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Like all technology, keyboards have continued to evolve and adapt as user’s needs and wants have changed. If you’re still using the keyboard that came with your computer, you may not be getting the best experience possible. Before buying a new keyboard, it’s important to understand your own specific needs. Is a lack of cables important to you? Would you rather have specific function keys? Do you perform a lot of calculations, making a numeric keypad a necessity? With virtually thousands of options, buying a new keyboard can be a confusing process. But there are several things you should definitely consider as you make your decision.

Corded vs. Wireless vs. Bluetooth

<b>Corded</b></br> Traditionally, keyboards have had a cable that connects the keyboard to the computer using a USB port, hence a corded keyboard, and using a corded keyboard has its advantages. Being connected means you’re free from lag and interference issues, and you don’t have to worry about changing batteries or charging your keyboard, as the keyboard draws power from the computer. However, you are limited by how long the cord is, and the extra clutter of a cable may bother you. If your computer has limited USB ports, using one for a keyboard may be a concern, and you may want to consider a wireless option.
Mobile</br>
If you’re an avid smartphone and/or tablet user, choosing a keyboard that’s compatible with your mobile devices may be important to you. Mobile keyboards can take your device from leisure to work, as answering emails and editing documents on your mobile device becomes as easy as working on your computer. Most mobile keyboards work via a Bluetooth connection so they will require charging or replacement. These keyboards are also generally smaller and more portable so you may not have all the functionality of a full-size keyboard. But, if working on the go is important to you, buying a keyboard that is mobile-compatible may be the answer.

Corded
Traditionally, keyboards have had a cable that connects the keyboard to the computer using a USB port, hence a corded keyboard, and using a corded keyboard has its advantages. Being connected means you’re free from lag and interference issues, and you don’t have to worry about changing batteries or charging your keyboard, as the keyboard draws power from the computer. However, you are limited by how long the cord is, and the extra clutter of a cable may bother you. If your computer has limited USB ports, using one for a keyboard may be a concern, and you may want to consider a wireless option. Mobile
If you’re an avid smartphone and/or tablet user, choosing a keyboard that’s compatible with your mobile devices may be important to you. Mobile keyboards can take your device from leisure to work, as answering emails and editing documents on your mobile device becomes as easy as working on your computer. Most mobile keyboards work via a Bluetooth connection so they will require charging or replacement. These keyboards are also generally smaller and more portable so you may not have all the functionality of a full-size keyboard. But, if working on the go is important to you, buying a keyboard that is mobile-compatible may be the answer.

<b>Wireless</b></br> Wireless keyboards are either receiver-based or Bluetooth-based. Receiver-based keyboards connect to the computer via a nano receiver that plugs into a USB port. Without cords, you are free to position the keyboard where it is comfortable for you. Typically, wireless keyboards operate on a 2.4GHz connection, meaning there is virtually no lag. However, if you need to be completely lag-free, e.g. you’re a serious gamer, you may want to consider a corded keyboard to eliminate lag altogether. There is also the chance for interference, as many other devices operate on a 2.4GHz connection. Another consideration is battery life; as wireless keyboards don’t pull power from the computer, they either use batteries, which must be replaced, or the keyboard itself must be recharged.

Wireless
Wireless keyboards are either receiver-based or Bluetooth-based. Receiver-based keyboards connect to the computer via a nano receiver that plugs into a USB port. Without cords, you are free to position the keyboard where it is comfortable for you. Typically, wireless keyboards operate on a 2.4GHz connection, meaning there is virtually no lag. However, if you need to be completely lag-free, e.g. you’re a serious gamer, you may want to consider a corded keyboard to eliminate lag altogether. There is also the chance for interference, as many other devices operate on a 2.4GHz connection. Another consideration is battery life; as wireless keyboards don’t pull power from the computer, they either use batteries, which must be replaced, or the keyboard itself must be recharged.

<b>Bluetooth</b></br> Bluetooth keyboards connect to your computer or other device via a Bluetooth connection. You can also use them with other Bluetooth-capable devices such as some smartphones and tablets. Using this connection means they don’t tie up a USB port, which may be an important factor for you. Bluetooth keyboards also have the advantage of mobility – with ranges up to 30 ft. you are not limited to direct proximity to your device. However, as with standard wireless keyboards, lag can be a concern – especially at greater distances.

Bluetooth
Bluetooth keyboards connect to your computer or other device via a Bluetooth connection. You can also use them with other Bluetooth-capable devices such as some smartphones and tablets. Using this connection means they don’t tie up a USB port, which may be an important factor for you. Bluetooth keyboards also have the advantage of mobility – with ranges up to 30 ft. you are not limited to direct proximity to your device. However, as with standard wireless keyboards, lag can be a concern – especially at greater distances.

Comfort
the most used parts of your computer. Your hands go to it every time you sit down and it’s probably the last thing you touch. And using a poorly designed keyboard can lead to pain and joint inflammation. Several features can make keyboards more comfortable. Wrist rests can help cushion your wrists as you type. Slim, low profile keyboards and keyboards with adjustable tilt and height can help keep your wrists in a more natural alignment. Or, if you need them, full ergonomic keyboards are also available.
Mobile
If you’re an avid smartphone and/or tablet user, choosing a keyboard that’s compatible with your mobile devices may be important to you. Mobile keyboards can take your device from leisure to work, as answering emails and editing documents on your mobile device becomes as easy as working on your computer. Most mobile keyboards work via a Bluetooth connection so they will require charging or replacement. These keyboards are also generally smaller and more portable so you may not have all the functionality of a full-size keyboard. But, if working on the go is important to you, buying a keyboard that is mobile-compatible may be the answer.

<b>Size</b></br> Full-Size</br></br>
Keyboards, next to displays and mice, are A full-size keyboard will generally give you more functions, such as a full numeric keypad perfect for calculations, or additional features like brightness and volume controls and full-size function keys. Full-size keyboards can also be more comfortable to use, as they allow for more natural hand and wrist alignment while typing and have the size to accommodate more ergonomic features.

Size
Full-Size

Keyboards, next to displays and mice, are A full-size keyboard will generally give you more functions, such as a full numeric keypad perfect for calculations, or additional features like brightness and volume controls and full-size function keys. Full-size keyboards can also be more comfortable to use, as they allow for more natural hand and wrist alignment while typing and have the size to accommodate more ergonomic features.

<b>Additional Features</b></br>
Music Controls</br></br>
Keyboards, next to displays and mice, are
If you listen to music while using your keyboard, selecting a model with music and media controls may be important to you. Having the ability to play, pause, skip tracks, and adjust volume directly from the keyboard means you can virtually control your music without ever leaving the screen your Keyboards, next to displays and mice, are re working on.</br>Smart Function Keys</br></br>
Keyboards, next to displays and mice, are Some more advanced keyboards now have Smart Function keys, either as separate keys or as a function of another key. Every keyboard will vary in this aspect, but some of the more common smart functions include: adjusting the brightness, cut/copy/paste, and search.

Additional Features
Music Controls

Keyboards, next to displays and mice, are If you listen to music while using your keyboard, selecting a model with music and media controls may be important to you. Having the ability to play, pause, skip tracks, and adjust volume directly from the keyboard means you can virtually control your music without ever leaving the screen your Keyboards, next to displays and mice, are re working on.
Smart Function Keys

Keyboards, next to displays and mice, are Some more advanced keyboards now have Smart Function keys, either as separate keys or as a function of another key. Every keyboard will vary in this aspect, but some of the more common smart functions include: adjusting the brightness, cut/copy/paste, and search.

	Wireless Slim Keyboard with Mouse	Mini Wireless Slim Keyboard and Mouse	Bluetooth Wireless Ultra-Slim Keyboard	Bluetooth Wireless Folding Mobile Keyboard	White Corded USB Keyboard	Slimline Corded USB Keyboard (available with mouse)

Corded					✓	✓
Wireless	✓	✓
Bluetooth			✓	✓
Keyboard Folds				✓
Available Colors	Black	Black	Black	Black	Black	Black
Full Numeric Keypad	✓				✓	✓
Adjustable Height/Tilt					✓	✓
Music Controls	✓	✓	✓	✓
Smart Function Keys		✓	✓	✓