Best Wireless Keyboard [2021]

It was close between the G613 and the Corsair K63, but the Logitech G613 squeaked by because of its full-size design and long battery life. While it doesn’t have all the flair of some of the other keyboards, it offers some of the best wireless connections (Bluetooth + RF) while providing a 1ms lag rate when connected using the LIGHTSPEED connection. Plus, it’s a sub-$100 keyboard with mechanical keys and macro-programmable keys too.

While this list is primarily about keyboards, some of the options threw in a mouse too. It just so happens that the Logitech MK345 Wireless Combo came out on top. At less than $50, it stole the show. Not only did they give you a keyboard that can last for up to four years on a single pair of batteries, but they gave you a mouse that’ll last one-and-a-half years on a single battery too. This is a great option for any workplace or home/office configuration.

And while it didn’t make the best overall wireless keyboard option, it still managed to make the list. There was only one knock against it being left out of the Best Overall category: price. But for this category, size matters and the K63 is just the right size. And while the keyboard needs a lot of power, it looks great doing it. If you don’t mind charging it regularly, you’ll love the compact K63 from Corsair.

How We Picked

Cords are everywhere! Power cords for your computer, monitors, printers, and scanners. Video cables for your monitors. USB cords for your printers, scanners, mouse, and keyboard. Even CAT5/6 cables for your internet connection (if you aren’t using a wireless adapter). That’s a lot of cables and cords! In fact, just using that list you would have ten different cables that you would have to manage somehow.

Well, it’s time to start getting rid of some of those cords today! By finding a wireless keyboard and/or wireless keyboard/mouse option, you can start to declutter your workstation and/or desk in a matter of minutes.

The question then becomes … “which wireless keyboard should I get?”

Today, we’re going to address that question and so many more. We’ve put together a list of the best wireless keyboards right now. Some start out under $50 while some come close to the $200 mark. We’ll discuss each one, explain why they cost what they do, and why we like them. In the end, we’re pretty sure you’ll find one that will be perfect for you.

Logitech G613

• Specs:
• Size: Full Size
• Key Type: Mechanical
• Wireless Connection: 2.4GHz (RF) + Bluetooth

Logitech has been around for a long time, creating a lot of components that we’ve learned to trust on a daily basis. And the Logitech G613 wireless keyboard is a worthy competitor.

Right out of the box, this is a big, basic looking keyboard. It’s a full-sized wireless keyboard with an attached wrist rest that’s about half the height of the keyboard itself. On a desktop, you’ll need a little extra space or it’ll hang off the edge. But, the size is actually very comfortable on a lap and the attached wrist rest makes it much easier to use in non-standard locations such as your lap. The keyboard does have two adjustable legs that allow you to move flat to slightly elevated in a matter of seconds (it’s either up or down).

Powering the G613 is simple by using 2 “AA” batteries that are easily accessible from the bottom of the wireless keyboard. According to Logitech, the G613 can last up to 18 months on a single pair of “AA” batteries. It would be nice to know if that’s on the LIGHTSPEED wireless connection or the Bluetooth connection.

On that point, there are two connection methods. One is called LIGHTSPEED and it boasts of a 1ms lag rate, which is unheard of when it comes to wireless devices. The other connection method is Bluetooth and it’s got a slightly longer delay so it cannot be used for high-intensity gaming situation (sorry guys).

The LIGHTSPEED connection uses a lot more power so it’s pretty safe to say that the keyboard won’t last up to 18 months if used in that configuration. To save power, the G613 abstains from the use of lights (except for identifying Bluetooth or LIGHTSPEED connection). They don’t even include a CAPS Lock led in the name of power saving. For those who want to squeeze every ounce of power out of the G613, there’s a power switch on the right side for each accessibility.

Earlier, we described this as a basic looking keyboard. And from appearances, it’s nothing special. However, Logitech managed to create a mechanical keyboard using specialized Romer-G mechanical keys. These are tactile switches that have an extremely short “response” distance of 1.5mm. Under durability testing, Logitech says that the click-life is around 70+ million.

And they’ve managed to load some gaming features into the G613 too with programmable keys called G-Keys. There are six G-Keys that can be programmed using specialized software from Logitech called G HUB. Plus, the macros can be programmed per app or game for greater flexibility and control.

What We Like

Honestly, we’ve never considered a wireless keyboard for any gaming applications, but the G613 with the G-Romer mechanical keys and the LIGHTSPEED wireless connection with a 1ms delay has made us reconsider. We’re not professional gamers, so the 1ms is more than sufficient for all the games we play.

Overall

Even though the Logitech G613 does not come with all the fancy lights and looks, it’s probably one of the best wireless keyboards we’ve seen. It is big, and it looks ultra-basic, but it packs a punch with true mechanical keys and dual-wireless connections. The fact that it can squeeze out up to 18 months of life is pretty impressive too.

Corsair K63

Specs:

• Size: Compact
• Key Type: Mechanical
• Wireless Connection: 2.4GHz (RF) + Bluetooth + USB Wired

Here’s another brand that’s been around for a while, and they’ve also managed to create a ton of components that you probably know and trust. The Corsair K63 is a heavy-hitting competitor to the Logitech G613 with a few extra features.

First and foremost, this is not a full-sized wireless keyboard like the Logitech G613. It’s got a smaller footprint that includes a detachable wrist rest. It will fit comfortably on any desktop environment and even in your lap. For those who like a little more space, there is an additional lap pad that can be purchased separately if you need a little more heft when working from your lap. It does not have any adjustable legs, instead relying on a slightly elevated form to give you a slight hint of angle.

The K63 is powered by a single Lithium Polymer battery that is included, and it is needed. Powering this with a few “AA” batteries would be futile as this thing can drain batteries in a hurry. In fact, most of the time, you’ll be lucky to get ten full hours of use out of the K63 before needing to reconnect it for another charge. The reason for this is the fact that it is backlit – nicely we might add. Even though it is a single-color backlight, it can get bright. If you want to save some power, you can turn down the backlighting brightness or even turn it off. This will help to double and/or triple the time between charges.

The K63 uses three connection methods, two of which are wireless. The two wireless modes are RF and Bluetooth; the third connection is USB cable. When used in RF mode, the keyboard has a lag rate of 1ms which is good for gaming. Of course, the Bluetooth connection is slower, but it also consumes less power. And if you don’t need the wireless option, you can leave it plugged in.

Where the Logitech G613 was basic looking, the Corsair K63 is not. First, it’s very bright. Second, it is much smaller. Third, the detachable wrist rest has a nice little design/pattern that gives is a slightly edgy look. Plus, they managed to slip in some Cherry MX mechanical keys which are lightyears ahead of the Romer-G mechanical keys (quality wise). But, the G613 did have programmable macro keys and the K63 does not; not a big deal for us but for some gamers, this will be a problem.

What We Like

Pretty much, what the G613 from Logitech forgot, the K63 from Corsair added. They managed to slip in RGB backlighting and Cherry MX mechanical keys. They still have an ultra-fast RF connection with a 1ms lag rate and it manages to compact everything down nicely.

Overall

Again, the K63 added on what the G613 forgot. Unfortunately, the lighting does require a lot more power and requires recharging constantly. But, for a wireless keyboard, it’s a great option that has Cherry MX keys (never saw that coming). If you desire a lighted, mechanical keyboard that small and easy to use wherever, the K63 from Corsair should definitely be on your list – hey, it’s on ours.

Logitech MK345 Wireless Combo

Specs:

• Size: Full Size
• Key Type: Membrane
• Wireless Connection: 2.4GHz (RF)

There’s a reason that Logitech shows up so much on our lists – they’re good! And this is another entry from them. While it’s not on the same level as the G613, it’s a great budget option that includes a mouse in one package.

Logitech doesn’t like to stir the pot too much and their designs are simple. As such, the MK345 combination is rather simple looking, yet it still looks better than the G613 design mentioned earlier. The wrist rest is still attached but it’s not nearly as big and obtrusive. It will easily fit on a desktop or a lap just the same. It does have two forward facing adjustable legs that give it a little bit of height, helping to give you one of two angles (up or down).

The MK345 keyboard is powered by 2 “AAA” batteries and is claimed to last for an astounding 48 months. The MK345 mouse is powered by 1 “AAA” battery and is claimed to last for up to 18 months. There’s no real way for someone to easily test these claims, but those are simply mind-boggling numbers. If you needed to turn the keyboard or mouse off, the switch is located on the bottom of either device. Logitech claims that the battery life expectancy is based on 2 million keystrokes per year.

Unlike the G613 mentioned earlier, this only connects using RF (and the supplied USB dongle). However, the RF connection is extremely stable with minimal lag. Both the mouse and the keyboard work from one dongle.

And while it’s still a basic keyboard with an included mouse, Logitech still added in some programmable keys too. The F-Keys are both function keys, controlling volume, play/pause, fast-forward/reverse, and other functions too. Using the downloadable software, you can even assign your own functions to the keys.

What We Like

While this isn’t a G613 keyboard, it’s a great budget option that gives you a keyboard and a mouse in one simple to use package. It’s not oversized, it’s not overloaded with crazy features, and it doesn’t cost much.

Overall

If you want a 2-in-1 option that will easily meet your basic needs, then the MK345 wireless keyboard/mouse combination from Logitech is perfect. It doesn’t have all the fancy lighting and special effects, or the gaming features some of the other keyboards have, but it’s a keyboard that will last for up to 4 years on a single pair of batteries.

Logitech Keys-To-Go

Specs:

• Size: Compact
• Key Type: Membrane
• Wireless Connection: Bluetooth

Here’s another Logitech keyboard, and this time it’s so small it almost got left out. Forget all the F-Keys and the Number Pad. This keyboard focuses on just the #s and letters. Everything is gone! The wireless keyboard is powered by an internal battery that is rechargeable. The battery has a life expectancy of three months between charges.

The keyboard uses Bluetooth to connect to Android devices and Windows devices without any issues. It will connect easily within a ten-foot range. There are two features that make this stand out: the FabricSkin keyboard and the Smartphone Stand. The FabricSkin protects the keyboard from accidental spills and the Smartphone Stand makes it easy to type, even in the most unique of situations (i.e. lap in the airport).

What We Like

This is an ultra-portable option that is easy to use. Just turn on the device, connect using Bluetooth, and away you go. The included smartphone/tablet stand makes life so much easier, especially when composing notes on the fly.

Overall

If you don’t need a full-sized, full-featured, wireless keyboard, then this is the perfect fit of size and functionality. It will work on almost anything not Apple related and the battery is built for the road. It really is an on-the-go option.

Arteck HB030B

Specs:

• Size: Compact
• Key Type: Membrane
• Wireless Connection: Bluetooth

Sticking with the minimalist keyboards, Arteck has created another option to compete with the Keys-To-Go option from Logitech.

It also uses Bluetooth to connect to Windows and/or Android devices seamlessly, but it can also connect to Apple devices too. As with the KTG keyboard, it can also reach to ten feet without any connection issues. It does not come with a specialized skin to protect it, but you can change the backlighting (yes, it has backlighting) from one of seven colors. And where the KTG keyboard can only squeeze out three months of battery life, the Arteck manages to double that with six months of battery life.

What We Like

It’s another ultra-portable option that adds backlighting.

Overall

Again, this isn’t going to do much more than be a keyboard. It does add backlighting which is nice, and it does work with almost any device including Apple products, but it’s still small and lacks the functionality of a full-sized keyboard.

Logitech Wireless Wave

Specs:

• Size: Full Size
• Key Type: Membrane
• Wireless Connection: Bluetooth

You’d almost think that Logitech sponsored us with all the keyboards we’ve mentioned from them – they didn’t (but they should).

That being said, this keyboard leaves convention at the door. In most cases, Logitech sticks to a plain-Jane design. However, with the Wave, they went in the complete opposite direction. It’s big, bulky, and shaped oddly (like a wave). The keyboard is curved (concave in design) and is supposed to help turn the hands in to reduce strain. They do include an attached wrist rest so you won’t get fatigued. And they threw in a mouse too.

Even more, they loaded it down with all kinds of media keys for controlling music, games, power, and so much more.

What We Like

It’s a full-featured, full-sized keyboard that is shaped to help with hand position. If you suffer from normal keyboards, you’ll love this keyboard.

Overall

This is the biggest keyboard we’ve ever seen. The shape is unlike any other keyboard we’ve used too. But, it’s very easy to get used to (should take about a day) and then you’ll struggle going back to a standard rectangular keyboard. For those who suffer from wrist pain, this will help tremendously.

Apple Magic Wireless Keyboard

Specs:

• Size: Compact
• Key Type: Hybrid
• Wireless Connection: Bluetooth + Lightning Port

There aren’t many keyboards listed on our list that handles Apple products, but this one is specifically for Apple products.

As with all other things Apple, it is designed with a minimalist approach. It’s ultra-compact, white and silver, with low-clearance keys that don’t make a lot of noise. It only weighs one-half of a pound, but has the heft that all the other Apple devices have – it’s not just a plastic keyboard.

The wireless keyboard is powered by an internal battery that can be charged using a Lightning cable and the life expectancy is massive (based on previous experience with other Apple products). It uses Bluetooth to connect to a MacBook or an iPhone just the same. Because it’s Apple, the connection is some of the most consistent of all the products in this category.

Beyond that, this is an ultra-compact, ultra-basic keyboard that does one purpose – send keystrokes to an Apple product.

What We Like

The keyboard looks and acts just like any other Apple product – flawless. It’s not feature-filled, nor should it be. Apple builds all of its products with a specific purpose and this keyboard fulfills its purpose and nothing more.

Overall

Everything Apple is built with quality and durability in mind (except cables). This keyboard is a great addition to your Apple devices, especially if you want to cut a few more cords out of the fray.

AmazonBasics Wireless Keyboard

Specs:

Size: Compact

Key Type: Membrane

Wireless Connection: RF

Amazon has started producing products under their “Basics” lineup. This wireless keyboard is one of their product offerings, and it’s a budget-friendly keyboard that works.

There’s nothing fancy about this keyboard from Amazon. It’s a compact, plain-Jane keyboard with blocky keys. There aren’t any specialized backlit keys and it doesn’t have any programmable macro keys. It does have adjustable feet to raise the keyboard for easier typing angle if desired.

It’s powered by 2 “AAA” batteries and it will last for at least a year on a single charge. The keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10 and it’s plug-and-play so you won’t need any specialized drivers to make it work. It comes with a 1-year warranty through AmazonBasics.

What We Like

If you need a generic, basic, wireless keyboard, then this is perfect. It’s not feature-filled in any way. For someone looking to cut the cord, this will do the job.

Overall

While Amazon is just now creating some products under the AmazonBasics lineup, this is a good start. No, it won’t win any awards for the “best of” categories, but it’ll fill a void. If you want a budget-friendly, wireless keyboard, here it is.

Logitech K780

Specs:

• Size: Compact
• Key Type: Membrane
• Wireless Connection: 2.4GHz (RF) + Bluetooth

Another Logitech keyboard? Yep, and this time we’re going to discuss the K780. This is a multi-device keyboard that’ll give you a plethora of options.

While some of the other Logitech offerings looked a little bland, this one steps “out of the box” just a little. Now, all of the keys are rounded and the keyboard has a built-in tablet/smartphone holder on the top. It does not have a wrist rest attached, nor is one available. The keys are not backlit and they are not mechanical. They have a short travel range and they don’t have a loud click sound either.

The K780 is powered by 2 “AA” batteries which are included. They don’t list the life expectancy of the keyboard per charge, but we would expect it should last at least a year (based on prior experience with Logitech products).

Where the K780 shines is its compatibility with multiple devices (Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, and iOS). And you can easily switch between devices using the first three F-Keys on the keyboard. Switching between devices is literally just a click away. The included smartphone/tablet stand makes it easy to keep everything in front of you. The keyboard connects using either RF or Bluetooth and has an estimated range of 30 feet; although that range is hard to prove.

What We Like

Most of the other keyboards have big wrist rest and a lot of programmable buttons or flashy features. The K780 has a built-in tablet/smartphone holder that keeps everything upright and in place.

Plus, you can switch between your tablet and your computer in a matter of seconds.

Overall

Logitech makes some great components, and the K780 is another example of this. Being able to work with so many devices, there’s no doubt that this is perfect for an office environment. And if you wanted to add more functionality, you can connect a FLOW mouse from Logitech and control everything.

Azio Retro BT Classic

Specs:

• Size: Full Size
• Key Type: Mechanical, Customized by Kaihl
• Wireless Connection: 2.4GHz (RF) + USB

Sometimes you just gotta go back to what works and the Azio Retro BT Classic gives us the best of both worlds. The typewriters of old gave us so much pleasure with their long keystrokes and well-defined clicks and thunks. Keyboards today are so quiet, with almost no travel length, and the clicks are not nearly as pleasurable.

So, this is not going to look like a standard keyboard outside of its size. In fact, it’s wrapped in a zinc-alloy frame and has a walnut-styled surface. The keys look more like large, round buttons you would find on a suit and they look lifted. The keys are backlit, a feature that was only made available through mechanical keys created by Kaihl. There aren’t any adjustable legs on this keyboard so you have one height – flat.

The Retro is powered by an internal 6,000 mAh battery and is rechargeable using a USB-C power cord. The life expectancy between charges is claimed to be around two months. As no one is going to wait that long, we’ll take their word for it. If you need longer battery times, you can turn off the backlighting, though we don’t know why you would (just recharge it guys).

Also, the Retro will work with both PCs and MACs. In fact, some of the keys can be swapped to match a MAC, a feature that’s not always available on other wireless keyboards. But, they did not include any programmable keys or extra features. Gamers will not be excited about this keyboard as the keystrokes require more travel and force, plus the click is loud!

What We Like

The look! Did you see it? It’s beautiful and it’ll easily become a conversational piece no matter who stops by. The customized mechanical keys from Kaihl definitely give you a loud, defined click on every keystroke. For those who like a little extra “report”, this is definitely the right keyboard.

Overall

Sometimes you just have to go back in time and the Azio Retro BT Classic manages to bring the “old world” to the “new school”. It’s not a gamer’s keyboard, but it wasn’t designed for that. Instead, this is more of a conversation starter than a keyboard. It has all the basic features with a timeless look that will definitely pique the interest of anyone nearby. It’s a little pricey, but just look at it!

Buyer’s Guide To Find The Best Wireless Keyboard

Need a little help finding the best wireless keyboard for you? No problem!

Here’s everything you need to look for when choosing a wireless keyboard. We tried being very detailed so you would know what’s available. Using this buyer’s guide should make your next purchase a lot easier.

Wireless Connection

Wireless keyboards connect to computers and other devices through one of two connections: RF or Bluetooth.

Radio Frequency, or RF, keyboards connect using a specialized dongle that works via a USB port. The wireless keyboard transmits all the information to the dongle and the dongle then transmits the information to the computer. RF keyboards work on the 2.4GHz frequency just like your WiFi router does (and any other RF wireless devices).

Bluetooth keyboards connect to your computer and other devices through a built-in Bluetooth connection. In most cases, Bluetooth connectivity has already been built into newer devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets. If you’re using an older-model computer, it probably does not have Bluetooth built-in. If you want, you can install a Bluetooth adapter but that’s just adding more costs to the built (which is why some people prefer RF devices).

If you want to use your wireless keyboard with multiple devices such as your smartphone and tablet, then you’ll want to use a Bluetooth wireless keyboard. If you’re only concerned about connecting to your computer (or other USB enabled devices), then an RF wireless keyboard is your best option.

Size

Keyboards come in one of two primary sizes: full-size or compact.

A full-sized keyboard is generally 17 or more inches in width, with 100+ alphanumeric keys. These keyboards will have all your function keys, alphabetic keys, navigational keys, and a number pad. They have a wide spacing gap of around 3.3mm or more to avoid double-tapping (touching two keys at one time). Full-sized keyboards are great for those with bigger hands or those who want full functionality.

A compact keyboard is a compressed version of the full-sized keyboard, thus its name. In most cases, they’ll cut off the number pad and other non-essential keys such as the navigational keys. The gap between keys can be significantly smaller, leading to more double-tapping. Compact keyboards are better for smaller hands and those who prefer portability over functionality.

Layout

Size and layout are intertwined, but there are still some options to consider. Keyboard layouts come in one of three options:

1. Keypad + Number Pad
2. Keypad + Touchpad
3. Keypad Only

A keypad + number pad can be found in both full-sized keyboards and compact keyboards, although a compact keyboard will be much harder to use as the keys are very close together.

A keypad + touchpad can be found in full-sized keyboards only as the touchpad replaces the number pad and requires a significant amount of space.

A keypad only is generally found in compact keyboards. These are considered mini’s or ultra-compacts and they are very small but portable.

Key Type

Keyboards have progressed a long way since their inception. And there are a lot of key types to choose from. There are three primary categories of key types you need to know about:

1. Membrane
2. Mechanical
3. Hybrid

Membranes are the least expensive and the most common keyboard key type. Membrane keys are not individually-independent, but rather they work using a pressure pad that relays which key was pressed down. They generally require the most force of all keys to “register” a keystroke.

Next, mechanical keyboard keys are individually-independent, with different “switches” for certain functions and/or features. These keys are much more sensitive than their membrane counterparts, requiring less force to “register” a keystroke. Some are completely noiseless (linear) whereas some are extremely noisy (tactile/click). These keyboards tend to last the longest and help to increase typing speed and/or reduce typing fatigue.

Hybrid keyboards are a cross between membranes and mechanical keys or the newest opto-mechanical keyboards (from Razer only). Hybrids try to incorporate the best of both/all worlds to give users a more common feel while giving the performance of a more expensive keyboard, without the cost.

Battery Life / Type

All wireless keyboards need some type of power source as they’re not connected to your computer (or other devices). Most wireless keyboards are powered using “AA” or “AAA” batteries. Some have switched over to Lithium-Ion batteries for their extended life and/or rechargeability. And just recently, some are using a combination of Lithium-Ion pair with solar-powered cells for on-the-go power.

The battery life of a wireless keyboard is dependent on a host of factors, but the biggest is how long it is turned on. If you aren’t using your keyboard, it’s your job to turn it off to save power. However, some keyboards have an automatic on/off feature that allows them to power down (sleep) when not in use. Others only have an on/off switch. If you don’t want to be caught powerless, you’ll either need to keep some fresh batteries on hand or learn to turn your keyboard on/off as needed. If this isn’t an option, you might want to look into alternative solutions that allow for rechargeability such as the solar-powered options (not available for wireless keyboards at this time).

Adjustability

While most keyboards do offer some type of adjustability, it’s not unheard of to find a keyboard that doesn’t offer multi-adjustment options. Not everyone likes to type on a flat surface, and some keyboards come equipped with adjustable legs/feet that allow for different typing angles. Some even go as far as offering multiple height adjustments.

Price

And finally, the price of your wireless keyboard can dictate what you purchase. While most keyboards will easily land under $50, the best generally don’t. Some of the best keyboards can easily get into the $150 to $200 range. Of course, they offer the most features while lasting longer than their less expensive counterparts.

If you’re on a budget, it’ll probably be easier to buy an RF wireless keyboard with membrane keys. It will definitely work, but it might not have extra features such as RGB lighting, mechanical keys, or multiple-USB ports for additional devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do wireless keyboards ever lose connections?

A: It is possible, but very rare. Because wireless keyboards are so close to the receiver, it’s not likely that they’ll lose connection. Bluetooth connections tend to work consistently up to ten feet without any issues. RF connections tend to work consistently up to twenty feet without any issues.

Bluetooth keyboards tend to be a little less consistent, especially at greater distances as the communication channel is affected by other outside influences. The more that’s between your keyboard and your Bluetooth receiver, the less likely it’ll work as consistently as you would like.

Q: What do I do if my wireless keyboard dies?

A: In most cases, your wireless keyboard will die because the batteries have died. If you try to turn your wireless keyboard on and it does not light up and/or respond, check the batteries first. Once you replace the batteries, everything should be good to go.

If you change the batteries and the wireless keyboard still does not work, the next thing you should do is check to make sure it is connected to your computer. Since it’s wireless, you’ll need to unplug the USB dongle (RF) and plug it back in or check your Bluetooth devices to see if it’s connected. At times, you might even need to go to the device manager to make sure it’s connected too.

If you’ve checked the battery, and you’ve checked the connections, you might need to reset your computer completely (and turn your keyboard off/on again). If it still isn’t working, you might want to try to reinstall your keyboard drivers. Before you do this, plug in another keyboard to see if it works. If the other keyboard does, it’s not a driver issue.

If you’ve done all of this and the wireless keyboard still does not work and/or respond, it could be dead.

Q: Do wireless keyboards have lag issues?

A: Anything wireless will have a certain amount of “lag” as it has to transmit through the air first, be converted, then sent to the computer. However, the lag associated with a keyboard and mouse is very insignificant. Unless you are gaming, the lag will never be noticeable. And even if you are gaming, there’s a good chance you won’t notice the lag either. Most wireless gaming mice are well below 1ms reaction times today.

Most wireless keyboards have a few milliseconds of lag, with the better ones cutting it down to one or two milliseconds of lag. If you cannot afford any lag issues, then you shouldn’t be using a wireless keyboard.

Q: Do wireless keyboards turn off automatically to save power?

A: Most wireless keyboards are designed to use energy only when needed. Since they don’t have to receive any information, just send information to the computer, the majority of the power consumption is when the keyboard is being typed with.

But, some wireless keyboards have specialized features such as backlighting and other specialized features. These features can become a problem, especially if the wireless keyboard does not automatically turn off. Most of these higher end keyboards have some type of “sleep” mode that allows them to go dormant (and turn off the lights).

Even so, all wireless keyboards have an actual on/off switch. If power consumption is an issue, make sure you turn your keyboard off when you’re not using it. Some power buttons are located on the top, some on the side, some on the bottom. If your keyboard has a power button on the bottom, it’ll be a little more cumbersome to turn the keyboard on/off whenever you want.

Q: Will an RF keyboard interfere with my WiFi network?

A: This is an extremely common question, and it makes sense on the surface. Since most WiFi networks work on either the 2.4GHz frequency or the 5.0GHz frequency, you would think that adding other devices on the same frequency would cause issues, but wireless keyboards don’t send enough “traffic” to congest or clog up the 2.4GHz frequency band/channels.

Q: Is a Bluetooth keyboard better than an RF keyboard?

A: We already touched on this above, but Bluetooth keyboards tend to less consistent over greater distances as they’re more affected by outside influences. The more barriers you have between your keyboard (i.e. desk, books, shelves, modems) and your Bluetooth receiver will affect your connection quality.

But, Bluetooth keyboards are able to be used with more devices without any other specialized equipment (i.e. USB dongle, Bluetooth dongle). For instance, you can use Bluetooth keyboards with smartphones and tablets without any other specialized equipment. Most smartphones and tablets are not compatible with RF keyboards unless you use a specialized USB dongle.

Q: Do they offer wireless keyboards with mouse options?

A: Yes, some wireless keyboards come with an included mouse. Of course, this will require more batteries as the mouse will also need to be powered up. This does not affect your connection issues anymore than just having a wireless keyboard alone.

Q: Can other devices be connected to a wireless keyboard (i.e. USB drive, mouse)?

A: This is another very common question, that again makes sense on the surface. Other keyboards have extra USB ports for additional devices like a mouse or a thumb drive. But, those keyboards are physically connected to the computer and can handle more data transfers.

A wireless keyboard or keyboard combination is more a transmitter than a receiver. While a mouse might work with a wireless keyboard, a USB drive will not. The data rates would be exceptionally slow if they did, but even more, it would drain the power out of your keyboard in a matter of minutes as the communication would be constant (bi-directional communication).

If you really need extra USB ports on your wireless keyboard, don’t buy a wireless keyboard or buy a desktop USB hub with additional USB ports for extra peripherals and storage options.

Q: What’s the range of a wireless keyboard?

A: The maximum known range of most wireless devices (Bluetooth and RF) is around 30 feet. But, that’s in a perfect setting with everything “just right”. Most wireless options will work consistently at ten feet or less and then it gets “spotty” after ten feet.

There’s really nothing you can do to extend the distance of these wireless devices as they just don’t have the power to really push the signal any further.

Conclusion

Using a wireless keyboard or wireless keyboard/mouse combination makes a ton of sense. We have more than enough wires at our computer station or desk. Getting rid of one (or two) extra wires is an easy decision.

For many, the choice to go wireless is easy … but finding the right wireless device is another story. There are so many options that it can quickly become a hassle deciding on the right one for you. And with the prices ranging from $20 all the way to $200, it can be frustrating. Do you really need everything the $200 wireless keyboard offers or can you get by with the $20 option?

The list we provided should help take care of all of these questions for you. At the time of our review, these were the best wireless keyboards. And hopefully, you found one that was perfect for you. If not, you could use our buyer’s guide above to help you make an informed and safe decision. In either case, we’re excited that you’re looking for a new wireless keyboard.

Product Boxes: Last updated on 2021-03-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API