Are you looking for a wireless keyboard for your computer, possibly cheap and of good quality? If you want, I can recommend a few and give you a hand to choose the one that best suits your needs. With prices starting from just under 20 euros you can take home keyboards of all kinds: from traditional ones to those with integrated trackpad, through gaming models.
But wireless keyboards can’t just be connected to computers, and there are countless products on the market specifically designed for tablets and other portable devices. With the spread of Smart TVs, there is also a need for advanced pointing devices with televisions as well. And, of course, there are also keyboards specifically for this need.
But let’s go in order and see together some features that you need to consider before buying a wireless keyboard. Choosing the right wireless keyboard for you and the way you use your computer, tablet, smartphone or Smart TV is super easy, but before you embark on your purchase I suggest you pay attention to the things I explain on this page.
How to choose a wireless keyboard
In order to choose the right wireless keyboard for your very personal needs, you need to pay attention to a few factors. Don’t be afraid, it’s very simple, but without knowing the basic definitions that belong to this category of product you’re not going anywhere and you risk buying a product that doesn’t meet your expectations or, worse, is not compatible with the system you want to combine it with.
I bet you have often heard about layouts and the fact that keyboards (obviously also those with cable) can have different layouts. The layout, if you don’t know it yet, is the arrangement of keys on the keyboard: in Italy we use the scheme called QWERTY (in which the first letters of the keyboard, starting from the upper left corner, are Q-W-E-R-T-Y).
However, there are also layouts such as the German QWERTZ and the French AZERTY. Before buying a keyboard, make sure that it has the layout you want. Typing on a keyboard quickly requires a good knowledge of the keyboard layout, and is obviously a matter of habit. If you don’t want to relearn typing on your computer, choose a model with a layout you know.
Dimensions
Keyboards are not all the same size. There are standard (or full size) keyboards that have the same dimensions we find on most notebook or desktop PC keyboards, and then there are mini keyboards (about 2/3 the size of the standard ones) intended mainly for use with portable devices.
Choosing the size of your next keyboard is completely personal and related to the device you intend to use it with. Specifically, tablets may have specific keyboard models that can fit into the device itself, while models for smartphones and Smart TVs are usually even smaller in size because they are designed to be held during use, not rested on.
Gaming and mechanical keyboards
Gaming keyboards are keyboards aimed at gamers, so with features that serve to meet their specific needs. They are often distinguished by a design anything but sober and for the presence of RGB backlighting (so with a large number of colors), but it is not just a matter of aesthetics. Gaming keyboards must in fact enjoy impeccable reliability with multiple key presses, as well as great speed, of course.
The aspects to consider are: key rollover, which represents the number of keys you can press at the same time expecting a response from the keyboard; anti-ghosting, a technology to avoid the pressing of a “ghost” key when pressing two or more different keys; polling rate, which is the time interval needed between the pressing of a key and the next one for it to be recognized.
The keyboards that usually excel in these features are the mechanical keyboards, which have been a favorite of the most demanding gamers for some time now. The electronics of these keyboards can manage the keys (called switches) individually (unlike membrane keyboards) and are faster and more reliable in pressing. But there are also disadvantages: the most extreme switches are also particularly noisy and unsuitable for writing long texts in quiet environments.
Connectivity
The question is Bluetooth or Wi-Fi? There really isn’t much choice in the connectivity solution of wireless keyboards, but this decision is crucial. Wireless keyboards can take advantage of these two different technologies to communicate with your computer: either Bluetooth or 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, both with a range of about 10 meters.
Bluetooth-based keyboards don’t require external receivers to work (as long as your computer has built-in Bluetooth) and are compatible with a wide range of devices, such as smartphones and tablets.
Keyboards based on 2.4GHz wireless technology use proprietary USB receivers that can limit their compatibility with devices such as smartphones, tablets and Smart TVs. They are also more prone to interference with other devices that use the 2.4GHz band.
I generally recommend leaning towards Bluetooth technology, but if you plan to use your next keyboard only with your PC and don’t have a problem with “hogging” a USB port just for the receiver, also consider buying 2.4GHz Wi-Fi keyboards.
Trackpad and programmable keys
The keyboard contains more than just keys for typing. Although there is a standard that establishes the layout of the main keys and mandates the presence of other essential keys, some keyboards also have different input systems built into the same chassis. The one you most commonly find is the trackpad.
In integrated trackpad (like the one found on notebooks), it takes the place of the mouse especially with ultra-portable systems or Smart TVs. It is a less comfortable pointing device than the mouse, but can be used in many different circumstances while maintaining the same functionality. You can also find buttons for multimedia control (such as Play, Pause, and others), music and video.
Larger keyboards also have a numeric keypad or even some programmable keys, which you can assign various functions to (they are typically chosen by gamers for the ability to set up “Macros” to perform a number of different actions with a single interaction). Choose the one that includes the keys and functions you need.
Other Features
There are still other factors to be aware of before you dive into choosing your new wireless keyboard: backlighting is one of them: if you work at night or otherwise often find yourself using your system in the dark, buy a keyboard with backlighting for the keys.
The power supply is also important, which, speaking of wireless keyboards, is always via battery. You can find the classic AA/AAA batteries or they can have built-in rechargeable batteries, like those of cell phones, which are charged via USB cable.
According to my personal opinion, keyboards with integrated battery are more comfortable (because you do not run the risk of not being able to use them for lack of AA/AAA batteries) but these are assessments to be made according to your needs.
Finally, always consider ergonomics, especially if you intend to type for quite some time with your new keyboard. There are models that make ergonomics their strong point. They are designed to avoid carpal tunnel syndrome and other joint problems.
They are characterized by a very unusual shape (wavy) and a different key layout from that of standard keyboards. If you suffer from joint problems or work long hours at the computer, consider buying one.
Which wireless keyboard to buy
By now you should have a pretty good idea of how to choose your next wireless keyboard. As you can see below there really are some for all tastes and, most importantly, for all budgets.
Best cheap wireless keyboard (less than 30 €)
Rii Mini i8 Wireless
The Rii Mini i8 Wireless is a small keyboard shaped like a video game controller complete with keys for multimedia control and central touchpad that can simulate the presence of a mouse, the quick start of applications. It works via RF at 2.4GHz (so it requires the use of a USB receiver) and is powered by 2 AAA batteries. Ideal for use with Smart TVs, mini PCs and portable devices.
Rii Mini X1
The Mini X1 is a mini-keyboard with a 90° swivel touchpad that can be used both horizontally and vertically. It works through a USB receiver, using 2.4GHz radio frequency, and is powered by a lithium-ion battery rechargeable via USB cable. It can be used with PCs, mini PCs, Smart TVs and some portable devices.
Rii Mini X1 Wireless (Italian Layout) – Mini Keyboard with Mouse touch…
Logitech Wireless Combo MK220
If you want an economical mouse+keyboard kit, but don’t want to lose the reliability of a well-known brand, I recommend the Logitech Wireless Combo MK220 with separate USB receiver and power supply through 2 AAA batteries for the keyboard and 2 AA for the mouse. Compatible with a variety of operating systems, this combo allows you to have a wireless range of 10 meters through the integrated 2.4 GHz wireless technology.
Logitech MK270 Kit
Among the best-selling keyboards is the Logitech MK270, which comes in kit form along with a wireless mouse. This is a standard keyboard, cheap but reliable, in full size format with numeric keypad on the right. It boasts a range of 10 meters and battery life of 24 and 12 months respectively for keyboard and mouse. In order to save energy, it is automatically set to stand-by mode. In addition to the standard keys (QWERTY) it also integrates eight hotkeys.
Logitech K400 Plus
The Logitech K400 Plus is the upgraded version of the Logitech K400, one of the best-selling wireless keyboards on Amazon. It features a built-in touchpad and 13 media keys. It is powered by two AA batteries with an estimated maximum battery life of 18 months and has a range of up to 10 meters. It can be connected to PCs, smartphones and tablets that support the installation of USB receivers (2.4GHz).
Best mid-range wireless keyboard (between €30 and €100)
Microsoft Wireless Desktop 850
If you need a simple, practical and reliable wireless keyboard, you can also consider the Microsoft Wireless Desktop 850 that comes complete with mouse, has a numeric keypad, keys for multimedia control and comes with a classic but attractive design (in black). By connecting a very small receiver to the computer’s USB port (2.4GHz) you can get a range of more than 9 meters. To operate, the mouse requires AA batteries and the keyboard requires AAA batteries.
Trust Tecla 2 with Wireless Mouse
Trust Tecla 2 is a combo kit consisting of a good quality wireless keyboard and mouse with all the essentials, plus 10 buttons to control multimedia playback, such as video and music. The mouse uses an optical type sensor and has five buttons, while to interface with the PC you have to use the USB receiver provided, which has small dimensions and a range of 8 meters. In the mouse, moreover, you can select the sensitivity on the fly through the integrated DPI button. As for the keyboard, however, among the special features we have the wrist rest with non-slip finish.
Trust 23415 Tecla-2 wireless keyboard QWERTZ wireless mouse black
Microsoft Bluetooth Designer
The Microsoft Designer Bluetooth keyboard is a standard size device with an included numeric keypad and a modern and extremely slim design. It uses Bluetooth 4.0 technology for pairing with the computer and for minimal energy consumption, and also BluTrack technology for the ambidextrous mouse that comes with it. Both devices are offered with two AAA batteries included in the original packaging, which are necessary for their power supply (12-month lifespan for the keyboard, 6 months for the mouse).
Drevo Calibur
Another very interesting mechanical keyboard, both USB and Bluetooth, is the Drevo Calibur, a tenkeyless (no numeric keypad) with customizable RGB LED backlighting and a choice of brown or red switches. It uses Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity and can have a battery life of up to 20 hours in use wirelessly, incorporating up to 7 customizable lighting modes. It is compatible with both Windows and macOS systems, but can also be used with iOS and Android.
Logitech MK540
Another classic wireless keyboard and mouse combo is the one proposed by Logitech MK540 that works with AA batteries and provides a range of 10 meters with Unifying connection. The keyboard is characterized by a slightly rounded design in the lower part, includes the numeric keypad and 6 dedicated keys with multimedia functions. It works via 2.4GHz wireless and a small USB receiver to connect to your PC or other supported devices, and there’s no shortage of wrist rests that can definitely come in handy during longer writing sessions.
Logitech K800
If you need a quality backlit keyboard I recommend the Logitech K800 Wireless Illuminated, with particularly sober white LEDs for each key and a slim profile. The backlight is naturally adjustable (even automatically according to the light in the room), and turns on only if it detects the presence of the operator’s hands in front of the keys. It offers an autonomy of about 10 days on a single charge, but the batteries can be recharged through the micro USB cable offered in the package.
Logitech K800 2.4 GHz Wireless Backlit Keyboard for Windows, …
Best high-end wireless keyboard (over $100)
Apple Magic Keyboard
If you have a Mac, you can’t help but lean towards an Apple Magic Keyboard, which features a sleek aluminum design and is essential in every way: it has the bare minimum number of keys, it’s extremely compact, lightweight, and its built-in battery provides a battery life of over a month. Apple produces it both in tenkeyless version and with numeric keypad.
Microsoft Surface Keyboard
A keyboard with great build quality, thin but at the same time solid during all phases of writing. It works through the Bluetooth low-power protocol (4.0/4.1) and provides a range of 15 meters in the open air or up to 7 meters in a typical office environment. Microsoft promises a lifetime of 5 million presses for the QWERTY keys, plus AES cryptographic protection for worry-free typing. It makes use of 2 AAA batteries (included in the original box) for power, which last up to 12 months. The Microsoft Surface Keyboard measures 42 x 11 centimeters, with a thickness of almost 2 centimeters.
Microsoft WS2-00010 Surface Design Keyboard, Italian Layout QWERTY…
Corsair K63 Wireless
The Corsair K63 Wireless is a quality mechanical keyboard, among the few to boast the ability to be used in 2.4 GHz high-speed wireless mode, with latencies around the millisecond. Obviously it is also available the support of the cable connection, while with regard to the keys we have Cherry MX Red mechanical switches definitely appreciated for the performance in the game. There’s no shortage of backlighting (blue only) and AES 128-bit encryption, for the protection of what is typed with the keyboard.
Logitech G613
The Logitech G613 is another one of the few mechanical keyboards out there capable of interfacing to your PC even without wires. It uses a proprietary connection technology called Lightspeed in order to provide high performance and great energy efficiency, while the keys adopt Romer-G switches capable of lasting up to 70 million clicks. In addition to the essential keys we also have six G keys, programmable with macros and profile to give different commands. The input refresh rate is 1 millisecond, but there’s also the option to use it in Bluetooth mode for maximum compatibility. Be careful though! The version I propose below has the international layout, and not Italian.
Logitech Craft
The Logitech Craft keyboard is designed for creatives who need a keyboard that meets the professional needs of those who do precision work. It’s a designer wireless keyboard with a rotary control button that lets you access and edit specific contextual functions by rotating it. It works with Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and Premiere Pro, among other compatible software, as well as PowerPoint, Excel and Word, improving productivity while performing an assignment. The keys are backlit with LEDs that light up as soon as the system detects the approach of hands.
