The Best Keyboards for Video Editing 2020

Whether you’re a die-hard gamer, a programmer, or just love typing, your keyboard plays a big part in your life. Video editors, especially, require a keyboard that’s versatile, quick, and reliable.

I made a list of the best keyboards for video editing 2020. As I was reviewing these keyboards, I looked into several factors, such as shortcuts, backlighting, and design. A state-of-the-art keyboard that doesn’t only look good, but works to boost your video editing abilities.

There are video editing specific keyboards available, which usually are mapped with keys to each software, but the problem is it may be a bit distracting if you want to use any other software that does not share the same shortcuts, that is why I don’t include them. I included here keyboards that can be used in any program and can be workable outside of video editing.

I also omit here all of the additional accessories(except one) that you can buy to speed up your editing process. I will make another post describing those in detail.

So let’s dive in!

The Best Video Editing Keyboards

Good and reliable keyboard is very important to every video editor, all of the shortcuts and functions easily accessible and plainly in front of you can make your editing process more enjoyable and speedy. Now you can easily find the one that best suits your video editing needs. I concentrated here on full keyboards not necessarily accessory for quick editing. Another good thing to look into is a very good mouse, combining a perfect keyboard and functional mouse is the best you can do to elevate the speed of your edits.

Corsair K95 – Best Overall

The Corsair K95 is a full-size mechanical keyboard. It’s wired and has built-in multimedia control elements. This keyboard is ergonomically designed and comes with a detachable soft-touch wrist rest. 6 programmable buttons on the side are super helpful in either starting applications or to use in software for any more complicated functions.

One of the features I enjoyed was its CHERRY MX Speed key switches. Then there’s the Corsair iCUE software, which gave me control over the lighting via its sophisticated macro programming.

The keyboard’s multicolor RGB keys are what made it stand out for me. I found it easy to color-coordinate my shortcuts. With this feature, I could also assign each key to its own color and intensity. So in theory you could program it to show the color scheme of the shortcuts for each video editing software you are using.

It’s made with brushed aluminum to ensure its durability and strong frame.

Pros

• Multicolor backlighting
• CHERRY MIX key switches
• Built-in multimedia control elements
• 6 programmable buttons
• Anodized brushed aluminum frame for durability

Cons

• iCUE software isn’t user-friendly
• Expensive

Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard or Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic

Designed to relieve joint stress, the Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard offers many great features. it has a classy, modern design that doesn’t cause any pressure on your wrists. I also like the fact that it can be adjusted to tilt slightly for a more comfortable fit.

This keyboard provides a variety of built-in shortcut keys. They include some keys for screenshots, emoji, and Office apps, which I found that could be useful from time to time.

The new version of this classic is the Sculpt series, which is a bit better looking, few adjustments in design but it doesn’t have the long press of keys as the old one did. It’s much shallower and less satisfactory. You can find in wireless too if you want to.

Pros

• Ergonomically designed
• Adjustable tilt
• Built-in shortcut keys
• Durable
• Affordable price

Cons

• Software isn’t compatible with Windows 10 S Mode

Logitech K780 – Your Travelling Companion

The Logitech K780 is designed mainly for those who travel yet still want a first-rate typing experience. It’s a full-sized keyboard, yet it’s still lightweight and easy to carry.

One feature I enjoyed is its ability to connect to your tablet, computer, and even your smartphone using a USB cable or via Bluetooth.
What’s even more amazing about this keyboard is that you connect all three devices at the same time. I didn’t waste any time switching between them with the ‘easy switch’ button on the keyboard.

There’s also a number pad and a stand that held my tablet in place at just the right angle for working and reading.

It’s perfect to work on in airports or in hotels when taking your full sized keyboard is not an option, it was fast and responsive and certainly speeds up your editing process wherever you are.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable
• Supports multiple devices
• Has an integrated stand
• Affordable price

Cons

• Requires AA batteries
• Keys are a bit crammed together

Companion to Your Keyboard – Elgato Stream Deck

I believe this keyboard companion is one of the most versatile and reliable video editing add-ons out there. I can set up customizable buttons with the icons I prefer. This way, I can edit my videos without the hassle of remembering where each key is every time.

One of the features I like about the Elgato is it’s light and compact. It goes into my laptop bag without a hitch, allowing me to take it wherever I please. You can check some more of the equipment I usually take with me on the road here.

It’s available in 3 design choices: 6 keys, 15 keys, or the 32-key version. The Elgato keyboard provides unlimited control to any of your video editing software.

Pros

• Easy setup
• Lightweight travel size
• Streamlined configuration
• Durable design

Cons

• Display is always on
• USB cable is fixed to the device
• Expensive

Video Editing Keyboards: A Buyer’s Guide

Knowing what to look for when choosing a keyboard is important. Read ahead for some tips to help you out.

Layout

I love a well-laid out keyboard with the traditional QWERTY letter keys in place. As to the numeric pad, that depends on whether you usually enter data or tally numbers.

Then there’s the directional arrows, Page Up and Down keys, and the Home and End buttons. You can also go for media-file control features, which are usually located above the top row of the Function (Fn) keys.

Most video editors I know appreciate a keyboard with a good dial or roller to control the volume.

Design

Manufacturers now make it a point to help reduce joint problems by designing their keyboards for greater comfort. These keyboards reduce pressure on the tendons of your hand and wrist, hence preventing joint inflammation.

Wired vs. Wireless

The most basic way to connect a keyboard to your device is through a regular USB cable. It’s simple, easy to use, and, best of all, doesn’t require any additional software to set up.

Another reason why USB connections are hassle-free is that they help power your keyboard. You don’t’ have to worry about batteries having to be replaced or recharged.

On the other hand, wireless keyboards give you more freedom. You don’t’ feel like you’re tied to your devices.

But it may not be the best choice for video editing, usually the stability and reliability of wired one surpasses wireless.

Wireless keyboards can be connected via two ways:

• A standard Bluetooth connection
• An RF connection to a small USB dongle

My Top Pick

For me, my top pick is the Corsair K95. It has a high-quality build and gave me a great typing experience. I also enjoyed the media controls and key switches as did the 6 programmable buttons. If the price is not a problem for you, go for this one.

As a runner-up, I’d have to go with the Logitech K780. It’s light, portable, and compact, without comprising its full-size. This keyboard made it easy for me to connect several devices at once. I could also switch back and forth, which boosted my productivity. I was also happy with its affordable price.

If you want to check something else that would be more of a helpful companion to your keyboard or even a replacement altogether, check the Loupedeck +, it does work in many different software, it’s programmable, and it could be of great help to some of you:

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