🖥️ The Logitech K850 is one of the most popular productivity keyboards, especially when paired with the M720 Triathlon mouse in the MK850 Combo. But when the tiny USB receiver goes missing, the keyboard stops working instantly – and many users think the entire setup is ruined.
Good news: the K850 has multiple wireless connection options, and you do not need to replace the keyboard. Here’s exactly what to do.
Table of Contents
🔍 Does the Logitech K850 Need a Receiver?
Sometimes.
The K850 supports two connection types:
✅ 1. Logitech Unifying Receiver
The small orange-star USB receiver included with the MK850 combo.
Required only if you use wireless via the receiver.
✅ 2. Bluetooth
Works without any receiver at all.
This is the fastest recovery method.
You have two recovery options:
- Reconnect using Bluetooth
- Replace the Unifying receiver
🟦 Option 1: Connect the K850 Using Bluetooth (Recommended)
This is the easiest way to get the K850 working again.
How to pair via Bluetooth
- Turn the keyboard ON
- Press and hold Easy-Switch Key 1, 2, or 3
- Hold for 3 seconds (LED blinks rapidly)
- Open Bluetooth settings on your computer
- Select “Logitech K850”
- Enter pairing code if prompted
💡 Benefits:
- No receiver needed
- Works with desktops, laptops, tablets, phones
- Supports three devices
- Fast reconnects
If Bluetooth works well for you, you may not need a replacement receiver.
🟧 Option 2: Buy a Replacement Logitech Unifying Receiver
If you prefer using the wireless receiver, you can replace the lost dongle.
🎯 Important:
The K850 uses Logitech Unifying technology, not Bolt.
You must buy a receiver with the orange star logo.
Typical price: $12–$20
Where to buy:
- Amazon
- Best Buy
- Logitech Store
- Staples
- eBay (be cautious of fakes)
🔧 How to Pair the K850 with a New Unifying Receiver
- Download the Logitech Unifying Software
- Plug in the new receiver
- Open the software and choose Pair New Device
- Turn the keyboard OFF, then ON
- Follow on-screen instructions
Pairing usually completes in a few seconds.
🧩 Troubleshooting Pairing Issues
If the keyboard doesn’t pair:
- Move the receiver to a USB 2.0 port (black)
- Use a USB extension cable to bring the receiver closer
- Remove old pairings (the K850 stores up to three)
- Try pairing via Logi Options+ instead of Unifying Software
If nothing works, your K850 might be from a rare non-Unifying batch — in that case, Bluetooth is your solution.
🧭 Bluetooth vs Receiver: Which Is Better?
| Feature | Bluetooth | Unifying Receiver |
|---|---|---|
| No dongle needed | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
| Multi-device switching | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
| Most stable signal | Good | Excellent |
| Lowest latency | Good | Better |
| Best for desktops | Good | Excellent |
If you want maximum stability, the Unifying receiver is best.
If you just want to get the keyboard working immediately, Bluetooth is perfect.
🛑 What NOT to Buy
❌ Logitech Bolt Receiver
The Bolt (blue logo) will not pair with the K850.
❌ Generic USB receivers
Amazon is full of “compatible” receivers.
They do not work with the K850.
Always buy an official Logitech Unifying receiver. Many users buy a two-pack, because these tiny receivers disappear frequently.
🧼 Bonus Tip: Label Your New Receiver
To avoid losing it again, use a tiny sticker or tape and label it:
“K850”
The MK850 combo often includes multiple devices, so labeling prevents mix-ups.
🎉 The Bottom Line
If your Logitech K850 receiver is lost, you have three reliable paths:
- Use Bluetooth – fastest and free
- Buy a new Unifying receiver – most stable
- Use both – ideal for multi-device workflows
Your keyboard is not ruined, and you do not need a new MK850 combo.
The K850 is actually one of the easiest Logitech keyboards to recover because of its dual-wireless capability.
🏷️ Logitech Keyboard Deals ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐