Best Keyboards for Typing Speed: A Buyer's Guide

Does Your Keyboard Matter?

Yes! The right keyboard can:

Reduce fatigue during long typing sessions
Decrease errors with better key feel
Increase speed with optimal key travel
Prevent repetitive strain injuries

Types of Keyboards

Membrane Keyboards

Pros: Cheap, quiet, spill-resistant Cons: Mushy feel, less durable, harder to type fast Best for: Light users, quiet environments

Mechanical Keyboards

Pros: Tactile feedback, durable, satisfying feel Cons: Louder, more expensive Best for: Heavy typists, programmers, gamers

Scissor-Switch Keyboards

Pros: Low profile, stable keys, laptop-like feel Cons: Limited travel, less tactile Best for: Those who prefer laptop keyboards

Mechanical Switch Types

Linear Switches (Red/Black)

Smooth keypress, no bump
Quiet operation
Fast for gaming, some find it harder for typing

Tactile Switches (Brown)

Bump at actuation point
Good for typing — you know when key registers
Moderate noise

Clicky Switches (Blue/Green)

Audible click at actuation point
Most satisfying for typing
Loudest option — not for shared offices

Key Features for Typists

Key Travel

Distance the key moves when pressed
3-4mm is standard for mechanical
Too short = more errors, too long = fatigue

Actuation Force

How hard you press
45-55g is comfortable for most
Lighter = less fatigue, heavier = fewer accidental presses

Key Rollover

How many simultaneous keypresses register
N-key rollover is best
6-key minimum for fast typing

Build Quality

PBT keycaps last longer than ABS
Metal frame is more stable
Quality stabilizers reduce wobble

Ergonomic Options

Split Keyboards

Two separate halves
Shoulders stay natural width
Takes adjustment period

Curved/Contoured Keyboards

Keys arranged in wells for each finger
Reduces finger travel
Steep learning curve

Tented Keyboards

Raised in the middle
More natural wrist angle
Reduces pronation strain

Budget Recommendations

Under $50

Basic mechanical keyboards with generic switches. Good for trying mechanical without big investment.

$50-100

Quality mechanical keyboards from established brands. Good switches, decent build quality.

$100-200

Premium mechanical keyboards. Better switches, PBT keycaps, hot-swappable options.

$200+

Enthusiast-grade. Custom options, premium materials, boutique switches.

Tips for Choosing

Try before buying if possible
Consider noise — will it bother others?
Think about size — full, TKL, or 60%?
Check connectivity — wired is most reliable
Read reviews — focus on typing experience, not gaming

The Truth About Speed

A great keyboard won't make a slow typist fast. But it can:

Make practice more enjoyable
Reduce fatigue during long sessions
Provide better feedback for learning
Last longer than cheap alternatives

Test Your Setup

Whatever keyboard you have, measure your current speed with our typing test. The best keyboard is one you'll actually use for practice.