Logitech MX Keys: A Linux-Compatible Productivity Keyboard

Overview

The Logitech MX Keys is a premium wireless keyboard positioned at productivity users. It connects via Logitech's Unifying USB dongle or Bluetooth and can pair with up to three devices simultaneously — useful for switching between a desktop and a laptop.

Linux Compatibility

Out of the box, the MX Keys works on Linux via Bluetooth or the USB dongle with no drivers needed. All standard keys function correctly. The media keys (volume, brightness, etc.) work as expected.

Logitech Options+ / Solaar: Logitech's official software doesn't support Linux, but the open-source tool Solaar fills that gap. With Solaar you can:

• Configure function key behavior
• Set the device to prefer function keys over media keys
• Monitor battery level
• Manage device pairing

Solaar is available in most distribution repositories.

Build Quality

The keyboard has a solid, premium feel. The backlit keys adjust automatically to ambient lighting, which works without any special drivers. The key travel is satisfying — not as deep as a mechanical keyboard, but more than most laptop keyboards.

Battery Life

Logitech claims up to 10 days with backlighting and 5 months without. In practice, with moderate backlight use, I get around 2 weeks per charge. Charges via USB-C.

What Could Be Better

• Solaar provides most features but is a third-party tool, not official support
• The keycaps show wear over time with heavy use
• No dedicated Linux key mapping app from Logitech

Verdict

The MX Keys is one of the best wireless keyboards for Linux users. It works without any configuration and Solaar provides the extra customization you'd want. The premium price is justified for daily productivity use.