Types of Computer Keyboards

Various types of computer keyboards exist; from basic to multimedia, beige to bright colors and even a lighted wireless keyboard; but are they compatible with your computer?

Your keyboard will die before your PC. This is because it takes so much more direct physical contact from us – more so than any other component. (People even tend to be gentler on their mouse than their keyboard.)

A descendant of the typewriter, the keyboard holds a large number of keys on a fixed base so you can "key" commands for the PC to follow or just type information into a program, like Word Processing Software.


The computer keyboard layout is remarkably close to that of the the typewriter, but has extra function keys preprogrammed for specific uses. Function keys can work alone but can also be used simultaneously with other keys (like the "shift" key on a typewriter). Many of these added keys help with editing, searching, and are often called "shortcuts" or "hotkeys".

Basic ... Multimedia ... Advanced Options

The original computer keyboard had 84 keys, then the "enhanced" keyboard, with 101 keys, was introduced. The 101 and 104 key styles are the most popular. You can also get keyboards with many more keys and functions you can program depending what functionality you need.

But no one has to stick with the standard keyboard that comes with their PC. There are many options to consider. The types of computer keyboards that are available now is almost endless. Keyboards from different manufacturers often look a bit different and have different optional keys as well.

The one thing you don't have to worry about when you select a new keyboarding unit for your PC is compatibility ... these are as great at cross-system compatibility as the computer mouse is!

You will find keyboards with independent number pads; shift lock; hotkeys; and caps lock keys. Hot keys help you access email, get on the Internet, and other frequently used programs faster. Even keyboards that offer multimedia hotkeys to take advantage of all the Internet has to offer.

Keyboards also come in a variety of sizes, colors and shapes -- all designed to satisfy the every day computer user who is looking for that special keyboard.

Ergonomic keyboards come with a contoured shape that offers a futuristic sculpted design and are designed to keep the hands in a natural position that helps avoid repetitive stress injuries to the wrists. Anyone who does a lot of keyboarding or suffers from wrist strain will love an ergonomic keyboard.

Color & Light It Up!

Colors are all the rage now in keyboards and you can even get mice to match. Hot yellow, red, and electric blue make a statement that can’t be ignored.

You can even get keyboards with light effects built right in. Finding a lighted wireless keyboard may not be something your local store has but you are sure to find a few on the internet!

Endless Choices For Personalizing Computer Keyboards

You can go with a basic keyboard, multimedia or split keyboard; you can even find computer keyboards in wireless, bright colors, waterproof and more.

So when your keyboard finally gives out; don't fret; the cost is minimal to find a replacement and the choices are endless. Plus you don't have to worry about compatibility with your system ... so take a few minutes now to browse the different keyboards available ... you will enjoy the differences!




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