So, you've read our buying guide about keyboards and now you want some examples of good keyboards to purchase. The good news is that we are here to help relieve you of the task, or at least provide you with a solid foundation for your next purchase. There are a lot, a few that I will recommend myself, and others that might be a bit different than what you are used to. Either way, let's dive in!
Casual Keyboards
Casual keyboards are typically the least expensive keyboards on the market. They're designed for users who don't use their computer too often. Sometimes one of these could be a replacement for another when in a bind. Either way, there are a slew of them and there's a good chance one of these could be your next keyboard.
Logitech K120 USB Keyboard
Let's start with the ole reliable K120 USB Keyboard. Affordable, basic, and gives you everything you need for your Windows machine. You have basic functionality, a full-size design, adjustable legs, quiet typing, and it is also spill resistant, which is great for peace of mind. Not to mention, the price is perfect for something you need in a pinch or for basic use.
HP 150 Wired Keyboard
Another strong contender is the HP 150 Wired Keyboard! This is a simple and easy plug-and-play USB wired keyboard that gives you all the basics! It also has a low-profile design, a numpad, function keys, and more! It also has a chicklet key design that makes it look sophisticated while feeling good to type on!
Kensington Keyboard for Life
Durable, spill resistant, and incredibly affordable, the Kensington Keyboard for Life may be one of the best casual keyboards that also features quite the name. The internal membrane design assists with typing and ensuring that the internals aren't immediately damaged in the event of a spill. It also has a sturdy metal back plate for added strength, which may be the key factor of this keyboard's namesake.
Business Keyboards
Designed to look elegant without compromising performance, business keyboards tend to have a very specific aesthetic that tries to separate itself from every other type of keyboard. There are all sorts of styles and unique form factors, so let's take a look at a few of these.
Cherry KC 200 MX Wired Keyboard
Those who love the feel of a mechanical keyboard may find the Cherry KC 200 MX Wired Keyboard quite interesting! Not only do we have a full-sized format, but each of the keys use the near-silent Cherry MX2A Brown switches. Additionally, we have a low 1ms response time, macro keys, and a stylish anodized metal plate that adds that layer of style to the keyboard. It also has anti-ghosting and N-key rollover to prevent accidental presses, something typically seen in gaming keyboards. Honestly, for the price and what you get, this is a solid choice!
Keychron B6 Pro Ultra-Slim Wireless Keyboard
When I think of thin and sleek, I think of the Keychron B6 Pro Ultra-Slim Wireless Keyboard. It is a full-sized, low-profile keyboard that offers a massive amount of compatibility in a thin frame. Designed for Windows, macOS, and Linux, this RF- and Bluetooth-enabled keyboard is an absolute workhorse, one that gives you everything you need in a lightweight and thin design. Plus, it has a high polling rate, concave keycaps, and up to 1200 hours of battery life. Because of the design, the keys use a scissor switch mechanism, which is often found in laptop keyboards, so if that is something you personally like then I highly recommend the B6 Pro.
Logitech Signature Slim Solar+ K980 for Business
Designed for the business environment, the Logitech Signature Slim Solar+ K980 is a unique keyboard that provides long-lasting performance thanks to the integrated solar panel found at the top section, just above the function keys. Dubbed Logi LightCharge, you can get up to four months of battery on a full charge if no light contacts it. It also features all the traditional trappings of a low-profile keyboard. It also has the ability to connect up to three devices via wireless Bluetooth technology. Additionally, it is compatible with both Windows and macOS systems.
Logitech Signature Comfort Plus MK880 for Business
Providing a sense of relief for prolonged periods of typing, the Logitech Signature Comfort Plus MK880 is an outstanding keyboard! It also comes with an equally comfortable mouse that has a cushion located right at the top. While it isn't necessarily an ergonomic keyboard, it does feel great to type on! As a matter of fact, I am using it right now to type out this entire article! After using it for a long time, I can say that it is one of the better business-styled keyboards that balances performance and price. It has adjustable tilt legs, customizable shortcuts, action keys, meeting control keys, and allows you to connect up to three systems with three buttons to quickly swap between each device. The business edition includes the Logi Bolt RF sensor for added security. It also works on both Windows and macOS devices. I highly recommend this particular model.
Gaming Keyboards
Intended for the gaming enthusiasts, these keyboards are meant to give players an edge on the battlefield. Typically featuring mechanical keys, enhanced macro features, colorful backlighting, and so much more, gaming keyboards tend to be incredibly popular. So, let's take a look at what we have going on here.
Logitech G G413 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
If you are looking for a more affordable gaming keyboard that doesn't have the bells and whistles of a pure, multicolored keyboard, Logitech's G G413 is the one for you. It is a wonderful starter keyboard that features a wired USB connection, tactile mechanical switches, white LED backlighting, and a sophisticated black brushed aluminum finish. There is nothing fancy to it. It is here to do its job which provides you with a solid experience. The G413 comes in two variants, a standard and ten-keyless to accommodate your desk in the best way possible.
Keychron V1 Max Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Looks can be deceiving, and while the Keychron V1 Max doesn't necessarily have the stylings of a gaming keyboard, it absolutely is one! I know this because I own it and I have found the experience to be amazing! Equipped with Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches, I get this smooth actuation force that is emboldened by the keyboard's gasket design which produces this warm sound that is like music to my ears! What I really enjoy is for this price, you get a fully customizable experience if you feel like pouring some more money into it thanks to hot-swappable switches, fully adjustable interior, and more! You can truly lay the foundation with the V1 Max. Additionally, we have customizable RGB backlighting, RF and Bluetooth wireless connectivity, and even wired connectivity (which I prefer). The cherry on top is the compatibility between Windows, macOS, and Linux. This comes in both 75% and 96% variants.
Logitech G G512 LIGHTSYNC RGB
At this price point, we are starting to get into more unique keyboard designs. The Logitech G G512 is just one of those keyboards that really kicks it up a notch over the previously mentioned G413. It features the same brushed aluminum finish as the G413 but also has LIGHTSYNC RGB lighting illuminated throughout the keys. It is a wired keyboard with the added benefit of providing you with a USB passthrough port, meaning you can connect your mouse without having to send a wire or plug in a receiver to the back of your PC. Additionally, you get programmable function keys, and this particular model comes equipped with Logitech's GX Brown Tactile switches.
8BitDo Retro 87 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Taking a break from the Logitech keyboards, I have to shine a light on one of my favorite brands out there, 8BitDo, and their Retro 87 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard. Aesthetic is the name of the game here, and the Retro 87 comes in multiple themes that pays homage to famous consoles of the past like the Commodore 64, Nintendo Entertainment System, Famicom, and my personal favorite, the original Xbox. This uses both RF and Bluetooth, has a hot-swappable PCB that is pre-loaded with Kailh Jellyfish X switches, a slew of function keys, and more! 8BitDo also includes their Fast-mapping Dual Super Button which gives you quick access to macros and other functions.
ASUS Republic of Gamers Strix Scope II X
Featuring a full-sized design, the ASUS Republic of Gamers Strix Scope II brings some fan-favorite design concepts to this main iteration over the original Scope I. We do have a wired USB connection and a detachable wrist rest. We also have some unique additions here, including a multifunction button and wheel combo which can perform a myriad of tasks. The Scope II also features a hot-swappable PCB equipped with NX Snow Linear Switches V2 but can be swapped out for other ASUS switches. If you are an Xbox fan, there are a bunch of preprogrammed Xbox Game Bar hotkeys giving you instant access to additional overlay functions.
CORSAIR K65 PLUS
Looking like the remnants of a cool winter breeze, the CORSAIR K65 PLUS is a wireless gaming keyboard that embraces style and performance in a singular package. Operating on both RF and Bluetooth, you get a solid connection backed up by a long, 266-hour battery life on a full charge. We also get Cherry MLX Red V2 linear switches which can be swapped out for others if you want a different feel. The 1000 Hz polling rate with anti-ghosting and N-key rollover makes the K65 Plus a contender for one of the better performing stock keyboards out there currently! You get customizable per-key RGB lighting which can be customized through Corsair's iCUE software. Also, there is a customizable, multifunction knob on the keyboard which is always a nice addition.
Keychron K4 HE
Keychron is back at it again with something a bit more elegant with the K4 HE! We have a unique classy look to this gaming keyboard due in part to the wooden accenting found on the sides that perfectly compliments the black and white tone. Just like the previous Keychron keyboard, the K4 HE has RF and Bluetooth connectivity, customizable RGB backlighting, 1000 Hz polling rate with N-key rollover, and a stylish metal frame. What really makes this keyboard stand out are the switches, which are Hall Effect (HE), meaning you can fully adjust various parameters like actuation force! This allows you to fine-tune your typing and gaming experience to your liking. If you rather have a more traditional switch, you can easily hot swap them for others. The K4 HE comes in 75% and 96% layouts and is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Razer BlackWidow V4
Perhaps the most infamous keyboard of all time comes from Razer with its latest BlackWidow V4. Sporting a 75% form factor, the BlackWidow V4 can easily fit in a variety of desk configurations. You also get a full range of function keys, aluminum alloy construction, media keys, and a roller wheel. Like other keyboards mentioned, you have hot-swappable switches with Razer's own Orange Tactile mechanical switches preinstalled. Additionally, the BlackWidow V4 features per-key Underglow with Chroma RGB lighting. I also must mention that this keyboard is wired but provides an amazingly fast 8000 Hz polling rate, which makes it wonderful for competitive online games.
Logitech G G512 X 98 Dual Swap
The latest keyboard that has come across my desk and perhaps my most recent favorite is the Logitech G G512 X 98 Dual Swap! Honestly, this is where weget into the weeds when it comes to gaming keyboards, because this one has a ton of unique features backed by Logitech's G Hub software that makes this the most exquisite gaming experience to date for me. It has a wired connection to your computer while providing an 8000 Hz polling rate, but that is just the surface of where this keyboard can go. We have customized actuation force on linear mechanical switches, LIGHTSYNC RGB backlighting, and 39 Dual Swap TMR beds. On the top of the keyboard are additional analog Gateron K20 switches that can be used across the TMR beds, allowing you to easily customize your feel without needing any additional switches on hand. You also get special SAPP rings to add a secondary trigger point with each press. Also, you get two programmable dials to handle a whole slew of different tasks. There are tons of different options here, so click on the link and see all of Logitech's options.
Creative Professional
While these might be oddly specific, these are the keyboards made for those who are working within the creative world. A few are designed for specific software suites, so as always, I would check to see that you have that software before you buy anything for it. Additionally, these types of keyboards are meant for those who have a good amount of experience with editing applications.
Logickeyboard TITAN Avid Pro Tools
If you are using Avid Pro Tools, then you'll be right at home with the Logickeyboard TITAN! This full-sized keyboard has a low-profile design, allowing it to be used in a variety of desk layouts. On top of being used for standard keyboard use, there are around 70 color-coded shortcuts inlayed directly onto the keys to help you navigate your workload easier! There are five levels of backlighting making it easier to see what you're doing in the dark, and it also has an internal rechargeable battery. It also connects to your macOS system via Bluetooth or USB-C wired connectivity. This is definitely a must-have for those just getting into the content creation space and using Avid. If you are someone who prefers to use Adobe Premiere Pro, don't worry, Logickeyboard has you covered!
KB Covers Backlit Adobe Premiere Pro
Another fantastic low-profile keyboard for editing is the KB Covers Backlit Adobe Premiere Pro wired keyboard! It features four brightness levels of backlighting with keys that feature the shortcuts printed right on the individual keys. You also have a full-sized layout with number keys as well. Additionally, you can get these keyboards in either Windows or macOS layouts!
Blackmagic Design DaVinci Resolve Editor
If you are looking for a specific keyboard for a specific software, look no further than the behemoth that is the Blackmagic Design DaVinci Resolve Editor keyboard! For a lack of better terms, this is a beast of a keyboard that gives you absolutely everything you need to edit your work with seamless effort. Keys are properly color coded and feature the shortcuts you need to get your work done as well as feature a slew of additional keys with their own specific functions. There's also the search dial that features a rubber coating and provides you with smooth operation that is backed by an electronic clutch that creates end stops when used for shuttle and position amongst other features. If you don't have DaVinci Resolve, then good news as the keyboard does come with a copy!
Ergonomic Keyboards
Designed for optimal comfort, ergonomic keyboards are designed for the users who sit at their computers all day long. Unlike the keyboards we have discussed before, these all feature a unique pattern and form factor that better accommodates the natural typing position. Remember, an ergonomic keyboard could be used for business, but that doesn't mean a business keyboard is always ergonomic!
Kensington Pro Fit Ergo
Coming in both wired and wireless models, the Kensington Pro Fit Ergo keyboard is a fantastic addition to your desktop! Split and sloped keys provide that natural feel with quiet and spill-proof keys. The built-in wrist rest adds comfort to your experience alongside the adjustable reverse tilt stand. This is more or less the standard when it comes to ergonomic keyboards as they have everything you may need to prevent strain. For the price, it definitely gets the job done.
Logitech Wave Keys
Say hello to the fan favorite Logitech Wave Keys ergonomic keyboard. While it doesn't have the split down the middle, the keys are placed in a position that still feels great to type on! It also features a three-layer palm rest and built-in 4-degree tilt legs for added comfort. Like most other Logitech devices, the Wave Keys is compatible with the Logi Options+ software, giving you enhanced support for multiple platforms including Windows, Mac, Linux, and more! The Wave Keys operates on both 2.4 GHz RF and Bluetooth connectivity options and can even swap between three devices quickly!
Logitech ERGO K860 Wireless Split
Taking your ergonomic feel to new levels, the Logitech ERGO K860 Wireless Split gives you that split right down the middle on a full-sized layout! The three-layer pillowed wrist rest is adjustable for standing desks, allowing you to retain that same comfort you'd normally experience when sitting. You also get three adjustable lift levels alongside the molded convex curve. You also get additional customizable keys to better get you through your workload quickly and efficiently. The ERGO K860 operates on dual AAA batteries and provides you with up to 2 years of battery life for long-lasting performance! There is also a bundle that includes Logitech's MX Vertical Ergonomic Mouse to really round out your desktop space.
Razer Pro Type Ergo Wireless Split Ergonomic RGB
I'll be honest and say that I wasn't counting on Razer making an ergonomic keyboard for gamers, but they have gone and made the Pro Type Ergo Wireless Split Ergonomic RGB keyboard! The split design and curvature accompanied by the low-profile curved keys provides a unique typing experience. A fully adjustable stand gives you two levels of lift while the built-in wrist rest offers long-lasting support and comfort! Additionally, you get two dials, media keys, macro keys, and 12-zone customizable RGB backlighting to add a sense of personality to your system. Additionally, the Pro Type Ergo features Razer's wireless technology, five-way multi-device connectivity, and up to three-months of battery life on a single full charge!
Adesso Tru-Form Media 3150 Wireless Ergo Trackball
While somewhat compact yet comfortable to use, the Adesso Tru-Form Media 3150 Wireless Ergo Trackball keyboard features the traditional keys you would find on any other keyboard, but it also includes a bult-in trackball for easy desktop navigation. This is great for areas where space is limited, or if someone wants to minimize desk clutter. The keyboard runs on AAA batteries and operates on the 2.4 GHz wireless wavelength. It is also compatible with both Windows and Mac systems.
Everything Else
I want to make a few honorable mentions to devices that aren't necessarily keyboards, but they do have some sort of utility on your desktop. These have unique features designed for purposes outside the norm.
Logickeyboard Large Print Bluetooth Mini Keyboard
For those with visual impairments, the Logickeyboard Large Print Bluetooth Mini Keyboard is the perfect device to get work done. It features easy-to-read lettering on larger keys! The monochrome, high-contrast color schemes come in multiple formats that best various vision types while adding a boldness to each of the letters and numbers found on the keyboard. Wireless connectivity is available via integrated Bluetooth 3.0 technology and is both Windows and iPad compatible. Two batteries are also included!
Adesso EasyTouch 132 Luminous 4x Large Print Multimedia
With a full-sized layout, the Adesso EasyTouch 132 Luminous offers better visibility over traditional keyboards thanks to the high-contrast design. It has large-print design, membrane switch keys, and connects to your system via wired USB connection. Also, a built-in numerical keyboard makes it easy to hit various numbers without straining.
Cherry JK-A0100EU Smartcard Keyboard
This full-sized Cherry JK-A0100EU Smartcard Keyboard not only has all the standard keys you'd need to get work done, but it also has an integrated PC/SC smartcard reader that supports various security protocols to prevent open access to the computer it is plugged into. It is also FIPS 201 and EMV 2000 Level 1 approved, supports reading/writing ISO 7816 compliant smartcards, and is also CCID compatible.
8BitDo Retro 18 Mechanical Numpad
The 8BitDo Retro 18 Mechanical Numpad is not a keyboard per se, but a nifty object nonetheless! Ideal for those who love to use laptops, the Retro 18 provides users with a nifty numpad for quick and easy numerical input. It also has a calculator function so you can perform various mathematical equations on the fly! It comes with hot swappable Kailh Jellyfish X switches, has N-key rollover, and an aluminum backplate for added reliability. Just like the keyboards I previously mentioned, the Retro 18 comes in a variety of colors. It also features both Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz connectivity.
There you have it! A list of some of our favorite keyboards for all types of users! From the ergonomic models down to the best gaming-focused keyboards, there is something for everyone! If you want to learn more about each one, make sure you hit the links and get a full view of each and every one!
