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A keyboard isn't just a set of keys, it's a distinctly tactile experience. How the keys feel is just as important as the technology that communicates our ideas or transmits our actions into the virtual world. Since 2020, we've tested nearly 50 of the best keyboard options on the market from wireless, ergonomic, wired, and gaming. We care immensely about user satisfaction and have developed an extensive set of tests to evaluate each keyboard's tactile feel, connectivity options, and customizations, among others.
Our favorite overall keyboard from testing is the Logitech MX Keys S, a feature-rich model with excellent typing feel and modern hotkeys. We also love the more affordable Kensington Pro Fit Ergonomic Wireless, an ergonomic keyboard with a curved layout and an integrated wrist pad.
See our recommendations for all types of products to maximize comfort and efficiency in your home office, including things like ergonomic keyboards and best wireless mice on the market.
Editor's Note: We updated our keyboard review on October 30, 2024, to ensure our lineup was up to date and to share more testing data.
The Logitech MX Keys S is an excellent full-size wireless keyboard that will keep you streamlined and efficient, whether you're coding, designing, or poring through spreadsheets. Seamlessly swap between three Bluetooth devices (phones, tablets, desktops, etc) at a time with the press of a button. If you are a multiOS user, no problem; the Keys S works with all common operating systems and even features keys with both Mac and Windows markings. Plus, it has a backlight that automatically adjusts to ambient light conditions (a feature that helps preserve battery life), as well as a motion sensor that wakes it up before you even begin typing. The Keys S was released in 2023, but its predecessor, the 2019 Keys without the "S", is still a hit in our office years later. The two versions are visually nearly indistinguishable, with the newer version boasting upgraded hotkeys like emoji, dictation, and mic mute, as well as USB connectivity with Logi Bolt, rather than the older Unifying receiver.
What really sets the Keys apart is its ease of use and pleasing typing experience. Taking inspiration from the Apple Magic Keyboard, the Keys features a sleek design with membrane-scissor switches. The switches provide the satisfying, tactile feel you'd expect from mechanical keys while remaining quiet and low profile. The keycaps are scooped, allowing for more confident typing with fewer errors. The result is the gratifying “Aahhh” many of us said when first using the Keys. Who knew a keyboard could be so pleasurable? Plus, this model has a full ten keypad, programmable F-keys, and sweet beefed up macro functions.
The Keys S is a joy to type on and easily swaps between phones and computers for maximum productivity.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
This keyboard is excellent for students, programmers, business professionals, and even the occasional gamer. While we opted for the full-size, multiOS, scissor-switch version, Logitech also sells a mini version that is great for small workspaces or body frames, as well as a mechanical version for those hardcore typists. If you are a strict Mac user, Logitech offers that too. The Keys S is made with Low Carbon Aluminum and is Carbon Neutral Certified, so it's a particularly great choice for eco-minded individuals. Plus, with a measured five-key rollover (meaning the keyboard can register up to five simultaneous key presses), it's sure to catch every swift keystroke of speedy typists. Low-key gamers will appreciate the rollover score, but we have better recommendations for gaming enthusiasts.
Though the MX Keys is one of our favorite models tested, it's not flawless. Its battery only lasts about 10 days with the backlight on, which is relatively short compared to other wireless models. If you prefer a wired model with a familiar layout, the Keychron K10 may work, or for a lower price point, check out the Arteck Ultra Slim. Still, the MX Keys is an outstanding, feature-rich wireless keyboard with a satisfying typing experience. And luckily, you can still use it while recharging, so it's not a big deal. We should note the backlight doesn't turn on in a bright environment, which is good for battery life but bad if you just want to see the keys glow. In addition, the escape key is long and shifts the entire F-row slightly to the right. In our tests, this didn't affect our typing, and if you're used to a Mac layout, you won't notice any difference. However, PC touch typists may need time to acclimate to the shifted layout.
We love the MX Keys for its sleek profile, intuitive design, eye-catching backlight, and programmable keys.
It's hard to marry an approachable ergonomic design with a budget-friendly price - but somehow, the Kensington Pro Fit Ergonomic Wireless does just that. Its full-size yet curved layout offers a nice intersection between the flat keyboards we're used to seeing and the cooky ergonomic keyboards that are better for posture and productivity. Plus, it won't clutter your deskspace with unnecessary cords; it can connect seamlessly to two devices (Chrome, Mac, or Windows) via Bluetooth or a USB dongle. And, it is even spill-resistant, so no need to worry about those accidental slip-ups.
A 40+ hour work week at a computer can often translate to pain in your fingers and wrists all the way up to your back and neck. We appreciate the Kensington Ergo for its split keyboard, outwardly splayed keys, and slightly vertically tented design that put our shoulders, wrists, and forearms in a more neutral alignment. It also has a built-in padded palm rest and adjustable risers at the front to create a reverse tilt for even better ergonomics.
A split keyboard with outwardly angled keys and vertical tenting will increase your overall comfort when spending long hours at the desk.
Credit: Laura Casner
We highly recommend the Pro Fit for those who spend lots of time at a desk and are looking to test out the waters of the ergonomic keyboard world. Its low price is affordable, so if you don't love it or have a hard time adjusting, all is not lost. If you want to save a little extra money, opt for the wired version. However, if you work with sensitive data, the wireless version comes with 128-bit AES encryption security to protect your and your clients' information. It has a five-key rollover for speedy, heavy-handed typists. And, if you want an ergo keyboard and mouse combo, Kensington offers that, too.
As with any budget option, the Kensington Pro has its downsides. While the keys are quiet, they feel hollow, and overall, the keyboard is not nearly as comfortable, quiet, programmable, and quality-built as the Logitech Ergo K860 Wireless. It's also not as adjustable as the Kinesis Freestyle2, but those models cost more and lack a full number pad. There is no dedicated USB dongle storage space, so be careful not to lose it. However, if it is lost, you can purchase a replacement. It runs on AAA batteries, but you'll only have to replace them every few years and the keyboard has a rarely seen low battery indicator light that lets you know when it's time. While it has media buttons and hotkeys, you'll have to press the function button to use them. Even considering these downsides, this keyboard is a great ergonomic choice for those on a budget.
With an affordable price point and approachable design, the Pro Fit is an excellent introduction to the ergo keyboard world.
Are you looking for an affordable, compact, wireless keyboard you can use on the go? Whether you are a PC, Mac, or Linux user, the highly revered Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s has you covered. It can connect up to three Bluetooth devices, and its split modifier keys allow you to seamlessly swap between operating systems on your phone, tablet, or laptop. The keys have a sleek, rounded shape and durable feel. Their gentle scoop gives your fingertips “a tiny little hug” with each keystroke. Plus, it has dedicated media and hot keys for Mac and PC users, meaning you won't have to use the function key to do things like activate voice dictation, adjust volume, or screen capture. In contrast to the original K380, the “s” version was released in 2023 with a 50% longer battery life, modern hotkeys, and the ability to connect with the Logi Bolt USB receiver (sold separately). But, if you can find the original, it's a steal for a high-quality portable keyboard.
Our deskspace was quickly taken over with keyboards galore for this project, so we especially appreciate the Pebble Keys 2 for its small footprint, which fits easily into a backpack or a cluttered workspace. At just 11 inches across, 14.5 ounces, and with slim-profile keys, it makes a great travel companion. Plus, it's quiet and won't disturb roommates, fellow airline passengers, or nearby cubicle workers.
Year after year, the K380s impresses us with its portable design, solid build, and rich features.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The K380s is a perfect option for students, on-the-go professionals, and people with a small (or shared) desk space. For eco-minded folks, the keyboard is made with a minimum of 49% recycled plastic and is Carbon Neutral Certified. It's also great for users who like a little splash of color - available in fun options like Tonal Rose and Tonal Blue (dedicated Mac version). If you're into gaming, we measured a five-key rollover, which should be enough to get you through most games, though a keyboard with an N-key rollover will have greater versatility.
While there is so much to love about the Pebble, the round keys do take some time to adjust to, especially if you have larger fingers. We missed a few keystrokes initially, but once we got used to the shape, we had no more issues. If square keys are your thing, consider the even cheaper JLab Go or higher price mechanical Nuphy Air75 V2. Also, the K380s requires alkaline batteries. This isn't as convenient as a rechargeable model, but you'll only have to swap them out every few years. Lastly, the keyboard is missing some built-in media control options, but with the Options+ customization software, users can add them back in, swap F-row key functions, and lots more. For an affordable, versatile keyboard that will go anywhere and connect to practically anything, the Pebble Keys 2 K380s excels.
The Logi Options+ software puts you in control, allowing you to customize Fn key functions and designate Smart Actions, which use a single key to automate multiple tasks.
Wired or three wireless (Bluetooth 5.1) connections
White and RGB backlight options
Use for office work or gaming
Customizable typing experience
REASONS TO AVOID
Poor for portability
Have to switch keycaps for multiOS users
No proprietary customization software
In the world of mechanical keyboards, wireless connectivity and office use take a backseat. But not with the Keychron K10 Full Size - Hot swappable. This full-size, multipurpose keyboard works well for business professionals by day and gaming addicts by night. Users can easily switch between wired and wireless connections or Windows/Android and Mac/iOS with slider buttons (though you'll also have to switch the included keycaps). Plus, it's available with a white or RGB backlight that offers a plethora of options to suit your mood. And the shine-through keycaps let you work or play in the dark.
Frills aside, the best feature of the K10 is the actual keys! The switches beneath the keycaps are hot-swappable, meaning you can easily pop them in and out to replace them with your choice of linear, clicky, or tactile behaviors. It ultimately comes down to a personal preference of feel and noise and one that Keychron puts you in charge of. We chose the brown tactile switches, and while they didn't have the noticeable bump we're used to, we found they still had a “great feel to type on.” Plus, Keychron offers a variety of keycap sets to truly fit your aesthetic. The keyboard even features an N-key rollover, perfect for gaming. We pressed up to 40 keys at once before we couldn't push anymore! It passed our test with flying colors.
This high-profile, mechanical powerhouse works for multiOS users seeking a tactile typing feel.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
If you are a gamer, typist, programmer, or someone who generally enjoys the feel of a high-profile mechanical keyboard, then the Keychron may be for you. It's wireless, but don't expect to merrily lug this beefcake around; though if you do, you won't have to fool around with a cord, and there is an aluminum frame option that shaves off some weight. For Linux users who operate outside of the MacOS or Windows world, Keychron has a dedicated Linux user group to help you discover the keyboard's full potential.
While we highly recommend the K10, it's important to note that we did experience some issues with comfort and connectivity. The keyboard has an adjustable height but still sits a little high for us without a palm rest (sold separately). It may work perfectly fine for some users, or you could consider the MX Keys S for a lower profile or the Logitech K860 for a more ergonomic design. It also had a variable wake-up time that could range anywhere from immediately to 10 seconds, but it still always connected in the end. Using the wired connection would remove this issue. Lastly, Keychron does not offer proprietary software to remap the key functions; instead, it lists third-party software. Still, you'll love this wireless keyboard for its fun typing experience and hot-swappable keys.
The Keychron K10 has many features for workers and gamers alike like hot-swappable switches, a customizable backlight, and a speedy wired or wireless connection.
Taking the lead in our list of top gaming keyboards is the Corsair K100 RGB, a true champion known for its exceptional performance and unmatched versatility. This keyboard has rightfully claimed its top position by skillfully blending innovation and functionality, perfectly catering to the demands of devoted gamers. Some standout features of this model are the customizable iCUE control wheel and dedicated macro keys.
The thoughtful engineering behind the macro programming empowers gamers to easily program macros that execute complex commands. We found the software to be intuitive to use and also liked how easy it was to edit the macros we had saved. Of all of the keyboards we tested, the K100 was the best in this respect. Other keyboards offer macro recording or keymapping, but we found it tedious in most cases, so we were inclined to use it less while gaming. There is also no doubt that the K100 is lightning-fast. We tested the optical switches, which are ideal for FPS and MMO games.
The Corsair K100 has all of the features serious gamers want, and then some. Note the iCUE wheel and macro keys on the left, the dedicated media keys on the right, the magnetic palm rest, and the exciting per-key lighting effects.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
If you're a gameing enthusiast who wants the utmost in performance, customization, convenience, and comfort, the K100 is the one for you. The price is steep, but it over-delivers critical features and lighting technology. If you're shopping for a more budget-friendly option, look at the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT below. But overall, we're confident the K100 will help a gamer fully use their skills, pursue ever higher levels of play, and have an incredible form of technology that supports their growth.
Nonetheless, no product is flawless. Despite excelling in various aspects, the Corsair K100 has a shortcoming regarding the types of available switches. Corsair OPX optical switches or Cherry MX Speed switches can be selected, but both of these are linear, so aficionados of clicky or tactile switches will be disappointed. If you want a model that offers a range of switch types, check out the Redragon K552 to give you more versatility.
The K100 offers the option of Corsair OPX and Cherry MX Speed switches, both of which are excellent choices for high-level gaming.
The Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT gaming keyboard presents an exceptional budget-friendly choice that maintains robust features and functionalities. Through its customizable keys, fantastic lighting options, and dedicated macro buttons, gamers can set up the keyboard to suit their individual tastes and gameplay style. The spill-resistant construction (IP42 rating) offers durability for those who eat at their keyboards, and the RGB lighting is nothing short of captivating.
With six dedicated macro keys, users of the K55 can get a competitive advantage by programming intricate macros or creating streaming commands. We appreciated how easy the iCUE software made it to program and edit macros. Note that this is the same awesome software used by the K55's more expensive cousin, the K100. It is also possible to record macros on the fly using the same macro keys. We also loved the media keys on the K55; you don't have to mess around with a Fn button or a dual button key to pause, skip tracks, or adjust the volume.
We really enjoyed our gaming sessions with the K55. It was responsive, has a great overall design, and the iCUE software is excellent.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
This gaming keyboard has the latest technological enhancements but is affordable for gamers on a budget. Those who use their keyboard for work or schoolwork or share it with others will appreciate its resistance to spills and dust. It is a keyboard that can serve many purposes, take some hits (or spills), and keep on ticking.
Nevertheless, certain shortcomings of the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT are worth mentioning. Although functional and responsive, the rubber dome switches don't have the same gratifying tactile sensation as mechanical switches. We recommend checking out the affordable Redragon K552 if you prefer mechanical switches. There is also the issue of longevity; mechanical switches tend to last much longer. Furthermore, while the accompanying clip-in palm rest offers a degree of comfort, some users may find it to be a bit short and have an angle that is too sharp. Of course, this depends a lot upon hand size. With these considerations in mind, the cost-effectiveness and feature-rich design make the K55 an appealing choice for anyone seeking a customizable and budget-friendly gaming keyboard.
The Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT stands out as a feature-rich budget gaming keyboard.
The Logitech G915 Lightspeed is a thoughtfully designed and smart-looking keyboard. Underneath the graceful exterior, however, is a feature-rich tool that thrilled us with the lighting effects. Of course, the most important defining characteristic is that it is wireless, which is unusual among gaming keyboards. We were skeptical at first, but we didn't have any issues with latency or N-key rollover in our extensive testing (which included, of course, tons of playing MMOs and MOBAs.)
Of all of the great things we have to say about the G915 Lightspeed, it was the dedicated macro keys, media keys, and mechanical switches that we appreciated the most. We tested keyboards that allowed for extensive key mapping (the G915 only allows you to assign macros to the five G keys), but the balance of convenient media keys and the ability to select tactile, linear, or clicky switches won us over. The fact that we could also create a variety of lighting scenes with the G Hub software made it a clear choice as the best wireless gaming keyboard.
The keycaps can be easily swapped, as in this case, with the macro keys. Note the svelte outline, and, of course, the entertaining RGB effects.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
This keyboard is for gamers who want a responsive console coupled with excellent RGB features and wireless convenience. Gamers can also use the G915 with all kinds of devices using Bluetooth. And while cords aren't going away anytime soon, gamers who like the freedom of a wireless console will also appreciate how it reduces clutter on their desk. The media keys, which include a volume roller bar, are another enhancement to the quality of life. In our opinion, once a user tries this feature, they won't go back to a keyboard without it. The Game Mode setting is an additional feature that avid gamers will appreciate.
During our testing, we found a few limitations to the G915 Lightspeed. Though the macro keys are a great detail, the macro recording and editing software wasn't as user-friendly as we would've liked. Also, it is not possible to remap other keys. In addition, we have some concerns about the micro USB-A connection for charging. In our experience, this type of connection is delicate and can be damaged. Considering the frequency with which a user will be handling the charge cord, we would like to see a USB-C port instead. When we first began testing, we anticipated addressing issues of latency with this model, but after our testing, we can emphatically share that the G915 won't hold you back. The Logitech Lightspeed technology is impressive, and we now understand that our keyboard doesn't need to be tethered for us to game at a high level. Speaking of gaming, you might want to compare this model to the Corsair K100 RGB, which is our favorite gaming model overall.
Although the G915 is wireless, you'll need to charge it from time to time. We positioned the Lighting dongle beneath our monitor on the included cable, so that we could switch to charging mode and quickly get back to the action.
For ergonomic users seeking a full range of adjustability, the Kinesis Freestyle2 offers just that. When used as a traditional flat keyboard, it has a sleek, low-profile design with a familiar, standard key layout. Then, when you're ready to up the ante, completely transform the keyboard to a fully customized, comfortable fit. You'll have to purchase the tenting legs and palm rest separately, but if you know just what you want from a keyboard, this is definitely worth a look. Plus, if you purchase directly from Kinesis and hate it, they offer a 60-day money-back guarantee; though it's been around for over a decade and has stood to the test of time.
What separates the Kinesis from other ergonomic keyboards in our review is the ability to fully separate the left and right sides of the keyboard. You can select from either a nine-inch or 20-inch connecting cord, which is great for users with wide shoulders. It also has a zero-degree slope, which, combined with the adjustable splay feature, puts our wrists in the desired neutral position.
The two halves of the Freestyle2 can be tethered together, splayed outward, or fully separated.
Credit: Laura Casner
The ability to use the Kinesis tethered together, splayed, or fully separated makes it a great option for new users. Whether you spend long hours at the computer or are recovering from an injury, the Freestlye2 is sure to keep your wrists, shoulders, and back in a natural alignment.
The Freestyle 2 isn't terribly expensive on its own, but once you start adding parts, the price becomes less desirable. Two key parts for ergonomics, the palm rest and tenting accessory, seem like they should be included, but instead, are sold separately. Another caveat is that if you work with numbers all day, you'll likely want to purchase the optional ten-key pad or opt for a less customizable model like the Kensington Pro Fit, Logitech K350, or Logitech K860. We tested the wired, dedicated PC model, but there is also a Mac version and wireless options. Lastly, the function key is a toggle, which requires more effort. Minor downfalls aside, the Kinesis is a highly adjustable model that is sure to fit any body type.
The Kinesis is an excellent ergonomic choice for all body types.
Credit: Laura Casner
How We Test Keyboards
Since 2020, we've tested nearly 50 keyboards with everything from gaming to ergonomics in mind. We've dedicated hours to each keyboard, meticulously assessing the satisfaction of their typing feel, the intuitiveness of their design, 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.
We go to great lengths to robustly test a number of important buying considerations. Quite literally, we measure the length at which our wireless keyboards can maintain a meaningful connection. We blast up the font size, take a step back, and type, ensuring the computer accepts every key press without a lag in time. We continue this process ad libitum, usually gaining as much as 40+ feet of distance before the connection dwindles. With our gaming keyboards, we have fun playing with software to create mesmerizing lighting effects and time-saving key assignments. We keep track of how easy they are to program and how customizable the settings are. To see a full list of methods, check out our articles on how we test gaming and wireless keyboards.
Objective and stringent testing of each keyboard is an important part of our review.
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.
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. Sam Schild is a former journalist, academic, and copywriter. In all these career paths, he has found a quality keyboard to be of utmost importance. Nick Miley is an experienced scientific researcher and consumer product reviewer. He's regularly used keyboard macros and knows a quality switch action when he uses it. Ross Patton has dedicated his life to the development of high-quality consumer products. From electronics to outdoor gear, he hunts down the tiniest details to create significant improvements in design and function. Miya Tsudome has spent years working at a desk and pays careful attention to the fine details that keep her workspace streamlined and efficient. Brian Pidduck leverages his science and data analysis background to discern which products have the best value and function. Our team is stacked with the best. We passionately test each product to give you the straight facts. We thank you for reading our deep dive into the world of keyboards.
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 the ultimate typing experience.
A strong wireless connection stands up to our range test.
Our expert team devoted hours to each keyboard, thoroughly assessing all the features to give you the nitty-gritty details.
How to Choose a Keyboard
Choosing the right keyboard for your intended use is essential. If you're typing for many hours at a time, you'll want a very different device than you would if you're gaming. If you need a keyboard that will swap between multiple devices or is small enough to tote around, there is an option for that as well. Most keyboards are multifunctional, but having the right design and features for your specific needs will likely make things easier. Below, we walk you through three major classes of keyboards to help you decide which style suits you.
A Do-It-All Keyboard: Wireless
Wireless keyboards are usually the smallest and most portable designs. They are easiest to throw in a bag and take up less real estate on your desk. They are also excellent multi-taskers and connect to a variety of devices via Bluetooth, a USB receiver, or both. But, not all wireless models are small and light. Some full-size models have a full ten-key pad and loads of buttons for quick access to frequently used commands. Because they can fall short on features like durability, customization, and speed (though for most users, they are quality enough), their price tends to be more affordable.
Wireless keyboards come in many sizes and are typically the most portable and affordable models. They are also great for swapping between devices.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
For Long Hours: Ergonomic
Ergonomic keyboards typically have a non-traditional shape so that your hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders are in a more natural position. They are designed for people who spend long hours at their computers and often can be split into pieces, bent into a tent shape, or both. Their awkward layout can take some time to adjust to, but it pays off in the end with fewer aches and pains and higher productivity. They can be connected 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.
Ergonomic keyboards help to alleviate problems with posture caused by traditional models.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
For Lightening Fast Speed and Customization: Gaming
Gaming keyboards are optimized for pressing a lot of keys quickly, often all at once. 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 and lose in your game. 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.
Customizeable gaming keyboards give you fast speeds, responsive keys, and an assortment of lighting options.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
What Else To Consider
Once you've figured out the style that best suits your needs, looking at the specific design features will help you narrow down the field considerably.
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 fit small body frames. While compact models come in various sizes, the most common is 75%, like that found in laptops. A 75% compact model lacks a number pad and navigation buttons but is otherwise highly functional and may be all some users need. 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.
If time-saving features are important to you, choose a full-size keyboard. Or, if portability and minimalism speak to you, go compact. But the more compact you go, the more features you lose.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Cable, USB receiver, or Bluetooth?
Keyboards generally connect to a computer or other device in one of three ways: a cable, USB dongle, or Bluetooth. A cord is the simplest and fastest connection, but it is more limiting. By contrast, a wireless Bluetooth connection typically allows users to connect to multiple devices including phones, tablets, and laptops. While it is the slowest of the three options, it is speedy enough for most applications aside from 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, suitable for gaming. It's also easy to set up. But be careful not to lose the receiver. Many models have a place to store the dongle, but some do not.
The decision to choose a wired or wireless model depends upon your connection speed needs and your aesthetics. Wireless models also excel at the ability to connect to multiple devices.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Windows, Mac, or Both?
This question applies to wireless or ergonomic keyboards, as gaming keyboards are generally optimized for Windows. For wireless and ergonomic keyboards, we always test them on both a Mac and PC, regardless of the operating system the keyboard was designed for. Our analyses have shown that for the most part, keyboards will work with either system, with the biggest setback in not having the full functionality of the media buttons and hotkeys. Media buttons and hotkeys grant quick access to anything from track forward/back, screen brightness up/down, show 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. If you regularly use Mac and Windows devices, look for a keyboard with modifier keys labeled for both systems, as this will save time swapping out keycaps.
A keyboard with dual PC and Mac modifier keys works best for users who regularly swap between operating systems.
Credit: Jason Peters
Typing Feel and Noise
Everyone knows 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-dependent, and what some may love, others may hate. So, test out as much as possible, paying special attention to the keys' shape, responsiveness, and acoustic. The keycaps, the part your fingers touch, come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures. When depressed, the keycap requires a certain amount of force and distance to engage the switch beneath it. Once engaged, the switch registers your keypress to your device.
Switches can be membrane-dome, membrane-scissor, or mechanical. Mechanical switches are the most durable, tactile, and audible of the bunch and are also 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. The materials within the keyboard frame also heavily affect the sound, but considering the switch type is a good starting point. Make sure your volume is on when viewing the videos below. It's interesting to hear the stark contrast between these three 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
Extra Bells and Whistles
While every keyboard will have a basic set of functions, some features make the experience more enjoyable. 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. The ability to easily switch between devices 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. If you're a gamer, pay special attention to the rollover score (how many simultaneous key presses the keyboard can register 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.
Quick access keys are convenient to use and optimize efficiency.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Customization Software
Some keyboards come with software to help you set up and customize them. The complexity of this software varies greatly and isn't all that necessary for many users. But if you want to get the most out of a high-end or gaming keyboard, it is important 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 we appreciate how they reduce waste and save us 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.
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
Conclusion
We know it can be confusing when confronted with the variety of keyboards and various forms of technology. We are 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, we'll keep looking for the best new keyboards and developing our test procedures as the technology evolves.
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Sam Schild, Austin Palmer, Ross Patton, Brian Pidduck, Nick Miley, and Miya Tsudome
