Whether you’re a digital nomad or frequently travel for work, being constantly on the go can leave you with a less-than-ideal tech setup. Using your laptop keyboard can result in wrist pain and injuries, but bringing along a full-size keyboard is often impractical.
This is where travel keyboards step in. From mini models designed to fit in a laptop bag — and that deliver the same level of comfort as a full-size keyboard — to foldable or roll-up keyboards, there are plenty of options to choose from.
If you don’t want to waste time researching the myriad of models, check out our ranking for the best travel keyboards in 2023!
- #1 Best Overall: Logitech MX Keys Mini Keyboard
- Best Numeric Keypad: ProtoArc XK01 Foldable Travel Keyboard
- Best Touchpad: iClever BK08 Foldable Keyboard
- Best for Mobile Devices: Targus PKF00302US Ergonomic Foldable Keyboard
- Best Budget-Friendly: Sungwoo Roll-Up Silicone Keyboard
#1 Best Overall: Logitech MX Keys Mini Keyboard
- USB-C rechargeable
- Smart illumination (backlit keys light up the moment your hands approach)
- Designed for effortless precision
The Logitech MX Keys Mini is one of the most stylish and functional travel keyboards on the market.
It is designed to transform your workspace regardless of the system you’re using. You can pair it with up to three Windows, Mac, Linux, or Chrome OS computers. It also pairs with mobile devices running on Android or iOS, meaning that it’s the perfect keyboard for both your laptop and tablet or smartphone.
This mini keyboard is compact and slim enough to fit in a laptop bag or backpack compartment, yet it isn’t too minimalist to feel awkward while using it. The spherically-dished keys have the perfect shape to ensure fluid typing.
Smart keys include an emoji key that instantly opens your emoji window for seamless chatting and a dictation key for when you don’t want to type. The backlit keyboard also features smart illumination that turns on when your hands approach.
Style-wise, this keyboard is simply fashionable. You can pick from three different colors, including Pale Grey, Rose, and Graphite. These are the same hues Logitech’s Pebble mouse comes in, so you can create the travel peripheral bundle of your dreams.
A long-lasting battery is another highlight — you can use the keyboard for around 10 days on a full charge or for up to five months if you turn off the backlight.
The only downside is the price tag, but if you want a travel keyboard that’s built to last, the MX Keys Mini is a well-worth-it option.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The spherically-dished keys ensure fluid typing. | This travel keyboard is expensive compared to other options. |
| It is compatible with most operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, and iOS. | |
| Smart keys and illumination justify the steep price point. |
Check out the Logitech MX Keys Mini Keyboard on Amazon.com
Best Numeric Keypad: ProtoArc XK01 Foldable Travel Keyboard
- Foldable, portable, and wireless
- Full-size
- For Windows, iOS, Android, tablets, PCs, smartphones
- Sync up to 3 devices
- Black
If you work with numbers and prefer keyboards with numeric keypads, the ProtoArc XK01 Foldable Travel Keyboard is one of the best models to get.
This foldable keyboard features a tri-fold design for easy transport and unfolds into a full-size keyboard that provides a fluid typing experience. When unfolded, the hinges are designed to lay flat against a hard surface. However, they don’t lock, and the keyboard tends to curve out if the surface is not hard (e.g. when holding it in your lap).
The keys’ design is inspired by laptop keyboards, and typing is silent. You can use this keyboard in crowded spaces without bothering anyone, whether you’re in a library, coffee shop, or a shared workspace. The downside is that dirt can get stuck under the keys in spaces that are hard to clean. In the long run, this could lead to malfunctions.
That said, the keyboard is pretty durable, and it pairs with three Bluetooth-enabled devices at once. It works with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| This tri-fold keyboard has a compact dimension when closed, while the outer frame protects the keys during transport. | There is very little space under the keys, making the keyboard hard to clean. |
| This wireless keyboard pairs with up to three devices at once. | The hinges don’t lock when the keyboard is unfolded, so it is tricky to use it on softer surfaces. |
| It is compatible with four operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. |
Check out the ProtoArc XK01 Foldable Travel Keyboard on Amazon.
Best Touchpad: iClever BK08 Foldable Keyboard
- Bluetooth
- With sensitive touchpad
- Sync up to 3 devices
- Pocket-sized, tri-folded, and portable
- For iPad, Mac, iPhone, Android, Windows, iOS
- Silver
If you want a keyboard and touchpad in one so that you don’t carry a mouse, the iClever BK08 Foldable Keyboard is an excellent option.
This foldable keyboard has a tri-fold design similar to the ProtoArc. The body is made of lightweight aluminum and doesn’t weigh more than an iPhone. The aluminum case protects the keys when folded and becomes solid support when you’re using the keyboard.
You can connect the iClever BK08 to up to three devices at once — it is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Chrome OS computers, as well as Android and Apple devices. Both the touchpad and the keys are highly responsive for easy tracking and typing.
The main downside is the keyboard’s dimension when unfolded. While the size is similar to that of a full-size model, the touchpad takes up a lot of space. The actual keys are crammed in the remaining space and are slightly misplaced compared to full-size keyboards. This layout can be a nuisance if you rely on touch typing for fast writing.
That said, if you don’t mind a mini keyboard and would rather have a pad, this model is well worth the investment. You can get it in Silver or Dark Grey.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The aluminum frame protects the keyboard during transport. | The keys have a mini keyboard layout. |
| It is compatible with Chrome OS, Windows 8 and higher, macOS, Android, and iOS devices. | |
| The touchpad has a generous surface and is incredibly responsive. |
Check out the iClever BK08 Foldable Keyboard on Amazon.
Best for Mobile Devices: Targus PKF00302US Ergonomic Foldable Keyboard
- Split travel
- Wireless
- Rechargeable and portable
- For Android, iPhone, Microsoft & Apple tablets
- Blue and Black
The Targus PKF00302US Ergonomic is a foldable mini keyboard ideal for smartphones, tablets, and small laptops.
Its layout is very different compared to full-size keyboards, so you might have to get used to it before typing comfortably. After getting used to the layout, though, this keyboard is a pleasure to use. The ergonomic split is developed to reduce wrist pain and the risk of injuries, while the folded size is truly compact.
Similar to other wireless keyboards, this model pairs with three devices at a time. However, it is only compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows, so it’s not suitable for use with Chromebooks or Mac computers.
The keyboard comes with a built-in battery rechargeable via micro USB and includes a battery life indicator that lets you know when it’s time to recharge.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| This mini keyboard is ideal for smartphones and tablets. | The battery can only be charged via a micro USB cable. There is no USB-C port. |
| An ergonomic design prevents wrist pain and injuries. | It is incompatible with Mac computers and Chromebooks. |
| Most keys are large enough to ensure fluid typing. |
Check out the Targus PKF00302US Ergonomic Foldable Keyboard on Amazon.
Best Budget-Friendly: Sungwoo Roll-Up Silicone Keyboard
- Flexible, lightweight, and foldable
- Waterproof and dustproof
- Portable and easy to store
- Made of high-intensity and high-elasticity silicone gel, non-toxic and odorless
- Soft material allows for a discreet, silent typing experience
If you need an easy-to-transport keyboard but don’t want to spend a lot, the Sungwoo Roll-Up Silicone Keyboard could be the right one for you.
The keyboard is made entirely of silicone and it can be rolled or folded for easy storage or transport. Unfolded, it is about the same size as a full-size keyboard, but typing might require some getting used to — especially if you’re not a fan of mechanical keyboards.
On the bright side, the surface is fully waterproof and easy to clean, so you won’t have to worry about the keys getting stuck due to dirt trapped under. It is also compatible with Windows and Mac and with most types of PCs, including laptops, desktops, and all-in-one systems equipped with at least one USB-A port.
In fact, the major downside is the wired design. It goes without saying that you can only connect the keyboard to one device at a time, and you won’t be able to pair it with a smartphone or tablet unless you have a USB adapter.
That said, if you need an affordable travel keyboard for a desktop system or your laptop, this model is worth the investment.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| This silicone keyboard is fully waterproof and dustproof. | It has to lay flat on a hard surface or you won’t be able to press the keys. |
| Compatible with Windows and macOS devices | It requires a USB-A port. |
| You can roll or fold it to a very compact size. |
Check out the Sungwoo Roll-Up Silicone Keyboard on Amazon.
©Dikushin Dmitry/Shutterstock.com
How to Pick the Best Travel Keyboard: Step-by-Step
When picking a travel keyboard, there are five main considerations for most buyers.
- Design
- Layout
- Ergonomics
- Connectivity
- Battery life
Let’s break down each of these factors and see how they can affect your decision-making.
Design
There are three main types of travel keyboards: mini keyboards, foldable keyboards, and roll-up keyboards. Mini keyboards are about the same size as the keyboard of an 11-inch to 13-inch laptop. These models typically have a slim design for an easy fit in a bag or backpack.
Foldable and roll-up keyboards usually unfold to a full-size keyboard dimension. Foldable models have rigid frames that improve the user experience. Roll-up models are made of silicone and are very flexible but are impossible to use on soft surfaces.
Layout
Another aspect to consider before buying is the key layout, especially if you’re used to touch-typing on a full-size keyboard. Touch typing refers to learning the position of each key and using the keyboard without looking at it. The problem is that touch typing relies on a sort of “muscle memory” of your fingers, so you won’t be able to hit the right keys on a keyboard with a different layout. If you use this technique, your best bet is choosing a travel keyboard that places each key in the exact same spot as your full-size keyboard.
Ergonomics
When buying any keyboard, it is crucial to consider the model’s ergonomics. A comfortable keyboard can minimize the risk of repetitive stress injuries and prevent wrist pain. While angled travel keyboards are challenging to come by, you can find them from top-rated manufacturers like Logitech. If you only use a travel keyboard sporadically, a flat model provides about the same comfort as a laptop keyboard.
Connectivity
Most travel keyboards are wireless, but not all use the same connectivity type. The vast majority of models are Bluetooth-enabled. They pair with Bluetooth-enabled devices, including smartphones and tablets.
However, if your laptop isn’t Bluetooth-enabled, you can pair it with a 2.4GHz wireless keyboard. These models use a USB adapter that acts as a bridge between your computer and the peripheral. Keep in mind that these keyboards are incompatible with mobile devices. In the case of wired keyboards, models with a USB-C plug are compatible with a wider range of devices.
Battery Life
Generally, wireless keyboards come with rechargeable batteries and provide days or weeks of runtime per charge. Most models turn themselves on and off automatically to prevent draining the battery between trips. However, some keyboards do have an on/off switch that you must slide manually, so make sure to check before buying.
What to Know Before Buying a Travel Keyboard
Travel keyboards are either mini or foldable. Mini keyboards are more durable (there are no folding parts that can break) and they are typically ergonomic. However, using them could result in more typing errors if you normally use a full-size peripheral.
Folding keyboards generally lay flat against a surface and are not the most ergonomic out there. However, most models unfold to form a full-size keyboard with the keys placed in a way that allows for fluid touch typing.
Some travel keyboards are designed with built-in touchpads that eliminate the need for a separate travel mouse. However, the touchpad usually takes up a lot of the available space, and the actual keyboard becomes a mini one.
To avoid disappointment, consider all these factors and choose the model that best suits your needs.
Using a Travel Keyboard: What It’s Like
Travel keyboards are a great addition to your travel tech bag. Most models are Bluetooth-enabled and capable of pairing with up to three devices at a time. Some include a touchpad so you won’t have to carry both the keyboard and a mouse.
High-end models typically have an ergonomic design, while others unfold to a full-size keyboard and allow for quick typing. With so many options out there, you should have no trouble finding the best travel keyboard for you.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©DionVideoProductions/Shutterstock.com.
