Are you a beginner in the world of typing and unsure of what keyboard to buy? Look no further, as we have got you covered! In this article, we will explore the different types of keyboards available in the market and provide you with some helpful tips to consider before making your purchase. Whether you are a student, professional, or someone just starting out, finding the right keyboard can greatly enhance your typing experience. So, let’s get started on your quest to find your perfect keyboard!
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Types of Keyboards
Mechanical Keyboards
Mechanical keyboards are known for their high-quality construction and satisfying tactile feedback. They use individual mechanical switches for each key, which means that each keypress registers accurately and quickly. The switches are available in different variants such as Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh, each with its own unique characteristics. Mechanical keyboards are popular among gamers and typists who value precision and durability. These keyboards do tend to be more expensive compared to other types, but they are worth the investment for those seeking a premium typing and gaming experience.
Membrane Keyboards
Membrane keyboards are often the standard choice for beginners due to their affordability and widespread availability. These keyboards use a rubber dome or a membrane layer beneath the keys, which provides a softer feel when typing. While membrane keyboards offer a quieter experience, the feedback can sometimes feel mushy and less responsive compared to mechanical keyboards. They are commonly found in offices and households due to their budget-friendly nature and versatility.
Scissor Switch Keyboards
Scissor switch keyboards are a hybrid between membrane and mechanical keyboards. They feature a mechanism that resembles a pair of scissors beneath each key, enhancing stability and responsiveness. This type of keyboard offers a more tactile feel compared to membrane keyboards while being quieter than mechanical keyboards. Scissor switch keyboards are often found in laptops and are preferred by users who desire a balance between comfort and efficiency.
Hybrid Keyboards
Hybrid keyboards combine the best features of mechanical and membrane keyboards. They use a mix of mechanical and rubber dome switches to provide a balance of both responsiveness and affordability. Hybrid keyboards are a good option for beginners who want a tactile typing experience without breaking the bank.
Key Features to Consider
Layout and Size
The layout and size of a keyboard can greatly impact the user experience. Keyboards come in various sizes such as full-size, tenkeyless (TKL), and compact. Full-size keyboards include a number pad, while TKL keyboards omit the number pad for a more compact design. Compact keyboards, also known as 60% keyboards, remove even more keys to save space. It’s important to consider the layout and size that best suits your needs, whether it be for gaming, productivity, or portability.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics play a significant role in preventing strain and discomfort during long typing sessions. Some keyboards offer ergonomic designs with curved or split layouts to promote a more natural hand posture and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries. Wrist rests and adjustable tilt angles are also features to consider for enhanced comfort.
Backlighting
Backlighting in keyboards can be both functional and visually appealing. It provides illumination to the keys, making it easier to type in low-light conditions. Some keyboards even offer customizable RGB lighting, allowing you to personalize the color and effects to match your style.
Connectivity Options
Keyboards can connect to devices through various methods, such as USB, Bluetooth, or both. Wired USB connections offer a stable and lag-free experience, while Bluetooth connectivity provides the convenience of wireless use. It’s important to consider the compatibility and range of connectivity options based on your device and usage preferences.
Key Switches
The key switches are an essential consideration when choosing a keyboard as they greatly impact the typing experience. Mechanical keyboards offer a wide range of switch options, including clicky switches for audible feedback, tactile switches for a noticeable bump, and linear switches for smooth keystrokes. Membrane and scissor switch keyboards have their own distinct feel, with membrane offering softer typing and scissor switches providing more stability.
Durability
Durability is an important factor, especially for those who plan on using the keyboard extensively. Mechanical keyboards are known for their durability, often lasting for years even with heavy use. Membrane keyboards can vary in terms of durability, so it’s crucial to look for models with high-quality materials and build construction.
Customization
Some keyboards offer customization options, allowing you to remap keys, create macros, and personalize lighting effects. Customization features can enhance productivity and gaming performance, as you can tailor the keyboard to your specific preferences and needs.
Price Range
The price range of keyboards can vary significantly depending on the type, brand, and additional features. Mechanical keyboards tend to be more expensive, while membrane keyboards are generally more budget-friendly. It’s important to consider your budget and prioritize the features that are most important to your typing or gaming needs.
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Popular Keyboard Brands for Beginners
Logitech
Logitech is a well-known brand that offers a wide range of keyboards suitable for beginners. They provide both mechanical and membrane options at various price points. Logitech keyboards are known for their durability, reliability, and user-friendly designs. The brand is particularly popular among gamers due to their gaming-oriented features and software customization options.
Razer
Razer is a renowned gaming brand known for its high-performance keyboards. They specialize in mechanical keyboards with customizable RGB lighting and dedicated gaming features. Razer keyboards are designed to withstand intense gaming sessions and offer precise keystrokes for optimal gaming performance. While they may be pricier, Razer keyboards are a popular choice for gamers seeking top-notch quality.
Corsair
Corsair is another trusted brand in the gaming community, offering a wide range of mechanical keyboards tailored to different user preferences. Corsair keyboards often come with advanced customization options, detachable wrist rests, and robust build quality. They are highly regarded for their performance, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Corsair keyboards may be slightly more expensive, but they are well worth the investment for serious gamers.
HyperX
HyperX is a popular brand among both gamers and keyboard enthusiasts. They offer a range of mechanical keyboards that prioritize performance and affordability. HyperX keyboards feature durable construction, vibrant backlighting, and options for different switch types. Whether you’re a beginner or an avid gamer, HyperX provides excellent value for money.
Ducky
Ducky keyboards are highly regarded in the mechanical keyboard community for their exceptional build quality and reliable performance. Their keyboards come in various layouts, sizes, and mechanical switch options to suit different preferences. Ducky keyboards often have a minimalist aesthetic and are known for their durability, making them a favorite among keyboard enthusiasts.
Anne Pro
Anne Pro is a brand that caters to both beginners and enthusiasts with their compact and feature-rich keyboards. They specialize in compact 60% keyboards that offer wireless connectivity, RGB lighting, and programmable functions. Anne Pro keyboards are known for their affordability while still providing a premium typing experience.
Mechanical Keyboards for Beginners
Introduction to Mechanical Keyboards
Mechanical keyboards are a popular choice among enthusiasts and professionals due to their precision, durability, and satisfying typing experience. They are characterized by individual mechanical switches beneath each key, which provide a tactile bump or audible click upon actuation. Mechanical keyboards offer faster and more accurate typing compared to membrane keyboards. They are also known for their longevity, with some mechanical switches rated for millions of keystrokes.
Best Mechanical Keyboards for Beginners
When starting out with mechanical keyboards, it’s important to consider factors such as budget, typing preference, and desired features. Some popular mechanical keyboards for beginners include:
- Ducky One 2 Mini: This compact keyboard offers a high-quality build, customizable RGB lighting, and a variety of Cherry MX switch options. It’s a favorite among gamers and those seeking a compact form factor.
- Keychron K6: The Keychron K6 is a wireless mechanical keyboard with a tenkeyless layout, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. It offers hot-swappable switches, allowing users to easily customize their typing experience.
- Anne Pro 2: The Anne Pro 2 is a compact 60% wireless keyboard with customizable RGB lighting and a choice of Gateron or Kailh switches. It offers a great balance between affordability and premium features.
Affordable Mechanical Keyboards
For beginners on a budget, there are plenty of affordable mechanical keyboard options available. Some budget-friendly mechanical keyboards include:
- Redragon K552: This compact keyboard features red backlighting, durable construction, and Outemu switches at an affordable price point.
- Velocifire TKL02: The Velocifire TKL02 is a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard with brown switches, offering a tactile typing experience and solid build quality.
- Royal Kludge RK61: The RK61 is a compact 60% wireless mechanical keyboard with a choice of Gateron or RK switch options. It offers RGB lighting and Bluetooth connectivity at an affordable price.
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Membrane Keyboards for Beginners
Introduction to Membrane Keyboards
Membrane keyboards are a popular choice for beginners due to their affordability and widespread availability. They use a rubber dome or membrane layer beneath the keys, which provides a softer and quieter typing experience compared to mechanical keyboards. Membrane keyboards are often found in offices, schools, and households.
Best Membrane Keyboards for Beginners
While membrane keyboards may not offer the same tactile feedback as mechanical keyboards, there are some options that provide a pleasant typing experience for beginners. Some of the best membrane keyboards for beginners include:
- Logitech K120: This full-size membrane keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience, spill-resistant design, and durable construction.
- Microsoft Wired Keyboard 600: The Microsoft Wired Keyboard 600 is an affordable and reliable option with a slim and compact design. It features quiet keys and multimedia hotkeys for convenience.
- Corsair K55: The Corsair K55 is a membrane keyboard that offers customizable RGB lighting, programmable macro keys, and dedicated multimedia controls. It provides a good balance between affordability and functionality.
Affordable Membrane Keyboards
For beginners on a tight budget, there are several affordable membrane keyboards available. These keyboards offer basic functionality and are suitable for everyday use. Some affordable membrane keyboards include:
- AmazonBasics Wired Keyboard: This budget-friendly keyboard from AmazonBasics provides a simple and reliable typing experience at a very affordable price.
- HP K1500: The HP K1500 is a low-cost membrane keyboard with a full-size layout and quiet keys. It’s a great option for everyday use and basic typing needs.
Scissor Switch Keyboards for Beginners
Introduction to Scissor Switch Keyboards
Scissor switch keyboards are a popular choice for those who want a balance between the softness of membrane keyboards and the stability of mechanical keyboards. They feature a mechanism that resembles a pair of scissors beneath each key, providing enhanced stability and responsiveness. Scissor switch keyboards are often found in laptops and are suitable for both typing and gaming.
Best Scissor Switch Keyboards for Beginners
Scissor switch keyboards offer a comfortable and quiet typing experience, making them a good choice for beginners. Some of the best scissor switch keyboards for beginners include:
- Apple Magic Keyboard: The Apple Magic Keyboard is a wireless scissor switch keyboard designed specifically for Mac users. It features a slim and compact design, rechargeable battery, and Apple’s signature sleek aesthetic.
- Logitech MX Keys: The Logitech MX Keys is a premium scissor switch keyboard that offers a comfortable typing experience, backlighting, and compatibility with multiple devices. It’s a high-quality option for those who value both aesthetics and functionality.
- RAPOO E9100P: The RAPOO E9100P is a wireless scissor switch keyboard with a slim profile and a range of multimedia hotkeys. It provides a reliable and comfortable typing experience at an affordable price.
Affordable Scissor Switch Keyboards
For those on a budget, there are affordable scissor switch keyboards available that still offer a decent typing experience. Some affordable scissor switch keyboards include:
- Arteck HB030B: This wireless keyboard features scissor switches, a compact design, and compatibility with various devices. It offers a good balance between affordability and portability.
- Jelly Comb B046: The Jelly Comb B046 is a wireless scissor switch keyboard with a numeric keypad, making it suitable for both work and gaming. It provides a quiet and comfortable typing experience at a budget-friendly price point.
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Hybrid Keyboards for Beginners
Introduction to Hybrid Keyboards
Hybrid keyboards combine the best features of mechanical and membrane keyboards to offer a balance of responsiveness and affordability. They use a mix of mechanical and rubber dome switches to provide a tactile typing experience without the higher price tag. Hybrid keyboards are a good option for beginners who want a more satisfying typing experience than membrane keyboards without the premium cost of mechanical keyboards.
Best Hybrid Keyboards for Beginners
Hybrid keyboards provide a middle ground between mechanical and membrane keyboards, making them suitable for beginners. Some of the best hybrid keyboards for beginners include:
- Cooler Master SK630: The Cooler Master SK630 is a compact hybrid keyboard with low-profile switches. It offers a premium typing experience with a sleek and minimalist design.
- Hexgears Impulse: The Hexgears Impulse is a wireless hybrid keyboard that combines mechanical switches with rubber dome switches. It offers customizable RGB lighting and a durable aluminum frame.
- SteelSeries Apex Pro: The SteelSeries Apex Pro is a high-end hybrid keyboard with adjustable mechanical switches. It provides a customizable typing experience, quiet operation, and robust build quality.
Affordable Hybrid Keyboards
For beginners on a budget, there are affordable hybrid keyboards available that still offer a satisfying typing experience. Some affordable hybrid keyboards include:
- AULA SI-859: This hybrid keyboard features a compact design, customizable RGB lighting, and a mix of mechanical and membrane switches. It provides a good balance between affordability and performance.
- Redragon K503: The Redragon K503 is a budget-friendly hybrid keyboard with a full-size layout and low-profile keys. It offers multimedia hotkeys and rainbow backlighting for an enhanced typing experience.
Wireless Keyboards for Beginners
Benefits of Wireless Keyboards
Wireless keyboards offer the convenience of untethered typing, making them a popular choice for beginners. Some benefits of wireless keyboards include:
- Flexibility: Wireless keyboards allow you to type from a distance, providing more flexibility in terms of positioning and ergonomics.
- Portability: Wireless keyboards are easier to carry and can be used with multiple devices, making them ideal for those who are constantly on the go.
- Cable Management: With a wireless keyboard, you don’t have to deal with tangled cables or limited desk space. It provides a neat and clutter-free setup.
- Versatility: Many wireless keyboards offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to pair them with various devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Best Wireless Keyboards for Beginners
Wireless keyboards come in a variety of options, ranging from basic to advanced features. Some of the best wireless keyboards for beginners include:
- Logitech K380: The Logitech K380 is a compact and portable wireless keyboard that can connect to multiple devices via Bluetooth. It offers a comfortable typing experience and long-lasting battery life.
- Microsoft Designer Compact Keyboard: This wireless keyboard from Microsoft features a sleek and slim design, Bluetooth connectivity, and an attractive aesthetic.
- Keychron K2: The Keychron K2 is a wireless mechanical keyboard with a compact layout and customizable RGB lighting. It offers a choice of different mechanical switches and can be used with multiple devices.
Affordable Wireless Keyboards
For beginners on a budget, there are several affordable wireless keyboards available that still offer a reliable typing experience. Some affordable wireless keyboards include:
- Arteck HB030B: This wireless keyboard features scissor switches, a compact design, and compatibility with various devices. It offers a good balance between affordability and portability.
- Logitech MK270: The Logitech MK270 is a budget-friendly wireless keyboard and mouse combo. It offers a reliable wireless connection, multimedia hotkeys, and a comfortable typing experience.
- Jelly Comb B046: The Jelly Comb B046 is a wireless scissor switch keyboard with a numeric keypad, making it suitable for both work and gaming. It provides a quiet and comfortable typing experience at a budget-friendly price point.
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Gaming Keyboards for Beginners
Features to Look for in a Gaming Keyboard
When choosing a gaming keyboard, there are several features to consider that can enhance the gaming experience. Some key features to look for in a gaming keyboard for beginners include:
- Mechanical Switches: Mechanical switches offer faster response times and more precise actuation, making them ideal for gaming. Look for keyboard options with switches that suit your gaming style, such as linear switches for smooth keystrokes or tactile switches for feedback.
- Anti-Ghosting and N-Key Rollover: These features allow multiple key presses to be registered simultaneously, preventing missed inputs during intense gaming sessions.
- Customizable RGB Lighting: Many gaming keyboards offer RGB lighting with customizable effects. This feature adds a visual element to gaming setups and can enhance immersion.
- Macro Keys: Macro keys allow you to program complex commands or key combinations onto a single key. This can be useful for executing in-game actions quickly.
- Dedicated Media Controls: Having dedicated media controls on the keyboard allows you to adjust audio settings without interrupting your gaming experience.
- Wrist Rest: A detachable or integrated wrist rest can provide comfort during long gaming sessions and reduce strain on the wrists.
Best Gaming Keyboards for Beginners
Choosing the right gaming keyboard can greatly enhance your gaming experience. Some of the best gaming keyboards for beginners include:
- HyperX Alloy FPS Pro: This compact mechanical keyboard features Cherry MX switches, red backlighting, and a detachable cable. It provides a reliable and responsive gaming experience at an affordable price.
- Razer Ornata V2: The Razer Ornata V2 is a hybrid gaming keyboard that combines the softness of membrane switches with the stability of mechanical switches. It offers customizable RGB lighting, programmable macro keys, and a comfortable wrist rest.
- Corsair K95 RGB Platinum: The Corsair K95 RGB Platinum is a high-end gaming keyboard with an aircraft-grade aluminum frame, customizable backlighting, and dedicated macro keys. It offers a premium gaming experience with a range of advanced features.
Affordable Gaming Keyboards
For beginners on a budget, there are affordable gaming keyboards available that still offer a good gaming experience. Some affordable gaming keyboards include:
- Redragon K552: This compact mechanical keyboard features red backlighting, durable construction, and Outemu switches at an affordable price point. It offers a reliable gaming experience without breaking the bank.
- SteelSeries Apex 3: The SteelSeries Apex 3 is an affordable membrane gaming keyboard with customizable RGB lighting, programmable macro keys, and water resistance. It offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on features.
- Razer Cynosa Lite: The Razer Cynosa Lite is an entry-level membrane gaming keyboard with customizable backlighting and spill-resistant design. It provides a good balance between affordability and gaming functionality.
Conclusion
Choosing the right keyboard as a beginner can greatly enhance your typing and gaming experience. Mechanical keyboards provide a premium and durable typing experience, while membrane keyboards offer affordability and versatility. Scissor switch keyboards offer a balance of stability and softness, while hybrid keyboards combine the best of both worlds. Wireless and gaming keyboards offer additional features tailored to specific needs. By considering the layout, ergonomics, backlighting, connectivity options, key switches, durability, customization, and price range, beginners can find the perfect keyboard to suit their preferences and budget. Popular keyboard brands such as Logitech, Razer, Corsair, HyperX, Ducky, and Anne Pro offer a wide range of options suitable for beginners. Whether you’re a typist or a gamer, there is a keyboard out there that will elevate your experience and make every keystroke a pleasure.
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