Buying a keyboard: how to choose a model that suits your workspace

A keyboard may seem like a simple purchase, until you find yourself dealing with the wrong keys, limited connectivity or an awkward layout every day. If you want to buy a keyboard, it is therefore worth looking beyond colour, lighting or a low price. The keyboard layout, size and connection method are particularly important in determining whether a model remains comfortable to use.

Three common pitfalls deserve extra attention:

• Confusing a US QWERTY layout with a Dutch layout. The position of symbols such as @, € and quotation marks may differ. So do not just check whether it says “QWERTY”; also make sure it is US International.
• Choosing a compact model without considering which keys are missing. A 60% or TKL keyboard gives you more room for your mouse, but usually has no numeric keypad and sometimes no dedicated arrow keys.
• Treating “quiet”, “mechanical” and “ergonomic” as guarantees. These terms do not tell you everything about the actual noise, keystroke feel or posture. Always check the key type, dimensions and features.

The most important specifications when buying a keyboard

1. Choose the right layout: QWERTY, US QWERTY or AZERTY

For many Dutch users, a QWERTY keyboard is suitable, but the exact variant makes a difference. A US QWERTY keyboard or US International model uses an ANSI layout and may have a different Enter key and different symbols from a Dutch ISO version.

Before buying, check:

• The stated language and layout: for example US International, US English or Belgian AZERTY.
• Whether it has a numeric keypad.
• Compatibility with Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, Android or iOS.
• The key combinations for special characters you use frequently.

If you work with figures, accounts or spreadsheets, choose a keyboard with a numeric keypad. For word processing and general office work, a full-size model may be easier to use. Gamers often choose a compact keyboard because it leaves more room for mouse movements.

2. Wired or wireless keyboard?

A USB keyboard usually works via plug and play: connect the cable and the system recognises the device. A wired connection requires no batteries and is practical for a desktop computer or gaming PC. Do check that the cable is long enough for your setup. For example, the Acer USB Wired Keyboard has a 1.45-metre cable.

A wireless keyboard usually connects via Bluetooth or a 2.4GHz USB receiver. Bluetooth is useful for laptops, tablets and phones, while a USB receiver is suitable for devices without Bluetooth or for straightforward installation. Look at:

• The number of devices you can pair.
• Whether a USB receiver is included.
• Batteries or a built-in rechargeable battery.
• The stated wireless range.
• Whether the keyboard can still be used while charging.

A multi-device keyboard is useful if you switch between, for example, a laptop, desktop and tablet. According to the product information, the Rapoo 9010M supports connections via 2.4GHz and Bluetooth 4.0/5.0 and can switch between up to four devices.

3. Size, keys and noise level

A full-size keyboard usually uses a 100% layout and has a numeric keypad. A compact keyboard with a 75%, TKL or 60% layout saves desk space. Check in advance which keys are missing or available via a function key.

The switch type also affects the experience:

• Membrane keys: often affordable and suitable for office and home use.
• Scissor switches: low profile, light keystrokes and usually quieter; similar to many laptop keys.
• Mechanical keyboard: uses individual switches. The keystroke feel, sound and pressure required vary from one switch to another.
• Hall-effect or magnetic switches: designed for adjustable actuation and gaming features. Check that the required software and compatibility match your system.

A quiet keyboard is particularly practical in a shared office, during video calls or at home when others are sleeping. However, “quiet” does not automatically mean silent. A low-profile, membrane or scissor mechanism can reduce noise, but the surface underneath and the way you type also make a difference.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

acer USB Wired Keyboard for Home/Work QWERTY US International Black

Why it suits this profile: This full-size USB model is designed for home and office use. The QWERTY US International layout, 105 keys and plug-and-play connection make setup straightforward.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The wired USB connection avoids the hassle of batteries or pairing. However, check beforehand that the US International layout suits the way you type.

Key benefit & highlights

Full-size design, numeric keypad, 1.45-metre cable and a water-resistant product description.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality

AJAZZ AK820 75% Wired Mechanical Keyboard

Why it suits this profile: This mechanical keyboard combines a 75% layout with hot-swappable switches, PBT keycaps, a volume knob and RGB lighting. It is ideal for users who want to customise their keystrokes and layout.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications clearly state the size, number of keys, PBT keycaps and Type-C wired connection. This shows you in advance what you are sacrificing compared with a full-size model.

Key benefit & highlights

Hot-swappable design, volume knob, gasket construction and compatibility with Windows and Mac according to the product information.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users

AULA WIN60HE 60% Wired Gaming Keyboard

Why it suits this profile: This compact gaming model is designed for players who want to free up desk space and use adjustable actuation. The product information lists Hall-effect magnetic switches, Rapid Trigger and an 8K polling rate.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications make it clear that this is a 60% model. It therefore has no numeric keypad, helping to prevent the wrong choice for users who enter lots of figures.

Key benefit & highlights

RGB lighting, mechanical magnetic switches and adjustable actuation down to 0.01 mm according to the product listing.

Frequently asked questions about buying a keyboard

Is a wireless keyboard suitable for working from home?

Yes, provided you have enough USB ports or Bluetooth and take batteries or charging into account. A multi-device model is practical if you use several devices. If you work exclusively at a desktop, a USB keyboard offers a simpler connection.

How long does a keyboard last?

Its lifespan depends on usage, construction and maintenance. Manufacturers sometimes state a key lifespan, such as millions of keystrokes, but this is a product specification rather than a guarantee of the keyboard’s total lifespan. Keep the keyboard dry, do not pull on the cable and remove dust carefully with a soft cloth or a suitable air blower.

Does a wireless keyboard use a lot of power?

A battery-powered model generally uses little power during normal office work, but actual battery life depends on usage, connection and battery type. A built-in rechargeable battery needs to be charged periodically. Check whether the stated battery life comes from the brand’s product information and whether you can continue typing while the keyboard is charging.