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A great wireless keyboard delivers a clean workspace, smooth switching between devices, and a comfortable typing experience.
Since 2020, we've thoroughly evaluated nearly 60 wireless and Bluetooth keyboards in side-by-side comparisons. Every model undergoes detailed lab testing for latency and responsiveness. Afterward, our editors assess each keyboard for comfort, typing speed, and—above all—the satisfying feel (or not) of every keystroke.
Year after year, the Logitech MX Keys S delights us with soft yet engaging keystrokes that make typing comfortable, enjoyable, and effortlessly productive. For under $30, the Logitech MK270 Combo is the ultimate value, helping you type faster with fewer errors — plus it comes with a mouse. If you crave gratifyingly crisp, long keypresses, the Keychron V5 Max mechanical board delivers with amazing versatility for gamers.
Editor's Note: This review was updated on May 22, 2025, to add two new budget-friendly, award-winning products to the lineup: the Logitech POP Icon Keys and Logitech K585.
For top-tier comfort and pure typing joy, look no further than the full-size Logitech MX Keys S. “I love the effortlessly smooth keystrokes and scooped keycaps that cradle my fingertips,” praised local keyboard guru Austin Palmer. The slim design minimized strain on our fingers and wrists. Plus, it's super quiet — perfect for collaborative spaces — unlike louder, more snappy mechanical boards like the Keychron V5 Max.
The Keys S is full of extra perks. Like its award-winning 2019 predecessor, it has an automatic backlight for work (or play) in the dark, compatibility with any operating system (including your phone), and a number pad for easy data entry. Intuitive Logi Options+ software even lets you customize key functions to create personalized shortcuts.
SPECIFICATIONS
# of Devices
Up to 3
Combination of BT and wireless
Connection Types
Wireless
Bluetooth
Manufacturer Battery Life
5 months (lights off)
10 days (lights on)
The MX Keys is a trusted GearLab favorite, but it's not for everyone. It has a short 10-day battery life (with the backlight on) and doesn't have an adjustable incline. Like all full-size keyboards, it takes up quite a bit of desk space. If you need something smaller, opt for the Mini version, which drops the number pad.
Speed isn't its strength; comfort is. One tester put it best: “I don't feel speedy typing on the Keys, I feel comfortable — which can be frustrating when I'm trying to get the word babies out.” Most of us typed faster on the Apple Magic's flatter keys, but the firmer press quickly wore us out. While the Apple offers a longer battery life, lower incline, and snappier feel, the MX Keys takes the crown for the overall best typing experience.
We ran this popular pick through our rigorous tests, and it absolutely delivered! For a more detailed breakdown, skip ahead to the Analysis and Test Results.
The Logitech POP Icon Keys is an eye-catching, space-saving, budget-friendly keyboard for fast, fun typing at home or wherever you roam. “I love the responsive pop — it gives every keystroke a happy zing,” noted one reviewer. The typing experience is one of the best we've tested, only second to the pricey MX Keys S, and collectively, we typed faster on this board than nearly all others we tried.
The POP Icon helps you stay productive, even when away from your desk. It's small and connects up to three devices, whether it's your computer, tablet, or phone. Added bonuses include customizable shortcuts with Logi Options+ software, a pleasantly quiet experience that won't disturb your neighbors, and a whopping 3-year battery life. If only it had a backlight.
SPECIFICATIONS
# of Devices
Up to 3 Combination of BT and wireless
Connection Types
Wireless
Bluetooth
Manufacturer Battery Life
36 months
The “squircle” keys are funky, though, and may not appeal to all. They didn't trip us up as much as the circular keys on the Pebble Keys 2, but one tester complained, “I just feel slow and awkward, and I tend to hit the gap between the keys.” Most of us didn't mind the shape, but some missed classic square keys for a faster flow.
If you prefer traditional square keys, the Logitech K585 is another low-cost option with a slightly more comfortable typing feel, a number pad, and a handy phone holder. However, the keys feel a bit mushy and lack the POP Icon's crip, joyful pop.
If you don't mind rounded keys, the POP Icon is a great low-cost option. Its responsive keys and bold colorways make your desk a fun hub for speedy, error-free typing. We just wish it had a number pad and a backlight.
The Logitech MK270 Combo is an excellent, budget-friendly full-size keyboard and a mouse that can help you work faster. We were blown away by how much it boosted both our typing accuracy and speed — two of us averaging 48 words per minute jumped to 54 words per minute, making a noticeable difference in our productivity (see where you stack up here).
It has a familiar feel, with gently curved keycaps and a slightly long keystroke — unlike the slim, sleek, and pricey Apple Magic that's better suited for expert typists. One tester noted, “It does feel rattly and mushy, but it's not as bad as I thought it would be given the $30 price tag.” Bonus: its spill-resistant design lets you furiously type away without worry.
SPECIFICATIONS
# of Devices
1
Connection Types
Wireless
Manufacturer Battery Life
36 months
Given the low price tag, the MK270 suffers in build quality and limited connection options. The required USB Nano receiver was a bit laggy in our tests, with one reviewer commenting, “There's definitely a delay between me typing on the keyboard and the text appearing on the screen. I find that the mouse stutters, too.”
For a more reliable connection and the option to use Bluetooth, the Logitech POP Icon Keys is a nice upgrade option for Mac and PC users. Its keys feel solid and snappy, though their unique shape might not suit every typist's style, and it lacks a number pad.
The MK270 is a typing powerhouse at a jaw-dropping price, boosting speed and precision. However, the cheap build readily shows with the flexible plastic frame, wobbly keys, and lack of a backlight.
For the absolute best typing performance packaged in an ultra-sleek design, the Apple Magic with or without a numeric pad is the ticket. “The exceptionally low-profile and remarkably stable tactile keys are crisp, quiet, and built for speed,” noted one typing expert. We felt like Jim Carey in the fast typing trend when using this board, and typing pro-Austin achieved his best score of 91 words per minute with 98% accuracy. Impressive!
Contrast this with the Nuphy Air75 V2 mechanical keyboard, whose sensitive keypress and awkward key shape lowered our whiz kid's performance to 80 words per minute and 91% accuracy. Yikes.
SPECIFICATIONS
# of Devices
Up to 2
1 BT, 1 wired
Connection Types
Wired
Bluetooth
Manufacturer Battery Life
1 month
The Apple Magic is built for the sprint, not the marathon. Review editor Lissette Velasquez lamented: “My fingers felt noticeably sore after just one hour — I definitely can't type on this all day.” The keys require a bit of muscle to press down and have a hard bottoming-out feel, although the slim design kept our wrists in a nice ergonomic position.
Additionally, while PC users can use the Apple Magic (I'm doing so right now), you'll miss out on the media buttons and hotkeys. The MX Keys S offers better comfort and versatility for PC and Mac users, but if you're an Apple purist craving that sleek design and crisp feel, the Magic Keyboard is the way to go.
The Apple Magic is perfect for speed. The sturdy aluminum chassis and sleek aesthetic are what you'd expect for the higher price tag, but we wish it had a backlight and better PC compatibility.
The Keychron V5 Max exemplifies everything we demand from a mechanical keyboard: a rich tactile feel, a creamy sound, and a fun typing experience suitable for work or play. “I love the crisp, responsive keys and the curved, grippy keycaps that cradle my fingertips,” relished one tester. Unlike the ultra-shallow keys of the Apple Magic, the Keychron's keys have that deeper, satisfying action.
Computer whizzes will love the V5's versatility across any operating system with USB-C, USB-A, and multi-device connectivity. Everything is customizable, from the backlight to the key feel (we chose the Banana switches for an ultra-tactile feel, but there are softer options). It also has minimal lag and can handle an infinite number of simultaneous key presses (N-key rollover), making it a solid choice for avid gamers.
However, the V5 Max does have its quirks. “I appreciate the compact full-size design, but the narrow zero key and small keycaps took me extra time to get used to,” one tester noted, which slowed our overall typing speed. Luckily, Keychron's V Max series offers various keyboard sizes and keycap options to help you find the best layout for your needs.
Additionally, it's loud and requires a palm rest to improve comfort. The MX Keys S is quiet and has a lower profile and cushier feel, making it better for typists who spend long hours on their keyboard. Still, for mechanical board enthusiasts who desire a longer, more tactile keypress and gratifying full sound, the V5 Max provides the ultimate pleasure.
The full-size Razer Pro Type Ultra is a dream for those who love a soft, effortless typing feel and outstanding versatility. “I love the smooth, steady keypress and the springy release that propels my fingers to the next key,” noted typing master Jess Riconscente. The light, airy keystrokes require minimal effort and are among the most gentle of the group — unlike the firms press on Keychron V5 Max. Adding to the comfortable feel are three adjustable angles and a luxuriously plush wrist rest.
The Razer also has a backlight, multi-device connectivity, and customizable key functions (for PC users). Plus, with a speedy connection and 14-key rollover, the Razer can double as your gaming board.
Beware, it's loud and can be distracting in quiet public spaces. “It doesn't make much noise when I press down, but when I release the key, there's a loud pop-back,” noted one reviewer. It's a hollow thock and differs from the rich clack some mechanical board users may favor.
It's also pricey and bulky. If you like the smooth feel of a linear keyboard like the Razer, the Keydous NJ80-AP Custom Mechanical is a more affordable, compact alternative. It saves desk space by removing the number pad and works with Apple devices, though you'll need to factor in the cost of a palm rest to improve comfort.
If you prefer a mechanical board with a light, airy, and springy feel, the Razer Pro Type Ultra is an excellent choice. It can double as your gaming board, just beware: the pillowy wrist rest adds extra girth.
Calling all wandering minimalists on a budget! The Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s is the ultimate low-cost, compact, whisper-quiet model that fits easily into any carry-on. Its ultra-slim, 11 x 5-inch design is a mere pebble relative to the monstrous 17 x 9-inch layout of the Razer Pro Type Ultra. “I love the mini design and quiet keys — perfect for traveling,” noted one reviewer.
The K380s works with any phone or tablet, so you can type anywhere inspiration strikes. You can also customize the F-row keys to create quick shortcuts. Building on the success of the original K380, the 2023 version adds a longer 3-year battery life and optional USB connection (sold separately), though we're sad to see some media controls go.
SPECIFICATIONS
# of Devices
Up to 3
Combination of BT and wireless
Connection Types
Wireless (dongle not included)
Bluetooth
Manufacturer Battery Life
36 months
The K380s sacrifices typing experience for portability. Those of us with small hands merrily typed away while most others struggled to enjoy it. “I feel like a broad-shouldered linebacker typing on this tiny board,” griped one reviewer.
The circular keys also sparked polarizing opinions — some of us found them fun, while others thought they felt awkward and mushy. The slightly more square-shaped keys of the POP Icon Keys gave us a more satisfying and rapid typing flow, but it's slightly heavier and larger. If you need a backlight, the MX Keys S Mini is a nice upgrade, yet the K380s reigns as our top affordable, portable keyboard.
If you're looking to reduce clutter in your workspace, the Logitech K585 is a cute, affordable, space-saving keyboard with a nifty slot to hold your phone or tablet. The 96% compact size squeezes in a full number and is compatible with any operating system. Plus, the extra low height and soft key press minimized strain on our fingers and wrists, with one tester praising, “I felt like I could rip it on the typing test.”
SPECIFICATIONS
# of Devices
Up to 2 Combination of BT and wireless
Connection Types
Wireless
Bluetooth
Manufacturer Battery Life
24 months
However, the flat keys felt a bit mushy, and the slot didn't fit every device we tried. It's quiet, but the space bar has a rattly, scratchy sound, almost like a rattlesnake. Tester Rachael noted, “I want the attention to detail to go past the cute colorway and match in the key feel and build quality because it feels lacking.” The Logitech POP Icon Keys offers a more solid, satisfying typing experience but lacks a number pad and device holder.
We love the K585 for the phone holder and cute rose colorway, but we wish it had a more satisfying typing feel. A bonus: it comes with the Unifying USB receiver and a place to store it.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Compare Products
Anyone can recite manufacturer specs or tell you how a particular keyboard feels, but few can back those claims with controlled lab measurements. At GearLab, we use a Mecmesin force-displacement machine to unveil the science behind each keyboard's unique typing experience.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
How We Tested
Keyboards aren't just a computer accessory — they're your secret weapon for a smoother, more productive workday. Since 2020, we've purchased over two dozen of the top Bluetooth and wireless models and put them through our head-to-head testing protocol. In addition to extensive hands-on analyses by tech and typing pros, each keyboard undergoes in-depth laboratory assessments.
We rate everything from how comfortable and versatile they are to how quickly we can type on them. Above all else, we consider how enjoyable the experience is across any skill level or typing preference. After collectively spending a minimum of 40 hours on each board, we're confident our review will guide you to the perfect option on any budget.
Each wireless keyboard is assessed across the following five performance metrics:
Typing Experience (45% of overall score weighting)
Comfort (20% weighting)
Performance (20% weighting)
Typing Noise (10% weighting)
Convenience (5% weighting)
We devote days individually testing each keyboard to help you find the model that best suits your needs, whether you're a novice or an advanced typist.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Why Trust GearLab
Leading the project is tech expert and keyboard fanatic Austin Palmer. Austin is the ultimate gearhead and has spent a lifetime learning the ins and outs of keyboards, thanks to his insatiable passion for PC gaming. In addition to wireless keyboards, he's also thoroughly tested gaming and ergonomic keyboards.
Rachael Lamore and Lesley Robinson join the team, providing extra sets of hands to weigh in on the analysis. They can regularly be found using a keyboard to laboriously log their meticulous research findings on the latest and greatest tech equipment. Lastly, Lissette Velasquez translates our copious amounts of data into digestible snippets. She's worked as a scientist and academic writer, all the while appreciating the role of a high-quality board to keep her in the zone.
We measure how quickly each keyboard relays your keystroke to your device -- you don't want a glitchy connection slowing you down after all.
If you're working in a quiet office space, you'll want a quiet keyboard to spare your coworkers the distraction of a loud, clacky keyboard.
Size matters when you are on the go or have a cluttered workspace.
We go the extra mile, measuring latency, noise level, and size — key specs that matter when reliability, quietness, and portability are top priorities.
Analysis and Test Results
Our tests span five metrics to give you the full scoop on each wireless keyboard's performance. Below, we highlight those that spark joy in our workday and those those that leave us tired and frustrated.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Keyboard prices range from under $20 to over $200. But you don't have to spend an arm and a leg to find a valuable product that suits your needs. When considering our value chart, it's clear that compact models generally cost less than full-size models. Our favorite compact keyboard is the POP Icon Keys, whose low-profile keys provide an enjoyable, speedy typing experience in a space-saving format. We just wish it was slightly more comfy to type on and had a backlight.
Keyboards with built-in docking stations, like the Logitech K585, can function as a low-cost portable computing device.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
If you want a full-size keyboard at an ultra-low price, the Logitech MK270 is a steal. The keyboard also comes with a mouse, which sweetens the deal; however, it's best enjoyed by PC users who don't mind wobbly keys. The Logitech K585 is another great choice that is compatible with any Bluetooth-capable device, making it a more versatile option for budget shoppers. However, as with most low-cost options, the keys are slightly squishy.
Keyboard/mouse combos, like the MK270, offer great money savings.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
On the other hand, if a premium typing experience is your thing, the Logitech MX Keys S is an overall top-performing powerhouse. It's more expensive than our budget picks, but it offers a more satisfying and comfortable feel at a price that's lower than most high-end competitors.
If you spend long hours at your desk, consider spending a little more for a more enjoyable experience, like that provided by the MX Keys S.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Typing Experience
Typing on a keyboard is more than just pressing keys — it's the feel, flow, and overall vibe of your work or play station. To evaluate each keyboard's experience, three of us spent at least one full workday clacking away on each board. We noted our first impressions and any changes in opinion once we became accustomed to the unique character of the board. We then uncovered the underlying mechanics of each keyboard using a Mecmesin force-displacement machine, validating our hands-on insights with scientific data. The data was averaged over five independent test runs.
Here, we compare keypresses side by side to feel which ones are the best.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Before we dive into the results, let's decode some keyboard lingo. Actuation is a fancy word, but it's simply that magic moment when you tap a key and boom — stuff happens on the screen. Thus, actuation force is how hard you have to press down to make it work, while actuation distance is how far you have to press before it registers your keystroke. If you keep pushing the key all the way down until it stops and hits the backplate, that's the total travel distance. All these things depend on a tiny part under each key called the switch — it's what makes typing feel clicky or smooth.
Tester Typing Experience Results
Product
Tester 1
Tester 2
Tester 3
Logitech MX Keys S
8
9
8
Logitech POP Icon Keys
6.5
9
8
Apple Magic
7.5
9
5
Keychron V5 Max
7.5
5
8
Keydous NJ80 AP
5.5
7
8
Razer Pro Type Ultra
6
5
8
Logitech K585
5.5
8
5
Logitech MK270
5
8
5
Nuphy Air75 V2
6
6
5
Logitech Signature K650
4.5
7
5
Arteck HW192
4.5
5
5
Omoton Ultra-Slim
5
6
3
Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s
3.5
5
5
HP 230
3
5
3
While a satisfying typing experience is a highly subjective measure, we unanimously agreed that the Logitech MX Keys S topped the charts. The scissor switches are responsive yet smooth, preventing the jarring “thud” of a harsh bottoming out. We also loved the unique circular keycap divots that hugged our fingertips and prevented them from sliding around. The Logitech POP Icon Keys was another top scorer, with a similarly soft, snappy feel and a lightly swopped surface. One of us felt weird and awkward typing on the part square, part circle keys, while the other two found them fun. We also wished it had a number pad.
The MX Keys low-profile scissor switches provided the perfect amount of tactile feedback and just enough movement to satisfy both fans of low-profile keyboards and those who prefer a longer more traditional feel.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Here's what the MX Keys keypress looks like in graphical form. A “tactile bump” (a little speed bump you feel when pressing the key) occurs 0.7 millimeters into keypress, providing immediate feedback for your fingertips. The keys are low profile, but can move up and down a total of 1.9 millimeters, giving you just enough travel to feel responsive without feeling too deep or sluggish.
Credit: Austin Palmer
Two of us loved the smooth and satisfying long keypress on the Keydous NJ80-AP linear mechanical board. It also earned high praise for the lightly matte texture on the keycaps that gently gripped our fingertips in place, though one of us yearned for a more responsive, tactile feel and a number pad.
The Keydous's standard-profile keys provide the longer travel distance some users value. The keypresses felt soft, which was nice for comfort, but made it easy to activate the wrong key accidentally.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
In contrast to the MX Keys S, the Keydous's keys can travel a total of 3.5 millimeters, giving your fingers more room to play. The Keydous also lacks a tactile bump, providing a deeper, smoother, uninterrupted action. It only requires a mere 39 grams of force to activate, explaining why we felt it was soft to type on.
Credit: Austin Palmer
The sleek, flat keycap surface and short travel distance of the Apple Magic provided a crisp and surprisingly fun typing feel for two of us. However, one found the short, 1.0-millimeter travel distance less gratifying than standard profile boards like the Keychron V5 Max. Additionally, the high 62-gram actuation force made some of us feel like our fingers were pumping iron before slamming into the hard backplate. It's not the most unpleasant bottoming out, but certainly harder than the MX Keys S
Apple Magic with Numeric PadKeychron V5 Max
Use this graph to compare the mechanics between your two favorite keyboards. For example, the Apple Magic and Keychron V5 Max are two satisfyingly crisp tactile boards that require a swift, strong action to overcome the early tactile bump. However, the Keychron's actuation point occurs 3x later, meaning you have to press the key much further, giving it a deeper, more deliberate feel compared to the Magic's snappy response.
Most other keyboards had an average typing experience, but the HP 230 was notably poor. The budget-grade rubber dome switches have a reasonably tactile bump at 1.0 millimeters, but after that, our fingers felt like they were falling into a mushy abyss to reach the actuation point at 2.4 millimeters. “It's like dragging my fingers through mud,” complained one reviewer. It's a very different experience than the more responsive feel of scissor or mechanical switches.
If you watch closely, you can see our finger hit the HP 230's slightly delayed tactile bump about one-third into the key press, making the keys feel less responsive. Towards the bottom, the key keeps pressing further, giving it that mushy, oatmealy feel that two of us loathed.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Comfort
When a keyboard feels just right — whether it's a soft keypress or wrist support — you'll stay more focused and productive. To evaluate comfort, we spent hours on each board, keeping track of factors that caused fatigue in our fingers and forearms or strain in our wrists. Since there's no one-size-fits-all ergonomic design, we included small, average, and large-sized testers to ensure comfort for every body type and personal preference.
An adjustable keyboard angle makes it easier to find the perfect ergonomic setup. While many models offer this perk, the premium-tier MX Keys S and Apple Magic lack it. Despite this setback, the MX Keys S consistently earned our highest regards, thanks to a low, 9.6-millimeter profile that's comfortable to use without a wrist rest and a smooth typing feel that avoids the sensation of pounding away at the keyboard. While we wished there was an option for a lower base incline, none of us found the 6-degree angle too obtrusive, though it does take some time to adjust to if you're used to a 2 to 3-degree angle.
Keyboard Angle
Base
Angle 1
Angle 2
Apple Magic
3.0 degrees
-
-
Keychron V5 Max
3.5 degrees
7.0 degrees
9.0 degrees
Logitech MK270
0.0 degrees
8.0 degrees
-
Logitech MX Keys S
6.0 degrees
-
-
Logitech Signature K650
2.0 degrees
4.5 degrees
8.0 degrees
Razer Pro Type Ultra
3.0 degrees
6.0 degrees
9.0 degrees
Omoton Ultra-Slim
8.0 degrees
-
-
We loved the three adjustable angle settings on the Razer Pro Type Ultra. The included plush palm rest put less strain on our wrists, though some of us felt it was almost too cushy. Adding to the comfortable design is a low 42-gram actuation force that felt less tiring to type on over the long run. The Apple Magic and Logitech K585 also earned high scores because of the slim 5.5- and 8.4-millimeter height that minimized wrist strain. However, the Magic's keys weren't quite as easy to press down as the MX Keys and Razer Pro and had a hard bottoming-out feel.
While the Omoton is low profile, some of us felt the need to use a wrist rest to reduce the tension created by the high 8-degree keyboard angle. The keys also require a considerable amount of muscle to push down.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Performance
A fast, precise keyboard helps you maintain efficiency without worrying about the delay or missed keystrokes that can be common with laggy wireless connections. To evaluate performance, we took a series of typing tests to determine how quickly and how accurately we could punch away. If our performance was slow or error-prone, we carefully determined what design factors caused the disappointing results. We also measured each keyboard's latency and rollover score to identify those models that may be particularly appealing to gamers.
Typing Speed
Buckle up, word warriors! Below, we spill the beans on our epic typing test showdown.
Word Per Minute Differences From Testers' Average
Tester 1
Tester 2
Tester 3
Average Speed Differences
Tester Average Speed
83 WPM
53 WPM
42 WPM
✖
Apple Magic
8 WPM
0 WPM
3 WPM
4 WPM
Logitech MK270
0 WPM
6 WPM
7 WPM
4 WPM
Logitech POP Icon Keys
3 WPM
4 WPM
6 WPM
4 WPM
Logitech K585
0 WPM
5 WPM
6 WPM
4 WPM
Logitech MX Keys S
0 WPM
-1 WPM
7 WPM
2 WPM
Omoton Ultra-Slim
2 WPM
4 WPM
0 WPM
2 WPM
Razer Pro Type Ultra
4 WPM
2 WPM
1 WPM
2 WPM
Arteck HW192
2 WPM
-2 WPM
2 WPM
1 WPM
Keydous NJ80 AP
1 WPM
2 WPM
-1 WPM
1 WPM
Logitech Signature K650
1 WPM
-2 WPM
-2 WPM
-1 WPM
Nuphy Air75 V2
-3 WPM
0 WPM
0 WPM
-1 WPM
Keychron V5 Max
-3 WPM
-1 WPM
-2 WPM
-2 WPM
Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s
-6 WPM
-2 WPM
-4 WPM
-4 WPM
HP 230
-5 WPM
-5 WPM
-7 WPM
-6 WPM
Those of us with “average” typing skills achieved the fastest typing speed on the Logitech K585, POP Icon Key, and MK270. The familiar layout and low-profile design improved our score by five to nine words per minute. However, those of us with more advanced skills saw the most improvement on the Apple Magic, primarily because the wide, flat, and slim keys make it easy to glide through words like a typing ninja! One of us saw a seven-word per minute increase on the MX Keys S, which we ascribed to the high 6-degree angle that makes it easier for small hands to reach the keys.
The Apple Magic keyboard's large flat keys and short travel distance offer fewer hurdles for expert typists to overcome. Lead tester Austin's fingers sprinted by a whopping eight words per minute faster than average!
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The two bottom performers were the HP 230 and Logitech K380s, who lowered our overall speed score by six or four words per minute, respectively. The HP's awkward key press and the Logitech's unfamiliarly small keycaps were the main culprits for the sluggish results. We also made more frequent typos with these boards, requiring us to reach for the backspace key more often.
The long actuation distance and unpleasant typing experience played a big part in the HP 230's sluggish speed tests for all of us.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Typing Accuracy
The Apple Magic and Logitech MK270 were also our top performers in precision, allowing us to achieve our top combined scores of 94-95 percent accuracy. The high 62-gram actuation force of the Apple and the long 2.2-millimeter actuation distance of the MK270 help prevent accidental keypresses.
Accuracy Performance
Product
Tester 1
Tester 2
Tester 3
Logitech MK270
96
99
91
Logitech K585
94
94
95
Apple Magic
98
95
88
Logitech POP Icon Keys
94
98
88
Arteck HW192
94
95
88
Omoton Ultra-Slim
95
96
86
Logitech MX Keys S
96
94
85
Average
94
94
86
Razer Pro Type Ultra
95
94
83
Keychron V5 Max
93
94
84
HP 230
91
89
89
Logitech Pebble Keys 2 K380s
92
93
84
Logitech Signature K650
93
92
84
Keydous NJ80 AP
92
94
81
Nuphy Air75 V2
91
91
83
Two of us received our lowest scores on the awkward HP230, but the overall worst offenders were the Keydous NJ80-AP and the Nuphy Air75 V2. The low 39-gram actuation force, coupled with the shallow 1.3-millimeter actuation distance, didn't do the Keydous any favors, especially for clumsy typists. For the Nuphy, the slippery keycaps and non-distinct separation between the keys made it easy to get lost or accidentally “fat finger” the wrong key.
The shallow gap between the keys on the Nuphy V2 made us hit adjoining keys more often.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Latency
Latency refers to the delay between pressing a key and the action being registered on your device. It's an especially important spec for fast typists or gamers because it can make the difference between a seamless, responsive experience and one filled with frustrating delays.
A wired connection will generally offer lower latency than Bluetooth. Here you can see the difference between an 11-millisecond delay in wired mode versus the 28-millisecond delay in Bluetooth mode on the Keydous NJ80.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
While we do not weigh latency into our overall performance score, we measure it to highlight models suitable for low-latency applications.
Latency Response Time
Wired
Wireless
Bluetooth
Keychron V5 Max
6 ms
7 ms
12 ms
Razer Pro Type Ultra
5 ms
6 ms
12 ms
Logitech MK270
✖
23 ms
✖
Nuphy Air75 V2
9 ms
9 ms
✖
Omoton Ultra-Slim
✖
✖
32 ms
The lowest latency keyboards in our lineup include the Keychron V5 Max, Razer Pro Type Ultra, and Nuphy Air, which all had a 6-9 millisecond delay in wireless mode (using the USB dongle).
While the Omoton had a long Bluetooth latency of over 30 milliseconds, we noticed no lag while typing. On the other hand, on occasion, we did experience some delay on the MK270 keyboard and mouse.
The Razer had the lowest response times in the lineup, making it an excellent choice for low-latency applications like gaming.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Rollover
Lastly, we measured each keyboard's rollover score — how many keys it can handle being simultaneously pressed down at once before it starts to ignore your wild button-mashing. It's an important feature for gaming, but we never found it a limiting factor for office work.
The Keychron and Nuphy had an N-key rollover score, allowing us to press as many keys as we wanted, all at once, without missing a single keystroke. Pulling off complex gaming moves is no problem with these boards. For the Razer, the score varied between 6-key and 14-key, with wireless mode being the best option for gaming.
The Keychron V5 Max will never miss a beat, no matter how many buttons you press!
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Typing Noise
Typing noise is the soundtrack to your keyboarding experience — whether you like a satisfying click-clack or a smooth, quiet hum, it sets the tone for your day. If you're working in a shared office space or a hotel lobby, you'll appreciate quiet, non-distracting keypresses that are less disruptive to the overall vibe. On the other hand, if you're working from the comfort of your home or private office, it may be fun to enjoy more audible feedback. To assess sound, we rate the quality of the sound while our decibel reader ranks the overall volume.
The quietest models are those with scissor switches, like the K585, POP Icon Keys, Pebble Keys 2, and MX Keys S, which measured in at a mere 34-35 decibels. The click is just barely audible and nearly undistinguishable over common office chatter, though the K585's rattly spacebar reminded us of a rattlesnake warning. The Omoton and Apple are slightly louder but still have a neutral sound profile that didn't detract from our typing experience.
Unmute the sound for these videos — the MX Keys S has a subtle “clacky” sound that lies somewhere in between rich and full and hollow and thin.
Credit: Austin Palmer
On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have loud mechanical keyboards, like the Razer Pro Type Ultra, Keychron V5 Max, and Nuphy Air75 V2, which emit 47-50 decibels of sound. We didn't mind the slightly hollow, thocky sound of the Razer, but the clacky sound of the Nuphy made typing less enjoyable. The Keychron's richer, creamy sound had mixed results. Some of us loved it, while others said, “Eh, it's not life-changing.”
Despite its louder 46-decibel volume level, two of our three testers loved the satisfyingly rich sound of the Keydous. The alphanumerical keys have a traditional “clack,” while the large space bar has a “thock” sound.
Credit: Austin Palmer
Convenience
Many wireless keyboards have added features that can level up your typing game. From multi-device connectivity for multitasking to compact, space-saving layouts for travel, some keyboards bring added convenience to your fingertips. Need to continue working after hours? A backlight can save you lost time searching for keys in low light conditions. Need to enhance efficiency? Customizable key functions can help you speed up tasks with shortcuts. Some keyboards even let you swap out the switches or keycaps for a truly personalized typing experience.
Most pricey mechanical keyboards are jam-packed with added convenience features. For example, the Keychron V5 Max, Keydous NJ80-AP, Nuphy Air75 V2, and Razer Pro Type Ultra all offer a slew of connection types, convenient USB dongle storage, the ability to connect up to five devices on any operating system, and a backlight. However, not all dongle storages are built alike, and the poor magnetic compartment on the Keydous left us constantly losing the transceiver.
Helpful Features
Connection Types
Dongle Storage
# of Devices
Backlighting
Keychron V5 Max
Wired
Wireless
Bluetooth
Up to 5
3 BT,1 wireless, 1 wired
Razer Pro Type Ultra
Wired
Wireless
Bluetooth
Up to 5
3 BT,1 wireless, 1 wired
Nuphy Air75 V2
Wired
Wireless
Bluetooth
Up to 5
3 BT, 1 wireless, 1 wired
Logitech MK270
Wireless
1
✖
Keydous NJ80 AP
Wired
Wireless
Bluetooth
Up to 5
3 BT,1 wireless, 1 wired
Arteck 2.4G Ultra Slim
Wireless
✖
1
✖
Omoton Ultra-Slim
Bluetooth
N/A
1
✖
You can also customize the switch type, backlight, and key functions on the Nuphy, Keychron, and Keydous. A nifty volume knob on the Keydous and Kechron lets you fine-tune your media audio levels with a fun, fantastical flair.
We found the Logi Options+ software intuitive and a great resource for customizing keys to help increase our productivity. For those not used to software for keyboards, this system is an easy step towards a more productive tool for your work.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Budget keyboards going slim on the bonus features include the Arteck HW192, Logitech MK270, and Omoton. Each of these keyboards only offers one connection type and lacks a backlight and any customizability. The Arteck and Logitech work best on Windows, while the Omoton has a Mac layout. All three are best suited for users needing a cheap, barebones keyboard to just do the essentials.
A backlight might not be a necessity, but it sure is nice to look at. If you frequently work in the dark, a backlight will help you navigate in the night.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
An overall small size can be an added convenience when portability is a top priority. The lightest keyboards in our lineup include the Omoton (8 ounces), Apple (13 ounces), K380s (15 ounces), and Arteck (15 ounces) and Pebble (15 ounces).
However, the Omoton's and Pebble's compact, 75% keyboard layout makes them better suited for travel. At just 11 inches long and 5 inches wide, the Omoton and Pebble are nearly the same size, but the Pebble's ultra-slim, flat design gives it an edge, allowing it to pack away in even the most cluttered backpacks easily. With the smaller design, though, comes little added frills, like no backlight or USB dongle storage, and fewer media control buttons.
Compact models offer greater portability than full-size models because their smaller design makes them easier to tote around and takes up less precious desk space.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
How to Choose a Wireless Keyboard
Shopping for a keyboard can be a daunting task. With the sheer number of products available on the market, it can be difficult to understand which features you need and which you can go without. Below, we outline important design features to help you narrow down the field.
MultiOS users should prioritize a keyboard with dual Windows and Mac modifiers.
Credit: Jason Peters
What is The Intended Use?
The first question you'll want to answer is: What will the keyboard be used for? Are you using the keyboard in an office with large desk space? Do you frequently need to type numbers or use shortcut functions? Are you using the keyboard while traveling? Do you also want it to function for the occasional game? Defining the use of your keyboard will narrow down the features you need to look for.
When selecting a keyboard you want to consider the size of your workspace, how many devices you need to connect to, and what operating systems (Mac, PC, Linux) you intend to use.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
What Size Keyboard Suits You?
Keyboards come in all different sizes and layouts. Full-size layouts are usually feature-rich, including everything from loads of navigation buttons and hotkeys to a full number pad. If you have plenty of desk space and work with numbers all day, a full-size layout is your best bet. It is also great for those with larger hands or wide shoulders.
Compact keyboards are better for portability and ergonomics, while full-size keyboards generally offer more time-saving features.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
However, if you are using your keyboard on the go or have a smaller body size or workspace, a compact design is ideal. Compact models come in a few flavors, most notably: 80% (tenkeyless), 75% (most popular), and 65%. As you go lower in size, you lose features like the number pad, navigation keys, and function keys. The 75% size, most similar to a laptop, retains most of the functionality of its full-size counterpart in a space-saving layout.
Compact wireless keyboards keep your desk tidy and mouse within easy reach, but no 10-key pad means number crunching takes a bit longer.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
What Type of Connection Do You Need?
Wireless keyboards connect in one of two ways: Bluetooth or USB receiver. A Bluetooth-capable keyboard typically allows you to connect to phones and tablets in addition to computing devices. It takes a bit more time to set up than a USB receiver, but it's easier to swap between devices once they're paired. It also does not take up precious USB port space. The connection speed is usually slower than the USB radio frequency, but it should suffice for most applications.
Many Bluetooth keyboards allow users to conveniently swap between paired devices with the push of a button.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
However, if you want a hassle-free setup without complicated settings menus, a USB receiver is the way to go. Just plug and play. Gamers prefer its speedy connection, though a direct cable connection is even better. But be careful not to lose the receiver, as many keyboards lack a dedicated storage space.
It's very easy to misplace a USB receiver. Even though the Keydous has a dedicated magnetic storage space, it constantly falls out.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
What is Your Preferred Typing Feel?
A keyboard's overall feel and sound can greatly impact your typing efficiency and comfort. The shape and dimensions of the keycaps, as well as the behavior of the switches beneath the keycaps, all influence the experience. Curved, textured keys may minimize slip-offs, while flat, sleek keys may speak to the aesthetics of others.
The switches located beneath the keycaps, as well as the shape of the keycaps themselves, contribute to a satisfying typing experience that is incredibly user-dependent.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Switches are divided into three classes: membrane-dome, membrane-scissor, and mechanical. Dome switches, typically found in budget models, provide a soft, cushiony feel but lack the durability and responsiveness needed with heavy use. Mechanical switches, on the other hand, cost more but bring greater durability, tactile feedback, and an audible click with each keystroke. They are also highly customizable in nearly every aspect. Scissor-switches, like those found in most laptops, strike a nice balance, providing a tactile yet quiet keypress. If you're considering an ultra-slim keyboard, it probably has scissor switches.
Keyboards vary greatly in the sound and feel of the keys. Here, we sample the acoustics of three mechanical switch types: clicky (bottom), linear (middle), and tactile (tactile).
Credit: Matt Lighthart
What is Your Budget?
As with most electronics, you get what you pay for when it comes to wireless keyboards. If you are on a budget, compact models generally cost less. Additionally, full-size models with dedicated Mac or Windows functionality can sometimes save money. As you increase the price range, you'll notice more connectivity options, more customizations, and a higher-quality build.
Here's another money-saving tip: purchase a keyboard and mouse combo. Though a budget combo may not offer the high level of quality and amount of customizations you'd expect from more expensive items, they may be all you need, especially for more infrequent use.
No matter your typing needs, we've got you covered.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Conclusion
In the modern age, wireless technology not only makes your desk space less cluttered and more streamlined, but it also allows you to have your setup with you wherever you go. Whether you're looking for a small keyboard to use with your tablet or need one at your desk that can switch seamlessly between multiple devices, we're confident our review will help you find a budget-friendly keyboard that is perfect for your needs.
