The Logitech K380 Keyboard: Why We Love It

People frequently use many devices, such as a laptop, a phone, and possibly a tablet, which is why Logitech continues to release “multidevice” Bluetooth keyboards. The K380, which I’m typing on, costs $40, £35, or AU$70 and is one of Logitech’s best tiny full-size wireless keyboards to date.

The first thing you notice about it is its weight — it weighs 14.92 ounces (423 g) with batteries — which makes it ideal for use with a desktop computer while remaining light and compact enough to slip into a bag and take with you on the move. The height is 4.9 inches (124 mm), the width is 10.9 inches (279 mm), and the depth is 0.6 inches (16 mm) (including feet). It comes in two colors: dark gray and blue, which I like.

You can pair it with three different devices and swap between them by pressing one of the numbered “Easy-Switch” buttons in the top left corner of the keyboard. With my test devices, which included an iPhone 5S, iPhone 6, Samsung Galaxy S6, iPad Air, MacBook Air, Dell laptop, and an Asus Chromebook, pairing went easily.
The keyboard can recognize Mac and Windows computers, as well as Android and iOS devices, and map keys to compatible functions and shortcuts. It’s also compatible with Chrome OS and Apple TV devices.
The keys have a nice feel to them, and they’re spread out enough to prevent mistypes. Some people dislike round keys (as opposed to square keys), but I didn’t mind them at all. The keys may be tight for individuals with very large hands, but those with average-sized and smaller hands should feel at ease typing on the keyboard.

My only little quibble was that I occasionally pressed the caps lock key by mistake. It’s close to the “a” key, and if your finger slips off the “a” key (to the left), you might accidentally touch the Caps Lock. And you don’t always realize you’ve done it until you’ve typed a few letters.
Aside from multidevice compatibility, the K380’s main selling point is that Logitech claims the two supplied AAA batteries will last for two years. I’m not sure how much of that is based on, but even if it only did half of that, it would be useful.
The $50 K480 multidevice Bluetooth keyboard is also made by Logitech. That model is much larger and contains a built-in slot for holding phones and tablets. However, I like the K380 described here because most of the tablets I use have cases that convert to stands, so I don’t need the slot. I also prefer typing on the smaller K380 since the keys are quieter and have a smoother motion. Simply put, it’s a better keyboard.
Logitech’s Keys-To-Go, a superslim keyboard, and Microsoft’s Universal Foldable Keyboard, which folds in half and is even more tiny, are two more portable multi-device keyboard possibilities. Both of those devices are more pricey, but they’re good options if you’re searching for a portable keyboard. Their keys are flatter and less comfortable to type on.

Compare Logitech Keyboards

Conclusion

This is a true desktop replacement keyboard, and I’d choose it over Apple’s $69 Wireless Keyboard, which is built just for Macs.

8

Editor’s Choice

Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard