The Evolution of Logitech's Keyboard Lineup: Embracing Enthusiast Features
Logitech has taken a bold step with its latest keyboard offering, the Alto Keys K98M, by incorporating features that cater to enthusiasts. This mechanical keyboard, initially launched in China and select markets, has now made its way to North America, offering a unique blend of mass-market appeal and enthusiast-grade customization.
Priced at $149.99, the Alto Keys K98M is an almost full-size 1800-layout keyboard with a compact design that retains a number pad. What sets it apart is its fully hot-swappable nature, allowing users to replace standard Cherry MX-compatible key switches, and its internal gasket mount, providing a semi-soft typing experience. Logitech seems to be catching up with the enthusiast keyboard market, and we're here for it!
The Alto Keys sports a two-piece plastic case with a translucent top and an opaque bottom, color-matched to its included keycaps. Available in white, graphite, and lavender, it boasts a simple yet appealing aesthetic. Its specs include an impressive claimed battery life of up to 12 months (without backlighting) and versatile wireless connectivity options, compatible with various operating systems.
I had the pleasure of reviewing a unit, and I must say, the Alto Keys delivers on looks, sound, and typing feel. The translucent plastic and visible internal gasket tray create an airy design, especially captivating in lavender. The customization options are a highlight, allowing users to swap switches and keycaps to create their unique typing experience. However, the software experience could use some improvement.
Logitech's Logi Options Plus app is user-friendly with a nice UI for basic settings, but it falls short when it comes to keyboard adjustments. It restricts customization to only 12 F-row keys, unlike cheaper keyboards with QMK or VIA software, which offer virtually unlimited remapping options. This limitation might be a deal-breaker for some enthusiasts.
While the Alto Keys may not produce the bold, distinct sound of small-brand enthusiast boards with metal cases, it still provides a pleasant typing experience. The light, clacky sound is well-balanced, suitable for most office environments. Logitech's marble switches offer a linear travel of 3.5mm, providing a smooth and weighted feel without being overly heavy or light. The UniCushion gasket adds a touch of flexibility, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, I'm impressed with the Alto Keys and hope to see more enthusiast-inspired designs from Logitech. The translucent design is a fun touch, and I'd love to see more of it. However, at $150, it faces stiff competition from prebuilt keyboards by smaller brands, offering better software customization and higher-quality materials at a lower price point. Brands like Epomaker, Wobkey, and Chilkey provide excellent alternatives.
For those who prefer a plastic case, options from Keychron or Aula are more budget-friendly. Nonetheless, the Alto Keys is a refreshing addition to Logitech's lineup, and I'm excited to see what they bring next. Perhaps the 75-percent Alto Keys K75M will make its way over for those who prefer a more compact layout without the number pad.
Photography by Antonio G. Di Benedetto / The Verge
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