Logitech K480 Bluetooth Multi device Keyboard Review. Check out the new Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard from Logitech. The Logitech K480 comes with a solid feel and gives you an excellent typing experience in a portable multi-device design. It allows you to pair and switch between 3 different devices on the fly with a turn of the dial.
Typing with a remote control is not very fun; it reminds me of typing on a clamshell phone. And while I’m not a big fan of Bluetooth anything, it’s available on most every device out there, so I’ve been searching for a nice little keyboard specifically for the AppleTV 3, iPads, Android tablets for some time and the Logitech K480 works with flying colors. It’s not the smallest or lightest but it works for me on price and functionality as well as design and comfort. It’s a great little keyboard for $49.00.
Specifications
The K480 measures 0.79 inches H x 11.77 inches W x 7.68 inches D and weighs 1.81lbs making it fairly heavy which allows the unit to feel stabile even on your lap. The unit will put itself to sleep automatically staying in standby when you need it or you can also toggle the unit off with the on/off switch on the bottom if you intend to travel with it. A power LED indicator light located next to the toggle will illuminate for a short period when you turn the device on letting you know what the status of your AAA batteries are.
A convenient built-in slot resides along the top of the keyboard for you to seat your favorite smartphone or tablet in. It’s definitely wide enough to place a smartphone and an 8 inch tablet in portrait orientation side by side. The slot is angled away from you slightly for a comfortable viewing angle and uses a softer plastic to protect your devices. The slot will hold most any smartphone or tablet perfectly up to 10.5mm (0.4 inches) thick and 258mm (10 inches) wide.
The K480’s Bluetooth has an ample range for most indoor applications at 30 feet. Your mileage may vary depending on the electronic or other common types of interference at your location. The K480 is compatible with Windows 7/8+, Mac OSX+, Chrome OS, iOS 5+, Android 3.2+ and comes with 2AAA batteries pre-installed.
Set up
Setting up the Logitech K480 is really quick and easy; simply tap a key to wake it up, select the number you’d like to pair the unit to 1,2 or 3. Press and hold either the “PC” button for Windows/Android/Chrome OS’s or the “i” button for Mac OSX and iOS, the respective LED next to your selection will blink, then simply choose the K480 on your device to finish the pairing.
If you’re using the K480 with your PC (Logitech Options), MAC (Logitech Preference Manager) or Android device (Logitech Keyboard Plus App) you can download optional software for added functionality such as customizing keyboard layouts for international usage, display notifications on your PC or MAC, set up custom shortcut keys…
Experience
Soft rounded corners with contour corresponding buttons and a nice black matte finish with neon green rubber accenting the integrated cradle give the keyboard a nice look. The design is conservative and it’s weight feels pleasant in hand and also offers stability when typing on your lap The white version offers a grey rubberized plastic on the selector dial and integrated cradle.
The action on the keys is nice and makes typing long documents or emails on your tablet/smartphone much more palatable. It’s a nice item to take with you on a trip to keep on a table in your hotel room, unfortunately it doesn’t come with a case. It’s also a bit heavy to carry around everywhere, but if you’re going to be someplace for a period of time, you may be able to justify the carry weight for the convenience.
A convenient dial on the left lets you quickly switch between paired units, a 5 second delay for the bluetooth to hook up and you’re ready to go. Roughly about the same short 5 second delay appears when waking the unit up for usage. Physically I would prefer the selector dial had some sort of texture to it, as it can become quite slippery to use with a dry thumb/fingers. Additionally the battery cover could be a little more sturdy but you will rarely take it off and just be careful with it.
Pairing devices was a snap, Android or iOS devices. Our review focus’s on using smartphones, tablets or media streamer devices that do not otherwise have a physical keyboard and make no claims on PC connectivity or usage.
Switching between devices is very convenient, though it isn’t quite as snappy as the video would portray due to a slight delay for Bluetooth to reconnect but isn’t a big deal. The built-in keyboard switch is a wonderful convenience to have and you can of course repair those 3 as needed in a snap.
Conclusion
Typing with your thumbs or a remote isn’t very fun and if you’re using an AppleTV or iPad or Android Tablet frequently, the Logitech K480 Bluetooth Multi device Keyboard is an absolute must have. The built-in smartphone and tablet stand is simple and works great. The ability to switch between devices at the turn of the dial is very convenient and set up is quick and easy. I highly recommend the Logitech K480 Bluetooth Multi Device Keyboard to enhance your typing experience on a portable device.
Available for $49.99
from www.LOGITECH.com
