10/14/2019 Best Logitech Keyboard For Mac
Keyboards are important — so important that many people won’t “work” on their iPads without real keys to type on. No one complained when desktop mice gave way to laptop trackpads, or when trackpads evolved into tablet touchscreens, but the switch from physical to virtual keyboards has been met with plenty of resistance specifically because virtual keyboards offer no resistance. There’s something about the responsive, up and down movement of actual keys, known as “travel,” that people clearly prefer over tapping on completely flat glass.
I’ve tested a lot of keyboards, and since I rely upon them professionally every day, I have some strong opinions as to the best options for different types of Mac and iPad users. You might be surprised by my advice, as it bucks a couple of Apple’s trends (“smaller!” “thinner!”), but if you’re like me, you’ll be a much happier typist if you “think different” on this topic than the folks in Cupertino Are You Better Off With A Wired Or Wireless Keyboard?
Best Wireless Keyboard For Mac Logitech Wireless solar keyboard K750 for Mac. If you like wireless keyboards, you will love this keyboard! Rely on the light instead of the batteries, because any light source will keep this keyboard charged. It delivers an enjoyable typing experience –.
Over the past five years, wireless keyboards have become the default choice for both Mac and iPad users. Apple’s 2010-vintage never took off, while third-party iPad Bluetooth keyboards flourished. On the Mac side, Apple made its $69 Bluetooth-based the standard pack-in for iMacs in late 2009, bringing its desktop computers and MacBook laptops into harmony with nearly identical designs. As you can see above, the Wireless and MacBook keyboards are so similar (except for key color) that you can move from one to the other without any effort. Whether you’re using an iPad or a Mac, the Apple Wireless Keyboard is a great keyboard. But it does have one major issue, which is particularly annoying if you’re using it all day long with your work computer. That’s battery life.
The current version of the Wireless Keyboard requires two AA batteries, down from three in the original model. But even if you’re using the official with Apple-branded rechargeable batteries, you can expect to see the “Keyboard Batteries Low” warning pop up on your screen often, becoming even more frequent as the batteries age. No third-party solution (including Mobee’s well-intentioned and ) truly fixes this problem; the best workaround I’ve found is Mobee’s (shown below), which lets you permanently connect a micro-USB cable to the Wireless Keyboard for power. It’s not ideal, but it worked for me for a while. My first piece of advice is to seriously consider how you plan to use your Mac’s or iPad’s keyboard.
If it’s going to be sitting on the same desk all the time, and used with the same Apple device — particularly a Mac — you may well be better off with a wired keyboard that doesn’t require batteries and doesn’t compromise your typing comfort in any way. But if you plan to move your keyboard around a lot, or really hate having a wire connected to your Mac or iPad, a portable wireless keyboard will probably be a better option for you. Both types of keyboards are discussed below. Wired Mac Keyboards The Mac keyboard I personally use is something different: (above), which can currently be had for. Made from a solid piece of aluminum with plastic keys, it’s obviously wider than the Wireless Keyboard, but not as deep, and uses USB 2.0 rather than Bluetooth to connect to your Mac.
The main keys are in the same places as the Wireless Keyboard’s, but the wired version gives the arrow keys more breathing room while adding dedicated page up, page down, and other buttons, most notably a full numeric keypad. While I personally don’t use the extra keys all that often, the keypad is handy during tax season and for using the Mac’s Calculator app.
The Wired Keyboard with Numeric Keypad is the only USB keyboard Apple currently makes. In 2009, it briefly introduced a version without the numeric keypad that was alternately called the or the (shown above). But it was oddly discontinued very quickly, disappearing from Apple’s lineup in late 2010, and is now only available online at a fairly steep premium.
Apple’s Wired Keyboards hide a useful feature underneath their keys: twin USB ports. There’s one on each side, and they can be used to connect certain USB accessories as needed. Unfortunately, the ports don’t work properly with iPhones or iPads, which really should be plugged directly into your Mac for charging. It’s been years since I’ve relied upon keyboard-mounted USB ports for anything, but Apple’s wired keyboards have included them for wired mice, flash drives, and other low-power peripherals.
This is how Apple previously implemented USB ports in its, which weighed around 2 pounds on its own. The company hasn’t sold a typing surface anywhere near as large or as heavy as this in many years, and is currently testing an even thinner keyboard with noticeably less key travel in the. Notice how tall the old keys used to be compared with the current ones. They used to be noisier and extremely tactile, responding with audible “plunk” sounds as you pressed them. There are options for users who still prefer big keybards with the deep, clicky keys of yesteryear.
About Das Keyboards for Macs, which use keys designed to survive 50 million key strokes. The ($123-$137) includes German-engineered mechanical key switches in your choice of colors (yes, seriously), with laser key etching so the letters resist fading, and a two-port USB 2.0 hub is built in. An even-more premium version called ($170-$173) also uses the fancy mechanical key switches, upping the ante with a two-port USB 3.0 hub, a large volume knob, and dedicated media control buttons. “Clicky” and “soft tactile” typing experiences are options. Add-On Numeric Keypads If you want a part-time numeric keyboard, Newer Technology now sells a $55 (left) that perfectly matches the look of Apple’s Wireless Keyboard in white, with a black version (center) that matches MacBook keyboards instead. Alternately, has an for $20 (right) if you want a wired solution that is a pretty close but not quite perfect match for Apple’s keyboards, at a lower price. Wireless Keyboards for Mac and iPad Although the aforementioned is the easiest Bluetooth option to recommend to Mac and iPad users, it’s not the best.
That honor belongs to, which addresses every one of the Apple keyboard’s issues. Battery drain isn’t a problem, because it has a rechargeable battery inside, and can be refueled while you type using an included micro-USB cable. The keys are backlit like the ones in MacBook laptops, so you can see them in the dark.
They’re also extremely comfortable to type on, despite the fact that K811 is thinner and easier to pack up for portable use than the Apple Wireless Keyboard. The killer feature can be seen above on the F1/F2/F3 keys.
K811 can be paired with three separate devices, such as your Mac, iPad, and Apple TV, with buttons that let you switch between them in one or two seconds. This feature works incredibly well, and the keyboard’s function keys have features that are useful across multiple Apple devices. While K811 isn’t cheap — it has a — its aluminum top makes it feel like an Apple product, and its great collection of features makes it worth serious consideration for Mac and iPad users alike. Contrast the K811 against the iPad mini-specific and iPad Air-specific keyboards shown to the left in this picture; you can get a sense of how cramped wireless keyboards become when developers narrow them to match the width of Apple’s tablets. I have never tested an iPad mini-sized keyboard that feels good enough to recommend over an Apple Wireless Keyboard, so my recommendation for mini users is simple: get a separate wireless keyboard such as one of the options mentioned above. Similarly, only the very best of the iPad Air-sized keyboards are just wide enough to provide a typing experience on par with Apple’s keyboards.
(shown at left above, ) is a great budget-priced option for only $40, primarily because it is actually a little wider than the iPad it holds, and doesn’t cramp its keyboard to achieve unnecessary thinness. There are many other options for iPads, such as the boxy jet black keyboard above, which is found inside the $50. But the compromise is almost always the same: finger comfort — sometimes also missing keys — in order to achieve a smaller size. A conspicuous recent lull in new third-party keyboards for iPads suggests that Apple and third-party developers are working on something new for release later this year.
For now, the safest iPad model-agnostic alternative is to pair a with either Apple’s or Logitech’s keyboard, giving you the benefit of an excellent keyboard whenever you need it, and a thin, well-protected iPad the rest of the time. Wired Keyboards for iPad The most obscure of all keyboards is the iPad wired keyboard, a near-mythological beast that shuns Bluetooth and USB in favor of Apple’s proprietary Lightning connector.
Apple gave up on making wired keyboards for the iPad after releasing the (above) in 2010. It wasn’t popular, perhaps because the rigid plastic dock in the back made it awkward to carry around; subsequent wired keyboards haven’t attempted to include integrated docks. Today, Belkin sells a sub-$60 option (above) called the, which is very similar in price and features to not particularly popular Lightning keyboards from. All of these keyboards are plasticky, not particularly compact, and no bargain compared with even well-made wireless alternatives. But if you can’t use Bluetooth for some reason, need a keyboard that doesn’t transmit whatever you’re typing wirelessly, and don’t want to worry about swapping or recharging keyboard batteries, these are options. I’ve never actually seen anyone else using one of them, but having tested a bunch, I can confirm that they do exist and work as expected. Even More Great Options Read more of my (and don’t forget to click on Older Posts at the bottom of the page to see everything)!
Author, lawyer, and award-winning restaurateur Jeremy Horwitz started his journalism career in the early 1990’s, covering video games as a freelancer for numerous publications before creating and running Ziff Davis’s Intelligent Gamer magazine. A graduate of Cornell Law School, he previously ran editorial for the Apple-centric site iLounge and created the historic iLounge Pavilion at CES before joining 9to5Mac and 9to5Toys as a Senior Editor. A lifelong consumer electronics expert and gourmet, he now focuses on the changing ways people work, play, eat, and travel. His Spanish restaurant Aro Bar de Tapas won Best New Restaurant (Opened 2015-2016), Best Charcuterie, Best Craft Cocktails, and Best Desserts awards.
Preview Product Things to consider when Choosing the Best Wireless Keyboard There are a few main points that you need to consider when looking at buying a wireless keyboard. What will you be using the keyboard for? Are you hoping to discover the to go with your ultimate setup?
Are you seeking a or just a to make your computing life much more convenient? How would you like your wireless keyboard to connect to other devices? What kind of batteries will it need and how long will it last before needing a charge or replacement? Here are a few things to think about when choosing a suitable wireless keyboard worth your investment: Using Your Wireless Keyboard The keyboard you choose should be determined by the activities you intend to use the keyboard for. If you’re a gamer with a higher budget, then you may want to look for the best wireless mechanical gaming keyboard that matches your gaming style. Alternatively, a may also be a good starting point.
Do you need to find the best wireless keyboard for your office or work computer at home? A Bluetooth keyboard may be more practical for you because they can usually pair themselves with a variety of devices, such as laptops, tablets and phones. Are you a music or video enthusiast?
A media center PC may require a radio frequency (RF) keyboard that uses a USB dongle, which generally has a better range than Bluetooth. You may also consider a wireless keyboard with an inbuilt touchpad for added convenience. No matter what your peripheral needs may be, investing in the best wireless keyboard for your lifestyle is a great first step down the road of wireless technology.
Wireless Keyboard Connectivity There are two common ways that wireless keyboards will connect to a device; RF and Bluetooth. Both are easily obtainable in today’s market and are not as expensive as they once were. For this reason, there are plenty of RF and Bluetooth wireless keyboard options to choose from. A RF keyboard connects to your computer via a dongle which plugs into a USB port. It then “talks” to the keyboard using a 2.4GHz frequency to find out which keys you are pressing and then relays the action to your computer.
Bluetooth technology is very similar; however, the receiver that it uses is normally already built into your device. This means it won’t take up a USB port on your computer.
Bluetooth is also widely used in devices such as tablets and mobile phones. For this reason, people may use Bluetooth wireless keyboards for work so they can control multiple devices at a time. Wireless Keyboard Battery The majority of wireless keyboards require batteries to keep them powered through extended periods of use.
The typical types of batteries they use include alkaline batteries, AA, AAA or the newer technology of rechargeable Lithium-Ion (also commonly found in smartphones). If you’re a PC gamer or someone who uses a computer on a regular basis, is one of the most prominent components to consider when purchasing any piece of wireless technology. Alkaline batteries tend to last longer than the lithium batteries; however, they may end up costing more for you in the long run as replacements are needed.
If your device runs out of juice and you don’t have any spare, you may be out of luck until you can get more batteries – this would be a grievous situation for gamers! Lithium-ion batteries, on the other hand, have the advantage of chargeability. This normally occurs through a USB port. While you’ll have to take up a USB port space to charge your device, this will only be temporary for as long as the keyboard needs to charge (this means you can have it charging during downtime while you’re away from your devices). If you’re looking for a wireless gaming keyboard, lithium-ion is usually the way to go as they are generally more suitable for longer gaming sessions (if the charge starts to get low, you can quickly plug it in and keep your head in the game). 10 Best Wireless Keyboards 2018 Logitech K780 The Best Logitech Wireless Keyboard with Multi-Device Versatility The Logitech K780 works across multiple devices and you can also use it with compatible Logitech products between different computers. It’s a great option if you work with a lot of devices; it even has an integrated stand for your phone or tablet.
Specs. Connectivity: Bluetooth. Battery: 2 AAA.
Battery Life: 2 Years Pros:. Very long battery life. Full sized keyboard. A stand for tablet and phone Cons:. Heavy.
May have response issues. Round keys can take some getting used to HP K3500 Wireless Keyboard The Best Wireless Keyboard with a Lightweight Design The HP K300 is a very affordable wireless keyboard from HP that can connect to 5 Link-5 HP devices at one time. It also has a sleek, modern design and a built-in number pad. Specs.
Connectivity: RF via USB receiver. Battery: 2 AA. Battery Life: Approx. 1.5 Years Pros:. Sleek and simple design.
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Lightweight, great for travelling. Large amount of hotkeys Cons:. Unable to use with anything other than Windows PCs. Difficult to replace batteries. No caps or number lock indication Azio Vision Good Wireless Keyboard with Blue Backlighting The Azio Vision is a unique wireless keyboard that includes blue backlighting with adjustable brightness. It also has several important hotkeys and a rechargeable battery for added practicality. Specs.
Connectivity: RF via USB receiver. Battery: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion. Battery Life: 2 Weeks Pros:. Large print keys.
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Blue backlighting. Large amount of hotkeys Cons:. Poor battery life. Heavy.
Takes up a lot of desk space Microsoft Surface Keyboard The Best Microsoft Wireless Keyboard with a Sleek Design The Microsoft Surface Keyboard is a stylish wireless keyboard that will look slim and clean on your desk. This keyboard is also designed with “optimized feedback” to help improve your typing efficiency. Specs.
Connectivity: Bluetooth. Battery: 2 AAA. Battery Life: 1 Year Pros:. Sleek and stylish design. Long range.
Full sized keyboard Cons:. Expensive.
Not good for limited desk space. Fingerprints show up very easily on keys Arteck HB030B The Best Bluetooth Keyboard with Backlighting The Arteck HB030B is an excellent quality wireless keyboard that comes with seven color options for LED backlighting so you never have to type or game in darkness.
It’s also very affordable and lightweight, making it a great option for frequent travelers. Specs. Connectivity: Bluetooth. Battery: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion. Battery Life: 6 months Pros:. 7 different backlit colors.
Very light keyboard. Works with any device that has Bluetooth Cons:. No non-slip feet on the bottom. Long wake up time. Not as sturdy as other keyboards Rii Mini i28 Great Mini Wireless Keyboard with an Ergonomic Design The RII Mini i28 stands out among the rest based on its ergonomic shape, multi-functional features and large media buttons. It’s also rechargeable and has qwerty backlighting for easier operation in the dark.
Specs. Connectivity: RF via USB receiver. Battery: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion. Battery Life: Varies for use Pros:. Backlight features. Voice capabilities. Small enough to fit in your hands Cons:.
May be difficult to type given size. Battery life may be poor when using voice capabilities with programs such as Skype.
Poor range Apple Magic Keyboard The Best Wireless Keyboard for Mac Users The Apple Magic Keyboard features the iconic style that Apple users love and will automatically pair with your Mac computer. This keyboard is also constructed with a low profile to make your computing experience more comfortable and precise. Specs.
Connectivity: Bluetooth. Battery: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion. Battery Life: One Month Pros:. Able to plug in and use as a wired keyboard. Sleek and lightweight design. Low profile can help with typing precision and speed Cons:. Expensive.
Up and down keys are half size and easy to miss or wrongly press. Keys are smaller than full sized keys Rii RK901 The Best Budget Wireless Keyboard The Rii RK901 comes in at a very low price point without sacrificing quality and function. It’s designed with low profile keys and can be operated up to 30 feet away from the connected device. Specs.
Connectivity: RF via USB receiver. Battery: 1 AAA. Battery Life: Unknown Pros:. Slim design.
Inexpensive. Quiet keys Cons:. No battery indicator. No on/off switch or place to put the USB receiver. Caps, Number and Scroll Lock indicators do not work frequently Logitech Wireless Touch Keyboard K400 Plus The Best Wireless Keyboard with Touchpad The Logitech Wireless Touch Keyboard K400 comes with an integrated touchpad, making it a great option if you want to save space by not using a mouse. It’s also comfortable to type with and has a 33 foot wireless range.
Specs. Connectivity: RF via USB receiver. Battery: 2 AA. Battery Life: 18 months Pros:. Trackpad. Media hotkeys. Quiet keys Cons:.
Directional keys are in way of normal key placement. Trackpad may be difficult to use. Not a full sized keyboard Anker Ultra Compact Wireless Keyboard Small and Lightweight Wireless Keyboard Compact design will take up much less space in your work area and makes it easy to carry during travel.
The rechargeable lithium battery has the capacity to stay charged for up to 6 months. Can be used with Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows. Specs. Connectivity: Bluetooth.
Battery: Rechargeable lithium battery. Battery Life: 6 months Pros:. Very long battery life.
Easy to connect with basic knowledge of computers. Small and light, a good size for comfortable use Cons:. Has a slight lag, delaying the letters before they appear on screen.
Difficult for users with large hands to operate Choose the Best Wireless Keyboard for Portability, Function and Comfort There’s plenty of reasons to go wireless. Maybe you’re tired of the annoying cords all over your desk or you’d like your devices to be more portable and versatile. Whether you need wireless keyboard for gaming, mini wireless keyboard or budget wireless keyboard that will get the job done, there’s a keyboard out there for everyone. If you’re looking for the best wireless keyboard for gaming that’s easy and comfortable to use, consider the Logitech K400 Plus or the Apple Magic Keyboard. If you love backlighting options, choose the Arteck HB030B. If you need the best budget wireless keyboard that still has plenty of features, the Rii RK901 is a great choice. Investing in wireless keyboard that matches your lifestyle is a great way to save space and time while enhancing your computer productivity.
Ultimately, finding the best wireless keyboard means having more freedom to use your keyboard where and how you want. DISCLAIMER: TheTechLounge generates revenue through a number of affiliate relationships including but not limited to Amazon and Walmart. All names, logos, brands and images are trademarks or copyrighted materials of their respective owners. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. Or its affiliates.
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