The tiny Logitech Keys-To-Go 2 keyboard let me get work done almost anywhere

CNN

16 hours ago

When I recently tested the new iPad 11, I found myself fortunate enough to have the Logitech Keys-To-Go 2 keyboard on hand. Even though you can type on a tablet, its giant on-screen keyboard isn't perfect for writing more than a spare sentence or two. Yes, we love Apple's iPads, but nobody actually wants to tap out a whole paragraph – much less an email – on even the best tablet's glass screen.
But when most iPad keyboard cases cost $199 and up, some might just accept that typing comfortably with a tablet is too rich for your digits. That's where the Keys-To-Go 2 fits in, as this affordable keyboard is sized to fit in practically any bag that has room for a tablet. But since plenty of keyboards look much better on paper than they feel in hand, I've been using the Keys-To-Go 2 for months to discover what I like (and dislike) about it.
Logitech Keys-To-Go 2 Keyboard
This ultra-portable keyboard comes with its own protective cover and lets you quickly switch between three connected devices over Bluetooth. It supports iPads, iPhones and Androids, as well as Chromebooks, Macs and Windows computers. Amazingly portable design
The Keys-To-Go 2's ultimate feature is its slim dimensions, as Logitech's basically figured out the minimum viable size needed for a keyboard. Yes, bigger portable options exist, but not everyone needs their keyboard to also be their tablet's touchpad and case.
Instead, you could simply keep this keyboard in whatever bag you always throw your iPad or other tablet in, as its 7.8-ounce weight is so light you'll never realize it's in there. Packing the Keys-To-Go 2 in my bag meant I could take journaling breaks everywhere from the gym to my local coffee house, without packing my laptop and ensuring a lighter bag. That weight and its slender measurements (think about a magazine cut in half from the top side) include the Keys-To-Go 2's keyboard cover flap, a necessary perk for everyone who actually wants to keep this thing safe — and may have traveled with snacks that turned into crumbs.
While the Keys-To-Go 2's hard and soft materials feel durable, I am definitely happy it comes with the cover for added protection, as I've rarely vacuumed my backpacks. Oh, and speaking of this keyboard's materials, this is one of Logitech's many sustainable devices. The company proudly boasts that the Keys-To-Go 2 includes certified post-consumer recycled plastic, and that the Graphite model I tested is made of 36% of recycled materials.
A good typing experience and a better price
While there was a slight learning curve created by the Keys-To-Go 2's smaller size and some of its very small keys (the half-width dash and equals keys in particular), I'm amazed by how easy it has been to type on this miniature keyboard. Each key has 1 millimeter of travel, the vertical space a key moves before it sends the signal to your computer, which is just enough in my experience. I've known people who think the best keyboards should be built for 1.5mm of travel to ensure comfortable typing. And while I still agree with that, I've found that Keys-To-Go 2 typing experience is good enough — even for a whole day's work when I switched out the ergonomically-friendly Logitech Wave Keys so I could write this review at my home office.
I'd say this makes it perfect for shorter bursts of typing, say if you're at a coffee shop or waiting for your plane at the airport terminal. But don't think you're skimping on special features, as the top row of the Keys-To-Go 2 provides volume, brightness, pause/play and other controls. Logitech also provides its standard device-switching F1, F2 and F3 keys, so you can easily jump between up to three different iOS, Android, Windows or ChromeOS devices. It also supports Logitech's Smart Actions software for custom-created tricks; check out my Logitech Pop Icon Keys keyboard review for more details on that.
The quality of typing on the Keys-To-Go 2 feels perfectly aligned with its price, which has been marked down from $80 to $65 last I saw. In my time testing various keyboard cases and folios from the top manufacturers, I've noticed they often hit triple digits. For example, Apple's least-expensive keyboard case is a whopping $249. Sure, it's also a protective case and includes a touchpad, but you could buy three Keys-To-Go 2 for that much. And if you want a super-portable and affordable mouse to pair with it, check out the Logitech Pop mouse.
If you're OK with a pricier solution than the Keys-To-Go 2, Logitech just revealed a new keyboard case for Apple's iPad Air and iPad Pro called the Flip Folio. Available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, the Flip Folio packs a magnetically-attaching keyboard and can adjust between multiple angles. And at $160 for the 11-inch model and $180 for the 13-inch counterpart, it's still more affordable than most other premium keyboard cases.
Logitech Flip Folio
Designed for the iPad Air and iPad Pro, this folding case allows you to angle your iPad at the angle you prefer, and you can rotate your iPad into portrait orientation so you can use your tablet and iPhone side-by-side and switch between them with the press of a button. Practically unbelievable battery life
In my decade of writing product reviews, I don't know if I've ever seen anything with an advertised battery life of 'up to' three years, but I have now. Yes, Logitech says the Keys-To-Go 2 will outlast practically all of the other battery-powered electronics in your house, even some smoke detectors.
That said, a Logitech representative confirmed to CNN Underscored that this estimate is based on two hours of 'continuous typing' per day. You'll want to make sure to flip the power switch off when throwing the Keys-To-Go 2 in a bag, because using the built-in cover doesn't turn the keyboard off, and that flap isn't stiff enough to prevent accidental actuation. I've had my Keys-To-Go 2 since January and used it intermittently without paying attention to the power switch, and it's currently still got a full battery according to the Logitech Options+ app.
Smaller size creates a slight learning curve and possible problem
The downside of the Keys-To-Go 2's portability is that this keyboard isn't exactly built for bigger hands. Everything's a bit tight and compact here, so you might find that the keys are slightly smaller than you're used to on a regular keyboard.
Those who know their hands are a bit larger than most should probably think twice before buying in. This hasn't been a huge problem for me, as I've got what I'd call relatively medium-sized hands. Touch-typing wasn't as natural for me at first, but I adapted to it in mere hours.
An awkward design choice
The Keys-To-Go 2 doesn't recharge like your average keyboard or mouse. Instead, it's powered by a pair of CR2032 coin cell batteries that are only accessible with a T5 screwdriver. Maybe you have that 0.055-inch screwdriver, maybe you don't. Three years is enough time to find one, just keep an eye out for when the little light indicator above the delete key turns red — that's your warning sign its battery is down to 5% or less. To check its battery life beforehand, connect the Keys-To-Go 2 to a laptop or desktop, and download the Logitech Options+ app. It will show you the keyboard's current battery charge amount in the bottom left corner.
And remember: that low battery light might blink red earlier than expected if you're not being smart about the power switch. Flip it off whenever you're throwing it in a bag to go as long as you can without having to learn what CR2032 batteries and T5 screwdrivers look like.
I've become a big fan of the Keys-To-Go 2 in my months testing it, to the point where I've actually caught myself singing 'L-O-G-I, Keys, To Go!' to the tune of Chappell Roan's 'Hot To Go!' Not only is it a great portable keyboard for the iPad, but it also worked well for me when it was time to write the majority of this review at home.
That said, much like the iPad itself, it's not for everyone. Those with bigger hands should definitely look elsewhere, and those who would rather get the convenience of a self-charging case should consider one of Apple's many options. But for the vast majority of tablet owners, the Keys-To-Go 2 might be the perfect keyboard accessory that works great both at home and, yes, on the go.
What colors does the Logitech Keys-To-Go 2 keyboard come in?
What colors does the Logitech Keys-To-Go 2 keyboard come in?
Logitech sells the Keys-To-Go 2 keyboard in three color options. I tested the Graphite model, which is mostly black and gray. There's also a Pale Gray model that you might call white, and the third option is a purple design Logitech calls Lilac.
What devices is the Logitech Keys-To-Go 2 keyboard compatible with?
What devices is the Logitech Keys-To-Go 2 keyboard compatible with?
Nearly every kind of computing device that you can think of that supports Bluetooth. Logitech lists iPads, iPhones, Android phones and tablets, Macs, PCs, Chromebooks and Windows devices. That said, I'd bet it also works with Linux machines as well.
How thin is the Logitech Keys-To-Go 2 keyboard?
How thin is the Logitech Keys-To-Go 2 keyboard?
The Keys-To-Go 2 features a tapered design that is 0.17 inches on the front of the keyboard and 0.35 inches at the rear.
CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test all the products in our testing guides, and we take keyboards just as seriously as we do laptops and all other tech. Without keyboards, we couldn't get anything done, so we know you need a great one. We're made up of a skilled team of editors and writers who provide full transparency about our testing methodology for our product reviews. Electronics writer Henry T. Casey has been testing gadgets, including tablets and laptops, for more than a decade, having tried everything from the chunkiest kids' tablet to the priciest iPad Pro.