Media keys are the most commonly found, these allow you to play and pause music and videos on your PC as well as skip songs and control the volume. Some keyboards have special keys that allow you to control functions on your computer. If you want to learn more about mechanical keyboards, have a browse through our gaming keyboard roundup. Mechanical keyboards are available in a variety of switch choices that vary in the sound produced as well as the weight needed to actuate the key. Mechanical keyboards have a cult-like following and offer a tactile typing experience that's almost reminiscent of using a typewriter. It's the cheaper option and is found across the widest number of devices. In reality, both styles work just fine, the majority of the keyboards you will have used are membrane. Some keyboards are advertised as "memchanical" but this is mostly just a marketing term, it means that the keyboard is membrane but the brand has taken some steps to make the keyboard feel closer to a mechanical design. The two main types of switch you will encounter on your search are membrane and mechanical. These styles are largely reserved for keyboard enthusiasts as they take a fair bit of getting used to, for the majority of people we'd recommend sticking with either full-size or TKL. For example, 60% is a popular size that removes the function row and either relocates or removes the arrow keys. Some designs are even smaller and are usually referred to as a percentage of the size of the traditional keyboard. These keyboards are called tenkeyless (TKL) designs, and many prefer them as they take up less desk space, leaving more room for your mouse.
Keyboard SizesĪ traditional keyboard has 105 keys and includes a number pad as well as arrow keys and a function row, many modern keyboards remove the number pad in favour of a smaller and more portable design. With that in mind, we've put together a shortlist of things to think about before you commit to your next keyboard. With such a wealth of options on the market, it can be hard to narrow down the right keyboard for you.
You get a full range of function keys, which is really useful, and we're also serious fans of the keyboard's looks. Its keys are nice and quiet, though with solid travel, and its size makes it a great option for those whose working space changes often. This compact Bluetooth keyboard is multi-device, letting you switch between three paired devices at the touch of a button. If you're not a fan of the small compact design, Azio also makes a bigger version with a number pad.įor its sheer usefulness, it hasn't taken us long to appreciate how impressive the K380 is - all for a very reasonable price.
It also lets users switch between Mac and Windows easily by offering a switch on the back, with a matching wrist rest also featuring to help bring your hands up to level. It's wireless, too, and has a huge battery for long life, as well as working just as well over a Type-C cable. It's an incredibly sturdy and well-made keyboard that's available in a handful of attractive finishes. The mechanical switches are tactile and clicky, meaning the feel and sound are both pretty wonderful. Azio's RCK (Retro Compact Keyboard) is a stunning example of design and aesthetics, and one that's clearly made to emulate the classic typewriter keyboards of yesteryear. If you want your keyboard to be the centre-piece of your trendy chic, succulent strewn office desk, this is that keyboard.