How to select the right computer keyboard for your needs

How to select the right computer keyboard for your needs and budget

Of all the components of your computer system, your computer keyboard is the piece that most frequently needs replacement. When you go shopping for a new keyboard, it's best to go to a large office supply which carries computers and components. You'll find that there's perhaps a dozen or more to choose from, with prices ranging from as little as $10 to $150 or more. So how do you determine which computer keyboard meets your needs as well as your budget? What's the difference between the cheap basic unit versus the pricey keyboard? Here we provide some guidelines on choosing a keyboard which suits your purpose and wallet.

If you don't spend a lot of time at your computer and don't have a medical condition such as Carpal Tunnel syndrome, which makes the ergonomic keyboard a necessity for comfort's sake, that cheap $10 computer keyboard may be your best bet. I've bought several of these cheap keyboards over a period of years and found that they generally perform well for at least a year. The only drawback (as with any keyboard) is that when they give up the ghost, it's without warning. However, at that price, it's easy enough to buy two, with the second as a backup. That strategy gives you uninterrupted service, so you're not caught at midnight in the middle of typing an important, time sensitive document with a dead keyboard.

Now, let's take a look at the pricier computer keyboards, with all the bells and whistles you could imagine, with sleek designs, lighted keyboards and faux stainless steel detailing. Are they worth the price? Perhaps.

If the intended user is a youngster, the cheap unit is probably the way to go. A spilled soda or a bit of peanut butter, finding it's way on to the keyboard, does nothing to add to the life of this component, so the fancy and expensive keyboard will be just as dead as the cheap model, but not so easily replaced.

On the other hand, if you're a pro who gives that computer keyboard a heavy, daily workout, the pricey unit may be worth the investment. Some of the features may allow you to work faster and provide more efficient use. It's also likely that the more expensive model is of sturdier construction and will undoubtedly last longer than the $10 model. However, you've got to understand that some of the additional features are purely cosmetic, while other features are essentially unnecessary to your needs.

Before you make your selection, check the 'features card' which is displayed above each model to see what each unit has that another, cheaper unit does not. Some of the descriptions may entail a long list of features, many of which you don't even understand. When you've narrowed your choices, ask a sales person to explain the benefits of those features. Don't let the sales person talk you into purchasing an expensive computer keyboard with 'features' you really don't need.

In any case, if you should decide that expensive computer keyboard is what you need, it's always a good idea to buy one of those $10 models as an emergency backup, so you don't find yourself in that midnight panic, not knowing how you're going to finish that presentation or essay due at 9:00am! Let your common sense prevail!