Wireless keyboards in our range cover full-size office models with a numeric keypad, slim Bluetooth keyboards for laptops and tablets, and compact 75% and mini layouts. There are over 600 models for home, office and medical use. Leading brands include Logitech, Cherry, Dell and HP. Most connect through a USB receiver, Bluetooth, or both.
How to choose a wireless keyboard
Connection. A keyboard with an RF USB receiver works as soon as the receiver is plugged in, but it uses a USB port. Bluetooth keeps the ports free and pairs with laptops, tablets and phones. Our range includes RF-only, Bluetooth-only and dual RF plus Bluetooth keyboards, and the dual models are the easiest to move between a desktop PC and a tablet.
Size and layout. Full-size keyboards with a numeric keypad are the most common in our range and make sense if you enter figures or work in spreadsheets. Tenkeyless, 75% and mini keyboards are also available. They take up less desk space and leave more room for the mouse, but they drop the numpad or squeeze some keys together.
Power source. Some keyboards run on replaceable AAA or AA batteries, while others have a built-in rechargeable battery, and a few can be charged by USB or solar. Replaceable cells can be swapped in seconds, whereas a rechargeable battery saves buying cells but needs charging. Check the stated battery life if the keyboard has backlighting, because that usually shortens it.
Typing feel and environment. Quiet membrane keys suit shared offices. Mechanical switches give a firmer, more distinct keystroke, which some people prefer for long typing sessions. Models for medical settings are built for frequent cleaning. A few keyboards include a touchpad or pointing stick, which helps if the keyboard is used from a sofa or with a media PC.
Wireless keyboard brands we carry
- Logitech: the largest share of our range, known for slim multi-device keyboards such as the MX Keys series that pair with several computers and tablets.
- Cherry: a German manufacturer best known for its MX mechanical key switches, and also a maker of quiet, practical office keyboards.
- Dell, HP and Lenovo: PC makers whose keyboards are designed to sit alongside their own desktops and laptops. Lenovo is also known for the TrackPoint pointing stick on its ThinkPad keyboards.
- Satechi: makes slim aluminium Bluetooth keyboards with a layout and styling aimed at Mac and iPad users.
- Active Key: specialises in keyboards for medical and industrial settings, where surfaces must be wiped down often.
Also in our range: Hama, Trust, ASUS and Gembird.
Wireless keyboard FAQ
Is a Bluetooth keyboard better than one with a USB receiver?
Neither is better in every case. Bluetooth works with laptops, tablets and many phones without using a USB port. A USB receiver is simpler on a desktop PC and does not depend on Bluetooth support. Keyboards with both let you use whichever suits the device.
Do I need a full-size wireless keyboard?
You need a full-size keyboard if you use the numeric keypad regularly, for example for accounting or data entry. If you rarely type numbers, a 75%, tenkeyless or mini keyboard saves desk space and is easier to carry. Just check that the arrow keys and function keys you use are still included.
Will a wireless keyboard work with my laptop, tablet or phone?
A Bluetooth keyboard will work with most laptops, tablets and phones that have Bluetooth, though some layouts and shortcuts are designed for Windows, macOS or iPadOS. A keyboard that relies only on a USB receiver needs a free USB port on the device. Check the listed compatibility before buying.
Are AAA batteries or a built-in battery better for a wireless keyboard?
It depends on how you prefer to maintain it. AAA or AA batteries can be replaced on the spot, so the keyboard is never out of action while it charges. A built-in battery avoids buying cells and is often found on slimmer models, but you need to charge it through a cable or, on some models, with solar power.
