This is a simple guide to help those who are looking to replace or purchase a keyboard with a bit more criteria than price and appearance in mind. It's not a comprehensive guide, but some basic info on the keyboards out there in 2026 in the $10~$80 range.
Choosing the right keyboard can significantly impact your typing experience, productivity, and comfort.
It can even be enjoyed. You build muscle memory with your keyboard so it's worth finding the right one
for your needs. There is a wide array of keyboards available, each with unique
characteristics and advantages. Aside from size and layout, they are categorized by switch type(under
the keys)The main types available new, in today's market are:
Mechanical keyboards, use individual mechanical switches for each key and offer tactile
feedback,
they
are highly customizable, from key switches and keycaps to RGB lighting and programmable macros, you can
make it the way you want it
Membrane keyboards, use a pressure pad system and are typically more affordable, they are
often
a
durability and budget oriented choice, some can even be washable, usually a good choice for tougher
environments like in a kitchen, garage or shop where contaminants and debris may come in contact with the
keyboard, also a good choice for kids who may be prone to accidents and spills, least responsive switch
type, can feel mushy - like the buttons on a calculator, ATM or payphone
Scissor-switch keyboards, commonly found in laptops and offering a balance between feel
and
portability,
they have a scissor-type mechanism under each key which can provide an agreeable feedback experience
Membrane keyboards are the everyday, run of the mill, standard issue keyboard that you have to use at work or school, starting at $10, however there are some higher end models available.
If you like the feel of a laptop keyboard, you'll likely enjoy a scissor-switch keyboard. More options have slowly become available as people find scissor-switch keyboards to be an improvement over membrane keyboards but are not interested in mechanical keyboards.
That takes care of what's under the keys, they can come in a few forms and layouts, adding more customization possibilities:
Full-size keyboards (100%) include all keys including the number pad, function row, and arrow keys, ideal for data entry and users who need all keys readily available. When you need to input numbers it's always more efficient on the number pad. Separate number pads are also available and can be used on the left side of the keyboard for even more efficiency while the right hand is on the mouse.
TKL/80%(tenkeyless) keyboards remove the number pad while keeping everything else, offering a more compact design that saves desk space and allows for better mouse positioning. The perfect layout for most people if number pad isn't a priority, the smaller footprint allows for the right hand on the mouse to be closer to the keyboard which may improve ergonomics.
65% keyboards are even more compact, removing the function row and some navigation keys while keeping the arrow keys and a condensed layout, very clean looking.
Other popular compact layouts include 60% (no arrow keys or function row), 75% (compact but with function row), and 40% (ultra-minimalist). The layout you choose depends on your space constraints, typing habits, and whether you need dedicated keys or are comfortable using function layers.
Make sure you choose a keyboard that is compatible with your operating system and equipment. Some keyboards have specific Mac or Windows symbols printed on certain keys and some may be restricted to only one OS, or if it has software, it may not be compatible with your system.
There are also split keyboards, which are split into two halves, one for each hand, for better ergonomics.
Portable foldable keyboards can be found in full and compact versions.
Wired or wireless?
Wired keyboards offer several distinct advantages: they never need battery charging, ensuring you're never interrupted by a dead battery during important work or gaming sessions.
Additionally, wired keyboards can eliminate one source of radio frequency emissions from Bluetooth connectivity, which can be particularly beneficial for those who are sensitive to electromagnetic fields (EMFs).
The direct connection also typically provides lower latency, making wired keyboards preferred for competitive gaming and precision tasks. Keyboards with detachable cables can allow for custom cables in different colors, lengths and coiled options.
Wireless for aesthetics, a clean look, portability or off-desk use. Batteries usually last long and can be AAA, AA or built in rechargeable.
Currently, mechanical keyboards are most popular amongst those who have gone beyond whatever keyboard they were issued by life. With high customization potential and a pleasant user experience there are many mechanical keyboards to choose from today. Keychron is a reputable brand and I use 2 of their wired keyboards, one TKL and one full sized, each with a different switch. The mechanical keyboard market is quite competitive and can be overwhelming with nearly endless choices which results in more potential for bad keyboards flooding the market based on looks and hype marketing
The main types of key switches are linear, tactile and clicky. And these branch out into their own sub-categories. They can be near silent or sound "thocky", "clacky" or muted, "buttery" being a desired quality for some.
Whether you prefer a $12 membrane keyboard or $300 custom mechanical keyboard, is up to you. I hope this basic guide helps you make an informed decision based on your actual needs and budget.
Inherited less-than-optimal design and "mouse menu diving"
The QWERTY layout you see stamped on your keyboard is not designed to be efficient for typing, but was designed to keep the typewriter from jamming when 2 keys were pressed near simultaneously by fast typists. The letter layout was designed to separate common letter duos and avoid jamming. It's what we're stuck with so may as well get a comfortable and enjoyable keyboard. If you are exceptional, you can learn to use the DVORAK layout, designed for ergonomics and efficiency in English typing.
Whether you are a superuser or just mostly browse and email, it's worth learning the keyboard shortcuts for your most common "moves". Keyboard shortcuts keep your hands on the keyboard instead of moving over to drag the mouse around and go "menu diving" for the command you want to execute.