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At a glance…
The most durable keyboards are mechanical. As opposed to the membrane type, mechanical operated keys have individual, complete switches underneath each key on the board.
If you are only looking for insane durability and nothing else, go for industrial keyboards such as iKey DBL-810-TB.
- Stainless steel chassis.
- IP65 rated for water resistance.
- Anti-ghosting, meaning every key is registered by the computer even when pressed simultaneously.
- Rated IP35 for dust and water resistance.
- Excellent for both productivity & gaming.
- RGB Lightning and programmable via smart applet customization.
Keyboard Warriors
If you operate a desktop computer instead of a laptop or portable computing device, chances are you’ve seen the dizzying amount of choices on offer in the external keyboard world.
Keyboard differences may seem largely aesthetic at face value, while ‘strength’ and ‘durability’ aren’t as relevant in this product category.
But, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
There are various keyboard types and underlying technologies that suit a broad range of functions and vary greatly in terms of product life.
Clicks and their responses are measured in millimeters and milliseconds, and that can make all the difference if you’re using your keyboard for online gaming. And it hardly matters at all for basic word-processing and data entry functions.
On top of that, the price range within the market is considerably large. In the hunt for the Most Durable Keyboard, we are trying to solve the following dilemma:
What’s the ‘right’ amount of money to pay for a keyboard for your intended purpose? Will paying a certain amount guarantee high-quality performance and reliability for years to come, or are there deals to be found where you can receive superior quality for a lower price?
If you share my confusion, don’t worry. We’ve gone head-first into the keyboard world and sought out everything you need to know about these devices, like the ergonomic features, underlying technologies, long-lasting qualities, to recommend the most reliable rugged keyboards for a lifetime of solid operation.
This article will first detail the different keyboard categories, the technologies they rely upon, and their best usage scenarios.
We will then highlight the keyboard brands that offer the most durability: categorized by intended use, listing a few of the top picks from their product range, alongside the features that stole our attention.
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What are the types of keyboards?
If you’re desktop gaming, doing office work, using your computer for multimedia entertainment, or all of the above, there’s a keyboard out there for you.
Here are the types on offer, and what makes them perfect for their intended use.
Operation
The ‘master’ category for keyboards is their operational type. This refers to the type of mechanism that activates the digital response deriving from a keystroke, and most consumer-level keyboards use one of two types.
Membrane operation
Membrane keys are composed of three layers atop an electrically conductive pad, the pressing of which allows current to flow which in turn initiates the key response.
The ‘keys’ of a membrane keyboard are not comprised of separate, moving parts as with other types.
This means that there is very little perceptible physical feedback from a keystroke, which is great for minimizing noise, but also can disrupt keystroke accuracy, especially when touch-typing.
Membrane keyboards are typically cheaper than the alternative.
Mechanical operation
Mechanical keys have individual complete switches underneath each key on the board.
They utilize spring-action to actuate the keystroke, returning to their original position quickly once pressed. You only need to press the key halfway for the stroke to register in mechanical keys, resulting in quicker response times.
This makes them superior for gaming and faster, more accurate typing. They are also louder as a result but can be customized to a greater degree than membrane keyboards.
The durability of keyboards is mostly measured by the number of actuations a key can successfully withstand over time.
In mechanical keyboards, lifespan can exceed 20 million presses.
In membrane keyboards, the figure is much less but still in the millions.
If you are maybe an up-and-coming professional gamer and really want to go into details about Mechanical Keyboards, check this Reddit post. It’s very comprehensive.
Keyboard Design
Separate from their operational type, keyboards have a range of design modifications that suit different contexts and user needs.
Ergonomic design
Ergonomic keyboards [1] are designed to minimize the physiological strain associated with the long-term use of traditionally designed keyboards. They often arrange the keys in a way that is complementary to the human hand and arm anatomy or have wrist or palm supports.
Wireless (design)
Wireless keyboards utilize primarily Bluetooth, but sometimes radio frequency or Wi-Fi technology to connect and communicate with the main device.
They are useful for allowing device usage at distance, however require recharging.
Gaming design
As a rule, gaming keyboards use the old-fashioned mechanical keyboard design with wires (which allows for faster response times). Usually, the design of gaming keyboards includes things like backlit RGB keys programmed to certain games and scenarios.
Some keys within a game may be programmable, such as the ‘WASD’ keys traditionally used for character movement.
Tenkeyless design
This term refers to keyboards designed without the numerical ‘ten-key’ pad featured in proto-typical keyboards. They are more compact but less useful for typical data entry usage.
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#BIFL criteria for The Most Durable Keyboards
So, the keyboard type that fits our rugged needs will most likely be wired, mechanical keyboards given their enhanced lifespan and connective reliability.
We will also look out for keyboards with ergonomic considerations and backlighting as a plus.
As usual here on RuggedRatings, all of the products we select will meet one or all elements of the following BIFL criteria:
- Rugged: 50% weight from the total score – Keyboards with military or other specifications for protection against common hazards.
- Repairable: 20% weight from the total score – Keyboards with lifetime warranties or the possibility of purchasing spare keys.
- Upgradable: 15% weight from the total score – Keyboards with additional peripheral attachment options or ergonomic assistance.
- Multipurpose: 15% weight from the total score – Keyboards with multiple connection options, or keyboards that satisfy different functional contexts.
Let’s jump in.
Rugged General Use Keyboards
There is something for everyone among these keyboards. In addition to robust frames, these keyboards also excel in rudimentary industrial tasks and handle basic desk work.
They go from $120 to $270.
Ducky
Ducky Shine 7
Taiwanese-born, Ducky focuses their efforts on one thing and one thing only: mechanical keyboards.
This focus allows them to cater to a range of needs and gratify a high level of board customization.
Ducky’s Shine 7 model keyboard, available in 5 different editions, is their toughest all-rounder.
The case is composed of Zinc Alloy, which is three times stronger than Aluminum for an impact-resistant [2] profile.
Ducky keycaps are made from Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT), which can survive up to 302F (150C), are resistant to solvents, and don’t ‘shine’ [3] as fast as the ABS alternative.
They are mostly wired via USB Type C cables, which support a 1000Hz polling rate [4], and you have the option of 6 or n-key rollover.
The Shine is RGB backlit 3528 SMD LEDs, which have a longer life expectancy and superior signal stability.
Ducky Mecha Mini
If portability is a concern, consider Ducky’s tenkeyless Mecha Mini model, which has the same Cherry MX switches, PBT keycaps, and advanced LED backlighting in a more compact Aluminum case.
Das
Das 5Q
Born of one man’s quest to improve his typing speed and accuracy, Das keyboards have been innovating in the space since 2005 and show no signs of slowing down.
The self-described world-first “smart keyboard” in the 5Q model is on their list of achievements – and – is an RGB keyboard that uses its backlighting for more than just visual prowess.
With drag-and-drop ease, you can assign applets to your keyboard that can be configured to notify you of an endless variety of digital events and information via the LEDs. An example would be the numbers on the keyboard gradually turning from green to red each day your deadline approaches.
There is no limit to the number of personalized products, and informational presets you can create with an open API.
Keys could glow blue when it starts to rain or flash orange when your typing speed decreases. Twitch, email, stock information, Stack overflow, the possibilities are truly endless.
The keyboard uses Japanese Gamma Zulu key switches, which have a soft, tactile feel and an average lifecycle of over 100 million clicks.
It has a key detection of 1 millisecond which is equal to 1000 key detections per second. It is made of two Aluminum panels and features a soft silicone wrist rest.
Das X50Q
If you want the same smart applet customization but at a better price, a great alternative would be the X50Q model from Das.
It has the same smart technology, RGB backlighting, and Gamma Zulu switches, but with slower key detection at 20 milliseconds and exclusivity to the Windows OS.
- MADE FOR MASTER PROFESSIONALS AND MASTER GAMERS - Essential productivity tool that keeps...
- FULLY PROGRAMMABLE RGB KEYS- If your website is down or you have been assigned a new task, or if the...
- UP TO 100 MILLION KEYSTROKES - The X50Q sports the fastest and most reliable mechanical Gamma Zulu...
- FULL N-KEY ROLLOVER - Fast typists, productive professionals and gamers will appreciate that Das...
- PRE-BUILT Q APPLETS AND MORE - The Q Software uses downloadable applets from Q marketplace to light...
Last update on 2024-05-03 at 09:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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Rugged Gaming Keyboards
These keyboards invariably boast vibrant backlighting for an enhanced visual experience, and sometimes ergonomic palm rests to support long gaming sessions.
Prices vary, but you can get a durable gaming keyboard for between $60 and $200.
Corsair
Corsair K68 RGB
Californian high-performance gaming company Corsair offers a complete range of solutions for gamers and streamers. Still, it’s their mechanical keyboards that stand out for their responsiveness, brilliant backlit illumination, and surprising durability.
Corsair keyboards utilize Cherry MX switches, which is a popular series of patented key switches defined by differing actuation forces, tactile, and auditory feedback.
Take the K68 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard for example. It’s a mechanical gaming keyboard with a detachable ergonomic wrist support bar.
You can order it with three different Cherry MX switch types:
- Blue (‘clicky’ actuation)
- Speed
- Red (linear actuation).
Each key is individually backlit, custom programmable with Corsair’s iCUE [5] software, and can correspond with the live on-screen game color profile.
Perfectly designed for gaming, this model is ‘NKRO’ [6] with anti-ghosting, the acronym referring to ‘n-key rollover’, meaning every key is registered by the computer even when pressed simultaneously.
The K68 is also IP35 rated for dust and water resistance, meaning it can withstand low-pressure water jets from any direction (or more likely, a spilled coffee or Red Bull), and has dedicated volume and multimedia controls.
- Connectivity Technology: Usb 2.0 Type-A
Last update on 2024-05-03 at 09:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Corsair K70 RGB MK.2
The K70 RGB MK.2 from Corsair is not rated for water resistance, but boasts all of the other features in the K68 but in a tougher aluminum frame.
You can also pick up this model with Cherry MX Silent keys, with the same speedy actuation but with 30% less noise.
- Aircraft grade anodized brushed aluminum frame, built to withstand a lifetime of gaming. Keyboard...
- 8MB profile storage with hardware macro and lighting playback allow access to up to three stored profiles...
- Per key dynamic multi color RGB backlighting offers near unlimited color customization and control;...
- 100percentage CHERRY MX mechanical key switches provide the reliability and accuracy you demand
- USB pass through port provides convenient access to an additional USB port for your mouse or headset. HID...
Last update on 2024-05-03 at 09:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Razer
Razer Huntsman Elite
If you’re already invested in the PC gaming community, chances are you’ve heard of Razer before. With a product range that caters to every technological need for casual and competitive gamers alike, Razer has found success everywhere in gaming including at the highest levels in esports.
Razer’s gaming keyboards have received recognition and awards for Best Gaming Keyboard, Best Mechanical Keyboard, and more.
Their tournament-ready keyboards also possess switch innovations that serve to increase overall durability.
The Razer Huntsman Elite for example utilizes ‘optical switches’, which work by beaming light towards a sensor that is interrupted by the idle position of the key. Once pressed, the light can reach the sensor activating the response.
Not only is it faster, but the lack of physical contact means it has an astonishing 100 million actuation lifespan.
A choice of actuation type, ‘light and clicky’ or ‘light & instant’, is still available.
- Faster Than Legacy Mechanical Switches: Razer Optical switches use light-based actuation, registering key...
- Ultimate Personalization & Gaming Immersion with Razer Chroma: Fully syncs with popular games, Razer...
- Quality, Aluminum Construction: Covered with a matte, aluminum top frame for increased structural...
- Ergonomic, Magnetic Wrist Rest: Made of plush leatherette to maximize comfort over extended gaming...
- Fully Programmable Macro Support: Razer Hypershift allows for all keys and keypress combinations to be...
Last update on 2024-05-03 at 09:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Razer Cynosa V2
For a cheaper, more casual gaming option, you could look at the Razer Cynosa V2 priced at a reasonable $60.
It is a membrane keyboard with RGB individual-key customizable backlighting.
Its membrane key design allows for cushioned, quiet actuation.
It’s one of the only Razer keyboard lines with a durable, “spill-resistant” design, though no rated level of water resistance is stated.
It has NKRO and a set of dedicated media controls.
- The NPD Group, U.S. Retail Tracking Service, Gaming Designed: Keyboards, Mice, PC Headsets, and PC...
- All-Around Gaming Performance: Able to execute up to ten commands at the same time with built-in key...
- Ultimate Personalization & Gaming Immersion with Razer Chroma: Fully syncs with popular games, Razer...
- Spill-Resistant Design: Built to withstand most accidental liquid splashes
- Fully Programmable Macros: Razer Hypershift allows for all keys and keypress combinations to be remapped...
Last update on 2024-05-03 at 09:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Rugged Industrial / Defense Keyboards
These keyboards are typically environmentally sealed for protection against dirt-filled environments and can be easily cleaned. As specialist devices, they are significantly more expensive than consumer models with an average price range of anywhere between around $200 – $1000.
iKey
iKey SLK-101
A great place to start your search for the most durable keyboard in the industrial category is with the rugged Texan electronic peripheral company iKey.
Originally acting only on the manufacturing side of the industrial keyboard market, iKey’s reputation got away from them, and they focused their skills on where they were needed: in logistics, military, public safety, energy, and utility contexts.
Their massive range of keyboards are “durable by design”, and are rated anywhere from NEMA 12 to NEMA 4x, which means they are protected against industrial environmental hazards like water, dust, oil, and coolants.
More so, they are able to withstand extreme temperatures in both hot and cold environments.
The flat, low-profile keys also allow for easy cleaning and disinfecting, and the customizable, backlit keys allow for typing in challenging low-light environments.
Take the SLK-101. This relatively compact 10” mechanical keyboard is MIL-STD-461G [7] rated with a tough ABS polycarbonate frame.
It has NEMA 4x protection against dust, water, and corrosive liquids and can survive temperatures between -40 and +194F.
It has 8 levels of green LED backlighting for use in dark environments and has a respectable 10 million key switch actuation life cycle.
No products found.
iKey DBL-810-TB
For an even tougher unit, check out the DBL-810-TB, which has roughly equitable rugged specifications but in a sturdier stainless steel chassis that is also IP65 rated for water resistance.
- The new DBL-810-TB is constructed using a highly rugged, stainless steel case and industrial
- Item Package Dimension: 15.0L x 6.0W x 1.0H inches
- Item Package Weight - 4.4 Pounds
- Item Package Quantity - 1
- Product Type - KEYBOARD MOUSE SET
Last update on 2024-05-03 at 09:24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Stealth
Stealth 5000-DU-FSR
Stealth.com manufactures computer electronics and peripherals which have been “ruggedized” for use in industrial and defense environments.
Their parent company, Sparton Corporation, has been operating in this space with a great track record for over a century, so rigorous attention to quality and reliability is virtually guaranteed.
Their keyboard range is considered with shop floor, kiosk, medical carts, and mobile mount applications in mind.
They are environmentally sealed to NEMA standards and are washable via a ‘clean key’, which disengages the keys so that the unit can be vigorously cleaned without issuing commands.
The 5000-DU-FSR is one of Stealth’s most popular mechanical switch models. It is sealed to NEMA 4x standards, and IP65 rated [9] for water resistance.
As with most rugged keyboards, the case is made from tough ABS polycarbonate and is operational at 100% humidity, with a working temperature range between -4 to +140 degrees Fahrenheit (-20 to +60 Celsius).
The key travel is 1.4mm with an actuation force of 200g.
Uniquely, this model has a generous 24 function keys and a built-in circular “mouse” (actually, it’s more similar to a trackball)
Stealth 75-DT-BL
A cheaper alternative from Stealth would be the 75-DT-BL, a much more compact tenkeyless unit with backlit key illumination.
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Most Durable Keyboards | Infographic
Most Durable Keyboards | Comparison Table
| Product | Features | RUGGED RATINGS | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Most durable overall |
| 10 | Check Latest Price |
 |
| 9 | Check Latest Price |
|
| 8.7 | Check Latest Price |
Best for gaming |
| 8.5 | Check Latest Price |
Best for productivity |
| 8.5 | Check Latest Price |
 |
| 8.1 | Check Latest Price |
 |
| 8.1 | Check Latest Price |
 |
| 8 | Check Latest Price |
 |
| 8 | Check Latest Price |
 |
| 7.5 | Check Latest Price |
 |
| 7.1 | Check Latest Price |
 |
| 6 | Check Latest Price |
Conclusion and Recommendations
Well, there we have it.
Twelve top-of-the-line keyboards across a range of categories were selected specifically for their impressive overall specifications and functions, but most importantly, their notable attention to durability and longevity – all prime reasons to buy.
iKey’s DBL-810-TB model keyboard earns the maximum of 100 rating from us due to its unique Stainless-Steel housing and NEMA rating for resistance to a whole host of nasty industrial hazards. If you’re searching for your next industrial or military-ready keyboard and are willing to pay top company dollar for it, look no further. However, it is a tenkeyless design, so if you’re a keen user of the number pad we should point you towards Stealth’s 5000-DU-FSR.
For the general user, I would recommend giving your attention to the Das X50Q. You have access to a crazy amount of productivity options that will be incredibly useful in office settings without having to spend crazy amounts. The 100 million+ lifecycle of the key switches is a huge plus with this model.
However, if you’re already a die-hard Cherry MX switch person (and there are many), I would recommend checking out Corsair’s K68. It’s a gaming keyboard so has great responsiveness, but will effortlessly fit desk work applications with its comfortable ergonomic wrist support bar and handy IP32 water resistance.
FAQ
Which keyboard is most durable?
Check out the iKey DBL-810-TB, with rugged specs. It has a durable stainless-steel chassis with an IP65 rating for water resistance and NEMA approval for resistance to various industrial dangers.
What is the average lifespan of a keyboard?
A normal keyboard’s average lifespan is two to five years. The frequency with which you use it can alter this time frame.
How long can a mechanical keyboard last?
The key switches on your mechanical keyboard should last between 10 and 15 years, depending on how you take care of it.
How long do membrane keyboards last?
Membrane keyboards can last for about 2-3 years if cared for properly, as they have 5 million key presses. Furthermore, they may work in the future, but they will not be as smooth since their keys will begin to stick or not have the same feel as when the new keyboard.
Do keyboards wear out?
Yes, keyboards can be damaged if you’re pounding on them angrily, spilling beverages, and having pet accidents. You can extend the life of your keyboard by using a silicone key cover that will help protect it from dust accumulation and accidental spills. However, that silicon cover might not give you the same smooth tactile feel…
Which brand of keyboard is best?
Stealth.com produces “ruggedized” computer equipment and peripherals in industrial and defense environments. They are NEMA-certified for environmental protection and have a “clean key,” which disengages the keys module and allows cleaning of the unit.
Why do keyboards break?
Pounding your keyboard will take its toll on it. It may not break the first time, but it will wear it down in time. If you don’t beat on your switches when angry, your chances of breaking the keyboard become less. Though it could still break due to mishandling, being dropped, or otherwise physically damaged.
What switches are the quietest?
The Cherry MX Red and Cherry MX Black switches are the two most common types of Quietest Keyboard Switches used in keyboards. These are the two most popular keyboard choices.
What are the three types of keyboards?
- Standard Keyboard: The most typical keyboard feature is that it travels at least 0.150 inches and is around a three-quarter inch in the center.
- Flexible Keyboard: Inside the flexible keyboard, you find a particular material; silicone and other soft polymers. It is unique because you can bend it anywhere you want, and it is strong and water-resistant.
- Laptop Size Keyboard: Laptop-sized keyboards are another straightforward and commonly used keyboard.
What do you think? Do you have a different opinion on the Most Durable Keyboard? Be sure to share this article with anyone and everyone in the market for #BIFL durable keyboards. We regularly post guides similar to this one all about products that aim to last a lifetime, so stay posted if you agree with the Buy It For Life golden rule as much as we do.
What to check next: The Most Durable Bluetooth Headphones [2021] […] we want to wear our pair while jogging through heavy rainfall, protect our ears during industrial activities, and most importantly, we want the luxury of buying a pair of durable headphones, so we don’t have to buy another pair–hopefully ever.
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