The Logitech MX Keys vs. MX Keys S: A Battle Between Generations
The world of wireless keyboards is vast, with Logitech’s MX series reigning supreme for many users. Within this lineup, the MX Keys and the newer MX Keys S stand out as compelling options for productivity enthusiasts. But which one deserves a place on your desk?
This article dives deep into the key differences between these two keyboards. We’ll compare aspects like hardware, software features, and overall typing experience. Whether you’re a longtime MX Keys user considering an upgrade or a newcomer new keyboard, seeking the best Logitech keyboard, this breakdown will equip you to make an informed decision.
Let’s start by examining the key core functionalities both the MX Keys and MX Keys S share. Both keyboards boast a full-size layout with comfortable low-profile scissor switches, a wireless design with multi-device connectivity (up to three devices for MX Keys, up to five for MX Keys S), and backlighting that adapts to lighting conditions. They also feature Logitech keyboard software (formerly Logitech Options) for customizing shortcuts and smart actions (MX Keys S only) to automate common tasks.
So, if you’re familiar with the original MX Keys and appreciate its no-nonsense design, comfortable typing experience, and compatibility with both Windows and macOS, the MX Keys S might seem like a simple rehash. But hold on – hardware changes might influence your decision, especially if you prioritize the latest features.
The Logitech MX Keys: A Timeless Classic for Productivity Powerhouses

The ever-expanding landscape of wireless keyboards can feel overwhelming. Amongst a sea of options, the Logitech MX Keys emerges as a contender for the title of ultimate productivity companion. Particularly attractive to Mac users with its sleek, low-profile design, the MX Keys promises seamless integration with your Apple ecosystem. But is it all just aesthetics? This article dives deep into the MX Keys’ strengths and considerations, helping you decide if it’s the perfect fit to elevate your workflow.
The MX Keys goes beyond just looking good on your desk. Low-profile scissor switches deliver a comfortable and quiet typing experience, perfect for extended work sessions, while smart illumination with automatic backlight adjustment ensures optimal visibility, even in low-light environments. This feature is not only functional but also adds a touch of sophistication to your workspace.
The MX Keys caters to a wide range of needs. It boasts multi-device connectivity (up to three devices) with Easy-Switch keys for seamless switching between your computer, laptop, or tablet. Logitech MX Keys Software (formerly Logitech Options) unlocks further customization options, allowing you to program shortcuts and even assign specific keys to frequently used actions. This software empowers you to streamline your workflow without getting bogged down in complex configurations.
A Timeless Design for Seamless Workflow:
The MX Keys features a full-size keyboard layout that caters to users who prefer a dedicated number pad and function keys for tasks like data entry and spreadsheet manipulation. Low-profile scissor switches deliver a satisfying typing experience that’s both quiet and comfortable for extended sessions. The keyboard with whisper-quiet keystrokes are ideal for those who share their workspace or prefer a noise-free environment.
The wireless switch design with multi-device connectivity (up to three devices) allows you to seamlessly switch between your computer, laptop, or tablet using the Easy-Switch keys. This flexibility is a boon for multitaskers who juggle multiple devices throughout the day. Logitech Flow further enhances this experience by allowing you to seamlessly transfer your mouse, cursor and even copied text between devices.
Compatibility Across Platforms:
Unlike some low-profile keyboards that might prioritize aesthetics over functionality, the MX Keys offers compatibility with both Windows and macOS. This makes it a versatile option for users who work across different operating systems. Logi Options+ software (formerly Logitech Options) further enhances your experience. While it doesn’t offer the smart actions feature of the MX Keys S, you can still customize shortcuts to streamline your workflow and maximize productivity. For example, you can program specific keys to launch frequently used applications, insert symbols, or activate pre-defined macros.
A Focus on Essentials: No-Nonsense Design with Long Battery Life:
The MX Keys embraces a no-nonsense design. It prioritizes functionality over flashy features, making it ideal for users who value a clean aesthetic. The backlighting automatically adjusts to lighting conditions, ensuring optimal visibility even in low-light environments. And with a battery life of up to five months on a full charge, you can focus on your work without worrying about constant recharging. This long-lasting battery life is a major advantage, especially for users who travel frequently or dislike the hassle of constantly replacing batteries.
Is the MX Keys Right for You?
If you prioritize a comfortable typing experience, multi-device connectivity, and compatibility across platforms, the MX Keys is a fantastic choice. It might not have the latest features like smart actions found in the MX Keys S, but its proven design, excellent build quality, and long battery life make it a reliable and timeless classic for productivity enthusiasts. However, if you crave the latest features like smart actions and a USB-C port for faster charging (the MX Keys uses a USB-A port), the MX Keys S might be a better fit. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the importance of aesthetics, feature set, and budget when making your decision. You can also explore reviews from other users to get a broader perspective on the MX Keys’ performance and suitability for different workflows.
The Logitech MX Keys S: Unveiling the Next Generation of Productivity Power

The world of wireless keyboards is constantly evolving, and Logitech’s MX series sits at the forefront. While the previous generation of the venerable MX Keys remains a beloved classic, the brand new MX Keys S introduces a wave of innovation. Is it the upgrade you’ve been waiting for? This article explores the key features of the MX Keys S, unveiling if it elevates your productivity game and justifies replacing your current keyboard (including the MX Keys).
The MX Keys S retains the familiar full-size layout of its predecessor, perfect for those who appreciate dedicated number pads and function keys. Low-profile scissor switches continue to deliver a satisfying typing experience that’s quiet and ideal for extended use. However, the MX Keys S takes things a step further with smart actions. This innovative feature, powered by Logitech MX Keys S Software (formerly Logitech Options), allows you to automate common tasks with a single keystroke. Imagine launching a specific app, inserting a symbol, or even activating a pre-defined keyboard macro – all with a customizable key. This streamlines your workflow and frees up valuable time you might otherwise spend navigating menus.
The MX Keys S builds upon the multi-device connectivity (up to five devices) of the original MX Keys, allowing you to switch between your computer, laptop, or tablet with ease using the Easy-Switch keys. Logitech Flow further enhances this by enabling seamless cursor and text transfer between connected devices.
A key hardware upgrade comes in the form of the Logi Bolt USB receiver. This new receiver offers a stronger and more reliable connection compared to the Logitech Unifying receiver used in the MX Keys (and many other compatible Logitech devices). Additionally, the MX Keys S boasts a USB-C port for faster charging, a welcome improvement over the USB-A port of the original version.
Modern Design Meets Enhanced Functionality:
The MX Keys S retains the comfortable, full-size keyboard layout that of its predecessor, perfect for those who appreciate a dedicated number pad and function keys. Low-profile scissor switches continue to deliver a satisfying typing experience that’s quiet and ideal for extended use. However, the MX Keys S takes things a step further with smart actions. This innovative feature, powered by Logi Options+ software (formerly Logitech Options), allows you to automate common tasks with a single keystroke. Imagine launching a specific app, an emoji button, inserting a symbol, or even activating a pre-defined macro – all with a customizable key. This streamlines your workflow and frees up valuable time.
Seamless Connectivity and a Touch of Sophistication:
The MX Keys S retains the multi-device connectivity (up to five compatible devices) of the original MX Keys, allowing you to switch between your computer, laptop, or tablet with ease using the Easy-Switch keys. Logitech Flow further enhances this by enabling seamless cursor and text transfer between connected devices.
A key hardware upgrade comes in the box in the form of the Logi Bolt USB receiver. This new receiver offers a stronger and more reliable connection compared to the Logitech Unifying receiver used in the older MX Keys. Additionally, the logitech MX Keys S boasts a USB-C port for faster charging, a welcome improvement over the USB-A port of the original version.
Aesthetics Meet Functionality: A Keyboard That Stands Out:
While the MX Keys embraced a no-nonsense design, the MX Keys S offers a touch of sophistication. The keyboard comes in a sleek, pale gray finish that complements modern workspaces. The backlighting remains adjustable to lighting conditions, ensuring all keys feel optimal visibility. For those who miss dedicated media keys, the MX and mx Keys S keyboard integrates an emoji key, allowing for quick access to frequently used emojis (Windows only).
Is the MX Keys S Your Perfect Match?
If you crave the latest features like smart actions and a faster charging USB-C port, the MX Keys S is a compelling upgrade. Additionally, the sleek design and stronger Bolt connection might sway your decision. However, if you prioritize a strictly no-frills approach and find the original MX Keys’ price point more attractive, it remains a solid option.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the importance of aesthetics, feature set, and budget when making your decision. Remember, both the MX Keys and MX Keys S offer excellent build quality and a long battery life (up to up to three devices and five months on a full charge). Explore reviews to get a broader perspective on typing experience and suitability for different workflows before making your final choice.
Logitech MX Keys vs. MX Keys S: Picking the Perfect Productivity Partner
Logitech’s MX Keys series reigns supreme in the wireless keyboard arena. But with the new MX Keys S entering the scene, the question arises: which keyboard reigns supreme for you? Let’s compare the MX Keys and MX Keys S across key features to help you decide.
Layout and Connectivity:
- Both keyboards boast a full-size layout with a dedicated number pad and function keys.
- Both offer wireless connectivity with multi-device switching (up to 3 devices for MX Keys, up to 5 for MX Keys S).
- MX Keys S: Uses the newer Logi Bolt USB receiver for a stronger connection (compared to the Unifying receiver in MX Keys).
Typing Experience and Features:
- Both feature low-profile scissor switches for a comfortable and quiet typing experience.
- MX Keys S: Introduces smart actions, powered by Logi Options+ software, allowing you to automate tasks with a single keystroke (Windows and macOS).
- MX Keys: Offers basic customization options through Logi Options+ software.
Hardware and Design:
- MX Keys: Comes in a classic black finish.
- MX Keys S: Features a sleeker, pale gray finish and a USB-C port for faster charging (compared to the USB-A port on MX Keys).
- MX Keys S: Includes an emoji key for quick emoji access (Windows only).
Compatibility and Battery Life:
- Both keyboards are compatible with Windows and macOS.
- Both offer long battery life (up to 5 months on a full charge).
Who Should Choose Which?
- MX Keys: Ideal for users who prioritize a no-frills design, affordability, and a proven typing experience.
- MX Keys S: Perfect for users who crave cutting-edge features like smart actions, a faster charging USB-C port, and a sleek design.
The Verdict:
In conclusion, navigating the world of wireless keyboards can feel overwhelming. Both the MX Keys and MX Keys S from Logitech are excellent choices for productivity enthusiasts, but other keyboards cater to slightly different preferences.
The MX Keys remains a reliable classic, offering a comfortable typing experience, multi-device connectivity, and compatibility with software for both Windows and macOS. Its no-nonsense design and affordable price point make it a compelling option for value-conscious users.
The newer MX Keys S elevates the whole mouse experience with innovative features like Logitech smart actions and a faster charging USB-C port. The sleek design and emoji key (Windows only) add a touch of modernity. However, it comes at a higher price point.
Ultimately, the perfect keyboard depends on your individual needs. Consider if you prioritize affordability and a proven design (MX Keys) or crave cutting-edge features and a modern aesthetic (MX or mx Keys S keyboard). Remember, both keyboards offer excellent build quality, long battery life, and Bluetooth connectivity for Windows and macOS. Explore online reviews to refine your search based on typing feel and suitability for your specific workflow. So, unpack your new MX or mx Keys mini, or MX or mx Keys S keyboard, and get ready to conquer your productivity goals!




