What are the top ten computer keyboards for 2020? There are a lot of opinions out there but I’m going to break down the best keyboards for business professionals and online web surfers.
I will state right up front that I am not looking for or have any intention of ranking the best gaming keyboards. Those fall into a different category.
What Makes Great Computer Keyboards?
In this new age of computers and connectability with everyone seemingly having access to a laptop and smart phone, maybe it’s time to consider what you use more than anything else when you are on the computer. It’s your keyboard. So, what makes a great computer keyboard?
- Connectivity – Many keyboards can connect wirelessly and will connect to more than one device like your smart phone and tablet. If you are on the go and are always connecting to the internet than this may be high on your list of wants or needs.
- Portability – This is really important to many people today. Is your keyboard lightweight, thin, does it fold up?
- Comfort – How comfortable is your body position and the keyboard and will you start feeling the strain of typing after several hours.
- Key Switches – Did you know there are three main type of key switches? Each one has their place.
- Silicone Dome
- Scissor Switches
- Mechanical Switches
- Backlighting – Do you work in low light or at night? Make sure your keyboard is backlit.
- Gaming – Gaming keyboards are a huge market and everyone seems to want the latest cool, multicolored, programmable keys with great sensitivity and durability.
These are some of the things to consider when looking for the right keyboard.
Here are the Top Ten Computer Keyboards
Please allow me this disclaimer.
There are many types of keyboards and many users with different needs so this is my opinion as to the top keyboards on the market. I am an engineer that spends a lot of time designing highways, creating my own websites and occasionally joining in an online game. I am not looking for anything that is solely portable or for gaming. I need comfort, durability and a keyboard that can meet my demands as I transition from work to my own online business, and then to play games occasionally.
Here is my top ten computer keyboard list. It is not ranked in any way other than the ones near the top showed up more on product reviews and customer reviews than the others.
- Wide compatibility: Windows 8 or later , Mac OS X 10.10 or later , iOS 5 or later , Android 5.0 or later Chrome OS
- Aircraft grade anodized brushed aluminum frame: Built to withstand a lifetime of gaming. Lightweight and rugged durability, necessary for a keyboard that's going to see a lot of action
- 8MB profile storage with hardware macro and lighting playback: Allow access up to three stored profiles on the go, independent of external software. Wrist rest: Full length, detachable, dual sided with soft touch finish. The keyboard report rate is 1000 Hz
- Dynamic multicolor per key backlighting with light edge: Adjust each key's color and illumination level in addition to 19 zones on the top edge light bar for sophisticated and dramatic animations
- 100% Cherry MX speed RGB mechanical key switches: Unleash blistering speed with the 1.2mm actuation and durability of gold contact Cherry MX mechanical key switches. PC with 2 USB 2.0 ports Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, or Windows Vista; An internet connection is required to download the Corsair utility engine software
- 6 programmable G keys for in game macros: Assign single keystrokes or complex multi key combos to any of the 6 dedicated macro keys
- WIRELESS, RECHARGEABLE CONVENIENCE — Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad connects wirelessly to your Mac, iPad, or iPhone via Bluetooth. And the rechargeable internal battery means no loose batteries to replace.
- WORKS WITH MAC, IPAD, OR IPHONE — It pairs quickly with your device so you can get to work right away.
- ENHANCED TYPING EXPERIENCE — Magic Keyboard delivers a remarkably comfortable and precise typing experience. Its extended layout features document navigation controls for quick scrolling and full-size arrow keys. The numeric keypad is ideal for spreadsheets and finance applications.
- GO WEEKS WITHOUT CHARGING — The incredibly long-lasting internal battery will power your keyboard for about a month or more between charges. (Battery life varies by use.) Comes with a Lightning to USB Cable that lets you pair and charge by connecting to a USB port on your Mac.
- SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS — Requires a Bluetooth-enabled Mac with macOS 10.12.4 or later, an iPad with iPadOS 13.4 or later, or an iPhone or iPod touch with iOS 10.3 or later.
- CHERRY MX RGB mechanical key switches with gold contacts deliver the ultimate performance and competitive advantage of mechanical keys
- 8MB Onboard profile storage with lighting and hardware macro playback to take your gaming profiles with you
- Per-key RGB backlighting deliver dynamic and vibrant lighting effects with virtually unlimited customization
- Dedicated multimedia and volume controls to adjust your audio without interrupting your game
- USB pass-through port provides convenient access to an additional USB port for your mouse or headset
- CORSAIR iCUE software enables vivid dynamic lighting control, sophisticated macro programming and full-system lighting synchronization across compatible CORSAIR peripherals, coolers, fans and more
- 4 PROFESSIONAL MECHANICAL KEYBOARD - The thinnest mechanical keyboard in the world! The combination of tactile feel, the psycho-acoustic experience and incredible craftsmanship all deliver an unmatched typing experience that only Das Keyboard 4 offers. With a Das Keyboard 4, you'll type faster and longer. It feels so good, you won't want to stop.
- PREMIUM TACTILE EXPERIENCE - Best-in-class Cherry MX Blue mechanical key switches provide tactile and audio feedback so accurate it allows you to execute every keystroke with lightning-fast precision. Factory lubricated stabilizers on large keys for smooth typing with bumps on the F and J keys. Enjoy the tactile experience you love from a mechanical keyboard, with just enough sound to satisfy you - and not annoy your coworkers!
- UP TO 50 MILLION KEYSTROKES - Laser-etched keycaps for maximum durability are paired with Cherry MX Blue switches, giving your new mechanical keyboard life up to 50 million keystrokes. High-performance, gold-plated switches provide the best contact and typing experience because, unlike other metals, gold does not rust, increasing the lifespan of the switch.
- FULL N-KEY ROLLOVER - Fast typists, productive professionals and gamers will appreciate that Das Keyboard 4 supports full NKRO over USB. No need to use a PS2 adapter anymore. Just press shift + mute to toggle to NKRO (works with both Windows and Linux).
- 2 PORT USB 3.0 HUB & MORE - The convenience to charge USB devices & simultaneously upload content through USB is right at your fingertips. A blazing fast 2- port USB 3.0 hub to transfer music, high resolution pics & large videos at up to 5Gb/second. That’s 10x faster than USB 2.0. Extra long 6.5ft(201cm) USB cable w/ single USB A connector. Dedicated media controls w/ LARGE VOLUME KNOB & instant sleep button. Magnetically detachable footbar ruler to raise the keyboard to an optimal 4-degrees.
- NO-NONSENSE FEATURES TO GET THE JOB DONE - The Prime 13 is a minimalist, beautiful, and rock-solid keyboard that seamlessly connects the user to the machine for maximum creativity and productivity. Focus on the task at hand and let the keyboard disappear from your mind, seamlessly connecting it to your work displayed on the monitor.
- PREMIUM TACTILE EXPERIENCE - Best-in-class Cherry MX Brown mechanical key switches provide tactile and audio feedback so accurate it allows you to execute every keystroke with lightning-fast precision. Factory lubricated stabilizers on large keys for smooth typing with bumps on the F and J keys. Enjoy the tactile experience you love from a mechanical keyboard, with just enough sound to satisfy you - and not annoy your coworkers!
- UP TO 50 MILLION KEYSTROKES - Laser-etched keycaps for maximum durability are paired with Cherry MX Brown switches, giving your new mechanical keyboard life up to 50 million keystrokes. High-performance, gold-plated switches provide the best contact and typing experience because, unlike other metals, gold does not rust, increasing the lifespan of the switch.
- FULL N-KEY ROLLOVER - Fast typists, productive professionals and gamers will appreciate that Das Keyboard Prime 13 mechanical keyboard supports full NKRO over USB. No need to use a PS2 adapter anymore. Just press shift + mute to toggle to NKRO (works with both Windows and Linux).
- 2 PORT USB 2.0 HUB & MORE - The convenience to charge USB devices and simultaneously upload content through USB is now right at your fingertips. Extra long 6.5 ft (201 cm) USB cable with single USB type-A connector. Dedicated Windows key disable-control for better gaming. Media and special function keys. White LED backlighting.
- Topre capacitive switches provide best-in-class precision and efficiency, requiring only a gentle press to register a keystroke
- Compact, near-symmetrical design condenses a standard keyboard to only 60 keys. Use key combos for a faster typing experience
- Contoured frame and keys allow for smooth movement across keys, reducing hand and finger fatigue.
- Keys are made with top grade PBT, and printed using dye sublimation so legends will never wear off
- Dip switches allow users to assign different functions to keys.
- Type on Any Device: A new type of wireless computer keyboard for your desk that also works with your tablet and smartphone; connect with any Bluetooth-enabled device with external keyboard support. Wireless range: > 10m wireless range
- Easy-Switch Dial: Simply turn the dial of the Logitech K480 keyboard to switch typing between 3 connected Bluetooth wireless devices, you can work with Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, Android, and iPadOS
- Familiar Keyboard Layout: Find all the shortcut keys you use the most, but in a space-saving design that lets you place your mouse close to you, for less arm reaching and better posture
- Integrated Cradle: A cradle to hold your phone or tablet at just the right angle for you to read while you type; fits most phones and tablets up to 0.4 inches thick and 10 inches wide
- Reliable Power: This portable, wireless Bluetooth keyboard comes with 2 pre-installed AAA batteries which can last up to 24 months (2) and is compatible with wired, wireless or Bluetooth mice. Battery indicator light
- Durable and Spill-resistant: The wireless and compact keyboard K480 is also spill-resistant (1) to survive small accidents; it’s a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Quickest Mechanical Switch for Gaming: Razer Yellow switch technology beats competitor, legacy "speed" keys in actuation distance by up to 20%, requiring 45 G of force; ideal for fast-paced gaming requiring high-speed key presses
- Ultimate Personalization & Gaming Immersion with Razer Chroma: Fully syncs with popular games, Razer hardware, Philips Hue, and gear from 30+ partners; supports 16.8 million colors on individually backlit keys
- Fully Programmable Macros: Razer Hypershift allows for all keys and keypress combinations to be remapped to execute complex commands
- Ergonomic, Magnetic Wrist Rest: Made of plush leatherette to maximize comfort over extended gaming sessions
- Durable Construction: Supports up to 80 million clicks; made of military-grade metal top plate
My Final Thoughts
This was another eye-opening research project. I thought I had a great keyboard and all I needed to do was walk into any office supply store and pick out a cheap keyboard and I would be off to the races. That is true but there is so much more out there in the way of keyboards that can improve your typing experience and can also help relax your arms, hands and even help alleviate some physical problems associated with long hours of typing.
So, stop before you run off to that electronics store and see what other options are available to you. Start right here with this review and end up with a new keyboard that will make you wonder why you used that old cheap keyboard for so long.
Please a Comment Below or send my your question by Email.
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- Tri-mode Connection Keyboard: AULA F75 Pro wireless mechanical keyboards work with Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless and USB wired connection, can connect up to five devices at the same time, and easily switch by shortcut keys or side button. F75 Pro computer keyboard is suitable for PC, laptops, tablets, mobile phones, PS, XBOX etc, to meet all the needs of users. In addition, the rechargeable keyboard is equipped with a 4000mAh large-capacity battery, which has long-lasting battery life
- Hot-swap Custom Keyboard: This custom mechanical keyboard with hot-swappable base supports 3-pin or 5-pin switches replacement. Even keyboard beginners can easily DIY there own keyboards without soldering issue. F75 Pro gaming keyboards equipped with pre-lubricated stabilizers and LEOBOG reaper switches, bring smooth typing feeling and pleasant creamy mechanical sound, provide fast response for exciting game
- Gasket Structure and PCB Single Key Slotting: This thocky heavy mechanical keyboard features a gasket structure, extended integrated silicone pad, and PCB single key slotting, better optimizes resilience and stability, making the hand feel softer and more elastic. Five layers of filling silencer fills the gap between the PCB, the positioning plate and the shaft,effectively counteracting the cavity noise sound of the shaft hitting the positioning plate, and providing a solid feel
- 16.8 Million RGB Backlit: F75 Pro light up led keyboard features 16.8 million RGB lighting color. With 16 pre-set lighting effects to add a great atmosphere to the game. And supports 10 cool music rhythm lighting effects with driver. Lighting brightness and speed can be adjusted by the knob or the FN + key combination. You can select the single color effect as wish. And you can turn off the backlight if you do not need it
- Professional Gaming Keyboard: No matter the outlook, the construction, or the function, F75 Pro mechanical keyboard is definitely a professional gaming keyboard. This 81-key 75% layout compact keyboard can save more desktop space while retaining the necessary arrow keys for gaming. Additionally, with the multi-function knob, you can easily control the backlight and Media. Keys macro programmable, you can customize the function of single key or key combination function through F75 driver to increase the probability of winning the game and improve the work efficiency. N key rollover, and supports WIN key lock to prevent accidental touches in intense games
- Multi-function Control Knob: This AULA 75% wireless gaming keyboard is equipped with functional knob to switch gaming mode or office mode. In gaming mode, you can rotate the knob to adjust the brightness of the lights, and click the knob to switch the lighting effects easily; in office mode, rotate the knob to adjust the volume, and click the knob to play or pause. Long press the knob for about 5 seconds to switch modes
- Rii Wired Multimedia Gaming KeyboardProfessional Mechanical feeling backlit gaming keyboard,Ideal for desktop and PC; Can be used for gaming and office,not the real mechanical keyboard,,but it worth more.
- Support Win10, Win8, Win7, Linux, Vista, IBM PC Laptop Pad Google Android TV Box HTPC IPTV Smart TV Mac OS Raspberry Pi ,Chrome OS and Linux OS
- Features rainbow backlight with breathing light function; Press fn + light key to enter into breathing light mode; Press light button thrice to turn off backlight
- Standard 105 Keys full size keyboard; Comes with 11 special designed multi media keys combinations,Measures 17.1 x 5.3 x 0.9 inches
- Automatically enters sleeping mode if not used for 10 minutes; Any key press will awaken and backlights turn back on
Hi Rick, great post! Wow I did not know a keyboard could make such a difference. It is a good review. Do you perhaps know how long a good quality keyboard will last?
The best I can tell you about the longevity of a keyboard is from my personal experience. I have bought good performing keyboards in the past without consideration to longevity and all of my keyboards have lasted at least 6 years or more, unless you spill a soda into it.
I think the bigger question is how long will a keyboard keep up with the ever changing pace of technology. You may have to change out keyboards every 2 to 3 years to keep up with the advancements in technology.
It make sense, the advancements in technology will cause to upgrade before the keyboard is at his end. Thank you Rick
You are welcome and please stop back by and let me know what you get when you buy your next keyboard.
Do you think you are going to go with one from a store or are you considering one from the list in this article?
Buying a keyboard is definitely an option for me in the future as I will do a lot of typing. So I will come back again!
This article has shown me that there are big differences in keyboards. I never thought that one could outdo another. I thought they were all the same, you know, they are just for typing. Thanks for opening my eyes and showing me there are choices to be made to find the best one.
You and I have had the same wrong impression for a long time. I thought all I had to do was going into any electronic store and buy a cool looking keyboard that only cost $20 to $40 dollars. I have done that but now I see there can be a major difference, especially when we type for long hours.
Stop back by and let me know if you buy a new keyboard.
Nice post well-detailed. These are some great keyboards that can really work wonders and make life so much easier. Well detailed post with good information.
Thank you Norman. I actually have my eye on a few of these new keyboards. My concern is more with the easy of using the keys and what type of switches they have.
I currently use a Microsoft Natural Ergonomic 4000 keyboard but I’m pretty sure I can find a keyboard here that has a lot nicer feel and smoothness when it comes to the keys.
Great post Rick. I’ve been looking for a portable keyboard so I can type right in to my phone when traveling without my laptop. It looks like the Logitech Bluetooth Multi-Device Keyboard K480.
What the battery life on unit like this? Do you have to charge it regularly?
Logitech claims the batteries will last up to two years. Maybe that is for users who barely pull the keyboard out and also live in a cold environment.
I think it’s safe to say that you won’t need to replace the batteries in your keyboard for at least a year which is plenty long for me. This keyboard does have a battery life indicator that will give you a heads up when you need to change out the batteries.
You would not need to continuously charge the Logitech K480. It’s probably best to be proactive though and change out the batteries every year.
Hi Rick
Excellent review on these keyboards, you have given here an excellent overview on keyboards I didn’t even know that existed! Well I am no world expert but this is really good to know.
Personally I type A LOT so I need a good durable keyboard with ‘light’ touch keys otherwise my writs get really tired out.
I see that the Happy Hacking Professional Keyboard comes with a slot for your phone – is this a charger too? or only a place holder to see what you are typing? And is it only form Apple Mac computers or can it be used for Androids too?
Cheers – Orion
Hi Orion and thank you for the questions on the Happy Hacking Pro2.
I apologize for the confusion but the Happy Hacking Pro2 does not have a holder for your phone. You are seeing the picture of the Logitech K480 below. I will update the article and add some horizontal lines to separate the models better.
The Happy Hacking Pro 2 can be used on PC’s also. The audio controls are for Mac users only.
I hope that helps.