Many people believe that keyboards are just for typing text and numbers. However, doing this would be absolutely wrong because keyboards have evolved into more than just a piece of hardware.
Computers can be run on either Windows or Mac – both of these are known as operating systems. The key input interface in these operating systems is called the keyboard, but it has evolved into something more than just an ordinary input device
Why Keyboard is an essential input device for communication
The keyboard consists of different keys that offer different functions. The individual letters and special characters are collectively called character keys. One thing is essential to know, by pressing different keys, you can perform other functions according to your requirements.
Keyboard can be connected to the computer by wire or without wires. Mostly used English language layout in these keys is “QWERTY,” which are the first six letters on the keyboard. The importance of the keyboard depends upon its use. It mainly depends on your needs with regard to websites creation, writing e-books and articles or for any other profession related to typing activities.
The computer keyboard is an important part in any computer user’s daily routine. Not only is it used for typing text, but it also performs many other functions such as entering commands and shortcut keys, plugging in peripherals, communicating with the computer system and operating different types of programming. It is a primary input device that allows the user to manipulate text and data on a computer screen or hard disk drive.
Different types of Keyboards and Keypads
There are many types of keyboards available within these two main categories, which offer a variety of features. Computer keyboards can be divided into two main classes: basic keyboards and extended keyboards. A variety of keyboard technologies are available as well, including scissor switch keyboards (common in notebooks and netbooks) and membrane keyboards (common in desktop computers). Users can experience varying levels of keyboard comfort based on the type of keyboard technology they choose.
1: QWERTY Keyboards:
A QWERTY keyboard is designed to look like old-fashioned typewriters. Generations of typists have become familiar with QWERTY keyboards, which are most commonly used as a form of keyboard instruction.
With QWERTY, you will not need to learn a new system on a keyboard with a different layout if you are comfortable with your word-per-minute typing rate.
Reasons to choose:
Your typing experience is okay, and you don’t want to change it. You can also feel comfortable having a QWERTY keyboard on a shared family computer, as children learn to type using this configuration first.
2: Wired Keyboards
If you wish to choose a keyboard style that meets your needs, wired keyboards offer an affordable and effortless alternative. The USB keyboard connects to an existing USB port and has a lower latency than wireless keyboards.
Reasons to choose:
The ability to draw power from your computer’s own power source rather than batteries that will need to be changed in the future is worth living without one of your USB ports long-term.
3: Numeric Keypads
A numeric keyboard is an easy solution to a problem with computers that do not come with keyboards that have the number pad.
Unlike a built-in minimalist keyboard, this handy gadget is designed to bridge the gap between what you actually need in order to accomplish your tasks and what is built into it.
Reasons to choose:
You want to be able to use numbers and mathematical functions on demand, but your existing keyboard lacks a number pad, and you would like easy access to those functions.
4: Ergonomic Keyboards
A keyboard with ergonomic design minimizes the strain on your body when you type. These sorts of keyboards are often designed so your hands can rest in a more comfortable, natural position while you type.
In addition to reducing stress on your hands, arms and wrists, ergonomic keyboards can also reduce the possibility of developing typing-related medical conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, which is why they are a wise choice for those concerned with posture, hand, arm, or shoulder pain.
Reasons to choose:
The comfort of your typing experience is very critical to you, and you’re willing to spend a bit more for an experience that will minimize the strain on your body while you type.
5:Wireless Keyboards
Wireless RF keyboards are powered by radio frequency antennas or infrared waves to keep you connected.
Having a wireless keyboard offers flexibility while working on a computer without the clutter of excess wires. With a wireless keyboard, you don’t have to worry about cords getting tangled in your bag.
Reasons to choose:
Wireless keyboards give you more freedom, but expensive Bluetooth keyboards seem out of reach.
6: Magic Keyboards
The Magic Keyboard from Apple offers a polished appearance as well as a rechargeable battery. This Bluetooth-enabled keyboard connects automatically to your Mac computer. As with any Apple product, however, the Magic comes at a price; these are some of the most expensive keyboards available today.
A convenient Bluetooth pairing option is also available for the Magic Keyboard, so it pairs with your Mac automatically and works as efficiently as possible. Designed for optimal functionality with your beloved Apple computers, Magic Keyboards are a great choice for Mac lovers.
Reasons to choose:
Having a Mac that supports Bluetooth and a liking for simple, sleek computer accessories is what you are looking for.
7: Backlit Keyboards
A keyboard with an ambient glow can make typing in the dark or in low light easy, as well as provide stunning aesthetic appeal. Whether you prefer a wired or wireless keyboard, backlit keys can boost the ambiance of your gaming and computer work. Although backlit keys are not necessarily a necessity, those with vision issues can benefit from them, as they make it easy to see all of the keys on the keyboard.
Reasons to choose:
A backlit keyboard is a great choice when you want maximum visibility on your keyboard, as well as the ability to see your keys in low light settings. A backlit keyboard is also an aesthetically pleasing choice when it comes to taking your online gaming to the next level.
8: Gaming Keyboards
Especially designed for PC gamers, these types of keyboards offer extra durability as well as fast key response times for split-second action.
There are several different kinds of gaming keyboards on the market. Gaming keyboards are designed to be used for long sessions so you can enjoy your favorite games without interruption. These keyboards may include features such as backlit keys or ergonomically shaped keys.
Reasons to choose:
It is important for you to have a keyboard that is specifically designed to meet your gaming needs, and you are willing to pay a little more in order to have that optimal gaming experience.
9: Flexible Keyboards
There are various types of flexible keyboards made of silicon, which can be rolled up and carried wherever you go. These keyboards feature all the same features of a QWERTY keyboard, but are designed to be as portable as possible. Flexible keyboards are easy to clean and resistant to dust and water, as well as being portable and durable.
Reasons to choose:
You need to be able to take your keyboard everywhere that you go so that you are able to ensure that it remains intact wherever you go, no matter what happens.
10: Mechanical Keyboards
The QWERTY keyboard layout was designed to resemble old-fashioned typewriters. Generations of typists have become familiar with this layout, and most students learn to type using this layout as well.
If you are comfortable with the QWERTY keyboard layout, you will not need to learn another system on a different keyboard layout if you are happy with your word-per-minute typing rate.
Reasons to choose:
On mechanical keyboards, individual springs and switches control key deployment.
Final Words
Even if you do not use a computer more than once a week, you always have to remember that typing is an important part of our daily life. Whether you are in your office working for other people or at home with your family, there is no doubt that keyboard can help you to stay focused and make your work easy. It is because keyboards are associated with the same function on the Smartphone and tabs and iPhone.
You need to find out which keyboards improve your user experience by considering their different types. You should remember that many keyboards have been designed for specific purposes, like gaming keyboards or ergonomic keyboards for writers and programmers who type a lot. To understand your options and the performance you can expect from any model on the market, remember all of these aspects and read through some reviews.
In order to compare and to choose the best keyboard that fits your need, you also need to test any kwyboard before buying via below mentioned keyboard testing tool.