Welcome to my list of each best keyboard for writers, depending on your situation. 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 (check out the best backlit keyboards!). Some are ergonomic. Each one is unique, and each one will perform differently under different circumstances. If you’re looking for something specific, I’m sure we can find something that’s right for you in this list.
So, let’s jump in and take a look into some of the best keyboards for writers!
On this list, I rank these writing keyboards based on the following features or types:
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, making it the best mechanical keyboard for writers.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
We’ve got a few items on this list that will technically work on a bunch of different devices. However, this is one that is clearly geared towards multi-device usage, and it’s also super cute to boot!
This wireless multi-device keyboard from Attoe will work with a table, a phone, or even your PC or Mac. It also comes with a sleek groove that lets you insert your tablet or phone to hold it up. If you do a lot of writing on your tablet, I would definitely recommend this beauty for you.
For some of you, all these fancy bells and whistles are too much. You just want something that works and nothing else. Or perhaps you’re a sucker for minimalist designs like some people I know (I’ll admit to not being one of them, my house is a mess).
This keyboard from Arteck is the best minimalist keyboard around. Plus it’s super cheap! This will work wirelessly using a nano USB receiver (sorry, no Bluetooth), and it’s super light weight. If I had to complain about anything it would be the keyboard doesn’t work for Mac, although many people are calling it the PC version of a standard Mac keyboard.
What? Not everyone has ever dreamed of having a modern keyboard that looks like a typewriter keyboard? Just me? Well okay then.
If you love the retro look, you’ll love this retro keyboard from 7KEYS, which really gives you the look and feel of a typewriter, but is also wireless, and will work seamlessly with a tablet or smartphone. It even has a groove to set them in!
There are several factors you should look into before buying a keyboard.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
If you’re looking for my suggestion of the best writing keyboard: the Roccat Vulcan.
Cheers,
Professional writers use the keyboards that everyone else uses! There are a lot of different options out there, from ergonomic, to quick typing keyboards, to plain stylish keyboards. There are every people who dictate their book and don’t use a keyboard at all!
The fastest keyboards for typing are keyboards with low impact, meaning you don’t have to push them down very far in order to type. This means that your fingers can move faster. I personally recommend dictation (see link above) if you’re looking to write faster, however.
If you’re looking to write faster, a mechanical keyboard will not be better for writing. However, they can provide a much better feeling and style if that’s what you prioritize above speed. Many keyboards are still made as mechanical keyboards because people like them.