Computer Keyboards and Mice

Computers have different types of input devices. An input is a method to enter data or information into a computer. There are various types of input devices that can be used. The most common type of input device is a keyboard, which is used to type in text or numbers. A mouse is another common type of input device, which is used to move a cursor around on the screen. There are also other types of input devices, such as drawing tablets, trackballs, joysticks, gamepads, scanners, video, and microphones, which will be discussed in other articles. Additionally, some computers have touchscreens, which allow you to input information by touching the screen, similar to smartphones. This article will focus on the two most common inputs: keyboards and mice.

One common feature for both keyboards and mice are that they can be either wired or wireless. Wired keyboards and mice connect to the computer using a USB cable. Wireless keyboards and mice connect to the computer using Bluetooth or a wireless receiver. Wired keyboards and mice are typically less expensive than wireless keyboards and mice. Wireless keyboards and mice are more convenient because they don't require a cable, but their disadvantage is that they may require batteries or use up your wireless bandwidth (signal). Most wireless today have a rechargeable feature to eliminate the need for batteries. If you do opt for a wireless keyboard or mouse, I suggest having a cheap wired backup in case your lose charge.

Below I use images retrieved from my Amazon Associate affiliation to provide visual examples of the device features. I may receive a small compensation for these links (less than a penny on each dollar). Shop around online at different sites and find what's right for you. Now let's look at some unique features of each.

Computer Mouse

A mouse is typically compatible with Macs, Personal Computers, or Laptops. Laptops have a built-in keyboard and touch pad. The touch pad has the same functionality as a mouse. Many active laptop users prefer to buy a mouse to increase the productivity and speed. A mouse can be added and removed easily by simply disconnecting it.

A typical mouse has two buttons, called the left and right buttons, that are used to click objects on your screen and a scroll wheel that can be used to scroll up and down on a page.

Basic Mouse

Mice with a scroll feature can be beneficial for a number of reasons. First, they can help reduce the amount of time that is needed to navigate up and down a page. Second, they can help reduce the amount of strain on the hands and wrists. Third, they can help increase the accuracy of scrolling. Finally, they can add an extra level of convenience for the user.

Wired - Multi-button Mouse

There's even mice that have additional side buttons that can be programmed to perform specific tasks. For example, a user may program a button to open a specific application or website.

Wired Gaming Mice

When choosing a mouse, it is important to consider the needs of the user. For example, a user who plans to use the device for general navigation and clicking on objects will need a different type of mouse than a user who plans to use the device for gaming or graphic design. Additionally, it is important to consider the budget of the user. Some mice can be quite expensive, so it is important to find a device that fits the needs of the user without breaking the bank.

Ergonomic Mouse

When using a mouse, it is important to consider ergonomics. Ergonomics is the study of how people interact with their environment. When it comes to mice, ergonomics is concerned with how the mouse fits into the hand of the user and how comfortable it is to use. Additionally, ergonomics takes into account the amount of force that is required to use the mouse. For example, a mouse that requires a lot of force to click the buttons may be uncomfortable for some users.

There are a few things to consider when choosing an ergonomic mouse. First, it is important to make sure that the mouse fits comfortably in the hand. Second, the buttons should be easy to press without requiring too much force. Finally, the mouse should be easy to use for extended periods of time without causing fatigue.

Wireless Mouse

Wireless mice can be beneficial because they can provide a more comfortable experience for the user. The user is free from tangled cords and can navigate their screen from a distance. They can also help increase the level of accuracy for computer compared to a track pad on laptops.

Wireless Gaming Mice

Wireless mice can be beneficial for gaming for a number of reasons. First, they can help reduce the amount of clutter around the gaming area. Second, they can provide a more comfortable experience for the user. Third, they can help increase the level of accuracy for gaming. However, there are a few disadvantages to using a wireless mouse for gaming. First, they can be more expensive than wired mice. Second, they may have a shorter battery life. Third, they may not be as reliable as wired mice. Finally, they may not be compatible with all gaming systems.

Mouse with Track Ball

The main difference between a mouse scroll and a track ball is the way that the cursor is moved. A mouse scroll uses a wheel to move the cursor up and down, while a track ball uses a ball that the user moves with their thumb or fingers. Track balls can be more difficult to control than mouse scrolls. Additionally, track balls can be more difficult to clean than mouse scrolls.

Keyboards

Keyboards are input devices that allow users to input text and commands into a computer. A typical keyboard has a set of alphanumeric keys, as well as a set of special keys, such as the function keys, control keys, and arrow keys. Keyboards can be connected to a computer using a wired or wireless connection. Some keyboards also have a built-in trackpad. Additionally, some keyboards have the location of numbers on the top while other keyboards have number pads separated on the side. The number pads typically are wider keyboards but they are beneficial for people who use their keyboard for mathematical purposes, such as managing budgets and data entry.

Basic Wired Keyboards

Wired keyboards are typically for PCs and Macs, as laptops have built-in keyboards and tablets typically use wireless keyboards. Some people still prefer the wired keyboard because they don't want to deal with batteries, connecting a keyboard to their Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and recharging a keyboard.

Wired Ergonomic Keyboards

Ergonomic keyboards are designed to be comfortable and easy to use. They often have a split design so that your hands can be positioned at a more natural angle, and the keys are usually spaced out so that you don't have to stretch your fingers too much. Many ergonomic keyboards also have padded wrist rests to help reduce strain on your wrists. Ergonomic keyboards are designed to reduce the amount of strain on the hands, wrists, and arms. They can be beneficial for people who suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome or other repetitive stress injuries. Ergonomic keyboards can also help increase productivity by reducing the amount of time it takes to type. However, they can be more expensive than regular keyboards. Additionally, they can take some time to get used to.

Wireless Keyboards

Wireless keyboards can be beneficial because they do not require a physical connection to the computer. This can make them more convenient to use, as well as more portable. Additionally, wireless keyboards can often be used with a variety of different devices, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones. However, wireless keyboards can be more expensive than wired keyboards. Additionally, they may require batteries, which can need to be replaced. Look for rechargeable wireless keyboards to save money on batteries.

Gaming Keyboards

The main difference between a regular keyboard and a gaming keyboard is that gaming keyboards often have additional features, such as backlighting, programmable keys, and on-board memory. Gaming keyboards can also be more expensive than regular keyboards. Additionally, gaming keyboards often have a different design than regular keyboards, with the keys being spaced further apart to make it easier for gamers to press them.

Gaming Keyboard Wireless

Wireless keyboards can be beneficial for gamers because they do not require a physical connection to the computer. This can make them more convenient to use, as well as more portable. Gamers can also sit back in a gaming chair with the keyboard on their laps.

Keyboards for Smart TVs

There are a few benefits of getting a keyboard for a Smart TV. First, it can be more convenient to use a keyboard when typing in passwords or search terms, rather than using the on-screen keyboard. Additionally, keyboards can be used to control other features on the TV, such as the volume or changing the channel. Finally, some people find it easier to type on a physical keyboard than an on-screen keyboard.

There are a variety of different types of keyboards available, each with its own set of benefits and disadvantages. Regular keyboards are the most common and can be found for a relatively low price. Ergonomic keyboards are designed to reduce strain on the hands, wrists, and arms. Gaming keyboards often have additional features, such as backlighting and programmable keys. Wireless keyboards can be more convenient to use, but they may require batteries. Smart TV keyboards can be helpful when typing in passwords or search terms. When choosing a keyboard, it is important to consider what features are most important.

I hope this article helped you to better understand the different types of keyboards available and their features. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!