Posted in: Keyboards

Logitech MX Keys vs Apple Magic Keyboard In 2024

Last Updated on February 10, 2024

Are you in the market for a new keyboard, but stuck at the crossroads between the Logitech MX Keys and the Apple Magic Keyboard? The quest for the perfect typing companion can be a daunting one, especially when two heavyweights in the keyboard arena are vying for your attention.

But fear not, as we dive into the ultimate showdown of Logitech MX Keys vs Apple Magic Keyboard, unveiling their secrets, strengths, and subtle nuances that could change the way you interact with your computer forever. Whether you’re a productivity enthusiast, a creative professional, or simply someone who appreciates the art of typing, this head-to-head comparison will help you make an informed decision that suits your every keystroke.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design and build quality, the Logitech MX Keys and Apple Magic Keyboard are two distinct contenders, each with its unique style and construction.

Logitech MX Keys: Sleek and Functional

Logitech MX Keys: Sleek and Functional

The Logitech MX Keys boasts a sleek and modern design that caters to both Mac and Windows users. Its dimensions measure 430 x 131.63 x 20.5 mm, making it a substantial but comfortable keyboard. It has a weight of 810g, signifying its sturdiness.

One notable feature of the MX Keys is its key travel, with a comfortable 1.8mm, allowing for responsive and satisfying typing. The keycaps are made from ABS plastic with a matte coating, ensuring durability and a pleasant touch.

Additionally, the MX Keys offers adjustable backlighting, allowing users to fine-tune brightness to their preferences. It’s a versatile keyboard compatible with Windows, Mac OS, iOS, Android, and Linux, making it suitable for a wide range of users. It even includes a full-sized numeric pad and media navigation keys, enhancing its functionality.

For added comfort, the MX Keys incorporates a built-in cushioned wrist rest, ensuring a pleasant typing experience during extended use.

Apple Magic Keyboard: Minimalistic Elegance

Apple Magic Keyboard: Minimalistic Elegance

In contrast, the Apple Magic Keyboard is celebrated for its minimalistic and elegant design. Its dimensions are notably smaller, measuring 279 x 114.9 x 4.52 mm, resulting in a lightweight profile with a weight of 231g.

The Magic Keyboard offers a key travel of 1mm, providing a distinct typing feel with its scissor mechanism and low-profile keycaps. The key material is optimized for a comfortable and quiet typing experience.

Similar to the MX Keys, the Apple Magic Keyboard features adjustable backlighting, allowing users to adapt to various lighting conditions. It is primarily designed for use with Mac OS and iOS devices, catering to Apple enthusiasts. However, it lacks a full-sized numeric pad.

One aspect where the Magic Keyboard differs significantly from the MX Keys is the absence of a built-in wrist rest. While it maintains a sleek and compact profile, it may not provide the same level of comfort during prolonged typing sessions.

In summary, both the Logitech MX Keys and Apple Magic Keyboard offer high-quality design and build. The MX Keys leans toward functionality, with a larger size, full-sized numeric pad, and cushioned wrist rest. On the other hand, the Apple Magic Keyboard excels in minimalistic elegance and portability.

Your choice between these keyboards may depend on your specific needs and preferences. The Logitech MX Keys is versatile, compatible with multiple operating systems, and caters to users who prioritize functionality and comfort. Meanwhile, the Apple Magic Keyboard is ideal for Mac users seeking a lightweight, stylish, and seamless typing experience within the Apple ecosystem.

Both keyboards provide adjustable backlighting, ensuring that you can type comfortably in various lighting conditions. The price point for both options is approximately $99.99, making them competitive choices in the market.

Ergonomics

When it comes to the ergonomic aspects of keyboards, the Logitech MX Keys and the Apple Magic Keyboard offer distinct features. Let’s take a closer look at their ergonomic specifications:

Logitech MX Keys Ergonomic Features

  • Key Travel: The Logitech MX Keys provides a key travel distance of 1.8mm, allowing for a responsive and comfortable typing experience.
  • Actuation Force: With an actuation force of 60g, the MX Keys ensures consistent and effortless keypresses.
  • Programmable Keys: Logitech MX Keys offers programmable keys through the Logitech Options software, giving users the flexibility to customize key functions according to their needs.
  • Ergonomic Design: While the MX Keys follows a standard keyboard layout, it focuses on ergonomic comfort with curved and concave key design. This design conforms to the natural shape of your fingertips, reducing strain on fingers and wrists.
  • Weight: The keyboard weighs 810g, providing stability during use.
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): Measuring 430 x 131 x 33mm, the MX Keys offers ample space for comfortable typing.

The Logitech MX Keys prioritizes ergonomic comfort with its curved key design, adjustable palm rest, and smart illumination. This keyboard aims to reduce typing-related stress and fatigue, making it suitable for long typing sessions. Its compatibility extends to various operating systems and devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Additionally, it allows seamless switching between up to three devices, enhancing productivity.

Apple Magic Keyboard Ergonomic Features

  • Key Travel: The Apple Magic Keyboard offers a key travel distance of 1mm, providing a stable and precise typing experience.
  • Actuation Force: Like the MX Keys, the Magic Keyboard requires an actuation force of 60g for keypresses.
  • Programmable Keys: Unlike the MX Keys, the Apple Magic Keyboard lacks programmable keys.
  • Ergonomic Design: The Magic Keyboard distinguishes itself with a curved and split design, aimed at reducing wrist strain and promoting a more natural typing position.
  • Weight: It is notably lighter, weighing 396g, making it a portable choice.
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): The Magic Keyboard measures 418 x 114 x 28mm, emphasizing a compact form factor.

Apple’s Magic Keyboard offers ergonomic benefits through its curved and split design, which can enhance comfort during extended typing sessions. It’s also lightweight and compact, suitable for on-the-go use. The keyboard’s backlit keys facilitate typing in low-light conditions. However, it primarily caters to Apple device users and doesn’t offer the extensive compatibility of the Logitech MX Keys.

In summary, both the Logitech MX Keys and the Apple Magic Keyboard have their respective strengths. The MX Keys excels in compatibility, programmability, and versatile features, making it suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Apple Magic Keyboard prioritizes ergonomic comfort with its unique design, making it an excellent choice for those who primarily use Apple devices and value portability. Your choice between these two keyboards will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Backlighting

Logitech MX Keys Backlighting

When it comes to backlighting, both the Logitech MX Keys and the Apple Magic Keyboard offer useful features for enhancing visibility in low-light settings. Here’s a detailed comparison of their backlighting capabilities:

Logitech MX Keys Backlighting

The Logitech MX Keys is equipped with adjustable backlighting that allows users to tailor the brightness to their preference. This keyboard takes it a step further with per-key illumination, meaning each key is individually backlit. This level of precision ensures that you have precise visibility exactly where you need it. The keys themselves are laser-etched with concave key caps, offering a comfortable and accurate typing experience. Notably, this keyboard also incorporates a proximity sensor that detects hand movements, automatically adjusting the backlighting to conserve battery life when not in use.

Apple Magic Keyboard Backlighting

The Apple Magic Keyboard also features backlighting, offering users the ability to illuminate the keys in dimly lit environments. Like the Logitech MX Keys, it provides adjustable brightness settings, allowing you to customize the backlight to your liking. However, the distinction lies in the type of illumination. The Apple Magic Keyboard opts for full-keyboard illumination, where the entire keyboard is backlit uniformly. Additionally, it utilizes an ambient light sensor that automatically adapts the backlighting based on the ambient lighting conditions in the room. The keys themselves are constructed from a durable and responsive material, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.

In summary, both keyboards offer adjustable backlighting with customizable brightness. The Logitech MX Keys provides per-key illumination for precise visibility, while the Apple Magic Keyboard offers uniform full-keyboard backlighting. Your choice between the two may depend on your preference for individual key illumination or a consistent overall keyboard glow.

Wireless Versatility

When it comes to wireless versatility, the Logitech MX Keys and the Apple Magic Keyboard each offer unique features and capabilities.

Logitech MX Keys

Wireless Technology: The Logitech MX Keys employs both Bluetooth and Logitech’s Unifying Receiver for connectivity. This means you can connect it to your devices via Bluetooth or use the Unifying Receiver for a stable wireless connection.

Multi-Device Pairing: With the Logitech MX Keys, you can seamlessly pair and switch between up to three different devices. This feature is incredibly handy for users who frequently work with multiple devices and want the convenience of a single keyboard for all of them.

Compatibility: The MX Keys is highly compatible across a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. Whether you’re working on a computer, tablet, or smartphone, this keyboard has you covered.

Easy-Switch Dial: Logitech’s MX Keys features an Easy-Switch dial, which simplifies the process of toggling between connected devices. It’s a user-friendly feature that enhances multitasking efficiency.

Hand Proximity Detection: This keyboard also incorporates hand proximity detection, automatically illuminating the keys as your hands approach. This feature not only saves power but also improves usability in low-light environments.

Apple Magic Keyboard

Wireless Technology: The Apple Magic Keyboard relies solely on Bluetooth for its wireless connectivity. It seamlessly connects to your Apple devices without the need for cables.

Multi-Device Pairing: Similar to the Logitech MX Keys, the Apple Magic Keyboard supports multi-device pairing for up to three devices. This functionality allows for effortless switching between your Apple devices with a simple press of a button.

Compatibility: The primary focus of the Apple Magic Keyboard is compatibility with Apple products. It is designed to work seamlessly with Mac computers, iPads, and iPhones. While it can function with other Bluetooth-compatible devices, its design and features are optimized for the Apple ecosystem.

Easy-Switch Dial: Unlike the Logitech MX Keys, the Apple Magic Keyboard does not feature an Easy-Switch dial. It relies on standard Bluetooth pairing to connect to different devices.

Hand Proximity Detection: The Apple Magic Keyboard does not incorporate hand proximity detection or backlighting, which may affect its usability in dimly lit environments.

In summary, both the Logitech MX Keys and the Apple Magic Keyboard offer wireless versatility through Bluetooth connectivity and multi-device pairing capabilities. However, the Logitech MX Keys goes a step further by providing the option of a Unifying Receiver for additional wireless connectivity stability. Furthermore, the MX Keys boasts broader compatibility with various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android, making it a versatile choice for users across different platforms. On the other hand, the Apple Magic Keyboard is tailored for seamless integration with Apple devices, offering a straightforward and reliable wireless experience within the Apple ecosystem.

Bluetooth Connectivity: Both Perform Admirably

Both Logitech and Apple deliver reliable Bluetooth connectivity with their keyboards. Users should have no issues with either option, as both maintain stable connections without noticeable lag. The wireless connectivity offered by both keyboards is highly dependable, even during activities like gaming.

It’s worth noting that Logitech’s keyboard offers the option to use a USB-A Bluetooth receiver when connected to a Mac. However, this receiver is also USB-A, which may require a dongle for newer Macs with USB-C ports.

Typing Experience

When it comes to the typing experience, both the Logitech MX Keys for Mac and the Apple Magic Keyboard offer a satisfying typing experience with minimal lag. However, the Logitech keyboard gains an edge due to its superior ergonomics and design focus on creating the best possible typing experience. Logitech’s “Spherically dished keys” are designed to match the natural shape of fingertips, providing comfort and stability. This design choice makes a noticeable difference in the overall typing experience.

Both keyboards produce pleasant keypress sounds and feature full-size arrow keys, a notable improvement over the MacBook’s built-in miniaturized arrow keys. Additionally, the Logitech Options software allows users to customize key functions, making it a versatile choice for different tasks and applications.

Battery: Apple Holds an Advantage

In terms of battery life, Apple’s Magic Keyboard takes the lead, offering impressive longevity between charges. Apple claims that the Magic Keyboard can last about a month or more on a single charge. This extended battery life can be attributed to Apple’s efficient power management, although it’s worth noting that the Magic Keyboard lacks backlighting, which can consume additional power.

The Logitech MX Keys for Mac also boasts excellent battery life, thanks to its Bluetooth low-energy connectivity and proximity sensors. While Logitech estimates a battery life of up to ten days on a full charge or up to five months with backlighting turned off, real-world usage may vary. Nevertheless, the MX Keys’ battery life exceeds expectations and offers flexibility for users.

Charging: Logitech Offers More Compatibility

Charging options are an important consideration for users, and here, Logitech has an edge. The Logitech MX Keys for Mac uses a USB-C connection for charging, making it compatible with modern Macs that also use USB-C ports. This eliminates the need for additional dongles or adapters.

In contrast, the Apple Magic Keyboard uses a Lightning connection for charging and comes with a “Lightning-to-USB” cable, which typically means a USB-A connection. This design choice might require users to use a dongle to charge the keyboard from their Macs, especially if their Macs primarily feature USB-C ports. Logitech’s USB-C charging provides a more future-proof and user-friendly solution.

Keyboard Features Comparison

Let’s compare the key features of the Logitech MX Keys and the Apple Magic Keyboard:

FeaturesLogitech MX KeysApple Magic Keyboard
Connection TypeBluetooth or USB dongleBluetooth or Lightning Cable
Key TypeLow profile scissor switchesScissor mechanism
Backlit KeysYes, adjustable brightnessYes, adjustable brightness
Multi-Device SupportYes, up to three devicesYes, up to three devices
Battery LifeUp to 10 days on a single chargeUp to 1 month on a single charge
CompatibilityWindows, macOS, Linux, iOS, AndroidmacOS, iOS
Function KeysYes, including media and volume keysYes, including media and volume keys
Numeric KeypadYes, integratedNo
Touchpad / TrackpadNoNo

Logitech MX Keys

The Logitech MX Keys is a versatile wireless keyboard offering a wide array of features:

  • Wireless Connectivity: This keyboard connects seamlessly to your device through either Bluetooth or a USB receiver, providing you with the freedom to work without constraints.
  • Backlit Keys: The backlit keys ensure effortless typing even in low-light environments. Ambient light sensors automatically adjust the backlighting to suit the room’s lighting conditions.
  • Comfortable Typing: Experience a comfortable and responsive typing feel, complemented by a built-in palm rest for added comfort during extended use.
  • Multi-Device Support: The MX Keys can pair with up to three devices, allowing you to effortlessly switch between them with the touch of a button.
  • Easy-Switch: A dedicated “Easy-Switch” button simplifies device switching, making it a breeze to transition between your connected devices.
  • Battery Life: Enjoy a lengthy battery life of up to 10 days on a single charge. An intuitive battery indicator light keeps you informed about when it’s time to recharge.
  • Compatible with Multiple Platforms: This keyboard is compatible with various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, ensuring versatility in your setup.
  • Smart Illumination: The keyboard’s backlighting dynamically adjusts to match your surroundings, delivering an optimal contrast and brightness for comfortable typing.
  • Flow Compatible: Designed to work seamlessly with Logitech’s Flow software, the MX Keys enables control over multiple computers with a single keyboard.
  • Enhanced Productivity: Benefit from a host of productivity-enhancing features, including a numeric keypad, media keys, and customizable programmable keys.

Apple Magic Keyboard

The Apple Magic Keyboard, created by Apple Inc., boasts the following features:

  • Compact Design: With its slim and compact design, the Magic Keyboard conserves desk space and offers portability.
  • Wireless Connectivity: Utilizing Bluetooth technology, this keyboard connects wirelessly to your computer, eliminating the need for cords or cables.
  • Rechargeable Battery: A built-in rechargeable battery provides impressive battery life, lasting up to a month on a single charge.
  • Enhanced Keys: The Magic Keyboard incorporates an advanced scissor mechanism for responsive and comfortable typing.
  • Multi-Device Support: Pair the keyboard with various devices, including Mac, iPad, or iPhone, and effortlessly switch between them.
  • Shortcut Keys: Special function keys, such as volume adjustment and screen brightness control, enhance your convenience. Siri can also be activated with a dedicated key.
  • Numeric Keypad: Certain versions of the Magic Keyboard include a numeric keypad, simplifying data entry tasks.
  • Backlit Keys: Backlit keys automatically adapt to your environment’s lighting conditions, facilitating typing in low-light settings.

In summary, both keyboards offer unique advantages tailored to specific needs and preferences, ensuring a satisfying user experience for a wide range of users.

Software

Logitech MX Keys Software

When it comes to software capabilities, the Logitech MX Keys takes the lead, offering users the ability to maximize the keyboard’s functionality. With Logitech’s integrated software, you can easily reprogram the media keys, customizing their functions to suit your specific needs. Unfortunately, the Apple Magic Keyboard lacks such software enhancements, leaving users with limited customization options. In the realm of software versatility, the Logitech MX Keys clearly outshines the Apple Magic Keyboard.

Price and Value

Let’s talk about the price and value proposition when comparing the Logitech MX Keys for Mac and the Apple Magic Keyboard. Currently, the Logitech MX Keys for Mac is priced at $99.99, while the Apple Magic Keyboard with the Numerical Keypad commands a heftier price tag of $129.99—a $30 premium for the Apple brand. But is that extra cost justified?

Apple also offers a version of its wireless keyboard without the numerical keypad, and it’s priced at $99.99. However, when you compare it to the Logitech MX Keys for Mac, which includes a number pad, it becomes clear that you’re getting more functionality for the same price.

If workspace dimensions are a concern for you, there’s not a substantial difference in terms of horizontal specs between the two keyboards. The Magic Keyboard measures 16.48 inches (41.87 cm) in width, while the MX Keys spans 16.94 inches (43.02 cm).

It’s worth noting that Apple no longer offers the Space Gray variant of its wireless keyboard—a decision that may leave you scratching your head.

Overall, the typing experience and tactile feedback on the Logitech MX Keys for Mac are noticeably more comfortable and precise.

Despite their similar widths, these keyboards differ in height, depth, slope, and design. The Logitech version stands out with its spherically-shaped and matte-finished keys, providing a sense of precision and comfort during typing sessions.

One significant factor that swayed me towards the Logitech MX Keys for Mac was the inclusion of backlighting. It struck me as odd that the pricier Apple Magic Keyboard lacked this feature, while the MX Keys for Mac offered it.

On paper, I wrestled with the choice between these two keyboards for a while. However, after purchasing and using both, the distinctions between them became apparent, leading me to wholeheartedly choose Logitech.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions and answers regarding the Logitech MX Keys for Mac and the Apple Magic Keyboard:

  • Compatibility with Windows 10: The Logitech MX Keys for Mac is compatible with Windows 10, making it versatile for users who switch between Mac and Windows systems. While the key functions are optimized for Mac, it can still function effectively on a Windows system.
  • Backlighting Settings: Both keyboards offer adjustable backlighting settings, allowing users to customize the brightness to their liking. The automatic lighting feature adapts to changing lighting conditions, enhancing usability.
  • FN Lock: Both keyboards feature an FN Lock function. By pressing the FN key along with the ESC key on the Logitech MX Keys for Mac, users can activate the FN Lock.
  • Delete Key Function: The larger delete key on the Logitech MX Keys for Mac functions like a backspace key on Windows. The smaller delete key above the arrow keys with a forward icon functions as a forward-delete key.

Customer Mentions

For Logitech MX Keys for Mac

Customers who purchased the Logitech MX Keys for Mac frequently praised its ease of use with Macs, comfortable typing experience, backlighting, and overall build quality. The keyboard’s battery life, low profile, inclusion of a number pad, and high recommendations were also highlighted.

Negative feedback for the Logitech keyboard was minimal, with some users mentioning the weight as a personal preference. However, most users did not find the weight to be problematic, and it added to the keyboard’s stability.

For Apple Magic Keyboard

Customers who reviewed the Apple Magic Keyboard often commended its exceptional battery life. Many users appreciated that Apple finally released a wireless keyboard with a full FN row and a numerical keypad.

In terms of drawbacks, users noted the absence of backlighting, lack of adjustable feet for changing the keyboard’s height and slope, and a desire for more key “travel” when typing.

It’s worth mentioning that a small number of reviewers reported occasional delay or lag with the Logitech MX Keys for Mac. However, these issues were not widespread and might be related to specific computer configurations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Logitech MX Keys for Mac and the Apple Magic Keyboard are excellent wireless keyboards, each with its own set of advantages. However, the Logitech MX Keys for Mac offers more value at a lower price point, making it a compelling choice for Mac users.

While the Apple Magic Keyboard is a solid option, the Logitech MX Keys for Mac outshines it with better ergonomics, backlighting, and a more comfortable typing experience. If you own a Mac, opting for the “for Mac” version of the Logitech keyboard is recommended for the best compatibility and features.

In summary, the Logitech MX Keys for Mac has proven to be an exceptional keyboard, and once you experience its superior design and functionality, you may find it difficult to go back to the Apple Magic Keyboard.

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