We received a call recently from a long-time customer who wanted to upgrade his wireless keyboard. That was all the push Chris needed to do some research for a new toy! But, before I reveal what his new favorite is, let’s talk a little about seven different features you might look for in a new wireless keyboard.
1 – Mouse:
First, you need to decide if you want the keyboard to be paired with a mouse. The benefit is that you would only have to use one USB port on your machine. The downside is that not all keyboards come with a mouse, and you may decide that the wireless keyboard you can’t live without, doesn’t have a mouse.
2 – Ten-Key:
What’s your preference? Using the numbers along the row above the letters, or do you prefer to use the number pad off to the right of a standard keyboard?
3 – Media Keys:
Do you want to manage additional tasks from your keyboard? I like that I can control the volume from my keyboard, I can open a window to send a new email, I can open a new browser window, and so much more.
4 – Backlight:
Do you often work in a darkened room? You may want to consider a backlit keyboard. The laptops that Chris has been designing recently all come with a backlit keyboard, which is useful when you’re working in bed next to your sleeping spouse. If you primarily use your wireless keyboard at your desk, you probably don’t need a backlight.
5 – Size:
How big of a keyboard do you want? Do you want a portable one that clips onto your tablet? Should it be foldable to fit into your backpack? Or do you want a full-sized wireless keyboard that you can leave on your desk?
6 – Tactile Response:
Clicking? Silent? If this is important to you, make sure you know ahead of time what the keyboard will do.
7 – Ergonomics:
If you have issues with carpal tunnel or spend all day typing, you may want to look for a keyboard that has a unique design to keep your wrists in the proper position while typing.
I have a laptop. I don’t need a separate wireless keyboard!
That’s what I used to think. But my laptop is on the small side, and the keyboard is too. My fingers were continually confusing keys and mis-spelling words. Worst of all, the heal of my hand would accidentally touch the keypad, and the mouse would go flying to a different part of the screen. It was very frustrating. I’ve since learned that I’m not the only one to experience this. I solved this by purchasing a wireless keyboard, which is the size of a conventional keyboard, and works well for me.
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- Chris’ new favorite keyboard is called the Logitech Craft. It has a funky knob on the top left side which allows you to adjust images in Photoshop or Illustrator. It has a backlit keyboard and (WHAT?!) can manage up to three devices from the single wireless keyboard! It’s compatible with both Mac’s and PCs. This one retails for $199, but Amazon and Best Buy currently have it priced at $170. I’ve seen it on other sites at prices ranging from $179 to $199
- The wireless keyboard I had been using for the past few years suddenly died last month. I purchased a Logitech MK320, and I love it. It came paired with a mouse, which means only one USB thingie. That’s important to me because my laptop only has three USB ports. It has a separate ten-key which I like. And, as I mentioned above, I can manage more than just typing with this device! The keys are big enough that my fingers don’t confuse the “m” and the “n.” Overall, I like it and loved the price. It retails for $40, but Amazon currently has it priced at $32 and Best Buy for $25.
- If you’re looking for a great keyboard for your kids, the wired LearningBoard keyboard comes highly recommended. It encourages learning and has very good reviews. Amazon has it for about $ 40.
- Chris likes the Microsoft Surface keyboard, although this is a keyboard only. You’ll have to purchase the mouse separately.
- Chris LOVES this Wired keyboard from Das Keyboard. Its niche is People who like a very high precision keyboard that has a lot of physical/tactile feedback when typing. It has media control keys and a volume control knob. One of its claims to fame is that it clicks when you type. Amazon has it for $170. If you miss the old typewriters, this is the one for you!
Please forward this to your colleague who constantly has spelling mistakes.
Note: This guide to purchasing a wireless keyboard was initially published on 15 January 2109 and updated on 17 October 2019.
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Chris Eddy of Geek For Hire, Inc. has been providing computer service to families and small businesses with Mac’s and PCs for the past eighteen years. His company is highly rated by both the BBB (Better Business Bureau) and by Angie’s List. You can find more on our website, or give us a call 303-618-0154. Geek For Hire, Inc. provides onsite service (Tier 3) to the Denver / Boulder / Front Range area as well as remote service throughout North America.
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