Logitech Alto Keys K98M Mechanical Keyboard Overview
The Logitech Alto Keys K98M is a mechanical keyboard that incorporates a vibration-absorbing cushioned gasket design and hot-swappable switches. Positioned as a successor to Logitech's MX Mechanical Keyboard, it is available for $119.99.
Design and Aesthetics
The K98M is available in three distinct color variations: dark graphite, off-white, and lilac. Each variant features a contrasting space bar and Enter key for a visually striking aesthetic.
The dark graphite and off-white versions contain higher percentages of recycled plastic (25% and 19% respectively) compared to the lilac variant (10%).
The keyboard measures 1.6 by 15.8 by 5.8 inches (HWD) and weighs 2.43 pounds.
Keyboard Layout
The K98M features a 98-key layout, which notably includes a numeric keypad. However, it omits the traditional six-key cluster (Insert, Delete, Home, End, Page Up, Page Down) found above the cursor arrow keys on many full-sized keyboards.
The four keys above the keypad are labeled Home, End, Page Up, and Page Down. The Home key also functions as a Delete key. To access the standard Home function, it must be combined with the Fn key.
A dedicated Home key for navigation requires turning off Num Lock and utilizing the 7 key on the keypad, a change managed through an on-screen pop-up.
Features and Connectivity
The keyboard's underside includes two pop-out feet for typing angle adjustment. It also features a convenient slot for the Logi Bolt USB-A wireless receiver, which can also connect a Logitech mouse.
Connectivity options include Logi Bolt and Bluetooth, allowing seamless switching between up to three devices using the F1 through F3 keys.
The Alto Keys supports both Mac and Windows modes, activated by holding Fn+O or P respectively. It is also compatible with Linux, ChromeOS, iOS, and Android operating systems.
Power and Backlighting
The K98M comes with a USB-C-to-A cable for charging its internal battery.
A four-hour charge provides approximately 12 months of battery life when the white backlight is deactivated.
The F4 key controls seven levels of backlight brightness, which is visible through the PBT keycaps' stencil-style legends.
Switches and Typing Experience
The K98M features a UniCushion full-frame gasket mount with internal padding designed to reduce vibration for a smoother typing experience.
It utilizes marble linear switches, which require 40 grams of force, actuate at 1.9mm, and have a total travel of 3.2mm. These switches are rated for 50 million keystrokes, ensuring long-term durability.
The keyboard supports hot-swappable 3- or 5-pin high-profile mechanical switches, though keycap and switch pullers are not included. The linear switches provide a smooth, precise feel suitable for light, rapid typing, producing a quiet, ticky sound.
Software Customization
The Logi Options+ software allows for extensive customization of the F4 through F12, End, Page Up, and Page Down keys. Users can remap these keys to various shortcuts, including launching applications or performing predefined commands.
The software also offers "Smart actions," which are cloud-stored macros for automating tasks. Examples include "meeting mode" (launching Zoom and Notepad simultaneously) or "social media break" (opening Instagram, YouTube, and WhatsApp tabs). Key assignments can be saved per application.
The software does not, however, allow customization of complex keystrokes like Ctrl+F10.