What To Know
- If you value portability, a premium design, and seamless integration with Surface devices, the Microsoft Surface Keyboard is an excellent pick.
- The MX Keys has a longer battery life of up to 10 months with the backlight turned off, compared to the Surface Keyboard’s battery life of around 150 hours.
- The Microsoft Surface Keyboard is slightly quieter than the MX Keys, making it a better choice for noise-sensitive environments.
In the realm of productivity tools, keyboards play a crucial role in shaping our work experience. Two renowned contenders in this space are the Microsoft Surface Keyboard and the MX Keys from Logitech. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of both keyboards, examining their features, performance, and suitability for different users.
Design and Aesthetics
Microsoft Surface Keyboard:
- Sleek and minimalist design with a low-profile, scissor-switch key mechanism
- Premium materials, including a combination of aluminum and Alcantara fabric
- Compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel
MX Keys:
- Ergonomic design with a curved keybed and cushioned palm rest
- Tactile and responsive keys with a natural typing feel
- Customizable RGB lighting with multiple effects
Key Feel and Typing Experience
Microsoft Surface Keyboard:
- Precise and responsive keystrokes with a shallow travel distance
- Backlit keys with adjustable brightness for optimal visibility
- Quiet typing experience, suitable for noise-sensitive environments
MX Keys:
- Tactile and satisfying typing feel with a slightly deeper key travel
- Logitech’s PerfectStroke key system ensures consistent keystrokes
- Quieter than mechanical keyboards but provides a more pronounced clicky feedback
Connectivity and Compatibility
Microsoft Surface Keyboard:
- Bluetooth 5.0 and USB-C connectivity
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, and iOS devices
- Swift Pair technology for effortless pairing with Surface devices
MX Keys:
- Bluetooth, USB-C, and Unifying USB receiver connectivity
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS devices
- Multi-device pairing with the ability to switch between up to three devices seamlessly
Additional Features
Microsoft Surface Keyboard:
- Fingerprint scanner integrated into the function key row
- Dedicated media keys for quick control of music and videos
- Ambient light sensor for automatic backlight adjustment
MX Keys:
- Smart illumination that automatically adjusts to ambient light
- Logitech Options software for customization of key functions and macros
- Emojis and special character keys for enhanced communication
Ergonomics and Comfort
Microsoft Surface Keyboard:
- Low-profile design reduces wrist strain
- Alcantara fabric provides a soft and comfortable palm rest
- Compact size makes it suitable for smaller workspaces
MX Keys:
- Ergonomic design with a curved keybed and cushioned palm rest
- Adjustable typing angle for optimal comfort
- Longer key travel may be preferred by users who prefer a more tactile typing experience
Price and Availability
Microsoft Surface Keyboard:
- Priced around $129.99
- Available from Microsoft and authorized retailers
MX Keys:
- Priced around $99.99
- Available from Logitech and authorized retailers
In a nutshell: Choosing the Right Keyboard for Your Needs
Both the Microsoft Surface Keyboard and MX Keys offer exceptional typing experiences, with distinct features that cater to different user preferences. The Surface Keyboard excels in portability, aesthetics, and integration with Microsoft devices, while the MX Keys provides superior ergonomics, tactile feedback, and customization options.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual requirements and priorities. If you value portability, a premium design, and seamless integration with Surface devices, the Microsoft Surface Keyboard is an excellent pick. However, if you prioritize ergonomics, tactile typing feel, and extensive customization options, the MX Keys is the ideal choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which keyboard has a more durable build quality?
A: Both keyboards are well-built, but the Microsoft Surface Keyboard may have a slight edge due to its premium materials and solid construction.
Q: Can I use the fingerprint scanner on the Surface Keyboard with non-Surface devices?
A: No, the fingerprint scanner is only compatible with Surface devices running Windows 10 or later.
Q: Which keyboard has better battery life?
A: The MX Keys has a longer battery life of up to 10 months with the backlight turned off, compared to the Surface Keyboard’s battery life of around 150 hours.
Q: Can I use both keyboards simultaneously with multiple devices?
A: Yes, both keyboards support multi-device pairing, allowing you to switch between up to three devices seamlessly.
Q: Which keyboard is quieter for use in shared spaces?
A: The Microsoft Surface Keyboard is slightly quieter than the MX Keys, making it a better choice for noise-sensitive environments.
