Discover 15 Types of Keyboards That Can Change Your Work

Published: 13 Sep 2025

Keyboards play an important role in our daily lives. We use them for office work, gaming, typing, and even on laptops.

A keyboard is a device that lets us type letters, numbers, and symbols so the computer can understand us. But there are many different types of keyboards, and each is made for a different purpose. For example, a gaming keyboard is built for speed, while a keyboard for typing is designed for comfort.

In this article, we will look at the main types of keyboards and see which computer keyboard types are best for different needs.

Table of Content

What is a Keyboard?

A keyboard is an input device that we use to type letters, numbers, and symbols so the computer can understand our commands. In simple words, this is the basic keyboard meaning; it helps us talk to the computer.

The main keyboard functions are typing text, using shortcuts, giving commands, and even playing games.

Today, we use two kinds of keyboards: physical keyboards, which are the normal ones we press with our fingers, and virtual keyboards, which appear on touchscreens like phones and tablets.

Types of Keyboard

There are many types of keyboards, each made for a different need, like typing, gaming, or office work. From simple designs to advanced ones with special features, these different types of keyboards help users work more easily and comfortably.

Here are some different types of keyboards.

Wired Keyboard
Wireless Keyboard
Mechanical Keyboard
Membrane Keyboard
Ergonomic Keyboard
Gaming Keyboard
Virtual/On-Screen Keyboard
Flexible/Foldable Keyboard
Multimedia Keyboard
Laptop Keyboard
Projection Keyboard
Compact Keyboard
USB Keyboard
Thumb Keyboard
Backlit Keyboard
Magic Keyboard

Let’s look at them in detail.

Wired Keyboard

A wired keyboard is one of the most common computer keyboard types, connected directly to the system with a cable.

It offers reliable performance and is widely used for office work and personal computers.

Connects through USB or older PS/2 ports.
Provides steady and fast input response.
No need for charging or replacing batteries.
Usually cheaper compared to wireless options.
Works well for desktops and long typing tasks.

Wired keyboards are simple to set up and very dependable. Many people still prefer them for their speed and stability.

Wireless Keyboard

A wireless keyboard is a modern device that connects to a computer without cables.

It uses Bluetooth or a USB receiver, making it more flexible and easier to carry around.

Connects through Bluetooth or a wireless dongle.
Offers freedom of movement without wires.
Runs on batteries or rechargeable power.
Great choice for laptops, tablets, and smart TVs.
Provides a cleaner and more portable setup.

Wireless keyboards are stylish and convenient. They are perfect for people who like comfort and mobility.

Mechanical Keyboard

A mechanical keyboard uses special switches under each key, which makes typing feel more accurate and satisfying.

These keyboards are popular among gamers, coders, and heavy typists.

Uses mechanical switches for each key press.
Provides a loud, clicky, and tactile feedback.
Strong and long-lasting compared to other types.
Keys can be customized or replaced easily.
Favored by gamers and professionals for speed.

Mechanical keyboards are durable and fun to use. They give a premium typing experience that many people enjoy.

Membrane Keyboard

A membrane keyboard uses thin pressure pads instead of switches, which makes it lightweight and quiet.

It is one of the most common keyboards found in homes, schools, and offices.

Works with a soft rubber or silicone membrane layer.
Quieter and lighter than mechanical keyboards.
Usually cheaper and easy to replace.
Compact design, often used in laptops.
Not as durable or responsive as mechanical types.

Membrane keyboards are simple and budget-friendly. They are best for everyday typing and casual use.

Ergonomic Keyboard

An ergonomic keyboard is specially designed to give comfort while typing and reduce strain on the hands and wrists.

It is helpful for people who type for long hours.

Shaped to support natural hand and wrist position.
Reduces fatigue and risk of typing-related injuries.
Often comes in split or curved designs.
Improves comfort during long work sessions.
Used mainly in offices and by professional typists.

Ergonomic keyboards focus on health and comfort. They make typing easier and safer for regular users.

Gaming Keyboard

A gaming keyboard is built for speed, accuracy, and style, making it the top choice for gamers.

It often includes extra features that improve gameplay.

Designed with fast response and anti-ghosting keys.
Comes with RGB backlighting for a stylish look.
Durable switches that handle heavy use.
Includes extra keys for shortcuts and macros.
Offers better control for competitive gaming.

Gaming keyboards are powerful and stylish. They give gamers the edge they need for smooth and fast performance.

Virtual/On-Screen Keyboard

A virtual keyboard appears on a computer, tablet, or phone screen and lets you type by tapping the keys.

It is mostly used on touchscreens or when a physical keyboard is not available.

Built into smartphones, tablets, and modern PCs.
Works by tapping or clicking on the screen.
Supports multiple languages and layouts.
Helpful for people with accessibility needs.
No wires or hardware required.

Virtual keyboards are easy to use and always available. They make typing possible even without a physical device.

Flexible/Foldable Keyboard

A flexible or foldable keyboard is made from soft silicone or a similar material, allowing it to bend or roll up.

It is designed for people who need a portable typing option.

Lightweight and easy to carry anywhere.
It can be rolled, folded, or stored in small spaces.
Water-resistant and easy to clean.
Works well with laptops, tablets, and phones.
Not as strong or durable as standard keyboards.

Flexible keyboards are portable and handy. They are perfect for travel and quick use on the go.

Multimedia Keyboard

A multimedia keyboard comes with extra keys and shortcuts for controlling music, videos, and apps.

It is designed for people who enjoy entertainment and want quick access to media functions.

Includes special keys for play, pause, and volume.
Makes it easy to manage music and video playback.
Often has shortcut buttons for apps and the internet.
Saves time by reducing the need for mouse clicks.
Commonly used at home and in offices.

Multimedia keyboards are user-friendly and practical. They make media control faster and more enjoyable.

Laptop Keyboard

A laptop keyboard, also called a chiclet keyboard, has flat, square-shaped keys with spaces between them.

It is the most common type found in modern laptops and ultrabooks.

Slim design, perfect for thin and lightweight devices.
Quiet typing with soft key presses.
Uses less space compared to standard keyboards.
Easier to clean because of spaced-out keys.
Not as durable as mechanical keyboards.

Laptop keyboards are compact and stylish. They are designed for portability and everyday typing needs.

Projection Keyboard

A projection keyboard, also known as a laser keyboard, uses light to project a virtual set of keys on a flat surface.

You can type by tapping the projected keys, even without physical buttons.

Projects keys using laser or LED light.
Connects to devices through Bluetooth or USB.
Works with smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
Less accurate than traditional keyboards.

Projection keyboards are futuristic and portable. They are best for quick typing on the go, though not ideal for heavy use.

Compact Keyboard

A compact keyboard is a smaller version of the standard keyboard, made to save space.

It often removes the number pad or function keys, but still provides the main typing features.

Lightweight and easy to carry.
Saves desk space with fewer keys.
Common in laptops and portable devices.
Ideal for travel and small workspaces.
May feel less comfortable for long typing sessions.

Compact keyboards are simple and space-saving. They are great for people who need portability and a clean setup.

USB Keyboard

A USB keyboard connects to a computer using a USB port, making it one of the most common and easy-to-use keyboards.

It is plug-and-play, which means it works instantly without extra setup.

Connects directly through a USB cable.
Provides fast and stable performance.
Works with desktops, laptops, and even smart TVs.
No need for batteries or charging.
Affordable and widely available in many designs.

USB keyboards are reliable and user-friendly. They are the standard choice for most computer users.

Thumb Keyboard

A thumb keyboard is a small keyboard designed to be used mainly with the thumbs.

It is commonly found on mobile devices, PDAs, and some handheld gaming consoles.

Compact design made for handheld devices.
Used by pressing keys with both thumbs.
Popular in smartphones before touchscreens.
Useful for quick texting and short typing tasks.
Not suitable for long typing or heavy work.

Thumb keyboards are handy for portable devices. They make quick typing easy when you’re on the move.

Backlit Keyboard

A backlit keyboard has keys that glow with light, making it easier to type in dark or low-light places.

It is popular in gaming laptops and premium devices.

Keys light up with LED or RGB colors.
Useful for typing at night or in dim rooms.
Stylish look with customizable lighting effects.
Common in gaming and high-end laptops.
May use more battery in portable devices.

Backlit keyboards are both practical and attractive. They improve visibility and add a modern touch to computers.

Magic Keyboard

The Magic Keyboard is Apple’s special keyboard designed for Mac computers and iPads.

It is slim, wireless, and known for its smooth typing experience.

Connects wirelessly through Bluetooth.
Rechargeable battery with long life.
Slim, lightweight, and easy to carry.
Works perfectly with Mac, iPad, and iPhone.
Provides quiet and comfortable key presses.

Magic Keyboards are stylish and reliable. They offer a premium typing experience for Apple users.

Future of Keyboards

The future of keyboards is changing quickly as new technology grows. Traditional typing is slowly mixing with advanced features that make typing faster and smarter.

Virtual Reality Keyboards:
In VR environments, virtual keyboards will allow people to type in 3D spaces without a physical device.
Voice-to-Text:
Speech recognition may replace normal typing, letting people talk instead of pressing keys.
AI-Powered Smart Keyboards:
The rise of AI keyboards will bring predictive text, auto-correction, and personalized suggestions that learn from users.

Keyboards are moving beyond just typing; they are becoming smarter, faster, and more connected to our digital world.

Conclusion

We have explored many types of keyboards, from wired and wireless to gaming, ergonomic, and even futuristic projection keyboards. Each design has its own purpose and benefits.

The best choice depends on your needs, whether you want a computer keyboard type for gaming, office work, travel, or everyday typing.

Have a favorite keyboard type? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know which one you use most!

FAQs

Got more questions about keyboards? Check out the FAQs below.

How many types of keyboards are there?

There are many types of keyboards, including wired, wireless, mechanical, membrane, ergonomic, gaming, and more. The exact number depends on how we classify them, but all are designed to meet different needs.

What type of keyboard is suitable for working on a computer?

The best keyboard for working on a computer is one that is comfortable and reliable, such as an ergonomic or standard wired keyboard. These computer keyboard types make long typing sessions easier and reduce strain.

What type of keyboard is best for gaming?

The best keyboard for gaming is a mechanical or gaming keyboard, as they offer fast response, durable switches, and features like RGB lights and anti-ghosting keys. These make gameplay smoother and more enjoyable.

Which type of keyboard is best for typing?

For typing, an ergonomic or mechanical keyboard is often the best choice. They provide comfort, accuracy, and support for long hours of work, making typing easier and less tiring.

How many types of keyboard keys are there?

There are mainly five types of keyboard keys: typing keys (letters and numbers), function keys (F1–F12), control keys (like Ctrl, Alt, Esc), navigation keys (arrows, Home, End), and numeric keypad keys.

Why keyboard layout qwerty?

The QWERTY keyboard layout was designed in the 1870s for typewriters to prevent keys from jamming by spacing out common letter pairs. It became popular and is still the standard layout used on most keyboards today.

What is the most commonly used keyboard layout?

The most commonly used keyboard layout is the QWERTY layout, which is standard on most computers and devices. It is popular worldwide because it is easy to learn and widely supported.