Like a musician’s finely tuned instrument, the right keyboard can elevate your PC experience from run-of-the-mill to something sublime. Sure, any keyboard can handle basic internet needs and word processing, but as you start to do more with your PC at work or play, you might realize you need a new one. That's where PCMag comes in. Our ever-changing list of favorite keyboards is accompanied by each one's pros, cons, and specs. It's organized by category, including the best keyboards for gaming, for the office, and for tight budgets. At the moment, our favorite general-use keyboard for most buyers is the Razer Pro Type Ultra, but you'll also find nine other recommended keyboards to choose from, all of which we stand behind. Rest assured: We've left no stone unturned and no key uncapped.
Overview
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![Razer Pro Type Ultra]()
Best Keyboard for Most UsersRazer Pro Type Ultra
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![Cherry KC 200 MX]()
Best Wired Office/Productivity KeyboardCherry KC 200 MX
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![Dell KB900 Premier Collaboration Keyboard]()
Best Wireless Office/Productivity KeyboardDell KB900 Premier Collaboration Keyboard
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![Dell Wired Collaboration Keyboard (KB525C)]()
Best Budget Office/Productivity KeyboardDell Wired Collaboration Keyboard (KB525C)
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![Be Quiet Light Mount]()
Best Wired Gaming KeyboardBe Quiet Light Mount
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![Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard]()
Best Wireless Gaming KeyboardAlienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard
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![Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless]()
Best Tenkeyless KeyboardCorsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless
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![Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard]()
Best Mac Keyboard (Non-Apple)Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard
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![Asus ROG Falcata]()
Best Ergonomic KeyboardAsus ROG Falcata
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![Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%]()
Best DIY/Customizable Mechanical KeyboardRazer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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![Razer Pro Type Ultra]()
Best Keyboard for Most UsersRazer Pro Type Ultra
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Razer is a brand that’s synonymous with PC gaming, but the company took those fundamentals and applied them to an office keyboard. The Razer Pro Type Ultra, its second office effort, comes complete with faster switches, a much-improved battery, and a padded wrist rest, going above and beyond its predecessor's already impressive feature set.
You also get sculpted soft-touch keycaps and hinged feet, but the real stars of the show are the Razer Yellow switches, which have a shallow, linear feel. They still give off that clickety-clack that typists love, but it’s more subtle and subdued. And with a promised 80 million presses as a durability rating on each key, you won’t have to worry about replacing the Razer Pro Type Ultra for a long time.
Who It’s For
People looking for a keyboard for work and play: The Pro Type Ultra checks many of the boxes we look for in a productivity keyboard: Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, long battery life, and satisfying, comfortable keystrokes. And you can also feel confident in putting the keyboard through its paces with a few rounds of your favorite first-person shooter.
People who like white peripherals: How many black and gray keyboards must we contend with before people realize that we like a little variety in our keyboards? The Pro Type Ultra's all-white color scheme makes it an eye-catching computer accessory.
Specs & Configurations
Interface Bluetooth Interface RF Wireless Key Backlighting Single-Color Key Switch Type Razer Yellow (Low Volume Linear) Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 104 Palm Rest Detachable (Separate) Passthrough Ports None Learn More Razer Pro Type Ultra Review -
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Credit: Joseph Maldonado
![Cherry KC 200 MX]()
Best Wired Office/Productivity KeyboardCherry KC 200 MX
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Whether you’re working at home or commuting to the office, you’ll likely be typing away on your keyboard all day. But at times, dealing with a keyboard's many functions can be a pain, adding needless frustration to your day. Enter the Cherry KC 200 MX. This full-size board comes equipped with Cherry's latest key switch release, the Cherry MX2A. But that's not all: the board also offers ample comfort when typing, while providing a hardy, satisfying click with every button press. Even nicer is its affordable sub-$100 price.
Who It's For
Office workers who don't want to cut the cord: The Cherry KC 200 MX is a match for office workers who are looking to upgrade to a high-quality, no-nonsense, productivity-focused keyboard. It's a perfect balance between elite productivity keyboards and enthusiast-grade boards that focus on feel and aesthetics.
Budget buyers: The Cherry KC 200 MX retails for $99, but sales often bring it down even further, making it a great purchase for someone looking for a quality keyboard for under $100.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface USB Wired Key Backlighting None Key Switch Type Cherry MX2A Silent Red Media Controls None N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 108 Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None Learn More Cherry KC 200 MX Review -
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![Dell KB900 Premier Collaboration Keyboard]()
Best Wireless Office/Productivity KeyboardDell KB900 Premier Collaboration Keyboard
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Dell KB9000 Premier Collaboration Keyboard is perfect for office and productivity-minded folks looking for a keyboard that can do it all without a cord. The comfortable, low-profile keyboard features silent keys, a proximity-sensing backlight, and additional functionality designed to work with Zoom. It's a top-quality wireless control center, whether you’re working at home or commuting to the office.
Who It's For
Office workers who need a wireless option: The Dell KB9000 Premier Collaboration Keyboard is a perfect match for on-the-go office workers looking for a daily driver that can handle hectic workdays and connect to multiple devices.
Zoom users: The Dell KB9000 Premier Collaboration Keyboard features additional shortcut keys for Zoom, helping optimize video calls and keep users productive.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface 2.4 GHz Wireless Interface Bluetooth Key Backlighting Single-Color Key Switch Type Scissor-Switch Media Controls Shared With Other Keys Number of Keys 109 Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None -
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![Dell Wired Collaboration Keyboard (KB525C)]()
Best Budget Office/Productivity KeyboardDell Wired Collaboration Keyboard (KB525C)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Dell Wired Collaboration Keyboard (KB525C) doesn’t offer the comfort of premium mechanical switches, but its low-profile design looks good while still providing a reasonably comfortable typing feel. You'll also find dedicated keys for convenient shortcuts and media controls. The keyboard supports both USB-C and USB-A wired connections.
Plus, the KB525C has plenty of functionality and customizability that help it stand out against other productivity keyboards at a fraction of the price. The board has 15 customizable keys, a surprising amount for a productivity-minded daily driver. (You can adjust the keys' functionality using the Dell Peripheral Manager app.)
Who It's For
Budget buyers: Dell's Wired Collaboration Keyboard (KB525C) is a perfect match for those looking for a budget board that covers basic word processing needs and amps up productivity with easy key tweaks. It's a cost-effective upgrade from a typical desktop-bundled board for home or office use.
People who prefer a wired keyboard: If you're not interested in cutting the cord, you'll find this keyboard to be one of the finest low-cost wired models available.
Specs & Configurations
Interface USB Wired Key Backlighting None Key Switch Type Rubber Membrane Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 109 Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None -
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![Be Quiet Light Mount]()
Best Wired Gaming KeyboardBe Quiet Light Mount
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
For gamers and typists alike, Be Quiet's Light Mount blends hushed keystrokes, finger comfort, and smart design into a standout wired mechanical keyboard. Proprietary silent switches deliver brand-consistent whispery keystrokes while maintaining a pleasant level of resistance to make typing feel satisfying. The keyboard doesn’t offer a ton of extras, but that's a good thing because the lack of shiny doodads keeps the price down. Ultimately, the Light Mount does what it’s supposed to do extraordinarily well: be pleasant to type on and, well, quiet.
Who It's For
Gamers who like custom RGB lighting: With Be Quiet's IO Center, you can fully customize your Light Mount experience. The software offers all the usual features one expects from a keyboard utility, with a simple, approachable layout, and the available RGB patterns are sure to mesmerize.
People who don't like loud typing: It's right there in the name. This peripheral's linear switches result in ultra-sensitive, unimpeded keystrokes that won't disturb co-workers or wake the sleeping baby in the next room.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface USB Wired Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Be Quiet Silent Tactile Switches Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 110 Palm Rest Detachable (Magnetic) Passthrough Ports None Learn More Be Quiet Light Mount Review -
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![Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard]()
Best Wireless Gaming KeyboardAlienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard may be pricey, but it's worth the price of admission for all that it does. New Alienware key switches join a sleek, clean design that's compact enough to fit most desk spaces, defining this gaming keyboard as a master of its class. Plus, hot-swappable key switches and a high polling rate leave a lot of room for both tinkerers and gamers to take full control of their games and their typing feel. The options for 2.4GHz RF, Bluetooth, and wired connectivity give the keyboard some flexibility, too. This customizable keyboard is sure to be a perfect fit for work and play alike.
Who It's For
Gamers: The Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard looks, feels, and sounds good. It is an excellent wireless input device for discerning enthusiasts, budding keyboard DIY-ers, and casual gamers alike.
People who care about aesthetics: The all-white keyboard paired with stunning RGB light makes for an impressive desktop ornament.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface 2.4 GHz Wireless Interface Bluetooth Interface USB-C Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Alienware Linear Mechanical Switches Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 83 Onboard Profile Storage Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None -
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![Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless]()
Best Tenkeyless KeyboardCorsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Who says a tiny keyboard can’t be esports-ready? The Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless may be smaller than your average keyboard, but it comes with tons of customization options. With both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless options, gorgeous RGB lighting, and hot-swappable key switches, the Corsair K70 Pro Mini comes equipped to please both casual gamers and pros looking to save desk space.
In this model, like others in the 60% class, most of a full-size keyboard's functions are still intact, absorbed into other keys on the keyboard and accessed via key combinations. Plus: Create up to 50 profiles in Corsair's iCue software to tweak just about everything for the ideal gaming or typing experience.
Who It's For
On-the-go gamers: The Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless is as small as keyboards come, yet still offers standard-size keys and many connection options. If you like to bring your own gaming gear with you wherever you go, the Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless is a great choice.
Gamers who care about polling rates: Not every gamer knows or cares about the benefits of high polling rates, but if you do, the Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless has you covered at up to 8,000Hz.
Specs & Configurations
Interface Bluetooth Interface RF Wireless Interface USB-C Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Cherry MX Speed Silver Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 61 Onboard Profile Storage Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None Learn More Corsair K70 RGB Pro Mini Wireless Review -
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![Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard]()
Best Mac Keyboard (Non-Apple)Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Macs might be the first choice for designers and creators looking for processing power and stylish designs, but let's be real: They’re hardly what we’d call affordable, and that goes for Mac accessories, too. So why not spend a little less on a superior product? The $99 Satechi SM1 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard looks the part of any other Apple accessory, and it blows the Apple Magic Keyboard out of the water in terms of feel and functionality. You get satisfying and clicky keys, attractive backlighting, plenty of connectivity options, and—most important—software that's compatible with macOS, something that's still not as common as you’d imagine.
Who It's For
Apple users looking for a Magic Keyboard alternative: This one is for Apple fans who don't like Apple's low-profile scissor switches. Sure, it’s missing Touch ID, but it makes up for that with comfortable key switches, exceptional build quality, and a compact design. It's an easy recommendation and one of the best Mac keyboards you can buy.
People who want connectivity options: Jumping between a desktop, a laptop, and a mobile device can be a hassle with some keyboards, but not with the Satechi SM1, which pairs with up to four devices at once.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface 2.4 GHz Wireless Interface Bluetooth Interface USB-C Key Backlighting Single-Color Key Switch Type Low Profile Brown Switches Media Controls Shared With Other Keys N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 84 Palm Rest None Passthrough Ports None -
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Credit: Joseph Maldonado
![Asus ROG Falcata]()
Best Ergonomic KeyboardAsus ROG Falcata
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Ergonomics is an oft-overlooked aspect of keyboard shopping. Poor ergonomics can lead to fatigue and even injury, so why not consider our favorite ergonomic keyboard, the Asus ROG Falcata? With hot-swappable key switches and per-key customizable RGB lighting, the Asus ROG Falcata is a pleasure to use, whether you're gaming or just typing through the workday. Its split design means it can operate as a single keyboard or as two separate working parts, placed up to about 8 inches apart. It takes time to adjust to a split layout, especially if you're new to one, but once you're over the hurdle, it's second to none.
Who It's For
People looking for an ergonomic keyboard: If you've ever been interested in keyboard ergonomics, the Asus ROG Falcata is one of the best keyboards you can buy. It excels as a tool that helps alleviate stress and pressure on your forearms, shoulders, and back by letting you angle your appendages optimally relative to your body.
Experienced split-keyboard users: While the Asus ROG Falcata is an expensive option, we believe it's a great choice for those already accustomed to the learning curve of a split keyboard.
Specs & Configurations
Interface 2.4GHz Wireless Interface Bluetooth Interface USB-C Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Asus ROG HFX V2 Media Controls Volume Roller Only N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 80 Onboard Profile Storage Palm Rest Optional Passthrough Ports None Learn More Asus ROG Falcata Review -
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![Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%]()
Best DIY/Customizable Mechanical KeyboardRazer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
With a compact design and hot-swappable key switches, the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% courts the hardest of hard-core keyboard junkies among us, and does so with trademark Razer style. A plush wrist rest, an ergonomic design, and tons of functionality make it a perfect choice for casual users and gamers alike. The keyboard is pure gaming luxury; you may not want to change a thing about it. Ultra-stable key switches (thanks to box stabilizers), per-key RGB lighting, and an OLED control panel sweeten the deal.
But what sets it apart from other keyboards is how easy it is to customize to your liking, both inside and out. Considering the quality and ease of customization, it’s a no-brainer for those looking both for top-shelf components and an on-ramp to the growing keyboard-DIY world.
Who It's For
Users new to keyboard customization: You'll get your money's worth even if you're just looking for a keyboard to type with, but if you've ever been interested in the world of keyboard customization, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is a great place to start.
Enthusiasts: The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is an expensive keyboard, but enthusiasts looking for the best of the best for all their typing needs will love it.
Specs & Configurations
Dedicated Shortcut Keys Interface 2.4 GHz Wireless Interface Bluetooth Interface USB Wired Key Backlighting RGB Per-Key Key Switch Type Razer Orange Tactile Mechanical Key Switch Gen-3 Media Controls Via integrated screen N-Key Rollover Support Number of Keys 81 Onboard Profile Storage Palm Rest Detachable (Magnetic) Passthrough Ports None Learn More Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% Review -
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Best For | Best Keyboard for Most Users | Best Wired Office/Productivity Keyboard | Best Wireless Office/Productivity Keyboard | Best Budget Office/Productivity Keyboard | Best Wired Gaming Keyboard | Best Wireless Gaming Keyboard | Best Tenkeyless Keyboard | Best Mac Keyboard (Non-Apple) | Best Ergonomic Keyboard | Best DIY/Customizable Mechanical Keyboard | Best Keyboard for Most Users | Best Wired Office/Productivity Keyboard | Best Wireless Office/Productivity Keyboard |
Number of Keys | 104 | 108 | 109 | 109 | 110 | 83 | 61 | 84 | 80 | 81 | 104 | 108 | 109 |
Interface | RF Wireless, Bluetooth | USB Wired | Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz Wireless | USB Wired | USB Wired | USB-C, 2.4 GHz Wireless, Bluetooth | USB-C, Bluetooth, RF Wireless | Bluetooth, USB-C, 2.4 GHz Wireless | 2.4GHz Wireless, Bluetooth, USB-C | USB Wired, Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz Wireless | RF Wireless, Bluetooth | USB Wired | Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz Wireless |
Key Switch Type | Razer Yellow (Low Volume Linear) | Cherry MX2A Silent Red | Scissor-Switch | Rubber Membrane | Be Quiet Silent Tactile Switches | Alienware Linear Mechanical Switches | Cherry MX Speed Silver | Low Profile Brown Switches | Asus ROG HFX V2 | Razer Orange Tactile Mechanical Key Switch Gen-3 | Razer Yellow (Low Volume Linear) | Cherry MX2A Silent Red | Scissor-Switch |
Key Backlighting | Single-Color | None | Single-Color | None | RGB Per-Key | RGB Per-Key | RGB Per-Key | Single-Color | RGB Per-Key | RGB Per-Key | Single-Color | None | Single-Color |
Media Controls | Shared With Other Keys | None | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | Shared With Other Keys | Volume Roller Only | Via integrated screen | Shared With Other Keys | None | Shared With Other Keys |
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Passthrough Ports | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None |
Palm Rest | Detachable (Separate) | None | None | None | Detachable (Magnetic) | None | None | None | Optional | Detachable (Magnetic) | Detachable (Separate) | None | None |
Buying Guide: The Best Keyboards for 2026
Maybe your trusty old keyboard has typed its last letter or trapped its last bagel crumb. Perhaps your gaming ambitions have outstripped the mushy, mediocre typer that came with your PC. Or maybe your aching hands are shouting Hey, cut me some slack here! Whatever the reason, anyone can benefit from a better keyboard.
Before you go shopping, however, it pays to know what makes a keyboard a good fit. Modern models come in a bunch of subtypes, from boards optimized for typing efficiency to sculpted ergonomic designs that cradle your hands and relieve stress on the joints. Let's dig into the features to look for.
Do I Need a Wired Keyboard, or a Wireless One?
The simplest way to connect a keyboard to your PC is to plug its cable into a USB port. Non-gaming keyboards are usually plug-and-play devices, with no additional software to install, so connecting the cable is all the setup you'll need. Gaming keyboards, by contrast, will typically work as soon as you plug them in, but most come with their own software that lets you adjust features such as onboard RGB lighting and the assignment of macro keys. (More on that in a minute.) Some cheaper gaming models may lack software and handle key backlighting and macros/shortcuts wholly through hardware.
Besides transferring your keystrokes to the computer, a USB connection also powers the keyboard, so there are no batteries to worry about. Some premium gaming models with lots of customizable buttons and lights come with two USB cables, one for power delivery (and/or to feed an extra USB port or ports on the keyboard itself) and one for your data connection. This isn't usually a problem, since you'll likely be connecting one of these keyboards to a large gaming desktop with many available USB ports.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)If you want more freedom and less cable clutter on your desk, however, it's hard to beat a wireless keyboard. Wireless models transmit data to your PC through one of two primary means: an RF connection to a small dongle plugged into one of your PC's USB ports, or a Bluetooth connection with no dongles required. Each has its pros and cons. But if you want to reduce the number of cables on your desk and gain the flexibility to use your keyboard at a distance—whether it be in your lap at your desk or across the room—wireless is the way to go.
Most wireless keyboards that use USB dongles transmit over the same 2.4GHz wireless frequency used for cordless phones and Wi-Fi routers. The dongle itself is usually a tiny rectangle—small enough to plug in and forget about. Not only is the dongle unobtrusive, but we find that the 2.4GHz signal tends to offer more stable connectivity than Bluetooth. Some manufacturers' USB dongles can control more than one device, meaning you can use a single adapter (and USB port) for both a wireless keyboard and wireless mouse, invariably from the same vendor. (Logitech, for example, refers to this setup as Logitech Unifying technology.)
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Bluetooth connections make sense in certain situations; they don't monopolize a USB port, and newer versions of Bluetooth are stable, easy to manage, and offer compatibility with additional mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. In regular use, a Bluetooth connection gives you roughly 30 feet of wireless range, though we find that Bluetooth wireless keyboards tend to have briefer battery life than USB dongle devices. However, new innovations such as hand-proximity sensors boost battery life compared to older Bluetooth products, whose always-on link drained batteries quickly.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Among the few major drawbacks of mainstream wireless keyboards is that few of them feature key backlighting, which hampers one of their most useful roles: playing games, typing emails, or controlling a home theater PC in a dim den or living room. If you do find a wireless model with backlighting, be prepared to change its batteries or recharge it frequently.
What Kind of Keyboard Layout Makes Sense for Me?
Not all keyboards are created equal. In fact, not all keyboards are even laid out the same (and we're not referring to the standard QWERTY key layout versus the Dvorak arrangement of some early ergonomic models).
Most mainstream and gaming keyboards offer a 10-key numeric keypad at right. Rarely found on laptops smaller than 15.6 inches, keypads are a necessity for anyone who frequently tallies numbers or enters data into a spreadsheet. So-called tenkeyless or TKL models, especially popular in the gaming keyboard segment, slice off the numeric pad in the interest of saving desk space and keeping your typing and mousing hands closer together. If you want to go even smaller, so-called 60% keyboards eliminate even more extra keys. Check out our 60% keyboard guide for everything you need to know about them.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Smaller distinctions include the placement of the cursor directional arrows and Home, End, Page Up, and Page Down keys. Additionally, most current keyboards have basic media-control features such as volume, play/pause, and next/previous track keys. These are typically dedicated buttons located above the numeric pad or built into the top row of function (Fn) keys as shared-key shortcuts. Bonus points if a keyboard maker implements the volume control as a dial or roller, as seen on some high-end Corsair, Das Keyboard, and HyperX models.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)If you prefer an unusual keyboard layout or just want to switch up a key or two, you may want to remap your keyboard. Our guide to keyboard remapping on Windows explains how to go about doing that.
To help stave off carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive stress injury, many keyboards are available with designs that put your hands into a neutral position as you type. The result is not only greater comfort, but reduced stress to joints and tendons, ultimately helping you avoid painful inflammation and the potential for expensive surgery. Ergonomic features can range from the simple (padded wrist rests) to the elaborate (a key layout sculpted to curve and slope, or a split design).
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)One very important ergonomic feature to look for is the ability to perform angle adjustment. This is usually accomplished by folding or flipping two plastic feet on the back of the keyboard to alter its angle relative to your wrists and forearms. Many keyboards—not only models designed specifically to be ergonomic—have these feet, and research has shown that the traditional uphill tilt is actually not ergonomically ideal. It's better to experiment with them until your keyboard is flat or even angled slightly away from your wrists. (See our guide to ergonomic keyboards.)
What Kind of Key Switch Should I Get?
One aspect of keyboard design that you'll often see mentioned in reviews—but about which most folks don't give a second thought—is the type of switches used for individual keys. You may not care about the specific mechanisms that reside beneath the keys, but you will feel the difference when typing. The three primary types are silicone dome switches, scissor switches, and mechanical switches.
Most budget keyboards, such as those that come bundled with new desktops, use silicone-dome switches. These use two dimpled layers of silicone membrane that form a grid of rubber bubbles or domes as the springback for each key. The springiness of the silicone rubber makes for a soft, mushy feel as you press the keys. This switch type also requires you to "bottom out" with each keystroke, pressing the key to its fullest travel or bottom of the key well to type a letter. Because repeated flexing of the rubber membrane causes it to eventually break down, silicone dome switches lose their springiness and responsiveness over time.
Some newer keyboards mimic the low-profile, chiclet-style keyboards found on full-size laptops and ultraportables. While a few of these use silicone-dome switches, many use scissor switches, which add a mechanical stabilizer to each key for a more uniform feel and an attached plunger under each keycap that allows shorter key travel. As a result, scissor-switch keyboards have a shallow typing feel but are generally more durable than rubber-dome switches alone.
The Elite Choice: Should I Get a Mechanical Keyboard?
Most keyboard enthusiasts, however, won't have much to say for either of the two above styles. Instead, they'll be singing the praises of mechanical keyboards.
The switches used in these are more intricate, with a spring-loaded sliding keypost beneath each key. Lots of variations are available (see our guide to choosing among mechanical switches), each tweaked to provide a slightly different feel or sound, but, generally speaking, mechanical switches provide the best tactile feedback, and many emit the "clickety-clack" sound long associated with typing. Their sturdy switch mechanisms and springs are significantly longer-lasting, too. Mechanical switches can also register keystrokes with a much shorter amount of travel, making them ideal for touch typists.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)The downside to mechanical switches? They usually require more vertical space than silicone-dome or scissor switches, which means mechanical keyboards tend to be thicker. You won't often find them on shallower, low-profile keyboards. That might change now that venerable switch maker Cherry AG has introduced low-profile mechanical switches (so have some of its competitors), but the vast majority of mechanicals are relatively chunky.
In the past, most mainstream mechanical keyboards made use of Cherry MX switches offered in Blue, Red, Black, and Brown varieties. (Each "color" has a slightly different click feel, acoustic aspect, and pressure requirement; see our roundup of the best mechanical keyboards for a lot more detail.) Cherry switches are still extremely popular, but you'll also see house-brand mechanical switches from leading keyboard makers such as Logitech and Razer, as well as "imitation Cherry" switches using the same color schemes from makers such as Kaihua.
What Should I Look for in a Gaming Keyboard?
While all keyboards offer the necessary QWERTY layout of keys for everyday typing, sometimes typing isn't your main concern. Gaming keyboards are designed for competitive use and emphasize things office keyboards don't.
Gaming boards are equipped for maximum specialization and control, optimized for specific styles of gameplay, and built to exacting standards of responsiveness and durability. They also appeal to the gaming aesthetic with designs that impress and intimidate with pulsing backlighting and dramatic RGB color schemes.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Premium gaming models almost exclusively use high-grade mechanical key switches and sculpted keycaps, and offer scads of customizable features such as programmable macro keys, textured WASD keys, and swappable keycaps. Others let you tweak the color and intensity of the backlighting to make finding certain keys faster and personalize the look of your keyboard. Cheaper boards usually have just one color of backlight, but as you move upmarket you find programmable RGB lighting customizable by zone or even by individual key (so-called "per-key RGB").
Anti-ghosting is an essential feature, allowing a keyboard to register multiple keystrokes hit at the same time—a feat not all standard keyboards can perform. Other extras include USB pass-through ports or audio connections that simplify the process of connecting peripherals or headphones to a desktop PC whose ports may be inconvenient to reach under a desk.
Finally, any gaming keyboard worthy of the name comes with dedicated software and discrete keys for triggering macro commands, letting you save and play back complex strings of commands with a single keypress. The number of macro commands you can save, and the ease with which you can create them, varies from one model to the next; our reviews are handy for summaries of this kind of software. These aren't the sorts of customization features that everyone will use day to day, but for players who invest time and money into gaming, these keyboards offer a competitive edge. Again, check out our guide to gaming keyboards for more on gaming software.
So, Which Keyboard Should I Buy?
The keyboard market is vast, so start your search with our picks outlined up top of the best keyboards available. In the market for a mouse, too? Check out our top mouse picks, as well as our favorite mice for gaming and our top wireless mouse picks.