Logitech has launched its Alto Keys K98M mechanical keyboard in North America. Priced at $149.99, this keyboard features a compact 1800-layout design with a number pad. The standout feature is that you can swap out the key switches, making it customizable for enthusiasts. It also has an internal gasket mount that softens the typing experience—a thoughtful touch for casual and serious users alike.
The keyboard has a two-piece plastic design, combining a translucent top with an opaque bottom that matches the included keycaps. You can choose from color combinations like white, graphite, and lavender, all with white backlighting and durable shine-through PBT keycaps. Logitech claims the battery can last up to 12 months when the backlight is off, and it connects via Bluetooth or Logi Bolt. It works well with various operating systems, including Windows and macOS.
After testing the K98M, I find it visually appealing and pleasant to type on. The airy design, especially in lavender, gives it a unique look. Plus, the customizable switches allow you to personalize the feel and sound, making it suitable for different typing preferences.
However, the software could use improvement. Logitech’s Logi Options Plus app is user-friendly but limits customization. You can only change the alternate functions of 12 function keys, while cheaper keyboards often offer more flexible software solutions.
In terms of sound, the K98M doesn’t have the loudness of some enthusiast boards. Instead, it provides a light, clacky sound that shouldn’t be disruptive in most settings. Its marble switches are smooth and require just enough force to feel satisfying without being too heavy. The UniCushion gasket beneath provides flex but keeps a firm feel, which strikes a nice balance.
Some keyboard enthusiasts may look elsewhere. At $150, the K98M competes with quality options from smaller brands like Epomaker and Keychron, which often offer better materials and more extensive software features. Yet, the Alto Keys K98M is a refreshing addition to Logitech’s lineup, and it indicates a potential shift towards more enthusiast-friendly designs.
In closing, this keyboard is a step in an interesting direction for Logitech. It would be exciting to see more products like the Alto Keys K75M, which focuses on a compact layout without the number pad, appealing to an even broader audience.
For more detailed specifications, you can check Logitech’s official page here.
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