Three decades ago, when I switched from a Windows PC to a Mac, I tried to buy a replacement keyboard for my new computer. Back then, it was almost impossible to find any kind of Mac accessory, especially a keyboard with Mac modifier keys.
Fortunately, all that has changed thanks to the growing popularity of Macs. These days, you can find many peripherals and accessories designed 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 line of Logi-branded peripherals designed exclusively for the Mac. The new devices have exclusive Mac functions and they are manufactured in a stable manner.
The new line 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 neck pain.
All new mouse and keyboard models are designed to improve a Mac user’s productivity and comfort when working away from a desk. All products can cater to devices running macOS or iPadOS. The keyboards also have dedicated macOS layouts and are available in colors that complement the Apple Mac.
Logi MX Keys S for Mac is a full-sized keyboard that features a numeric keypad and a full row of function/media keys. The keys have a sculpted profile and promote a comfortable typing action. All keycaps have an updated Mac layout and LED backlighting. Logi MX Keys S can also be programmed with time-saving smart actions using the Logi Options+ app. This is the keyboard Apple should make. It has everything that the Magic Apple keyboard doesn’t. For those who want a low-profile, 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 the MX Keys S Combo for Mac. This bundle includes the Logi MX Keys S keyboard for Mac and the MX Master 3S ergonomic mouse for Mac, plus the MX Palm Rest. The Combo product is available in pale gray or space gray. Combo is the ultimate office solution and worth every penny. Battery life is great, and it’s something that Logitech has worked on over the years in a way that few other keyboard and mouse manufacturers 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 of your hand and offers ultra-fast movement with whisper-quiet clicks. The sensor in the mouse has a fast and precise 8K resolution that enables tracking on any surface, even glass.
This little mouse is a dream to scroll through web pages and documents thanks to the MagScroll wheel. The switches are extremely quiet and as well as connecting to up to three different Bluetooth devices, 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-size 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 key shape and full row of Function and Media keys.
With its precise typing and smart lighting, the MX Keys Mini for Mac is a real joy to type on. I have one of the earlier models and it is so easy to type, I often pull it out if I have a very long article to write as it is so relaxing to use and easy on the wrists. Battery life on all MX products is extremely good, especially with the rechargeable batteries.
Like other Logi keyboards and mice announced today, the MX Keys Mini can be customized and programmed with the excellent Logi Options+ software which can assign specific functions to the keys depending on the software package being used.
The latest product announced today is the Logi Ergo Wave Keys for Mac. This is Logitech’s first ergonomic keyboard for Mac and features a built-in palm rest with a soft cushion. Ergo Wave Keys is available in white and was developed in the Logi Ergo Lab. If you’re one of those people who find the regular keyboard a pain in the neck, then the Ergo Wave Keys for Mac could be the answer.
If you decide to switch to the Ergo Wave, be prepared to spend a few days relearning how to type because of the new layout. It takes a bit of getting used to and then it’s not that easy to go back to a regular keyboard, but if you’re one of those people who suffer from RSI or wrist pain, it’s worth a try and it’s affordable.
When it comes to durability, Logitech is a company that really walks the talk. The company has made massive strides in recent years with each new generation of its keyboards and mice having a lower carbon footprint than the previous one.
Users can now have Logitech devices designed in accordance with the principles of Sustainable Design (DfS). This means they are made with alternative materials such as Next Life recycled plastic instead of virgin plastic. Using more sustainable materials should increase turnover and reduce the overall carbon footprint of the product.
The plastics used in the newest products in the Logi for Mac portfolio include up to 78% Next Life plastics. The MX series has now fully switched to post-consumer recycled plastic. Logitech has reduced the carbon footprint of the MX Keys S for Mac by 11% compared to the previous version, resulting in 192 t CO2e avoided per 100,000 units, which Logitech claims is enough to travel around the earth 20 times.
Price and availability: The 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, the Ergo Wave Keys for Mac retails for $59.99 / £69.99 / €79.99. All products will be available globally in May 2024 through www.logitech.com or other retailers.