Logitech K830 TV – Bluetooth keyboard/trackpad for HTPC (review)

Logitech’s K830 TV illuminated living-room Bluetooth keyboard and trackpad works with almost all Bluetooth equipped Windows, Android, Chrome and even some macOS and iOS devices.

Logitech has two models of the K830 but only one comes with Bluetooth – the K830 TV, not the K830 that only uses the Logitech Unifying USB receiver.

Or so I found when wanting to connect and older K830 I had to several Bluetooth devices – no cigar. Then I stumbled on a Logitech support page that made it clear.

To determine if your keyboard is the Bluetooth version, please check the icon on the del key.

The Bluetooth version displays the Bluetooth logo. The original K830 keyboard displays the PC power. You can read GadgetGuy’s review of the original here.

Glad we cleared that up – so if you need the Bluetooth version get your retailer to order the K830 TV and check the logo before taking delivery.

Details – K830 TV Illuminated Living-Room keyboard

Out of the Box

  • The keyboard
  • Unifying USB receiver (for non-Bluetooth devices)
  • USB-A to micro-USB charge cable (charger not supplied)
  • USB-A male to USB-A female extension cable (to better position the USB receiver)

Initial impressions

First, the design reflects Logitech’s style direction – slimline, svelte, and suitable for office or the coffee table.

Second, it is subtly and smartly backlit – great for lounge room use at night.

Third, it has amazing compatibility with almost any Bluetooth device as well as any USB device – Windows, smart TVs, Android, Chrome and some macOS and iOS devices.

Typing speed

It is meant as a portable, rechargeable, living room-based keyboard/touchpad. In a typing speed test, it scored 80% of my best speed with its island-style keys – a close set, compact design. There was no keyboard flex or key bounce that is typical of thin keyboards.

Smart backlight

A sensor detects the amount of light in the room and automatically dims or brightens the backlight.

Type and the keys illuminate. Stop typing, and the backlight turns off after 7 seconds to save power.

Rechargeable battery

Logitech claims ten days use (2 hours a day) after three hours charge. In tests, I got three-four weeks of occasional.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth Smart LE Range is 10 metres. It only pairs to one device at a time – no multipoint as is becoming popular. But pairing is very easy to so, so this is not an issue.

I tested it on several devices (as long as it supports HID – human Interface Device ) it should work.

  • Android TV – Sony
  • Laser Android 4K TV set top box (USB and Bluetooth)
  • Android Tablet – Samsung Galaxy Tab
  • Android smartphone -Samsung Galaxy Note 8
  • Windows 10 – Samsung Galaxy Book and Surface Pro 2017 – it is especially handy for the new USB-C only devices
  • MacBook Pro 2017
  • Pixel Chromebook
  • Telstra Roku device

A keyboard and touchpad work wonders on most TVs compared to an imprecise remote. It is even better for typing in passwords for Netflix et al.

Specifications

  • Size/Weight: 125.3 (H) x 367 (W) x 16.5mm (D) x 495g
  • Touchpad: (included in dimensions above) 52 x 80mm
  • Wireless Unifying receiver: 2.4GHz (will not interfere with Router) or Bluetooth Smart LE (V.4 or higher)
  • Life: 5 million keystrokes
  • Range: 10m
  • Backlight: smart illumination
  • Cables: 130cm USB-A to micro-USB charger and 150cm USB-A male to USB-A female extender
  • Special keys: Mute, Volume up/down
  • Colour: Black Matte
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Manual: Click here

GadgetGuy’s take

I own two of the USB only models for HTPC (smart TV and media centre use) – they have given excellent service. I have found no other brands/models that come close to their functionality (keyboard and trackpad) or quality.

But with the addition of Bluetooth it has become a real HTPC keyboard, it is a great addition to the lounge with a great trackpad, subtle backlighting, and Logitech quality.

At GadgetGuy we increasingly use this Bluetooth keyboard for testing the new USB-C only devices.

I am impressed with the device’s preciseness on an Android TV and tablets – yes, using a trackpad beats a remote control.

Price

$149.95 – for either version. Online prices can be up to 30% less.

It may be best to take this article with you if you want to get a Bluetooth version.

Logitech K830 Keyboard
Overall
8.8
Features
10
Value for money
10
Performance
8
Ease of Use
8
Design
8
Reader Rating1 Vote
9.6
Positives
Amazing combined Bluetooth keyboard and trackpad works on so many devices
Negatives
no-multipoint for multiple devices
8.8