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Our office experts have spent the last half-decade finding the best keyboards. We researched over 100 models before purchasing over 30 of the best devices to help you find the best option to keep your fingers happy as you type and play. We used these devices with desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. We evaluated and scored each model based on essential metrics like connectivity, ease of use, battery life, software, backlighting, comfort, portability, media keys, and more. Whether your typing needs include casual emailing, school, mobile office, work from home, research papers, reports, grant writing, or serious gaming plus and all of the above, we've compiled this list of the best options for each type of keyboard.
We've got you covered if you're looking for a specific kind of keyboard. Check out our exhaustive best gaming keyboard review for maximum gaming performance. For excellent wireless connectivity and on-the-go portability, see our review of the best wireless keyboards and best wireless mice. And if you spend long hours at the desk and you're looking for some hand and wrist relief, check out our best ergonomic keyboards review. We've also reviewed all types of products to maximize the comfort and efficiency of your home office. We'll make it easy to find the right product for your needs and budget.
Editor's Note: We updated our keyboard review on March 14, 2024, to include more information on how we tested these products. We also include alternative choices for our top award winners.
The Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless is an excellent all-around wireless keyboard that will keep you streamlined and efficient, whether you're coding, designing, or poring through spreadsheets. The connection is super fast, with no noticeable lag. The MX Keys Advanced works with all common operating systems. So, whether you're running MacOS, Windows, or Linux, this will connect without additional drivers or software. With this model, you can connect with up to three devices simultaneously and switch between them with a button. This model has a full tenkey keypad, hotkeys, media keys, and programmable F-keys. It's backlit, and the brightness of this backlighting is controlled by ambient light detection. It comes with the Logitech Options software, which lets you customize your keyboard in many ways. When it's not in use, it automatically goes into sleep mode. Then, when you move your hands close, it wakes up with motion detection before you even start typing.
While the MX Keys Advanced Wireless is one of our favorites, it's not perfect. It has approximately 90 hours of battery life. If you're using it for 45 hours per week, it might not make it a whole two weeks. Compared to other wireless options, this battery life is relatively short. But you can still use it while it's charging, and it recharges via USB, so the shorter battery life isn't a huge deal. This is an excellent choice for an all-around great keyboard with wireless connectivity and tons of efficiency features. Still, if a dead keyboard is a concern, perhaps a wired model may be better, like the ergonomic Goldtouch GTN-0099 V2 Adjustable.
The Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless was one of our favorite keyboards overall.
The Goldtouch GTN-0099 V2 Adjustable is an impressive ergonomic model that can be adjusted into different tenting and lateral settings. This is one of the easiest ergonomic models to adjust to since you can slowly adjust it to be more and more ergonomic. It can be used flat like a traditional model, but it gives you many options to adjust its orientation. You can split this outward to keep your elbows in a natural position or set it up with a triangularly shaped slope down from the center to put your wrists in a more comfortable and natural position. The simplistic overall design of this device is quite pleasing, too. The buttons press down effortlessly, making typing an easy task.
The GTN-0099 V2 has a very simple layout, but this is a detriment in some ways. It has no dedicated media keys or a number pad. If these are features you want, we suggest you look at another model like the Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless. But check out this option for an outstanding ergonomic keyboard that you can start using without learning to type all over again.
The Goldtouch V2 gives a number of wrist positions.
Taking the lead in our list of top gaming keyboards is the Corsair K100 RGB, a true champion known for its exceptional performance and unmatched versatility. This keyboard has rightfully claimed its top position by skillfully blending innovation and functionality, perfectly catering to the demands of devoted gamers. Some standout features of this model are its customizable control wheel and dedicated macro keys. Thoughtful engineering empowers gamers to streamline and execute intricate commands effortlessly, greatly enhancing convenience and adaptability during intense gaming sessions. The K100 shines at triggering complex commands with a single press or carrying out a series of in-game actions, making it an ideal gaming keyboard.
Nonetheless, no product is flawless. Despite excelling in various aspects, the Corsair K100 has a minor shortcoming regarding on-the-fly macro capabilities. This limitation might be a tad disappointing for users who seek rapid customization and real-time adjustments. If you want a model with a little better convenience and palm rest, check out the SteelSeries Apex Pro, which is less expensive.
Corsair OPX and Cherry MX Speed switches can offer gamers a new way to experience their favorite games.
Macro creation lacks the intuitiveness of other options
The gaming-focused Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro undoubtedly emerges as a formidable and elite gaming keyboard. This unit boasts an extensive array of customization possibilities, complemented by an ingenious illuminated palm rest that amplifies the overall gaming ambiance. A noteworthy inclusion is the volume roller, which facilitates swift audio adjustments, and the remarkably adaptable layout that contributes to exemplary performance across diverse gaming scenarios. Crafted meticulously through a dual-shot molding process, the keycaps boast enduring labeling, ideal for intense gaming. This attention to detail showcases Razer's commitment to high-performance products. The plush wrist rest, featuring vibrant Razer Chroma RGB lighting, ensures comfort during extended gaming, reducing wrist strain.
However, the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro does have minor imperfections. Some users might struggle with identifying media key icons during fast-paced gameplay. Also, creating macros could require more effort to navigate compared to alternative gaming keyboards on the market. Instead, you may prefer the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT, which offers customizable keys and specific macro controls.
The V4 Pro is an all-around spectacular gaming keyboard
The Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT gaming keyboard presents an exceptional budget-friendly choice that maintains robust features and functionalities. Through its extensively customizable keys and dedicated macro buttons, gamers can tailor their gaming encounters to harmonize with their inclinations and gameplay style. The spill-resistant construction assures durability, imparting tranquility during intense gaming sessions, while the captivating RGB lighting imbues the gaming setup with a lively and immersive aura. It has an IP42 rating, protecting it from spills and dust. With six dedicated macro keys, users can attain a competitive advantage by programming intricate macros or designating streaming commands. This all-encompassing gaming keyboard is a judiciously-priced option, furnishing gamers with all the essentials to thrive without straining their budget.
Nevertheless, it's worth deliberating on certain shortcomings of the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT. Although functional and responsive, the membrane switches might not yield the same gratifying tactile sensation and endurance as mechanical switches. This aspect could concern users who place a premium on long-term dependability and prefer the tactile experience of mechanical keyboards. Furthermore, while the accompanying clip-in palm rest offers a degree of comfort, some users might find it comparatively less preferable in comparison to the integrated or detachable palm rests seen on alternative models. Despite these considerations, the cost-effectiveness and feature-rich design present an appealing choice for anyone seeking a customizable and budget-friendly gaming keyboard. Those looking for a mechanical model should take a look at what the affordable Redragon K552 Mechanical has to offer.
The Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT stands out as a feature-rich budget gaming keyboard.
The Kensington Pro Fit Ergonomic Wireless gives great ergonomics on a budget. It's wireless and connects seamlessly via Bluetooth, and the Bluetooth has three power settings. This lets you conserve battery life when closer to your computer or turn the bandwidth up when farther from your device. It has an ergonomic shape and reverse tilt to get your wrists in the most comfortable position, too. This device won't be destroyed if you spill a drink on it, since it's spill-resistant. We've all had this happen, especially when you spend 40+ hours per week at your computer.
While the Pro Fit Ergonomic has media buttons, you also have to press the function button to use them. Also, there is nowhere to store the USB dongle on this keyboard, so be careful you don't lose it. Even considering these minor downsides, if you're looking for an ergonomic keyboard, this is a great choice for those on a budget. If you want dongle storage, direct your attention towards the Logitech G915 TKL.
The Kensington Pro Fit Ergo Wireless gives multiple slope options to dial in your perfect hand position.
Credit: Laura Casner
Best Value for a Keyboard with Mechanical Switches
For an inexpensive keyboard with mechanical switches, check out the Redragon K552 Mechanical. This gaming keyboard is tenkeyless and uses Outemu Blue Key mechanical switches. These switches are far superior to rubber dome switches. Although, they can be less consistent between keys compared to some switches. The keys on this board are backlit and come with 19 lighting presets. Eight of these presets group keys by color for gaming-specific organization. You can also customize which keys stay illuminated, and save these settings to two different profiles. It also has a 12-key rollover.
The K552 does not have any software to support it, though. It also doesn't have any standalone macro keys, media keys, USB passthrough ports, nor does it have a palm rest. This mechanical gaming device balances size, performance, and price. If you're looking for a mechanical keyboard that won't break the bank, check this model out. On the other hand, if you want an option with software and media keys, take a look at the Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless.
Though not as deluxe as some offerings, the affordable Redragon K552 is a great mechanical keyboard for gaming.
The Logitech K380 Multi-Device has a compact and thoughtful design at an affordable price. It's easy to figure out immediately out of the box, and easily switches between up to three devices connected via Bluetooth. It also has round keys and looks sleek overall. When pounding on the keys it feels very durable, too. This is reassuring, considering this device is the perfect size to throw in a backpack. The keys have a quiet click that isn't annoyingly loud, and they have a pleasant feel to them as well. It has shortcut keys for MacOS and Windows.
The K380's round keys take a little getting used to. Initially, we missed a few keystrokes, but once we got used to the shape, we had no more issues with them. Also, this keyboard still requires alkaline batteries. This isn't as convenient as a rechargeable model, either. However, for an affordable, versatile model that will go anywhere and connect to practically anything, we can live with having to change the batteries every two years. If you value ergonomics, we like the design of the keys featured with the Goldtouch GTN-0099 V2 Adjustable.
The Logitech K380 packs in a lot of functionality across a wide range of devices with Bluetooth connectivity; all these features make it a great value.
The Kinesis Freestyle2 is an excellent option for users wanting full customization. If you know just what you want from a keyboard, this is definitely worth a look. This can be set up in many positions. There is a flexible pivot in the middle, so you can tent it as high or low as you want. It can separate at this pivot, too, so you can position each side almost any way you could dream up. Whatever extras you want, whether that's a tenkey pad, wrist wrest, or more, Kinesis makes an add-on for this model.
However, anything you want to add to the Freestyle2, you'll have to buy separately. It isn't terribly expensive on its own, but once you start adding parts, the price increases. Also, the function key is a toggle, which is not ideal. Overall, this is an excellent choice if you want to customize it to exactly your specifications. But if you want an inexpensive keyboard and don't require full customization, the Kensington Pro Fit Ergonomic Wireless may be all you need.
The Kinesis Freestyle2 is completely customizable, arrange it however you want on your desk.
The Logitech G915 TKL is a high-end, tenkeyless keyboard with some of the best features available. It has customizable backlighting and many key functions you can set yourself, too. You can save two lightning and three macro profiles into its memory. It works with Windows and MacOS, and connects via Bluetooth or the 1-millisecond Lightspeed performance USB receiver. It features 12 hotkeys. It also has a G-shift feature that allows each hotkey to perform a second function. And of course, this has media keys as well.
The G915 TKL is one of the most expensive keyboards you can buy. If you don't think you'll use all these features, you might be better off buying a different one. Also, it isn't as thin as some models, so some might find it less comfortable to use. All that being said, if you want an awesome wireless keyboard you can use in your day job and game with at night, we highly suggest this one. On the other hand, we recommend the Logitech K380 Multi-Device if you need a wireless model on a budget.
The Logitech G915 TKL has some of the most cutting edge keyboard tech available.
Credit: Jason Peters
How We Test Keyboards
Our team tested and rated all these keyboards for different qualities depending on the model type and its intended use. We carried out tests on the wireless models that rated their connectivity, ease of use, battery life, portability, and features. We assessed the lighting customization on gaming keyboards, as well as ease of programming, convenience, palm rest, and overall performance. We wrote emails and reports, surfed the web, gamed for long hours, and carried them to the office. We inspected their construction, weighed them, and we measured them. In short, we put these devices through the wringer to find the best of the best. To see more info on our test procedures, check out our how we test article for gaming keyboards and our article on how we tested wireless keyboards.
Why You Should Trust Us
Over the years here at GearLab, we've tested more keyboards than we can count. We use them every day in the office to write the gear reviews you trust, and we test them all as rigorously as any other tech products that we review. We put every device through thorough test procedures and meticulously record the results. We purchased all these keyboards at retail prices, just as you would, from the same popular merchants you shop at.
The test team for this review is led by Sam Schild, Austin Palmer, and Ross Patton. Sam is a writer and outdoor industry professional based in Denver, Colorado. He's followed many career paths in life; he's worked as an academic, public school teacher, and bicycle mechanic. In all these career paths, he's used many keyboards over countless hours. He finds joy in adventures big and small and the tools to make the journey better. He appreciates a well-made piece of technology, whether it makes wordsmithing easier or lights his way on a dark fall run.
Senior Research Analyst at GearLab, Austin Palmer, is a dedicated gamer in his free time and an electronics specialist during the workweek. Over the last half-decade, he has been on the leading edge of testing everything from VR headsets to smartwatches. All told, Austin spends the majority of his waking hours with his fingers dancing across a keyboard. Austin found his love for tech early in life when he got his first Nintendo (NES) console. He spent many hours blowing into cartridges to no avail until inspiration struck and he started taking apart and rebuilding anything that didn't work. After dropping console gaming at the end of high school, Austin entered the world of PC online gaming. His love of gaming and his love of problem-solving soon led him to build his own computers.
Ross has been testing gear for over a decade. He has tested hundreds of tech products side-by-side, including power tools, top-ranked bluetooth trackers and everything in between. With the combined knowledge and experience of our testers, you can rest assured that you are reading an unbiased and straightforward review.
The SteelSeries Apex Pro has some awesome backlighting.
Testing the Logitech MX Keys Advanced in our office testing facility.
Testing the Logitech K480's tablet and phone holding feature.
How to Buy the Right Keyboard
Choosing the right keyboard for your intended use is essential. You'll probably be using it for many hours at a time, so you want to make sure it has the features and is comfortable enough to fit your needs. Many different kinds of products can be used for multiple uses, but having the right design and features for certain tasks will likely be easier and potentially more comfortable.
If you're typing hundreds of words an hour for many hours at a time, you're going to want a different device than you would if you're gaming. If you need a keyboard that will connect to multiple devices and is small enough to carry with your laptop, there is an option for that as well. The right design can make your work easier, whether that work is emailing or gaming. We'll walk you through all the different types of models available to help you decide which features are right for you.
What Do You Want to Do With Your Keyboard?
Before choosing a keyboard, it's essential to know what kind of use you're going to get out of it. If you want something that's good for the occasional word document or sending longer text messages on your smartphone, that's going to be a very different product than a tenting model that prioritizes ergonomics. If you want a mechanical keyboard for gaming, that will be very different than an ergonomic model optimized to reduce wrist fatigue.
Most of these tested products are multi-use, but some are also very specialized. Many of the products in this guide will meet your needs if you're casually looking for a device to make your laptop more comfortable to type at.
But while many of these products certainly look like standard keyboards, most are intended for a specific use. We don't think you have to have the exact right keyboard for every use case, but there are certain factors you should consider if you're serious about a specific use. We'll outline those below.
Wireless Keyboard
Wireless keyboards are usually the smallest and most portable designs. They connect to a variety of devices via Bluetooth, a USB receiver, or both. Sometimes wireless models sacrifice certain features to be lightweight and portable. These models are easiest to throw in a bag with you and bring to work. They also take up less real estate on your desk. But, not all wireless models are small and light. Some of them have a full tenkey pad and plenty of extra buttons, like media controls and more.
The Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless connects easily via USB Dongle or Bluetooth.
Credit: Jason Peters
Ergonomic Keyboard
Ergonomic keyboards typically have a non-traditional shape to them so that your hands, wrists, arms, and elbows are in a more natural position. Ergonomic models can often split into pieces, bend into a tent shape, or both. Typically, these designs are for people who spend long hours at their computers. But really, ergonomic keyboards are great for anyone who uses a keyboard regularly since they're better for the joints in your arms and hands.
Ergonomic keyboards help to alleviate problems with posture caused by traditional models.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Gaming Keyboards
Gaming keyboards are optimized for pressing a lot of keys quickly, often all at once. They usually connect to a computer via a USB cable because that's the fastest possible connection. Gaming models usually have keys with mechanical switches so that every time you press a key, you never miss a keystroke and lose in your game. They are often customizable in areas such as keystroke depth, backlight colors, and more.
The adjustable key actuation distance is just one of the many customizable features on the Apex Pro.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
What Else To Look For
Once you've figured out the style that best suits your needs, looking at the specific design features of different individual models will help you narrow down the field considerably.
The Redragon K552 is a pared-down and affordable mechanical keyboard for gaming.
Credit: Laura Casner
Connectivity
Keyboards generally can connect to a computer or other device in one of three ways: a cable, radio frequency and USB receiver, or Bluetooth. Some models have multiple options for connecting to your computer or other devices as well.
A keyboard connected to your computer via a wire provides the fastest connection possible.
Credit: Jason Peters
A wired keyboard is the simplest and fastest connection. You simply plug it into your computer and can start using it. A lightning-fast connection is very important for gaming, but for most other applications, a super-fast connection like this isn't necessary. The wire creates extra clutter at your workstation, too.
The Logitech G915 TKL connects via USB Dongle or Bluetooth.
Credit: Jason Peters
A keyboard that comes with a small USB receiver, or dongle, connects to your computer via this little device. The USB dongle is a radio frequency receiver that takes the signal sent by the keyboard and feeds it to your computer via the USB port. Models that connect with a USB dongle like this are the second fastest connection. However, you need to not lose that tiny USB dongle, or you'll render your keyboard useless. Many models have a place to store a dongle, but not all of them do.
The Logitech K380 connects to your computer via Bluetooth signal.
The portability and ease of switching between devices make the K380 a great choice for use with a tablet, laptop, or phone.
A keyboard that connects via Bluetooth is by far the simplest connection. It does take the most work to connect the first time, but the process is usually pretty quick. Once you've paired a Bluetooth keyboard to your computer, it will automatically connect whenever it's turned on and in range.
Ease of Use
This metric assesses how simple it is to use each device. When rating for ease of use, we assess how simple it is to connect the keyboard to a computer. We also examine what features make it easier or more difficult to use. If it requires becoming an expert on an owner's manual before starting, a product won't score as high as if it is simple to use right out of the box.
Features
We rate every product based on what features make your user experience better. Features like backlighting make working in dark rooms easier, which is important for gaming keyboards. Features like media keys to control or pause music can help with productivity and are very convenient. Having the ability to switch between devices easily is a great feature for those who are always working on multiple screens. Having a tenkey pad is a nice feature for some, but if you prioritize portability, then this feature isn't as great.
With the Logitech K480, switching between devices is as simple as turning a dial.
Credit: Jason Peters
Portability
This measures how easily a keyboard can be packed and brought with you. We weigh and measure every product during testing to assess this rubric. Some models have other specific portability features, like smaller keys or folding features.
Ergonomics
For ergonomics, we measure how well each device minimizes discomfort. We evaluate each model's natural feel and pleasantness by using each one for many hours at a time and recording how our hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders feel when in use. Design aspects such as lateral angle, slope, tenting, and having a palm rest all affect the ergonomics of a device.
The ability to separate into two halfs on the Goldtouch V2 gives you more options to increase comfort.
Credit: Jason Peters
Software
Some keyboards come with software to help you set up and customize them. The complexity of this software varies greatly and isn't all that necessary for many users. But if you want to get the most out of a higher-end or a gaming keyboard, then whether or not it comes with software to customize is important. The best software is easy to learn and operate, and allows you to navigate the complexities of customizing things like macros and other shortcuts, multiple screens and devices, backlighting, and more.
Installing Logitech's unifying software, which works on both Mac and PC.
Credit: Hannah Marshall
Battery Life
Most keyboards have a fairly long battery life. In fact, wired models have infinite battery life since they're drawing power from the computer they're connected to, as long as that computer has power.
If a keyboard is wireless, it needs its own battery supply. Some devices use alkaline batteries to power them. These batteries need to be replaced every so often, but it's generally a few months of use before a keyboard will need new alkaline batteries. We like to use rechargeable batteries in our keyboards and wireless mice to keep trash out of the landfill and save money over time.
Some models have rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. These batteries tend not to last as long as alkaline batteries, but since they're rechargeable, it isn't a big deal. Most keyboards can be used while they're being recharged via a USB cable. And since you're generally using a keyboard with a computer, finding a power source isn't an issue, either.
The Logitech G915 TKL recharges via USB cord and can be used while charging.
Credit: Jason Peters
Conclusion
We hope this guide helps make your buying decision a little bit easier. After assessing your goals and needs, choose one from this list that fits your needs best. We're always looking for the best new keyboards, so rest assured, we'll keep buying, using, and reviewing the best ones to help you find the right product for your needs and budget.
