Logitech Master Series - MX Keys keyboard product reviews

Back in 2013, I got one of the Logitech K750 solar keyboards. It instantly became the best keyboard I had ever owned, and 8 years later it finally died, when the tiny rechargeable battery inside it reached the end of its life. While on the hunt for a new wireless keyboard, I happened to meet one of the team from Logitech, who introduced me to the MX Keys. He kindly ran me through all the features, and while it lacked that stunning "solar powered" feature, it did have some additional features that I found highly appealing.

One of the biggest drawcards was the multi-device capability. When paired with a wifi dongle and built-in bluetooth, it meant that for once I could type messages on my phone without the typos caused by BiF-SmaKS (Big Fingers, Small Keyboard Syndrome), while at the same time continuing to work on the PC. It also meant that I could add another device to the mix should I feel the need, since this clever beastie can pair with up to three devices and switch between them seamlessly with the press of one of the 'device selector' buttons.

Despite not being solar-powered, this keyboard is wireless and seems to be quite power-efficient. There is a USB-C port on the back to allow you to recharge the unit, and because it doesn't need the cable to connect to the PC, you can power it off any source you like. Currently, I have it hooked up to a small solar panel array from Sunsaver so that it is always trickle-charging whenever there's any light in the room. While not the same, it's a very effective hack and one that ensures I always have a powered-up keyboard that retains its portability.

Because the intended usage for this keyboard was in the video editing suite / home theatre room I was in the process of setting up, the option of backlighting behind the keys that would come on as soon as my hands were close and fade away shortly after I lifted my hands was just too dinky to overlook. Sure, it's somewhat of a gimmick and doesn't have much impact on productivity, what's wrong with having some fun stuff thrown in?

When you first set up the keyboard, it is a very good idea to download the Logitech Options app, as this lets you configure some of the keys, adjust the backlighting settings, etc. As this is a very new bit of kit, the app is still under development and new features and capabilities are coming out all the time. You can also sign up to the app's beta programme and get access to the Options+ app, which is the testbed for new features. However, it is worth noting two things - firstly, the Logitech Options app works for a range of devices, including mice, so you can set up all your compatible I/O devices from the one place. Secondly, if you sign up to the Options+ beta, for some reason the main Options app stops supporting the MX Keys and hands over total control to Options+. I thought this was a bit odd, but it still works and since this is the only compatible device I have, it isn't a hassle for me.

Overall, this is a great keyboard and while it hasn't dethroned the K750 from the position as 'best KB ever' for me, it's a worthy successor for sure. It is comfortable to use, has the full key-set including a separate keypad, and is highly functional. I did like how it was possible to configure the keyboard to react differently depending on which app was in use - eg. Setting the function keys as media controls when I'm watching a movie, but automatically reverting to standard F-keys when I switch back to Photoshop - and if pressed, the only thing I would wish for was RGB LEDs for backlighting, so I could colour-match with the rest of my rig. That said, this is a quality device and I look forward to many years of comfortable keyboarding.

This is a keyboard for people who want to be creative and coder. It has keys that make a good stroke. It feels good on your fingers too. The keyboard also stays in one spot, so it does not slide around your desk as other ones do. Your fingers love the keys because they are round and have a matte finish, so they glide easily on them. The intensity of the backlights automatically changes for your needs. I like that you can adapt to your surroundings and not have it be too bright or too dark. You can even choose how keys light up!

You can use more than one computer with this keyboard too. It works with Windows, macOS, Linux, and iOS and Android devices. I did not know you could use a keyboard with different operating systems until now! It comes with a cable to charge the keyboard in case it runs out of battery. The USB-C rechargeable battery can last up to 10 days without backlight, and 5 months with backlighting turned off. It is an environmentally friendly product as well, containing sustainable and recycled materials.

As a busy parent, I like products that are responsible and have a good design. Although this keyboard costs more than other ones, I think it is worth the money because you get what you pay for.