Top 9 Best Portable Bluetooth Keyboards in 2021 (Logitech, Plugable, and More)

We've categorized our top nine favorites based on size, battery life, if it comes with a stand, and extra features. 

Finding the right keyboard is going to depend largely on your preferences as well as the situations you plan on using it in. We encourage you to keep these things in mind as you find your way through the numerous options. 

You might be thinking, what exactly are the pros and cons to getting a keyboard that runs off a Bluetooth connection? Let's take a look at what you should know about its connectivity and how it will help you decide on the best keyboard for you.

If you have multiple devices connected to your keyboard, the connection may reduce in speed and could lose connection temporarily. However, don't let this shy you away as these issues can usually be resolved by re-establishing the connection. The power of Bluetooth may also cause the battery to drain faster but remember, this varies on your usage. 

It seems that Bluetooth versions have evolved over the years and come a long way in the wireless technology world. The most commonly used Bluetooth versions for keyboards are Bluetooth v3.0 and higher, all the way to v5.1 which is known as Bluetooth Low Energy or Bluetooth Smart.

Bluetooth v3.0 can transfer large amounts of data up to a speed of 24 millibytes per second, while v4.0 and higher were created to transmit data to other devices with improved speed and greater range, all while lowering the power that is needed to generate the connection. 

It's a good idea to always double-check that your device will match with the specific Bluetooth version. Also, take into account how much usage and time will be put into your keyboard to decide which version you need. 

As you peruse our Top 9 list, you may have noticed that a majority of our picks are compatible with most devices and their operating systems: Android, Windows, macOS, and iOS. These devices include your phone, tablet, iPad, and laptop. Most of the keyboards can pair up to four, so you can easily customize your experience.

The last thing you want to happen is purchasing a keyboard that will not connect with the device that you need it for. Make sure to read the specifications outlined for each keyboard to ensure your device's operating system will pair with it perfectly!

When it comes to choosing the size of your keyboard, consider your location, whether it will need to be moved often, and how much you plan on typing.

When it comes to portability, most people may think smaller is better. Unfortunately, this may not necessarily apply to all portable keyboards. Smaller keyboards do indeed take up less space, yet they also give your hands less room to move around the keys and could leave you feeling uncomfortable or more prone to mistakes.

If your job largely consists of typing, you may want to look for a keyboard that is ergonomic, which means it is designed to reduce pain or discomfort for users. Of course, every person's comfort level and needs are different, but this is a benefit that typists should consider.

To save on space without giving up finger room, look for a keyboard that folds in half. These can come with potential issues that you should take into account. For one thing, more moving parts mean more things that could break.

Some folding keyboard designs add in a gap that runs down the middle to accommodate the bend, which could be a problem if you don’t normally type with your right and left hands staying on their respective halves. With time and use, it may not pose an issue, so it's completely up to you and your preference.

Having a separate physical keyboard for your smartphone or tablet could eliminate the need for expensive, bulky laptops. However, screen-only devices can be hard to use if you don’t have a stand to keep them upright.

Getting a separate stand could solve this problem, and it would be helpful if you intend to use it regularly. Yet, if you’re only going to need a stand while using your keyboard, it makes sense to look for a keyboard that has one built-in already. That way, you have one less thing to carry and you have all your devices in one place. 

The last thing you want to do is pull out your keyboard to get work done only to realize that it’s dead. To minimize this risk, it’s important to keep active and standby battery life in mind. Active refers to how long the keyboard will last while connected and in use, while standby means how long it will last while on but not in use. 

These are important to be aware of especially if you’re not able to charge it regularly or go for long periods between uses. If you travel and need it for the weekend, you'd want to make sure it has an extensive standby battery life to eliminate the need to bring a charger or extra batteries. 

If you need functionality beyond what your standard keyboard offers, there are portable options that carry the extra feature of number pads. Those who have jobs in data input may find this to be a nice benefit to make it easier typing in those numbers. Just remember that the more features a keyboard has, the larger it may be.

Portable keyboards are subject to messes, just like most standard computer or laptop keyboards. On top of accidents that come along with being open on top of your desk, they are also prone to get tossed into bags and handled more often. Here are some tips to clean and keep your keyboard in tip-top shape.

For anything stuck on your keys and in the spaces between, use a cotton swab or microfiber cloth with a bit of isopropyl alcohol to rub in those areas. Keep in mind that isopropyl alcohol comes in different strengths; 70% is recommended for light tech cleaning. Do this often to ensure that you’re not getting any major build-up.

Below you will find more information on products that may help maintain your keyboard or you want to add on as you make your decision! 

When choosing a keyboard, it’s all about striking a balance between function and comfort! It’s best to go with one that works for you, and we hope that this top 10 list, buying guide, and extra tips will help you find it.

Author: Jacqueline Oshiro

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Sometimes when you're looking through webpages or doing research for your next writing assignment, you get the urge to write notes down on actual paper. This desk pad is handy to keep in between you and your Bluetooth keyboard and comes recommended by stationery guru Joe.