Logitech Bluetooth Easy-Switch Keyboard Review
:: Price: $99.99
Device Reviewed With: iPad 3, iPad mini, Mac mini, Apple TV
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Alright, so I have to clarify: when I reviewed the K810 Bluetooth keyboard from Logitech this past December, I called it the best keyboard I'd ever used.
Today, I have to revise that conclusion, as the Logitech K811 Bluetooth keyboard is now, hands-down, my favorite keyboard, Bluetooth or otherwise.
This model has the same delightful feel as the K810, and really, it's the same device with one telling difference: the Command key. While I used the K9810 fairly often, and still do if I'm connecting to a Windows device, the K811's Mac-flavored keyboard layout is stunningly familiar, and enables me to stop fussing about with remembering what Windows-style button I need to press when I need a Command key (the Windows key) or an Option key (the Alt key, of course).
The Logitech Illuminated Easy Switch Keyboard for Apple devices is super easy to use and pair. I've got it connected to my Apple TV (go firmware updates!), my iPad mini, and my Mac mini (itself attached to my HDTV in my living room). The F1, F2, and F3 keys are switcher keys, meaning that in order to use one of the paired devices, I simply press the F key that corresponds to the device I want to use. I write with my iPad mini and my Mac mini running at the same time. When I need to chat with co-workers via Skype on the iPad mini, I hit the F3 key. When I want to type on the Mac mini (like I am right now), I hit the F1 key. When I'm bored with it all and want to relax with a little bit of Netflix, I hit the F2 key and the keyboard seamlessly switches to the Apple TV. It's all wonderfully easy.
Pairing to any device is as simple as pressing the Connect button, which is recessed on the bottom of the keyboard, and then pressing the F key I'd like to pair a device to. I've never had to drop into Bluetooth preferences on any of the Apple devices I've paired the keyboard to, and it remembers its own settings even when I turn the K811 off with the rather lovely side toggle on/off switch. This switch is a life saver, too, keeping me from accidentally turning on iTunes, for example, or powering up an iPad when it's in my messenger bag.
The look of the keyboard is very Apple through and through, with black keys, white letters, and a silvery background. The illumination is bright but not blinding, letting me see the keys in all sorts of lighting conditions. The keyboard charges with a micro USB cable, something I happen to have a billion of, and seems to not need a charge that often, even with continuous, heavy use.
I'd recommend the Logitech Easy Switch Illuminated Bluetooth K811 keyboard to anyone who wants a comfortable, ergonomic typing device that instantly switches from one Apple device to another. At $99.00, it's a bit pricey, but completely worth it.
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