Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s Review

This ultra-slim, portable keyboard offered in Rose, Blue, White, or Graphite was designed with a focus on features. It sports rounded “pebble-like” keys that provide a comfy and quiet typing experience. Plus, it connects to anything and everything via Bluetooth and has a battery life that will last years. Made with a minimum of 50% recycled plastic and Carbon Neutral Certified, you will feel confident with your sustainable purchasing decision.

Performance Comparison

Connectivity and Ease of Use

The Pebble Keys 2 shines in its ability to connect to any Bluetooth-enabled device, but we wish Logitech included the Logi Bolt USB receiver in the package. The compatibility list is impressive: Windows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, Android, ChromeOS, Chromebook, and Linux. Seriously, did we miss anything? If you only use Apple devices, Logitech sells a dedicated Mac version that's worth a peek.

We found that the Bluetooth connection took a normal amount of time to pair with our devices, and once connected, we experienced no connectivity or lag issues. It forms a strong connection that is usable up to 40+ feet from the device!

Included with the keyboard is access to Logitech's Options+ customization software. The software is super easy to navigate and allows users to customize F keys and even create “Smart Actions” to automate repetitive tasks, similar to creating macros. Just a heads up, though, the Options+ software only works with Windows and Mac.

The actual keys of the Pebble Keys are incredibly responsive, and their scooping shape “hugs” your fingertips, but their small size may not work for everyone. They are round, rather than the more familiar square shape, and supported by membrane-scissor switches. The scissor switches provide a low-profile design that puts less strain on the wrists. They are incredibly quiet, ensuring you don't disturb others around you. Plus, they have a soft yet stable feel. But the small, rounded keycaps can take some time to get used to, especially if you have larger hands. In addition, the keyboard is 25% smaller than a regular full-size model, so it can feel scrunched for those with a large body frame. But then again, a compact size was the intention of this keyboard's design.

Features

Logitech's K380s is a feature-rich keyboard boasting modern hotkeys, customizable F keys, dual PC/Mac labeled modifier keys, and up to three-device connectivity. But with a compact design comes fewer quick-access buttons, and it lacks a backlight (which isn't a dealbreaker for some).

The hotkeys include more modern options like voice dictation, emoji menu, and screen capture, among the more standard options of volume up/down/mute, show desktop, search, and more. Plus, they are dedicated on both Mac and Windows operating systems, meaning you won't have to press the Fn key to use them. We missed the lack of a built-in track forward/back button, but with Options+, you could always add it back in. You can customize a total of 10 keys this way. Or, you can set up macro-like “Smart Actions” for things like your morning routine, opening up all your favorite productivity apps with a simple click. If you prefer direct access to the function keys rather than the media/hotkeys, you can swap their roles.

Plus, there are dedicated device keys to swiftly toggle between three connected devices (and a light to let you know which one you've selected). The Options+ “Flow” feature allows you to conveniently transfer text, images, and files between the devices. The only things missing are the navigation buttons and number pad found on full-size models.

Rounding out our features metric is the rollover score. We measured a five-key rollover, meaning you can press up to five keys simultaneously, making the keyboard an excellent pick for speedy, heavy-handed typists. For those who want to game on to go, this keyboard will work with most games, but an N-key rollover would be better.

Portability

The K380s earned top rankings in our portability metric.

Weighing in at just under a pound (14.5 ounces), the Pebble Keys 2 has many important features of a full-size keyboard while feeling light yet sturdy.

Its 11-inch length easily fits into a backpack for transporting it to and from work. But, its short length is only made possible by the lack of a number pad.

Plus, at roughly 0.5-inches high, it occupies a relatively low volume of space.

If you're using the keyboard away from a desk, it sits nicely on your lap or an airplane tray. Plus, it has four rubber pads on the bottom to keep it firmly in place wherever you decide to put it, though it lacks an adjustable height.

Battery Life

The keyboard is powered by two replaceable AAA batteries. While we cannot confirm Logitech's claims, the included alkaline batteries are predicted to last up to three full years! This is a much longer lifespan than the days or months of some of our other models. Every few years, you'll get to look forward to seeing the battery LED turn red, letting you know it's almost time to swap them out. If you use the Options+ software, you'll be able to see the precise battery level and get notifications when it's running low.

Should You Buy the Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s?

With a low price that's almost hard to believe, this feature-rich keyboard is a superior choice for a blogger on the road, the jet-setting multi-tasker, or a traveling worker bee. You'll certainly get a few approving nods when you break out this little gem from your carry-on. But, with a portable design comes a small size that may not work for all body types. Plus, it has fewer hotkeys and lacks navigation buttons that some professionals may require. Still, for a quality-built, sustainably-produced, and affordable portable keyboard, the Pebble Keys 2 delivers!

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