Choosing the right keyboard for coding is more than just a matter of comfort; it's a gateway to peak programming productivity. Whether a buyer is a seasoned developer or a coding newbie, a keyboard can significantly impact efficiency and comfort during long coding sessions. This guide searches for the best keyboard for coders, focusing on features that make this painstaking profession less grueling.

Related
Best Laptops for Coding

Explore the best laptops for coding, designed to boost efficiency and enhance the programming experience.

Game ZXC often focuses on gaming keyboards, but only a select number of esports pros can make a living playing competitive FPS or MOBA titles. Coding is a natural career path for individuals who enjoy spending time on PCs, and having an adequate keyboard is essential. Ergonomics is a major concern for coders since repetitive strain injuries are more common among these individuals. Also, coders often demand customizable layouts and switch types that match their typing styles. Finally, the following keyboards exhibit superior build quality to ensure that they survive continuous typing.

Updated on April 30, 2024, by Adam Corsetti: The most recent revision of this buyer's guide includes a wireless keyboard that's more appropriate for complex coding tasks. A new winner with a build quality worthy of its high asking price can be found in the Premium Keyboard category. Also, throughout the article, there is more emphasis on ergonomics since every coder is at risk of joint strain and pain.

Game ZXC's Best Keyboards for Coding in 2024

The ASUS ROG Azoth Wireless features an exceptional blend of wireless technology and mechanical precision, making coding an absolute breeze. This keyboard also appeals to programmers who want to stay constantly informed, with an OLED screen providing notifications and critical system information. RGB backlighting adds a touch of personal style and highlights the ROG Azoth's compact tenkeyless design. The keyboard's ROG NX mechanical switches provide a satisfying tactile experience, enhancing accuracy and speed, which is why it's considered the best overall keyboard for coding.

Related
Best TKL Keyboard for Gaming in 2024

Finding the right TKL keyboard for gaming just got a lot easier with this handy guide.

However, some aspects of the ROG Azoth Wireless could be improved upon. The absence of a wrist rest might make prolonged coding sessions less comfortable. While it's slightly heavier, the keyboard's build quality and functionality more than compensate for these drawbacks. Its extensive battery life, especially without RGB, ensures that coding marathons can go uninterrupted.

For coders looking for a blend of style, functionality, and unmatched wireless performance, this 75% mechanical keyboard is a no-brainer purchase. Potential buyers can also discover how hot-swappable switches can empower programmers in Game ZXC's Asus ROG Azoth review.

Wireless keyboards allow coders to move around large workstations and switch between multiple monitors and devices easily. If a user works on a cross-platform project, the NuPhy Air75 V2 can be customized for commands specific to each OS. Also, this compact cord-free keyboard lasts weeks without recharging and has the build quality to withstand collisions on crowded desktops.

The NuPhy Air75 V2 isn't as slim as the Corsair K100 Air, but many buyers will prefer its more conventional low-profile mechanical switches. If coders are after quieter and more linear responses to keypresses, the Air75 V2 is available in a wide selection of alternative switches. Its hot-swappable PCB board makes it simple to change the typing feel on the fly. Regardless of switch choice, the keyboard is flat enough that most users won't need a wrist rest to avoid aches and pains.

Related
Best Keyboards for iPad for 2024

Explore Game ZXC's selection of the finest iPad keyboards for typing, gaming, and everyday use.

With a 75% form factor, the Air75 V2 includes the arrow and function keys that the smaller 60% RK Royal Kludge RK61 omits. In addition, if coders wish to change default commands, QMK/Via firmware compatibility provides customization potential far exceeding typical gaming keyboard apps. Gamers might initially find working with this open-source firmware strange, but it's possible to completely change how the keyboard works on any platform. Adding to its versatility, the Air75 V2 utilizes a low-latency wireless USB dongle or Bluetooth, with a physical switch to turn it into the perfect partner for a Mac gaming mouse.

A keyboard's build quality is particularly crucial for coders since they punish keyboards with furious typing. Fortunately, the Air75 V2 is one of the most solid compact keyboards on the market, reinforced with aluminum and surprisingly durable keys. Even though they are slim, the low-profile keycaps are Doubleshot PBT, meaning they resist fading. On the other hand, the keycaps are fairly flat without much separation, and fingers are more prone to slipping than those with a more concave design.

When a coder needs a portable keyboard without compromises, the highly customizable NuPhy Air75 V2 is up to the challenge. Thriving in complicated setups, the wireless Air75 V2 is the best keyboard for coders, regardless of a project's intended audience.

Mechanical keyboards come in more sizes than ever, including the slightly unusual 96% layout of the Glorious GMMK 2. Instead of shedding useful keys, the GMMK 2 reduces the space between keys and sacrifices media keys and LED indicators. The wired GMMK 2 also combines the best elements of gaming and productivity keyboards, making it more versatile than other keyboards for coding.

As it turns out, a four percent difference can significantly impact how compact a keyboard looks. The GMMK 2 is technically a full-sized keyboard, but observers will be fooled into thinking some keys must be missing. Space-saving aside, this GMMK 2 extensively uses RGB lighting emanating from below, on top, and on the sides of the durable PBT keycaps.

Considering its mid-range price among mechanical keyboards, the GMMK 2 offers much in the way of physical customization. Glorious provides the tools to switch out its Fox switches, emphasizing smooth typing. The manufacturer only offers one switch option, but buyers can build the keyboard from scratch on the Glorious website with various switches and keycaps. Some coders will also appreciate Glorious embracing QMK, which allows developers to install firmware on the GMMK 2 for custom macros, RGB effects, and more.

The software for Glorious mice and keyboards is a bit more barebones than some other gaming peripheral apps, but it allows for basic key remapping and RGB light profile toggling. Users will struggle to install it outside of Windows, but generous onboard memory makes using the keyboard in Linux and MacOS more feasible.

With an innovative form factor, the Glorious GMMK 2 has the style of a gaming keyboard with functionality that makes coding less time-consuming.

Coders with small desks or who lack an excess of funds usually struggle to find a customizable wireless mechanical keyboard. The Royal Kludge RK61 is far more affordable than competing 60 percent keyboards like the Corsair K70 Pro Mini, even though it's missing multi-colored RGB lighting. With a well-rounded choice of switches and a hot-swappable design, the RK61 is one of the most tempting values among all keyboards.

Although it has some drawbacks, the mini Royal Kludge RK61 provides coders plenty of space for large mousepads. The lack of arrow keys is the biggest obstacle for coders, but the manufacturer provides an extensive list of shortcuts using function keys. Royal Kludge has improved upon some quality control issues of the past, and the RK61 is a fairly well-built device. Royal Kludge selected ABS keycaps to save on some costs, but they sit above a choice of Blue, Brown, and Red mechanical switches with varying levels of tactile or clicking feedback. What's so rare on a wireless keyboard in this price range is to find a hot-swappable PCB board inside its casing to install custom switches.

Related
The Best Gaming Keyboards for Small Hands in 2024

Find the ultimate gaming keyboards for small hands in 2024. Discover how key size, ergonomic design, and customizability can make all the difference.

The Royal Kludge RK61 also packs impressive wireless connectivity into its small frame. Through Bluetooth 5.0, coders can connect to PCs or mobile phones with a mode for Mac computers as well. Royal Kludge also ships a USB RF dongle with the keyboard for lower latency. The blueish LED backlighting doesn't do much to hamper the generous 360-hour battery life of the keyboard.

Users constantly moving from workplaces to home offices won't find a more portable keyboard for coders than the RK61. Considering its high customization potential and tremendous battery life, the Royal Kludge RK61 offers more than any budget wireless keyboard at its asking price.

If a coder has the funds to step up from a budget keyboard, a sturdy mechanical keyboard like the Epomaker TH80 Pro is a tempting option. This wireless 75% keyboard takes customization to the next level with a vast selection of switches and is also ideal for buyers with multiple PCs.

The 75% form factor is perfect for coders trying to save desk space without losing functionality. Despite lacking a number pad, the TH80 Pro offers a full row of function keys plus page-up and page-down keys, which are critical for scrolling through lines of code. Users will also encounter a metal dial, which adds a touch of class to the keyboard and makes watching and listening to media more practical. The slightly curved keycaps adhere to the MDA profile, meaning they are the perfect low-profile height for extended and comfortable typing sessions. Buyers have a few style choices, but the TH80 Pro is primarily a lighter-colored keyboard with multi-colored keycaps.

Among wireless keyboards, the TH80 Pro stands out for its versatile connectivity and five to seven days of battery life. Coders can effortlessly convert the device from a Windows to a Mac keyboard without flicking switches. The TH80 Pro can also connect to multiple systems simultaneously through multi-point Bluetooth 5.0. While the keyboard doesn't have the lowest latency for gaming, the included 2.4 Ghz RF USB dongle provides the best responsiveness.

Related
Best Keyboards for iPad for 2024

Explore Game ZXC's selection of the finest iPad keyboards for typing, gaming, and everyday use.

The switch choices for the TH80 Pro will make a buyer's head spin, and it's also possible to install custom three or five-pin MX switches. Some highlights include Epomaker's Flamingo switches, which have a more linear feel, or Gateron Pro switches with a wide range of clickiness. The PBT keycaps above the switches are incredibly durable and are imprinted with clear and bold typing. Since RGB lighting is mainly visible on the bottom of the keys and not through clear keycaps, the keys have a more permanent appearance. However, the white color of the keyboard may not be enough to keep the non-illuminated letters and numbers visible in the darkest room.

Unconventional RGB lighting and incompatibility with custom QMK firmware aren't enough to tarnish this keyboard's value. An outstanding keyboard for coders, the TH80 Pro allows buyers to find the perfect individual typing experience.

The Lofree Flow may not look like a high-end keyboard at first glance since it has a compact 75% design and is void of gaming gear flair. However, its durability is unrivaled among portable keyboards, and owners will soon notice some unexpected luxurious touches. Just as unusual, the combination of low-profile mechanical switches and a gasket-mount design results in soft but satisfying typing.

As hard as some slim mechanical keyboards try, they still can't quite replicate the quiet typing of membrane keyboards. The reason is that mechanical switches don't usually have a cushioned socket underneath. However, the Lofree Flow manages to provide a level of softness that can make coding for long hours less unpleasant. At the same time, whether buyers select the Tactile, Linear, or Clicky version of the keyboard's Kailh switches, coders will experience more distinctive responses to keypresses. Unfortunately, unlike one of Flow's main competitors, the NuPhy Air75 V2, this hot-swappable keyboard has relatively few third-party compatible switches.

Related
Best Mice for Work in 2024

Discover how the right mouse can transform your workday in our expertly curated buyer's guide to the best mice for work.

Plenty of gaming keyboards utilize aluminum parts, but the metal tends to blend in with the black plastic on most models. With the Flow, silver aluminum covers the keyboard's edges, sides, and backside, making it appropriate for modern office settings. Buyers will also find different colored metal accents highlighting the Lofree logo and even its keyboard feet. Covering the keys is a refined version of Doubleshot PBT keycaps, and the legends appear even bolder and sharper than usual. Despite these heavy-duty materials, the Flow weighs only around 1.3 lbs, so the keyboard remains practical for traveling.

While the Flow is fantastic for coding or office tasks, its Bluetooth-only wireless connectivity falls short of some low-latency wireless RF protocols. Also, the RGB lighting on the keyboard is more about functionality, with illumination limited to the keyboard's sides and between keycaps.

Even if the Lofree Flow is less enticing to gamers, serious coders will find its pre-lubricated and cushioned switches refreshing. Game ZXC's review of the Flow found that it's the best keyboard for coders willing to make a serious investment, bolstered by top-tier build quality.

Keychron keyboards have long been a favorite of coders, with a durable, no-nonsense design for maximum productivity. The Q2 Pro utilizes a mini 65% form factor, which banishes number pads but still includes critical arrow keys. Not only does the Q2 Pro conserve space on a desktop, but its wireless Bluetooth connectivity keeps workspaces free of cords.

Related
The Best 60 Percent Keyboards for 2024

These 60% keyboards are an excellent option for gamers who want a compact and powerful gaming experience.

Coders flock to Keychrons because these devices can flourish on nearly any OS. A switch on the back of the keyboard enables a MacOS mode, but Linux programmers should also find the Q2 Pro practical. In addition to replaceable mechanical switches, QMK and VIA compatibility allow for a deeper level of button remapping that would scare novices but is second nature to coders.

The Keychron Q2 Pro does not target gamers, but its fast and responsive mechanical switches benefit competitive gaming. Still, with Bluetooth as its connectivity method, gamers may experience some added latency compared to high-speed RF. As far as appearances are concerned, while the Q2 Pro looks more like a professional keyboard, the RGB LED lighting emanating from the base of the keycaps adds some flair.

With the Q2 Pro, Keychron emphasized quieting pinging keypresses that can make long coding sessions unbearable. A dual gasket layout helps to absorb the constant pounding on its internal plate, which is flexible enough to reduce excessive clicking further. Even with a 65% layout, the Q2 Pro is not a lightweight keyboard and is built to withstand years of abuse.

The lack of media keys and a number pad may turn off some buyers, but with stellar build quality and customization, the Keychron Q2 Pro is among the elite keyboards for coding.

Coders who work in crowded office settings often struggle to find quiet, full-sized mechanical keyboards that live up to expectations. The Razer Pro Type Ultra offers some gaming features the manufacturer is celebrated for in a more understated form factor focused on productivity.

The wireless Pro Type Ultra aims to survive long hours of typing the average coder inflicts upon keyboards. The device feels like a premium keyboard, with a solid base and keycaps that resist wobbling. However, Razer chose ABS rather than Doubleshot PBT keycaps, which reject fingerprints but aren't quite as durable. On the positive side, ABS keycaps generally allow for clearer imprinting of letters and numbers while allowing the white LED lighting to shine through them.

Unlike many of Razer's mechanical keyboards, the Pro Type Ultra only ships with one type of switch. Still, the Razer Yellow Linear switches perfectly fit the theme of speedy, low actuation, and quiet typing. While the sound-dampening foam isn't thick enough to completely drown out pinging, co-workers won't suffer headaches after listening to the keyboard in action.

Macros are often essential to coders who repeatedly input the same code snippets. The Pro Type Ultra accommodates these users with programmable shortcuts to instantly load the many applications coders rely on. While the keyboard doesn't require software, Mac and Linux users will struggle to fine-tune lighting settings or adjust macros without a compatible Synapse app.

The icing on the cake for the Pro Type Ultra is its ergonomic qualities and wireless connectivity. With multiple levels of inclination and an unusually soft wrist rest, coders can find the perfect typing position to avoid aching joints. The Pro Type Ultra can connect to up to four systems through HyperSpeed RF or Bluetooth and toggle between them with function keys. Unsurprisingly, the Pro Type Ultra pairs perfectly with the ergonomically friendly Razer Pro Click mouse, which can share the same wireless dongle.

Related
The Best Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Duos for 2024

Gamers looking for a solid gaming keyboard-mouse duo don't need to look any further thanks to this list of the best keyboard-mouse duos.

A departure from Razer's gaming keyboards, the Pro Type Ultra streamlines its objectives in ways that benefit coders. Its carefully created linear switches allow time-sensitive projects to be completed efficiently without excess noise.

The Corsair K100 Air Wireless RGB Ultra, crowned as the top low-profile keyboard for coders, offers an exceptional blend of style, functionality, and comfort. Its ultra-slim 17 mm profile is aesthetically pleasing and conducive to maintaining a tidy workspace. The tri-mode connectivity, encompassing Slipstream, Bluetooth, and wired options, provides unmatched versatility, catering to various user preferences and setups. Its Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile Tactile switches are designed to ensure maximum typing comfort and efficiency, making it a favorite among coders who spend long hours at their keyboards.

While this Corsair gaming keyboard is appropriate for coding enthusiasts, its premium price point might deter budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, the full-size layout, while offering an extensive range of keys, may not be ideal for those with limited desk space. However, its remarkable features quickly overshadow these minor drawbacks, like compatibility with multiple platforms and its Axon Hyper-Processing technology, which delivers ultra-responsive input. Essentially, this keyboard is a valuable investment for coders seeking the pinnacle of typing experiences, reaffirming its status as the best high-end keyboard for coding.

Ergonomic keyboards appeal to coders, as the high volume of typing puts extra strain on their hands and wrists. To deal with these most demanding users, the Keychron Q8 has a split Alice layout with angled keys, so they are within easier reach. In addition, it's one of the heaviest and most well-constructed 65% keyboards in the industry, able to survive the most torturous coding sessions.

This version of the Keychron Q8 looks larger than the typical 65% keyboard because of the unused space between the two halves of the keys. The keyboard's styling is utilitarian except for the unconventional curve on its bottom edge to follow the contours of the Alice layout. Still, this basic appearance shouldn't fool buyers into thinking Keychon put little effort into crafting the device. Inside its thick CNC aluminum casing is a gasket-mounted design combined with noise-absorbing foam and acoustic tape to drown out the pinging of mechanical switches.

Related
Best Ergonomic Gaming Chairs in 2024

The best ergonomic gaming chairs can bring a finishing touch to a new PC gaming rig while preventing chronic neck and back pain.

When every keystroke matters, many coders are willing to put in the extra effort to make typing tasks more efficient. Although the Q8 already includes many common DIY tweaks, coders can swap its default Gateron G Pro switches with three or five-pin substitutes. During checkout on the Keychron website, buyers can choose a version with a multi-function knob and select stylish palm rests.

Despite its condensed layout, the Keychron Q8 is not a wired keyboard that coders will want to reposition on desks constantly. Checking in at four lbs, the keyboard's weight is a testament to how well its frame is reinforced. The Q8's wired connectivity is more flexible, including a switch to toggle between Windows and Mac modes. With the same QMK/Via firmware support of several other keyboards in this guide, coders can achieve higher customization with the Q8.

Even as a competitive gaming keyboard, the Q8 can help esports pros avoid the injuries they risk with repetitive finger and wrist movements. Also, the device's wired 1000 Hz polling rate is not groundbreaking, but it will ensure that all inputs register. Still, the Keychron Q8 is focused on productivity and is the best keyboard for coders when ergonomics is a priority.

Customizable keyboards are becoming more commonplace, but none quite measure up to the modular Mountain Everest Max. Coders often have very particular needs for a keyboard's typing feel and layout, which is where the Everest Max dominates the competition. Not only can buyers swap its mechanical switches for a variety of alternatives, but the keyboard also ships with several detachable components.

The number pad included with the Everest Max can be attached to the left or right side of this wired mechanical keyboard. Above the number keys are four modifiable shortcut keys that resemble buttons on the Elgato Stream Deck. Perhaps even more exciting is the media dock with an LED display that affixes to a USB-C port on the top of the Everest Max. Coders can monitor the CPU temps of their PCs or switch between button mapping and RGB lighting profiles.

Mountain offers an extensive selection of Cherry MX switches with the Everest Max. Still, coders will find it trivial to replace keycaps and the switches below them with components that provide a more linear or tactile response. When working on the Everest Max, users will also encounter sound-dampening foam, a typical DIY mod to reduce the clatter of mechanical switches.

Related
The Best Quiet Gaming Keyboards in 2024

Even though mechanical keyboards are all the rage, some players prefer to keep things peaceful with quieter keyboards.

Living up to its name, the Everest Max is as rock-solid as any mechanical keyboard. Aluminum and steel contribute to its heft, enabling the keyboard to thrive in crowded and chaotic coding setups. While circular feet allow users to adjust the incline of the Everest Max, its included wrist rest somewhat disappoints, lacking the comfort a buyer would expect from a high-end keyboard.

Besides price, the main stumbling block for the Everest Max is its cleverly named Base Camp software. The app allows for key remapping and selecting RGB lighting profiles but is often slow to load and lacks the sophistication of Razer Synapse or Corsair iCue.

Despite limitations with its software, the Everest Max's ingenious modular design overshadows all other customizable keyboards for coding.

The Logitech G915 TKL stands out as the best wireless keyboard for coding, blending high-end functionality with a sleek design and stunning RGB effects. Its Lightspeed wireless technology ensures ultra-responsive input, which is essential for coding and gaming. The keyboard's ability to switch between GL Tactile, Linear, or Clicky switches caters to different typing preferences, enhancing the coding experience.

RGB on keyboards and mice may not be a priority of coders, but it unleashes the creative streak that many of these talented programmers have. The G915 TKL is the ultimate canvas for inventing highly customizable lighting effects, and it's also one of the most durable mechanical keyboards.

While the Logitech G915 TKL is praised for its innovative features and premium feel, some users have expressed concerns about its light feature set and limited button remapping. Despite these considerations, the keyboard's reliable wireless connectivity and impressive 40-hour battery life make it a top recommendation for coders who value versatility and performance.

How to Choose the Best Keyboard for Coding

Best Keyboards for Programming

Finding the right keyboard for coding involves these factors that can profoundly affect efficiency and comfort:

Ergonomics

Many keyboards claim stellar ergonomics but differ little from the conventional full-sized keyboard layout. On the other hand, Keychron Q8 divides its keys between two halves at angles that better suit typical hand positioning. Low-profile keyboards like the Corsair K100 Air also keep wrists level without the added complication of palm rests. Over time, these design decisions can profoundly benefit coders who are constantly reaching for critical keys.

Switch Type

The type of switch on a keyboard plays a pivotal role in the coding experience. Tactile switches provide physical feedback on keypresses, helping accuracy, while linear switches offer a smoother, quieter typing experience. Choosing between them depends on personal preference and the environment in which a user codes. The most flexible keyboards, like the ASUS ROG Azoth Wireless, allow alternate switches to be installed for a more exact typing feel. For coders who prefer that manufacturers do most of the work, the 75% Epomaker TH80 Pro is sold with a generous selection of eight mechanical switches.

Form Factor

Keyboard layout and size can significantly impact coding productivity. Full-size keyboards, including the Razer Pro Type Ultra, offer a complete range of keys, including number pads, which can benefit specific programming tasks. At the same time, compact and ergonomic configurations can prevent injuries and improve comfort during long coding sessions. For example, the wireless 65% Keychron Q2 Pro provides the most essential keys a coder relies on without discarding useful arrow keys.

Customization

Programmable keys and customization options allow coders to tailor their keyboards to their specific needs. Setting up macros for repetitive tasks and customizing key functions can streamline coding tasks, leading to a more efficient and personalized coding environment. The Mountain Everest Max takes things further by allowing coders to attach number pads and media control modules. With the Glorious GMMK 2, coders can also develop firmware for customization outside gaming peripheral apps, which is made possible by QMK and VIA compatibility.

A smaller budget doesn't have to limit a keyboard's customization potential. Even the highly affordable wireless Royal Kludge RK61 encourages coders to replace its mechanical switches with alternatives to match a typing style.

Build Quality

With never-ending lines of characters to type, coders put unusual stress on keyboards. The most sensitive points on keyboards are their keycaps and the switches underneath. Besides being an excellent gaming keyboard with stunning RGB lighting, the Logitech G915 TKL can withstand any punishment with an aluminum alloy frame and Doubleshot PBT keycaps. Generally, coders will have to spend more on premium gear, but Lofree Flow rewards them with a metal casing that's long-lasting and attractive.

Game ZXC believes that the Asus ROG Azoth Wireless represents all the best qualities of a coding keyboard. Even if a buyer doesn't appreciate the powerful wireless connectivity of this 75% keyboard, any of the other candidates in this guide can become a coder's best companion.

More
The Best Mechanical Keyboards in 2024

Mechanical keyboards are now an essential part of any gaming setup. Among the endless choices, find the ideal mechanical keyboard for your rig.

FAQ

Q: Are mechanical keyboards better for coding?

Yes, mechanical keyboards are often preferred for coding due to their durability and the precise feedback they provide, which can improve typing accuracy and speed.

Q: Can I use a gaming keyboard for coding?

Absolutely, gaming keyboards with programmable keys and robust build quality can be excellent for coding, offering both versatility and comfort.

Q: Is a wireless keyboard good for coding?

Wireless keyboards can be great for coding, offering flexibility and a cleaner workspace, though one should consider battery life and connection stability.