PC keyboard reviews: a complete guide to choosing the right one

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Choosing a PC keyboard is no longer about going to the store, randomly trying out two models, and buying the cheapest one. Today, mechanical, membrane, optical, magnetic, ergonomic, compact, wireless, and even fully customizable keyboards coexist, each designed for a very specific type of user.

Whether you type for hours , play competitive games, work in a shared office, or are looking for something simple for a senior citizen, you'll want to understand how a keyboard works internally, what types are available, and the advantages of each . This guide brings together all that information in an organized way, with examples of formats, switch technologies, ergonomics, sizes, brands, and representative models to help you make the right choice for your next purchase.

What does a keyboard actually do and how does it work inside?

A PC keyboard is the most frequently used input device for a computer . Each time you press a key, a signal is generated that a small internal microprocessor (the encoder) translates into a "scan code" which it sends to the operating system. This code is then converted into the letter you see on the screen, a shortcut, a multimedia command, or the illumination of the lock LEDs.

To detect each key, the keyboard uses a matrix of rows and columns printed on circuit boards . When you press a key, you close the circuit at a specific point in that grid. The encoder identifies which intersection has been activated and sends the corresponding code to the PC. Depending on the type of switch (mechanical, membrane, optical, Hall Effect, etc.), the way this circuit is closed, the force required, and the travel distance vary considerably.

The familiar Caps Lock, Num Lock, and Scroll Lock lights aren't controlled by the keyboard itself, but by the computer. You press the key, the keyboard sends the code, and the system decides whether to turn the corresponding indicator on or off based on its internal state.

Main PC keyboard technologies

Before getting into specific sizes or models, it's important to understand the different types of keyboards based on their technology . This affects factors like noise level, durability, price, typing accuracy, and long-term comfort.

On one hand, we have membrane and rubber dome keyboards, the typical cheap and quiet ones ; on the other, the classic mechanical keyboards, very precise and customizable, as well as optical and magnetic variants designed for advanced gaming. And of course, there are the low-profile, laptop-style (chiclet) keyboards, common in office environments and for users who prioritize portability.

Membrane and rubber dome keyboards

Membrane keyboards are based on three overlapping flexible layers : an upper layer with conductive traces, a middle layer with holes, and a lower layer that is also conductive. Each key rests on a rubber dome which, when pressed, passes through the middle hole and connects the two conductive layers, closing the circuit for that key.

In the most common design, the dome-switch keyboard , each key rests on a rubber or silicone dome that collapses when pressed, bringing a point of graphite or conductive material to the underlying membrane. This is the solution you see in countless budget keyboards, office combos, and quiet models for home use.

Its main advantages are a very low price, discreet operation, and light weight , plus the availability of splash-resistant models. On the other hand, the touch response is less precise, the domes have a shorter lifespan, they are not usually easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning , and it's more likely that some presses won't fully reach the activation point.

Mechanical keyboards: the current benchmark

On a mechanical keyboard, each key has its own individual switch, consisting of a housing, spring, and stem . This switch determines the force required to press it, the travel distance, whether there is a tactile bump, whether there is a loud click, or whether the keystroke is completely linear and silent.

Compared to membrane keyboards, mechanical keyboards stand out for their precision, responsiveness, and durability , easily exceeding 50 million keystrokes per key. They are also much easier to clean thoroughly and customize , as many models allow you to replace both the keycaps and the switches themselves (if the PCB is hot-swappable).

The downside is that they tend to be more expensive, bulkier, and noisier . However, silent switches, internal damping foams, and low-profile designs have emerged that significantly reduce the sound, making them suitable for use in offices or shared environments if the switches are chosen carefully.

Optical and Hall Effect (magnetic) switches

In recent years, keyboards with optical or opto-mechanical switches have proliferated . Activation here doesn't depend on a metallic contact, but rather on the interruption of an infrared light beam within the switch itself. Since there are no parts that physically "bounce," the bounce time is almost eliminated, and extremely fast keystrokes can be registered without loss.

Hall Effect or magnetic switches use a sensor and a magnet to measure the exact position of the key's actuation point. This allows you to configure, via software, the point at which the key is considered pressed. You can set it very close to the beginning of the key travel for maximum speed or delay it to minimize accidental key presses, a feature highly valued in competitive gaming and in models with functions like Rapid Trigger or Snap Tap.

Chiclet or low-profile laptop-type keyboards

When we talk about chiclet keyboards, we're referring to the flat, widely spaced keys typical of laptops , mounted on scissor or butterfly mechanisms that, in turn, act on a membrane. The key travel is short, the profile very low, and the noise level quite low.

This type of keyboard is ideal if you prioritize portability, quiet operation, and a minimalist look , although if you tend to pound the keys to the floor, you may experience finger fatigue over time. Some users, especially those who type a lot, end up preferring a good low-profile mechanical keyboard to combine speed and comfort.

Types of mechanical switches and typing feel

Within the world of mechanical switches, there are literally dozens of types , but they can all be classified by their typing feel and the force/travel they require. Understanding this aspect is key to avoiding regret after your purchase.

The classic classification distinguishes between linear, tactile and clicky switches, with internal variations depending on the manufacturer ( Cherry, Gateron, Kailh, Razer, Logitech, Keychron, Akko …) and according to the intended use (intense typing, gaming, mixed use or quiet environments).

Linear, tactile, and clicky

Linear switches offer a smooth travel, with no intermediate bump or audible click. They actuate with the same resistance from beginning to end, making them a favorite for competitive gaming where speed is more important than tactile feedback.

Tactile switches include a small bump in their travel that indicates the activation point. They don't always make extra noise, but you can feel that "tap" with your finger that lets you know the key has been registered. They are very popular for those who want a balance between typing and gaming.

Clicky keyboards add a clear and distinct clicking sound to the bump. They're reminiscent of old typewriters and are addictive for many writers, though they can be a nightmare for your office colleagues if they're not warned.

Examples of Cherry MX and derivatives

Cherry is the best-known historical manufacturer, and its Cherry MX family has become a benchmark. Many others (Outemu, Gateron, Kailh…) use those strength and travel values ​​as a starting point to offer compatible alternatives.

Cherry MX Blue switches are clicky, with a tactile bump and audible click; they require around 50 cN to actuate and about 60 cN at the point of contact. They are ideal for those who enjoy a constant click while typing, but not so much for those who prefer silence or very fast double-tapping.

Cherry MX Brown switches are clickless tactile, with an actuation force of around 45 cN. They are considered an "all-rounder" standard because they are suitable for both comfortable typing and gaming without disturbing others.

Cherry MX Red switches are lightweight linear switches (also around 45 cN), designed for gaming due to their smoothness and low resistance . In Speed ​​or Silver versions, they advance the actuation point by about 1,2 mm, a feature appreciated by many esports players.

There are also harder variants like the Cherry MX Black (around 60 cN), recommended if you tend to press your fingers hard and want to avoid accidental keystrokes, or the Cherry MX Silent , with internal rubber pieces that significantly reduce the impact and return noise of the key.

Keycap profile and material

The key profile (OEM, Cherry, SA, DSA…) determines the height, curvature, and tilt of each row . OEM and Cherry profiles are the most balanced for general use; SA is taller and has a retro look; DSA is flat and uniform. Ultimately, it's about custom: there isn't one that's universally best.

In terms of materials, almost all keycaps are made of ABS or PBT . ABS is cheaper and tends to become shiny with use, while PBT withstands wear and tear and fingerprints better, maintaining its matte texture for longer.

On mid-range and high-end keyboards, it's easy to find PBT Double-Shot keys , where the legends are molded with two different plastics so they never wear off. There are also laser-etched or sublimated keycaps, which are much more durable than the simple screen-printed or sticker-based ones found on very cheap keyboards.

Distributions, sizes and shape factors

Besides the internal technology, the comfort of a keyboard depends heavily on its layout and size . A full-size office keyboard is not the same as one designed for esports or an ergonomic model split into two sections.

Choosing the right format affects desk space, shoulder position when using a mouse and keyboard, and how easy it will be to type or use shortcuts without looking . That's why it's a good idea to review the ISO/ANSI standards and the most common percentages (100%, TKL, 75%, 65%, 60%, 96/98%).

ISO, ANSI and layouts by language

When we talk about layout , we're referring to both the language and the physical key standard. In Spain, the usual layout is ISO-ES: a large, inverted L-shaped Enter key, an extra key next to the Z key, and, of course, a dedicated Ñ key and accents in familiar positions.

In the United States, ANSI-US is used, with a smaller, rectangular Enter key and some keys offset. Many gaming or custom keyboards are only sold this way; you can configure them in Spanish via software, but the printed legends will no longer match what you type, which can be annoying if you frequently check the keys.

Sizes: full size, TKL, 75%, 65%, 60%, 96/98%

Percentage-based nomenclature indicates the number of keys relative to a full keyboard or its approximate width. The most common formats are:

• Full size (100%)Classic keyboard with numeric keypad, function row, arrow keys and navigation keys (Insert, Delete, Page Up, etc.). It usually has around 104-105 keys.
• TKL (Tenkeyless, ~80-85%)The numeric keypad is removed, but everything else remains. It's very popular in gaming because brings the mouse closer to the body and leaves more room to move it.
• 75%Similar to a TKL keyboard but with more compact keys, often inspired by laptop layouts. It retains arrow keys and function keys, but reduces gaps and intermediate columns.
• 65%: It retains arrow keys and a few extra keys (Del, PgUp, PgDn), but sacrifices the physical F1-F12 row, accessing it with the Fn key.
• 60%: ultra-compact format that only includes the alphanumeric block. Arrow keys, navigation, and functions are used using Fn combinationsIdeal if you want maximum free space for the mouse.
• 96 / 98%These are very compact keyboards that retain the numeric keypad but narrow the central area to reduce the overall width. They are a good middle ground if you need many keys without sacrificing a clutter-free desk.

Nor should we forget split keyboards , where each hand has its own separate block to improve ergonomics, or the special one-handed models designed for macros or gaming.

Connectivity, lighting and extras that make a difference

Beyond the keys, a good PC keyboard review should look at how they connect, the quality of their lighting, and what extra features they offer : macros, volume wheels, customization software, liquid resistance, etc.

Choosing between wired or wireless, RGB or white backlighting, a simple keyboard or one with an OLED display and dedicated dials can greatly change your daily experience, especially if you work and play with the same equipment.

Wired vs. Wireless

Wired keyboards, usually USB, offer minimal latency, zero battery dependency, and are generally a bit cheaper . They're a safe bet for gaming setups where maximum reliability is key, or for fixed workstations where cables aren't a nuisance.

Wireless models can use Bluetooth, 2,4 GHz USB receivers, or both . In exchange for charging the battery or changing batteries periodically, you gain a cleaner look, portability, and the ability to connect them to various devices (PC, laptop, tablet, Smart TV, etc.) with the touch of a button.

Lighting and visual ergonomics

Backlighting isn't just for looks. In dimly lit environments, it helps you identify keys without straining your eyes , and on advanced keyboards, it allows you to assign colors to specific areas (WASD, editing keys, macros, etc.) or synchronize RGB effects with games and other peripherals.

However, it's worth remembering that with wireless models, backlighting is one of the biggest battery drainers . That's why many keyboards incorporate proximity or ambient light sensors that adjust the brightness depending on the situation or turn off the keys when they don't detect hands nearby.

Macros, dials, hot-swap and other advanced features

In the mid-to-high-end range, it's becoming increasingly common to find keyboards with programmable macro keys , volume wheels, dedicated multimedia buttons, and multifunction dials. These controls allow you, for example, to change the brightness, skip tracks, or control an editing application without taking your hand off the keyboard.

Another key feature of the enthusiast range is the ability to change switches without soldering (hot-swappable) . With a simple extractor, you can remove a faulty switch or try different feelers on the same board, without having to use soldering tools.

Many models incorporate internal memory to save complete lighting profiles, macros, and key configurations , so you can take your keyboard to another PC and maintain your environment without installing anything else.

Ghosting, N-Key Rollover and simultaneous key registration

If you've ever used a very cheap keyboard, you've probably experienced the common problem of pressing multiple keys simultaneously and the keyboard not registering some of them or "making up" another key . This is called ghosting, and manufacturers combat it with varying levels of rollover.

A keyboard with N-Key Rollover (NKRO) can register all the keys you press simultaneously without errors. Many gaming models are advertised as having 6KRO, 10KRO, or full NKRO. If you frequently hold down multiple letters, spaces, and modifiers at the same time (very common in shooters, fighting games, or music games), you should check this feature.

Ergonomics, health, and keyboards for seniors

Beyond the specifications, we mustn't forget the human element: a poorly chosen keyboard can lead to wrist pain, strained shoulders, or fatigued fingers if you spend many hours using it. And for older people, readability and ease of use are almost as important as the internal technology.

The good news is that today there are ergonomic split keyboards, curved models, options with generous wrist rests, and specific designs with large keys and high-contrast letters designed for those with vision or dexterity problems.

Ergonomic keyboards and hand posture

Ergonomic keyboards have been developed to reduce repetitive strain injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome. They typically divide the alphanumeric area into two blocks that are slightly rotated and raised towards the center, allowing the hands to rest in a more natural position.

Many include padded wrist rests, multiple tilt positions, and wavy or "split" designs . Combined with a suitable chair and a good desk height, they help keep your back straight, your elbows relaxed, and your wrists in a neutral position—something you'll appreciate in the long run if you type or program for hours.

Options designed for older people

When the keyboard is going to be used by an elderly person, it is advisable to prioritize very specific characteristics: large and well-separated keys, clear and high-contrast typography (for example, large white letters on a black background) and quiet operation that is not annoying.

It's also a good idea to choose simple models, without dozens of extra keys that could cause confusion, and to consider soft backlighting if you often use your computer in dimly lit rooms. In those cases, a quiet membrane keyboard or a low-profile chiclet is more advisable than a clicky mechanical keyboard full of RGB lights.

Multilingual keyboards and alternative layouts (QWERTY, Dvorak…)

Modern operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, etc.) allow you to change the keyboard layout via software without modifying the physical keyboard. This means you can use an English ANSI keyboard with a Spanish layout, or an alternative layout like Dvorak or Colemak if you feel like experimenting.

For non-Latin languages ​​(Arabic, Cyrillic, Thai, Japanese, etc.), physical keyboards often come with specific keycaps and require specific drivers or layouts for each key to print the correct symbol. This is important to keep in mind if you buy an imported keyboard.

The ubiquitous QWERTY layout was created in the late 19th century to prevent mechanical typewriters from jamming, by separating letters that were often used consecutively. Today, that limitation no longer exists, but the layout has survived out of habit and because switching to another requires relearning.

The Dvorak keyboard , patented in 1936, rearranges the letters so that most keystrokes occur on the home row, distributing them more evenly between both hands. Its proponents claim it allows for faster and less strenuous typing, but its adoption remains limited because the entire keyboard ecosystem, including the physical key labels, is designed with QWERTY in mind.

Custom keyboards and extreme customization

Within the enthusiast community, so-called custom or personalized keyboards have gained considerable popularity . Instead of buying a factory-assembled model, the user chooses each component: case, motherboard, PCB, switches, stabilizers, keycaps, cable, and even the type of internal mounting.

The usual approach is to start with a barebone kit that already includes a chassis, PCB, and motherboard, and then add your own switches and keycaps. The main goal is to achieve a very specific feel and sound: from extremely quiet keyboards designed for office use to "thocky" configurations with a deep, punchy sound that appeals to many enthusiasts.

Almost all of these keyboards use QMK or VIA firmware , which allows you to completely reprogram key assignments, create layers of functions, and adjust macros and lighting without relying on proprietary manufacturer software.

Membrane keyboards versus mechanical keyboards: which is more worthwhile

With all this information on the table, the eternal question remains whether it's worth making the leap to a mechanical keyboard or if a good membrane model is sufficient for your intended use.

If you prioritize a low price and quiet operation, and don't need ultra-precise touch , a decent membrane or rubber dome keyboard can be perfectly adequate, especially for office work, web browsing, and light use. There are options with backlighting, spill resistance, and multimedia keys that more than meet the needs of the average user.

If, on the other hand, you spend many hours typing, program daily, or play games intensively, you'll easily notice the difference when using a well-chosen mechanical keyboard . The feel, speed, and consistency of the keystrokes, along with the ability to customize and replace parts, usually justify the higher price for these types of users.

What to consider when buying a PC keyboard

To wrap up this PC keyboard review, let's summarize the key criteria you should consider before making a purchase. It's not about memorizing an endless list, but rather understanding a few basic points.

• Primary useIt's not the same to write eight hours a day, play competitive games, edit video, or use the PC sporadically.
• FormatDo you need a numeric keypad or can you live without one? Will a full-size laptop fit on your desk or is a TKL/75% laptop better?
• Switch type: linear (fast and smooth) for gaming, tactile if you want a well-defined activation point, clicky if you love the sound and don't bother anyone.
• Noise: key if you share a room, work in an office, or record audio near the keyboard.
• Connectivity: wired for total reliability, wireless if you value clean space and multipoint connection.
• ErgonomicsWrist rest, tilt, key profile and layout greatly influence comfort at several hours of viewing.
• Extras: macros, RGB, volume wheels, OLED display, hot-swap, liquid resistance or configuration software.
• BudgetYou can find very decent keyboards for little money, but premium models, especially custom ones, quickly increase in price.

Taking the time to consider these aspects, even trying out different switches in-store if you have the chance, often makes the difference between ending up with a keyboard that frustrates you and one that becomes your trusted tool for years . With a good understanding of technologies, layouts, sizes, and customization options, you have everything you need to make the right choice and enjoy every keystroke.