What to consider when choosing a Bluetooth keyboard
Bluetooth keyboards tend to have a wider variety of features than their corded counterparts. The connectivity means these keyboards aren't just for desktops but can also control your smartphone, tablet, or even smart TV. What you plan to use the keyboard for will impact which one is the best for you.
Size: Do you want to take your Bluetooth keyboard anywhere or will the keyboard mainly stay on your desk or in your living room? Foldable keyboards and compact, 60% keyboards are made to easily tuck into a bag and go anywhere. But they lack some keys and can be uncomfortable to type on long-term. If you don't need the number pad, a tenkeyless or TKL keyboard is a happy medium, offering more comfort while still fitting into a backpack. TKLs also take up less space on a desk, letting you keep your mouse more easily within reach.
Type: Scissor switch keyboards are quieter, more affordable, and have a lower profile. Mechanical keyboards, on the other hand, can offer more tactile and auditory feedback alongside precise actuation that many regular typists love, plus they tend to have greater durability.
Ergonomics: The wrong type of keyboard can cause wrist strain with extended use. Dr. Kevin Weaver, an ergonomics expert certified by the Board of Certified Professional Ergonomists and the Oxford Institute and a Clinical Assistant Professor of physical therapy at New York University, suggests typists with larger hands choose a larger keyboard. A wrist pad, contoured keys, and softer scissor switches may also be more comfortable, he says.
Extra features: Many keyboards go beyond the typical QWERTY layout. Some offer media keys — particularly those for smart TVs — or other dedicated macro keys. Others have different shortcuts built in for gaming or more general tasks.
Battery life: Consider how long your Bluetooth keyboard will last without needing to charge again. We suggest looking for batteries that can last longer than a week, though mechanical models will always have battery life measured in hours because of their bigger power draw.