The Logitech Signature Slim Solar+ K980 introduces a groundbreaking feature to the world of sleek office keyboards: an integrated solar panel. This innovative design, combined with an internal battery, means this keyboard can potentially run for years – even a decade – without ever needing a recharge. While a perpetual battery might not be the top priority for every PC gamer, its convenience is undeniable.
Naturally, multi-year battery endurance isn’t usually at the top of a gamer’s checklist for high-performance keyboards. However, for everyday use, this feature offers incredible peace of mind. We put Logitech’s latest offering through its paces, and while a few weeks can’t truly test a 10-year battery claim, Logitech’s companion software provided real-time insights into the solar panel’s impressive ability to keep the keyboard fully charged.
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Specs
| Logitech Signature Slim Solar+ K980 specs | |
| Dimensions (mm) | 430 x 141 x 16 (W x D x H) |
| Weight | 707g |
| Format | Full-size |
| Connection | 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth |
| Switch type | Scissor |
| Switch life | Not stated |
| Backlighting | No |
| Extras | USB-C wireless dongle |
Design and Features
The Logitech Signature Slim Solar+ K980 inherits the sleek, minimalist aesthetic seen in Logitech’s popular MX Keys series. Its uniform gray finish, slim profile, and gently rounded corners give it an elegant appearance that blends seamlessly into any modern workspace. The integrated solar panel along the top edge is a subtle addition, not detracting from its overall sophisticated look. While it might be too understated for a vibrant, RGB-laden gaming setup, it certainly holds its own in a more subdued environment.
However, one notable absence, especially for gamers, is key backlighting. This omission is a key differentiator from the MX Keys line. In well-lit conditions, usability is unaffected, but in a dimly lit or dark room, the keys become illegible – a definite drawback for nocturnal gaming sessions. The key legends themselves are screen-printed, a common practice for this style of keyboard. While functional, this method is theoretically more susceptible to wear over time compared to more durable methods like double-shot or dye-sublimated legends found on many premium gaming keyboards.
Measuring less than 10mm for most of its body, the K980 features a thicker 16mm section at the rear, which creates a comfortable typing angle. Unlike most keyboards, this angle is fixed, meaning no flip-down feet for adjustment. Personally, I found this low-angle design to be quite agreeable.
Stability is provided by six small rubber feet, preventing any unwanted sliding. The only other external feature is a simple sliding power switch on the back edge. With its self-charging battery, there’s no need for a USB charging port or a separate battery compartment, contributing to its seamless design. While the rechargeable battery isn’t user-serviceable, Logitech’s impressive 10-year lifespan claim means you won’t be worrying about replacements anytime soon.
The keyboard boasts a standard full-size layout, with the review unit featuring a UK ISO configuration. Located in the top-right corner are four convenient dedicated keys for calendar, mic mute, camera off, and PC lock functions. To their left, three additional buttons facilitate seamless switching between connected devices. The K980 supports up to three Bluetooth connections simultaneously, including Logitech’s universal wireless dongles. For even greater efficiency, Logitech’s software allows for cross-device copy-pasting between systems with the software installed.
Both Windows and Mac legends are screen-printed on the keys, making this an excellent choice for users who frequently switch between different operating systems – perhaps a MacBook for work and a PC for gaming. The top row of F-keys offers a secondary set of functions like screen brightness and media controls, which can be toggled using the Fn key or configured via Logitech’s intuitive software.
Performance
The K980’s build quality is solid. While a slight flex is noticeable if twisted firmly, it remains perfectly stable on a desk thanks to its full-length front edge and rear foot. The typing experience is, frankly, excellent. Keys offer a crisp, responsive feel with just the right amount of resistance and a distinct tactile break, without ever feeling overly stiff.
Logitech has opted for laptop-style scissor switches, which, while generally not matching the extreme longevity of mechanical switches, typically outperform standard full-size rubber dome keyboards. However, for exceptionally heavy typists – those who spend hours daily writing thousands of words and gaming – these scissor switches might show signs of wear before the acclaimed 10-year battery life is truly tested. In our experience, scissor switch keyboards can sometimes lose responsiveness within a year or two under intense usage, whereas some mechanical keyboards endure for over a decade. Logitech hasn’t specified a keyswitch lifespan, but for most users, this shouldn’t be a significant concern.
Battery Life
The K980’s standout feature is undeniably its incredible battery life. While Logitech hasn’t disclosed the battery’s capacity, they confidently state it can endure four months of use in complete darkness. The magic truly happens in the light: its solar panel continuously recharges the battery, allowing it to function for an astonishing 10 years – and potentially even longer, according to Logitech’s official figures.
For those curious about the charging requirements, Logitech specifies that the keyboard will charge in anything above 200 lux. In practical terms, even a modest desk lamp with a 2W/200 lumen bulb or a 5W/450 lumen ceiling light aimed at the keyboard provides ample energy. A mere hint of ambient sunlight in a room is more than sufficient to keep it topped up.
Price
Priced at $99.99 / £99.99, the Logitech Signature Slim Solar+ K980 sits in the premium, but not exorbitant, category. Given its unique solar-charging capabilities and virtually endless battery life, this price point feels highly justifiable. However, the absence of backlighting and the reliance on standard screen-printed key legends do slightly detract from its overall value proposition.
Verdict
I’ve largely become a convert to the Logitech Signature Slim Solar+ K980. For someone like myself, who spends the vast majority of their time at a computer typing, the sheer effortlessness of this keyboard is a major draw. Once the dongle is connected, or Bluetooth is paired, you can simply forget about cables and charging. It’s always ready, in its slim, portable, and elegant form.
Its seamless device switching, practical secondary key functions, and Logitech’s exceptional Options+ software further enhance its utility as a top-tier productivity tool. However, it’s important to set expectations for gaming. This keyboard offers no specific gaming features, lacking ultra-fast responsiveness, dedicated gaming buttons, or advanced analog capabilities. These omissions are, however, entirely expected for an office-focused peripheral.
My primary criticisms revolve around the absence of key backlighting, the screen-printed legends, and the key action itself. While the typing experience is generally excellent, my extensive typing often leads me to prefer lighter-feeling keyboards to avoid aggravating RSI. The K980’s keys, though far from heavy, aren’t as light as high-quality linear mechanical switches, and their shorter travel means more frequent bottoming out compared to a full-size mechanical board.
Ultimately, the Logitech Signature Slim Solar+ K980 is a remarkable keyboard for productivity, offering unparalleled convenience through its solar charging. Its value for dedicated gamers is limited, but for everyday use and multi-device setups, it truly shines.