Three decades ago, when I switched from a Windows PC to a Mac, I tried buying a replacement keyboard for my new computer. Back then, it was almost impossible to find any kind of Mac accessories, especially a keyboard with Mac modifier keys.
Fortunately, that’s all changed thanks to the growing popularity of Macs. These days, you can find loads of peripherals and accessories made for Apple. For example, Logitech has just announced a revamp of its range of keyboards and mice designed exclusively for Mac users.
Today, Logitech is unveiling a new lineup of Logi-branded peripherals designed exclusively for Macs. The new devices have exclusively Mac functions and they are manufactured sustainably.
The new lineup includes MX Keys S for Mac, MX Keys S Combo for Mac, MX Anywhere 3S for Mac, MX Keys Mini for Mac (now in Space Gray), and a brand-new ergonomic keyboard for Apple users who find regular keyboards a pain in the neck.
All the new mice and keyboard models have been designed to improve a Mac user’s productivity and comfort when working away at a desk. All the products can cater to devices running macOS or iPadOS. The keyboards also have dedicated layouts for macOS and are available in colors that complement Apple Macs.
The Logi MX Keys S for Mac is a full-sized keyboard featuring a numeric keypad and a full row of function/media keys. The keys have a sculpted profile and promote a comfortable typing action. The keycaps all have an updated Mac layout and LED backlights. The Logi MX Keys S can also be programmed with time-saving Smart Actions using the Logi Options+ app. This is the keyboard Apple should be making. It has everything the Apple Magic Keyboard doesn’t have. For those who want a low-profile and non-mechanical keyboard, the MX Keys S for Mac is as good as it gets.
For people who want a complete office solution, Logitech is also selling its MX Keys S Combo for Mac. This bundle includes the Logi MX Keys S for Mac keyboard and the MX Master 3S ergonomic mouse for Mac, plus the MX Palm Rest. The Combo product is available in Pale Grey or Space Grey. The Combo is the ultimate office solution and worth every penny. The battery life is awesome and is something Logitech has worked on over the years in a way that few other keyboard and mouse makers have.
Also announced at today’s launch is the latest version of Logitech’s MX Anywhere 3S for Mac mouse. This compact rodent snuggles nicely in the palm and offers ultra-fast scrolling with whisper-quiet clicks. The sensor in the mouse has fast and precise 8K resolution enabling tracking on any surface, even glass.
This small mouse is a dream for scrolling through web pages and documents thanks to the MagScroll wheel. The keys are exceptionally quiet and as well as connecting with up to three different devices with Bluetooth, the Logitech’s MX Anywhere 3S for Mac can also work with Logitech’s Bolt receiver technology, although the Mac range doesn’t ship with a Bolt dongle.
The Logi MX Keys Mini for Mac is a compact version of the full-sized keyboard which is ideal for those of us with reduced desk space. The keyboard is optimized for macOS and available in Space Gray. The key action is identical to the larger MX Keys S keyboard with the same shape of keys and the full row of Function and Media keys.
With its precise typing and smart illumination, the MX Keys Mini for Mac is a genuine joy to type on. I have one of the previous models and it is so easy to type on, I often pull it out if I have a very long article to write as it’s so relaxing to use and easy on the wrists. The battery life in all the MX products is exceptionally good, especially with rechargeable batteries.
Like the other Logi keyboards and mice being announced today, the MX Keys Mini can be customized and programmed with the excellent Logi Options+ software which can assign specific functions to keys depending on the software package being used.
The last product announced today is the Logi Ergo Wave Keys for Mac. This is Logitech’s first ergonomic keyboard for Macs and features an integrated palm rest with a soft cushion. The Ergo Wave Keys is available in Off White and has been developed at the Logi Ergo Lab. If you are one of those people who finds regular keyboards a pain in the neck, then the Ergo Wave Keys for Mac could be the answer.
If you do decide to switch to the Ergo Wave, be prepared to spend a few days relearning how to type because of the new layout. It does take a little getting used to and then it’s not so easy to switch back to regular keyboards, but if you are one of those people who suffers from RSI or wrist pain, it is worth trying out and is affordable.
When it comes to sustainability, Logitech is a company that genuinely walks the talk. The company has made massive strides in recent years with each new generation of its keyboard and mice having a lower carbon footprint than the previous one.
Users can now have Logitech devices designed in alignment with Sustainable Design (DfS) principles. This means they are made with alternative materials like Next Life recycled plastic instead of virgin plastic. The use of more sustainable materials should enhance circularity and reduce a product’s overall carbon footprint.
The plastic used in the newer products in the Logi for Mac portfolio include up to 78% Next Life plastic. The MX Series has now fully transitioned to post-consumer recycled plastics. Logitech has reduced the carbon footprint of its MX Keys S for Mac by 11% over the previous version, resulting in 192t CO2e avoided carbon per 100,000 units, which Logitech claims is enough to journey around the earth 20 times.
Pricing & Availability: MX Keys S for Mac is priced at $109.99 / £109.99 / €119.99., while the MX Keys S Combo for Mac will retail at $199.99 / £199.99 / €219.99. The MX Anywhere 3S for Mac is priced at $79.99 / £89.99 / €99.99, while the MX Keys Mini for Mac will set you back $99.99 / £109.99 / €119.99. Finally, Ergo Wave Keys for Mac sells for $59.99 / £69.99 / €79.99. All the products will be available globally in May 2024 via www.logitech.com or other retailers.