Logitech MX Keys S Wireless Keyboard:
The Logitech MX Keys S Wireless Keyboard has made a significant mark in the realm of computer peripherals, recognized for its sleek design, functionality, and innovative features. As a keyboard that caters to a broad audience, from casual users to professionals, it boasts various capabilities that enhance productivity and comfort. This review will delve into the key features, user experiences, and overall performance of this keyboard.
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetic Appeal
The MX Keys S is available in a sophisticated Graphite color that complements modern workspace aesthetics. Its low-profile design is not just visually appealing but also ergonomically crafted to provide a comfortable typing experience. The keyboard dimensions of 16.93 x 5.18 x 0.8 inches and a weight of 2.38 pounds add to its sturdiness, ensuring it remains stable during use, even during intense gaming sessions.
Key Feel and Typing Experience
Users have praised the keyboard for its fluid typing experience. The spherically-dished keys are designed to fit the shape of your fingertips, allowing for a fast and precise typing experience. Many reviews highlight that the keys provide a satisfying tactile feedback without the excessive clicking noise common in traditional keyboards. This feature makes it suitable for office environments or shared spaces where noise could be a distraction.
Comfort
The MX Keys S has a solid build and an optimum keyboard angle, which promotes better wrist posture. Users who suffer from carpal tunnel or ulnar tunnel syndrome have reported a reduction in discomfort while using this keyboard, thanks to its thoughtful design. The low-profile keys are perfect for extended typing sessions, making it a great choice for both work and leisure.
Functionality
Multi-Device Connectivity
One of the standout features of the Logitech MX Keys S is its ability to pair with up to three devices simultaneously across various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome. Users can switch between devices effortlessly with just the press of a button, making it ideal for those who work in multi-device environments. The inclusion of Bluetooth Low Energy and the Logi Bolt USB receiver ensures stable and reliable connectivity.
Smart Illumination
The backlighting feature is another highlight, where the keys light up as your hands approach. The illumination adapts to the surrounding environment, enhancing usability in low-light conditions. Users appreciate the ability to customize the backlighting through the Logi Options+ app, further improving the overall user experience.
Programmable Keys and Smart Actions
The MX Keys S allows users to create and share Smart Actions shortcuts, enabling them to perform multiple actions with a single keystroke. This feature is particularly useful for automating repetitive tasks, thus streamlining workflow and increasing productivity.
Battery Life and Charging
With a rechargeable lithium polymer battery, the MX Keys S boasts impressive battery life. Users can expect up to 10 days of use on a full charge, or up to 5 months with the backlighting turned off. The quick charging capability via USB-C is an added convenience, ensuring that the keyboard is ready whenever you need it.
User Experiences
Positive Feedback
The feedback surrounding the MX Keys S has been overwhelmingly positive. Many users have reported a significant improvement in their typing experience, with a few commenting on how the keyboard has replaced multiple keyboards on their desks, resulting in a tidier workspace. The weight and build quality have also been highlighted, with users noting that it feels premium and stable during use.
Areas for Improvement
Despite its many strengths, a few users have mentioned potential drawbacks. Some find the price point a bit steep for budget-conscious buyers. While the quality and features justify the cost, it may not be accessible for everyone. Additionally, while many have found the keyboard comfortable for general typing and media tasks, a few coders feel that the layout may not be ideal for extensive programming work.
Conclusion
The Logitech MX Keys S Wireless Keyboard stands out as a top-tier option for anyone looking for a versatile, high-quality keyboard. With features that cater to a variety of needs—from its low-profile design and smart illumination to its multi-device capabilities and programmable keys—this keyboard is truly designed for modern users.
Overall Rating: 4.6/5⭐
In summary, while there are minor drawbacks, the Logitech MX Keys S Wireless Keyboard delivers an exceptional typing experience backed by innovative features and solid construction. It earns a well-deserved rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a premium keyboard experience.
Kat Sarracco –
I bought 8 MX Keys keyboards since November 2019, and I have to say the keyboard itself is fantastic. The key feel, rechargeable feature, and the ability to connect to three devices with the “flow” function are all highlights. However, be aware that there are no replacement keycaps available, so I recommend registering your product.
Update: October 16, 2020
I’ve noticed that the Logitech Support team actively reviews MX feedback on Amazon. After I shared my experience, a Logitech Operations Manager reached out to me with an offer for a replacement MX Keys keyboard. They expressed sincere apologies for the situation and acknowledged that the communication could have been better. Although I had already fixed my original keyboard, they generously offered to send a replacement for me to keep as a backup or use elsewhere. I truly appreciated this level of customer service, which led me to change my star rating in recognition of their efforts.
Update: October 7, 2020
I found replacement keycaps and hinge clips from laptopkeys.com by searching for the Logitech Craft keyboard, and they fit perfectly. The keycaps and hinge clips for the MX Keys and Craft keyboards are compatible, although the function keys and hotkeys have slight layout differences. Reviews have noted that the typing feel is quite similar.
Update: October 6, 2020
What I really needed were the hinge switches for the keycaps, as the corners broke off. I tried using switches from old Bluetooth keyboards, but the fit was only close. I ended up scavenging parts from keys I don’t use, which made the repair quite simple.
I repaired the A key by using a hinge from the * key on the numeric keypad. The left opt/start key had a missing metal retainer, which I replaced with one from the right opt/ctrl key. I didn’t notice the missing retainer when collecting the pieces, and it likely got vacuumed up during cleaning. For the time being, I used tape on the original keycaps that were damaged.
CASE HISTORY: September 13 – October 5, 2020
Through the one-year warranty, Logitech offered to replace the keyboard. They required the following:
What happened?
Amazon Customer –
A couple of years ago, I wrote a harsh review about the decline in the quality of Logitech products. I was experiencing issues with their mice—the buttons were malfunctioning—and I urgently needed a working mouse, so I bought the same model from a local store, only to find it had the same problems. Eventually, I opted for a $100 mouse designed for CAD professionals. Since then, I’ve purchased a Logitech mechanical keyboard with Cherry keys, which has turned out to be a fantastic product that I absolutely love. I’ve also bought a few Logitech mice recently, and I haven’t encountered any issues with them.
This keyboard exceeded my expectations; it has a solid feel and is surprisingly heavy for its size. I wanted it to easily switch between three different computers: one running Windows 10 and two Linux machines in my man cave. I had recently bought two HDMI KVM switches, but both were dead on arrival, not working at all right out of the box, even though they were from different manufacturers. My monitor has three inputs, so I just needed one keyboard and mouse for all three systems.
The Logitech MX mouse is still on its way. Setting up the keyboard was a bit tricky. The Windows machine was easy to set up, but after a restart, the keyboard lost its pairing. I had to dig out my old keyboard to log into Windows, which was inconvenient since Windows tends to restart itself frequently. Fortunately, a firmware update for this keyboard resolved the issue, and you can download the update through the Logitech software on their website.
On my Linux Mint machine, which had blueman software preinstalled, I had to make several attempts to get the pairing to stick, partly because I was inexperienced with blueman after only using it a couple of times for pairing Bluetooth headphones. I discovered that marking the keyboard as trusted was necessary for a stable connection. Initially, it kept connecting and disconnecting until I did that. Now it works perfectly and reconnects after a restart.
On my third computer running Debian 12, I couldn’t get the keyboard to pair at all. This machine is part of my stereo system, connected to my amps via a DAC, and I can control it from my phone, tablet, or a web GUI on another computer. It would be great if it worked with Debian, but it’s not a dealbreaker.
I almost deducted a star because the product information is misleading. The product page states: “Compatibility: Compatible with Logi Bolt USB Receiver (not included). Logi Bolt wireless products will not pair with other Logitech USB receivers.” In reality, you don’t need the Bolt USB Receiver to use this keyboard. I’m currently using it with Bluetooth receivers from TP Link and Knvo, and the Bolt receivers I ordered are still on their way, despite being part of the same order as the keyboard. Once they arrive, I’ll likely use them since I had to borrow Bluetooth dongles from my other computers to get this working immediately. The limited instructions that came with the keyboard only mentioned pairing via Bluetooth and didn’t even reference the Bolt receiver.
HyoJi Y. –
Great item!
HyoJi Y. –
This keyboard is stunning and feels great to use. Its compact design is perfect for those in tech or media, but it may not be ideal for coding since the keys cater more to media usage and casual typing. It works seamlessly with Windows and can pair with up to two additional devices. I have it connected to my Samsung TV, Windows laptop, and iPad, and switching between them is as easy as pressing one button. It’s excellent for remote work via the smart TV and for sharing screens from my laptop. The small size makes it convenient for use on a lap desk, yet it offers full functionality for all MS Office applications as well as media software like Adobe Photoshop. Plus, it has a beautiful, minimalist, modern design and features backlighting for the keys.
W from H Town –
I usually have several keyboards cluttering my desk: one for my phone connected to the monitor (Samsung Dex), another for my gaming PC, and a third for work. They’re all compact, yet they still take up a lot of space. This keyboard has replaced all of them, making my desk much tidier. Now, I just have a trackball, a mouse, and this keyboard. Switching between devices is seamless and incredibly fast. The key feel is outstanding, with a satisfying spring action. The keyboard is solid and stays put even during intense gaming sessions. Plus, it looks fantastic on my desk. I also purchased a Logitech Bolt to easily connect it to my work laptop, and it even works for entering pre-OS encryption passwords.
A.T –
It connects easily for multiple devices and appears to be in good condition. However, it arrived with a discolored spot, and I hope it doesn’t wear off with use, especially since this keyboard is quite expensive. On the plus side, it has excellent multi-connection technology.
BNix –
These keys have a truly luxurious feel, with a velvet texture that makes them easy to press. The backlight activates when your hands approach, which is a nice touch. The rechargeable battery is impressive—I’ve only needed to recharge it once in the two weeks since I got it. The keys operate quietly, and I haven’t noticed any lag in key registration. It’s the ideal keyboard for me, featuring dedicated keys for screenshots, media, and the microphone. The typing experience is incredibly smooth, making it well worth the investment. It’s beautifully designed, lightweight, and highly portable.
Kat Sarracco –
This is the best keyboard I’ve ever bought! I was aware that it had some weight, but I was pleasantly surprised by how solid it feels. The incline is just right, and the rounded indent in the keys keeps my fingers from slipping, making it very comfortable to use. I’ve noticed a significant reduction in my carpal and ulnar tunnel pain, which I attribute to the design of this keyboard. The battery lasts easily for 10 days with daily use of over 8 hours. And the best part? No annoying clicking sounds!
A.T –
I upgraded to the Logitech MX Keys three months ago, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. Here’s why this wireless keyboard deserves all the accolades:
Pros:
Cons:
I truly had a hard time finding any major downsides. However, if I must mention some: