Logitech - K480 Bluetooth Multidevice Keyboard - Black

PREFACE : I swear by Logitech "computer" accessories! - ALL of my "mice" (wireless AND cord-connected), and all my desktop speaker systems are Logitech products. ... Logitech designs, manufactures AND supports truly high-quality accessories, and they sell them at REALLY reasonable prices through many highly reputable sources! UTILITARIAN (YET ELEGANT) DESIGN CHARACTERISTICS : This k480 Bluetooth Multidevice Keyboard IS NO EXCEPTION to my previous statement. - I purchased it to accompany my Digiland DL808W 8" Windows 10 Tablet. I have my Digiland tablet in a Thermoplastic Polyurethane "Gel Shell" Case/Cover (flexible, full-surround "rubber" protector) AND IT STILL FITS in the "stand-up" (molded "rubber") device slot (10 & 5/8" long by 7/16" wide by 1/2" deep) built into this keyboard's case. I am quite sure that this slot will fit ANY "naked" smart phone (or 2, vertically) or tablet made by Apple or Samsung, among others (although a large tablet may have to be turned vertically). ... The "stand-up" device slot IS a true stroke of design genius, and just the kind of thoughtful design element that I have come to expect from Logitech. However, there is a price to pay for the nifty "stand-up" device slot: This keyboard is QUITE heavy - 1 pound, 12 and half ounces with batteries. - There IS a reason why this portable, wireless keyboard has to be so heavy though: Its weight provides plenty of "counter-balance" for even the heaviest 10 inch tablets, when it is sitting flat on a table or desk top. A stiff gust of wind is not going to up-end this keyboard when it is cradling your iPad. Initially I thought its heft was a detractor, until I put my 10 inch tablet in the slot ... the counter weighting REALLY DOES ADD TO ITS STABILITY! EASY OPERABILITY FOR HUMANS AND "GEEKS" : This keyboard "PAIRS" EASILY with up to three separate Bluetooth-capable devices and the rotating "selector" switch makes changing the keyboard's connection between your three devices nearly infallible. - I have it paired with my Digiland 8" tablet, my ASUS 10.1" Transformer Book 2-in-1 and my Lenovo 15.6" G50 series laptop. It works really well with all three of them, and it allows me to lie in bed and type from across the room while my computer remains on the desk attached to all my storage devices, modem connections and printers. (Yes, I do have my computer hooked up to my TV with an HDMI cable.) ... Operating range for this keyboard is supposed to be up to 30 feet away (more or less) from its "receiving" device. I haven't tried it at much more than 15 to 20 feet away, but it worked just fine at these distances! The keys on this keyboard are light and responsive, and yet, they do deliver positive feedback for the reasonably adept "touch" typist and more than ample responsiveness and feedback for the "hunt-and-peck" typist as well. It is not much harder to get used to typing with than most modern compact laptops or netbooks. - If you can type 120 WPM on an IBM Selectric, you are going to be lucky to do nearly that speed on this, or any other "compact" keyboard that you can put in a medium-sized messenger bag. MY "COUCHED" COMPLAINTS : The battery "door"/retainer cover seems really loose and only has two very small retainer "hooks"/teeth to hold it in its slot. I find myself wanting to reach for a strip of adhesive tape to help hold it in the position where it is supposed to "latch". - I am using Duracell Quantum (with "Powerlock") batteries, so hopefully I won't have to mess with this battery retainer cover for at least 12 months (or maybe as many as 24 months), because I AM really disciplined about switching my devices off if I'm not going to be using them for more than a couple days. This complaint (born from years of aggravation) applies to this keyboard AND nearly all my Logitech mice (but NOT their desktop speaker systems). - The On/Off switch on this keyboard really seems like a cheap, "satisficed" after-thought: #1) It is a REALLY small tab of plastic; it is a completely smooth button without even having their usual small, nearly undetectable ridge on it. They could have molded in a set of deep ridges across the whole exposed surface of the switch or maybe a small round knob like a small male Lego block connector. #2) Even if this switch had a better, more tactile surface, it is still REALLY loose and feels like it could be pushed into the "wrong" ("On" when you are trying to put it away, or "Off" when you are jamming on a "stream of consciousness" document creation session) position with only the slightest brush of a finger or knuckle, etc. - This "wibbly-wobbly" switch complaint is especially glaring when there are two other switches on this keyboard that are solid, strong, and positively responsive with the physical reactivity that you expect from a device that is meant to last for years upon years of regular use. In Logitech's defense: After a dozen years of experience with Logitech accessories, I have NEVER had a power switch FAIL OUTRIGHT. Although, I have had several mouse (mostly left) buttons become "sticky" or barely responsive to normal finger pressure. However, this was AFTER 5 years (or more) of daily use. I'm sure that as careful as I am with ALL of my electronic equipment, I will be using this Logitech k480 Bluetooth Multidevice Keyboard HAPPILY for many years to come!

I've owned/used several wireless keyboards over the years (all but a few being Logitech), including a few "multi-device" keyboards. Through personal experience, I've had to deal with numerous problems - keyboards constantly disconnecting/reconnecting; ghost "stuck keys" where the physical key isn't actually stuck, but the keyboard continuously sends a signal as if the key is pressed; keyboards that claim to be compatible with any Android device, but actually aren't. I could continue pointing out problems, but those reading this should get the picture, and those who have used wireless keyboards...especially Bluetooth keyboards...understand what I'm referring to. The funny thing about this...in a sad way...is that I had considered the K480 a while back, but dismissed it due to its price. Well, as is said fairly often, “You get what you pay for.” The Logitech "Tablet Keyboard for Android 3+" was good, but could only connect to my cell phones & tablet. While I really liked the keyboard's case doing double-duty as a tablet stand, that couldn’t make up for its inability to connect with non-Android devices. Additionally, it had an ongoing “ghost stuck key” problem, making it relatively useless. Two other keyboards purchased through Amazon (one cheap, the other costing as bit more) were true multi-device keyboards, but both had markings specific to a single device (on the cheap keyboard), or only two device types (Windows & Android on the more costly keyboard). While the more costly keyboard did connected to the MacBook, its lack of Apple-specific markings wasn’t its only downfall – its disconnect/reconnect problem was worse than that of the Logitech keyboard mentioned above. Now...moving to Logitech's K480, this is the first wireless keyboard that I've had which is TRULY multi-device compatible. To start with, it has Windows, Mac, & Android markings, completely taking away any guesswork from the previous keyboards. Second, it connects to all three device-types, without fail. In testing it, I’ve had it connected to my Windows laptop, both of my Android tablets (Samsung & Asus), my Samsung phone, and the church's MacBook Pro (ok, with the MacBook, it has disconnected/reconnected, but very rarely…but it always connects initially without fail). In terms of switching devices on the fly, I've had it simultaneously connected to the MacBook, my cellphone, and one of my tablets (honestly, I was trying to remember whether it was the Asus, or Samsung, but I couldn't recall), and switching keyboard control from any one device, to another, is as simple as turning the dial...and it ALWAYS functions correctly. My ONLY complaint is the neon yellowish-green rubber on the dial, and in the tablet stand. While I’d have preferred blue, white, gray, and even black, would have been far more acceptable. I do realize that Logitech used to make a white version, with gray rubber pieces, but it was aimed primarily at Mac users, and has since been discontinued. You can find a few online retailers carrying refurbished units, but, if you want a new unit, you’ll be hard-pressed to find it…thus, the only realistic choice is the black with neon yellowish-green. Ignoring my one complaint, you will NOT find a better multi-device wireless keyboard. True, it’s not a full-size keyboard, but, if you have need of such, then you should really be sticking with a wireless keyboard designed for one specific type of device. On the other hand, if you have need of a multi-device wireless keyboard, to be used with different device types, then the Logitech K480 will not only be your best choice…it should be your ONLY choice.

First I want to explain that this is the second Logitech Bluetooth keyboard I've had. About three years ago I got an iPad Air and a month or two later bought a Logitech keyboard specifically for the iPad. I use it daily and I think in all that time I've replaced the batteries once. I do turn it off when I'm not using it so that does help on saving battery power. A year after I got the iPad, I got an iPhone 6 Plus. Recently someone showed me the K480 and said it would work with multiple devices and the price was right so I got it. I think I've had it a month or so now and tonight had to replace the batteries to type this review. It may be the original ones were already weak when I got it, I don't know. Anyway, there are some things I like about this keyboard and some things I like better about the one made specifically for the iPad. Because this one is able to cross lines between android, IOS and PC, there are some functions that work on the other one that don't work on the K480. Example: on the other one if I have two apps open I can do command tab to toggle between the two apps. This one does not have that feature. I had no problem pairing the iPhone with the K480. I did have a problem pairing it with the iPad. I suspect the problem is because I did not delete the pairing information in the iPad before trying to pair the K480 with it. I think there must be some kind of software glitch where it won't allow you to pair with two different keyboards on the same device. I finally gave up and use this K480 when I'm at home on the iPhone and use the other keyboard with iPad. It would be a little too big and heavy to put in a purse to take everywhere, so I mostly use it at home. Inspite of those issues I still think it's a pretty good machine and the price was right. It was less than half the cost of the one that works just with iPad. Although the K480 will not work with the iPad without me deleting the other keyboard out of the Bluetooth menu, there is one thing I use the K480 for with the iPad. It's the tray. The iPad has a folio case and when I FaceTime, I can never quite get the iPad into the position I want it to talk. Many of the people I talk to on FaceTime are deaf or hard of hearing, so we really do need to see each other to communicate and having a folio case that won't hold something in position while you're trying to sign something can be frustrating. That tray holds it just perfectly at just the right angle. So, although I don't use it for typing on the iPad, it's still a keeper and useable with the iPad for FaceTiming. I like the touch a little better on the other keyboard but the touch on this K480 is okay. I'm a good typist and I don't find it clunky or cumbersome, just like the touch of the other one a little better.

Super easy setup with both my Asus Zenpad 3S 10 and my Samsung Galaxy S8 Active. The typing is clear and crisp, and I really appreciate the fact that the keys are not dead or soft touch. On my home computer I use and mechanical keyboard, and when I try using the flat or soft keys I spend all of my time on the backspace key. It took no time to get used to the keyboard because the key layout is exactly the same as my Tesla keyboard, except for the arrow and start keys. The slot holds both the tablet and phone with my cases and glass covers, but when I put my S8 Active in its Supcase Beetle Unicorn case, then it is too thick. Not a problem as I will rest it on the tablet since I'm not ever taking the phone out of the case. I am obviously different than many on here because I love the solid feel and weight of the keyboard. It is not going to be knocked over by the idiot in front of me while they are performing gymnastics in their seat while I have my tray table down. I've ordered the carry case for the keyboard, which will also hold my tablet and charger. If I have any gripe, and I'm not certain this is even a gripe, is that it is so deep front to back. I wonder if they could take away the 1" bezel along the back and make it a little less deep. A majority of the depth comes from the notch for your BT device, so it is expected. Currently, the extra depth is where the batteries are housed, so if they could move the batteries between the notch and the top row of keys this would be a 5 Star+ buy over my current rating of 5 stars. Landscape or portrait depends on your application, not the keyboard.

I bought myself an ASUS (Android) tablet a while ago, and have been looking for a Bluetooth keyboard that: 1. Doesn't cost an arm and a leg. 2. Will work with a broad variety of devices. (Not just Samsung or Apple) 3. Isn't flimsy, and can be used by my fat fingers. 4. Has a good tactile key-feel. This particular keyboard meets all of these criteria, and does it remarkably well. 1. For the features and build quality given, it is remarkably inexpensive. Despite being inexpensive, it doesn't feel like a cheaply made piece of junk. 2. It worked with my tablet right out of the box - no "updates", no "special drivers", it just worked. Unlike other Bluetooth keyboards I have tried, it paired quickly and reliably. Other keyboards I tried either had trouble pairing, or would not hold a connection to my tablet. 3(a). It is not flimsy. In fact it has a remarkably solid feel to it. Admittedly, it's a bit thicker and heavier than the usual run-of-the-mill Bluetooth keyboards, but the added thickness and weight makes it a solid piece that I am not afraid to pound on. 3(b). One of my biggest complaints with the usual Bluetooth keyboard is that the keys are too small. This keyboard is large enough to provide a reasonable key-spacing which allows me to type normally without having to worry about what key I'm going to hit. 4. The "key-feel" of *any* keyboard is one of the most important attributes, and a keyboard's key-feel is what distinguishes a good keyboard from the many punter "wannabees" out there. This keyboard, despite it's small size, has a remarkably firm and positive key-feel and tactile feedback. Additional things I liked about it: * It uses regular batteries. Since this keyboard uses regular Alkaline batteries, you don't have to worry about charging it. Likewise, since it uses "replaceable" batteries, the keyboard doesn't become landfill once the internal battery dies. * It has a docking slot that is both deep enough, and wide enough, to accommodate a 10+" tablet without being clumsy or top-heavy. * It allows for multiple-device pairing. The ability to selectively pair with more than one device is a welcome feature - one that I would not have expected to see on a keyboard in this price-range. This is done by a three-position switch that allows you to select one of three possible devices to pair with. With this feature, I can pair the keyboard with both MY, and MY WIFE'S tablets, and freely move the keyboard from one to the other without jumping through hoops. All I have to do is set the switch to the one-of-three positions it's paired to, and turn it on. ------------------------------------- Disadvantages: 1. It's not a "micro-thin" keyboard. If you're looking for a keyboard that you can fold up and put in your shirt pocket, this is NOT the keyboard for you. 2. It's no featherweight. (See "It's not micro-thin") This keyboard is SOLIDLY BUILT, and will take a bit of abuse, but it's not the lightest keyboard out there. Like I said above, if thinness and lightness are important criteria, you may want to look elsewhere. 3. Some consumers may object to it using replaceable batteries instead of an internal rechargeable battery. IMHO, if this is a concern, get a battery charger and some rechargeable batteries. Bottom Line: This is a well thought-out keyboard that is built to last. Would I recommend it? Absolutely!

The Logitech K480 keyboard is an excellent choice for a keyboard to connect to your iPhone, Android, iPad, or other mobile device. Pros: 1. Key feel is nice 2. Touch placement is adequate and works for touch typing 3. Key travel is sufficient 4. Key stiffness is good 5. Tactile feedback is good 6. Weight and solid feel is Excellent 7. Battery life is great with ability to replace with standard/common AAA batteries 8. Ability to attach to 3 devices and switch between them with the rotary switch 9. Pairing works well and straight forward 10. Function keys like F1, F2, volume, cursor, etc. is a plus. Cons: Relatively few and I am nit-picking just to find any to say 1. Keyboard size, but this is a actually good because you do not want keys too small to touch type 2. Weight - it is a little heavy, but this adds to the solid feel and the keyboard does not move around when typing like some of the cheap stuff. 4. Limit connectivity to 3 devices; most people would not need to connect more. 5. Non-rechargeable - but that is not needed since it is so good with the use of batteries and replacement of batteries is with 2 standard AAA. 6. No speakers - wouldn't it be great if this keyboard even provided you with Bluetooth speaker capability in addition to the keyboard functionality? OK, that's a little out of scope for a keyboard, but that would make this product killer-good! Summary: Worth every penny and highly recommend. I like it so much, I pair it to my iPhone, iPad, and Computer. I had to choose, since there was only a maximum of 3 simultaneous connections and had to leave my Android tablet orphaned, but this allowed me to connect my most used devices. I like the keyboard so much, I use it even on my PC notebook computer because I like the keyboard better than the keyboard on the notebook computer! It also allows me to use one keyboard and switch between all my most used devices. So cool and convenient. It also allows me to use my iPad so much more so I do not use my PC as much. Full disclosure - I used this keyboard to write this evaluation - can you tell? ;-) This keyboard is a game changer!

Style: The keyboard does have a thickness to the device. For example, I've put a 20 oz. plastic bottle cap next to the keyboard for size comparison and they're both exactly the same thickness. However, this does not bother me as the keyboard is always at home. Height - 0.79 inches Weight: The weight doesn't bother me but for some folks out there, this may be an issue if you choose to carry this with you in your bag along with your tablet. Keep in mind thickness and weight. Weight 1.81 ounces. Performance: The keys do have a solid reaction time and performs as any keyboard should. Now with that said, the bluetooth capabilities on this keyboard are excellent because the keys react along with my typing speed. I type roughly about 100+ words a minute and this has posed no issue for me. This keyboard is only used for my gaming station and laptop hooked via a monitor through HDMI. I have a wireless mouse attached to the keyboard and with these two paired up, I couldn't ask for anything more. Yes, this does sync and works well on the PS4, PS3, and Android phones/tablets. Cons: When it comes to the keys, pressing down is not the same as any other keyboard whether it be membrane, mechanical, etc. The keys for an advanced typist may feel stressful on the fingers and wrists, if used for a long period of time. I had no such issues because this is not a primary keyboard for me but I have been able to make a few mistakes because the keys are closer together and require harder presses than a regular keyboard. Bluetooth Dial: This is a great idea and I love how easily I can change from one device to another in an instant without the need of pairing. Again, with that said, the downside or rather a concern for me is how well this keyboard will handle stress and age with a rotating dial. For the user that is going to be using this a lot, I can predict the dial starting to act up with age. I wish that the dial would have been a button selection similar to the Logitech - K380 Wireless Keyboard. The cons are for those whom I am predicting this to be a problem towards the device but as for me, I'm content and glad I purchased this keyboard because this has served my needs and more. Thank you BestBuy and Logitech for a solid device worth the money!

When I upgraded my ancient cell phone, I missed the old slide out keyboard and found composing emails difficult due to my fine motor control deficiencies. I shopped long and hard for a keyboard looking at all manner of "android keyboard reviews" and saw some great models, many more expensive than I wanted. But then the K480 caught my eye and seemed the perfect fit for what I wanted. That other online store jerked me around by requiring subscription to their premium services, and when I saw Best Buy had a better price on sale that weekend and I could pick up in store, I was sold. I have not regretted this purchase for a minute. The K480 is in my backpack and goes with me everywhere. It pairs instantly with my Android phone and I can finally compose messages again even with my shaky hands. The tray slot holds cell phones and tablets perfectly. At first I thought the 3 way switcher was a gimmicky feature I wouldn't use, but it really does work like a KVM where I could pair with my Android, Chomebook, and Windows 10 laptop simultaneously. I've also paired it with an older iPad device and Chromebit on my TV. Everywhere it has worked flawlessly. The only platform I haven't tested pairing with is MacOS X. The keyboard itself is extremely sturdy. Other reviewers said it was virtually indestructible. Having used it I agree, it is remarkably sturdy and the keys are designed to take abuse. It's a lot of fun to pull out my keyboard and Android phone when I'm working with a client: At first they laugh at my "tiny laptop" but when I demonstrate my GNUroot Debian app, and start launching pen testing tools from a Linux command prompt on my Android, the trusty K480 really shines, and the combo never fails to make a good impression.