The Logitech K380 is a modest keyboard offering the convenience of wireless connectivity and a compact tenkeyless (TKL) design, making it highly portable. What sets it apart is its budget-friendly price point.
Introduction:
Logitech boasts a diverse keyboard lineup, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end models with premium features. The K380, under scrutiny here, falls into the former category. Priced at around €30 to €35 at the time of this review, it may not match the capabilities of the MX Keys, but it holds its own with wireless functionality and a compact design. It also comes in five color variants, from classic black to vibrant pink and sandy brown.
Let’s delve into our assessments to see if the K380 strikes the right balance and if Logitech has made any significant compromises in pursuit of affordability.
Ergonomics:
The K380 is a compact TKL keyboard, sans the numeric keypad, making it a space-saving marvel, measuring just 11 inches in width and 4.9 inches in depth. Its petite dimensions make it effortlessly portable, fitting snugly into a bag, and tipping the scales at a mere 423 grams. The 60% layout proves highly practical, assuming you don’t frequently require a numeric pad.
The keyboard’s slim profile, at 16mm thickness, eliminates the need for a palm rest. However, it’s worth noting that the keyboard lacks adjustable tilt, which may be a drawback for some users. There are four non-slip feet underneath to prevent unwanted movement, and an access cover for the AAA batteries. Remarkably, the battery life is estimated at an impressive 2 years. On the left edge, you’ll find the power switch.
This remarkable longevity is largely attributed to the absence of backlighting. Typically, wireless keyboards with backlighting fall into the higher-end spectrum (e.g., MX Keys, Pro Type Ultra, or gaming keyboards).
Build quality is quite basic, although the chassis appears sturdy. Notably, the finish quality leaves room for improvement, and the printed symbols may not withstand the test of time. Assessing the long-term durability of materials in a few days of testing is challenging, however.
Key comfort is not at its pinnacle. The flat key design doesn’t provide the same tactile feedback as the concave keys found on models like the MX Keys. Additionally, some users may find the keys a tad small, although this is subjective and depends on individual hand size and preference.
The key layout is relatively standard, featuring dual PC/Mac key markings, which might be slightly perplexing for users unfamiliar with this arrangement. Nevertheless, it’s a welcome feature if you frequently switch between PC and Mac. The keyboard can also connect to three different devices using Bluetooth and Easy-Switch technology, activated by pressing the F1 to F3 keys—highly convenient for those working across multiple computers, such as home and office setups.
Typing Experience:
The K380 employs scissor switches akin to those found in laptop keyboards. Typing on it is notably quiet, but the key travel is short and crisp. In essence, while the K380 is serviceable for regular typing tasks, it doesn’t quite match the typing experience offered by high-end keyboards. It’s not recommended for gaming either, as it lacks a 2.4 GHz receiver and cannot be connected via a wired connection to reduce latency.
Conclusion:
The Logitech K380 stands as a small, utilitarian wireless keyboard that excels in portability. While it may not be without flaws and features an all-plastic construction that lacks a premium sheen, it delivers efficiency and silence. Moreover, it offers excellent value for its price, making it an appealing choice for users seeking a no-frills wireless keyboard.
STRONG POINTS
- Compact and lightweight.
- Bluetooth connection to 3 devices.
- Silent.
- Huge autonomy.
WEAK POINTS
- Summary construction.
- No backlighting.
- Basic typing sensations.
