Magic Keyboard vs MX Keys S: Best for MacBook?

When you set up a MacBook with an external monitor in clamshell mode, you need an external keyboard. The two obvious choices: Apple’s Magic Keyboard or Logitech’s MX Keys S.

Both are low-profile, both look good on a desk, and both cost about $100. But they’re built for very different users.

Specs at a Glance

Spec	Apple Magic Keyboard	Logitech MX Keys S
Price	$99 (base) / $199 (Touch ID)	$109
Backlight	No (base model)	Yes (proximity sensor)
Charging	USB-C	USB-C
Battery Life	~1 month	~10 days (backlight on)
Multi-device	No (1 device)	Yes (3 devices)
Touch ID	Optional ($199)	No
Key Profile	Flat low-profile	Spherically dished

Apple Magic Keyboard — $99

You know this keyboard. It’s the same layout as your MacBook’s built-in keyboard, which means zero learning curve. Lightning or USB-C charging (depending on the version), instant Bluetooth pairing with any Mac, and the thinnest profile of any keyboard on the market.

What’s good:

• Identical feel to MacBook keyboard — no adjustment period
• Instant pairing with Mac — just plug in USB-C once and it’s paired forever
• Touch ID version ($199) lets you unlock your Mac and approve purchases
• Thin, light, beautiful

What’s not:

• No backlighting on the base model ($99)
• Only connects to one device — no multi-device switching
• The low-profile keys feel mushy after extended typing sessions
• $199 for the Touch ID version is steep

Logitech MX Keys S — $109

Check price on Amazon (paid link)

The MX Keys S is Logitech’s answer to the Magic Keyboard, and in many ways it’s better. Backlit keys that light up when your hands approach. Spherically dished key caps that guide your fingers. Smart Actions that automate repetitive tasks. And — the killer feature — multi-device switching between three computers with a button.

What’s good:

• Backlit keys with proximity sensor — light up when you reach for the keyboard
• Spherically dished keys feel better for extended typing
• Connect to 3 devices simultaneously and switch with a button
• Works with Mac, Windows, iPad, Chrome — everything
• USB-C rechargeable, 10 days battery with backlight on
• Programmable keys and Smart Actions via Logi Options+

What’s not:

• Slightly thicker and heavier than Magic Keyboard
• Bluetooth pairing isn’t as seamless as Apple’s (you’ll need the Logi Bolt receiver for best reliability)
• No Touch ID equivalent
• Logi Options+ software is required for customization — it’s fine, but it’s another app

The Typing Feel

This is subjective, but here’s our take after months with both: the MX Keys S is more comfortable for long typing sessions. The spherically dished key caps cradle your fingertips, and there’s slightly more key travel than the Magic Keyboard. The Magic Keyboard feels precise but flat.

If you type for hours daily — writing, coding, emails — the MX Keys S wins on comfort. If you just need a keyboard for light use and want the MacBook-identical feel, the Magic Keyboard is familiar.

Our Verdict

Get the Magic Keyboard if you only use a Mac, you want the thinnest possible keyboard, and you value Apple ecosystem integration (especially Touch ID at $199).

Get the Logitech MX Keys S if you use multiple devices, you type for hours daily, you want backlighting, or you’re on a budget (it’s only $10 more than the base Magic Keyboard but includes backlighting).

For most MacBook desk setups, the MX Keys S at $109 is the better buy. Multi-device switching alone makes it worth it — and the typing experience is genuinely better for sustained use.