Keyboards come in many shapes and colors. Although it is easy to get caught up the appearance, remember that functionality is more important. Don't forget to try out the keyboard to make sure it is comfortable.
Ergonomic Keyboard: If you plan to spend a lot of time on your keyboard, you might consider a keyboard that is specifically designed to better fit your anatomy. Your hands and wrists will thank you in the long run.
IBM PS/2 or Windows keyboard: Although both keyboards are popular, the Windows keyboard takes advantage of special features in Windows 95 or Windows 98.
Built-In Mouse: Some keyboards come with a built mouse. This could be in the form of a trackball, touchpad, or trackpoint. Although more convenient when built into the keyboard, the separate mouse is still more popular.
Keyboard mapping: This allows you to program any key to be any other key. For example you could program your ESC key to be the TAB key. Believe it or not, some software applications require "multi-key" combinations, and that's where this feature comes in handy.
AT or PS/2 connector: Also known as 5-pin DIN or 6-pin mini-DIN. Remember to check your PC's keyboard connector to make sure you buy the right type of connector on your new one.
Dvorak keyboard: This keyboard is designed to improve typing efficiency. The regular QWERTY keyboard was deliberately designed to slow you down. It was originally designed for the old mechanical typewriters when people could type faster than the machine could handle. The Dvorak keyboard put most frequently occurring letters on the home row.