5 Features To Consider When Choosing a Keyboard

When you are putting together your computer, you’ll need to purchase a keyboard. Your keyboard along with your monitor is what allows you to interact with your computer. Without one, you will be unable to use your computer.

There are 5 features that you should consider when choosing a keyboard:

This article will go over why each of these categories is important and how they affect the functionality of your keyboard.

1. Wired or Wireless

The first feature that you’ll need to consider when choosing a keyboard is if you want a keyboard that is wired or wireless.

Wired

Wired keyboards are the faster of the two options and have the shortest latency period. However, to use them they must always be plugged into the computer meaning that to use them you must be sitting at your desktop. 

Wireless

Wireless keyboards provide the benefit of being able to move around with you. If you’re giving a presentation on your computer you’ll be able to walk around and carry the keyboard with you to click through the slides. 

The downside to wireless keyboards is that the latency period tends to be higher so if you’re gaming or doing some other activity that requires a rapid response time, a wireless keyboard may not be the right choice. They are also battery powered which means that you will need to charge the keyboard regularly to avoid it dying during use. 

2. Keyboard Switches

One of the most important features to consider that will greatly affect the functionality of your keyboard are the keyboard switches. Keyboard switches are the pieces that go beneath each key that need to press for the key to be triggered. There are several types of keyboard switches that you can find and each has its advantages and disadvantages. 

Silicone Domes

These are the least expensive type of keyboard switch and you’ll often find them used in built-in keyboards. They are the slowest of the types and require tall keys that increase the travel distance between keys.

Scissor

Scissor switches are the next step up from silicone domes and are made from plastic. These allow for lower-profile keys and require less force for the key to work. They are also faster and quieter than silicone dome keyboard switches.

Mechanical

The most expensive type of keyboard switch is the mechanical type which is made from metal. These are typically used by gamers or people in professions that require an extremely quick response time. 

Since they are made from metal, they also have a longer lifespan than plastic or silicone switches making them popular among people who are high-volume typists.

3. Compatibility

When you purchase a keyboard, make sure you check to see that it is compatible with the rest of your computer setup. Most keyboards connect using a USB cable, but there are several types of USB cables on the market. 

If you pick a keyboard with a different type you won’t be able to use it. Therefore, it is important to make sure you pick a keyboard that has the correct cable for your desktop. 

4. Ergonomic or Standard

There are two main forms that keyboards are manufactured in, the standard form and the ergonomic form.

Standard keyboards are just that, standard. They are typically flat and are not made with the typist’s anatomy in mind.

In contrast, ergonomic keyboards are built at an angle and typically have a split design. That way, the wrists are held in a more natural position and undergo less stress and strain throughout the day.

5. Illumination

One last feature to consider before purchasing your keyboard is whether or not you want it to be illuminated.

Illuminated keyboards are great for anyone who frequently uses their keyboards in the dark as they enable you to see the keys more easily.

Nowadays, you can even find keyboards with different colored lights if you would like to enhance your setup even more.

Key Takeaways

Your keyboard is one of the more important pieces that you will buy when setting up your PC. It is what allows you to interact with your computer therefore, it must be functional and comfortable.

There are several features you should look at when purchasing a keyboard. These features include the switches, compatibility, design, and whether the keyboard is wired or wireless.

Every user is going to have a different preference when it comes to these features, so the best thing you can do is try out several keyboards with different features to decide what you like best.