Logitech MX Keys S Review

For most office users, yes. Based on feature analysis, the MX Keys S offers a refined low-profile typing feel, the smart backlight extends battery life (10 days per charge), and Flow cross-computer control is a game-changer for multi-machine setups. The only reason to skip it is if you specifically want mechanical switches — in that case, see our Keychron K8 review.

Neither — it uses scissor switches, the same mechanism as laptop keyboards and the Apple Magic Keyboard. This gives it a low-profile feel with shorter travel (1.8 mm) than mechanical keyboards (4 mm). It is quieter than mechanical keyboards and preferred by many office users who find mechanical keyboards too tall or too loud.

Flow lets you control two computers with a single keyboard and mouse, even switching the cursor between screens by moving it off the edge of one display onto the other. You can copy text on one computer and paste it on the other. It works on Windows and macOS, requires Logitech Options+ software on both machines, and needs both computers on the same network.

The MX Keys S is the 2023 successor to the original MX Keys. Key upgrades: a quieter typing mechanism (29% reduction in typing noise), a sensor-based smart backlight that turns on when your hands approach, and improved battery life (10 days versus 5 days on the original). If you have the original MX Keys, the upgrade is not necessary — but for new buyers, always get the S.

Yes. The keyboard includes dual-printed keycaps with both Mac and Windows layouts, and the Logitech Options+ software lets you remap any key. According to manufacturer specifications, it is compatible with macOS, Windows, iPadOS, and Android. The Fn row works correctly on both Mac and Windows, including media controls and screen brightness.

Yes — based on feature analysis, the scissor-switch mechanism produces a soft, dampened sound rather than the clack of mechanical switches, making it suitable for shared offices or video calls. The low-profile design contributes to quieter operation than mechanical alternatives.

With the smart backlight enabled, the battery lasts up to 10 days per charge according to Logitech's specifications. With the backlight permanently on, it lasts about 5 days. With the backlight off entirely, it can run up to 15 days. The smart backlight is the best setting — proximity detection means the backlight only comes on when your hands are near, giving you the visibility of always-on backlight with the battery life of always-off backlight.

No. The keycaps are integrated into the Perfect Stroke scissor mechanism and cannot be removed or replaced individually. This is a tradeoff of the low-profile design — you cannot customize keycaps the way you can on a mechanical keyboard like the Keychron K8. If keycap customization is important, look at mechanical keyboards in our office mechanical keyboard roundup.

Yes. The MX Keys S has a white backlight with smart proximity detection — it turns on when your hands approach and off when you move away. Brightness adjusts automatically to ambient light. There is no per-key RGB lighting, only white. The smart backlight is one of the standout features because it extends battery life to 10 days per charge.

Yes. The MX Keys S pairs with up to three devices simultaneously via Bluetooth or the Logi Bolt receiver, and you switch between them with dedicated Easy-Switch buttons in the top right of the keyboard. According to Logitech's documentation, switching between devices is designed to be quick with no perceptible delay when typing resumes.

Yes. Based on feature analysis, the low actuation force (45 g) and short travel (1.8 mm) reduce finger fatigue during long coding sessions, and the quiet operation is appreciated in pair-programming and stand-up settings. The dished keycaps make it easy to find modifier keys by touch. The main limitation is no QMK/VIA programmable firmware — you can remap keys via Logi Options+, but not at the hardware level.

Yes. The MX Keys S pairs with any iPad that supports Bluetooth, including iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad mini. Pairing takes under a minute, and the keyboard remembers the iPad as one of its three device slots. The Fn row media controls work with iPadOS, and you can use keyboard shortcuts like Cmd+Tab and Cmd+Space. For a dedicated iPad keyboard, see our best office mechanical keyboard guide for alternatives.

The MX Keys S works as a standard Bluetooth or USB-C keyboard on Linux without Logi Options+ software. Basic typing, the Fn row, and media controls all work. Advanced features like Flow, key remapping, and per-app shortcuts require Logi Options+, which does not officially support Linux. Community tools like Solaar can unlock some of these features, but support is partial.

It is acceptable for casual gaming but not ideal for competitive play. Typing latency with the Logi Bolt receiver is under 5 ms, which is fine for typing and most games, but the 1.8 mm scissor switches do not offer the same n-key rollover or tactile feedback as mechanical gaming keyboards. For serious gaming, see our best mechanical keyboard for work roundup, which includes gaming-capable options.