Keyboards

No matter how basic or high-end your computer is, if you’ve got a poor keyboard your entire computing experience will suffer. 

So, it pays to invest in a high-quality keyboard.

When it comes to picking a new keyboard however, you may find that you’re overwhelmed with choice. There are many different types of keyboards with varying features. But, worry not - we’ve set out some key keyboard buying considerations below. 

Wired or wireless?

The first decision you’ll have to make if you want to choose a keyboard is whether you’d prefer a wired or wireless keyboard. 

Each type has its pros and cons and much of your choice is likely to come down to personal preference. 

Wired keyboards tend to be cheaper than wireless keyboards and of course, don’t run out of battery. Wireless keyboards on the other hand are more versatile and can be easily moved around (they’re great if you travel for work a lot). Plus, going wireless gets rid of those pesky cables!

If you want the best of both worlds then it is possible to buy wireless keyboards which include a charging wire. 

Key switches

What sort of switch person are you? If you’re not sure what we mean by that question, then keep reading. 

Silicon domes - keyboards with silicon dome switches tend to be the cheapest type of keyboard on the market. Whilst they are affordable, they tend to wear out quicker than other types of keyboard switch and can also require you to press each key quite hard in order to make ‘contact’. 

Scissor switches - keyboards with scissors switches attach the keys to the keyboard using two interlocking plastic pieces in an x-shape (hence the name scissor switch). Scissor switches will function using a softer touch and are usually relatively quiet. 

Mechanical switches - for many PC gamers, keyboards with mechanical switches are the be all and end all of keyboards. Mechanical switches activate a switch whenever a key is pressed. There are three main types of mechanical switch; linear, tactile and clicky. Whilst incredibly responsive, mechanical switches can be quite noisy.

Ergonomics

Are you going to be using your keyboard for long periods of time? If so, then you may want to select a keyboard with an ergonomic design. Keyboards with ergonomic designs are designed to stop you developing injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome or repetitive strain injury (RSI).

Style

Are you happy with a plain-looking keyboard? Or would you rather go all out and have a flashy RGB-equipped model? 

It’s possible to buy keyboards in a wide array of different colours, along with models that feature customisable RGB backlighting and even swappable keys if you really want to jazz things up!

Will you be gaming? 

If you’re going to be using your keyboard for gaming, then it may be wise to invest in a gaming-specific keyboard. 

Why? Because dedicated gaming keyboards tend to come with additional features that will improve your gaming experience. These include ergonomic designs, programmable keys and even the ability to set up macros.

Think about all of these different considerations and you’ll be only a click away from owning your perfect keyboard.

Explore our range of keyboards here at CCL and you’ll find models from leading brands including Ducky, CHERRY, Logitech, Corsair, ASUS, Cooler Master, HyperX, MSI and many more.