All keyboards are compatible with Windows and the majority of keyboards are compatible with Mac.
But, when it comes to Linux/Unix, there are a few Linux compatible keyboards. And even if they are, some functions might not work or properly work.
In this article, we list the best keyboards for Linux that work great with Linux/Unix OS.
The Corsair K57 is a high-end membrane keyboard that keeps all its functionality when used with Linux/Unix.
A solid mechanical 60% keyboard that is great to type on.
Nothing says the best budget. When a mouse is included. The Logitech Mk235 is a solid Linux compatible keyboard.
The Corsair K57 is a high-end membrane keyboard that keeps all its functionality when used with Linux/Unix.
A solid mechanical 60% keyboard that is great to type on.
Nothing says the best budget. When a mouse is included. The Logitech Mk235 is a solid Linux compatible keyboard.
Last update on 2024-04-25 at 06:33 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Are All Keyboards Compatible With Linux?
No, not all keyboards are compatible with Linux, especially wireless keyboards.
Fortunately, in this list, we have spent hours searching for the best Linux compatible keyboards – wired & wireless. So you don’t have to spend hours doing the same.
How To Find The Best Linux Compatible Keyboard?
The easiest way to find out if a keyboard is compatible with Linux or not is to look at the specification sheet.
Once that you have determined that it’s compatible with Linux you move on to the other features you would like a keyboard to have. Here are a few questions to ask:
- How’s the typing experience on this?
- What type of keyboard do you prefer? Mechanical, membrane or chiclet?
- Do you want the keyboard to be wired, wireless or both?
- Is it in my budget?
- Should the keyboard have a backlight?
If you can answer these questions and determine if the keyboard is compatible with Linux/Unix, then you can go ahead with your purchase.
But what if you aren’t able to determine from the specification sheet? If it’s compatible with Linux? Then you have to do a bit more research or find out from other people.
Fortunately, we have done the work for you. The keyboards listed here work with Linux/Unix.
Best Linux Compatible Keyboards Reviewed & Rated
➕ Pros
- Very beautiful
- RGB works great on Linux
- Fast response time
- Long battery life
- Solid Construction
➖ Cons
- Not the most comfortable wrist rest
- Not the strongest cord
Interface and Type: Bluetooth, USB, Wired and Wireless | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Palm Rest: Yes | Type: Membrane
The Corsair K57 is a higher-end membrane keyboard that you can use for programming and is compatible with Linux.
The keyboard easily works Linux/Unix and keeps its full functionality – RGB included. And because this is a higher-end membrane keyboard.
Key presses are soft and quiet. Enough to make typing code a pleasant experience.
When it comes to build quality, the Corsair K57 was built-to-last because of its sturdy plastic.
The Corsair K57 also doubles as a wireless keyboard. So, you won’t be restricted by the short length of the cable provided.
However, the wired cable is not strong, so you have to be careful with it.
Battery life is amazing. You can use this keyboard with RGB lights on for more than a day. A week if you turn off the RGB lights.
The Corsair K57 comes with a wrist/palm rest, but it isn’t comfortable. The good news is that it’s removable.
Overall, the Corsair K57 is the best keyboard for Linux. And a solid option because of the soft key presses and no loss of functionality when used with Linux.
➕ Pros
● Solid build quality and sleek design
● Fast response time and switches
● Keycaps can be changed easily
● Superb RGB effects
➖ Cons
- USB-C needs some improvement
- Pricey
Interface and Type: USB, Bluetooth, Wired and Wireless | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Palm Rest: No | Type: Mechanical
Sleek and beautiful. The Ducky One 2 is a popular gaming keyboard that is known for its great value for money.
Although, it’s quite pricey. The mini size makes it one of the best gaming keyboards that are compatible with Linux and also has a prop that easily allows you to adjust the height.
But, what makes the Ducky One 2 different from the other mechanical keyboards is its RGB lighting system. The backlighting system is superb.
And the software allows you to easily customize it to your liking. They look amazing and the RGB lights are perfectly diffused.
When it comes to gaming, the fast response time and switches mean that every key you press in fast succession is registered.
This is thanks to its 100 per cent Cherry MX switches. So, rest assured you will have a competitive advantage when playing games.
Most mechanical keyboards are known for their replaceable keycaps. And the Ducky One 2 Mini keycaps are easily replaceable.
Overall, the Ducky One 2 is one of the best mechanical keyboards for Linux. But you should know that the keyboard’s USB-C cable is delicate so you have to be extra careful with it.
Where To Buy
➕ Pros
- Easy to set-up
- Comfortable feel and design
- Great typing experience
➖ Cons
- Non-removable palm rest
Interface and Type: USB, Bluetooth, Wired and Wireless | Keyboard backlighting: No | Palm Rest: Yes | Type: Chiclet
Once you start using this keyboard, you never want to go back to non-ergonomic keyboards. Because the Logitech Ergo K860 is the best keyboard for Linux and Unix.
A Linux-compatible keyboard that has a comfortable feel and design. This allows you type in a more natural way making it easy on your wrists.
A solid keyboard to have especially if you suffer from wrist pains during typing. You will be able to type and code for long hours because of its comfortable ergonomic design.
In addition to that, the palm rest is comfortable making it easy to relax whiles typing. The only thing is that you can’t remove or detach the palm rest. Setting up the Logitech Ergo K860 is straightforward.
To sum it all up, the Logitech Ergo K860 is the best Linux-compatible keyboard. It’s easy to set up, comfortable to type on and everyone can use it regardless of hand size.
Where To Buy
➕ Pros
- Comfortable wrist rest
- Great typing experience
- Metal body
➖ Cons
- Noisy
Interface and Type: USB and Wired | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Palm Rest: Yes | Type: Mechanical
The Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2 is one of the best mechanical keyboards for Linux.
This keyboard has one of the most comfortable wrist rests. And the typing experience it provides is not only great but has a nice feeling to it when you press down the keys. However, the keys are noisy.
The Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2 is a keyboard that allows you to type code and more for long periods.
When it comes to build quality, it’s one of the best. Made from metal. The Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2 will last several years. You can also easily replace the keys when they are worn out.
Overall, the Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2 is a solid mechanical keyboard for Linux. You can use this for work and play. Highly-recommended.
Where To Buy
➕ Pros
- Mouse included
- Compact size
- Budget-friendly
- Responsive and comfortable
➖ Cons
- Mouse included could be better
- Cheap plastic build
Interface and Type: USB Wireless | Keyboard backlighting: No | Palm Rest: No | Type: Chiclet
The Logitech MK235 is not a fancy keyboard. No RGB, no cool functions and wrist pad.
But, it’s one of the best budget keyboards for Linux that will get the job done. Because it does what a basic keyboard should do very well.
The typing experience is top-notch. Responsive keys that are well-spaced and that means easier typing and high accuracy. Plus, the typing experience is comfortable.
The keyboard is compact in size. And won’t take up a lot of space on your desk.
The Logitech MK235 is a budget wireless keyboard. And so there will be some compromises.
The free mouse included isn’t that great though. Still a great addition to the keyboard though. And the keyboard is made from plastic which feels cheap.
Fortunately, these are the only downsides.
To sum it all up, the Logitech MK235 is an excellent affordable keyboard for Linux, Unix and Ubuntu. It does what a basic keyboard should do and well.
A wonderful keyboard that is easy on the hands and can be typed on for long hours.
➕ Pros
- Small, compact and portable
- Excellent build quality.
- Superb typing experience.
- Wide variety of switch types available.
➖ Cons
- No arrow keys
- LEDs are not bright
Interface and Type: USB, Bluetooth Wired and Wireless | Keyboard backlighting: Yes | Palm Rest: No | Type: Mechanical
The Anne Pro 2 is one of the most popular 60% keyboards for Linux users. Not only is it a Linux compatible keyboard.
The build quality is one of the best out there. Made from plastic, the frame feels solid and sturdy. The keyboard is also small and compact. You can easily carry this with you anywhere.
The downside is that there are no arrow keys. Typical of a 60% keyboard.
Anne Pro 2 provides a superb typing experience. The keyboard doesn’t make a lot of noise when you’re typing. And it has a wide variety of switches available.
You can customize the keys to your liking and improve the already great typing experience. The keyboard’s RGB backlighting and offers a lot of effects, but the brightness is not high.
For gaming, the Anne Pro 2 offers fast response time. It will register all the keys being pressed quickly.
If you are looking for one of the best 60% mechanical keyboards for Linux/Unix. Then Anne Pro 2 is a solid choice.
Final Thoughts
There aren’t many Linux compatible keyboards around. Hopefully, with this article, you won’t have a problem finding one of your choices.
That’s it for the best keyboards for Linux.
