Learn About Keyboards

What is it?

It is an input device that captures user input from key strokes, then sends them to your device. They usually come included with the purchase of your computer.

How does it work?

Keyboards work by doing the following (over simplified) steps:

1. Capture key strokes
2. Send data to device

Look for

• Comfort

  Check how comfortable it is to use

• Numeric Keypad

  Check if they have a numeric keypad

• Backlight

  Check if it has backlight

  Keyboards with backlight make it easy to see your keys in the dark.

• Water Resistance

  Check if it is water resistant

• Wireless

  Check if the keyboard is wireless

  Wireless keyboards can make your desk look cleaner. It can be very useful if used far away from your PC.

• Bluetooth

  Check if the keyboard uses Bluetooth

  Wireless Bluetooth keyboards can connect to your device without using any ports, unlike wireless keyboards without Bluetooth, which usually need a USB port for their wireless receiver.

• Rechargeable

  Check if the keyboard batteries are rechargeable

  Wireless keyboards can either be equipped with rechargeable or non-rechargeable batteries. It is better to get one with rechargeable batteries.

• Input lag

  Check the input lag

  This is very important for fast games. Usually wired is better than wireless.

• Noise

  Check the noise levels from using the keyboard

  It can be annoying to some people around you if you are using a noisy keyboard.

• Compatibility

  Check compatibility with your device ports and OS

Avoid

• Uncomfortable

  Avoid uncomfortable keyboards

  It is very important to get a keyboard that is comfortable for you. Nothing matters as much as comfort. Best way to know is testing it yourself. See if you can try the keyboard before purchase.