lot and want to use their laptop on the go where there aren't many charging options.

In this case you should make sure that the lighting can be switched off manually in order to save energy. Another disadvantage is possible problems with the lighting. If a repair is necessary, it can be expensive.

Many consumers also complain, for example, about the built-in light sensor in the MacBook Pro or Samsung Series 7 Chronos. This light sensor should detect when it is dark and then automatically adjust the lighting. This sounds good in theory, but it also seems to cause problems.

Often the lighting stays off, even though it's dark or vice versa. Computer savvy people can download free software and control the lights manually, but some of us might struggle with that.

Retrofit backlit keyboard

Are you planning to make small improvements to your notebook and would you like to retrofit an illuminated keyboard? Then there are a few points that you should consider in your project. In the "gaming" scene, backlit keyboards have long been a staple of PC gear, but other consumers can also benefit from such an accessory. Working in the evening in poorly lit rooms, for example, becomes much more comfortable with the extra lighting of the individual keys. However, you often don't want to buy a whole new notebook just to let the keys from A to Z shine in a bright light. Especially not when the notebook is otherwise working properly. The good news is that the backlit keyboard can be retrofitted, but there are some challenges.

Retrofitting an illuminated keyboard: general information

• Of course, the manufacturer's guarantee for your notebook expires if you remove the keyboard yourself and replace it with an illuminated version.
• There is also a risk that the notebook itself will suffer damage and even become completely unusable due to an error when replacing it. A little tip: Be careful not to use magnetic tools, as they can easily damage the notebook's hardware.
• It can be very difficult to find the right keyboard for your laptop to upgrade. The best way to find out whether there is a backlit keyboard for your notebook model is to contact the manufacturer directly or do intensive Google research.

Depending on the model of your laptop, the keyboard must also be removed differently. There are notebooks where you can unhook the keyboard using a notch at the top edge, others have to be unscrewed or levered out. If you don't feel particularly comfortable with it yourself, there is bound to be a technically and manually talented acquaintance in your circle of friends who can give you a hand. In theory, the upgrade should only take a few minutes. After the old keyboard has been removed and the connection cable disconnected, all that remains is to install the illuminated keyboard in the same way as the old one was removed.

As mentioned, the manufacturer's guarantee expires if you decide to retrofit it. But if this has already expired anyway, then nothing stands in the way of the small crafting undertaking. Retrofitting the illuminated keyboard instead of buying a new notebook right away can be an inexpensive way to still enjoy the amenities of this illuminated accessory.