Best Coding Keyboards for Kids
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Coders and programmers do a lot of typing, so if you want to be a professional, it’s essential that you invest early in the ability to type using a great keyboard. There is no doubt that in this day and age, with online learning and so much technology, typing is more important than ever.
This is why we offer both online and in-person coding and gaming camps. The gaming camps are just for fun, and the coding camps offer really important skills - but either way, the ability to type well is very important!
If you’ve been looking for a coding keyboard but aren’t sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place!. We’ve compiled a list of the best keyboards for kid coders below. If your child is into gaming, read on as well - most of these keyboards are solid options for gaming as well.
What Makes a Good Keyboard for Coding?
Mechanical vs. Non-Mechanical
There are various opinions online about whether or not coders should use mechanical keyboards. The general consensus among techie/coder/gamers is that mechanical keyboards are awesome. Personally, I like the feel of a mechanical keyboard both for gaming and for coding. There are a variety of options in the mechanical keyboard market - and many will be presented below. It really comes down to preference.
One word of caution for sensitive kids or parents though - mechanical keyboards can be loud. It can be hard to have a conversation with someone when they are typing on a mechanical keyboard! This can be an issue during gaming, since most kids chat with their friends these days during gameplay.
Ergonomics
As a coder, you’ll be typing for an extensive period of time. For that reason, you’ll need an ergonomic keyboard that won’t cause you any wrist strain or injuries.
Some of the features that make a coding keyboard ergonomic include an adjustable height and tilt. This way, you’ll be able to position your wrist in a neutral position; hence, avoid unnecessary strain and injury.
Based on ergonomics, there are 2 types of keyboards to choose from.
Split or splay keyboard
When the phrase ‘ergonomic keyboard’ is mentioned, this is the type of keyboard that most people think of. It will either be partially or completely separated.
When you’re coding using an ordinary keyboard, you’re forced to extend your arms from the shoulders forming a kind of V pattern. This causes strain on your joints. A split keyboard eliminates this pressure by positioning your hands more naturally.
Tenting
With this model of keyboard, the middle part where your thumb stays is a bit raised. This ergonomic positioning enables your forearm muscles to relax; hence stimulating blood flow. The higher the tent, the more comfortable your hands will be as you type. A few keyboards will have adjustable settings for the ‘tent’, helping you find the most comfortable position.
Size
When choosing a keyboard for programming, another aspect you should take into consideration is the size. There are three main sizes: full size, tenkeyless and compact.
Full Size - A full size keyboard can be identified by the 104 buttons that it has, including a full number pad. Given the number of buttons, it’s not surprising that it also has all the necessary function keys. The only drawback of a full-size keyboard is that it’s pretty big. This makes it difficult to transport. It also means that you’ll have to stretch a little bit more to access the mouse.
Tenkeyless - If you don’t want to grapple with these issues, you can opt for the tenkeyless keyboard. This model is practical if you don’t need to access the number pad. Because there is no number pad, the size of the keyboard is significantly reduced.
Compact - The compact keyboard is the most recent addition. However, it’s become popular quite fast, probably because of its small size. Apart from the number pad, this keyboard also gets rid of the f-row and arrow keys. However, you’ll still be able to access these features by using a combination of keys including the function key.
Although these are the most common sizes of keyboards, there are a couple of other options as well. The 65% keyboard. This one is fairly similar to the compact model. The only difference is that it incorporates arrow keys and a few other buttons, such as page up/down and delete. If you want a coding keyboard that is way smaller, the 40% keyboard is a good option. This only constitutes of alpha keys and a few modifiers.
Reviews of the Best Keyboards for Coding
Logitech G513 RGB Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
If you’re not looking to spend that much on your first keyboard for coding, the Logitech G513 is an excellent option. It strikes a good balance between pricing and features, meaning you’ll still be able to enjoy features that are important to coders and programmers.
For starters, it has a brushed aluminum frame. Apart from giving it a sleek look, the aluminum frame makes for a highly durable keyboard that can withstand hours of typing every day.
Another feature that sets this keyboard apart is the conveniently-positioned USB pass through. This element enables you to set up your mouse and additional peripherals without creating a rat’s nest of cables.
To top it all of, this keyboard comes with the option of choosing premium-quality Romer switches that are known for their responsive and comfortable feel.
Pros
Romer G switches provide 25% faster responsiveness
Equipped with a USB pass-through port
Aluminum frame for durability
Affordable
Cons
Does not have a Num Lock indicator light
Razer Huntsman Elite Gaming Keyboard
For coders who prefer keyboards that allow them to type at lightning speed, the Razer Huntsman Elite is one keyboard that excels in this area.
The best part is, you can enjoy this speed without spending a fortune. Though it’s not as affordable as Logitech 513, it’s certainly cheaper than Kinesis Advantage2.
What makes this keyboard so fast is the use of Optomechanical switches instead of the typical mechanical switches. The Optomechanical switch execute the same commands but they employ a beam of light to do so. Since the speed of light is faster than anything else, the keys provide an ultra-fast response.
The wrist rest is a nice addition to this coding keyboard. Comprising of plush foam fabric and a strong plastic chassis, this wrist rest feels incredibly comfortable. You’ll be able to type for hours on end without worrying that your wrist will become fatigued too quickly.
Pros
Provides the fastest key actuation
Has tactile and audible key switch strokes
Includes a wrist rest
Sleek and ergonomic keyboard layout
Equipped with intuitive media controls
Cons
Needs 2 USB ports for power
Does not have a USB passthrough port
Corsair K63 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Corsair K63 Gaming Keyboard is another pocket-friendly keyboard for first-time coders. It’s a tenkeyless, wireless keyboard that boasts a response time of one-millisecond!
Another highlight of this keyboard is its space-saving design. This makes it one of the most suitable for coders who plan to use it in a living room- it can easily be tucked under a couch or in the corner and go unnoticed. This also means that you can use this keyboard on the go as it’s easily portable.
If you’re used to placing the keyboard on a desk, the rubber wrist rest really comes in handy. Plus, it has an impressive battery life of 15 hours, giving you the opportunity to code for hours without worrying that the battery will run low. If you want to extend the battery life, consider using the keyboard with the backlight dimmed or completely turned off.
The Corsair K63 also has a USB pass-through. This makes it incredibly easy to set up your mouse, headset or anything else you need. Also, this keyboard is compatible with several operating systems including Windows 7, 8, 10 and Vista.
Pros
Has a quality and durable build
Cherry MX red switches have a responsive feel
Decent battery life
Super-fast 1 ms 2.4 GHz wireless connection
Cons
Single color of backlighting
Das Keyboard 4 Ultimate
For coders looking for a minimalist keyboard that will offer a smooth and flawless typing experience, Das Keyboard 4 Ultimate is one of the best options. It’s a full-size keyboard, which comes equipped with media keys and a volume dial positioned on the far right-hand side.
The top plate is constructed from aluminum, giving it a lightweight, but highly durable structure. It also has a matte black finish- an aspect that helps to accentuate the blank keycaps.
This keyboard offers the option of using Cherry MX brown or blue switches. Every key is weighted and provides superb responsiveness. We like that none of the keys wobble or sway- a problem that is very common with cheap boards.
Pros
Equipped with Cherry MX switches for superior performance
Keys provide a tactile fee
Sleek, minimalist design
Cons
The volume dial can be designed in a more intuitive way
Kinesis Advantage2 Ergonomic Keyboard
If ergonomics is an important factor for you, then the Kinesis Advantage2 is the perfect beginner keyboard. In fact, its ergonomic structure is what makes it so suitable for tasks like coding that involve a great deal of typing. We will warn you that this may not be the most traditional starter keyboard for kids.
Unfortunately, this ergonomic design comes with a hefty price tag. But the benefit that it offers of easing tension on your fingers as you type, is priceless.
Another thing we love about this keyboard is that it provides optimal durability. Its Cherry MX Brown mechanical switches have a low activation force and they’re rated for 50 million keystrokes. That’s a lot of coding!
Bonus: The Kinesis Advantage2 is compatible with an array of operating systems including Windows 7 to 10, Linux, Chrome and Mac OS X.
Pros
Contoured ergonomic design for maximum productivity and comfort
Long lifespan
Backed by a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
Expensive
Wrap Up
If you’re looking to purchase a keyboard for coding, there are a couple of key features you should look for. Ideally, it should have ergonomic features as you’ll be using the keyboard for several hours at a time. It should also have responsive keys and be a good size for what you want to do and where you plan to do it.
We’ve complied quite the list, but our overall favorite model is Logitech G513 RGB Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard. Its Romer G switches provide 25% more responsiveness. It’s also affordable, has a USB pass through port and an aluminum housing that enhances its durability.
We hoped this helped you in your quest to find a great coding keyboard! Let us know what you think in the comments!
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