Logitech's K480 Bluetooth keyboard can be paired with up to three devices at once

[Shawn Knight]

Selecting the right keyboard for a particular task can be frustrating. For example, what might be desirable for your desktop probably wouldn’t be the best option for a mobile device and vice-versa. Logitech’s latest keyboard, however, claims to be suited for virtually any job you throw at it.

The Logitech Bluetooth Multi-Device Keyboard K480 (that’s a mouthful) can be used with up to three different Bluetooth-enabled devices. The secret sauce behind the multitasking marvel is the Easy-Switch dial. With it, users can seamlessly toggle between connected devices on-the-fly.

Because it works over Bluetooth, you’ll need to be within 30 feet or so of the device you wish to control. Even still, it should work fine with your home theater PC although with no trackpad, it’d probably be best suited for desktop / smartphone / tablet usage. There’s even a built-in stand that can hold your phone or tablet as you type and shortcut keys for some of the more common tasks across various platforms.

The board draws power from a couple of AAA batteries that Logitech claims will last up to two years under regular use. Specifically, it’ll be compatible with Windows 7 / Windows 8 PCs, Mac OS X, Chrome OS, iPads and iPhones running iOS 5 or later and Android handsets and tablets running version 3.2 or newer.

The Logitech Bluetooth Multi-Device Keyboard K480 will be offered in black or white. Expect to see it hit retail in the US and Europe later this month priced at $49.99.

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https://www.techspot.com/news/57951-logitechs-k480-bluetooth-keyboard-can-be-paired-with-up-to-three-devices-at-once.html

 

[VitalyT]

Half-hearted solution. I'm sitting in an office where I have to use a USB-only keyboard for my desktop, a Bluetooth one for my iPad and a Wi-Fi one for my laptop.

I am dying for a keyboard that I could just share and switch between such devices.

Now why on earth couldn't they implement multiple interfaces? Ok, the hell with Wi-Fi, but at least USB must be present along with Bluetooth. Why, Logitech, why???!!!!

 

[Uncle Al]

It's certainly a great idea and long over due. The only thing them need to make sure of is it will drive a wireless or wired mouse too! That would certainly help cut down on some of these KVM switches we have around here!

 

[Skidmarksdeluxe]

Half-hearted solution. I'm sitting in an office where I have to use a USB-only keyboard for my desktop, a Bluetooth one for my iPad and a Wi-Fi one for my laptop.

I am dying for a keyboard that I could just share and switch between such devices.

Now why on earth couldn't they implement multiple interfaces? Ok, the hell with Wi-Fi, but at least USB must be present along with Bluetooth. Why, Logitech, why???!!!!

Allow me to advise you on better and cheaper solutions:

Desktop PC - Buy a cheap bluetooth dongle, plug it into an open usb port, then you can use a bluetooth keyboard.
iPad - This is very easy and self explanatory. Get rid of it, FAST! Get an Android or Windows device.
Laptop - Pull it closer to you and use it's accompanying keyboard, it is portable.
Mobile phone - Download SwiftKey.

No need to thank me but I do accept Visa, Mastercard and Diners Club cards as well as EFT and cash. NO cheques (checks).

 

[tobeportable]

Consider the Aten CS533 which lets you keep your actual keyboard and mouse for the same purpose.
Haven't tried it yet but seems way more flexible.
Just needs to have audio too ... ; )