Satechi: Premium minimalism you can fix yourself (and actually afford)

If we are in the last decade What we've gotten used to is the fact that "nice and thin" usually means "glued and sealed." When the battery dies, the device goes in the trash. This year, Satechi decided to break that unwritten rule. Their new line of peripherals - keyboards EX1 and EX3 and mouse EX Wireless – delivers the looks you'd expect from its much more expensive Apple neighbors, with functionality that respects your wallet and the environment.

EX Wireless Mouse: Aluminum for the price of a snack

Let's start with the most surprising part of the offer. Satechi EX Wireless Mouse It costs a mere $29.99. For that price, you'd usually get a plastic "rattle," but Satechi offers a case with an aluminum top. The mouse is low-profile, sleek, and, most importantly, designed for the modern nomad.

It allows you to connect up to three devices at once (two via Bluetooth, one via USB-C dongle), switching between them with a simple button on the bottom. The switches are quiet - ideal for open-plan offices or working in a café where you don't want to be "that guy who clicks too loudly".

But the real star is the underside. When the integrated battery inevitably dies after years of use, you don't have to buy a new mouse. You open the lid without tools, replace the battery and keep working. Simple, logical and unfortunately all too rare.

EX1 and EX3 Keyboards: Back to the Roots (and Screws)

A similar “do-it-yourself” philosophy has been adopted for the new keyboards. Two versions are available: compact EX1 for minimalists and EX3 with a full-size dial and hands for those who live in Excel spreadsheets.

Both keyboards are aimed at users who swear by the feel of typing on a laptop. They feature ultra-thin membrane switches that don't tire your fingers. The battery is hidden under a cover secured with a single screw. Replacing it will take less time than it takes to find the right emoji.

Satechi promises “weeks” of battery life. There’s a small trade-off here: the keyboards don’t have backlighting. Is that a drawback? Maybe. Or is it a genius move that extends battery life and keeps your desk from lighting up like a Christmas tree at night? Connectivity is top-notch—up to four devices at once, with a handy slider to switch between Windows and macOS layouts.

When, where and for how many "greenbacks" or euros?

Satechi is proving with this series that durability and repairability don't have to be ugly or expensive. The products will first be available in the US market, with Europe to follow shortly thereafter.

The prices are almost suspiciously affordable, considering the materials and functionality:

• EX Wireless Mouse: 29,99 $* **EX1 Keyboard (Compact):** 49,99$ (comparable prices in euros) 

• EX3 Keyboard (Full Size): 69,99 $

If you're looking for a home office upgrade that looks prestigious, but costs less than the average weekly grocery shopping, this is probably the best investment of this year.

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FAQ: 5 quick ones for those in a hurry

1. Can I replace the battery myself at home?

Absolutely. You don't even need tools for the mouse, and for the keyboard, just a simple screwdriver for one screw. No heating up glue or going to the service center.

2. Do these devices work with Mac and Windows?

Yes, and it works flawlessly. The keyboards even have a physical slider to switch between key layouts (Command vs. Alt), so you won't have to guess at shortcuts.

3. Do the keyboards have backlit keys?

No. Satechi sacrificed lighting for an ultra-slim profile and longer battery life. You'll just be typing by the light, which is better for your eyes anyway.

4. Is the mouse suitable for gaming?

Honestly? Not really. It's an office mouse with an emphasis on ergonomics and quiet operation. Keep your RGB beast for Call of Duty, but keep this one for serious work.

5. How do I charge these devices?

Via the standard USB-C port. In 2026, anything else (we're looking at you, micro-USB) would be a criminal offense.