Computer Keyboard Buying Guide: Upgrade Your Typing Experience in 2025

Did you know that in today’s tech-driven landscape, a quality keyboard with high-quality features does much more than typing alone? It saves you from many health issues like physical discomfort and strain on wrists and provides a wealth of benefits, including improved comfort and faster typing speed. But, not all the keyboards are equally valued. There are countless types, lots of brands, and innumerable features to choose from. So, you need a practical road map. To provide you with that, I have compiled this computer keyboard buying guide for you. It includes the keyboard types, the top brands to choose from, and essential things to consider when buying your perfect keyboard.

You may scroll straight to the most popular keybaord brands and top models and most important factors to consider when choosing a keybaord.

Before we begin, you should ask yourself a question – What is the intent behind purchasing a computer keyboard?

Are you buying the computer keyboard for office use?
Do you need this for gaming?
Is it for programming?
Will you be using it for general use, like typing and browsing?
Do you need multimedia rich support?

Types of Computer Keyboards

There are many types of computer keyboards, each with unique elements – let’s divide all those types into the following categories:

Types of Keyboards based on switch technology.
Types of Keyboards based on form factor.
Types of keyboards based on connectivity.
Types of keyboards based on modern features.

Types of Computer Keyboards based on switch technology

The first category is switch technology. The switch technology in general means how keybaord keys communicte with the rest of the keyboard hardware – what happens (and how) when you press a key on your keyboard.

Membrane keyboards

A membrane keyboard is one of the most popular computer keyboards, offering many benefits to its users. You’ll discover a membrane layer beneath the keys in these keyboards. This layer is flexible and thin. This means that users can experience the soft key press. These keyboards are inexpensive; hence, you’ll find more budget-friendly options. Compared to mechanical computer keyboards, these are known for a relatively quieter typing experience. If you’re going to buy a keyboard for the office or any shared workspace, consider purchasing a membrane. Shortly, membrane keyboards are ideal for:

Home use,
Educational institutions,
Office and work environment,
General-purpose use.

Image showing membrane keyboard membrane layer — Keyboard membrane layer

Mechanical keyboards

Famous for its sturdiness and praised for its durability, this type of keyboard, known as a mechanical keyboard, is also appreciated by many users. In this type of keyboard, you’ll notice that each key features a separate mechanical switch. It provides tactile feedback. Moreover, pressing its keys emits an audible sound.

Here, the users require a slightly stronger press than the others. However, at the same time, such keyboards reduce the possibility of mistyping. Moreover, such computer keyboards are well-suited for individuals who type extensively each day. Mechanical keyboards are best suited for following users:

Gamers,
Programmers,
Writers,
Creative Professionals,
Tech enthusiasts.

Partial view of mechanical keyboard with some keycaps took off — Mechanical keyboard

Optical keyboards

Keyboards of this type are also gaining fame because of their specific unique attributes. They are distinctive from others because of the optical switch technology. Less key bounce, quiet operation, and lower latency are some of the defining characteristics of optical keyboards. These are ideal for the following users:

Ideal for the gamers and tech enthusiasts.
Optimal for the eSports players.
Users who prefer precision and speed.
People seeking quiet, non-membrane keyboards.

Magnetic Keyboards

Magnetic keyboards have their own characteristics. In these keyboards, you’ll discover the magnetic key switch technology. The reduced key bounce, low power consumption, and smooth key travel are some of the things that differentiate these keyboards from the rest. Furthermore, magnetic keyboards are highly suitable for these people:

People who prefer durability.
Work well for the gamers.
Users in shared workspaces.
It is suitable for programmers and writers as well.

Types of Computer keyboards based on connectivity

Regarding the keyboard types related to connectivity, we generally have wired and wireless keyboards. So, let’s explore their unique elements.

Wireless Keyboard

Wireless keyboards are also gaining popularity these days. Unlike other keyboards, these require no wire connection. In other words, they connect to the computer without relying on a cable. Instead, these keyboards run on battery, need Bluetooth or a dongle. The most significant benefit you can enjoy from this type of keyboard is that it’s portable and more flexible. Below are the ideal users for these keyboards.

Those who have limited desk space
It is a good option for minimalists, travelers, and gamers
Users who have multi-device setup
Effective for multimedia control

Wired Keyboards

Unlike wireless keyboards, wired keyboards do not depend on wireless signals and batteries. You need a wire or cable to connect the keyboard to your device. Let’s look at some of the common types of cables below.

USB-C to USB-C cable
USB-A to USB-B Cable
USB-A to USB-C Cable
Micro-USB to USB-A Cable
Detachable Cable
Dual USB Cable
PS/2 Cable

Wireless keyboards provide a reliable and stable connection. Moreover, these are easy to use and praised for their constant performance. Wired keyboards are ideal for following users.

Those who desire uninterrupted experience.
Professional typists and office workers.
Users in areas with high levels of interference.

Types of Computer keyboards based on form factor

Many types of computer keyboards fall into the category of form factor. These are highlighted below.

Compact keyboards

Do you want a portable keyboard that is smaller in size? Compact keyboards are great for you, as many users like them because of their reduced layout. These have good features but are distinguished from others because they lack an extra numeric pad. Sometimes, navigation or function keys are missing. It’s a good option for these users.

Users with small workspace
People with ergonomic needs
Those who prefer portability

60% Keyboards

In this type of keyboard, you’ll find only essential keys, which makes it ideal for the minimalist setup. For instance, you’ll have a few modifier keys and alphabetic keys. Arrow keys and number pads don’t exist here. It’s not so big, so it has no portability issue. It’s recommended for the following people.

Exemplary for the gamers
Users with minimalist desk setup
People who require portability
Users who travel
Individuals who rarely need the numeric pad and function keys.

65% Keyboards

The 65% keyboard is another small factor keyboard. Very similiar to 60% in size, but has arrow keys additionally – which means 65% keyboard is essentailly 60% keyboard with arrow keys (or the other way around). If you are looking for a small keyboard but need to have arrow keys, this one could be a good fit for you. It’s recommended for the following people.

Exemplary for the gamers.
Users with minimalist desk setup.
People who require portability.
Individuals who rarely need the numeric pad and function keys.

TKL Keyboards

TKL keyboards or Tenkeyless keyboards are also attracting attention and popularity. The thing that set them aside from others is that TKL do not contain the numeric keypad. Simply we can say that the 10 key sections are missing in such keyboards. Furthermore, TKL are more portable, and space saving as compared to the standard size. Now, let’s see for whom these keyboards work well.

People who prefer a smaller size
For users for whom missing the numeric keypad isn’t a big issue,
These also work best for the gamers.
Those who opt for a more compact setup
Because of its portability option, TKL also suits to the travelers.

Spilt keyboards

These keyboards are composed of a dual-section layout. Split keyboards are built with two separate parts. These keyboards that are split into two sections assist in improving the position of hands and wrists, and such keyboards are helpful for these people.

Individuals who spend lots of time typing
Those who are experiencing wrist or hand strain
Office workers, writers
Users seeking ergonomic solutions

Flexible keyboards

Flexible keyboards are great because they are easily transported, bendable, and often waterproof. Furthermore, these are usually made of silicon. It means these keyboards can be molded for easy storage. Compared to traditional keyboards, these have less key spacing. Hence, these keyboards will work best if space-saving and portability are your significant concerns. Let’s highlight who needs such keyboards.

Outdoor workers and travelers
Users in specialized work environments
Those who prefer durability

Ergonomic Keyboard

Ergonomic keyboards are extremely popular. They are optimized for hassle-free use and increasing productivity. Furthermore, their main aim is to alleviate strain and minimize pressure on the arms and wrists. So, they’re exemplary during prolonged typing because prolonged typing usually results in discomfort, fatigue, and strain.

But Ergonomic keyboards minimize the risks of these inconveniences. Their shape and form are excellent for a better, relaxed hand posture. Most ergonomic keyboards feature a gap separating two sets of keys. Let’s see who needs ergonomic ones.

Those who are struggling with hand or wrist soreness
People who spend lots of time typing
It can also be a good option for gamers and programmers

Types of keyboards based on modern features

With the rapid technological advancement, many new elements and features are being introduced in the keyboards. One of them is backlit, which is the result of tech advancement. These are gaining widespread popularity. So, let’s take a closer look at it.

Backlit keyboards

The demand and popularity of backlit keyboards are increasing day by day. In this type of keyboard, you’ll find lights beneath every key. These lights illuminate the keys. So, it’s ideal for those working in low-light and dark environments. The built-in LED lights enable the users to work in a dimly lit environment. These are:

Suitable for the night owls
Excellent for the gamers and coders
Perfect for those working in dimly lit rooms

Multimedia keyboards

Multimedia keybaords comes with additional controls/buttons to easily control volume, change track, etc. Those are usually used with smart-TVs, consoles and other multimedia device. Best for:

Smart TVs.
Consoles.
Casual use.

Popular Computer Keyboard Brands

Picking a suitable keyboard will create a big difference in your computing experience. There are lots of brands in the market competing for your typing experience. Here, we’ll have an overview of the top 12 keyboard brands.

CORSAIR

Corsair logo

CORSAIR is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a top-notch computer keyboard loaded with the highly versatile features of a computer keyboard specifically for gaming. Whether you’re looking for mechanical key switches, RGB lighting, premium build quality, programmable keys, or durability, you’ll be amazed by its distinctive attributes. Also, you need not get worried about the size as it offers multiple size options, including standard size, TKL keyboards, and 60% keyboards. The plus point is that, along with the gamers, its products also work for other professionals. Below are some of the top products.

Logitech

Logitech logo

Logitech meets all your specific needs. No. Whether you’re searching for a keyboard for office work, general use, or gaming, you’ll find excellent products. Logitech dominates the market for its reliability and aims to provide products that are appreciated because of their superb build quality. Furthermore, these keyboards are famous for their wireless and ergonomic designs. Some of Logitech’s popular keyboards are below.

HyperX

HyperX logo

HyperX is one of the leading brands in the market. It’s a gaming-focused brand, and most of its features are built with gamers’ preferences kept in mind. People love HyperX products because of their durability, ergonomic design, responsive key switches, and RGB lighting. The best thing is that it supplies many budget-friendly options as well.

Razer

Razer logo

Razer leads the market because its high-end gaming keyboards are available in different sizes. You’ll find endless customizable options here. Aspects like longevity, wired and wireless options, RGB lighting, mechanical key switches, and top-tier typing efficiency set Razer apart from the other brands.

DAS Keyboard

Das Keyboard logo

Das Keyboard has a commanding presence in the market. Customers hold its products in high esteem because of its premium material, remarkable designs, and standout features. The cutting-edge technology, reliability, flawless typing experience, outstanding performance, and tactile feedback make it rise above the others. Moreover, many of its products come with dedicated media controls. Das keyboards deliver exceptional results not only for gamers but also for other workers, including expert typists. Below are the products of this high-quality mechanical keyboard brand.

Keychron

Keychron logo

Keychron is also a popular name for producing keyboards and is famous for its exceptional features, such as the availability of different sizes and layouts. Its items are noted for their chic, sleek, and minimalist designs. In addition, the keyboards of this brand often boast hot-swappable switches. Also, they have options for wireless Bluetooth connectivity. Praised for their long battery life and elite performance, the top keyboards of this brand are here.

Microsoft

Microsoft logo

Microsoft continues to rule the market for its top-of-the-line keyboards. This brand designs traditional and ergonomic keyboards. Its primary intention is to provide customers with high-quality keyboards that support productivity, compatibility, and comfort.

KINESIS

Kinesis logo

KINESIS is also a reputable brand that fabricates performance-driven keyboards. Attributes like compact design, premium typing feel, unsurpassed longevity, and palm support give it an edge over others. Kinesis designs its keyboards with maximum comfort in mind. These keyboards are also convenient, easy to use, and boost productivity.

HP

HP logo

HP keyboards have a reputation in the market because of their stylish, reliable, and quality products. Users can enjoy the convenience of multimedia keys. Customers can get the keyboards in any style, such as standard, compact, or ergonomics. Infinite innovative features, including customizable backlighting and responsive keys, highlight their uniqueness.

Dell

Dell logo

Dell keyboards deliver items for both professional and personal use. So, it’s a go-to option for everyday use and office work. Here, you’ll discover both wired and wireless options. Moreover, the different key switches, smooth typing experience, and durability set it above the others.

Redragon

Redragon logo

Redragon is also an emerging brand committed to providing high-quality computer keyboards. RGB backlighting, dedicated media controls, a wide variety of models, mostly with affordable prices, and solid build quality are some of the characteristics that make this brand ideal specifically for gamers. Below are some of the top options of Redragon keyboards.

SteelSeries

SteelSeries logo

This brand offers keyboards equipped with multiple advanced characteristics. Moreover, these are explicitly optimized for gamers. You’ll find a wide variety of switch types in SteelSeries’ products. High performance, availability in different sizes, customization options, reliability, and top-tier durability are some attributes that set SteelSeries apart from the rest. Here are some of the premium items from this brand.

12 Most important features to consider when buying a computer keyboard

Now you’ve got an overview of the top brands, and it’s time to look at the aspects you should never ignore when purchasing a keyboard.

Keyboard layout is essential

We can define keyboard layout as the “structure and placement of keys on the keyboard.” In simple words, the keyboard layout highlights how the buttons, such as letters, punctuation marks, and numbers, are organized on the keyboard. The most popular keyboard layouts are QWERTY, AZERTY, DVORAK, COLEMARK, and QWERTZ.

The layout of your keyboard significantly impacts your overall performance. It has a direct impact on how you navigate your device. Furthermore, a keyboard layout confirms your typing efficiency. It determines smooth usability and comfort while using it. QWERTY is the standard design layout, as most users prefer buying it. Undoubtedly, all others have specific features and attributes, but this one is appreciated more.

The size of the Keyboard matters a lot

The selection of size depends generally on two aspects:

The space you have.
The portability you expect.

If you consider portability and don’t need a numeric pad more, smaller layouts like 60% might be better. However, the standard size is ideal for those who frequently use a numeric pad and type a lot and for whom there is no space issue. In some cases, full size keyboards are considered more comfortable to use, since the keycaps are not squezzed into small space.

Switch types carry great significance

Testing different switch types should also be the paramount consideration. There are multiple types of switches, each with its unique elements. The biggest diference is between membrane and mechanical keyboards. And then, when it comes to mechanical keyboards, we can generally categorize them into tactile, linear, and clicky switches.

Membrane keyboards have quiet keycaps which usually require less force than mechanical ones. Mechanical tactile switches contain a noticeable bump and also produce some noise. The linear switches feel smooth, with no noticeable bump, and because of soft key presses, they are quiet. Moreover, clicky switches sound loud, the keyboard with these switches features a tactile bump.

Manufacturing quality makes a difference

Build quality is one of the top things you should consider while purchasing a computer keyboard. Randomly picking a computer keyboard without considering its build quality can be a waste money. Make sure the keyboard’s material is high quality. Check out the weight, stability, sound, and feel.

It’s better to examine a wired keyboard’s wire and connector quality. Look at the cable thickness and make sure the keyboard provides a wrist rest. Double-check if it contains an ergonomic layout, as it will decrease strain. Also, pay attention to the frame construction. If it’s built with sturdy material, the product will be durable. Here are some guidelines for your convenience to check out its sturdiness.

Check out the keycap material. Make sure to choose the keyboard with PBT keycaps, as these are more durable than ABS. ABS is not very durable and wears down quickly.
You can also press the keys to examine their sturdiness. If they are of good quality, the keys should not feel loose; instead, they should be stable.
Inspect the keyboard’s frame also. Prefer the metal, aluminum, etc, and avoid the plastic frames.
Flex tests are also essential. For this purpose, you can press the keyboard’s bottom and sides. A keyboard with minimal flex is more appropriate and indicates that it’s solid and well-built.

Check the compatibility

This is an important elementto check when buying a computer keyboard. Verify if the product is compatible with your operating system. If you own a modern device and buy a new keyboard, in general, it should be compatible. Furthermore, you can follow below steps to check compatibility while buying your product.

First of all look at the connection type, for example USB or Bluetooth. Moreover, make sure it’s supported by your device.
Analyze the OS compatibility, and ensure that it supports your operating system, such as Linux, Windows, etc.
The key layout also matters a lot. First decide which layout is best for you, AZERTY, QWERTY etc. And when go for buying keyboard, check the layout and select that best that suits your needs.
Looking for the drivers or software requirements are also crucial points especially when it comes to Linux. The reason is some system like Linux may not always be compatible with the advanced features.

Noise Level makes a big difference

Monitoring the keyboard’s noise level is one pivotal element to evaluate. Not all computer keyboards have the same balance and noise level. Some keyboards, like mechanical ones, are noisy, while keyboards with membrane switches tend to be more silent. People working in a shared workspace should prefer keyboards with less noise.

Typing experience counts significantly

When buying a keyboard for your computer, a crucial factor is the typing experience. Examine the typing speed, accuracy, and comfort level. Ensure you feel good typing on it because it strongly impacts your overall performance and productivity. You can do this by pressing the keys as well. If the press is lighter, smoother, and quicker, it’s good. Pay more attention to the typing speed, especially if you’re buying keyboards for the following purposes.

For office use,
Writing, blogging,
Software development.

Examine the backlighting

Backlighting proves fruitful in multiple ways. It helps improve visibility in low light. Furthermore, it increases productivity and ensures typing accuracy. Some users consider it for better aesthetic appeal.

But the most important thing is who is in actual need of it. It depends on the environment where you work. For nighttime scenarios, backlighting should be your priority. However, working in a well-lit environment doesn’t require much.

Now, let’s see what things you should see to examine its backlighting. Firstly, check if it comes with single-light or RGB lighting. Then, check the keyboard by pressing its keys. Also, examine the brightness setting and customization options.

Connectivity options are of utmost importance

While making a purchase, don’t ignore the connectivity options. Each device provides a different connectivity option. The most common among them are:

Wired
Wireless

It’s better to check if the keyboard is wired or wireless. With wireless keyboards, you can enjoy the endless freedom of movement. You can quickly move it here and there. Moreover, you can use them even with those devices that don’t have USB ports. Instead, you need charging and batteries to continue working through them.

When it comes to the wired keyboards, you don’t need any charging or batteries here.

Connectivity options depend on your specific requirements and the device you’re looking for a keyboard. If you’re looking for convenience, Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz RF wireless keyboards will be a good fit. However, if you consider consistency, reliability, and durability, wired USB keyboards are good options. Apart from this, if you’re considering a multi-device setup, a hybrid keyboard with RF and Bluetooth options will be the perfect choice.

Consider the cost

At this point, you need to pay attention to the pricing factor without neglecting the item’s quality. Price matters a lot. Your priority should be purchasing a good-quality keyboard within your budget. You can find a reliable and well-made keyboard for general use at an affordable price. But if you’re looking for a keyboard for gaming or other profesional use, you should consider paying extra for the top product.

The same is true of mechanical keyboards – they are also expensive. However, if the product is of high quality with top-notch features, paying a little better for an extra mount doesn’t matter, as it will also be long-lasting and more durable.

The first thing you need to see is your exact budget. Then, choose multiple options that fit your requirements.

Battery life and energy efficency holds considerable weight

You need to take a closer look at it when go to buy a keyboard. A keyboard with longer and better battery life is more cost-efficient, brings more convenience to your work, reduces interruptions, and maintains the workflow. If you ignore this aspect and buy a product with a low-quality battery, you’ll have to pay again and again for replacement.

Now, let’s see how to choose the keyboard with better battery life:

First, you need to check whether the battery is rechargeable or replaceable and choose according to your requirements and convenience. Moreover, the power efficiency of the system will be evaluated, and the search for the one with low power consumption will be conducted.

For rechargeable keyboards, charging time and speed also count. Also, consider the battery life estimate. For this purpose, you can read the product specifications.

Consider looking keyboard with both options – the one which have rechargable batteries that could be swapped. This way you can use your keybaord without interruptions.

If you prefer the backlighting, remember it might consume more battery. Apart from this, you can also check the battery life estimate provided by the brand.

Media keys are highly valuable

It’s one of the crucial aspects to evaluate in certain circumstances. Not everyone requires these equally. It depends on every individual’s preferences and specific needs: for people who use media functions minimally, this doesn’t require much. However, these keys greatly assist those frequently in touch with media functions.

These keys are helpful for people engaged in streaming, video editing, etc. They play a fundamental role in bringing flow and convenience to their tasks. At the same time, they are a huge time saver and raise productivity levels.

Conclusion

I hope you find this article helpful and that it will assist you in making the right decision about a computer keyboard. Remember, your one right decision assures long-lasting comfort and improved productivity.

When buying a computer keyboard you should consider how you will use it and then multiple factors like size, switch technology, connectivity mechanism, price and others. Opt for the one that optimally suits your demands, pocket, and environment.

Happy typing!