Most of us are used to the basic keyboards that are linked up to our computers without researching various types of computer keyboards. Without thinking about what characteristics we want from our computer keyboards, we type away, naive to the concept that there may be a better one out there for us. From flexible computer keyboards that can be simply rolled away in our luggage to very complicated gaming keyboards, there are a plethora of alternatives accessible out there; all we have to do is search.
There are numerous forms of computer keyboards accessible on today’s market for your computer. The computer keyboard is an important component of computer hardware that stores all the alphabets, symbols, numerics, and special characters needed for inputting input data text into a desktop computer for the output results on the screen.
Top 12 Best Computer Keyboards Explained In 2022
Whether you are a passionate gamer or a skilled designer, there is a computer keyboard out there for you. Have a look at this collection of several computer keyboards to see what works best for you. Based on the connectivity possibilities, a computer keyboard is classified as a wired keyboard, a wireless keyboard, aBluetooth or Wi-Fi standard keyboard, and a USB keyboard.
All forms of computer keyboards have varied properties as per the user’s expectations and preferences. Let’s learn about the numerous computer keyboards and their features. Numerous varieties of computer keyboards are regularly used by users for different purposes, including a gaming keyboard, a multimedia keyboard, or even an ergonomic keyboard for better comfort.
1. Ergonomic Keyboard
The ergonomic keyboard is meant to relieve the strain of continual typing on the wrist and other difficulties that come from that. These keyboards reduce musculoskeletal disorders such as repetitive strain syndrome (RSI), something that can be caused by extended hours of keyboard use. Ergonomic keyboards are intended to angle the hands the way they would naturally fall and generally contain cushioning for the wrists to rest on. There are a few distinct ergonomic designs to satisfy the demands of various typists. From split keyboards to contoured to hand-held keyboards, there is an ergonomic design for everyone.
2. Gaming Keyboard
Gaming keyboards are developed for use for long periods of time, frequently incorporating ergonomic designs for comfort and often featuring lit keys for playing in the night. These keyboards are also constructed with customizable keys that may be fitted to the sort of gamer you are. They feature an additional thick layer of paint on the keys, more typically used for gaming, such as the W, A, S, D, and space bar.
3. Flexible Keyboard
These keyboards operate just like normal keyboards but are geared for people on the move. They are often composed of silicon, which is water and dust-resistant and doesn’t require continuous cleaning. The flexible material allows you to roll it up easily for storage, making it extremely useful and practical to take along with your notebook, laptop, and Mac. These keyboards are great for folks who spend a lot of time traveling and outdoors; they can be folded up and placed into a backpack, and they are tough in outdoorsy settings.
4. Wireless Keyboard
The wireless keyboard is precisely what it’s named; a keyboard without a cord. It is connected to your computer through infrared, 2.4 GHz WiFi, or more typically, Bluetooth. These keyboards may be used if you link your computer to either a screen or television so you can manage it from the comfort of your bed or sofa. They are quite affordable and extremely easily available.
5. Multimedia/Internet Keyboard
6. Membrane Keyboard
Unlike the majority of keyboards, membrane keyboards don’t have a gap between the individual keys. These keys are pressure sensitive and are split by an outline for each symbol, letter, or number. The keys lie flat on a flexible surface.
7. Mechanical Keyboard
These strong keyboards are relatively inexpensive, long-lasting, and are viewed as fairly primitive in the keyboard sector. Because the keys rest atop physical-mechanical buttons, you get an authentic typing experience with this old-school keyboard. These keyboards are also a lot louder than the alternatives. However, mechanical keyboards have ardent adherents, especially within the gaming community. Because the keys are mechanical, they give accurate control, are more robust, and are also more responsive when playing games.
8. Virtual Keyboard
A virtual keyboard is essentially just software that allows you to type without the need for actual physical keys. The method you can use to utilize this keyboard is through the use of a touch screen, which is available on the latest laptop releases and tablet computers.
9. Laptop Keyboard
Laptop keyboards include what we term “chiclet-style” keys, which are slimmer than regular keys to fit into thinner computers. These modern-looking keyboards also typically contain a lot more than a standard keyboard, from volume control to on and off buttons as well as brightness adjustment right on the keyboard. There is occasionally a little tracker placed among the keys that may be used as a pointer.
10. Projection Keyboard
Probably the coolest keyboard of the lot is the projection keyboard. This is a gadget that may be connected by Bluetooth to your tiny PC, tablet computer, or smartphone. It shows the laser projection of a keyboard on any plain surface that you pick. You type on the holograph of the keys, and the gadget captures your keystrokes and replies accordingly.
11. Portable Mini Keyboard
These keyboards normally include a wireless connection interface (Bluetooth or WiFi), but may also be linked with a USB cord. They contain complete QWERTY keys and may be used with computers, Android boxes, streaming TV sticks, tablets, Raspberry devices, and other computing or electrical devices. Another benefit of this sort of keyboard is that it has a mouse pad incorporated into the keyboard itself.
12. Backlit Keyboard
In this style of keyboard, there is a backdrop light that lights every key, aiding the user to type even in the dark. They are a wonderful alternative for gamers who want to play their action or adventure games in the dark. These sorts of gadgets make use of LEDs (light-emitting diodes) for lighting the keys and are considerably easier to operate than standard keyboards. Therefore, each key may not need a backlight on its own. Therefore, modest LED lights may be put in the background of the device to provide lighting for the overall keyboard layout.
Use Case
Select your Computer Keyboards according to the use case you will need to support. Do you want a simple conventional keyboard, ergonomic, gaming, etc.?
How Do I Choose a Computer Keyboard?
With so many alternatives available on the market, it might be challenging to choose the correct keyboard for your computer and for your unique needs. Here are some considerations you might consider while buying a keyboard.
Type of Connection (USB, Wireless, etc.)
First, you must see what sort of port your computer has. Older computers used to include a PS2 port, which was a specialized circular port for connecting mice and keyboards. New computers (desktops and laptops) feature many USB ports, which are the main form of attachment for wired keyboards.
Alternatively, you may purchase a wireless computer keyboard if your computer can handle Bluetooth capabilities or if you have WiFi in the house (most households have it). To set up a wireless Bluetooth keyboard, you have to go to your Control Panel and pick “Bluetooth Devices.” After that, choose the icon for your wireless keyboard and add it by using the “Add” option. However, the USB-port wired keyboard is significantly more widespread and widely available compared to other types of keyboards.
Ergonomic Keyboard
A specialized keyboard, such as an ergonomic computer keyboard, is meant to decrease muscular strain. Manufacturers set the keyboard’s keys to follow the natural shape of hands and incorporate a wide pad to assist the user’s wrists and palms. If you’re someone who needs to use keyboards for extended hours, this style of keyboard is ideal.
Gaming Keyboards
Gaming keyboards are improved versions of normal keyboards and include numerous additional features and functionalities. Usually, these keyboards contain lit keys to enable gamers to play at night. At the same time, these keyboards also comprise multimedia buttons that enable users to change the volume, numerous shortcuts for multiple functions, such as checking email while playing, and palm rests to lessen the strain on the user’s hands when playing games.
Standard Keyboards
After deciding on the Computer Keyboards connection type, determine why you need the keyboard. A conventional keyboard is known as the “QWERTY” keyboard. These keyboards consist of a variety of functions at the top of the keyboard, as well as numerals 1 to 0; a separate numeric keypad to the right; punctuation symbols; and letters A-Z that start with the “QWERTY” sequence. These keyboards are excellent for any routine use, such as typical typing, day-to-day surfing, etc.
How to Clean Your Keyboard?
Cleaning a keyboard is relatively simple. You merely need to wipe the keyboard using a clean, lint-free microfiber cloth, but it has to be moistened softly to eliminate any dust stuck on your keyboard. Although water does the job, it’s best to dab the towel with isopropyl alcohol.
Lastly, you must make sure that no moisture goes straight into the apertures. Never spray water straight on the keyboard. Also, before starting to clean the keyboard as mentioned above, it’s a good idea to turn it upside-down and strike it lightly at the back so that any dirt and dust from within will fall out. You will be shocked at what comes out of the keyboard!!
How Do I Know If I Need a New Keyboard?
The usual life expectancy of most keyboards is between 5 and 50 million key presses, with mechanical keyboards being more robust compared to their silent equivalents. However, certain keyboards might develop difficulties early due to harsh usage. Here are three important symptoms that reveal that your keyboard needs to be replaced: Broken keys are a physical issue. Excessive dust and other debris within the keyboard’s unresponsiveness to some keys
Can I Use an External Keyboard on My Laptop?
Yes. You may use an external keyboard by inserting it into the USB port of your laptop. Likewise, a wireless keyboard will also operate in this fashion. After connecting the external keyboard to your laptop, you may use both keyboards at the same time.
Final Words
So, whether you’re typing behind a desk all day or opting to work remotely from a tranquil campground, just know there are Computer Keyboards out there created exactly for your requirements!
