Reviews You Can Rely On

The 10 Best Keyboards of 2025

We tested all sizes and shapes of keyboards for gaming, typing, office work, and everything in between to bring you the best
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Best Keyboard Review
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Austin Palmer
By Austin Palmer ⋅ Senior Review Analyst  ⋅  Updated May 22, 2025
Contributions From: Jonathan Sayers & Lissette Velasquez

Picking the perfect keyboard is like choosing the right tool for the job — it can make or break your experience. If you're looking to relieve tension and improve office comfort, you'll want a very different device than one that offers speedy, precise keystrokes to get you through the heat of a gaming battle. If you need to reduce clutter, there's a solution for that, too.

A keyboard is essential to everything we do at GearLab, and over the years, we've passionately tested nearly 100 of the top wireless, office, gaming, ergonomic, and wired options. We care deeply about user satisfaction and our extensive set of hands-on and laboratory tests will help you choose the best the best option for comfort, performance, or pure typing joy.

The Logitech MX Keys S is the best wireless office keyboard, blending comfort, features, and satisfying keystrokes that kept us happily engaged and productive. For serious gamers, the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 delivers pro-level performance and endless customizations that we couldn't get enough of.

Need maximum comfort? The Kinesis Freestyle2 wowed us with its user-friendly, ergonomic design. We also have options for budget shoppers or those needing a space-saving layout.

See our recommendations for all types of products to maximize comfort and efficiency in your home office, including a great mouse.

Related: Best Gaming Keyboards
Related: Best Wireless and Bluetooth Keyboard

Related: Best Ergonomic Keyboard

Editor's Note: Big update alert! As of May 22, 2025, we revamped this review with new products and next-level testing. We hope you enjoy the upgrade!

Our Top Picks

Best Office Keyboard
Editors' Choice Award
Best Office Keyboard
Logitech MX Keys S

$110 List

Best Compact Office Keyboard
Best Buy Award
Best Compact Office Keyboard
Logitech POP Icon Keys

$50 at Amazon

Best Keyboard and Mouse on Budget
Best Buy Award
Best Keyboard and Mouse on Budget
Logitech MK270 Combo

$29 at Amazon

Best Keyboard for Ergonomics
Editors' Choice Award
Best Keyboard for Ergonomics
Kinesis Freestyle2

$99 at Amazon

Best Budget Keyboard for Ergonomics
Best Buy Award
Best Budget Keyboard for Ergonomics
Arteck Ergonomic Wired Keyboard

$50 at Amazon

Best Keyboard for Gaming
Editors' Choice Award
Best Keyboard for Gaming
SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3

$215 at Amazon

Best Value Keyboard for Gaming
Editors' Choice Award
Best Value Keyboard for Gaming
HyperX Alloy Origins

$100 at Amazon

Best Compact Gaming Keyboard on a Budget
Best Buy Award
Best Compact Gaming Keyboard on a Budget
MageGee Portable 60% - Blue Whale Switch

$27 at Amazon

Best Keyboard for Work on the Go
Top Pick Award
Best Keyboard for Work on the Go
Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s

$40 at Amazon

Best Keyboard for Fast and Accurate Typing
Top Pick Award
Best Keyboard for Fast and Accurate Typing
Apple Magic with Numeric Pad

$137 at Amazon


The Best Keyboards


Best Office Keyboard


Logitech MX Keys S


REASONS TO BUY
Great typing feel
Wireless connectivity to any OS
Automatic lighting
Perfect for noise-sensitive offices
REASONS TO AVOID
Non-adjustable incline
Backlight drains battery

Who this is best for: The Logitech MX Keys S is perfect for students and conscientious professionals. It provides one of the most comfortable, quiet, and enjoyable typing experiences among the dozens and dozens of wireless keyboards that I have tested. Tackle your work efficiently with this streamlined keyboard and keep your workspace free of clutter by pairing it with multiple devices via Bluetooth or USB dongle.

Why we love it: I felt a noticeable productivity boost while using the MX Keys to draft my reviews and navigate complex spreadsheets. Our full panel of testers unanimously agreed that this keyboard perfectly blends a soft typing feel with engaging keystrokes. The typing feel is what sets the Keys apart, largely because of its unique circle-indented keys. One tester passionately praised, “I love the comfort circles! They're like a little hug for my fingertips and prevent accidental slip-offs.”

Should you buy it? If you have cash to spend, the MX Keys is worth a place in your office. It can reduce wrist and finger fatigue over long workdays, though not as much as the top-rated ergonomic boards. The battery life also leaves something to be desired, and having ambient lighting and motion-sensing backlights contributes to this problem. While I highly recommend this keyboard for professional settings, the need to plug in every other week and the high price tag might understandably be a dealbreaker.

Number of Devices: Up to 3 | Battery Life: 10 days (lights on), 5 months (lights off)

Read more: Logitech MX Keys S review

keyboard - the logitech mx keys s is sleek, stylish, and discreet enough for...
The Logitech MX Keys S is sleek, stylish, and discreet enough for use in any office or classroom.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Best Compact Office Keyboard


Logitech POP Icon Keys


REASONS TO BUY
Affordable
Delightful typing vibe
Cable-free pairing to any device
Discreet sound
REASONS TO AVOID
Non-traditional key shape
Missing extra perks

Who this is best for: If you're looking to ditch the dated, bulky, black keyboard, the budget-friendly Logitech POP Icon Keys sparks joy in your workspace. Its compact size takes up less desk real estate and is easy to carry wherever you go — from your home to the coffee shop. It's versatile, too, seamlessly connecting to up to three devices on any operating system via Bluetooth.

Why we love it: I love how solid and responsive the keys feel and the vibrant, modern styling. The comfort grooves on each key naturally guide your fingers, while their quiet, snappy “pop” makes typing emails or essays surprisingly fun. “I'm enjoying the feel of these cute little rounded keys. I just love the bubble look and bold colorways,” commented one tester. Beyond looks, the POP Icon actually improved my typing, allowing me to type faster and with fewer errors than nearly every other keyboard I have tried.

Should you buy it? For budget shoppers needing a compact keyboard with a satisfying feel, the POP Icon Keys is it. I appreciated the snappy feel, but some of us couldn't get used to the unique “squircle” key shape. Keep in mind: the smaller size means a few trade-offs. There's no backlight, which could make late-night typing sessions tricky, and the compatible Logitech Bolt USB receiver is sold separately. Plus, without a number pad, entering data or working on spreadsheets can feel sluggish.

Number of Devices: Up to 3 | Battery Life: 3 years

Read more: Logitech POP Icon Keys review

keyboard - the pop icon is a flashy, space-saving keyboard with a great typing...
The POP Icon is a flashy, space-saving keyboard with a great typing feel - just note the rounded keys aren't for everyone.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Best Keyboard and Mouse on Budget


Logitech MK270 Combo


REASONS TO BUY
Awesome price includes a mouse
Wireless connection
Enhances typing speed and accuracy
Spill-resistant
REASONS TO AVOID
Cheap, wobbly feel
Windows layout
Laggy connection

Who this is best for: If you're looking for the best wireless value, the Logitech MK270 Combo is the keyboard for you. You get both a full-size keyboard as well as a perfectly serviceable mouse, making this bundle feel like an absolute steal. This product is best for value hunters with average typing skills, but anyone can benefit from the practicality of this package.

Why we love it: My team and I appreciate the MK270's straightforward approach. It connects via USB dongle and simply works right out of the package with no need to fuss over Bluetooth pairing. While it doesn't provide the same high-end typing experience as more expensive models, I was pleasantly surprised by my typing performance on the MK270. “I can't believe how quickly I can type and how few typos I make with this keyboard!” exclaimed one of our testers. With gently swooped keycaps and slightly long keystrokes, this keyboard overcomes its admittedly cheap build quality to help you type like a pro without the need to invest in a more premium solution.

Should you buy it? There is no doubt that you will get your money's worth and then some out of this keyboard and mouse combo. Not only is it an affordable and highly functional product that will get your workstation up and running, but it also boasts spill resistance and durability to help ensure you won't have to replace it anytime soon. The MK270 is the ultimate value option, but beware, it has rattly keys, limited Mac support, and a sometimes glitchy connection.

Number of Devices: 1 | Battery Life: 3 years

Read more: Logitech MK270 Combo review

keyboard - we were impressed that for under $30, the mk270 offers both a...
We were impressed that for under $30, the MK270 offers both a full-size keyboard and mouse.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Best Keyboard for Ergonomics


Kinesis Freestyle2


REASONS TO BUY
Fully split ergonomic design
Plenty of optional add-ons for customization
Comfortable and easy to use
REASONS TO AVOID
Accessory prices can add up
Rattly keys
Looks slightly outdated

Who this is best for: The Kinesis Freestyle2 is a great solution for anyone who feels pain in the wrists, shoulders, or neck while typing. By itself, the Freestyle2 is a highly adjustable wired ergonomic keyboard that features a fully separated split design. This improves typing posture by allowing you to adjust the left and right halves of the board however you see fit–tether them together, splay them outward, or place them as far apart as a 9" or 20" link cable will allow. Adding the VIP3 Kit to your purchase unlocks the true potential of the Freestyle2 by giving you access to adjustable tenting angles.

Why we love it: While some ergonomic keyboards feature unusual keyboard layouts, I appreciate that the Freestyle2 has a very low learning curve. It provides a familiar typing experience that allows me to work with my usual level of efficiency while also enjoying the relief of a much more natural hand and forearm position. I also love the comfort that the VIP3 Kit adds to the typing experience. The accessory is easy to attach and adds a pair of spacious palm rests that adequately support hands of any size. Tester, Austin Palmer, commented, “I think it's so much more comfortable with the VIP3 palm rest.”

Should you buy it? Finding the right ergonomic keyboard to overcome the discomfort of a repetitive stress injury can be very difficult. However, the Freestyle2 will more than satisfy the needs of most users if you can afford the extra Kit. If you have a particularly severe motion limitation, though, you may need a more pricey board that goes above and beyond with columnar key layouts or concave key wells. Otherwise, the Freestyle2 and its various optional add-ons will accommodate most needs or stave off the onset of RSI in most cases.

Tenting Angle: 5º, 10º, or 15º | Mountable? Yes

Read more: Kinesis Freestyle2 review

keyboard - supportive palm rests and adjustable tenting escalate the freestyle2...
Supportive palm rests and adjustable tenting escalate the Freestyle2 beyond other ergonomic keyboards at a similar price point.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Best Budget Keyboard for Ergonomics


Arteck Ergonomic Wired Keyboard


REASONS TO BUY
Split ergonomic design
Toggleable and dimmable backlight
Low-profile keys
REASONS TO AVOID
Fingerprints and grease are very visible
Keys feel far apart
Only provides minor tenting

Who this is best for: The Arteck Ergonomic Wired Keyboard is an entry-level keyboard tailor-made for people who want to improve their typing posture and prevent conditions like RSI or carpal tunnel syndrome. It has a partially split design that goes a long way toward mitigating joint stress. The gap in the middle of the keyboard separates the keys, facilitating a more natural wrist position. Coupled with a very comfortable built-in wrist rest, this keyboard staves off the strain and fatigue that commonly causes repetitive stress injuries.

Why we love it: This Arteck keyboard dispels the myth that you have to pay a premium price for a specially-made ergonomic keyboard. I was impressed by the stylish, modern design of this Arteck keyboard. While many ergonomic keyboard designs are stuck in the past, this one is aesthetically pleasing and can toggle between seven dimmable backlight colors. One tester noted, “I like the nice and BIG tactile feedback,” giving it a satisfying keystroke feel even as your fingers fly rapidly from key to key while typing.

Should you buy it? If you have ever felt typing fatigue after spending long hours behind a desk, the affordability of the Arteck makes it the perfect choice to see if an ergonomic keyboard can help you. However, you should keep in mind that this budget-friendly option does not include some of the cutting-edge features that help relieve severe RSI pain. It is also not as versatile as some similar wireless keyboards on the market. If being tethered by a wire isn't a dealbreaker for you, though, the Arteck is more than worth the buy.

Tenting Angle: ~6º | Mountable? No

Read more: Arteck Ergonomic Wired Keyboard review

keyboard - a slightly tented design and a supportive wrist rest help to keep...
A slightly tented design and a supportive wrist rest help to keep your forearms in a natural and relieving position.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Best Keyboard for Gaming


SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3


REASONS TO BUY
Adjustable actuation point
Excellent palm rest
Built-in Protection Mode
REASONS TO AVOID
Slightly inaccurate actuation settings in software
Requires loading five profiles at a time

Who this is best for: The SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 is for the gamer willing to pay for the complete package all in one go. It is a premium gaming keyboard that includes cutting-edge Hall Effect switches with adjustable actuation points, and that's just the tip of the iceberg. It is also highly customizable in terms of lighting, macros, switch behavior, and more. With an excellent palm rest also included in the package, you can play your way all day without any cause for strain.

Why we love it: I love how solid this keyboard feels and how pleasant it is to type and play on. Every gaming keyboard we test goes through a gauntlet of actual gameplay testing, and the Apex Pro Gen 3 made a lasting impression with its “Protection Mode” feature. This setting dynamically changes the sensitivity of keys as you use them. When you press a key, the ones surrounding it become less sensitive, drastically reducing the chances of misclicking or fat-fingering during high-speed typing or intense gameplay.

Should you buy it? As the name implies, this keyboard is at the apex of performance and customizability among gaming keyboards. It satisfies any wish you could have for key latency, rollover, and operating force. However, this all comes at a price tag to match. Its linear switches also won't suit every gamer's tastes, with one tester commenting, “I still prefer tactile, but this has a smooth press.” Many gamers swear by their tactile switches, but if that doesn't apply to you, this keyboard is fully worth the investment.

Size Options: Full-size, TKL | Available Switch Types: OmniPoint 3.0 Adjustable HyperMagnetic (linear - mechanical)

Read more: SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 review

keyboard - the keys on the steelseries apex pro gen 3 are incredibly dynamic...
The keys on the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 are incredibly dynamic, versatile, and customizable, giving gamers complete control over how their hardware affects gameplay.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Best Value Keyboard for Gaming


HyperX Alloy Origins


REASONS TO BUY
RGB settings are versatile
Detachable USB cable
Multiple switch types to choose from
REASONS TO AVOID
Macro-writing format is not ideal
No palm rest

Who this is best for: The HyperX Alloy Origins is a high-end keyboard that ticks every crucial box on a gamer's wishlist without pushing the price deep into the triple digits. That's why I assert that it is the best keyboard for most gamers. It reaches a level of performance and responsiveness that rivals competitors that cost twice as much. HyperX even gives the buyer three different switch options at checkout, letting you choose between linear, clicky, or tactile switches based on your personal preference.

Why we love it: What stood out about the Alloy Origins at first glance was the extensive array of lighting options. The RGB options available through the HyperX NGENUITY software can impress just as much as the light shows provided by much more expensive gaming keyboards. I also thoroughly enjoyed my typing experience with the HyperX Aqua tactile switches, which gave me a subtle and satisfying bump. One tester described the sensation by saying, “If I'm going slow, I can feel the bump, and after that, it's easy to press until I feel resistance as the spring compresses.”

Should you buy it? If you're a jack-of-all-trades gamer who doesn't need the pinnacle hardware, then this jack-of-all-trades keyboard is an excellent choice. It's a contender in the competitive scene, a budget-friendly powerhouse for casual and midrange players, and it's even easy to travel with, partly due to its detachable USB cable. The main consideration to be wary of before committing to this keyboard is the comfort factor. It's on the taller side, making it strenuous to reach the whole board without a palm rest. Considering all the positives that shine through with the HyperX Alloy Origins, this can be a minor grievance by comparison.

Size Options: Full-Size, TKL, 65%, 60% | Available Switch Types: HyperX Red (linear), HyperX Aqua (tactile), HyperX Blue (clicky)

Read more: HyperX Alloy Origins review

keyboard - the hyperx alloy origins demonstrates a great aesthetic and a...
The HyperX Alloy Origins demonstrates a great aesthetic and a positive typing experience.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Compact Gaming Keyboard on a Budget


MageGee Portable 60% - Blue Whale Switch


REASONS TO BUY
Six different switch options on purchase
Minimalistic and portable
Low keystroke force
REASONS TO AVOID
Minimal lighting customization
Can be loud

Who this is best for: The MageGee Portable 60% - Blue Whale Switch is for gamers with limited desk space or a desire for portability. Desktop real estate can be limited if you have multiple monitors, game consoles, and controllers. There's also the matter of leaving space for sweeping mouse movements; this keyboard can provide that kind of leeway. Compact keyboards like the MageGee Portable 60% also tend to be less expensive than their full-sized counterparts, providing another valid reason for a gamer to consider it for their arsenal.

Why we love it: I was impressed by the performance packed into such a tiny, affordable package. The MageGee Portable 60% boasts respectably low latency, a capable 1,000 Hz polling rate, and conflict-free N-key rollover. The manufacturer provides an extensive selection of six switch options, each with unique colors and typing experiences for this keyboard. You are free to choose the switch or switches you want and hot-swap between them at will. You get all of this in a condensed frame that's easy to carry and fit anywhere.

Should you buy it? Keep in mind that, as a 60% keyboard, this product only has 68 keys total. If you're playing hotkey-heavy genres like MMOs or RTSs, then this might not be the gaming keyboard for you. Another consideration is the noisiness of the keys. One tester commented, “I can hear it clearly through my open-back headphones,” which may deter sound-sensitive players or those gaming in a shared space. Even so, this keyboard strikes an excellent balance between three ideologies: Minimalism, cost-effectiveness, and performance. If you are a gamer looking for the perfect center of this Venn diagram, the MageGee Portable 60% is for you.

Size Options: 60% | Available Switch Types: Brown (tactile), Red (linear), Blue (clicky), Blue Whale (lubricated linear and silent), Violet (lubricated linear and silent), Ivory White (lubricated linear and silent)

Read more: MageGee Portable 60% - Blue Whale Switch review

keyboard - the magegee portable 60% is a portable compact keyboard, but with...
The MageGee Portable 60% is a portable compact keyboard, but with tall keys that provide a loud yet satisfying clack while you type or play.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Best Keyboard for Work on the Go


Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s


REASONS TO BUY
Small footprint
Connects to any Bluetooth device
Affordable
Ultra quiet
REASONS TO AVOID
Circle keys take some getting used to
Fewer extra features

Who this is best for: The Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s is the top pick for students or professionals on the move. It's compact enough to slip into any backpack and conveniently connects wirelessly via Bluetooth or USB dongle to any PC, Android, Mac, or iOS device. It helps maximize multi-device productivity by letting you switch between three connected devices at the touch of a button. It's perfect for remote workers with limited desk space at home or in public spaces. With a generous battery life, you can spend more time being productive and less time worrying about replacing batteries.

Why we love it: The discreetness of the Pebble Keys is what really amazed me. It's an utterly quiet keyboard that won't disturb roommates, coworkers, or even fellow airline passengers. Its sleek and slim profile is aesthetically pleasing and helps to make it the ideal travel companion. It also offers a novel typing experience with its circle-shaped keys. “I love the circular shape of the keys and think it's fun to type on,” one of our testers commented, although our testing team typed slower and with more errors on this board.

Should you buy it? The K380s is a 75% keyboard, making it suitably compact if you live an on-the-go lifestyle. The typing experience isn't the best, though, primarily because of the small circular keys, which can slow your typing rhythm. It's also a poor choice for gaming, only registering a maximum of three simultaneous key inputs. If you're looking for an affordable, portable tool to strictly use for typing, the Pebble Keys is a smart choice.

Number of Devices: Up to 3 | Battery Life: 3 years

Read more: Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s review

keyboard - a slim frame and low-profile keys make it easy to stow the pebble...
A slim frame and low-profile keys make it easy to stow the Pebble Keys without concern for damaging the keyboard or taking up too much space.
Credit: Matt Lighthart


Best Keyboard for Fast and Accurate Typing


Apple Magic with Numeric Pad


REASONS TO BUY
Sleek design built for speed
Wired or Bluetooth connectivity
Non-intrusive sound
REASONS TO AVOID
Mac layout
High price doesn't include a backlight

Who this is best for: The Apple Magic Keyboard with Numeric Pad is best for anyone looking to maximize typing speed and efficiency. If you want a full-size wireless keyboard that lets your fingers move quickly enough to keep up with every thought, this is our top pick. Type essays and reports at lightspeed, or stay apace with note-taking during meetings or lectures without missing a beat.

Why we love it: "I felt like Jim Carrey in Bruce Almighty, furiously typing away," noted one reviewer. The short distance and strong force required to activate each key, coupled with the smooth, flat surface, boosted my typing rhythm and reduced errors. The slim design allowed my fingers to move about freely, unhindered by tall, obstructive keys. The cherry on top of it all is that it's beautifully quiet, making it an excellent option for those in shared work or living spaces.

Should you buy it? The Apple Magic Keyboard excels in speed and productivity, making it a natural choice for office or school work. However, it's pricey and sacrifices some popular convenience features along the way. There's no backlighting, and the media buttons and hotkeys won't function for Windows devices. It's also worth noting that keys require more than average force to press, which can cause some finger fatigue after long sessions. When performance and speed matter above all else, though, there's hardly a better buy than the Apple Magic Keyboard.

Number of Devices: Up to 2 | Battery Life: 1 month

Read more: Apple Magic Keyboard review

keyboard - the apple magic keyboard is sleek and extremely low profile, giving...
The Apple Magic Keyboard is sleek and extremely low profile, giving it a sense of stylish minimalism while also prioritizing impediment-free typing.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

How We Tested


Since 2020, we've tested nearly 100 keyboards with everything from gaming to ergonomics in mind. My team and I dedicate hours to each keyboard, meticulously assessing the satisfaction of their typing feel, the comfort of their design, the reliability of their performance, and the functionality of their unique features. We use them for everything from typical office work to hardcore gaming to typing on the go, keeping track of the models that excel and those that fall short. We purchase all keyboards from popular merchants, just as you would, to ensure we provide an unbiased review that you can trust.

Our panel of typing pros put these keyboards through extensive side-by-side, hands-on tests to recommend only the best of the best.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

We always validate our user experiences with highly technical laboratory tests. For example, when assessing the typing feel, we consider the underlying mechanics of the keypress. Our Mecmesin force-displacement machine reveals how much energy is required to press down the key and how far the key travels before registering our keystroke. This helps us understand why a key feels soft, firm, speedy, or sluggish with every tap. We even take typing tests on each board to ensure we get the best speed and accuracy with every keystroke.

Here's our force-displacement machine hard at work, turning keypress feel into a visual graph, so we can measure exactly how smooth, snappy, or firm each key is.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

We also use a dedicated testing rig to measure latency — the time between pressing a key and seeing the action happen on the screen. Low latency is especially important for gaming because it means faster reactions, which can make all the difference in high-stakes moments. To see a full list of methods, check out how we test gaming keyboards.

Here's a slow-motion shot of our latency rig in action, measuring the time it takes for a key press to register. In fast-paced games, every millisecond counts.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Why You Should Trust Us


Our tech, gaming, and typing experts have combined their skills for this project, bringing you an ultimate review that is sure to deliver in your search for the perfect keyboard. As a hardcore gamer myself, I, Jonathan Sayers, know a quality switch action when I use one. I have a formal Computer Science degree and now have a professional writing career in tech and gaming. That said, I am no stranger to keyboards.

Austin Palmer is a dedicated gamer in his free time and an electronics specialist during the work week. He's spent nearly a decade professionally testing the leading tech products and a lifetime rebuilding electronics and gaming equipment. Lissette Velasquez is a former scientist and academic writer who now brings her expertise to the world of product review editing. In all these career paths, she has found a quality keyboard to be of utmost importance.

Just another day at the GearLab office, playing with our newest...
Just another day at the GearLab office, playing with our newest gaming keyboard recruit.
We inspect the fine details, replacing keycaps and switches, to find...
We inspect the fine details, replacing keycaps and switches, to find the ultimate typing experience.
Taking a typing speed test on an ergonomic keyboard - are you up for...
Taking a typing speed test on an ergonomic keyboard - are you up for the challenge?
Our expert team devoted hours to each keyboard, thoroughly assessing all the features to give you the nitty-gritty details.

How to Choose the Best Keyboard


Most keyboards are multifunctional, but having the right design and features for your specific needs will make things more enjoyable. To help you choose the best keyboard, we highlight how to narrow down the options on any budget — so you can type with more freedom, game like a champ, or work without strain.

Full-Size or Compact?


The overall size of a keyboard plays a major role in its functionality. Full-size keyboards are usually feature-rich (and higher price), including everything from a ten-key pad to time-saving navigation buttons. But, these extra features come with added size, occupying more space on an already cluttered desk. They are also less portable and don't fit quite as well into a backpack.

Compact keyboards, on the other hand, are easy to travel with, take up less workspace, and offer improved ergonomics. A compressed 96% size may not seem like much change, but for our smallest testers, it makes reaching for the mouse much more comfortable. A 75% compact model, similar to your laptop, lacks a number pad and navigation buttons but is otherwise sufficiently functional for most users. If you're looking for an even smaller size and can forego the F-row keys, then a 60-65% keyboard may be for you.

keyboard - if you prioritize efficiency, a full-size keyboard is the way to go...
If you prioritize efficiency, a full-size keyboard is the way to go. However, if you value space and ergonomics, a compact option may be better. Just keep in mind that the smaller the keyboard, the fewer features you'll have.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Typing Feel and Noise


Imagine that satisfying feel of a perfect keypress - your text is typo-free, your fingers don't feel fatigued, and your ears rejoice with the noise (or lack thereof). This experience is highly user-specific and what some may love, others may hate. So, I suggest testing as many keyboards as possible, paying special attention to the keys' shape, responsiveness, and acoustics to find the style that best suits you.

keyboard - ever wonder what makes a keyboard feel just right? meet the switches...
Ever wonder what makes a keyboard feel just right? Meet the switches - tiny mechanisms under each keycap that register every stroke. They're the secret behind how your keyboard feels, sounds, and responds while you type.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Switch types include membrane-dome, membrane-scissor, or mechanical. Mechanical switches are the most durable, tactile, and audible of the bunch and rich in customizations. They can be linear, tactile, or clicky. Scissor switches, like those found in laptops, retain some tactile feel but are quiet and low-profile. Dome switches, like those found in most budget models, provide a soft feel but lack the durability and responsiveness needed with heavy use.

Make sure your volume is on when viewing the videos below. It's interesting to hear the stark contrast between these three switch types.

Clicky mechanical switches are incredibly tactile and easy to recognize by their unique sound.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Linear mechanical switches provide a stable yet smooth keypress.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Membrane-dome switches provide the softest and least stable feel. They are also less durable. But, if price is a concern, they are likely the cheapest option and may be all you need.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Windows, Mac, or Both?


This question applies to office keyboards, as gaming keyboards are almost always optimized specifically for Windows. For the most part, keyboards will work with either system, with the biggest setback being not having the full functionality of the media buttons and hotkeys. Media buttons and hotkeys grant quick access to certain functions like tracking forward/back, adjusting screen brightness up/down, returning to the desktop, and more. If you plan on taking advantage of these time-saving features, you'll want to make sure your keyboard is compatible with your device, but if you just want to type away, any keyboard will do.

keyboard - if you regularly use mac and windows devices, look for a keyboard...
If you regularly use Mac and Windows devices, look for a keyboard with modifier keys labeled for both systems.
Credit: Jason Peters

Wired, Wireless, or Bluetooth?


Keyboards can generally connect to a computer or other device in one of three ways: a cable, USB dongle (wireless), or Bluetooth. A wired connection is the simplest and fastest option, but it is more limiting. It's not convenient to switch between devices, requires a USB port, and clutters your workspace.

By contrast, a wireless keyboard offers a clutter-free setup that you can use anywhere, though battery life and a reliable connection are concerns. A Bluetooth connection typically allows users to simultaneously connect to multiple devices, including phones, tablets, and laptops. While it is the slowest option, it is speedy enough for most applications aside from hardcore gaming. It is also the longest to set up, but it is the easiest to swap between devices once paired. A USB receiver excels in offering a faster wireless connection speed, which is suitable for gaming. It's also easy to set up. But be careful not to lose the receiver.

keyboard - the decision to choose a wired or wireless model depends upon your...
The decision to choose a wired or wireless model depends upon your connection speed needs and your aesthetics. Bluetooth models also excel at the ability to connect to multiple devices at once.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Extra Bells and Whistles


While every keyboard will have the same basic set of functions, some features make the experience more enjoyable or versatile. For example, a backlight isn't essential for daytime use, but if you work (or play) in the dark, it makes navigating your keyboard easier. Plus, it's simply just fun to look at. Features like media buttons and hotkeys can help with productivity and are very convenient. Easy device switching is a great feature for those who regularly work on multiple screens. Having a ten-key pad is great for those who work with numbers all day, but if you prioritize portability, then this feature isn't necessary.

Hot swappable keyboards allow you to adjust the layout of the board or change the switch type to try out different typing experiences.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Ergonomic Keyboards


Ergonomic keyboards are designed to alleviate aches and pains for users who experience discomfort while typing at their desk. They have a non-traditional shape that can be split into pieces, bent into a tent shape, or both, putting your hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders in a more natural position. However, their awkward layout can take some time to adjust to. They can connect wired or wirelessly, and there are even some portable models. Because of the focus on design, these keyboards tend to be more expensive than traditional models.

A premium ergonomic keyboard will feature a split design, dedicated thumb keys, column-shaped key rows, and highly customizable button layouts.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Gaming Keyboards


Gaming keyboards are optimized for pressing a lot of keys quickly, often all at once. An N-key rollover is ideal if you use both hands, though a six-key rollover may be enough for gaming with one hand. They usually connect to a computer via a USB cable because that's the fastest possible connection. Gaming models usually have keys with mechanical switches so that every time you press a key, you never miss a keystroke or make a fatal gameplay mistake. The mechanical switches are also highly durable, standing up to the brutal onslaught of gamers. Usually, these keyboards are customizable in many areas, such as keystroke depth, backlight colors, and more. With the enhanced features comes an enhanced price tag.

Gamers have strict demands when it comes to style, function, and performance — the right keyboard has to live up to all of these parameters.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Software


Some keyboards come with software to help you set up and customize them. The complexity of this software varies greatly and isn't always necessary for every user. But if you want to get the most out of your high-end hardware or gaming keyboard, it is important to consider whether or not it comes with software. The best software is easy to learn and operate and allows you to navigate the complexities of adjusting features like macros and other shortcuts, backlighting, and more.

The G Hub software gives you the ability to make specific key assignments, create and edit macros, disable certain keys in Game Mode, and explore the exciting world of lighting effects.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Battery Life


Battery life isn't an issue for wired models, which draw power from the connection to the computer. Wireless keyboards, however, need a battery. This can come in the form of an alkaline battery or a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Alkaline batteries are easy to buy but need to be replaced every so often. At GearLab, we use third-party rechargeable batteries in our keyboards, and I appreciate how they reduce waste and save money. Keyboards with rechargeable batteries tend to have shorter runtimes than their alkaline counterparts, but most can be used while they're charging. And since you generally use a keyboard with a computer, finding a power source isn't an issue.

keyboard - we measure battery life by simply using the keyboards and evaluating...
We measure battery life by simply using the keyboards and evaluating manufacturers claims and customer reviews.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Conclusion


I know it can be confusing when confronted with the variety of keyboards and various forms of technology. I am confident that after reading this review and determining your individual needs, you can select a model that is perfect for you. Our ratings and recommendations will assure you that you have made a good choice. In the meantime, my team and I will keep looking for the best new keyboards and developing our test procedures as the technology evolves.

keyboard - we hope you've found our review helpful in your search for the...
We hope you've found our review helpful in your search for the perfect keyboard. We're continually updating it with new models, so check back in with us for the most up to date analyses.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Austin Palmer, Jonathan Sayers, and Lissette Velasquez