What is the best keyboard for beginners?

When choosing a keyboard for beginners, it’s important to focus on comfort, ease of use, and value for money. Here are some factors to consider and top recommendations for beginner-friendly keyboards:

Key Considerations for a Beginner's Keyboard

  1. Typing Comfort: A comfortable typing experience is essential, especially if you’re new to keyboards. Look for ergonomic designs or low-profile keys.
  2. Price: Beginners often want an affordable yet reliable keyboard to start with.
  3. Switch Type: For mechanical keyboards, the type of switch (tactile, linear, or clicky) can make a big difference in comfort and preference. Membrane keyboards are generally quieter and more affordable.
  4. Build Quality: You’ll want a durable keyboard, especially if you're still learning proper typing technique or experimenting with gaming/programming.
  5. Ease of Use: Plug-and-play functionality, minimal software setup, and simple layouts are better for beginners.

Best Keyboards for Beginners

1. Logitech K120

  • Type: Membrane
  • Key Features: Simple, durable, and affordable. It's a great entry-level keyboard for general typing, with quiet keys and an easy-to-use plug-and-play setup.
  • Why it's good for beginners: At under $20, it offers reliability without any complex features or learning curves.

2. Keychron K2

  • Type: Mechanical (various switch options)
  • Key Features: Compact 75% layout, wireless/Bluetooth capability, and hot-swappable switches (optional).
  • Why it's good for beginners: Ideal for those wanting to try a mechanical keyboard without jumping straight into a full-sized or expensive model. Offers a lot of features for the price and is compatible with both Mac and Windows.

3. Razer Cynosa V2

  • Type: Membrane
  • Key Features: Full RGB lighting, quiet keys, and dedicated media controls.
  • Why it's good for beginners: Affordable, and membrane keys make it quieter than mechanical options. It also offers a solid introduction to gaming keyboards without overwhelming a beginner with too many features.

4. Redragon K552

  • Type: Mechanical (Outemu Blue Switches)
  • Key Features: Mechanical switches, compact tenkeyless design, RGB lighting, and budget-friendly pricing.
  • Why it's good for beginners: It’s a great introduction to mechanical keyboards at a low cost, providing the tactile feedback that many people enjoy. However, the Blue switches are clicky, so it may be a bit loud.

5. Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard

  • Type: Membrane
  • Key Features: Split keyboard design, cushioned palm rest, and curved key layout.
  • Why it's good for beginners: This is an excellent choice if comfort and ergonomics are your priority. The split design encourages proper wrist positioning, making it ideal for prolonged typing sessions.

6. Corsair K55 RGB

  • Type: Membrane
  • Key Features: Full-size layout, RGB backlighting, programmable macro keys, and dedicated media controls.
  • Why it's good for beginners: It’s an affordable option for those looking for gaming features like RGB lighting and macro keys without diving into mechanical keyboards.

7. Logitech K380

  • Type: Membrane (Low-profile)
  • Key Features: Wireless, compact design, multi-device support (switch between up to 3 devices), and quiet keys.
  • Why it's good for beginners: It's portable and has a simple design that’s ideal for basic typing. It’s also great for use with tablets and smartphones.

8. HyperX Alloy Core RGB

  • Type: Membrane
  • Key Features: Quiet membrane keys, spill-resistant design, RGB lighting.
  • Why it's good for beginners: A solid build quality and quiet typing experience make this a great entry-level keyboard, especially for gamers who are just starting out.

Membrane vs. Mechanical for Beginners

  • Membrane Keyboards: Generally more affordable, quieter, and simple to use. Great for general typing and light gaming.
  • Mechanical Keyboards: Offer a more satisfying typing experience, better durability, and faster response times, but they tend to be louder and more expensive. They are ideal if you want to invest in a better typing or gaming experience.

Conclusion

  • Best Budget Option: Logitech K120 or Redragon K552.
  • Best for Typing Comfort: Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard.
  • Best for Gaming Beginners: Corsair K55 RGB or Razer Cynosa V2.
  • Best for Trying Mechanical: Keychron K2 or Redragon K552.

 

Check out this great keyboard -Razer Cynosa V2 (paid ad)

For beginners, it's best to start with something affordable yet comfortable, and you can upgrade as you gain more experience and learn what you prefer in a keyboard.