When I travel, a portable mouse is a must. But I’ve never felt the same way about keyboards, because most portable options are still too big or burdened with some major compromises in the name of lightness. But with the Keys-To-Go 2, Logitech has managed to create a super-sleek typing accessory that disappears into your bag and can be paired with just about any device you can think of.
Design and features
Those who like to travel light can always opt for something like or , which can be paired with their own dedicated detachable keyboards. The problem is that these devices aren’t actually much smaller or lighter than an equivalent laptop. But with the Keys-To-Go 2 measuring just 7.8 ounces and a third of an inch at its thickest point, you get a true pint-sized companion that’s perfect for pairing with smaller devices like the iPad Mini or my personal favorite, a flip phone.
Engadget
For just $80, Logitech’s Keys-To-Go 2 is a super-slim and surprisingly versatile all-in-one travel keyboard.
- Extremely elegant
- Long battery life
- Compatible with all major operating systems
- Built-in folding lid
- Easy device switching
- There is no built-in stand
- Disposable batteries are locked behind Torx screws
$80 at Logitech
Obviously, a keyboard this thin doesn’t have much room for fancy switches. But Logitech somehow found enough room for 1.1mm of key travel. When combined with rubber domes under the keys, you end up with a typing experience that’s not that far off from what you get on a modern MacBook. Of course, the actuation is a bit softer and spongier, but for something this small, that’s understandable.
I also appreciate that despite its size, the Keys-To-Go 2 still has a full set of productivity shortcuts for things like volume, brightness, play/pause, and even Logitech’s signature emoji key. The latter feels at home when using the keyboard with a phone or tablet. You even get three Easy-Switch keys that let you change the keyboard’s Bluetooth connection between up to three devices with one touch.
Speaking of connected devices, the Keys-To-Go 2 works with virtually any gadget you’d want to bring on a trip. It supports Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, iPadOS and even ChromeOS. There are also two different layouts to choose from: a universal layout for all operating systems (that I tested) and one that is tailored for Apple devices. Finally, there’s a built-in cover that protects the keys while you’re on the go, which also rotates 360 degrees to provide a slight angle for improved typing ergonomics.
However, I wish Logitech had included some sort of built-in stand to support whatever device the keyboard is connected to. When I had a chance to speak with some of Logitech’s designers, they said they learned from customer surveys that most people who need a stand already have one attached to the case of their phone or tablet, which would make placing of such of Keys-To -Go 2 redundant. But as someone who hates boxes and doesn’t want to deal with a lot of add-ons, I think putting a stand in the keyboard would still be valuable.
Battery life
Logitech claims the Keys-To-Go 2 offers up to 36 months of battery life, but real-world numbers will vary greatly depending on how much you use it. That’s because that figure is based on the expectation that you only use the keyboard for two hours a day, which isn’t a lot, but makes sense for something that probably isn’t your primary work machine.
The potentially bigger problem is that the Keys-To-Go 2 relies on a pair of disposable coin cell batteries instead of a rechargeable power pack. Also, to access the batteries, you have to remove two Torx screws, which can be a problem if the keyboard dies while you’re traveling. In a perfect world, the Keys-To-Go 2 would also support USB-C charging. But given its size, finding a place for any port may have been extremely difficult.
Summary
Now, I’ll admit that the Keys-To-Go 2 is a pretty niche device. Its removable batteries and lack of charging ports or a cable connection means it can’t be your primary workhorse. And its thinness means typing isn’t as comfortable as a traditional desktop alternative. But at the same time, Logitech’s latest travel accessory excels at being a lightweight companion. It’s super slim, super light, and has a nifty finish to protect it while you’re transporting it. It works with multiple devices and operating systems, and while reading coin cells isn’t ideal, its battery life is long enough to make changing them a relatively rare hassle. With two layouts (Apple and Universal), multi-device connectivity, and a price tag of just $80, Keys-To-Go 2 feels like the Goldilocks zone for frequent travelers looking for something that’s just right for their next trip.
