Wireless Keyboards Sorted by Type
Office Keyboards
Wireless office keyboards are suitable for working with desktop workstations. They offer standard ergonomics and key layout. The models differ in their features and level of user comfort.
Gaming Keyboards
The key parameters for gaming keyboards are fast key response and maximum ergonomics. Gaming keyboards tend to include macro buttons, backlit keys, and the option to switch off the keys that would interfere with gaming. Due to all these extras, you should also expect higher power consumption and purchase price.
Compact Keyboards
A typical feature of compact keyboards is the minimalist design, often at the cost of multimedia keys or a numeric keypad. However, they don’t take up much space in the bag when you are travelling, so it may be a good trade-off. This category includes tablet keyboards and models with an integrated touchpad.
Numeric Keypads
These are mainly designed for work purposes and can come in handy if, for example, your laptop doesn’t have a standard numeric keypad or the keyboard layout or key travel just feels uncomfortable to you.
PC/TV Remote Control
Keyboards with remote control are designed for use in the living rooms or presentation rooms. Aside from PC, they can be used to control compatible Smart TVs or gaming consoles, usually via an integrated touchpad.
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Wireless Keyboards Sorted by Features
- Backlit keys - an absolute must if you often work at night or use the wireless keyboard to control your Smart TV. High-end models allow you to control the intensity and change the colour of the backlight.
- Multimedia keys - separate keys that control music and movie playback on your PC and connected devices or provide quick access to mail and other applications.
- Macro keys - programmable keys that execute a pre-programmed sequence of commands after a single press. This can save you a lot of time if you need to enter complex commands over and over again.
- Integrated touchpad - replaces a classic mouse or can be used to control Smart TVs or gaming consoles.
- Mechanical switches - tougher and more durable than standard switches. They are ideal for users who type long text documents etc.
- Built-in display - displays useful information such as battery life, time, etc.
How to Connect a Wireless Keyboard
- Wi-Fi keyboards are the most widespread and also the most affordable. A small receiver must be plugged into your computer’s USB port in order for it to work. The connection is established automatically within several seconds.
- Bluetooth keyboards are more expensive than wireless USB keyboards. On the other hand, this keyboard keeps your USB ports blissfully free. Your computer must have Bluetooth support if you want everything to work as it should.
- USB connection is supported by select wireless keyboards to keep them functional in case the batteries run out of power unexpectedly.
Note: Wireless keyboards require their own power supply, which is usually provided by a set of AA batteries or AAA batteries or an integrated battery. Batteries increase the weight of the keyboard and need to be replaced on a regular basis. Battery life varies by model and keyboard usage.
Other Useful Features of Wireless Keyboards
- Keyboard layout - if you require characters specific for a particular language, pay attention to this parameter.
- Key travel / travel distance - this is purely a matter of preference; some people prefer the standard travel distance, others like the shorter travel distances typical for laptop or chiclet keyboards.
- Spill resistance - a seemingly minor feature appreciated by anyone who has ever spilled a cup of coffee on their keyboard.
- Hand proximity detection - an energy-saving feature that automatically turns on the keyboard backlight.
- Control of multiple connected devices - enables you to connect up to 3 devices at the same time and quickly switch between them.
