7 Best Keyboards for Programming: Top Picks

Programming as a typing intensive task, requires a keyboard that can keep up with the user’s continuous finger punches. 

A good programming keyboard should be comfortable to type on, have a high level of responsiveness, and be durable enough to withstand long hours of use. 

In this article, we will discuss the seven best keyboards for programming, their features, pros, cons, and prices.

What to Consider When Buying a Good Programming Keyboard

Before we dive into the best keyboards for programming, let’s take a look at some factors to consider when buying a good programming keyboard:

1. Switch Type: The switch type determines the feel and sound of the keyboard. There are three types of switches: mechanical, membrane, and scissor. Mechanical switches are the most popular among programmers due to their tactile feedback and durability.
2. Ergonomics: A keyboard with an ergonomic design can help reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries. Look for a keyboard with a comfortable wrist rest and adjustable height.
3. Connectivity: Wired keyboards offer a more stable connection, while wireless keyboards provide more flexibility. Choose the one that suits your needs.
4. Programmable Keys: Some keyboards come with programmable keys that allow you to customize the keyboard to your liking.
5. Backlighting: Backlit keyboards are ideal for programmers who work in low-light environments.

Now that we know what to look for in a programming keyboard, let’s take a look at the seven best keyboards for programming.

1. Das Keyboard 4 Professional

The Das Keyboard 4 Professional is a mechanical keyboard that is designed for programmers. It features Cherry MX Brown switches that provide a tactile feel and a soft-click sound. 

The keyboard has a built-in USB hub, media controls, and a volume knob. The Das Keyboard 4 Professional is available for purchase on Amazon for $169.

 

Specifications:

• Switch Type: Cherry MX Brown
• Ergonomics: N-Key Rollover
• Connectivity: Wired
• Programmable Keys: Yes
• Backlighting: Yes

Pros:

• High-quality construction
• Comfortable to type on
• Programmable keys
• Backlit keys

Cons:

• Expensive
• No wireless option

2. Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum

The Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum is a mechanical keyboard that is designed for gaming but is also suitable for programming. 

It features Romer-G switches that provide a tactile feel and a short actuation distance. The keyboard has customizable RGB lighting and media controls. 

The Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum is available for purchase on Amazon for $129.

Specifications:

• Switch Type: Romer-G
• Ergonomics: N-Key Rollover
• Connectivity: Wired
• Programmable Keys: Yes
• Backlighting: Yes

Pros:

• High-quality construction
• Comfortable typing on
• Customizable RGB lighting
• Programmable keys

Cons:

• No wireless option

3. Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard

The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard is an ergonomic keyboard that is designed to reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries.

It features a split keyboard design and a cushioned palm rest. The keyboard has a wireless connection and a battery life of up to 12 months. 

The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard is available for purchase on Amazon for $79.

Specifications:

• Switch Type: Membrane
• Ergonomics: Split keyboard design
• Connectivity: Wireless
• Programmable Keys: No
• Backlighting: No

Pros:

• Ergonomic design
• Wireless connection
• Long battery life

Cons:

• Membrane switches may not be suitable for all users
• No programmable keys

4. Kinesis Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard

The Kinesis Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard is an ergonomic keyboard that features a split keyboard design and a cushioned palm rest.

The keyboard has a wireless connection and a battery life of up to 6 months. The Kinesis Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard is available for purchase on Amazon for $99.

Specifications:

• Switch Type: Membrane
• Ergonomics: Split keyboard design
• Connectivity: Wireless
• Programmable Keys: No

• Backlighting: No

Pros:

• Ergonomic design
• Wireless connection
• Long battery life

Cons:

• Membrane switches may not be suitable for all users
• No programmable keys

5. Matias Ergo Pro Keyboard

The Matias Ergo Pro Keyboard is an ergonomic keyboard that features a split keyboard design and a cushioned palm rest. 

It has mechanical switches that provide a tactile feel and a soft-click sound. The keyboard has a wired connection and is available for purchase on Amazon for $220.

Specifications:

• Switch Type: Matias Quiet Click
• Ergonomics: Split keyboard design
• Connectivity: Wired
• Programmable Keys: Yes
• Backlighting: No

Pros:

• Ergonomic design
• Mechanical switches
• Programmable keys

Cons:

• Expensive
• No wireless option

6. Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2

The Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2 is a compact keyboard that is designed for programmers. 

It features Topre switches that provide a tactile feel. The keyboard has a wired connection and is available for purchase on Amazon for $329.

Specifications:

• Switch Type: Topre
• Ergonomics: N-Key Rollover
• Connectivity: Wired
• Programmable Keys: No
• Backlighting: No

Pros:

• High-quality construction
• Compact design
• Topre switches

Cons:

• Expensive
• No programmable keys

7. Vortexgear Pok3r Mechanical Keyboard

The Vortexgear Pok3r Mechanical Keyboard is a compact keyboard that is designed for programmers. 

The keyboard has a wired connection and is available for purchase on Amazon for $139.

Specifications:

• Switch Type: Cherry MX
• Ergonomics: N-Key Rollover
• Connectivity: Wired
• Programmable Keys: Yes
• Backlighting: Yes

Pros:

• Compact design
• Cherry MX switches
• Programmable keys
• Backlit keys

Cons:

• No wireless option

Final Thoughts on Best Keyboard for Programming

The seven keyboards we have discussed in this article are all excellent choices for programmers. 

Whether you prefer a mechanical keyboard or an ergonomic keyboard, there is a keyboard on this list that will suit your needs.

So, go ahead and choose the one that suits you best and take your programming to the next level.