When Logitech released its new ergonomic keyboard, the Wave Keys, and heavily promoted it, some of us at senses.se noted the re-emergence of a familiar trend. Having observed the evolution of keyboard technology over the years, we recall the significant rise of ergonomic keyboards in the 90s, spearheaded by Microsoft with their initial offering in 1994.
While ergonomic keyboards haven’t achieved mainstream dominance (a point we’ll explore further), the Wave Keys piqued our interest, prompting us to evaluate its potential for enhanced user comfort.
As someone who spends considerable time working at a computer, and with the flexibility of working from home, I’ve personally invested in the Logitech MX Keys. We also recently reviewed the MX Mechanical. It’s somewhat surprising that individuals and companies often prioritize cost savings on keyboards, considering the extensive hours spent interacting with them.
First Impression – Wave Keys
Upon unboxing the Wave Keys, its compact form factor stands out compared to conventional keyboards. The initial impression is that the materials have a slightly plastic feel.
The setup process is straightforward, offering connectivity via the included Logi BOLT receiver or Bluetooth. A notable feature is the ability to seamlessly connect and switch between three devices (PC, Mac, or iPad) with a dedicated button.
Logitech’s commitment to environmental responsibility is commendable; the Wave Keys incorporates recycled plastic in its construction (61% for the graphite version and 46% for the off-white).
Logitech estimates a battery life of up to three years using the included AAA batteries, which is a significant advantage.
Ultimately, the crucial aspect of any keyboard is its typing experience. How does the Wave Keys perform?
In terms of typing comfort, the Wave Keys is excellent, providing a comfortable experience for the hands. The integrated, padded wrist rest is a welcome addition, and the device switching functionality is convenient.
A challenge I encountered, even after two weeks of use, is working within Excel, a critical application for my work. The absence of a full-size keyboard with a more conventional layout makes efficient use of the arrow keys more difficult.
The included Logi Options+ software allows for easy customization of several keys (F4-F12, home, end, page up, page down). For example, F5 can be programmed to launch Word.
The limited adoption of ergonomic keyboards likely stems from the highly individual nature of hand anatomy, making it challenging to create a universally suitable design. This probably explains why the standard keyboard remains the dominant choice. Personal testing is essential to determine compatibility.
Conclusion – Logitech Wave Keys
In summary, the Wave Keys is a compelling option. Its ergonomic design suits my hands well, and it offers versatile connectivity. The price point is reasonable, especially considering the included padded wrist rest. The primary drawbacks are the somewhat cramped key spacing and the slightly plastic feel of the materials.
Logitech provided review units for this evaluation. The provision of review samples does not influence our editorial independence. Our reviews are conducted independently, with a focus on providing objective assessments for our readers and consumers.
