MX Keys vs MX Keys S – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Logitech MX Keys S & Logitech MX Keys share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Logitech MX Keys S rather than the Logitech MX Keys

Why Do I Recommend The Logitech MX Keys S

  • The Logitech MX Keys S supports Logi Options+ software with Smart Actions for advanced customization and workflow automation, while the Logitech MX Keys uses the older Logi Options software with limited customization and no automation.
  • Logitech MX Keys S includes updated function keys for dictation, emoji access, and microphone mute to improve productivity during modern communication, whereas the Logitech MX Keys retains the original function row without these dedicated shortcuts.
  • It features refined adaptive backlighting with more responsive sensors for consistent brightness adjustments in varying lighting conditions, while the Logitech MX Keys uses standard adaptive backlighting with less sensitivity.
  • The Logitech MX Keys S comes with the Logi Bolt receiver for stronger wireless security and improved reliability in congested environments, whereas the Logitech MX Keys uses the older Unifying receiver with weaker encryption.
  • Logitech MX Keys S incorporates firmware improvements for better power efficiency and longer standby performance, while the Logitech MX Keys relies on older firmware that provides standard battery efficiency.
  • It receives ongoing software updates through Logi Options+ to ensure compatibility with new operating systems and features, whereas the Logitech MX Keys has legacy support with fewer updates.
  • The Logitech MX Keys S is constructed with a higher percentage of recycled materials for environmentally conscious production, whereas the Logitech MX Keys uses minimal recycled plastic.
  • Logitech MX Keys S is available in Graphite, Pale Gray, and Black to suit a wider range of desk setups, while the Logitech MX Keys is only available in Graphite and Pale Gray.

Maybe the Logitech MX Keys price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Logitech MX Keys S. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureLogitech MX Keys SLogitech MX Keys
SoftwareLogi Options+Logi Options
AutomationSmart Actions supportedNo Smart Actions
Function RowIncludes Dictation, Emoji, Mic Mute keysNo Dictation, Emoji, Mic Mute keys
BacklightingRefined adaptive backlightingStandard adaptive backlighting
Connectivity ReceiverLogi Bolt USB receiverUnifying USB receiver
Power EfficiencyImproved firmware for longer standbyStandard firmware efficiency
Recycled Material Use11%–26%Minimal recycled plastic
Supported OSWindows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, iPadOSWindows, macOS, limited Options support
Color OptionsGraphite, Pale Gray, BlackGraphite, Pale Gray
Sustainability FocusYes, eco-certified buildNo eco-certification
Function Key CustomizationExpanded in Options+Limited in Options
Software UpdatesActively updated in Options+Legacy support only
SecurityBolt receiver with better encryptionUnifying receiver with standard encryption
PriceCheck MX Keys S PriceCheck MX Keys Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Keyboard Layout: Both keyboards feature a full-size layout with a numpad and function row, providing a complete typing experience for productivity tasks.
  • Key Mechanism: Each model uses Logitech’s Perfect Stroke scissor-switch keys, delivering a quiet, laptop-like tactile typing feel for comfort and precision.
  • Backlighting: Both include automatic backlighting with hand proximity and ambient light sensors, ensuring visibility in low-light environments.
  • Multi-Device Pairing: Each can connect to up to three devices simultaneously and switch seamlessly using Easy-Switch keys for efficient workflow management.
  • Wireless Connectivity: Both support Bluetooth Low Energy technology, enabling stable wireless connections with a range of up to 10 meters.
  • Battery Life: Each provides up to 10 days of use with backlighting on or up to 5 months with backlighting off, reducing the need for frequent charging.
  • Charging Method: Both feature USB-C charging, allowing fast recharging with modern, universal cables.
  • Build & Design: Each keyboard is built with an aluminum top plate and slim, minimal design, offering a premium and professional aesthetic.
  • Cross-Platform Support: Both support Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, and iPadOS, with dual keycap printing for seamless use across systems.
  • Typing Stability: Each model has large, stable keycaps, enhancing accuracy and comfort during long typing sessions.

Common Features

FeatureLogitech MX Keys SLogitech MX Keys
Keyboard LayoutFull-size layout with numpad and function rowFull-size layout with numpad and function row
Key TypeLow-profile scissor-switch keys with Perfect Stroke mechanismLow-profile scissor-switch keys with Perfect Stroke mechanism
Typing ExperienceQuiet, laptop-like tactile feelQuiet, laptop-like tactile feel
BacklightingAutomatic backlighting with hand proximity sensorsAutomatic backlighting with hand proximity sensors
Multi-Device SupportConnects to up to 3 devices simultaneouslyConnects to up to 3 devices simultaneously
Device SwitchingEasy-Switch keys for seamless switchingEasy-Switch keys for seamless switching
Wireless ConnectionBluetooth Low Energy supportedBluetooth Low Energy supported
Battery LifeUp to 10 days with backlight on, up to 5 months with backlight offUp to 10 days with backlight on, up to 5 months with backlight off
Charging PortUSB-C chargingUSB-C charging
Build MaterialAluminum top plate with plastic bodyAluminum top plate with plastic body
DesignSlim, minimal, premium aestheticSlim, minimal, premium aesthetic
CompatibilityWindows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, iPadOSWindows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, iPadOS
Cross-Platform KeysDual layout printing for Windows & MacDual layout printing for Windows & Mac
StabilityStable key switches with large keycapsStable key switches with large keycaps
Backlight AdjustmentAdaptive brightness & manual adjustmentAdaptive brightness & manual adjustment
Wireless RangeUp to 10 metersUp to 10 meters
Battery TypeRechargeable Li-PoRechargeable Li-Po
Included AccessoriesUSB-C cableUSB-C cable
Price Check MX Keys S Price Check MX Keys Price

FAQ

What type of keyboard are the Logitech MX Keys S and MX Keys?
Both the Logitech MX Keys S and MX Keys are full-size wireless membrane keyboards with low-profile scissor-switch keys designed to deliver a laptop-like, quiet, and precise typing experience.

Do the Logitech MX Keys S and MX Keys support multi-device pairing?
Yes, both models can connect to up to three devices simultaneously and allow users to switch between them instantly using the dedicated Easy-Switch keys.

How long does the battery last on these keyboards?
Both keyboards last up to 10 days with the backlight on or up to 5 months with the backlight off, offering extended use without frequent charging.

What type of charging port do these keyboards use?
Both the MX Keys S and MX Keys use a modern USB-C charging port, allowing fast and convenient charging with widely available cables.

Do the keyboards have backlighting?
Yes, both models feature automatic backlighting that activates when hands approach and adjusts brightness based on ambient lighting conditions, making them ideal for dark environments.

Are the keyboards compatible with Mac and Windows systems?
Yes, both are cross-platform keyboards that support Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, and iPadOS, with dual keycap labeling for Mac and Windows layouts.

What is the difference in software support between the MX Keys S and MX Keys?
The MX Keys S is fully compatible with Logi Options+ software, which includes advanced customization and Smart Actions, while the MX Keys uses the older Logi Options software with fewer features.

Do the keyboards have dedicated function keys for modern shortcuts?
The MX Keys S includes updated function keys for dictation, emoji, and microphone mute, whereas the MX Keys retains the original function row without these new shortcuts.

Which wireless receivers do the keyboards use?
The MX Keys S supports the Logi Bolt receiver, which provides enhanced security and reliable connectivity, while the MX Keys uses the older Unifying receiver.

Is the typing experience the same on both models?
Yes, both provide an identical typing feel with Perfect Stroke scissor-switch keys, offering quiet, stable, and responsive typing for long sessions.

How far is the wireless range of these keyboards?
Both models provide a wireless range of up to 10 meters, ensuring stable connectivity whether paired via Bluetooth or their respective USB receivers.

Do the Logitech MX Keys S and MX Keys have the same build quality?
Yes, both keyboards are built with a durable aluminum top plate and plastic body, giving them a slim, minimal, and professional design.

Are there any differences in sustainability between the two?
Yes, the MX Keys S uses more recycled materials (11–26% depending on color), while the MX Keys does not emphasize sustainability in its design.

What colors are available for the MX Keys S and MX Keys?
The MX Keys S is available in Graphite, Pale Gray, and Black, while the MX Keys is limited to Graphite and Pale Gray options.

Which keyboard is better for future use and updates?
The MX Keys S is better suited for long-term use since it supports the newer Logi Options+ software, offers updated function keys, better security with Logi Bolt, and improved sustainability, making it more future-proof compared to the MX Keys.

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