4 Best Wireless Keyboards for Linux Users in 2024 (Buying Guide)
Wireless keyboards are all the rage, as they make it possible to have a clean desk without cords. If you’re a Linux user looking for a good wireless keyboard, we’ve got you covered. Here are the 4 best wireless keyboards for Linux!
Linux support with wireless keyboards
Most keyboards have support on Linux thanks to the hard work of Linux contributors as well as the keyboard manufacturers themselves. However, there are some wireless keyboards that simply don’t work on Linux very well.
In this list, we’ve been careful to find wireless keyboards that support Linux via plug-n-play driver support in the Linux kernel. That said, 100% of Linux operating systems may support the keyboards on this list. For best results, try using a mainstream Linux OS like Ubuntu Linux or Fedora, or Linux Mint.
Best Wireless Keyboards for Linux
Here’s what our research revealed when we reviewed the best wireless keyboards for Linux users.
1. Logitech MK270 Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo
If you’re trying to find an excellent wireless keyboard for your Linux PC, consider the Logitech MK270. It’s a full-sized wireless keyboard. it comes with a Numpad (something that nobody should live without on a keyboard) and has various hotkeys that users can program to increase productivity. And, as a bonus, it comes with a nice wireless mouse too!
In terms of wireless connectivity, the MK270 uses a 2.4 GHz signal that ensures you keep a stable connection with your PC.
On Linux, the MK270 works out of the box, as all Logitech devices do. The keyboard is powered by AAA batteries, and the mouse is powered with a single AA battery (both of which are included).
Overall, the devices are both very efficient with power and you should see quite a lot of power before needing to recharge.
Pros
- Logitech makes quality products that always support Linux in one way or another, and do not require a driver to use.
- Comes with a free mouse at no extra cost to the user.
- Batteries are included in the package so users don’t need to spend extra on batteries to start using their new wireless keyboard and mouse.
Cons
- Key macros, while neat, don’t have direct support on Linux. Users will need to install a third-party app like Solaar to use it.
- No direct support from Logitech with a configuration app. Must install a third-party app like Solaar to get the most out of the device.
2. Logitech MK235 Wireless Keyboard and Mouse
Coming in at number 2, we have the MK235 — another Logitech MK series wireless keyboard.
Much like the MK270 in #1, it is a full-sized wireless keyboard and mouse combo. Because this device is created by Logitech, you can be sure that it’s supported on a wide variety of Linux operating systems, and even Chrome OS! However, there are a few differences. The key one being that unlike the MK270, the MK235 does not come with programmable button combos. That said, it’s still a great pickup, and it makes up for the lack of programmable buttons by including function keys, such as media controls, email buttons, volume controls, etc.
The MK235 has an impressive wireless configuration, and Logitech says that the wireless signal is encrypted over 128-AES over a 2.4 GHz dongle. The keyboard itself is powered by 2 AAA batteries, while the mouse uses a single AA battery. Both of these batteries are included with the purchase.
Pros
- Logitech makes quality products that work well on Linux. Even if not fully supported via an app, no drivers are required to use the device.
- It comes with a free mouse that the user does not have to pay for.
- Batteries are included in the package, so users don’t need to spend extra on batteries to start using their new wireless keyboard and mouse.
Cons
- Lacks programmable buttons that users can use to make custom functions that can increase productivity.
- No direct support from Logitech with a configuration app. Must install a third-party app like Solaar to get the most out of the device.
3. Arteck 2.4G Wireless Keyboard Stainless Steel Ultra Slim Full Size Keyboard
Are you looking for a sleek, beautiful metal keyboard for your Linux PC? Check out the Arteck 2.4 G wireless keyboard.
It’s full-sized, includes a Numpad, media controls, volume controls, and a huge battery all packed into a steel chassis. Best of all, the company behind the Arteck wireless keyboard promise that no drivers are necessary, even on Linux! Just plug it in and go!
Like many of the other keyboards talked about on this list, the Arteck 2.4G wireless keyboard connects wirelessly to Linux via an included 2.4 GHz dongle. However, what sets it apart is that it is powered by a powerful 6-month rechargeable battery. If you’re sick of buying disposable batteries for your devices, this keyboard could be for you!
Pros
- The stainless steel design means the keyboard will be harder to get dirty and will last a long time.
- No need to buy batteries as the keyboard is rechargeable and lasts for 6-months.
Cons
- Unclear if the built-in battery is replaceable.
4. Wireless Keyboard and Mouse, Jelly Comb 2.4G Slim Compact Quiet Small Keyboard and Mouse Combo
Need a compact keyboard for your Linux setup and want something wireless? Check out the Jelly Comb compact wireless keyboard. It’s a slim, compact keyboard that only includes the essential buttons to save space. And, it comes with a wireless mouse, so no need to go out of your way to get one in addition to the keyboard.
The Jelly Comb wireless keyboard connects to Linux like most other wireless keyboards, through a USB 2.4 GHz wireless dongle. The device itself is powered by 2 AAA batteries. The mouse also requires 2 AAA batteries.
Both the keyboard and mouse are very efficient with power usage, ensuring a decent battery life. However, these batteries are not included.
Pros
- Comes with a free mouse included at no extra charge.
- Devices are very efficient with power resulting in decent battery life.
Cons
- Batteries are not included in the package, which means users will need to spend extra on batteries before being able to use their new keyboard.
Conclusion
In this list, we covered 4 excellent wireless keyboards to use on your Linux PC. But these 4 keyboards aren’t the only wireless keyboards out there that are compatible with Linux.
What is your favorite wireless keyboard to use on Linux? Let us know in the comments below!
Logitech mouse support for Linux is simply aweful. I am using a Logitech MX Master mouse with Ubuntu and I think it is simply dreadful that it has no native support for Linux. It scrolls just terrible and if you want to make it work as good as it gets, you depend on external utiltilies like Piper or Solaar. I would never ever recommend Logitech mouses for use in Linux/Ubuntu.
I have also a Rapoo MT750S, a kind of Logitech clone and I must say that does a better job in Ubuntu than Logitech’s MX series. I think Logitech is just very arrogant ignoring the Linux community.
My keyboard is Microsoft natural 4000, a great keyboard for Linux, although designed for Windows at first.
Really, how fast did this article take you to right!? Four best wireless keyboard for linux….. So little thought put into this article. These aren’t “BEST LINUX KEYBOARDS”! All require third party apps/drivers to get working. There are better supported linux keyboards that work perfectly without solaar or any third party junk.
Keyboards for Linux with a Windows key…? It may make no difference to the functionality for Linux, but still…