Enjoy A Smooth Typing Experience With The Best Keyboards
Whether you're writing essays, playing games or coding, the keyboard is an essential part of any computer setup. But it can also be a source of frustration if you have to deal with faulty keys or an awkward layout. A premium quality product with an intuitive design and responsive keys can not only improve your overall efficiency but also helps reduce hand fatigue.
There is a wide range of reliable keyboard options available. Some of them feature dedicated media controls and customizable RGB lighting, while others boast an ergonomic design that makes them suitable to use for extended periods.
From gaming options to mechanical models, we've compiled a list of the highest-rated keyboards of 2023 to see how they stack up against each other.
Comparing The Top Keyboards Of 2023
Logitech MK270 Wireless Keyboard — Best Overall
The Logitech MK270 Wireless Keyboard is an excellent solution for easy, reliable wireless computing. This keyboard and mouse combo is equipped with a USB receiver that offers a reliable connection up to 33 feet, so you don't have to worry about dropouts, delays and interference. It boasts a conventional design with full-size function keys, a number pad and arrow keys.
Even though the keyboard is suitable for any activity, it's mainly intended for writing. It also comes equipped with eight multimedia hotkeys, allowing you to quickly access the Internet, open up your email or control the volume. The keys themselves are also quite responsive, letting you type quickly while maintaining a high level of accuracy.
This product features a spill-resistant design that makes it easy to clean up any messes you might make while working on one of your projects. The Logitech MK270 also has sturdy tilt legs that allow you to adjust its height for a more comfortable typing experience. Because of its low profile design, smooth keys and premium quality, this keyboard stands at the top of our list.
Redragon S101 Gaming Keyboard— Ideal for Gamers
The Redragon S101 Gaming Keyboard is designed first and foremost with competitive gamers in mind. This keyboard is equipped with a gold-plated corrosion-free USB connector for a strong and reliable connection, so you don't have to deal with lag and delays while playing. It also has an ergonomic design and features an integrated wrist rest for ultimate comfort during long gaming sessions to prevent repetitive strain injuries (RSI).
The keyboard features 25 conflict-free keys and a handy numeric keypad for quick calculations, making it a suitable choice for professionals. In addition to the standard keys, it also comes with 10 keys specifically for multimedia, as well as 12 function and multimedia combination keys for easy access to your favorite shortcuts.
The value kit includes the Redragon gaming mouse, which can reach up to 3,200 dpi and has 30G acceleration, making it ideal for fast-paced action games. As for aesthetics, the keyboard comes with seven different RGB lighting modes and effects and four backlight brightness levels.
The Redragon S101 is compatible with most Windows, Mac and Linux operating systems and setting it up is a breeze — all you have to do is plug the keyboard into your computer, and its plugins will be downloaded automatically.
Razer Cynosa Chroma Gaming Keyboard — Most Customizable
Designed for expert and casual gamers alike, the Razer Cynosa Chroma Gaming Keyboard is a great choice to enhance your gaming experience. It features complete anti-ghosting and full key rollover capabilities, allowing you to execute up to ten commands simultaneously. The keyboard's individually backlit keys support 16.8 million colors, and it comes with a hardware configuration tool that allows you to assign macros on the fly.
Unlike other keyboards, the Razer Cynosa has soft, cushioned keys so you can play for hours without discomfort. It also has a spill-resistant design, meaning you don't have to worry about accidentally spilling your drink on your keyboard during intense gaming sessions.
The Razer Cynosa features a subdued design that makes it suitable for nearly any gaming setup because it blends well with most settings and setups. For dedicated gamers, the Razer Synapse application is another feature of note. This app allows you to disable Windows keys instantly and lets you add secondary functions to different keys without changing their primary functions.
Havit Mechanical Keyboard — Most Versatile
If you're looking for a top-of-the-line mechanical keyboard that will last you a long time, consider the Havit Mechanical Keyboard. Constructed from high-quality durable polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) keycaps, this keyboard is resistant to wear and tear and will serve you for years to come. It features a conflict-free design, so you won't have to worry about any of your keystrokes being accidentally interpreted by other devices.
The keyboard is equipped with 89 keys, including multimedia keys, a num lock key, shift/capslock indicator lights and more, which provide maximum control while using your computer. It also offers both high and low key layout options, so both left-handed and right-handed people can use it comfortably. Unlike other bulky keyboards, this one saves you a lot of desk space — perfect for a clutter-free setup.
Thanks to the keyboard's colorful keycaps, you can easily find the right key during intense gaming sessions. It also has an adjustable stand, allowing you to optimize its height according to your comfort level to reduce hand fatigue. Ultimately, we can recommend the Havit Mechanical Keyboard because of its versatility and the quality of its components.
SteelSeries Apex Pro Keyboard— Most Intuitive
The SteelSeries Apex Pro Keyboard is a gaming keyboard with intuitive features that makes playing your favorite games much easier. For example, its Omnipoint adjustable actuation switches let you adjust the force required to press a key, which makes it easier to play first-person shooters and action games where you must press keys quickly but accurately. The keyboard's integrated command center makes it easy to set up your gaming profile and track macros, while the dedicated media control allows you to adjust volume, skip tracks, change brightness and more.
This gaming keyboard comes equipped with a clickable metal roller that makes navigating through long documents or emails effortless by scrolling up or down with a simple click. It also boasts RGB illumination and 16.8 million colors per key, allowing you to create a fully personalized look for your gaming setup.
With a premium magnetic wrist rest, the SteelSeries Apex provides much needed comfort for long gaming sessions. It also has a three-way routing channel, so you don't have to worry about tangled wires and cables on your desk, and it is made from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy. This keyboard is ideal for gamers who want a reliable keyboard that'll stand up to their intense play style.
Verbatim Slimline Keyboard— Most Compact
The Verbatim Slimline Keyboard is designed with a standard layout that makes it easy for users to adapt to the keys, which means you can type faster and more accurately. It also features a full numeric keypad and advanced tactile keys, so you can quickly input numbers and other data. And, for a more comfortable typing experience, it boasts adjustable tilt legs that let you set the angle of your keyboard.
Featuring a compact, low-profile design, the Verbatim Slimline is designed to fit on your desk without taking up much space. It's compatible with most Windows and Mac computers, as well, making it a great option for anyone who wants to upgrade their existing keyboard.
You can easily connect this keyboard to your computer using the USB cord and begin typing immediately. The cord, which is around 47 inches long, allows you to comfortably connect it to your system, even if you've set up the CPU under your desk. But if you don't want to deal with wires, you can also get this keyboard in a wireless design. It comes with a one-year limited warranty, so you can purchase it knowing that you may contact the seller if it doesn't work according to your expectations.
Buying Guide: Keyboards
With such a wide range of keyboards on the market, finding the best option for your computer setup can be tricky. In this detailed buyer's guide, we've compiled and described some of the most important factors to consider when looking for a computer keyboard.
Things To Look For In A Keyboard
Wired Or Wireless
Wired keyboards come with a connector cable and are pretty simple to use because you usually don't need additional software to set them up. The downside is that you must deal with wires hanging around your desk. Most gamers prefer using a wired keyboard because, despite the added awkwardness of cables, they are more responsive and aren't at risk of experiencing any interference.
Wireless models usually come with a USB receiver that needs to be inserted into your system to start using the keyboard. You should keep in mind that almost all wireless keyboards are equipped with rechargeable batteries to power them, so you need to charge these devices frequently, which can be a nuisance if you find yourself using them for many hours at a time.
Compatibility
Keyboards tend to be universally compatible, meaning you can use them on almost any operating system, including Mac, Windows, Linux and Android. That said, it's always better to double-check the compatibility of any keyboard unit before purchasing it to ensure that you can use it with your current operating system.
If you don't know which operating system your computer has, you can check by opening your computer's properties.
Response Time
Response time isn't much of an issue for professional use, but it's crucial in first-person shooters and other high action-per-minute game genres because even a millisecond of lag can tip the game in your opponent's favor. If you're a hardcore multiplayer gamer, you should get a keyboard with a high response time.
Layout
Look for models that have all the keys included in the layout if you often deal with many spreadsheets. Also, find an option with a numeric pad to make working on these spreadsheets more convenient and efficient.
If you often carry your keyboard from one place to another, you should opt for a compact wireless model. These are 60% smaller than traditional models and don't have numeric pads, media buttons or lighting features to save space.
Ergonomics
You may have experienced issues like wrist pain, repetitive stress injuries or even elbow pain if you spend a lot of time on your computer. If that's the case, you need an ergonomic keyboard for a more natural and relaxing typing position.
These keyboards usually have a softer wrist rest and a different arrangement of keys than traditional ones, allowing you to use your computer for extended periods without experiencing pain.
Different Types Of Keyboards
Backlit Models
Backlit keyboards are identical to standard keyboards except that they emit light from underneath the keys. They not only look great, but you'll be able to see the keys clearly in a poorly lit room. Some variants also feature customizable light settings that allow you to color-code different parts of the keyboard to carry out your tasks at night without disturbing others' sleep with bright, white lighting.
Dvorak Models
The Dvorak keyboards are designed to facilitate a simpler, quicker typing action to boost productivity and reduce fatigue. You may need some time to become used to working with a Dvorak keyboard because of its unusual layout (QWERTY, for example, is named after the order of the keys).
Flexible Models
Flexible keyboards are what you need if you're looking for something that can be rolled up and carried with ease. Most flexible models are made with silicone, which has several benefits over other materials, including being easy to clean, robust and resistant to minor spills.
Magic Variants
When it comes to aesthetics and functionality, nothing beats a Mac computer with a magic keyboard, the special branded hardware of Apple. The magic keyboard looks stylish and can enhance the overall look of your work or gaming setup. It's also wireless and rechargeable through a built-in USB-C to Lightning cord.
Membrane Keyboards
Because of their materials and design, membrane keyboards are often more affordable than other models. They are made to last even after years of use and are relatively quiet. Best of all, there is no dead space between the keys, and each key responds to pressure individually.
Mechanical Models
Most modern mechanical keyboards are engineered to mimic or emulate the feel of a classic typewriter. These options are a bit noisy because they make more tactile, audible sounds when you click on them.
Different Materials Used To Make Keycaps
Choosing a high-quality material for the keycaps can make a standard keyboard feel like a work of art. There are three categories of material used to make keycaps:
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
ABS was the first keycap material pioneered by IBM in the 1960s and is the least expensive form of plastic used in keycaps. One of the biggest negatives of ABS keycaps is the oily sheen that appears on the surface after the keycap is worn down — a characteristic that people find appealing, nonetheless.
PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate)
PBT is the more expensive alternative because of its high strength and stability. The textured surface holds up better over time than that of ABS, and these keycaps are more durable overall.
TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber)
TPR is a synthetic rubber mostly used as a keycap replacement for major gaming keys. This material is less durable than the other options and needs frequent replacement, but it provides a significantly better grip than PBT and ABS.
People Also Ask
Should I get a backlit keyboard?
A backlit keyboard lights the keys for easy access, making it useful for nighttime workers, students and gamers. These keyboards are equipped with built-in LEDs to illuminate the keys, making them more visible regardless of the surrounding lighting.
This type of keyboard is particularly helpful if you are new to using keyboards and still need to memorize the placement of the keys or if you simply want to keep the keys visible for faster access while gaming. Backlit keyboards are available in wired and wireless configurations, allowing you to choose the best solution that matches your needs.
How much do I need to pay for a quality keyboard?
A standard keyboard can cost you anywhere from $15 to $120. This price range will naturally fluctuate based on several factors, including the model and type of keyboard you want to purchase, any extra features, the overall quality and the brand.
Feel free to spend a few extra bucks to get a more reliable product; cheap keyboards are usually made of low-quality components and operate unreliably, so you should purchase keyboards from reputable manufacturers that still fit your budget.
Are wireless keyboards better than wired ones?
Most people prefer wireless keyboards because they offer a better range and don't come with a tangled mess of cords. Wired keyboards, on the other hand, provide better response time. Ultimately, whether a wired or wireless keyboard is better depends entirely on your preferences and how you intend to use it.
How can I minimize the clicking noise of my keyboard?
You can purchase a silicone keypad cover for your keyboard and install it directly on the keys. This will let you type silently and without producing a lot of noise. You don't have to worry about spending a fortune on these silicone covers because most of them are reasonably priced.
I have tried switching on my wireless keyboard several times, but it doesn't seem to work. What should I do?
There can be different possible explanations if your keyboard isn't turning on or has stopped working. In any case, you should be able to fix it with a few simple tricks.
First, if you have just purchased a new keyboard, check if it has batteries to power it up. Some manufacturers include a compatible battery in the package, but you will have to purchase a battery separately if yours didn't come with one.
If you know that your keyboard already has a battery installed, check to see if it's inserted properly. The battery can sometimes fall out of place from its original position, breaking the circuit. Lastly, if nothing seems to work, you should contact the seller or manufacturer to ask for a solution.
Will my backlit keyboard use the battery up more quickly?
A wireless backlit keyboard will consume more battery power and you'll need to charge your keyboard more often. Some backlit keyboards are equipped with more powerful batteries, so the run time depends on the battery type.
