The Best Wireless Keyboards for 2026

Wireless keyboards excel for decluttering, or for typing with your keyboard on your lap. (On-the-go productivity hounds swear by them, too.) And some models let you share one typing peripheral among several desktops and laptops at the press of a button. Most of the time, using a wireless keyboard and a standard wired one feels the same—except when it's time to charge it!—so we'll help you work through the nuances before you buy. PCMag has been testing and reviewing PC keyboards as long as there have been PCs, and our analysts evaluate each model on the basis of design, usability, durability, comfort, bundled software, battery scheme, and (that most important of considerations) value. Our extensive hands-on testing informs every review we publish. Our current best wireless keyboard for most users is the Razer Pro Type Ultra, but also check out our other top tested picks below, chosen for different scenarios and varying budgets.

Best Wireless Keyboard for Most Users

Razer Pro Type Ultra

Score: 4.5

Pros & Cons

• + Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wirelessControls up to four devicesExtremely comfortable for fast typingAs quiet as a mechanical keyboard getsBright backlightCushioned wrist rest

• - Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wirelessControls up to four devicesExtremely comfortable for fast typingAs quiet as a mechanical keyboard getsBright backlightCushioned wrist rest

Why We Picked It

Razer is best known for its gaming keyboards, so when it ventures across the aisle and brings its expertise to general-use keyboards, we can't help but pay attention. Although it might be a few years old, age hasn't slowed the Razer Pro Type Ultra down at all. Supremely responsive, comfortable, and customizable, the Ultra is a quiet mechanical keyboard that supports up to four wireless connections. It also features a bright backlight and a plush, comfortable wrist rest for long typing sessions. It's a little more expensive than you might expect, and is made with Windows in mind (sorry, Mac users), but overall it is one of the best wireless keyboards you can buy.

Who It's For

Gamers seeking a keyboard for both work and play:The Razer Pro Type Ultra is an excellent mechanical keyboard for getting work done, while also sharing many similarities with Razer's gaming keyboards.

Typers with tired wrists:A good wrist rest is an oft-forgotten accessory that immediately elevates any typing experience, and the Razer Pro Type Ultra's got one of the nicest.

People who prefer white computer accessories:Keyboards tend toward black and gray color schemes, so why not jazz up your desktop with an all-white keyboard?

Specs & Configurations

Number of Keys: 104

Interface: RF Wireless,Bluetooth

Key Switch Type: Razer Yellow (Low Volume Linear)

Key Backlighting: Single-Color

Media Controls : Shared With Other Keys

Dedicated Shortcut Keys: False

Onboard Profile Storage: False

N-Key Rollover Support: True

Passthrough Ports: None

Palm Rest: Detachable (Separate)

Best Budget Wireless Keyboard for Most Users

Dell Silent Keyboard and Mouse (KM555)

Score: 3.5

Pros & Cons

• + Low price for a wireless-input combo set

• + Surprising amount of customizable keys

• + Keyboard includes a Microsoft Copilot button

• + Near-silent operation

• - Low price for a wireless-input combo set

• - Surprising amount of customizable keys

• - Keyboard includes a Microsoft Copilot button

• - Near-silent operation

Why We Picked It

Most of us don't need a keyboard with every bell and whistle. Sometimes, we just need a keyboard that works, and the Dell Silent Keyboard (sold as part of the KM555 combo, which includes a mouse) does just that. Slim and quiet, Dell's keyboard is a solid daily driver for office productivity, delivering surprising functionality for the bucks, including customizable keys and a Copilot access button. Packaged with a mouse that's no slouch either, it's impressive and affordable. You will have to contend with the keyboard's gummy-feeling membrane switches, but overall, it's a worthwhile compromise to save some money.

Who It's For

Shoppers on a budget:The Dell Silent Keyboard and Mouse (KM555) is a capable keyboard-and-mouse set, and for under $50, it's an easy pick for anyone looking for an affordable option for basic computing.

Buyers looking for a combo deal:Decent keyboards and mice don't have to be expensive. The Dell Silent Keyboard alone earns our praise, but the inclusion of the mouse in this combo makes it even easier to recommend if you need both items.

Specs & Configurations

Number of Keys: 109

Interface: Bluetooth,2.4 GHz Wireless

Key Switch Type: Membrane

Key Backlighting: None

Media Controls : Shared With Other Keys

Dedicated Shortcut Keys: False

Onboard Profile Storage: False

N-Key Rollover Support: True

Passthrough Ports: None

Palm Rest: None

Best Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%

Score: 4.5

Pros & Cons

• + Immaculate typing feel

• + Hot-swappable key switches

• + Easy to pop open and tinker

• + Plush wrist rest

• + Gorgeous RGB lighting

• - Immaculate typing feel

• - Hot-swappable key switches

• - Easy to pop open and tinker

• - Plush wrist rest

• - Gorgeous RGB lighting

Why We Picked It

The Razer BlackWidow V4 75% is one of the best gaming keyboards Razer has ever released, and the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is even better. The Pro maintains a respectable 4,000Hz polling rate over a wireless connection, and it also adds an OLED screen. The hot-swappable switches also make a return, allowing users to customize their key switches to their liking. It's an ideal board for tinkerers, enthusiasts, and those looking to explore the world of keyboard customization. Outside of that, it's also an outstanding gaming keyboard, featuring an extremely comfortable typing feel and a plush wrist rest.

Who It's For

Hard-core keyboard tweakers:If you like to build your own keyboard or customize its insides to your liking, the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% offers a lot of options for you. Hot-swappable switches give you freedom to change out individual key mechanisms, and Razer Synapse offers a ton of software customization, too.

Brand-loyal gamers with money to burn:Razer gear has never been known for being cheap, but if you're looking for a premium gaming keyboard and you have the cash to spare, the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% will make you happy.

Specs & Configurations

Number of Keys: 81

Interface: USB Wired,Bluetooth,2.4 GHz Wireless

Key Switch Type: Razer Orange Tactile Mechanical Key Switch Gen-3

Key Backlighting: RGB Per-Key

Media Controls : Via integrated screen

Dedicated Shortcut Keys: True

Onboard Profile Storage: True

N-Key Rollover Support: True

Passthrough Ports: None

Palm Rest: Detachable (Magnetic)

Best Wireless Compact Gaming Keyboard

Keychron Q1 HE

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + Magnetic switches offer variable key-press detection levels

• + Machined aluminum frame

• + Hot-swappable switches

• + Available in two color schemes

• + Works with Windows and macOS

• - Magnetic switches offer variable key-press detection levels

• - Machined aluminum frame

• - Hot-swappable switches

• - Available in two color schemes

• - Works with Windows and macOS

Why We Picked It

The Keychron Q1 HE is a compact wireless keyboard with a solid, aluminum frame and impressive magnetic key switches that offer variable key-press detection levels. Compatible with Macs and Windows PCs, the keyboard is more than adequate for gaming, and it's also a pretty great hot-swappable keyboard if you're interested in customizing your key switches. It's pricey and not the most ergonomically friendly board, but it's a great wireless board we can't help but recommend.

Who It's For

Keyboard tinkerers:The Keychron Q1 HE is a hot-swappable keyboard, which means you can change the individual key switches to those of your liking.

People who use both macOS and Windows:Gaming keyboards aren't always OS-agnostic, but the Keychron Q1 HE is.

Specs & Configurations

Number of Keys: 81

Interface: Bluetooth,USB-C,2.4 GHz Wireless

Key Switch Type: Gateron Double-Rail Magnetic Nebula Switches

Key Backlighting: RGB Per-Key

Media Controls : Shared With Other Keys

Dedicated Shortcut Keys: False

Onboard Profile Storage: True

N-Key Rollover Support: True

Passthrough Ports: None

Palm Rest: None

Best Wireless Ergonomic Keyboard

Logitech Wave Keys

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + Simple and effective ergonomic design

• + Compatibility across multiple operating systems

• + Long battery life

• + Lightweight

• + Reasonably priced

• - Simple and effective ergonomic design

• - Compatibility across multiple operating systems

• - Long battery life

• - Lightweight

• - Reasonably priced

Why We Picked It

The Logitech Wave Keys offers most of what people want in an ergonomic keyboard: comfort, easy typing, and cost-effectiveness. The wave-like design and integrated wrist rest make it a comfortable daily driver for long typing sessions, while Logitech's Logi Options software keeps the keyboard packed with a range of functions. It's a little flimsy and requires AA batteries instead of a rechargeable one, but these compromises also keep the price down.

Who It's For

People who type a lot:The Logitech Wave Keys is perfect for long typing sessions, thanks to its undulating design and wrist rest.

Budget buyers:The Logitech Wave Keys is not just ergonomic, it's economic. It's easy to find for well under $100, in a world where some ergonomic boards run into the several-hundred-dollar range.

Specs & Configurations

Number of Keys: 99

Interface: Bluetooth,2.4 GHz Wireless

Key Switch Type: Rubber Membrane

Key Backlighting: None

Media Controls : None

Dedicated Shortcut Keys: True

Onboard Profile Storage: False

N-Key Rollover Support: True

Passthrough Ports: None

Palm Rest: Integrated

Best Low-Profile Wireless Keyboard

Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + Lightweight, eye-catching design

• + Comfortable, low-profile keys

• + Lots of customization options

• + Excellent wireless performance with Lightspeed dongle

• - Lightweight, eye-catching design

• - Comfortable, low-profile keys

• - Lots of customization options

• - Excellent wireless performance with Lightspeed dongle

Why We Picked It

When it comes to thin, compact gaming keyboards, few can compare to the Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL. While it lacks the Pro branding of the Logitech G Pro X TKL , it retains most of the pro-level goods, including Logitech's Lightspeed wireless connection technology. The G515 features quiet, low-profile key switches and an eye-catching design that's sure to stand out on your desk.

Who It's For

Gamers who prefer low-profile mechanical keyboards:The G515 Lightspeed TKL is a welcome alternative to the norm of full-height mechanical gaming keyboards that dominate the market.

Gamers with an eye for aesthetics:With its white-and-silver color scheme, the G515 certainly looks appealing wherever you place it.

Specs & Configurations

Number of Keys: 90

Interface: Bluetooth,USB-C,2.4 GHz Wireless

Key Switch Type: Logitech GL Tactile Switches

Key Backlighting: RGB Per-Key

Media Controls : Shared With Other Keys

Dedicated Shortcut Keys: False

Onboard Profile Storage: True

N-Key Rollover Support: True

Passthrough Ports: None

Palm Rest: None

Best Wireless Keyboard for Macs

Satechi SM3 Slim Mechanical Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + Stylish design

• + Excellent typing feel

• + Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connection options

• + Much cheaper than Apple Magic Keyboard

• - Stylish design

• - Excellent typing feel

• - Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connection options

• - Much cheaper than Apple Magic Keyboard

Why We Picked It

The Satechi SM3 Slim has nearly everything we want in a wireless mechanical productivity keyboard. It offers a comfortable typing feel, a long-lasting battery, a stylish design, and a price that's far more reasonable than the Apple Magic Keyboard. However, the main reason we recommend this one for Mac users is its plush typing experience. The keyboard is also versatile, offering USB-C, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz connections. It's also a fine choice for PC users who like the look.

Who It's For

Mac users fed up with the Magic Keyboard:If you're an Apple user and the magic has ended for you a long time ago, the Satechi is a spot-on alternative keyboard that matches the Mac aesthetic well.

People looking for form and function:The Satechi SM3 Slim looks good, but it's also supremely capable. It supports multiple Bluetooth connections, feels great to type on, and makes for an excellent office keyboard for basic tasks.

Specs & Configurations

Number of Keys: 108

Interface: USB-C,2.4 GHz Wireless,Bluetooth

Key Switch Type: Low Profile Brown Switches

Key Backlighting: Single-Color

Media Controls : Shared With Other Keys

Dedicated Shortcut Keys: True

Onboard Profile Storage: False

N-Key Rollover Support: True

Passthrough Ports: None

Palm Rest: None

Best Wireless Mobile Keyboard

Logitech POP Icon Keys

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + Quiet, reasonably comfortable low-profile key switches

• + 36-month battery life

• + Snazzy colors and design

• + Logi Options+ software is easy to use

• + Affordable

• - Quiet, reasonably comfortable low-profile key switches

• - 36-month battery life

• - Snazzy colors and design

• - Logi Options+ software is easy to use

• - Affordable

Why We Picked It

The Logitech POP Icon Keys is a simple, effective wireless keyboard that's perfect for on-the-go typing. It's a more traditional chiclet-style board than its predecessor , swapping clicky mechanical key switches for quieter, low-profile ones. It's quiet and reasonably comfortable, and its low-profile key switches should serve most situations. However, its beefy battery makes it an ideal companion for on-the-go computing.

Thanks to the Logi Options software, the keyboard is also quite a productivity powerhouse. Its reasonable price and snazzy color choices make it a suitable gift for younger people, too.

Who It's For

Kids: The Logitech POP Icon Keys is a thoughtful gift for younger family members who need a reliable keyboard.

People who like tech to match their personality: The POP Icon Keys is available in a few different colors, which should appeal to people who want to flex some personality through their peripherals.

Specs & Configurations

Number of Keys: 85

Interface: Bluetooth,2.4 GHz Wireless

Key Switch Type: Membrane

Key Backlighting: None

Media Controls : Shared With Other Keys

Dedicated Shortcut Keys: False

Onboard Profile Storage: False

N-Key Rollover Support: True

Passthrough Ports: None

Palm Rest: None

Best Wireless Mechanical Keyboard for DIY Tinkerers

Asus ROG Azoth

Score: 4.5

Pros & Cons

• + Highly compact footprint for the key count

• + Ultra-stable key switches with box stabilizers

• + Includes comprehensive starter tool kit for keyboard tweakers

• + OLED panel for adjusting media/volume or simple animations

• + Per-key RGB key backlighting

• + Hot-swappable

• - Highly compact footprint for the key count

• - Ultra-stable key switches with box stabilizers

• - Includes comprehensive starter tool kit for keyboard tweakers

• - OLED panel for adjusting media/volume or simple animations

• - Per-key RGB key backlighting

• - Hot-swappable

Why We Picked It

The Asus ROG Azoth is a weighty, rock-solid enthusiast gaming keyboard, featuring super-stable, satisfying key switches and a plethora of keycap and switch-tweaking tools. It's an excellent gaming keyboard out of the box, but the main appeal of this board lies in its high level of customization. You're encouraged to tinker with this hot-swappable board; in fact, it even includes a comprehensive starter kit for keyboard tweakers, which includes tools for lubrication and key replacement. It's a keyboard designed for individuals who want to customize their board exactly to their liking, and, backed by the quality Asus is known for, it largely succeeds.

Who It's For

Hard-core keyboard enthusiasts:Like the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, the Asus ROG Azoth is a best-in-class keyboard that caters to tinkerers seeking a solid foundation to build upon. Plus, it includes a set of basic tweaker's tools.

People looking for a premium keyboard:Even if you're not looking to rebuild your keyboard, the Asus ROG Azoth is a top-shelf gaming keyboard right out of the box, thanks to its immaculate typing feel, exceptional build quality, integrated OLED screen, and Asus SpeedNova wireless technology for low-latency wireless play. You don't have to change a thing about it to love it.

Specs & Configurations

Number of Keys: 81

Interface: USB-C,2.4 GHz Wireless,Bluetooth

Key Switch Type: Asus ROG NX Red

Key Backlighting: RGB Per-Key

Media Controls : Via integrated screen

Dedicated Shortcut Keys: False

Onboard Profile Storage: True

N-Key Rollover Support: True

Passthrough Ports: None

Palm Rest: None

Best Wireless Mechanical Keyboard for Build-to-Order Customization

Glorious GMMK 3

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + Near-infinite customizability

• + Attractive aesthetic options

• + Easy to open and tinker with

• - Near-infinite customizability

• - Attractive aesthetic options

• - Easy to open and tinker with

Why We Picked It

The Glorious GMMK 3 is an ultra-premium, customizable keyboard. Nearly every aspect of this board can be adjusted and built to order. Every component in the GMMK 3 can be selected to your liking, assembled at the factory for your convenience, and shipped out within a week of ordering. This is not an off-the-shelf buying process like the Asus ROG Azoth or Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%. Every unit, from frame to keys, gets tailored to the buyer's liking.

Who It's For

Shoppers seeking a customizable keyboard (but who don't want to customize it themselves):The GMMK 3's unique PCPartPicker-like configurator allows users to start from scratch, selecting one component at a time, or you can choose from a list of pre-configured models. Tweak as much, or as little, as you want.

Buyers who want a less costly customizable keyboard:Customizing the GMMK 3 can be an expensive endeavor— really expensive—but it can also be a reasonably priced one if you don't go overboard with the configuration. You can specify a really nice build for under $200.

Specs & Configurations

Number of Keys: 81

Interface: USB Wired,2.4 GHz Wireless,Bluetooth

Key Switch Type: GMMK Raptor Switches HE

Key Backlighting: RGB Per-Key

Media Controls : Shared With Other Keys

Dedicated Shortcut Keys: False

Onboard Profile Storage: False

N-Key Rollover Support: True

Passthrough Ports: None

Palm Rest: Optional

Best Wireless Productivity Bundle

ProtoArc XKM01 CaseUp

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + Fine overall value as a bundle (keyboard, mouse, laptop stand in a travel case)

• + Keyboard has full-size layout, with number pad and shortcut row

• + Dual connectivity (Bluetooth and 2.4GHz USB receiver)

• + Two-year warranty on hardware

• - Fine overall value as a bundle (keyboard, mouse, laptop stand in a travel case)

• - Keyboard has full-size layout, with number pad and shortcut row

• - Dual connectivity (Bluetooth and 2.4GHz USB receiver)

• - Two-year warranty on hardware

Why We Picked It

For travelers and remote workers seeking enhanced comfort beyond their laptop's built-in keyboard and touchpad, the ProtoArc XKM01 is a must. It offers screen elevation via a folding laptop stand, a full-size keyboard, and a wireless mouse, all packed into one handy, compact case. The keyboard has a full-size layout, with a number pad and shortcut row, while the mouse is slim and flat, providing accurate tracking under your fingers for general productivity tasks. It's a value considering the quality of both the keyboard and the mouse, and is a great way to bring reliable gear with you wherever work might take you.

Who It's For

Frequent travelers: With the ProtoArc XKM01, you can travel in style without sacrificing productivity. The compact case makes packing your keyboard and mouse a no-brainer.

People in the market for both a keyboard and a mouse: While the ProtoArc XKM01 is not the cheapest bundle you can buy, it's still one of the best bundles for those looking for a reliable productivity keyboard and mouse.

Specs & Configurations

Number of Buttons: 3

Interface: Bluetooth,2.4GHz Wireless

Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous

Sensor Maker and Model: Unspecified Optical Sensor

Sensor Maximum Resolution: 2400 dpi

Power Source: Internal Battery

Weight: 10.5 ounces

Warranty (Parts and Labor): 2 years

Number of Keys: 104

Key Switch Type: Scissor-Switch

Key Backlighting: None

Media Controls : Shared With Other Keys

Dedicated Shortcut Keys: True

Onboard Profile Storage: False

N-Key Rollover Support: False

Passthrough Ports: None

Palm Rest: None

Best Bluetooth-Only Wireless Keyboard

OnePlus Keyboard 81 Pro

Score: 4.5

Pros & Cons

• + Excellent typing experience

• + High-quality materials and exceptional heft

• + Hot-swappable keys

• + Unique key switches

• + Configurable Mac layout

• - Excellent typing experience

• - High-quality materials and exceptional heft

• - Hot-swappable keys

• - Unique key switches

• - Configurable Mac layout

Why We Picked It

OnePlus' entry into the PC keyboard market could've simply been a rebranded version of the fan-favorite Keychron Q1 Pro, but the Keyboard 81 Pro proved that it's much more than that. It's got a metal kickstand, a set of high-quality key switches, two different keycap options, and a sturdy chassis that's extraordinarily heavy and stable. There's real craftsmanship at work here, too. A discerning keyboard enthusiast can see it in the keyboard's ironclad build quality and attention to detail. It's customizable, aesthetically pleasing, and one of the best wireless keyboards around.

Who It's For

Users who value customization:The Keyboard 81 Pro is an aesthetically pleasing keyboard that's comfortable to type on right out of the box, but it is also customizable. Swap the key switches and the keycaps until you find the combination that looks and feels right to you.

Users who value simple wireless solutions:Sometimes you want a keyboard that "just works." While the Keyboard 81 Pro doesn't support 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, its Bluetooth connection is easy to set up, and switching between connected devices is a breeze whether you're working on a Mac or a PC.

Specs & Configurations

Number of Keys: 81

Interface: Bluetooth,USB Wired

Key Switch Type: Winter Bonfire

Key Backlighting: RGB Per-Key

Media Controls : Shared With Other Keys

Dedicated Shortcut Keys: True

Onboard Profile Storage: False

N-Key Rollover Support: True

Passthrough Ports: None

Palm Rest: None

Wireless keyboards (and wireless mice , too) use two primary technologies to connect to devices: Bluetooth, or a 2.4GHz radio-frequency (RF) connection. The latter connects to your device via a USB dongle; Bluetooth models assume your host computer supports Bluetooth, or you have your own Bluetooth dongle. Each connection type offers distinct advantages and disadvantages.

In modern keyboards, 2.4GHz RF offers a stable connection and, at times, a near-imperceptible amount of typing lag. No desktop or laptop has built-in support for these keyboards; you need that USB dongle. And because a USB dongle is an extra part, you can lose it if you often swap it between systems or carry your keyboard around. Some keyboards have a storage slot for their dongles, which is great, but it's still a tiny part you need to keep track of. The dongles are often keyed to the specific keyboard you own, so losing one can mean the keyboard is out of commission for good. Models that support a more forgiving RF dongle, like the ones with Logitech's Unifying technology, can work using a replacement dongle or another device's dongle. However, these are the exception, not the rule.

Bluetooth connections are reliable, but slightly more prone to lag and/or momentary connection loss, especially when you have many Bluetooth connections going on in one place (such as an office or a coffee shop). These issues do resolve themselves, and can often be fixed simply by re-establishing the connection if they don't, but they can be an annoyance. Bluetooth also tends to drain a keyboard's battery faster. On the plus side, though, devices with Bluetooth support can connect to phones, tablets, and other devices without a USB port.

The bottom line? It's nice to have both. The 2.4GHz RF kind is generally the better connection type, especially if you're planning on connecting to one stationary PC. Bluetooth adds a lot of versatility, though. Not only can you connect to more devices, but having it is a nice safety net if you forget or misplace the USB dongle. In keyboards made in the last two or three years, you're most likely to see keyboards with just a 2.4GHz connection, though there are a few Bluetooth-only options. Some keyboards support both connections. I would urge you, though, not to count out a keyboard just because it relies solely on Bluetooth, as you may not even notice a difference if you're using it at home.

In addition to 2.4GHz and Bluetooth, any good wireless keyboard lets you directly connect to a device using its charging cable. Without this option, there's always a chance that you'll forget to charge the keyboard or replace its batteries, and you may find yourself temporarily unable to use it. Models that rely on disposable AA or AAA batteries, though, likely don't have a USB connection option.

While it's by no means a deal breaker, connecting via USB Type-C at the keyboard end is generally better than a micro-USB connection, as USB-C is easier to plug in and the port may enable faster charging under some circumstances. What matters most, though, is that you have a cable option of some kind.

The Power Source: Wireless Keyboard Battery Life

Without a PC-connected cable to power it, every wireless keyboard, of course, needs a battery to run. Most wireless keyboards these days rely on built-in lithium-ion batteries you can recharge, though you do occasionally run into some that rely on good old AA or AAA cells.

While some keyboards that rely on the latter can get amazing battery life, a keyboard with an internal battery and a charging cable is more convenient, because you can usually plug in and use it while you recharge. There's nothing worse than realizing that your keyboard is out of power, so you can't use your PC until you run out to the store and pick up more batteries (or scrounge up some from a TV remote control).

So, how long should a wireless keyboard battery last? For an internal battery, most keyboards in the last two years get at least 20 hours of continuous use with their key backlighting on (if it has key backlighting, that is). Many manufacturers provide two battery-life estimates based on whether or not you use the backlighting, as it can reduce the time between charges by more than 50%. In our review testing, we find that 25 to 30 hours often translates to somewhere between one to two weeks of heavy daily use.

With removable AAs or AAAs, look for the estimated battery life to be measured in weeks or months, not days or hours. Even the cheapest battery-powered keyboards should get hundreds of hours of battery life from a set, especially if they do not have backlit keys.

Since LED backlighting heavily affects battery life, it's good to look for customization and controls to help you manage power. Any backlit keyboard lets you turn these lights on and off, but some offer extra options, such as brightness-level controls and the ability to automatically turn off the lights when the power gets low. Some configuration apps, like Corsair's iCue, offer more universal power-related controls and features, like controlling when the board goes to "sleep," and adding a system-level battery indicator.

Do You Need a Media-Centric Keyboard?

If you're looking for a wireless keyboard because you're setting up a media PC to hook up to your TV, keep in mind that there's a subset of wireless keyboards made specifically with this use case in mind. Entertainment keyboards, sometimes called "media center keyboards" or "lapboards," are all-in-one solutions made to work on your lap, rather than sit on a surface. Most are long, and some have larger-than-ordinary keys. Some models also have an underside surface contoured to rest on your lap. They also always have a touchpad or other mouse substitute to make input control more manageable, with no separate mouse required.

Most such boards are made for navigating web browsers and media players like Plex , or for PC gaming . Because they're designed for only occasional typing, they often don't make for the best general-use keyboards (though there are exceptions). Also note: These kinds of keyboards are much rarer nowadays than in years past. Corsair's K83, pictured above, is a recent archetype media keyboard, but it is now available only on the secondary market. The budget-priced Logitech K400 Plus has been around for many years and remains available, but is ripe for a challenger.

Buying a Wireless Keyboard: Essentials You Need to Know

Beyond connectivity and battery life, there's no difference between choosing a standard, wired keyboard and a wireless one, though you have a much smaller range of options.

KEY LAYOUT.Most wireless keyboards are full-size, meaning they have 104 keys or more, including a number pad. Many productivity-focused models use low-profile scissor-switch keys, similar to what you'd find in a laptop. This keeps their dimensions slim, making them more portable and helping to maintain the sleek, minimalist look popularized by Apple's Magic Keyboard. With that in mind, the best wireless keyboards don't overcommit to that aesthetic so much that the keys feel bunched together too closely. Mechanical keyboards tend to be wired models, more often than not, though there are exceptions.

Most mainstream and gaming models offer a 10-key numeric pad, which laptops frequently lack and is a necessity for anyone who needs to tally numbers or enter data into a spreadsheet. So-called "tenkeyless" models slice off the numeric pad in the interest of space savings and keeping your typing and mousing hands closer together. Bear that in mind if you're looking at gaming keyboards, as tenkeyless models are a recent trend, especially in that subclass. If you want to go even smaller, 60 percent keyboards eliminate even  more  keys. Check out our  60 percent keyboard guide  for everything you need to know about the category.

EXTRA FEATURES.Wireless keyboards generally come with some quality-of-life features, such as dedicated media and macro keys. A few, like Logitech's high-end keyboards, also allow users to connect to multiple devices and swap among them with a single button press. Gaming keyboards will come with the same suite of media and macro perks, and some include customizable RGB lighting and advanced configuration software.

There are also a few features you're unlikely to find. Though a few keyboards on our list come with a wrist rest, it's less likely that a wireless keyboard will include one. Also, without a wired connection, it would be impossible for a keyboard to offer USB passthrough ports on the body, so that's not something you'll find, either.

OTHER SWITCH TYPES.Among wireless keyboards, you'll spot the occasional model using membrane or mechanical key switches . Membrane keyboards actuate, triggering the signal that goes to your computer, by pushing down a rubber dome at the base of the key. Mechanical keyboards do the same via a physical switch with a spring or other tactile actuator. Relative to scissor switches, both types of keyboards provide more key-press travel, which leads to a more comfortable typing experience. Many people prefer the low action and light touch of scissor switches, though, so this ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Like standard keyboards, mechanical keyboards generally offer a better typing feel and better build quality than membrane-switch keyboards, but they are also considerably more expensive. The two major benefits of a wireless mechanical keyboard are its more decisive feedback and the longer travel, both of which allow for more confident typing. Also, if you like the clack a keyboard makes, mechanical keyboards make more noise and, according to some, a more appealing sound. At the moment, most, but not all, wireless mechanical keyboards are gaming-focused. (See our guide to mechanical keyboard switch types .)

Last, but not least, multiple companies offer wireless ergonomic keyboards, which use an alternative key-layout shape to minimize repetitive stress injuries in your hands, wrists, and arms. The wireless ergonomic keyboards we've seen employ a curved, unibody design that prevents you from twisting your wrist. They are, by and large, helpful if you experience wrist or arm pain when you type, though they can take some getting used to when you first switch to one from a standard keyboard.

Ready to Buy the Right Wireless Keyboard for You?

Now that you know what to look for in a good wireless keyboard, we've taken all the guesswork out of the equation and put together a list of the best ones we've reviewed. Whether you're planning to use the board for work, gaming, or just everyday computing, it isn't hard to cut the cord without compromises.

If you're looking for additional in-depth explanations on how to choose the right keyboard for you, check out our roundups of the  best keyboards , the  best mechanical keyboards , and the  best gaming keyboards.  All of these have wireless candidates mingling with the best of the wired models we've reviewed.

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