Whether you’re typing up documents, gaming for hours, or casually browsing the internet, your keyboard plays a massive role. It directly affects how comfortable and productive you are. But did you know there are many different keyboards, each designed with specific users and needs in mind?

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through 15 different types of keyboards—from the classic ones you see in offices to some more niche models designed for specialized work or gaming. Let’s dive right in and help you discover which one might be best for you!

Table of Contents

• 1. Mechanical Keyboards
• 2. Membrane Keyboards
• 3. Scissor-Switch Keyboards
• 4. Gaming Keyboards
• 5. Ergonomic Keyboards
• 6. Wireless Keyboards
• 7. Wired Keyboards
• 8. Compact Keyboards (60%, 75%, TKL)
• 9. Virtual Keyboards
• 10. Flexible Keyboards
• 11. Chiclet Keyboards
• 12. Projection Keyboards
• 13. Mechanical Gaming Keyboards
• 14. Multimedia Keyboards
• 15. Backlit Keyboards

1. Mechanical Keyboards

These are favorites among gamers and typists who appreciate tactile feedback and audible clicks. Each key has its mechanical switch, giving a satisfying “clicky” feel. They’re durable and highly customizable but can be noisy and pricey.
Best for: Gamers, writers, and programmers who love feedback while typing.

2. Membrane Keyboards

Unlike mechanical keyboards, membrane keyboards use a pressure pad system under the keys. They’re usually quieter and cheaper but may feel mushy and less responsive.
Best for: Casual users, office environments, and people on a budget.

3. Scissor-Switch Keyboards

You’ll find these mostly on laptops. They use a scissor-like mechanism beneath each key for stability and faster keystrokes. In terms of feel and performance, they balance mechanical and membrane keyboards.
Best for: Laptop users and folks who prefer a low-profile keyboard.

4. Gaming Keyboards

Gaming keyboards are known for their features, such as RGB lighting, customizable keys, anti-ghost keys, or quick response. A few gaming keyboards have mechanical switches, but this is not a feature for all.
Best for: Gamers looking for speed, precision, and customization.

5. Ergonomic Keyboards

These keyboards are specifically made to lessen the pressure on your hands and wrists. Most have a split or curved form to make the typing position more natural.
Best for: People who type for long hours and want to avoid wrist pain or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Related Articles
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6. Wireless Keyboards

As the name suggests, these keyboards don’t use cables. They are connected to your computer through Bluetooth or a USB dongle, making your workspace better organized and more mobile.
Best for: Minimalist setups, mobile workers, or people who hate cable clutter.

7. Wired Keyboards

While not as flashy, wired keyboards offer a reliable, lag-free connection. You don’t need to worry about battery life or wireless interference.
Best for: Office workers, gamers, or anyone who prefers a stable, straightforward connection.

8. Compact Keyboards (60%, 75%, TKL)

Small keyboards discard the number pad, functions row, and other unnecessary keys to eliminate the cluster. They are great for compact tables or individuals who prefer a minimalist look.
60%: No function row or arrow keys.
75%: Includes function keys but still compact.
TKL (Tenkeyless): Excludes the number pad only.
Best for: Gamers, programmers, and minimalist enthusiasts.

9. Virtual Keyboards

These are software-based keyboards that appear on a touchscreen. You’ll find them on smartphones, tablets, and even PCs when using touchscreens.
Best for: Mobile users, touchscreen devices, and accessibility needs.

10. Flexible Keyboards

Flexible keyboards are made from silicone or similar materials. They can be coiled or bent for transport convenience. They’re waterproof and dust-resistant, yet they may not provide the most superior typing experience.
Best for: Travelers, field workers, or environments prone to spills and dust.

11. Chiclet Keyboards

Chiclet keyboards feature flat, square keys with rounded corners, separated by space—like the gum they’re named after. They’re quiet and stylish, often used in laptops and modern desktop setups.
Best for: Office work, students, and users who prefer a clean aesthetic.

12. Projection Keyboards

This is futuristic tech at its finest. A small device projects a laser outline of a keyboard onto a surface. When you “type,” sensors track your finger movements.
Best for: Tech lovers, travelers, or people who want to impress their friends.

13. Mechanical Gaming Keyboards

A sub-type of mechanical keyboards, these are explicitly fine-tuned for gaming. They offer lightning-fast actuation, RGB lighting, and macro programming.
Best for: Hardcore gamers and eSports players.

14. Multimedia Keyboards

A multimedia keyboard is similar to a standard one but comes with extra buttons that allow you to control your computer’s media functions. These additional keys can also be used for volume control, play/pause, and music or video player launching shortcuts.
Best for: Home office setups, multimedia lovers, or casual users who multitask.

15. Backlit Keyboards

Backlit keyboards are ideal for work or gaming in conditions with low illumination, as the keys are illuminated using LED lights. Some may also come with personalized RGB effects.
Best for: Night owls, gamers, and aesthetic-focused users.

Final Thoughts

There are different types of keyboards, which are much bigger than they seem at first glance. Whether you do not sit in front of the PC often or are the only one in the room looking for comfort, a specific keyboard is out there waiting for you. Its features will meet your needs.

As a result, you should at all times remember to take into account the following factors when deciding which keyboard to take with you on your next adventure:

• Your primary use (gaming, typing, travel, etc.)
• Layout preferences (full-size, TKL, compact)
• Connection type (wired or wireless)
• Special features (RGB lighting, media keys, ergonomic design)

Take your time to test a few if possible, and don’t be afraid to try something new—you might find that your dream keyboard differs from what you thought.