Five Things to Think About Before Purchasing a Computer Keyboard

There are several methods to connect and use the hundreds of computer keyboards available on the market. We believed it should be simpler to comprehend, so we put together this guide to walk you through fundamental keyboard functions, explain maintenance concerns, and assist you in selecting the ideal keyboard.

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How Much Should a Keyboard for a Computer Cost?

You can possibly save up to $10 on a keyboard if all you need is one for simple typing. However, because features like numerous key functions, metal frames, and built-in lighting are extra expensive, the more features you desire from your keyboard, the more money you’ll have to spend. You’ll need to choose something that meets your demands and budget out of the various possibilities available.

The ergonomics

It is important to purchase a new keyboard with at least the most basic ergonomic features if you will be typing on it for long periods of time.

You should expect a learning curve even though ergonomics can take many different forms—some keyboards divide keys, have curves, or even include motorization. You should anticipate that typing will feel awkward and unnatural until your hands become used to the new layout and movement of the keyboard. But because ergonomic keyboards lessen the strain exerted on your hands and wrists while you type, your hands and wrists will appreciate it.

Additional features of ergonomic keyboards might be wrist rests and an adjustable height.

Is it wireless or wired?

Similar to mice, wired and wireless keyboards both have advantages and disadvantages that are personal preference.

The range of a wired keyboard is limited, but there’s no need to constantly hunt for batteries or worry about lost connections. With a wireless keyboard, you may type while relaxing on the couch and you won’t ever struggle with an annoying chord.

The majority of keyboards include wireless communication via Bluetooth or USB technologies. Make sure your gadget has built-in Bluetooth compatibility if you decide to use Bluetooth. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to get a Bluetooth receiver and couple the device.

There is a solar-powered keyboard available from Logitech, although the cost of this technology is likely to be more up front. By never having to buy batteries again, you may recover the expense.

Media keys and hotkeys

A variety of media keys and hotkeys are included with most keyboards. Like keyboard shortcuts, these keys let you get things done quickly.

In the event that you utilize your living room keyboard to operate your media system, media keys—which include functions like volume and video control—come in rather handy.

With hotkeys, you may do particular activities by hitting a combination of buttons; one-touch buttons are sometimes used in place of these combinations on keyboards. These hotkeys can help desk jockeys save time.

Keyboard Dimensions

In addition to usually eliminating the number pad, smaller keyboards may also include shorter keys or none at all between the buttons. These come in handy if the keyboard is meant for a tablet or if you have to move it about a lot.

More hotkeys and media keys are typically found on larger keyboards. Default to a bigger game keyboard if you want one with lots of media buttons, USB connections, etc.

Variations in Computer Keyboards

There are several other varieties of keyboards. Generally, their qualities are more important if you’re interested in a specific style than if they impair functioning. Among them are:

Backlit Keyboards

Similar to regular keyboards, backlit keyboards release light from underneath the keys. They’re functional as well as stylish. Keyboards that are backlit usually have easier-to-read keys, and some have adjustable light levels so you may color-code different sections for different jobs.

Dvorak keyboards

Given that it has a layout very different from QWERTY, which is called for the sequence of the keys, a Dvorak keyboard is an acquired taste. A Dvorak keyboard’s design facilitates a simpler, quicker movement and is intended to boost typing speed while reducing motion and pressure on your hands.

The Flexible Keyboards

Flexible keyboards are ideal if you want a keyboard that you can simply roll up—yes, roll—and transport. These shaky, incredibly portable keyboards are usually made of silicone, which makes them easy to clean, robust, and often impervious to small spills.

The Magic Keyboards.

Both functionally and visually, Mac computers are ideally suited for Magic Keyboards, Apple’s own line of hardware. The Magic Keyboard has a sleek appearance and can be recharged wirelessly, however it also has a traditional USB-C to Lightning cable connection option.

Membrane Keyboards are Available

Because of their materials, membrane keyboards are typically less costly than other designs, and they are also relatively silent due to their structure. There is no gap between the keys, and each one is pressure-sensitive.

Mechanical Keyboards are available.

The majority of mechanical keyboards are made to resemble vintage typewriters, visually or otherwise. As you type, they frequently make a more audible and tactile click.

The Numeric Keyboard

These little add-on keyboards frequently have a calculator-like appearance but lack a display. If your keyboard does not already have a number pad, their function is to add one to your configuration.

For Whom Is a Computer Keyboard Suitable?

Keyboard use varies among users. For example, advanced features that an office worker wouldn’t need or desire are sought after by gamers. As soon as you decide why you require a keyboard, you’ll be able to reduce your options faster.

Player

Integrated LCDs, customizable keys, backlighting, and movable number pads are usually necessary for gamers to maximize their advantages and improve their gaming experience.

Look for keyboards that are designated as gaming keyboards if you’re a player. These features come at a greater price, but most dedicated gamers will tell you they’re well worth it.​

Media Consumption

You’re the kind of person who streams or saves all of their movies and music on their computer. Look for media-key functionality on a keyboard, such play/pause buttons, track skipping, and a volume control knob.

A wireless keyboard will be more comfortable if you store movies on your laptop and watch them later on when it’s connected to your TV. This allows you to rewind and fast-forward while lounging on your couch. Mini keyboards that are tailored for media consumption are available; they look a lot like big remote controllers.​

Office Employee or User of a Home Office

Whether you work in desktop publishing or data entry, you are bent over your computer for long periods of time. Make an ergonomic keyboard purchase for the benefit of your wrists as well as yourself.

Not all keyboards are created equal in the field of ergonomics, and some keyboards make false claims about their ergonomics. Before making a purchase, try using a friend’s ergonomic keyboard if you can. Even though there will definitely be a learning curve at first, you should be able to determine if it’s comfortable for you really fast.

Look for features like curved keys and raised wrist rests if this isn’t a possibility. Certain keyboards are even detachable, allowing you to adjust the distance between the left and right hand keys.​

Journeyman

You prefer to pack a keyboard in your carry-on when you travel, for whatever reason. Some individuals become so dependent on their macros that they find it unbearable to operate in an office setting without them. Don’t worry; keyboards with reduced key counts are made specifically for you.

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