With more work being done online than ever before, it is important to pick the right keyboard for work. This is because the type of keyboard you choose can directly impact your comfort and productivity during long work hours of typing. Most keyboards can be bought via retailers, manufacturers or even suppliers such as this one https://hken.rs-online.com/web/.  Below, we have listed down some key factors to consider before buying a keyboard for work.

Ergonomics

For workers who need to spend hours upon hours typing on their keyboards, they should consider getting one that has basic ergonomic features. This describes products that have been designed with functionality, comfort and the movement of the human body in mind and can reduce the risk of musculoskeletal problems in the long run. 

Ergonomics can take many different forms, with some keyboards having curves, splitting keys, or even motorised. Those who are planning to use an ergonomic keyboard should anticipate a learning curve while their hands adjust to relearn how to move. But in the long run, their hands and wrists will thank you since these keyboards reduce the stress placed while typing.

Wired or wireless

Similar to mice, whether or not a keyboard is wired or wireless will come with personal preferences, although each has its own pros and cons. Wired keyboards can limit a user’s distance range, but they do not have to spend time searching for batteries or worry about connection mishaps. On the other hand, wireless keyboards allow users to type while sitting anywhere, and their keyboards will never get tangled with any cords or wires. 

For wireless technology, most keyboards use either USB or Bluetooth technology. For those opting for Bluetooth connectivity, ensure that the other device has built-in Bluetooth compatibility. If it doesn’t, you will need to get a Bluetooth receiver and pair.

Hotkeys and media keys

Most keyboards come with some form of hotkeys and media keys except for travel keyboards. Similar to keyboard shortcuts, these keys allow users to perform tasks quickly and more efficiently. Media keys generally include tasks such as video and volume control, which are great for those who need to work in loud or noisy environments. 

Hotkeys on the other hand allow users to complete specific tasks by pressing a combination of buttons. Many keyboards replace these combinations with one-touch buttons, which can help save a lot of time in the long term.

Keyboard size

Keyboards come in a variety of different sizes! Smaller keyboards typically remove the number pad and may even have shorter and smaller keys or no spaces between buttons. These are useful if the keyboard is for a table device or if a user needs to constantly move from place to place. On the other hand, larger keyboards have more media keys and hotkeys. 

Other variables

Backlit keyboards

Backlit keyboards are almost the same as any other keyboard, except as their name suggests, they emit light from behind the keys. This not only looks attractive but also makes the keys easier to see, especially in low lighting. Some keyboards even offer custom light settings that users can use to colour-code different areas for various tasks.

Flexible keyboards

For those who are looking for a keyboard that can easily roll up and carry, they should consider getting a flexible keyboard. These wobbly keyboards are usually made of silicone, so they are straightforward to clean, durable, and can typically withstand minor spills without any problems. They are also very portable, which is great for those who need to travel often.

Dvorak keyboards

A Dvorak keyboard has a layout that is very different from what people are normally used to – which is the QWERTY keyboard, named after the order of the keys. The aim of a Dvorak keyboard is to increase typing speed and reduce the strain and motion on hands, so its design lends itself to a faster, more straightforward action.

Mechanical keyboards

Most mechanical keyboards are typically designed to look and feel like a classic typewriter. They often produce more tactile and audible clicks as a person types.

Membrane keyboards

Membrane keyboards tend to be less expensive than other types due to the materials they are constructed from. This also makes them comparatively quieter too. The individual keys are pressure sensitive and there is often no space between keys.

Numeric keyboards

The tiny add-on keyboards generally resemble a calculator but without a display. Their purpose is to add a numeric pad to a user’s setup if their keyboard does not originally have one.

Other things to think about

Cleaning and maintenance

Buyers should also consider how easy it is to clean a keyboard, as dust and debris can affect its performance. This may in turn affect a user’s productivity levels.

Warranty

People should look for keyboards with warranties, so long as they can provide peace of mind in case of defects or issues.

Lifespan

Users should check the switch lifespan frequently, which is typically measured in millions of keypresses. High-quality mechanical switches often have longer lifespans when compared to cheaper ones.

Durability

Access the keyboard’s build quality, including the materials used for the keycaps and the frame. Mechanical keyboards tend to be more durable when compared to other types of keyboards.