You use your keyboard more than any other tool at work, but a generic model can slow you down, cause typos, and even lead to discomfort like wrist or shoulder pain.
Picking a keyboard that's right for your job is a smart way to boost your productivity and stay comfortable. This guide will help you find the perfect fit, starting with four simple questions.
4 Key Questions to Ask Before Buying a Keyboard
Answer these four questions to figure out exactly what you need from a keyboard. This will help you narrow down the huge market of options to only the ones that make sense for you.
Do I Use the Number Pad a Lot?
The answer to this question will dictate the dimensions of your keyboard, making it the primary consideration. For people who work in accounting, finance, bookkeeping, or typing a lot of data, a full-size computer with a number pad on the side is a must. Faster than hunting for the numbers on the top row, you can punch them in quickly with one hand without looking. This function is a must-have for anyone who uses spreadsheets all the time.
If you only type numbers occasionally, you have more options. You could still get a full-size keyboard, or you could choose a smaller model to save desk space and simply buy a separate, standalone number pad that you can plug in when needed.
How Much Desk Space Do I Have?
Look at your desk. Is it cluttered? Do you feel like you don't have enough room to move your mouse freely? A large keyboard can force your mouse into an awkward, far-out position, which can lead to shoulder strain over time.
This is when small layouts come in handy. If you want to free up some desk room, a "Tenkeyless" (TKL) keyboard is a popular option. It's basically a full-size keyboard with the number pad cut off. There are even smaller choices, like 75% or 65% layouts, which pack the keys in closer together to save even more space. Your mouse hand will therefore have more room to move organically.
Do I Get Sore Wrists or Hands from Typing?
If you end the day with aching wrists, finger fatigue, or forearm pain, your keyboard is likely part of the problem. An ergonomic keyboard is specifically designed to reduce this strain. While they can look unusual, they work by putting your hands in a more natural position.
You use your keyboard more than any other tool at work, but a generic model can slow you down, cause typos, and even lead to discomfort like wrist or shoulder pain.
There are a few types. "Split" keyboards are divided into two halves, allowing your wrists to stay straight instead of bending outward. Some models also offer "tenting," which means you can angle the two halves up in the middle, like a tent, to reduce forearm twisting. Others are built in a curved or contoured "bowl" shape that matches the natural curve of your fingertips. It can take a week or so to get used to, but for those with chronic pain, an ergonomic keyboard can be a complete game-changer.
Do I Use More Than One Computer or Tablet?
People often switch between different gadgets in their modern workspaces. You could have a desktop computer for everyday use, a laptop for work, and a tablet or phone for texting. For this task, a keyboard with Bluetooth that works with multiple devices is very helpful.
It would be nice to be able to type a long report on your main computer and then use the same easy keyboard to quickly and fully respond to a text message on your phone with just one press of a button. After that, you can quickly switch to your computer to take notes in a meeting with one more press. All of your gadgets work together, and your work goes much more smoothly.
Find the Right Keyboard for Your Job
Different jobs have different needs. A good keyboard can make your day much easier whether you work with numbers, words, or pictures. Here’s what to look for based on your role.
For the Number Crunchers: Accountants & Analysts
If you work in spreadsheets all day, the number pad is your most important tool. A full-size keyboard is the clear winner here. Beyond the layout, the keys themselves are crucial. You'll want keys that give you a little "bump" or "click" when you press them. This is called tactile feedback, and it helps you know a number has been entered correctly without having to look down, which reduces mistakes.
A slightly heavier key switch can also be beneficial, as it can prevent you from accidentally pressing a key twice. A standard, familiar layout is also important so you don't have to retrain your muscle memory.
For the Wordsmiths & Coders: Writers & Programmers
Typists need keyboards that last a long time and are easy to use for long periods of time. This is why a lot of people pick a mechanical keyboard. They're made to last and give you a more steady, satisfying feel. The type of switch under the keys can be changed to suit your needs. "Brown" switches, for instance, have a quiet bump that's great for an office, while "Blue" switches have a loud, rewarding click. It's easy to type quickly on "red" switches because they are smooth and light.
The way it's built is also important. If you type a lot, a metal-framed keyboard will be more stable on your desk than a cheap plastic one because it is heavy. Keyboards with programmable keys are great for coders because they let them make macros, which are short-cuts for popular commands and pieces of code.
For the Creative Professionals: Designers & Editors
For designers and video editors, desk space is often tight. A big drawing tablet or other gear can leave little room for a keyboard. A compact keyboard without a number pad is the perfect solution. But smaller doesn't mean less capable. Many of these keyboards come with special features designed for creative work.
A programmable rotary knob, for instance, can be set to control screen brightness, audio volume, or to zoom in and out of a canvas in Photoshop. In video editing, you could use it to scrub through your timeline. Some keyboards even have hot-swappable switches, allowing you to use a different type of switch for specific keys.
For the All-Round Professional: Office & Admin Staff
People in administrative and general office roles need a keyboard that’s a reliable jack-of-all-trades. A standard full-size keyboard is usually a safe bet. In a busy office, a quiet keyboard is important so you don't disturb your coworkers. High-quality membrane keyboards are great for this, as they are naturally quiet and often spill-resistant, which is a practical bonus.
If you prefer a mechanical feel, look for models with "silent" switches. A reliable wireless connection is another great feature to help reduce cable clutter and keep your desk tidy and professional-looking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a mechanical and a membrane keyboard?
Most standard keyboards are "membrane," which are quiet and use a soft rubbery layer under the keys to register a press. "Mechanical" keyboards have individual physical switches under each key. They are more durable, feel more satisfying to type on, and come in many varieties, like clicky, smooth, or bumpy, so you can pick the exact feel you prefer.
Are ergonomic keyboards hard to get used to?
It can take a few days to a week to get used to the different shape of an ergonomic keyboard because it changes your hand position. There's a definite learning curve. But once you adjust, most people find them much more comfortable and notice a lot less strain on their wrists, arms, and shoulders at the end of the day.
Is a more expensive keyboard really worth it?
Most of the time, yes. A keyboard's price generally shows how well it's made and what features it has. A model that costs more might have a strong metal frame instead of a plastic one, keycaps that won't fade, or high-quality mechanical switches that can handle tens of millions of presses. It could also have features like lights that can be changed, wireless charging, or the ability to be programmed.
Sometimes it's worth the extra money to buy a good computer because you use it for hours every day.
What's the difference between wired and wireless keyboards?
A wired keyboard connects to your computer with a USB cable. Its connection is extremely reliable, and you never have to worry about batteries. A wireless keyboard connects via Bluetooth or a dedicated 2.4GHz USB dongle. Its main advantage is a clean, cable-free desk setup and the flexibility to move it around. Modern wireless keyboards are very reliable, but you will need to recharge them or change the batteries occasionally.
Invest in Your Most Important Tool
The keyboard links your thoughts to the screen. It's sensible to choose one that fits your job to work faster, make less mistakes, and stay comfy. Knowing what you do every day can help you find the best keyboard to do your job better and feel better while doing it.
