External Keyboards for Laptops

Having bought your laptop, you are in awe of all its features: the HD LCD screen, the HD graphics, amazing speed, glossy finish and sleek looks. Everything will be good if this is your first computer. But if you are moving to a laptop after years of using a desktop, which is most probably the case, then it will take some time getting used to it. Actually, the keyboard and mouse will be the parts that require getting some adjustment to.

Though the touch sensitive track pad is a great feature, it requires some getting used to, and many people therefore prefer using an external, USB mouse. Using an external mouse not only provides ease of use, but familiarity as well, as it is just like the one you use on your desktop. The second thing is the keyboard. Though most laptops include the best possible keyboard, chances are that you might not be satisfied with it. The best solution in such a case is getting yourself an external keyboard, which can be attached to your laptop via USB, and which will give you all the flexibility of a normal keyboard.

First of all, as soon as you get your laptop, spend some time using the provided keyboard. Give it at least a month or two. Only when you are sure that the keyboard is not up to your requirements, or you are not comfortable with it, then you should opt for an external keyboard.

With modern technology, you have the option to choose between wired and wireless external keyboards. Wired keyboards connect through a USB port and are relatively easy to use. As soon as you plug in your external keyboard, you get the “Found New Hardware” wizard that opens up and gives you options to configure and start using your external keyboard. Most keyboards are plug and play, so there’s hardly room for trouble. Be sure to choose the brand of keyboard that you are most comfortable with, and just plug it into your laptop and start using it.

There is also the option of the wireless keyboard, which is similar to a wired one but offers more flexibility, as you can sit across the room and work on your laptop, play a game or just chat with friends (provided you can see the screen of course). The wireless keyboards are a bit more expensive than wired ones, but are a smart investment as they offer a whole lot of freedom. Be aware of cheap rip off models though as they will not last long. Opt for a wireless keyboard made by a trusted company, such as Microsoft or Logitech. Most wireless keyboards operate on Bluetooth. Just pop in some batteries, configure your wireless keyboard in your operating system and start typing.

You need to get an external keyboard if you work a lot on your laptop, because the smaller keyboard on your laptop just won’t do. It is better for many people to use an external keyboard for ease of use, and thus overall better productivity.

Another great option is language-specific keyboards! There are Chinese, Spanish, German and all other language-specific keyboards available, which are a great if you have a laptop from a country other than your own or if you are learning a language and going to write in it. Whatever the reason, an external keyboard is a smart part to have and something you can easily buy and use.

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