Logitech Reinvigorates Solar Keyboard Lineup with Signature Slim Solar Plus K980
Logitech is making a significant return to the solar-powered keyboard market, unveiling the new Signature Slim Solar Plus K980. This innovative peripheral, launching today, marks the company's first foray into solar keyboards in over a decade, building on the legacy of its earlier K760 model. The K980 distinguishes itself by relying solely on light for power, eliminating the need for USB charging ports or replaceable batteries. Priced at $99.99, this keyboard promises an extended lifespan and a more sustainable approach to computing accessories.
Harnessing the Power of Light
The core innovation of the Signature Slim Solar Plus K980 lies in its ability to convert ambient light – whether from the sun or artificial sources – into power. Logitech states that the keyboard requires a minimum of 200 lux to charge its internal battery. Once fully charged, the company claims the battery can last for an impressive 10 years, and the keyboard can operate in complete darkness for up to four months. This eliminates the common user frustration of dead batteries or the constant search for charging cables.
Interestingly, while Logitech's marketing images might suggest otherwise, the solar cell itself doesn't illuminate. The charging mechanism is more subtle, working continuously in the background. This focus on perpetual power is a significant shift, aligning with a growing trend towards eco-friendly and low-maintenance technology.
User-Replaceable Battery and iFixIt Partnership
A key concern with many modern devices is the non-replaceable nature of their batteries. Logitech has addressed this proactively with the K980. A spokesperson confirmed to The Verge that the battery is "safely user-replaceable," thanks to its casing. Furthermore, Logitech is collaborating with iFixIt to supply spare parts, a move that champions repairability and extends the product's overall lifespan. This partnership is a welcome development for consumers who value sustainability and the ability to service their own devices.
Feature-Rich Design with AI Integration
Beyond its unique power source, the K980 boasts a robust feature set. It offers a standard full-size keyboard layout, complete with directional keys and a numpad, and features keycaps for both Windows and macOS operating systems. The function row is pre-programmed for common media controls, screen brightness, and volume adjustments, with the flexibility to customize these functions or disable them entirely via the Logi Options Plus app for Windows and macOS.
Notably, the K980 includes dedicated keys for mic mute and camera on/off, catering to the modern remote work environment. A standout addition is the AI Launch key. This key is designed to streamline AI interactions, defaulting to launching Microsoft Copilot on Windows or Google Gemini on ChromeOS. Users can further customize this key through the Logi Options Plus app to open other AI tools like ChatGPT or AI prompt builders, or even assign custom "Smart Actions" for complex macros. The Action Key, along with others, can also be programmed for these shortcuts, offering a high degree of personalization.
Connectivity and Smart Indicators
The K980 supports seamless connectivity, allowing users to pair with up to three Bluetooth devices and switch between them effortlessly. It also offers compatibility with Logitech's Bolt USB transmitter for enhanced security and a more stable connection, though the transmitter is not included in the box.
While older solar models like the K750 featured visual LED indicators to signal charging status, the K980 takes a more streamlined approach. Its power LED simply changes from green to red when the battery needs more charge. To get a precise reading on ambient light levels and battery status, users will need to install the Logi Options Plus application. This reliance on software for detailed power management might be a point of contention for some users, but it does provide a clear indicator within the app itself.
A Growing Trend in Ambient Power
The re-emergence of solar-powered peripherals in 2025 is noteworthy. Logitech isn't alone in this trend; Lenovo recently launched its own $99.99 self-charging wireless keyboard, first showcased at CES 2025. While the Lenovo keyboard reportedly offers features like adjustable tilt legs and spill resistance, the K980 appears to focus more on deep customization and its unique light-charging technology. The absence of a USB-C charging port on the K980, unlike its Lenovo competitor, underscores Logitech's commitment to a truly light-powered experience.
The Logitech Signature Slim Solar Plus K980 represents a compelling blend of sustainability, convenience, and modern functionality. Its ability to operate without traditional charging methods, coupled with its AI integration and user-repairable battery, positions it as an interesting option for environmentally conscious consumers and productivity enthusiasts alike.
