If you’re after a minimalistic chiclet keyboard, then the Logitech MX Keys Mini is likely your best bet since it has a wide compatibility, not to mention that it’s far from bare bones. But then there’s the Logitech K380 that fits the bill too, and even though it doesn’t have as many features, it’s available at a lower price tag.
In this Logitech K380 vs MX Keys Mini comparison, we highlight what sets apart one keyboard from the other. That way, we can hopefully help you make a more informed buying decision.
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Logitech MX Keys Mini vs K380 Comparison Chart
| Model | Logitech MX Keys Mini | Logitech K380 |
 |  | |
| Price | Check Price at Logitech.com | Check Price at Logitech.com |
| Key Switches | Scissor | Scissor |
| Backlit | Yes | No |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Logi Bolt USB Receiver (sold separately) | Bluetooth |
| Multi-Device Connection | Yes, up to 3 devices | Yes, up to 3 devices |
| Battery | Rechargeable, up to 5 months or 10 days with backlighting on | 2 x AAA, up to 24 months |
| Charging | USB-A to USB-C | n/a |
| Compatibility | Windows, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, macOS, iOS, iPadOS | Windows, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, macOS, iOS, iPadOS |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 11.65″ x 5.19″ x 0.82″ | 10.98″ x 4.88″ x 0.63″ |
| Weight | 1.11 lbs | 0.93 lbs |
| Colors | Pale Gray, Rose, Graphite, Black | Rose, Black, Off-White, Blue |
Design and Build
From an aesthetic perspective, the two look similar, but the Logitech MX Keys Mini looks more premium than the Logitech K380.
As compact keyboards, the Logitech MX Keys Mini and the Logitech K380 have a small footprint, but the latter is slightly more portable, weighing 0.93 lbs and measuring 10.98” x 4.88” x 0.63” in width, height and depth, respectively. That’s as opposed to 1.11 lbs and 11.65” x 5.19” x 0.82”.
However, the MX Keys Mini has a feature that tilts the scales to its favor: backlit keys. It even has a proximity sensor that allows it to automatically light up when you place your hand near it. Speaking of, it also has ambient light sensors that let it adjust the brightness level based on lighting conditions. Just to be clear, the K380 doesn’t have backlighting.
Both are made from plastic, but the MX Keys Mini has a sort of metallic finish to it that makes it appear more premium in comparison. The inscriptions on each of its keycaps also won’t fade away since they aren’t printed on them, unlike the case with the K380.
Usage and Compatibility
The Logitech MX Keys Mini and Logitech K380 are compatible across most popular platforms, including Windows, Linux and macOS.
Both keyboards are well-spaced, so you shouldn’t have that much trouble finding the right keys most of the time. In this regard, the Logitech MX Keys Mini does take things up a notch with indents on its keys, which can reduce typos overall because of how it helps you feel for the center of each one better.
Also, they sit at an angle, and as far as ergonomics go, they’re decent enough that your hands shouldn’t cramp up even after typing for a while. Neither comes with a wrist rest, but that shouldn’t be a problem either since they have a low profile.
The two use scissor key switches as well, and typically, these have short key travel. Both are quiet too, making them excellent picks for work environments. On that note, neither one is suited for gaming because of their high latency. The delay on the MX Keys Mini can be reduced by connecting via the Logi Bolt USB Receiver instead of Bluetooth, but despite that, it still won’t be responsive enough.
Compatibility-wise, both are the same. They play nicely across platforms, namely Windows, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, macOS, iOS and iPadOS.
Click here for our Logitech MX Keys Mini vs Apple Magic Keyboard comparison.
Battery and Other Features
The Logitech MX Keys uses a rechargeable battery, while the Logitech K380 uses two AAA batteries.
Under the hood, the Logitech MX Keys Mini keyboard has a rechargeable battery. With a full charge, it’s good for up to five months, but with backlighting on, it’s rated to go for up to only 10 days. On the other hand, the Logitech K380 can last up to a whopping 24 months, but it uses two AAA batteries, so unless you get the rechargeable kind, you’ll have to replace it from time to time.
Both use Logitech Options, allowing you to remap a few of their keys. You can save multiple profiles on the MX Keys Mini, but you can’t on the K380.
In addition, the two can be paired with up to three devices at a time. You can switch between platforms in a snap using the keys F1 to F3, and you can even transfer files from one device to another.
Verdict
Without a doubt, the Logitech MX Keys Mini is better, but the Logitech K380 has its appeal for being similar yet more affordable.
From a technical standpoint, the Logitech MX Keys Mini is better across the board. It features backlit keys, a rechargeable battery and the option to go with a 2.4 GHz connection instead of Bluetooth, and most importantly, it offers a better typing experience overall. But that doesn’t necessarily mean the Logitech K380 doesn’t have its place. After all, it’s similar in a lot of ways, from the scissor key switches to its minimalistic and compact design, and on top of that, it’s easier on the budget too.
FAQs
Yes, the Logitech MX Keys Mini is a chiclet keyboard with a wide range of compatibility, as it works with Windows, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, macOS, iOS and iPadOS. It also has nifty features such as backlit keys.
The manual for the Logitech MX Keys Mini is included in the box.
Yes, there’s a Logitech MX Keys Mini variant specifically made for Mac, which has a different layout that includes command and option keys.
The main differences are that the Logitech MX Keys Mini has rechargeable batteries and backlit keys, and it can be used with a USB receiver besides Bluetooth. It also provides a better typing experience than the Logitech K380 because of its circular indents.