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The Windows logo key is the keyboard key marked with the Windows symbol. Press it by itself to open or close the Start menu; press it with another key to use Windows shortcuts. It is a physical keyboard key, not a Windows product key or activation code.
What the Windows logo key does
Microsoft documents two basic uses: pressing the key alone opens or closes Start, while combining it with other keys performs common tasks more quickly. Shortcut behavior can vary by Windows version, settings, supported hardware, or the app in use.
Where to find it on a keyboard
Look for a key bearing the Windows symbol. Keyboard layouts differ, so its exact position is not universal. If you cannot identify it, check the keyboard’s layout or documentation rather than relying on a fixed position.
Common Windows logo key shortcuts
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
| Windows key | Opens or closes Start. |
| Windows key + E | Opens File Explorer. |
| Windows key + I | Opens Settings. |
| Windows key + R | Opens Run. |
| Windows key + D | Displays or hides the desktop. |
These combinations are listed in Microsoft’s Windows keyboard shortcuts reference and Windows keyboard tips and tricks. Microsoft notes that shortcuts may vary by application, and some depend on settings or device support, so not every combination works in every context.
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#1 Best Overall
Logitech MX Keys S Wireless Keyboard Low Profile Fluid Precise - Graphite
- Fluid Typing Experience: Laptop-like profile with spherically-dished keys shaped for your fingertips delivers a fast, fluid, precise and quieter typing experience
- Automate Repetitive Tasks: Easily create and share time-saving Smart Actions shortcuts to perform multiple actions with a single keystroke with the Logi Options+ app (1)
- Smarter Illumination: Backlit keyboard keys light up as your hands approach and adapt to the environment; Now with more lighting customizations on Logi Options+ (1)
- More Comfort, Deeper Focus: Work for longer with a solid build, low-profile design and an optimum keyboard angle that is better for your wrist posture
- Multi-Device, Multi OS Bluetooth Keyboard: Pair with up to 3 devices on nearly any operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Googlebook OS) via Bluetooth Low Energy or included Logi Bolt USB receiver (2)
Windows logo key vs. Windows product key
The Windows logo key is a physical key on a keyboard. A Windows product key is a separate 25-character code used for activation. Microsoft explains product keys in its guide to finding a Windows product key.
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Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard - Tonal Graphite
- Defy Boring: With a slim design, multiple colors and smarter tech, this Bluetooth keyboard from the Pebble 2 Collection lets you express your vibe and make your statement
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- Easily Hop Across 3 Devices: Use Bluetooth to connect up to 3 wireless devices across OSs (Windows, macOS, iPadOS, ChromeOS), and switch between them with one click of the Easy-Switch buttons
- Save Time: Get instant access to search, screen capture, the emoji menu and more with Fn shortcut keys; personalize the 10 Fn keys with Logi Options plus app (2) so you can do things your way
- Feel-Good Typing at Your Fingertips: The Pebble Keys 2 K380s Quiet Keyboard comes with scooped round keys and a familiar, laptop-like typing experience for effortless, comfy typing
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Logitech MX Keys Mini Minimalist Wireless Illuminated Keyboard - Graphite
- Perfect Stroke Typing with Smart Keys (1): Type on keys shaped for your fingertips, with voice to text Dictation (4), Mic Mute/Unmute, and Emoji keys
- Mini Size, Mighty Powerful: A layout designed for effortless precision, with a minimalist form for an ergonomic keyboard that's portable and can travel wherever you get work done
- Smart Illumination: The wireless keyboard's backlit keys light up the moment your hands approach, and automatically adjust to suit changing lighting conditions
- Multi-Device, Multi OS: Pair MX Keys Mini compact keyboard with up to 3 devices on nearly any operating system via Bluetooth Low Energy and switch between them seamlessly
- Multiple Computers, One Flow: Team the slim MX Keys Mini with MX Master 3 or MX Anywhere 3 and type across multiple computers or laptops in one fluid workflow(1)
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Logitech K270 Full Size Wireless Keyboard for Windows - Black
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
Rank #2
EDJO Large Print 7-Color Backlit Wired USB Keyboard with Retro Round Keys
- 【Large Print Keyboard】: 4X larger than standard keyboard fonts, clear and easy to find when typing, and can help those who have trouble seeing keyboards. Perfect for seniors, the visually impaired, students, special needs departments and libraries, etc.
- 【7 Color Backlit Wired Keyboard】This lighted keyboard features 7 vibrant LED colors and 3 adjustable brightness levels, with easy-to-use backlight hotkeys. Evenly distributed lighting ensures clearly visible key displays, enabling effortless typing in dimly lit offices, at night, or in other low-light environments
- 【Retro Round Key Keyboard】Blends vintage aesthetics with modern typewriter functionality, featuring round keycaps, quiet typing keys, and a compact layout. Designed for smooth, comfortable use, this retro typewriter keyboard helps you stand out in the office. It can showcase its unique charm at home, school,studio, and office
- 【Plug and Play & Silent Click】This wired Backlit keyboard offers effortless setup with plug-and-play functionality—no drivers, power charging, or battery swaps required. Features quiet typing keys for noise-free use.
- 【12 Multimedia Hotkeys & Ergonomic Design】12 convenient multimedia hotkeys for control of music, volume, lock keyboard, email and more, greatly boosting your work and entertainment efficiency. Ergonomic key arrangement reduces wrist fatigue and discomfort during prolonged use.
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