Joybuy Insights

Buying a keyboard: how to choose the right layout, connection and features

Buying a new keyboard may seem straightforward, until you find that the keys are arranged differently, the connection drops out or there is no numeric keypad. If you are looking for a keyboard for home, the office, gaming or a tablet, it pays to look beyond colour and marketing terms.

Three common pitfalls are:

  • Choosing the wrong keyboard layout: QWERTY, AZERTY and US International are not the same. A Belgian AZERTY keyboard feels different from a Dutch QWERTY keyboard.
  • Not paying enough attention to the connection: A wireless keyboard may work via Bluetooth or a 2.4GHz USB receiver. This determines which devices you can use it with.
  • Marketing around mechanical keyboards: “Mechanical” does not automatically mean that a keyboard is quieter, more durable or more comfortable. Check the actual type of switches and the features you need.

1. Check the layout first

For most Dutch users, a QWERTY keyboard with a Dutch or European layout is a logical choice. Do not just check the letters: also look at the position of punctuation marks, the Enter key and special characters.

An AZERTY keyboard is mainly suitable if you are used to the Belgian layout. On a Belgian keyboard, for example, the A and Q are positioned differently from QWERTY. A US International keyboard can be useful for international software and special characters, but it also differs from the Dutch key layout.

Also check whether you need:

  • a Windows keyboard with a Windows key;
  • a Mac keyboard with Command and Option keys;
  • a compact model for a tablet or laptop;
  • a keyboard with a numeric keypad for spreadsheets, accounting or data entry.

A full-size keyboard generally provides 100% of the standard keys, including a numeric keypad. Compact models save desk space, but may require a separate numpad or greater use of the function keys.

2. Choose the connection based on your workspace

A USB keyboard is straightforward: plug in the cable and the operating system will usually recognise the device automatically. A cable of around 1.45 to 1.8 metres provides enough flexibility on a desk. A wired connection is also practical for permanent office setups and gaming.

A wireless keyboard usually works in one of the following ways:

  1. Bluetooth: suitable for laptops, tablets, Macs and devices without a spare USB port. Do check that your device supports Bluetooth.
  2. 2.4GHz via USB receiver: often easy to connect to a computer. You will need a USB-A port or a suitable adapter.
  3. Tri-mode: combines Bluetooth, 2.4GHz and USB-C. This is useful if you switch between multiple devices.

For wireless models, check the power supply. Some keyboards use standard batteries, while others have a built-in rechargeable battery. A rechargeable battery avoids recurring battery costs, but does need to be charged in good time. According to the product description, an Apple Magic Keyboard comes with a USB-C cable and its battery can last for around a month under normal use. This is the stated battery life and may vary depending on how it is used.

3. Look beyond “mechanical”

A mechanical keyboard uses individual switches beneath the keys. These can provide a clearly tactile keystroke, an audible click or a linear movement. A membrane or plunger keyboard works differently and is often simpler and quieter.

No single type suits everyone:

  • Membrane: suitable for general office and home use, with a generally quiet keystroke.
  • Mechanical: appealing to users who want a specific feel or the option to replace switches.
  • Plunger: a middle ground used in some office and combination sets.
  • Hot-swappable: allows compatible switches to be replaced without soldering.

For gaming, anti-ghosting, key rollover, a stable connection and a comfortable posture are also important alongside the switch type. RGB lighting is mainly a control or style choice and, by itself, says nothing about input quality. A gaming keyboard with macro keys can be useful if you use shortcuts or streaming functions, but it is not essential for word processing.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Acer USB Wired Keyboard for Home Work QWERTY US International Black

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

Why it suits this profile: This full-size USB model is designed for straightforward home and office use and, according to the product description, offers plug-and-play compatibility with Windows.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fixed USB cable eliminates the need for batteries and wireless pairing. Do check beforehand that the US International layout suits the way you plan to use it.

Key benefit & advantages

Full-size format, numeric keypad, 1.45-metre cable and water-resistant design according to the product information.

Suitable for: Buyers seeking premium quality
Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad

Apple Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad

Why it suits this profile: Suitable for Mac users with Apple Silicon who are looking for a wireless keyboard with Touch ID and a numeric keypad.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications list Bluetooth, USB-C and a QWERTY EU layout. This allows you to check the key compatibility points in advance.

Key benefit & advantages

Bluetooth, built-in rechargeable battery, Touch ID, USB-C port and numeric keypad. According to the product description, the stated battery life is around one month.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
Corsair K55 RGB PRO Gaming Keyboard

Corsair K55 RGB PRO Gaming Keyboard

Why it suits this profile: This wired gaming keyboard is designed for users who want macro keys, media controls and customisable lighting.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications explicitly mention membrane keys, USB connectivity, anti-ghosting and selective 12-key rollover. You therefore do not have to rely on the term ‘gaming’ alone.

Key benefit & advantages

Six programmable macro keys, five-zone RGB lighting, numeric keypad, wrist rest and IP42 dust and splash protection according to the product details.

Suitable for: Flexible home workers
Dell Pro Compact Silent Keyboard and Mouse KM555

DELL Pro Compact Silent Keyboard and Mouse KM555

Why it suits this profile: A practical keyboard and mouse combination for anyone working across Windows, MacOS, Linux or Android and using a Belgian AZERTY layout.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The connection is not limited to one method: the set supports RF via a USB receiver and Bluetooth 5.1. Do check that AZERTY suits your usual typing habits.

Key benefit & advantages

Mouse included, numeric keypad, media keys, Bluetooth 5.1, RF connection and a stated lifespan of 10 million keystrokes.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about buying a keyboard

What is a suitable keyboard for working from home?

That depends on your computer, layout and how much numerical work you do. For spreadsheets, a full-size keyboard with a numeric keypad is practical. If you have limited space, you can choose a compact model. A USB model is straightforward for a permanent workstation, while Bluetooth is better suited to laptops and tablets.

Is a wireless keyboard better than a USB keyboard?

Not necessarily. Bluetooth gives you greater freedom of movement and eliminates a cable, but it requires charging or batteries. A USB keyboard provides a direct connection and is usually ready to use quickly. Choose based on the number of USB ports, how mobile you are and the devices you want to work with.

How long does a keyboard last?

Its lifespan depends on the key mechanism, usage, maintenance and exposure to moisture. Manufacturers sometimes state a specified number of keystrokes, such as 5 or 10 million. This is a product specification, not a guarantee of a particular service life. Keep the keyboard dry, do not pull on the cable and check whether replacement parts are available before you buy.