The best keyboards for Microsoft Surface aren't necessarily designed specifically for Microsoft's PC lineup. There are plenty of reasons why you might want to get something just a bit different than the official offerings. Many people like to use their laptop with a dock to make it feel more like a desktop. Others want to use their Surface from a distance, and still more people just want something with a bit more style or function. We've rounded up the best keyboard for Microsoft Surface right here to help you decide.
Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard
Best ergo typing
Microsoft's Ergonomic Keyboard for 2019 is an excellent follow-up to the legendary Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000. With larger keys, better key actuation, a fixed spacebar, and now dedicated keys for the Windows 10 emoji picker, Office, and Windows snipping tool, it's also the most useful. The price isn't that bad either, at about half of what you'll pay for a Surface Ergonomic keyboard.
Microsoft Designer Compact Keyboard
Light and compact
Microsoft's Designer Compact Keyboard is a top minimalist pick with Bluetooth connectivity and a slim, lightweight build. It has superb battery life, ideal key spacing, and multi-device support. It's also quite affordable if you don't want to spend a lot on an accessory.
Surface Ergonomic Keyboard
Extra comfortable
The Surface Ergonomic Keyboard is a full-size standalone device that connects with Bluetooth and is designed to promote wrist and forearm health when typing for long periods of time. It has a palm rest covered in Alcantara fabric, the deck is sloped, and the keyboard is split for less strain on your joints, and it matches your Surface products in design and quality.
Logitech K400 Plus
Touchpad included
If you plan on using your Surface from a distance, having a touchpad included is a huge boon. Logitech's K400 Plus delivers a comfortable keyboard and touchpad with physical buttons on the same deck, eliminating the need for an external mouse. Range hits up to 33 feet with the included wireless dongle.
Razer BlackWidow Lite
Mechanical keys
A mechanical keyboard is often preferred for its tactile feedback and low actuation point, especially if you're interested in a bit of gaming on your Surface. The Razer BlackWidow Lite lacks some premium features of larger keyboards, like RGB lighting and media keys, but its orange switches feel amazing and aren't at all loud. The host cable is removable for easier travel.
Type Cover with Fingerprint ID
Built-in biometrics
If you're working with a Surface Pro and want some extra biometric security, this genuine Microsoft Type Cover adds a fingerprint reader next to the Precision touchpad. It's otherwise the same as the standard Type Cover, and it will work with the Surface Pro 3, Pro 4, Pro (2017), Pro 6, and Pro 7. It will not fit the latest Surface Pro 8.
Ducky One 2 Mini
Best compact
If you'd like to save as much space on your desk as possible, the Ducky One 2 Mini is an outstanding option with mechanical keys and backlighting. This is a 60% keyboard, but it includes most keys you would find on a normal keyboard (just doubled up with the Fn key). Whether you're typing long drafts or conquering a long raid, this keyboard is up for the task.
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You're going to get a quality keyboard no matter which option you go with from the roundup above, but if you're still wondering where to start, we can make some suggestions.
If you type for long periods of time and find your wrists or forearms sore at the end of the day, the updated Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard should be well worth the price. Keys are split in the middle and slope away, promoting natural angles for your joints to keep them from taking repetitive damage. Keys have far more travel than you'll get with the Surface Ergonomic or Sculpt Ergonomic keyboards, and typing is quiet and easy. Instead of Alcantara or leather, the palm rest has a soft, nylon-type material that's durable and comfortable.
The refreshed 2019 model includes a few extra dedicated keys, including a Windows emoji picker, Windows Office shortcut, and snipping tool. There are also the old standbys, like calculator, task view, and Windows Search to improve productivity. This is a wired keyboard, so it's best used on a desk, and it does not have backlit keys to help with working in the dark. Still, if you want a keyboard that promotes productivity and is the most comfortable to use, this is it. Have a look at our Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard review for a full rundown.
If you're looking to spend around $50, we recommend checking out Microsoft's Designer Compact wireless keyboard. It's thin and compact, but it delivers a satisfying typing experience with plenty of battery life. It supports multiple devices, it has an emoji key, and it connects with Bluetooth. It's one of the best keyboards for Microsoft Surface if you like to remain agile.
Looking for more Type Cover options for Surface Pro? We've also rounded up the best Surface Pro keyboards that cost less than Microsoft's Type Covers that can save you money and still deliver the experience Microsoft set out to create.
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Cale Hunt
Senior Editor, Laptop Reviews
Cale Hunt is formerly a Senior Editor at Windows Central. He focuses mainly on laptop reviews, news, and accessory coverage. He's been reviewing laptops and accessories full-time since 2016, with hundreds of reviews published for Windows Central. He is an avid PC gamer and multi-platform user, and spends most of his time either tinkering with or writing about tech.
