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7 Best Keyboards for Writers
I just love the feel of holding a pen and letting it free flow upon my favorite Moleskine. Seeing the words pour out upon the paper makes me feel like one of the great classic writers of old. But… Let’s be real for a second. Writing by hand is a thing of the past. And when doing some serious long form writing… Thank goodness. I just don’t see how those Old Masters did it. Hand cramps for days… Yikes. Luckily, we’re in the 21st Century and have awesome word processing capabilities and keyboards that make our writing lives easier.
But are all keyboards built the same? They’re just a bunch of plastic keys. Can’t be that different, right?
Wrong. Some are mechanical. Some are backlit. Some are ergonomic. Each one is unique.
So, let’s jump in and take a look into some of the best keyboards for writers!
The Best Keyboards for Writers
- Roccat Vulcan
- Microsoft Sculpt
- Logitech K780
- Azio Retro Bluetooth Artisan
- Razor Huntsman Elite
- Microsoft Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard
- Corsair K68
1. Roccat Vulcan (Best in Show)
Sale
ROCCAT Vulcan 121 AIMO Tactile Mechanical Titan Switch Full-size PC Gaming Keyboard with Per-key AIMO RGB Lighting, Anodized Aluminum Top Plate and Detachable Palm Rest – Black
- TITAN SWITCH MECHANICAL (TACTILE) - Designed and built entirely by ROCCAT engineers and...
- ADVANCED ANTI-GHOSTING - Technology optimized for gamers to ensure every key stroke of the...
- AIMO ILLUMINATION - ROCCAT’s proprietary lighting eco-system connects compatible devices...
- MIXER-STYLE MEDIA CONTROLS - The volume dial and backlit media buttons allow you to adjust...
- CUSTOMIZED YOUR WAY - ROCCAT’s Easy-Shift[+] technology adds a secondary function to...
Not to play on the whole Vulcan thing, but this keyboard is like the Starship USS Enterprise of Keyboards. Its futuristic look and feel make you feel like Captain Kirk boldly typing what no man (or WOMAN!) has typed before. And it’s not just the look of this keyboard that sets it apart from others. It’s the keys themselves. The keys are Roccat Titan Switches that claim to be 20% faster than any other mechanical keyboard on the market. The keys provide maximum bounce back with minimum chatter allowing for a smooth typing experience. On top of that (literally), the Roccat comes equipped with an aluminum top plate. This adds a lightweight durability to this awesome typing experience. The biggest drawback to this keyboard is its price. It’s not necessarily the cheapest option on this list, but definitely one of the best keyboards for writers.
2. Microsoft Sculpt (Best Ergonomic Keyboard)
Sale
Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard for Business (5KV-00001 )
- Split keyset design helps to position wrists and forearms in a natural, relaxed position
- Cushioned palm rest provides support and promotes a neutral wrist position
- Domed keyboard design positions wrists at a natural, relaxed angle
- Separate number pad provides greater flexibility for workspace setup
- Natural arc key layout mimics the curved shape of the finger tips
When it comes to ergonomic keyboards, it’s one of two things. You either hate them or love em. Their unique split design can be confusing to some. But those that use them love the comfort they provide. This keyboard has all the bells and whistles of a premium ergonomic keyboard. Contoured palm resting pads, domed keyboard design positioned, angled keys, the works. If you’re looking for an ergonomic keyboard… This is your best bet. Just like the Roccat above, the Microsoft Sculpt is not cheap. But… well worth the money for those who spend the majority of their time on a keyboard.
3. Logitech K780 (Best Wireless Keyboard)
Sale
Logitech K780 Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard for Computer, Phone and Tablet – FLOW Cross-Computer Control Compatible
- Multi-device wireless keyboard: Beautiful type-on-everything keyboard with easy switching...
- Logitech FLOW cross-computer typing: Use as a regular keyboard or combine with a...
- Comfortable typing: Full size, fully equipped keyboard with large, quiet keys and...
- Integrated phone and tablet stand: Holds your devices at the perfect angle to type and...
- Wide compatibility: Windows 8 or later , Mac OS X 10.10 or later , iOS 5 or later ,...
Are you a Mac owner? Or perhaps you’re a PC person? Do you use a tablet or smartphone to write? Doesn’t matter This keyboard is like the one size fits all of keyboards. It is compatible with nearly every device you can think of. And… it’s wireless! Just connect via Bluetooth and you’re ready to go. The keyboard takes only two AAA batteries and claims that it can run up to two full years on a single set. Now, that’s impressive. When it comes to wireless capabilities and compatibility, this Logitech should be your top choice.
4. Azio Retro Bluetooth Artisan (Ms. Congeniality Award)
Sale
Azio Retro Classic Bluetooth (Elwood) - Wireless/USB Wired Leather Vintage Backlit Mechanical Keyboard for PC/Mac, Walnut Wood (MK-RETRO-W-01B-US)
- A classic reborn: design originated by vintage typewriters and crafted with ultramodern...
- Genuine & luxurious: Genuine leather or wood top plate. Leather reflects taste,...
- Tactile. Clicky. Backlit: the backlit mechanical keys are tuned to be tactile and...
- Forged. Polished. Plated: The keyboard frame is forged with aluminum alloy and plated into...
- High versatility: Fully supports Windows or Mac, and connects wirelessly via Bluetooth or...
Now, if you’re like me this might just be the keyboard for you. For me, writing isn’t just a hobby. It’s a passion. A total experience. And… I may just be a little extra at times. This keyboard is a full on package. It’s funky and retro, but high functioning and practical. The clicky clack of the keys emulates an old-school typewriter. And it may have one of the coolest top plates around. Leather framed by a zinc aluminum alloy. But as far as practicality is concerned, it comes equipped with Bluetooth so it can be used as a wireless device. It is also supported on both Mac and PC. So good looks and great function… This thing reminds me a lot of me. But like some of the others on this list… It can be a bit expensive.
5. Razor Huntsman Elite (King of the Keystrokes)
Sale
Razer Huntsman Elite Gaming Keyboard: Fastest Keyboard Switches Ever - Clicky Optical Switches - Chroma RGB Lighting - Magnetic Plush Wrist Rest - Dedicated Media Keys & Dial - Classic Black
- The #1 Best-Selling Gaming Peripherals Manufacturer in the US: Source - The NPD Group,...
- Faster Than Legacy Mechanical Switches: Razer Optical switches use light-based actuation,...
- Ultimate Personalization & Gaming Immersion with Razer Chroma: Fully syncs with popular...
- Quality, Aluminum Construction: Covered with a matte, aluminum top frame for increased...
- Ergonomic, Magnetic Wrist Rest: Made of plush leatherette to maximize comfort over...
The Razor Huntsman Elite definitely lives up to its name as being an elite keyboard. It has one of the fastest response times available on the market today. The keys are super lightweight and easy to press, but provide that clicky assurance that we are all looking for. Oh, did I forget to mention its durability rating? The Huntsman Elite boasts a durability of up to 100 MILLION keystrokes. Jeez Louise! That’s insane. For professional writers, the Razor may be the perfect choice.
6. Microsoft Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard (Best Keyboard for Travel)
Are you a writer on the go? Or perhaps a travelling blogger? You need a keyboard that works great and travels better. That’s why this foldable keyboard is just so awesome! The keyboard can last up to three months on just a single charge–or less if you use it often. Now, the thing is… This keyboard works awesome with mobile devices. And that’s about it. So no hooking your laptop or desktop up to this one. But for those on the go, this can be an invaluable tool.
7. Corsair K95 (Most Balanced of the Bunch)
Sale
Corsair K95 RGB Platinum Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - 6x Programmable Macro Keys - USB Passthrough & Media Controls - Fastest Cherry MX Speed - RGB LED Backlit - Black Finish
- Aircraft grade anodized brushed aluminum frame: Built to withstand a lifetime of gaming....
- 8MB profile storage with hardware macro and lighting playback: Allow access up to three...
- Dynamic multicolor per key backlighting with light edge: Adjust each key's color and...
- 100 percentage Cherry MX Speed RGB mechanical key switches: Unleash blistering speed with...
- 6 programmable G keys for in game macros: Assign single keystrokes or complex multi key...
This keyboard is just a great all around choice. Not too fancy, but definitely high quality. It comes fully equipped with Cherry MX Red key switches which allows for optimum performance and silent running. However, the best feature of this keyboard is (For me, anyway) is that it is spill and dust resistant! I am so terrified to keep my teacup near my computer as I type. This could be a great option for klutz such as myself and one of the best keyboards for writers.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Keyboard
There are several factors you should look into before buying a keyboard.
Wired vs Wireless
This is a huge quality of life decision you need to make before purchasing. Each has its own distinct advantages and disadvantages. Wired keyboards are awesome for their response time. Because the keyboard is directly hard wired to your device, there is much less response time lost than with wireless keyboards. Plus, if for some reason you don’t have a good wireless connection…you’re still good to go. Also, there’s no need for you to charge or buy batteries.
As far as wireless goes, the freedom of being away from your device can be liberating. Anybody else use a smart TV or monitor to cruise Netflix? I know I do. And being able to change between binge worthy shows from the comfort of my own couch… Priceless. Ultimately, the choice is up to you and what purpose you will use your keyboard for.
Standard vs. Ergonomic
Some keyboards are built to be more ergonomic, or in other words, better on my lightning fast typers. For those who do a lot of writing, these can often be a great option.
That said, there’s a HUGE learning curve to some of these keyboards, as they are not built like most of us are used to. Plus, a standard keyboard usually has a lot more options, and they can still be great for writers.
Mechanical vs Membrane
So… what in the heck does this even mean? Well, it refers to the way the keys are actually pressed. With membrane keyboards, a series of membranes and pressure pads transfer data for the keys to be pressed. These membranes are often very lightweight in nature leading to a lighter overall keyboard. They are also much quieter than typing on a mechanical keyboard and definitely cheaper to boot.
A mechanical keyboard on the other hand uses an actual mechanical device such as a switch to actuate the key press. Whenever you see a missing key cap on a keyboard… it’s probably a mechanical keyboard. The removable key caps makes the keyboard much easier to clean. Mechanical keyboards also tend to be sturdier than their membrane counterparts. All in all, mechanical types make the best keyboards for writers. However, they are a bit noisier, heavier, and more expensive than membrane types.
Durability
Before purchasing a keyboard, you should definitely look to make sure that the durability is rated for exactly what you need it for. For hardcore writers, you should look for the highest durability you can. This is often measured via keystrokes. But sometimes, this can be a little misleading. So when looking for durability, I would recommend that you assess your usage. If you are gonna need that extra ruggedness, be sure to look into picking up a mechanical keyboard.
In Summary
Choosing the best keyboards for writers may seem like a simple decision. But… don’t be so hasty. If you’re a simple writer with simple needs, choose what you like and what’s within your budget. But… if you’re a serious writer, be sure to take into consideration all other factors before jumping to a decision.
Cheers,
