What’s worse than having a ton of college assignments? Not having a comfortable and efficient keyboard to support all the typing that comes with the load of assignments. Sure most people prefer laptops because of the ease of portability.
But you should know that a decent dedicated keyboard will totally transform those long typing sessions for you. Alongside reducing fatigue, an efficient keyboard will also make your productivity better.
As someone who types a lot, you’ll want a mechanical keyboard with tactile switches that enable a faster and quieter typing experience. For utmost affordability, you might as well consider a good membrane keyboard.
Anyway, the best you can do is go through the following list of keyboards for college students and save yourself from the struggle of finding the right one from a plethora of options!
Which are the Best Computer Keyboards for College Students?
1. Logitech G610
- Backlight: Yes
- Type: Mechanical
- Connectivity: Wired, USB 2.0
- Switches: Cherry MX Red
This keyboard by Logitech is an all rounder because not only it is suitable for typists but is a treat for gamers too. It is an affordable gaming keyboard which comes with all the specs that are typically sought by an average user.
The G610 is a wired mechanical keyboard that’ll keep you stress free from the hassle of charging every so often and bluetooth connectivity. This full size keyboard is equipped with Cherry MX Red Switches that deliver fluid and tactile feedback.
With each click, the keys produce a tactile bump that’ll have you know that each keystroke was logged. This keyboard offers great comfort even during long typing sessions because of the minimal actuation force of the keys.
Despite the clicky feedback, the keys are unbelievably quiet which also means that you can work in complete peace without disturbing anyone around as well.
On top of that, you’ll find the backlit keyboard to make your monotonous working sessions slightly pleasant. The lighting is customizable and so are the function keys.
The easy access media control allow you to continue work without interruption. Overall, this keyboard delivers a fluid and comfortable typing experience.
It comes with wired technology and you can use it with Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and 10 Windows 8, Windows 7.
2. Keychron K6
- Backlight: Yes
- Type: Mechanical
- Connectivity: Bluetooth/Wireless and Wired
- Switches: Gateron G Pro Red
The Keychron K6 is a 65% layout keyboard which means it is super compact and will not take up quite a lot of space on your study station.
It is a mechanical keyboard with Gateron G Pro Red switches which produce a very responsive and swift feedback. Each keystroke is effortlessly recorded to ensure that you don’t miss a thing as you type.
The keys are considerably quiet yet produce an audible click that helps you recognise whenever a stroke is missed.
Yet another amazing factor of this keyboard is its versatility and connectivity. It supports both bluetooth and USB Type C connection. The keyboard is equipped with a huge 4000mAh battery which can easily last for over 3 weeks for an average user.
Despite being super compact, the keyboard offers access to all the essential multimedia and function keys.
The white backlighting adds a low-key charm to the keyboard. All in all, this keyboard is a great deal for the price and its standing features are of course, the flexible connectivity, affordability and comfort.
3. Apple Magic Keyboard
- Backlight: No
- Type: Apple Magic Keyboard
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Switches: Scissor
This keyboard is only fully suitable for Apple users only because most of the keys are not functional when connected with Windows or Linux. And as for an Android system, it obviously does no good.
Anyway, this Magic keyboard is quite popular due to its sleek low profile design. The compact wireless design will keep your study station clutter free. It is lightweight and hence, easy to carry around.
This keyboard operates on a scissor mechanism that enables a smooth typing experience. The keys are incredibly quiet which is a huge plus point for those residing in college dorms. However, a little bit of a turn off for those of you who like some clicky ASMR.
The keys are responsive with very little pre-travel distance which is definitely a plus point in terms of typing. The keyboard lacks a backlighting feature which may be a problem for the night owls out there.
Yet overall, typing on the Apple Magic Keyboard is very comfortable, all hail to its low profile design. And lastly, connectivity is a breeze too!
4. Redragon K552
- Backlight: Yes
- Type: Mechanical
- Connectivity: Wired
- Switches: Outemu red
A little too tight on the budget yet hoping to lay your hands on a mechanical keyboard? Well, here’s your best chance. This ultra affordable gaming keyboard will have you covered in all ways.
This keyboard utilizes mechanical red switches which are almost a Cherry MX Blue clone (although advertised as a MX red equivalent). The keys deliver a fast and responsive feedback with minimum pre-travel distance.
However, if you’re in a noise sensitive environment then, you may want to consider another option because this keyboard is noticeably noisy. Each keystroke produces an audible click. Yet, that doesn’t change the fact that typing on this keyboard is a breeze.
The custom RGB lighting is the standing feature of this keyboard because it is as good as its high end competitors except the lack of on-board memory. The metal Abs construction gives quite a premium feel to the keyboard.
Overall, the anti ghosting keys ensure the logging of each keystroke and that’s pretty much what we’re looking for! Not to mention, the effortless typing will keep you fatigue free even with lengthy assignments.
5. Ractous RTK61
- Backlight: Yes
- Type: Mechanical
- Connectivity: Type-C connection
- Switches: Gateron Optical Blue
The features of this gaming keyboard are sure as hell unbeatable for the price. The RTK61 is equipped with all the specs that make it a perfect keyboard for college students.
It is a 60% layout design which means the keyboard has a minimal footprint and is going to cut the clutter off of your desk. This mechanical keyboard functions on Gateron Blue Switches which enable responsive and clicky feedback.
The switches are quite smooth and deliver tactile feedback, however, they’re loud. The ergonomic design of this keyboard allows you to comfortably type for long hours as it requires moderate pressing force which minimises fatigue.
But since the keys produce an audible feedback, you’ll have to re-evaluate your choices if you work with people around. Moving on, the customizable RGB lighting of this keyboard is totally admirable with 13 modes.
The PBT pudding caps are definitely a steal at 50 bucks. The keys are abrasion resistant and have quite a sturdy feel to them.
The keyboard is super lightweight and requires a simple Type-C connection which makes it easier to carry around at college as well.
6. Arteck 2.4G
- Backlight: No
- Type: Membrane
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Switches: Scissor keys
Sleek and minimalistic design with a comfortable typing experience, that’s how you can sum up this Arteck keyboard. If mechanical keyboards are not your thing then, this one will be a suitable pick for you.
It is a membrane keyboard with scissor keys that deliver an incredibly silent typing experience. The full size of this keyboard provides a roomy layout with a total of 18 hotkeys. Additionally, the stainless steel sides give a promising premium feel to the keyboard.
The low profile design of this wireless keyboard promotes a comfortable typing experience with wrists resting at an adequately inclined angle. The space between the keys ensures efficient and accurate typing.
A lack of backlighting sure is a drawback for the otherwise spectacular keyboard. But we don’t consider it a deal breaker though. Apart from that, the battery life is something that you’ll definitely cherish.
It can last up to 6 months on a single charge, however, that’ll vary depending on your usage. This fantastic keyboard comes with an ergonomic mouse which will be a perfect upgrade for your setup!
7. Logitech MX Keys
- Backlight: Yes
- Type: Membrane
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Switches: Scissor
Last but not the least is a membrane keyboard by Logitech, which is a trusted name and almost always lives up to our expectations. With this keyboard, the case is no different.
This mini version of the MX keys takes up minimal space due to its compact design. Although, it may take some practice to achieve typing accuracy if you’re used to full size keyboards.
The keyboard utilises scissor switches which promote swift and efficient typing. The minimal pre-travel distance ensures responsive feedback.
Moreover, the keys require low pressing force which means typing will be almost effortless and incredibly comfortable.
The keyboard doesn’t produce an audible feedback which can be a pro or con depending on your preference. The ergonomically designed low profile layout is yet another factor that adds comfort.
Apart from that, the automatic backlighting feature that works by motion sensors is definitely pleasing. All in all, this keyboard will prove to be a flattering addition to your study desk.
8. iClever GK03
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Switches: Low profile
iClever GK03 is the best computer keyboard with a mouse combo for students that comes at a reasonable price. It aims to provide complete perfection and a comfortable typing experience with an ergonomic design. Also, it offers you flexibility as it comes with wireless technology and a portable and lightweight design.
As a college student, it is essential to work in comfort for the whole day, and this keyboard meets all of your needs. It is specially manufactured with an ergonomic design to maximize your overall comfort.
The only downside of this keyboard is that it has a cheap build quality.
It offers you a solid and reliable connection with better connectivity. It is fully compatible with both mac and windows. Also, you get multimedia keys that will allow you to control various options at your fingertips.
It comes with an automatic power-off feature. Inside, you get to see the intelligent chip that will automatically detect your working condition. When you’re not using this keyboard, it will automatically go into sleeping mode.
This keyboard comes with silent whisper-quiet switches if you are typing and reading simultaneously and need total concentration. You get satisfied tactile feedback on every tap with this keyboard, and you can smoothly type without disturbing your studies. Also, you get a wireless responsive mouse which will be perfectly fit according to your needs.
9. HAVIT Mechanical Keyboard
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Switches: Mechanical
This keyboard proves to be portable with wireless technology. While typing and working, you get silent satisfied tactile feedback on every tap, and you get a smooth typing experience. It comes with plug-and-play technology and a detachable USB passthrough so you can connect other devices with it. Also, you get to see the customizable RGB backlighting mode, but RGB lights blink fast maybe disappoint you.
At first glance, you feel this mechanical keyboard is lighter and thinner than traditional mechanical keyboards. It is an ultra-thin 104 keys full-size keyboard with a number pad.
The RGB backlight allows you to type in a dark environment, and the great thing is that you can customize it as per your needs. The overall keyboard is perfect, but sometimes backlights blink fast, which may disappoint you.
The 6mm ultra-thin suspended keycaps provide a silent and quiet typing experience. If you use this wireless computer keyboard for typing or gaming, you can enjoy the high-grade performance with fast response.
You don’t need to install any additional software to run; you have to insert the USB receiver and instantly use it. Also, you can use this keyboard with Win 10/Win 8/Win 7/Vista/Linux, but the downside is that RGB keys are only compatible with windows.
10. SteelSeries Apex M750
- Connectivity: Wired
- Switches: Mechanical
SteelSeries Apex M750 is the ideal computer keyboard for students specially manufactured with a durable aluminum alloy body. On the top of you get to see the full-anti ghosting mechanical silent switches, and it offers you a smooth typing experience. It comes with wired technology, so while typing, you don’t feel lagging, some users think clicky sound sometimes.
Silent and quiet typing is very significant if you are working as a college student, so you get to see the linear and quiet mechanical switches on the top of this keyboard. These switches significantly enhance your productivity, and you can type and play without disturbing your family. Therefore, these switches come up with the durable 50 million keypresses feature that provides you with the best and pure performance.
As a college student, if you want to work in the dark environment or at night, this keyboard is perfect as it comes with RGB backlights. This backlight comes with multi-color lighting effects, and you can customize it as per your needs. On the other hand, if you use this keyboard as a gamer, it makes excellent effects according to your gaming gear at night.
The frame of the Apex M750’s keyboard is highly durable as it is specially manufactured with an aluminium metal alloy. At first sight, you get this keyboard in a stunning and simple design, and you get it with a beautiful black matte finish. The excellent look and durable body make this keyboard perfect and the centre of your gaming set up. Also, the simple design of this keyboard makes your typing perfect and without any distraction.
Finally, if you are looking for a simple, durable, and silent mechanical keyboard as a college student, the SteelSeries Apex M750 keyboard is ideal.
11. Cooler Master CK530 V2 Keyboard
- Connectivity: Wired
- Switches: Mechanical
Cooler Master CK530 V2 is the best computer keyboard with a wrist rest design that will enhance your comfort. You get to see the mechanical switches that provide you satisfying tactile feedback on every tap on the top of it. It comes with the RGB backlighting with full of customization, and you get to see the 16.8 million colors. Conversely, its quality control is poor that maybe disappoint you when you are using it.
This keyboard is perfect for you because you get this keyboard without a num pad, and it comes with a brushed aluminum body. Its minimalist design comes by keeping in mind the overall functionality of the keyboard. Also, you get it with a wrist rest that provides you full wrist support, and you can type for the whole day without any hesitation. At first sight, you can see this keyboard with a curved top plate and floating keycaps.
You get to see the durable mechanical switches that come with the 50 million keypresses on the top of it. Also, it’s RGB backlighting that comes with 16.8 million colors proves to be perfect for you if you want to work in the dark as a student. The multiple lighting modes have the unique effect of increasing your productivity and you can type smoothly without any problem.
As you know, it comes with the customizable RGB backlit and you can control the 16.7 million colors by using the software. Also, you can adjust the setting on the fly by using this keyboard. It is a wired mechanical keyboard for students when it comes to its connectivity, and it provides you reliable and lag-free connection.
In the end, if you are playing games or type for the whole day, so Cooler Master CK530 V2 is the perfect keyboard as it comes with the wrist rest manufactured with the low-friction cloth.
12. Logitech G512
- Connectivity: Wired
- Switches: Mechanical
Logitech G512 is the best keyboard for quick and easy typing with the Numpad and premium design. Also, it comes with a sleek design, and you can easily carry it anywhere as a student. It comes with unparalleled build quality, and it especially delivers a blend of excellent performance. On the other hand, the only shortcoming of this keyboard is that sometimes you may face Finicky RGB lights.
The top case of this mechanical keyboard is manufactured with aircraft-grade 5052 aluminium materials. The top case of this keyboard is anodized and brushed and provided you with a slim, stunning, and beautiful design. Also, you get to see the durable mechanical switches along with a rigid durable body that comes with the 50 million keypresses on the top of it.
These mechanical switches provide you with silent tactile feedback on every tap, and you can smoothly work without disturbing anyone. You can type and work with full of confidence and precision and get satisfied actuation without being too loud or distracting.
It is a silent mechanical keyboard for college students that comes with the full function keys that will allow you to control various options. You get to see the RGB backlight with multiple effects on each individual key. Using this keyboard, you can adjust media options like volume, brightness, and lighting on your fingertips. The RGB effects you get to see inside comes with 16.8 million colors, and you can adjust it as per your needs.
It is the best keyboard with a USB passthrough that proves to be ideal for college students as it offers you many features. The USB pass-through you get to see on the top allows you to connect the mouse or various devices with your PC. Also, the unique feature of this keyboard is that you can connect to another keyboard and use it to play games with your friends.
Finally, the Logitech G512 keyboard is the perfect choice for you, and you get excellent performance when using it as a student.
Best Computer Keyboard for College Student: Buying Guide
A dedicated keyboard for a laptop can entirely transform your typing experience and increase your productivity significantly. But choosing an efficient keyboard that meets all your needs can be quite a task when you don’t know what you’re exactly looking for, right?
So here’s a list of few integral features that you should be focusing on as you hunt for a decent keyboard!
Types of Keyboard
While there are numerous recognised types of keyboards, mechanical and membrane keyboards are the most basic ones which can be further categorised into gaming, ergonomic, or multimedia keyboards, etc.
A membrane keyboard works by a rubber layer which registers a keystroke each time a key is pressed with force. A membrane keyboard does not produce any audible feedback and requires a greater pressing force in order to recognise a keystroke. However, it is a cheaper option that’s appropriate for a basic user who’s not concerned with much keyboard usage.
On the contrary, a mechanical keyboard has individual switches for each key. These keyboards are sensitive to touch and record each stroke efficiently. The mechanical switches come in numerous types, the most famous being the Cherry MX switches (blue, red, brown, etc.). Mechanical keyboards are well suited for typists and gamers but of course, are priced higher than membrane keyboards.
Switch Type
The overwhelming amount of Cherry MX switches can make the process of selection quite intimidating. However, you don’t need to worry much. As a college student, you’re mostly concerned with typing your assignments or writing papers. Or maybe a little gaming to take the workload off of yourself.
For that kind of usage, the Cherry MX red switches are going to be your best bet. These switches produce a small bump at each stroke with minimal noise. With the MX red switches, you’ll receive tactile feedback with little actuation force. These type of switches are suitable for gaming and typing, both.
Other than that, Cherry MX blue and brown switches are also an ideal choice for the ones who are involved with a lot of typing tasks.
Connectivity
The type of connectivity is really a matter of personal preference. Your keyboard can either be powered through a wired or wireless connection.
When choosing to go with a wireless keyboard, know that you’ll always have to be mindful of its charging and battery life i.e. you’ll add another task to your life. But of course, the wireless keyboards give you the privilege of keeping your desk clutter free. At times, the connectivity of wireless keyboards can be a pain too but everything has its pros and cons, doesn’t it?
Wired keyboards will keep you free from the hassle of charging. Connection of a wired keyboard usually happens in a snap, however, the wire can add to the mess of your study station.
Backlighting
Backlighting of a keyboard is again, a matter of personal preference. However, I believe that the students who live in shared rooms or college dorms can really benefit from the keyboard backlighting especially if they like to work at night. A lack of backlighting means a stressful typing situation in low light conditions and that’s the last thing you’ll want when nearing the assignment deadlines!
A simple white backlight can serve the purpose just right. But if you’re looking to create an aesthetically pleasing study station, then, you might want to go for an RGB keyboard. So make a choice based on your requirements!
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of keyboard is best for students?
Students really don’t need to invest in a high end keyboard. Keeping the affordability and efficiency in mind, it is best to go for entry level mechanical keyboards that deliver a comfortable typing experience. Some good options are Logitech G610 and Apple Magic Keyboard.
Should I get a mechanical keyboard for college?
Yes, entry level mechanical keyboards are an excellent choice for college students. They’ll have you covered for both college tasks and gaming. They’re more efficient and hence, maximise productivity. Membrane keyboards can be a good choice too. However, there’s nothing better than finding affordable mechanical keyboards.
Which brand of computer keyboard is the best?
Well, there certainly isn’t one name. But Logitech is currently producing some top of the line keyboards. It is a well known and widely trusted name that does live up to the expectations of its customers. Other than that, Razer, Corsair, and Apple are excellent choices as well.
What is the best keyboard 2022?
You have plenty of options in that regard. We’ve compiled a list of 7 best keyboards for college students that are super affordable and efficient in terms of typing. The Logitech G610 is an amazing full size keyboard. On the other hand, the Ractous RTK61 is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a compact keyboard.
