- Table of Contents
- Intro
- Our Verdict
- Test Results
- Differences
- Compared To Others
- Deals
- Discussions
The Logitech MX Keys is a good productivity keyboard. Its wireless connectivity allows you to pair up to three devices over Bluetooth or its USB dongle, and you can switch easily between the paired devices without having to repeat the pairing process. Typing feels light and responsive due to its scissor switches' short pre-travel distance and low operating force, and its indented keys help minimize typos. Also, typing noise is quiet and shouldn't bother people around you. It's relatively comfortable to type on without a wrist rest due to the keyboard's low profile; however, there are no incline settings. Unfortunately, while there are quite a few programmable buttons, you can only reassign them to preset functions, not macros. Lastly, the latency is a bit high, so it's not ideal for playing fast, reaction-based games, although it should be fine for general desktop use.
Our Verdict
The Logitech MX Keys is a very good keyboard for gaming, although it's mainly due to its scissor switches' short pre-travel distance and low operating force. Unfortunately, its latency is a bit high, so it's not the most ideal for reaction-based games. Also, there are no macro-programmable keys. On the upside, it has backlighting so that you can game in the dark.
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Premium and well-built design.
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Good typing experience.
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Works with any OS and supports multi-device pairing.
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No macro programmability.
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Minimal customization options through software.
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Latency too high for reaction-based games.
The Logitech MX Keys is decent for mobile or tablet use. It has Bluetooth capability, so you can use it with a wide variety of mobile devices running on Android, iOS, or iPadOS. However, it's a full-sized keyboard that might be hard to fit in a backpack.
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Premium and well-built design.
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Good typing experience.
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Works with any OS and supports multi-device pairing.
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Minimal customization options through software.
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Large full-size layout.
The Logitech MX Keys is a very good keyboard for office use. While it lacks incline settings, its low profile design means you likely don't need a wrist rest to type comfortably. It provides a great typing experience with keys that are quiet and easy to actuate. Its wireless connectivity helps reduce the number of cables on your desk, and it supports multi-device pairing so that you can pair multiple devices simultaneously.
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Premium and well-built design.
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Good typing experience.
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Works with any OS and supports multi-device pairing.
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Minimal customization options through software.
The Logitech MX Keys is a good keyboard for programming. It feels well-built, and it's compatible with most desktop operating systems. Its scissor switches provide a light typing experience with good tactile feedback, and its indented keys help reduce typos. Unfortunately, you can't reprogram any of the keys with macros, which may be a problem for some programmers.
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Premium and well-built design.
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Good typing experience.
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Works with any OS and supports multi-device pairing.
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No macro programmability.
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Minimal customization options through software.
The Logitech MX Keys is okay for use with a home theater PC. You can connect wirelessly thanks to its Bluetooth capability, and it has backlighting so that you can see the keys when watching a movie or gaming in the dark. However, it lacks a trackpad, which means you need a dedicated mouse to navigate the user interface.
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Premium and well-built design.
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Good typing experience.
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Works with any OS and supports multi-device pairing.
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Minimal customization options through software.
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No trackpad.
- 8.0 Gaming
- 7.0 Mobile/Tablet
- 7.8 Office
- 7.8 Programming
- 6.9 Entertainment / HTPC
- Updated Sep 23, 2022: Updated the review based on user comments about the issues "time of flight" backlighting sensor.
- Updated May 27, 2022: We initially reported the Logitech MX Keys as being made of metal. After user feedback, we investigated and discovered the building material was actually a high-quality plastic. The review text has been amended, and there has been no change to the scoring.
- Updated Mar 03, 2021: Updated review for accuracy and clarity.
- Updated Feb 04, 2021: Converted to Test Bench 1.0.
- Updated Jan 29, 2020: We discovered that Logitech's Options software supports Cloud Sync, as well as the ability to set different profiles for specific programs. The review has been updated to reflect these changes, and some scores have changed.
- Updated Jan 20, 2020: Review published.
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Test Results
The Logitech MX Keys has a fairly small footprint. While it isn't as small as TenKeyLess keyboards, it has minimal borders beyond its keys which helps keep it as small as possible without feeling cramped. There's also a compact version of the board called the Logitech MX Keys Mini. For a smaller full-size design, check out the Logitech K780.
The Logitech MX Keys' build quality is great. The entire frame is made of a high-quality plastic that looks like metal, and the keys are made from dense and good-quality plastic. Unfortunately, the keyboard has some flex to it, and the frame beneath the spacebar feels loose and wiggly. On the upside, the keyboard feels quite sturdy overall, and its feet are grippy enough to prevent any movement on the desk while typing. If you prefer something with even better build quality, then check out the Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad.
The Logitech MX Keys has decent ergonomics. It's a straight keyboard with no incline settings, so you can't adjust the angle. Most people shouldn't need a wrist rest due to the keyboard's low profile, though Logitech does make a companion low-profile palm rest that you can purchase separately. For a more ergonomic keyboard, check out the Logitech ERGO K860 Wireless Split Keyboard.
The Logitech MX Keys has white-only backlighting that shines through the key legends and makes them easy to read in the dark. There's a built-in sensor that recognizes when your hands are nearby to turn the backlighting on or off to conserve battery. This sensor also has an adaptive brightness feature that changes the brightness of the backlighting depending on the light overhead. However, many users have reported issues with the proximity sensor, including but not limited to the sensor not responding or the sensor shutting off too quickly, which impacts the overall use of the keyboard, especially in dark environments. That said, if you prefer RGB backlighting, consider the Keychron K1.
The Logitech MX Keys charges via a USB-C cable. When plugged in, the keyboard still communicates to the PC via the wireless transmitter.
The Logitech MX Keys is an extremely versatile wireless keyboard. It can be used via Bluetooth or its proprietary USB dongle, and you can pair up to three devices simultaneously so that you can switch between them without having to repeat the pairing process. You can switch between the paired devices with the three buttons next to the function keys.
The Logitech MX Keys has minimal extra features. There are media buttons along the top of the keyboard, and they double as the function keys when holding down 'Fn'. You can reprogram all the media keys to do a wide range of actions, as well as open any program or file on your PC. You can also set a second layer of functions that can be accessed by pressing Fn+Esc. Unfortunately, you can't set macros to them. This keyboard is compatible with Logitech Flow, which lets you copy and paste files from one PC to another using the same keyboard, even if they use different operating systems. If you want a near-identical keyboard that has a unique dial that you can program to perform different tasks, check out the Logitech Craft. For something similarly well-made that has a built-in trackpad, check out the Corsair K83 Wireless Entertainment Keyboard.
- Logitech MX Keys keyboard
- USB-A to USB-C cable
- Unifying USB receiver
- Quick Start manual
As is common with scissor switches, the pre-travel distance is very short, resulting in greater responsiveness. The tactile bump requires a bit of force to get over, but it still feels light and shouldn't cause fatigue over time.
The Logitech MX Keys' typing quality is great. The keys are stable, easy to actuate, and provide tactile feedback. They're indented to make it easier to hit the key in the center, which helps reduce typos. Most people shouldn't need a wrist rest due to the keyboard's low profile, although Logitech does sell one separately. Unfortunately, the material on the keys themselves doesn't feel as good as some other keyboards. Or, if you'd prefer a similar keyboard with mechanical switches, check out the Logitech MX Mechanical.
Typing noise on the Logitech MX Keys is quiet and shouldn't bother those around you.
The latency is okay. It should be fine for general productivity, but not ideal for playing fast-paced, reaction-based games.
This keyboard uses the Logitech Options software to set its programmable buttons. Unfortunately, while you can reassign quite a few buttons to a preset list of different functions, you can't set macros to them. This is likely fine for most daily or office use, but the lack of macros may be disappointing to programmers. On the upside, you can set different profiles for specific programs, and the keyboard is recognized in the software even when used via Bluetooth.
The Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated Keyboard has outstanding compatibility. All keys work as intended on Windows and macOS. The media buttons don't work on Linux, and the 'Calculator' key doesn't work on mobile devices running on Android, iOS, or iPadOS.
Differences Between Sizes And Variants
We tested the 'Multi-OS' version of the Logitech MX Keys in the Graphite color. This version is also available in black, though it isn't available through all retailers. Some users have reported a slightly different feel to the keys between the black and the Graphite versions, but we can't speak to this. There's also a variant with Mac-specific symbols that's available in Space Grey to match other Apple products, though we haven't tested it. If you have this keyboard and it doesn't seem to line up with our results, let us know in the discussions.
Compared To Other Keyboards
The Logitech MX Keys is one of the best non-mechanical office keyboards we've tested. Even though it doesn't offer the same ergonomics as the Logitech ERGO K860 Wireless Split Keyboard, fans of traditional, straight keyboards should be happy with it. The typing quality is great and the low profile means it doesn't get too tiring typing on this keyboard. Also see our recommendations for the best keyboards, the best wireless keyboards, and the best keyboards for writers.
The Apple Magic Keyboard 2017 and the Logitech MX Keys are both good, low-profile, wireless office keyboards. The Logitech has a multi-device pairing feature, while the Apple can only connect to one device at a time. The Logitech also has backlighting and software for customization. The Apple feels sturdier, but the typing quality also feels better on the Logitech as the Apple requires a bit more force to operate the keys. The Apple is a compact 75% model, but there's also a full-sized model available. On the other hand, the Logitech is full-sized, but there's also a compact 75% model, the Logitech MX Keys Mini.
The Logitech MX Keys is a better wireless keyboard than the Logitech Craft. The two keyboards offer a very similar experience. While the MX Keys lacks the Craft's unique dial, it may represent a better value for some people.
The Logitech MX Keys is a better keyboard than the Logitech K780 overall. It features backlighting, which is nice and is rechargeable instead of using batteries like the K780. Both use very similar switches, but the MX Keys' keycaps feel a bit better, and the keys are easier to actuate.
The Logitech MX Keys Mini is a similar but more compact version of the full-size Logitech MX Keys. The MX Keys has a numpad and navigation keys which the smaller version lacks. Also, it comes with Logitech's unifying receiver, which you can use to connect with multiple Logitech devices. Comparatively, the Mini isn't compatible with the unifying receiver, and while it's compatible with the Logi Bolt USB receiver, you need to buy it separately. Also, the Mini includes some new function keys, like a dictation key, a mic mute key, and an emoji key, but some don't work on certain operating systems.
The Logitech MX Keys is a better wireless keyboard than the Logitech K800. It's better-built, can be used over Bluetooth with three devices simultaneously, offers better backlighting, and has a noticeably better typing quality. If your budget allows it, the MX Keys is better in almost every category.
The Logitech G915 LIGHTSPEED is better overall than the Logitech MX Keys, but their differences come down to their uses. The G915 is a wireless gaming keyboard with mechanical switches, full RGB backlighting, and dedicated macro-programmable keys. Also, it has much lower latency to provide a more responsive gaming experience. The MX Keys is designed for office use with very quiet scissor switches, a great typing quality, and Bluetooth pairing with up to three devices at once.
The Logitech MX Keys is a much better overall keyboard than the Logitech K380. The MX Keys has a better build quality, better typing experience, and has white backlighting. The K380 is smaller and lighter so it's much easier to carry around and, like the MX Keys, has multi-device pairing with up to three devices via Bluetooth. The MX Keys is more suited for in-office use while the K380 is designed to be used on-the-go.
The Logitech MX Keys is significantly better than the Microsoft Surface Keyboard. The Logitech has better wireless versatility, as it can be paired using an USB receiver or through Bluetooth, and it can be paired to three devices simultaneously. The Logitech also has programmable keys and can be customized using Logitech's Options software, however, the Microsoft's build quality is much better.
The Logitech ERGO K860 Wireless Split Keyboard and the Logitech MX Keys are very different. The K860 is a split keyboard that includes a fixed wrist rest, while the MX Keys has a straight board design. Both keyboards have wireless connectivity and multi-device pairing, but only the MX Keys has backlighting. They both provide a great typing experience; however, the K860's keys require a bit more force to actuate, and it might take longer to get used to its split layout.
Overall, the Razer Pro Type is much better than the Logitech MX Keys. They're both designed with productivity in mind and share similar features like wireless connectivity, multi-device pairing, and a full-size layout with backlit keys. However, the Razer is a mechanical keyboard with Razer Orange switches and provides a significantly better typing experience than the scissor switches on the Logitech. The Logitech has better compatibility with various operating systems, but the Razer is more customizable because every key is programmable.
For most uses, the Logitech MX Keys is better than the Keychron K4. Both are wireless keyboards, and both have a multi-device pairing feature for multitasking. Although both feel great to type on, they provide very different typing experiences since the Logitech is a low-profile keyboard with scissor switches, and the Keychron is a mechanical keyboard with a fairly high profile. The Logitech has software support, which the Keychron doesn't have, and it produces less typing noise, which is better for quiet offices.
The Logitech MX Keys and the Logitech MX Mechanical are two full-size wireless keyboards designed for office use. Overall, they share similar features and functionality, but the MX Keys uses scissor switches whereas the MX Mechanical uses mechanical switches. Also, the MX Keys is compatible with the Logitech unifying receiver while the MX Mechanical uses the BOLT receiver.
The Logitech MX Keys is a more versatile keyboard than the Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad. The Logitech has multi-device pairing with up to three devices at once, and it has white backlighting, both of which the Apple doesn't have. The Logitech also has dedicated software to reprogram a few function keys, and it works fully on Windows and macOS. However, the Apple keyboard is meant for Mac computers and it has a Touch ID button, which the Logitech doesn't have.
The Logitech MX Keys and the Razer Pro Type Ultra are both wireless office boards, but they use different switch types. The Logitech has typical scissor switches, which provide tactile feedback when you actuate a key. On the other hand, the Razer comes with Razer Yellow switches, which are linear and don't provide feedback. Also, its backlighting is brighter. If you're looking for a board you can also occasionally game with, the Razer has much lower latency.
The Logitech MX Keys and the Keychron K10 are different types of office keyboards. Typing is great on both, but choosing one over the other depends if you prefer mechanical or non-mechanical keyboards. The K10 is mechanical and available with three types of mechanical switches, so you can get the ones you like, and it has full RGB backlighting. The Logitech is a non-mechanical option with scissor switches, and it has white backlighting. They each have Bluetooth support with up to three devices at once, but the Logitech also has a proprietary receiver. The Logitech has more customization options, too, as you can reprogram some function keys.
The Logitech MX Keys is better for office use than the Logitech K845. The MX Keys' scissor switches on our unit are much quieter than the Cherry MX Blues on our K845 unit, so it shouldn't be loud in an open office. Also, it's wireless and has a multi-device pairing feature, has a lower profile, and it's fully compatible with both macOS and Windows. However, the K845 has a higher pre-travel distance, which should help prevent typos.
The Logitech MX Keys and the Keychron K3 (Version 2) are both wireless keyboards designed for productivity use. The Keychron is mechanical, and you can select from a wide array of low-profile switches to use in the board or opt for the hot-swappable variant to put in your own. Also, the Keychron is a compact 75% size, and it has two incline settings for better ergonomics. On the other hand, the Logitech is a full-size board that uses scissor switches that provide a lighter typing experience. It also comes with companion software, meaning you can remap buttons.
The Logitech MX Keys is better than the Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard. It feels more high-end, has white backlighting, offers a better overall typing quality, and can be connected to up to three devices simultaneously. However, if you don't like scissor switches and prefer a bit longer travel distance, go with the Microsoft and its rubber dome switches.
The Logitech MX Keys is a better wireless keyboard than the Logitech K360. The MX Keys feels better built, has Bluetooth support, and has white backlighting. On the other hand, the K360 has equally comfortable ergonomics and is available at a much lower price.
The Logitech MX Keys and the Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad 2021 are keyboards with low profiles; however, they're for different uses. The Apple is a folio board meant to be used with the iPad Pro and iPad Air only, so it isn't compatible with any operating system except for iPadOS. Also, it doesn't have a USB receiver, Bluetooth, or a cable, so it can't pair with any other devices since it only uses the Smart Connector to connect to the iPad. On the other hand, the Logitech is for office use, so it has a USB receiver, Bluetooth, and can pair with up to three devices at once. It's much larger with a function row and a Numpad, and it's compatible with many operating systems.
The Logitech MX Keys is a better keyboard than the Logitech K350. It feels noticeably higher-end, can connect up to three devices simultaneously, and can also be used with mobile devices via Bluetooth. Its chiclet keys have a very short pre-travel distance and each key is individually lit. The typing quality is much better on the MX Keys, but some people might like the ergonomic board design of the K350 better.
The Logitech MX Keys is a full-size board, while the Logitech POP Keys is a compact 75% board. If you want a thin board with a numpad, home cluster keys, and scissor switches, you'll prefer the MX Keys. Also, it has a built-in, rechargeable battery, unlike the POP Keys that uses two AAA batteries. On the other hand, if you're looking for a brightly-colored, compact 75% board with dedicated emoji keys, the POP Keys is a better choice. Also, it uses tactile TTC Brown switches, which are mechanical. Unfortunately, the rounded keys don't provide the best typing experience.
The Logitech MX Keys is a better keyboard than the Logitech K400 Plus. The MX Keys has a rechargeable battery and can pair with up to three devices at once via Bluetooth, unlike the K400 Plus that uses AA batteries and doesn't support Bluetooth. The MX Keys also has a built-in brightness sensor that will turn on backlighting to help you type even in darker rooms. However, the MX Keys has a Numpad instead of a trackpad, so you would need to have an accompanying mouse if you wanted to use it with a home theater setup.
The Logitech MX Keys is a better keyboard than the AmazonBasics K4R. The Logitech is noticeably better built, offers a better typing experience, and has backlighting. It also connects to devices via Bluetooth, so it's a bit more versatile than the AmazonBasics as well. The only thing better with the AmazonBasics is the fact that it has an integrated touchpad.
The Logitech MX Keys is a better office keyboard than the Keychron K1. The Logitech has scissor switches that provide a better typing experience, but the keys do require a bit more force to actuate than the Keychron. Also, it uses the Logitech Options companion software and is fully compatible with macOS and Windows. That said, the Keychron has full RGB backlighting, whereas the Logitech has white backlighting.
The Logitech MX Keys and the Keychron K14 are good wireless office keyboards. The Logitech is a low-profile, full-sized keyboard. It doesn't have any incline settings or an included wrist rest, but it has better ergonomics due to its low-profile, making it comfortable to type on for long periods. It has scissor switches with a tactile bump that requires a bit of force to get over, but they also feel very responsive thanks to a very low travel distance. It also has slightly lower latency, though neither board is very well-suited for gaming. On the other hand, the Keychron is a compact 70% keyboard available in a range of Gateron G Pro or Keychron Mechanical switches.
The Logitech MX Keys and the Das Keyboard 4 Professional are very different keyboards. The Logitech is a wireless keyboard, which means it can be used with mobile devices, and you won't have a cable running from the TV to the couch in a home theater PC setup. It has backlighting, multi-device pairing, and it provides a better and quieter typing experience. The Das Keyboard has dedicated media keys and USB passthroughs, which the Logitech lacks. Neither keyboards are recommended for fast-paced gaming as they both have relatively high latency.