Having an old PC doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on the quality or functionality of peripherals, including keyboards. Today, we will guide you through a list of the best modern keyboards ideal for old PCs with high-quality features. In making this selection, we considered factors such as overall performance, durability, reliability, technology compatibility, and user satisfaction.
1. Ducky One 2 Mini:
Ducky One 2 Mini is notable for its great build quality, compact size, and excellent performance. This 60% keyboard features Cherry MX switches for a satisfying tactile or linear feel, depending on the variant you choose, and PBT keycaps for durability. With USB Type-C connectivity, it is compatible with old PCs using a USB port. The keyboard has six DIP switches at the bottom that can change the layout and other features—a perfect blend of modern design and old PC compatibility.
2. Logitech K840 Mechanical Keyboard:
If you’re looking for a full-sized mechanical keyboard for your old PC, Logitech K840 is a superb choice. It’s equipped with the company’s Romer-G mechanical switches, delivering rapid response to your typing and gaming demands. The aluminum build gives stability, and it connects via a USB Type-A connection. Logitech keyboards have always been renowned for their reliability, and the K840 is no exception.
3. SteelSeries Apex Pro:
The SteelSeries Apex Pro keyboard offers several modern features like custom actuation, an OLED smart display, and programmable keys via the SteelSeries Engine software. However, despite these cutting-edge features, the Apex Pro maintains excellent compatibility with old PCs. Its USB pass-through port allows users to connect the keyboard and another USB device to your computer through the same cable.
4. Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard:
If you’re using an old PC primarily for word processing or other typing-heavy tasks, then an ergonomic keyboard like the Microsoft Sculpt might be for you. Its domed keyboard design reduces wrist pronation, and the split layout promotes a more natural hand, wrist, and forearm position. The separate number pad provides added flexibility. The Sculpt uses a wireless connection with a USB dongle, making it ideal for old PCs.
5. Corsair K95 RGB Platinum:
The Corsair K95 RGB Platinum is a feature-rich mechanical keyboard that can greatly enhance your old PC’s gaming capabilities. It sports Cherry MX speed silver switches for lightning-fast actuation, sturdy PBT double-shot keycaps, a USB pass-through port, and an RGB lighting system customizable through the Corsair iCUE software. Despite the modern features, it retains compatibility with old PCs thanks to the standard USB Type-A connection.
6. Das Keyboard 4 Professional:
Known for their high-quality build and satisfying typing experience, Das Keyboards are indeed a great fit for old PCs. The Das Keyboard 4 Professional, specifically, is a full-sized mechanical keyboard featuring Cherry MX switches for a top tier typing experience. It uses USB Type-A connectivity and even includes two USB 3.0 SuperSpeed hub ports, perfect for connecting additional peripherals to your old PC.
7. Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2:
This compact, minimalist—the Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional 2—provides excellent performance, especially for coders and programmers. It uses Topre switches, providing a unique and satisfying typing experience. A distinct feature is the DIP switches that allow users to change the keyboard’s functionality according to their preference. It connects via a micro-USB to USB cable, maintaining compatibility with older PCs.
8. Anne Pro 2:
The Anne Pro 2 is a compact and customizable 60% keyboard, excellent for any old PC setup. Notably, it’s one of few keyboards on this list that provides a wireless connection via Bluetooth, but it can also be wired using a USB Type-C to Type-A cable. It offers a variety of switch options, including Cherry MX, Kailh, and Gateron.
In spite of the vast amount of keyboards hitting the market daily, owning an old PC shouldn’t deter you from enjoying high-quality, modern accessories. Whether you’re a typist, gamer, coder, or casual PC user, these keyboards suit several user preferences and offer the flexibility of compatibility with older systems. Modernizing your old PC peripheral setup can be reasonably priced and stylish. No matter your use case, there’s a keyboard on this list for you. Regardless of what you choose, any decision would upgrade your old PC setup and improve overall usability.
