6 Best Keyboards for Programming & Buying Guide in 2025

Are you on the quest for the best keyboards for programming? Whether you’re a professional coder, an avid gamer, or someone who spends a lot of time typing, a high-quality keyboard can significantly enhance your experience.

We’ve invested time in our lab testing various models to determine the absolute best keyboards for programming and gaming, as well as for programming and typing.

This guide reveals our top Six choices, each tried, tested, and trusted by our team. So, if you’re wondering, “what are the best keyboards for programming?” you’re about to discover the answer.

These aren’t just keyboards; they’re your companions for a comfortable and efficient coding journey. Stay with us as we dive into the intricate world of programming keyboards designed with you in mind.

What are the Best Keyboards for Programming?

1.Keychron Q2 Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard

Best Keyboards for Programming
Image Credit: Keychron

Brand: Keychron | Compatible Devices: Laptop, PC, Mac | Connectivity Technology: USB-C | Keyboard Description: Gaming | Special Feature: QMK/VIA, Fully Customizable, Full Aluminum, Hot-swappable | Color: Hot-swap Gateron G Pro Brown Switch | Operating System: Linux, Mac, Windows | Number of Keys: 66 | Keyboard backlighting color support: RGB | Style: Hot-swap Gateron G Pro Brown

When it comes to the best keyboards for programming, the Keychron Q2 Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard stands out with its 65% compact layout and customizable features. This version boasts an integrated knob, enhancing its functional versatility for programming and gaming. Its compact, full aluminum frame adds to its aesthetic appeal and contributes to its durability, ensuring a premium typing comfort that lasts.

One of the most remarkable features of the Q2 is its full customization. Whether you’re into programming or gaming, the all-around customizable keyboard with QMK and VIA support lets you program and remap each key according to your preferences. This open-source firmware allows infinite possibilities for keyboard layouts, shortcuts, and backlight effects, tailored to your needs.

Moreover, the hot-swappable support that comes with the Gateron G Pro mechanical tactile brown switch ensures unrivaled tactile responsiveness. This, coupled with the ability to hot-swap with almost all 3-pin and 5-pin MX mechanical switches, boosts its adaptability and user-friendly appeal. The keyboard’s innovative double gasket and silicone pads significantly reduce sound resonance, providing a quieter typing experience.

The Keychron Q2 excels in its backlighting and keycap design too. The south-facing RGB backlighting illuminates the keyboard from the typist’s angle, complementing the non-shine-through PBT keycaps. These keycaps provide excellent oil resistance and durability, maintaining the longevity of the legends.

Pros:

  • Compact and durable full aluminum frame.
  • Fully customizable with QMK and VIA support.
  • Hot-swappable support with the Gateron G Pro mechanical tactile brown switch.
  • Innovative double gasket and silicone pads for quieter typing.
  • South-facing RGB backlighting and durable PBT keycaps.

Cons:

  • It can be overwhelming for beginners.
  • Higher price point compared to other models.

Conclusion:

However, despite the host of impressive features, the Keychron Q2 has its downsides. It could be overwhelming for beginners due to its full customization options. Additionally, the keyboard’s price might deter budget-conscious buyers.

2.Corsair Wired K100 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Best Keyboards for Programming
Image Credit: Corsair

Brand: Corsair | Compatible Devices: Gaming Console | Connectivity Technology: Wired | Keyboard Description: Mechanical, Gaming | Special Feature: Lighting | Color: Silver | Operating System: Mac OS X 10.15 or newer, Windows 10 | Number of Keys: 110 | Keyboard backlighting color support: RGB | Style: K100

The Corsair Wired K100 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard deserves mention for its seamless blend of style, performance, and durability when discussing the best keyboards for programming and gaming. This keyboard, armed with CHERRY MX SPEED RGB Silver Keyswitches, distinguishes itself as the epitome of Corsair keyboards, designed for those striving for excellence in their gaming or programming endeavors.

The Corsair K100 RGB is constructed with a sturdy aluminum frame, promising longevity. Its dynamic per-key RGB backlighting and a 44-zone three-sided LightEdge not only uplift the aesthetics but also enhance the usability in various lighting conditions. But what sets it apart is the Corsair AXON Hyper-Processing Technology. This advanced feature empowers the keyboard to deliver up to 4x faster throughput with 4,000Hz hyper-polling and 4,000Hz key scanning, a massive leap from traditional models.

Another standout feature is the programmable iCUE control wheel. Through the Corsair iCUE software, you can manage backlighting, media jogging, and more, and even customize the control wheel to perform specific actions in games and applications.

Pros:

  • Sturdy aluminum frame for extended durability.
  • Dynamic per-key RGB backlighting and 44-zone three-sided LightEdge.
  • 4x faster throughput with AXON Hyper-Processing Technology.
  • Programmable iCUE control wheel for customizable control.
  • CHERRY MX SPEED RGB Silver Keyswitches offer fast, precise key responses.

Cons:

  • Higher price points due to premium features.
  • Not ideal for those seeking compact keyboards due to its 110 keys.

Conclusion:

While the Corsair K100 RGB is packed with impressive features, there are a couple of points to note. Its premium features come at a premium price, which might be outside everyone’s budget. Additionally, with 110 keys, its size may be better for those seeking a compact keyboard.

3.Redragon K556 RGB LED Backlit Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Best Keyboards for Programming
Image Credit: Redragon

Brand: Redragon | Compatible Devices: Gaming Console | Connectivity Technology: USB | Keyboard Description: 104 Keys Wired Aluminum Hot-Swap Gaming Keyboard | Special Feature: Aluminum Alloy Board, Software Supported, Noise Absorb Foams, Hot Swappable | Color: Brown Switch | Operating System: PC/Mac/Linux/Unix | Number of Keys: 104 | Keyboard backlighting color support: RGB | Style: Modern

The Redragon K556 RGB LED Backlit Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a compelling option for the best programming and gaming keyboards. With 104 keys featuring hot-swap functionality, this keyboard offers a satisfying tactile typing experience courtesy of its Mechanical Brown Switches. These switches strike the perfect balance between audible feedback and quiet operation, making them well-suited for various environments, from offices to intense gaming sessions.

The Redragon K556 stands out with its 18 Backlit Modes, enhancing your keyboard’s aesthetics and usability in dim light. The Pro-gamer mode, accessible through a combination of FN + INS-PgDn, adds a unique touch to your gaming rig. What’s more, it’s designed with sturdy full metal material and a matte-finish texture, making it resilient to scratches and wear.

Noteworthy is the self-design & removable keycaps feature. The custom-designed, shorter keycap speeds up action registration, optimizing your typing or gaming performance. In addition, the keyboard comes with a keycap puller for easy cleaning or replacement.

Pros:

  • Mechanical Brown Switches for a satisfying tactile typing experience.
  • 18 adjustable RGB LED Backlit Modes for customized lighting.
  • Durable design with full metal material and matte-finish texture.
  • Self-designed and removable keycaps for enhanced typing speed.
  • Wide compatibility across various operating systems.

Cons:

  • Heavier weight due to the full metal construction.
  • Extensive backlight options might need to be clarified for some.

Conclusion:

Despite the myriad of beneficial features, a couple of aspects must be considered. While the keyboard offers a solid build, it’s relatively heavy compared to some competitors. Additionally, the wide variety of backlight options might be confusing for some users.

4.Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Best Keyboards for Programming
Image Credit: Logitech

Brand: Logitech G | Compatible Devices: Gaming Console | Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth | Keyboard Description: Gaming | Recommended Uses For Product: Business | Special Feature: Lighting | Color: Black | Number of Keys: 90 | Keyboard backlighting color support: RGB | Style: G Pro Keyboard

The Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a contender when discussing the best keyboards for programming and gaming. This keyboard, designed with esports athletes in mind, prioritizes competition-level performance, speed, and precision, ensuring you’re equipped for the most demanding programming or gaming sessions.

Equipped with durable GX Blue Click switches, the Logitech G PRO provides a solid, secure keypress that produces audible and tactile feedback. This keyboard stands out because of its ultra-portable compact tenkeyless design, making it a perfect companion for tournaments or mobile workstations. The design frees up valuable desk space for unrestricted mouse movement.

The keyboard also boasts the innovative LIGHTSYNC feature, allowing you to highlight keys and program static lighting patterns to onboard memory, a useful feature for tournament systems that don’t allow G HUB installations. An added convenience is the detachable Micro USB cables featuring a three-pronged design, ensuring secure connection and easy transport.

Pros:

  • Designed for esports athletes, ensuring competition-level performance.
  • Durable GX Blue Click switches for a secure keypress.
  • Ultra-portable compact tenkeyless design for ease of transport.
  • LIGHTSYNC feature for customizable key highlighting and lighting patterns.
  • Detachable Micro USB cables for secure connection and portability.

Cons:

  • GX Blue switches might be loud for some users.
  • Requires Logitech G HUB software for full features.

Conclusion:

Though a strong performer, the Logitech G PRO has a couple of considerations. First, the audible click of the GX Blue switches may be loud for some preferences. Additionally, the keyboard requires Logitech G HUB software for programming keys and lighting.

5.Logitech G815 LIGHTSYNC RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Best Keyboards for Programming
Image Credit: Logitech

Brand: Logitech G | Compatible Devices: Gaming Console | Connectivity Technology: USB, USB 2.0 | Keyboard Description: Mechanical, Gaming | Color: Black | Number of Keys: 104
Keyboard backlighting color support: RGB | Style: Wired | Item Dimensions: 18.7 x 5.9 x 0.87 inches | Material: Aluminum

The Logitech G815 LIGHTSYNC RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is an excellent choice for those searching for the best programming, gaming, and typing keyboards. This keyboard marries functionality and aesthetics, offering low-profile mechanical switches that give the precision of a mechanical switch at half the height. The GL Tactile switch version provides a discernible bump at the point of actuation, delivering tactile feedback that programmers and gamers will appreciate.

One unique feature of the G815 is the Lightsync technology, offering next-gen RGB lighting that syncs with any content. This can be customized for each key or with animations from a palette of 16.8M colors via the Logitech G Hub software. Moreover, the G815 boasts a sturdy design thanks to the use of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, offering an incredibly thin yet rigid and durable keyboard.

The G815 has five dedicated G-keys that can be programmed with custom macros and commands, a feature especially useful for gaming. However, this requires the use of the Logitech G Hub. Another noteworthy feature is the dedicated media controls, including a precision-engineered, edgeless volume wheel for quick and easy control of your media.

Pros:

  • Low-profile mechanical switches for precision and comfort.
  • Customizable Lightsync RGB lighting technology.
  • Sturdy design with aircraft-grade aluminum alloy.
  • Five programmable G-keys for the game or app-specific commands.
  • Dedicated media controls for easy access.

Cons:

  • Low-profile keys require an adjustment period.
  • Requires Logitech G Hub software for full customization.

Conclusion:

The low-profile keys may take some getting used to for those accustomed to traditional keyboard designs. Additionally, the Logitech G Hub software is necessary to make full use of its features.

6.Logitech G 213 Prodigy Gaming Keyboard

Best Keyboards for Programming
Image Credit: Logitech

Brand: Logitech G | Compatible Devices: PC | Connectivity Technology: Wired, USB | Keyboard Description: Gaming | Recommended Uses: Gaming | Special Feature: Lighting | Color: Black | Operating System: Windows 10 & 11 | Number of Keys: 104 | Keyboard backlighting color support: Single Color

Logitech’s G213 Prodigy Gaming Keyboard positions itself as one of the best programming, gaming, and typing keyboards. It brings a fascinating blend of style, performance, and durability, engineered to serve both gamers and programmers with precision and comfort.
The G213 boasts an appealing spectrum illumination feature, allowing users to personalize five individual lighting zones from over 16.8 million colors. These colors can be adjusted to match your setup and specific games or showcase your favorite hues, bringing a unique personal touch to your typing experience.

Built for gaming and productivity, the G213 Prodigy is a full-sized keyboard with a slim, durable body. It’s designed to repel liquids, crumbs, and dirt for effortless cleanup, which is a handy feature when those long programming or gaming sessions lead to snacking at the desk. Its integrated palm rest and adjustable feet ensure comfort even during extended use.

Performance-wise, the G213 shines with keys specifically built for the way gamers and programmers work. It provides ultra-quick, responsive feedback that’s up to 4 times faster than standard keyboards, thanks to its multi-key input feature. However, it needs to improve with its single-color backlighting, limiting customization options compared to its RGB counterparts.

Pros:

  • Personalizable spectrum illumination for enhanced user experience.
  • A full-sized, durable design ideal for gaming and productivity.
  • Keys built specifically for enhanced tactile experience.
  • Integrated palm rest and adjustable feet for added comfort.
  • Dedicated media controls for convenient access.

Cons:

  • Limited to single-color backlighting.
  • Requires Logitech Gaming Software for full customization.

Buying Guide About Best Keyboards for Programming

There are several factors to consider when looking for the best keyboards for programming. Not all keyboards are made equal, and some offer features that may significantly improve your programming experience. This buying guide is designed to help you navigate through the vast array of choices and find the best keyboards for programming, gaming, and typing.

Key Switches:

This factor is vital as it defines the feel and responsiveness of the keys. Mechanical switches are typically the best for programming due to their tactile feedback. Brown switches are usually preferred to balance typing feel and noise level.

Keyboard Layout:

This is mostly a personal preference, but it greatly influences your productivity. Full-sized keyboards come with a number pad which is handy if you frequently work with numbers. On the other hand, tenkeyless or compact keyboards save desk space and promote a more ergonomic hand position.

Backlighting:

Backlit keys are handy, especially if you often work in low-light conditions. RGB lighting allows you to customize the color scheme, which can add a bit of personality to your setup. However, some may prefer single-color backlighting for a more professional look.

Build Quality:

The durability of the keyboard is a major factor to consider. Keyboards with aluminum frames or high-quality plastic are typically more durable. Spill-resistant keyboards can also be a lifesaver if you enjoy beverages while coding.

Programmable Keys:

Many keyboards offer programmable keys, which can be customized to perform specific functions. This can be a huge time-saver, making these keyboards some of the best for programming and gaming alike.

Connectivity:

Wired keyboards are generally more reliable with no latency issues, but if clutter is a concern, there are wireless options that perform just as well. It’s also essential to consider the keyboard’s compatibility with your operating system.
Now, with a better understanding of what to look for, you can find the best keyboards for programming and typing suited to your personal needs and preferences. Remember to weigh each factor based on your individual needs, as the “best” keyboard varies greatly from person to person. Happy programming!

Frequently Asked Questions for Best Keyboards for Programming

What makes a keyboard one of the best keyboards for programming?

A: A great programming keyboard should have excellent build quality, comfortable key switches, and, ideally, programmable keys. The best keyboards for programming provide a balance between performance and comfort, as programming often requires long hours of typing. Backlighting and connectivity options are also factors to consider.

Can gaming keyboards be used for programming?

A: Absolutely. Many of the best keyboards for programming and gaming are interchangeable because they often share features like mechanical switches and programmable keys. Gaming keyboards, especially those with macro keys, can be beneficial for repetitive coding tasks.

Why are mechanical keyboards often recommended for programming?

A: Mechanical keyboards are favored due to their key switches, which provide tactile feedback and a satisfying typing experience. They can increase typing speed and accuracy, which is crucial for coding tasks, making them among the best keyboards for programming and typing.

How important are programmable keys in the best keyboards for programming?

A: Programmable keys allow you to assign specific functions or macros, which can greatly speed up your workflow by reducing the amount of repetitive typing. While only essential for some, many programmers find them extremely helpful.

Are there wireless options among the best keyboards for programming?

A: Yes, there are high-quality wireless keyboards suitable for programming. They offer the convenience of mobility and less clutter. However, it’s important to consider battery life and ensure no latency might interrupt your work.

Conclusion:

Finding the best keyboards for programming is a blend of personal preference and key features such as mechanical switches, programmability, and comfort.

Whether you’re leaning towards the best keyboards for programming and gaming or those specifically designed for typing, the goal is to boost your productivity and comfort during long coding sessions.
Remember, the ideal keyboard for programming is the one that best suits your needs and working style.

Spread the love

Leave a Comment