What is a Keyboard? Different Types of Keyboards Explained (2025)

The keyboard is one of the most essential input devices for communication, gaming, programming, and much more. Whether you’re typing an email, controlling a video game, or coding an app, keyboards play a crucial role. In this guide, we’ll cover what is a keyboard, explore the different types of keyboards, and help you understand which one best suits your needs.

What is a Keyboard?

A keyboard is a physical device made up of a set of keys that lets users input text, numbers, and commands into a computer or other devices.

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It functions similarly to a typewriter. However, it offers far more versatility. Modern keyboards often include function keys, shortcut keys, multimedia controls, and customizable keys to improve user experience.

Different Types of Keyboards

There are various types of keyboards designed for different tasks and user preferences. Let’s dive into the most popular ones:

Mechanical Keyboards

Mechanical keyboards feature individual mechanical switches under each key that register every keystroke. These switches provide distinctive tactile feedback, allowing users to feel and hear the actuation of each key press, making typing more satisfying and precise.

Features

Durable (can last for tens of millions of keystrokes)

Highly responsive

Preferred by gamers, typists, and programmers

Popular examples: Cherry MX, Razer Green switches

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Membrane Keyboards

Membrane keyboards use a pressure pad system where all keys are connected under a single membrane sheet.

Features

Lightweight and inexpensive

Quiet keypresses

Less tactile feedback

Common uses: Office work, casual computer use

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Wireless Keyboards

As the name suggests, wireless keyboards connect to devices without using cables, typically via Bluetooth or RF (radio frequency).

Features

Greater mobility and less desk clutter

Battery-powered or rechargeable

Ideal for home offices, smart TVs, tablets

Gaming Keyboards

Manufacturers design special types of keyboards with advanced features specifically for gamers. Furthermore, they provide enhanced performance and customization options as given below:

Features

RGB lighting

Programmable keys (macros)

Anti-ghosting and N-key rollover

Mechanical switches for faster response

Brands like Logitech, Razer, and Corsair are the market leader in gaming keyboard.

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Ergonomic Keyboards

These keyboards reduce strain on your hands and wrists during extended typing sessions, improving comfort and productivity. They often feature a split or curved design to encourage a natural hand position.

Features

Minimized risk of repetitive strain injuries (RSI)

Ideal for long hours of typing

Often used by professionals and remote workers

Virtual Keyboards

Virtual keyboards are on-screen keyboards that can be used with a mouse, touchscreen, or stylus.

Features

No physical device required

Useful for touchscreen devices like smartphones and tablets

Important for accessibility needs

To enable the On-Screen Keyboard on Windows

Open Run dialog box by pressing Windows + R key

Type osk and press Enter.

The On-Screen Keyboard will appear, and you can use it to type by clicking the keys with your mouse.

Alternatively : Go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard > Toggle on Use the On-Screen Keyboard.

Flexible Keyboards

Flexible keyboards are made of soft silicone material, making them waterproof and highly portable.

Features

Rollable and easy to carry

Water-resistant

Great for rugged environments or travel

Other Specialized Keyboards

Chiclet Keyboards: Low-profile keys, often found in laptops.

Projection Keyboards: Use lasers to project a virtual keyboard onto flat surfaces.

Multimedia Keyboards: Include extra keys for media control like play, pause, and volume.