Types of Computer Keyboards and How I Choose the Best One for Daily Use and Gaming

Over the years, I realized that a keyboard is far more than a set of plastic keys wired to a computer. It is the main tool I use every single day—whether I’m writing, studying, working, or enjoying gaming sessions in the evening. Because I spend hours typing, I became increasingly aware of how different keyboards actually feel and perform. That pushed me to explore the major types of computer keyboards, how each one functions, and which situations they are best suited for. In this article, I share what I’ve learned through experience and research, focusing on four popular keyboard types: the French AZERTY layout, the English QWERTY layout, portable keyboards for phones and tablets, and dedicated gaming keyboards. My goal is to offer practical, neutral guidance that helps you choose the keyboard that genuinely fits your needs.

The French Keyboard (AZERTY)

The first time I used a French keyboard was during a trip to North Africa, where keyboards with the AZERTY layout are very common in places like Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria. At first, the letter arrangement felt unusual because the keys start with A and Z on the top row instead of Q and W as in the English layout. But after a few days, I started to understand why this layout is preferred in French-speaking regions.

The AZERTY keyboard is optimized for French typography. Characters such as “é,” “è,” and “ç” are easily accessible, which makes writing in French much smoother. Many schools, offices, and government institutions use it, making it the standard in those regions. When I needed to type in Arabic while using an AZERTY keyboard, it only took a quick system setting adjustment to switch languages. For anyone living in or frequently interacting with French-speaking environments, this layout is practical and efficient.

The English Keyboard (QWERTY)

The keyboard layout I use most often is the English QWERTY keyboard, which is widely considered the global standard. Almost every laptop or desktop computer I’ve used outside French-speaking countries comes with this layout. It is especially convenient for programming, writing, and general computer use because most tutorials, software shortcuts, and international documentation rely on QWERTY.

One thing I appreciate is how easy it is to add Arabic or any other language. In my case, I simply enable Arabic in the operating system, and I’m able to switch languages with a single shortcut. When I needed visible Arabic letters on the keys, I found that simple keyboard stickers did the job perfectly without needing a new keyboard. The versatility of QWERTY makes it suitable for students, writers, developers, and everyday users who want simplicity and compatibility.

Portable Keyboards for Phones and Tablets

As someone who works while traveling, I’ve tried several portable keyboards designed for mobile devices. These compact keyboards connect through Bluetooth or USB and offer surprising convenience when writing long messages, taking notes, or working on documents away from my desk. Some models even include a built-in touchpad, which eliminates the need to carry a separate mouse.

However, my experience taught me to avoid extremely cheap options. The very low-cost models—those in the range of three to five dollars—often suffer from connectivity issues, weak build quality, or keys that stop working within weeks. Choosing a mid-range or reputable brand makes a significant difference in usability and durability. If you travel frequently or prefer lightweight setups, a portable keyboard can become an essential tool.

Gaming Keyboards

Gaming keyboards are a whole different category. When I began playing competitive games like tactical shooters and fast-paced action titles, I immediately noticed how crucial keyboard responsiveness became. A fraction of a second can influence how a match turns out, so a reliable keyboard is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity for anyone who takes gaming seriously.

Most gaming keyboards fall into one of two categories: mechanical or membrane. Mechanical keyboards are the most popular among gamers due to their durability and fast actuation. Each key has its own switch, which gives a distinct tactile feel and quicker response. Membrane keyboards, on the other hand, are quieter and cheaper but tend to wear out faster.

Another element many gamers enjoy is RGB lighting. While the colors don’t improve performance, they do help create an immersive atmosphere, especially in dim gaming rooms. Prices vary widely, but I’ve found that a good mechanical keyboard usually starts around fifty dollars. The investment is worth it if you value precision and comfort during long gaming sessions.

Final Thoughts

After trying different keyboard types over the years, I learned that there is no single “best” keyboard for everyone. The ideal choice depends on your daily habits, the languages you type in, your work style, and whether gaming is part of your routine. The French AZERTY layout works beautifully for French speakers, while QWERTY remains a versatile global standard. Portable keyboards offer mobility, and gaming keyboards provide the responsiveness serious players look for.

If you’re choosing a new keyboard, I recommend focusing on comfort, build quality, and long-term reliability rather than just price. A good keyboard can last for years and make your daily tasks noticeably easier. My own preferences shifted as I gained more experience, and I learned that paying attention to small details—like key spacing, switch feel, and layout—can completely change the typing experience.

Thank you for reading, and I hope my personal insights help you choose the keyboard that suits your needs best.