1. RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 Wireless 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Ultra-Compact 60 Keys Bluetooth Mechanical Keyboard with Programmable Software (Blue Switch, White) 4.6 out of 5 stars 5,989 $54.99.
2. The best keyboard for gaming that we've tested is the SteelSeries Apex Pro. This full-sized keyboard has an aluminum body that makes it feel very well-built and durable. It has good ergonomics thanks to the detachable wrist rest, and it should feel comfortable enough for long gaming sessions. It also comes with full RGB backlighting.

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Best keyboard for 2021. There are three programmable hotkeys at the top left, followed to the right by a row of media controls and quick-launch buttons for the calculator, screen snips.

We are taking a look at the best synthesizer keyboards available in 2021. The best synth keyboard will be the one that feels best to play on stage, so we will make our choices with performers in mind. Areas that we will focus on are a great feeling keyboard and an intuitive workflow; a great sound goes without saying. If you spend more time on stage than in the studio, this list should be your go-to guide. Now, let’s check out some amazing synths.

Here are the best synthesizer keyboards 2021:

1. Sequential Prophet X

The one that does everything

The Prophet range from legendary high-end synthesizer builder Dave Smith has been a front runner in this market forever, it seems. Admittedly, we are starting at the deep end here; the Prophet X is a high-end, professional synth, and expectedly expensive.

The Prophet X combines analog with sample-based synthesis in collaboration with 8Dio. 8Dio is a company known to be experts in what they call deep sampling. At the heart of the Prophet X, you have a 61-key, semi-weighted, 32-note polyphony synth with two high-resolution digital oscillators. Although being digitally controlled, everything runs through analog filters for a truly authentic experience.

The synth engine provides the classic sine, saw, or pulse waveforms that you expect from a Prophet, this time with even more flexibility. You can manually change the width of any waveform or use one of four LFOs, four loopable envelope generators, or the 16-slot mod matrix to add texture. The sample engine runs on 150 GB of sample content from 8Dio with an additional 50 GB of space to upload your samples.

The Prophet X also comes with a poly step sequencer, which lets you record six notes per step for up to 64 steps. A dual effects engine provides two effects per layer, and there are some stunning phase, flang, distortion effects, and much more. As far as connectivity goes, you name it; it’s got it along with three OLED displays making it great for keeping an eye on everything while performing.

The Prophet X isn’t the most intuitive, so you might wonder why it’s our top-rated synthesizer keyboard. Well, it’s the combination of sound, creative potential, and ease of use. While it might not be the most intuitive on our list, it’s still surprisingly easy to navigate once you get used to it.

As sound design potential goes, the Prophet X competes with the very best, and the partnership with 8Dio sees the Prophet X outdo some competitors with more traditional voices like pianos, etc.

There is a 76-key version (Prophet XL) available that might be the best synth with weighted keys around. But, a weighted key synthesizer isn’t always the way to go when you want to play synth bass, leads, or even pads. Our advice is if you can afford the cash layout, go for the 61-key Prophet X.

2. Novation Summit

The best synth around $2000

Novation had lots of success with its Peak desktop synthesizer; The Summit comes with two Peak Synth engines. At a little $2000, it’s not quite as expensive as Sequential’s Prophet X, but it’s still a top-end synth in every way.

It’s a semi-weighted 61-key, 2-part, 16 voice synth with some amazing analog credentials. Novation went with a true stereo analog signal path with dual analog multimode filters, analog VCAs, and analog distortion. The Summit is a modern synth that purists should love, too.

It uses three digital oscillators per voice, along with a noise generator. The Summit also offers two LFOs per voice with an amp envelope and two mod envelopes. The state variable filter allows pre-filter overdrive and post-filter distortion. There are 16 modulation slots per patch and an abundance of mod sources. The onboard effects are per part and include analog distortion, three chorus types, and 16 types of delay. As you can see, there is no shortage of modulation options, and that’s why the Summit is already a very popular synth.

The Summit has in common with the Prophet X that it’s still intuitive, despite doing very complex things. It feels great to play, not just the keybed, but also the keybed and simple hands-on control.

The Summit could arguably be number one on our list. It’s significantly cheaper than the Prophet X, and just as intuitive, if not more so. It drops to number two because the Prophet X has more to offer in sheer sound design potential. However, the Summit provides vast sound design potential in its own right and could be more than you’ll ever need. If that’s the case, then save yourself some cash and go for the Summit. It feels great to play, it’s easy to get around, and it’s exceptionally well built.

3. Roland JD-XA

The best 49-key synth

The JD-XA is for performers looking for something a little more portable. So, we will say right off the bat; the JD-XA is the best 49-key synth for the stage.

It’s an analog/digital hybrid synthesizer; max polyphony is 4 voices for analog and 64 voices for digital. The keys are velocity-sensitive with aftertouch that can create some great effects if used correctly. Roland is widely regarded amongst the best when it comes to getting the feel of a keyboard right.

The Roland JD-XA features a sophisticated 16-track sequencer, that’s incredibly powerful when performing solo or as part of a duo. It’s worth noting that not all synths of this size offer a sequencer, and more rarely, one of this high-quality. The onboard effects include two TFX processors and one MFX processor that delivers over 125 effects types combined. Effects can be applied globally or per part, and the reverbs and delays are particularly nice.

The analog and digital sounds come from independent sound engines, but everything can be routed through the analog filters. You get that beautiful analog warmth, but you also get some unique hybrid sounds. It also comes with lots of connectivity, USB for MIDI functions, CV/gate outputs, an analog dry output jack, a click output jack, foot pedal jacks, and of course, the main output jacks.

A potential flaw in the JD-XA is that some menu-diving is required, which affects the workflow, but it’s nothing too alarming. Also, for the money, the plastic body isn’t overly impressive.

The Roland JD-XA is a modern synthesizer keyboard that delivers beautiful analog and digital performance. One of the best things about this synth is that it brings out the players’ creativity because there are so many effects to shape the sound. The 16-track sequencer also inspires creativity when writing parts for your live performance.

On appearance, it gives a similar impression (size aside) as the RD-2000 (check out our review) with lots of lights and moving parts. It’s easy to assume that it’s overcomplicated in design, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. It’s that ease of use that makes it one of the best Roland synths, unlike the over-complicated Jupiter 8 (FYI the Jupiter 8 sounds amazing, it’s just not fun to use).

If there is a downside, it could be that it’s not that much cheaper than the larger Novation Summit. But, 49-keys isn’t a downgrade if that’s what fits your setup best. The JD-XA is out top-rated synth keyboard under $2000.

4. Korg KingKORG

The over-delivering underdog

The KingKORG is one of my personal favorites and criminally underrated, it’s one of the best Korg synths available. It’s a semi-weighted 61-key analog modeling powerhouse.

Compared to some 61-key synths, the layout of the KingKORG’s panel is quite bare. The simplicity of the top panel is one of its biggest assets. It’s an analog modeling synth built on Korg’s XMT technology (Xpanded Modeling Technology). From left to right, you will see the analog vacuum tube driver circuit, which lights up red when in use. The tube circuit adds a real analog grittiness to your voice that can be adjusted with a variable drive. Next is the effects section that includes a 2-band EQ, Pre-effects (amps, ring mod), Modulation effects, and reverbs/delays. Each are of the effects section has a simple set of knob controls.

The center of the KingKORG focuses on sound selection. It sports an LCD screen, master push encoder, and large sound type selection buttons. Lastly, you move on to the oscillators (three per voice), filters, and amp settings. Again, each section is intuitively laid out for simple interaction. The Oscillator and filter sections each have dedicated screens to save reverting back to the central display.
Another great feature of the KingKORG is that it comes with a powerful built-in vocoder. Beyond the layout, the keybed feels very good, not quite Roland JD-XA, but very good, indeed.

The KingKORG is the best synth for beginners on our list, but don’t assume that means that it’s limited. It may not offer the extreme depth of our top picks, but it has plenty to offer professional musicians. For performers who don’t want to spend a great deal of time creating sound from scratch, the presets available are awesome. Even if the presets aren’t quite what you need, it doesn’t take much to alter them just enough to be unique.

If you gig often, you’d be glad to hear the KingKORG is significantly lighter than many 61-key synths. Korg has made an instrument here that is probably the best synthesizer keyboard for around $1000.

5. Moog Grandmother

The best semi-modular synth

The Moog Grandmother is a relative newcomer from the synth masters at Moog. Many synths on our list, or indeed the sub $1000 price range, will be a digital/analog hybrid. The Grandmother is a fully analog semi-modular synth with a 32-key Fatar keyboard.

If semi-modular sounds like it’s venturing into more complex territory, the colorful panel layout takes care of that. Two analog oscillators offer the standard triangle, saw, and square waveshapes. Each oscillator has patch points for wave out, pitch in, while oscillator one offers PWM in, oscillator two offers Linear FM in. They also come with sync-possible frequency control.

A bipolar attenuator and a patchable 1-pole high-pass filter are available via the utility section. Some aspects of the Grandmother might be new, but there are still signs of the classic Moog architecture. That can be seen in the 4-pole ladder filter with key tracking and oversized controls. Modulation options come from the fully analog LFO and standard ADSR envelope sections. The only new thing in this area is the dedicated envelope sustain, which isn’t standard in all Moog’s.

One of the best surprises about the Moog Grandmother is the addition of a real spring reverb. This built-in reverb isn’t an emulation, it’s the real deal, and it’s gorgeous. In total, there are 41 patch points available, so if you have some more modular/eurorack gear, the options are endless. Remember, it’s semi-modular, so you can use it without any patching, it would just be a shame not to. Further connectivity comes from DIN MIDI in/out/thru ports along with USB MIDI.

The Moog Grandmother is still fairly new, and it might take some time for people to catch on. But, we think it’s going to be a very popular keyboard synth for performers. At 32-keys, you don’t get an enormous range to play with, but that’s kind of the norm with Moogs. Furthermore, anything you need to do with a Moog can be done with 32-keys or less.

What’s great about the Grandmother is that it has all the potential of a semi-modular synth, but it’s also very user-friendly. The layout is intuitive, so it’s easy to jump right in, and the keyboard feels great. If you do use modular gear in your setup, the Moog Grandmother could be the best portable synthesizer keyboard to bring it all together.

6. Nord Lead A1

The fastest workflow

Nord put out some of the best synthesizers for live performance year after year. The Nord Lead A1 continues that trend, and perhaps offers a more intuitive experience than previous models. It’s a 49-key analog modeling synth that offers convincing analog warmth with the convenience of a digital machine.

One of the instantly impressive things about the Lead A1 is the 24-note max polyphony that makes it incredibly playable. Adding to that playability is a lovely synth-style Fatar keyboard – as someone who doesn’ always love Nord keybeds, I really like this one.

The Lead A1 is all about providing a speedy workflow for live performance. Whether you are selecting presets or designing your sounds from scratch, everything is quick and easy. Any sounds that you use most often (presets or custom) can be stored in the liked list, which is a shortlist of your favorite sounds.

Nord has created a unique eight configuration oscillator block that provides lots of modulation options while remaining easy to use. The top-quality sound that comes with every Nord instrument is as impressive as ever here. There are vintage and modern sounds, from synth bass and brass to pads and leads.

It’s easy to split the keyboard, and you can also create stunning layered patches thanks to the Lead A1 being 4-part multi-timbral. The onboard effects include all of the usual suspects (reverbs, delays, etc) and are available per voice. Perhaps the best of the effects are the unison and extra fat unison modes, which can turn any sound into an absolute monster. Further modulation comes from a 5-waveform LFO and both high and low-pass filters.
The filter section continues with transistor and diode ladder filter emulations of Mini and TB-303. There is a handy mutator function that will modulate specific aspects of your voice by a set percentage. It’s an excellent way to create a random sound when you are stuck for inspiration.

At a glance, the Nord Lead A1 might look like a budget version of the A4, but that’s not the case. It’s a streamlined version, but it’s not about the cost, it’s about offering performers easier access to their most-used functions and sounds.

The Lead A1 doesn’t have too many hidden gems (other than unison modes), you get exactly what you pay for, an awesome performers synth. It lacks in certain areas compared to the KingKORG, JD-XA, or Moog Grandmother, but if you want a ready-to-go stage synth with no hassle, few will be better than the Nord Lead A1.

7. Arturia MicroFreak

The best portable synth

The Arturia MicroFreak is the smallest synth on our list, and it edges out the much-loved MircoKORG. We know not all performers use a synth as the central part of their setup, and the MicroFreak fills that gap perfectly.

The MicroFreak is an algorithmic synth with a rather unusual look. It doesn’t have a conventional keyboard; instead, it has a flat 25-key keybed. Initially, the instrument’s feel might take some getting used to, but it’s not long before it’s second-nature. The max polyphony is 4-notes with the Paraphonic button engaged, which is fine for a compact synth.

It comes with a 12-mode single oscillator that can emulate a range of classic digital or analog oscillators. The great thing about the 12 oscillator modes is that they offer fantastic variation from one to the next. So, quite often, you can find lots of versatility within a single preset sound.

The filter is analog, but digitally controlled and offers low, high, and band-pass modes. There are cutoff and resonance knobs to fine-tune the filter further. A single LFO is available, albeit less impressive than some other features of the MicroFreak.
The MicroFreak delivers all sorts of sounds, from organic pads to glitchy leads, and most things in between. It also offers some stranger, almost robotic sounds, and that’s part of the reason we love it.

The MicroFreak kept MicroKORG off our list because it’s something different and exciting. Yes, it has a strange design and a flat keybed, but that doesn’t mean it’s not easy to use. Once you get the hang of the flat keys, it’s such a versatile synth for something so small. The fact that it offers so much, and can be a secondary part of your live setup is fantastic.

As of right now, it’s our best portable synthesizer keyboard. It’s also the best budget synth keyboard under $500; you can’t go wrong.

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Conclusion

When you play digital pianos, you don’t need to think about LFOs or analog signal paths, etc. It’s just about playing, and let’s be honest, learning your instrument properly is a never-ending journey as it is. When you start to add synthesizers to the mix, it opens up a whole new world with endless sonic possibilities.

Our advice would be to keep it simple and walk before you run. If you are still getting to grips with the basics of the keyboard, don’t dive headfirst into a stupidly expensive synth. Start simple and learn properly; that way, you will develop a stronger understanding of how different modules work, waveforms, envelopes, and so on.
If you feel like your grasp of the basic keyboard is strong enough, then don’t be put off by the look of a complex synth. Your prior knowledge and enthusiasm will see you over the learning curve just fine. Once you get started, it will change how you make music, and you won’t stop!

James is a writer and musician with a passion for audio production. He is a lover of all things tech, especially the latest keyboards, synths, DAW’s, virtual instruments, and effects plugins. Musical interests include jazz, funk, hip hop, blues, and rock.

Whether you’ve spent the last year gaming into the night, working from home, or a little bit of both, your keyboard has been there through it all. The best wireless keyboard can be a convenient switch that eases movement and alleviates wrist strain. A wireless keyboard also minimizes desk clutter—a perk for gamers looking to curate an impressive wireless setup.

As we spend more time working remotely, it’s important to choose computer accessories that increase productivity and comfort. There are a lot of options out there for wireless keyboards, but we’ll help you find the perfect one for your gaming or office needs. It’s time to free yourself from cords.

• Best ergonomic keyboard: Logitech Ergo K860 Wireless Ergonomic Keyboard
• Best gaming keyboard: Logitech G915 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
• Best portable Bluetooth keyboard: Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard
• Best keyboard for Macs: Apple Magic Keyboard
• Best budget: Logitech K360 Wireless Keyboard

Features to consider when picking the best wireless keyboard

There are a few things to factor in when searching for the best wireless keyboard. A major consideration is how your keyboard will connect to your device. Some devices utilize 2.4 GHz radio frequency with a USB adapter, while others have Bluetooth pairing. If you’re someone who doesn’t want extra computer gear and needs to connect to multiple devices, you might opt for a Bluetooth keyboard. Can’t decide? You’re in luck—a lot of keyboards are both USB and Bluetooth capable.

If you’re looking to update your work-from-home computer gear, you’ll want to keep style, portability, and ergonomics in mind. When you’re working all day at a desk, a wireless ergonomic keyboard can improve your typing posture and lower muscle strain. Is the local coffee shop your version of home office? When working on the go, a wrist pad can add bulk, and a lightweight, portable keyboard will be a sleeker and more compact choice. Portability is also important for those using a Bluetooth keyboard to connect to tablets and laptops. Still a little unsure? We’ll walk you through the specifics.

Do I really need an ergonomic keyboard?

If you use a standard flat keyboard, chances are you type in some unnatural positions. A wireless ergonomic keyboard combines cordless freedom and smart design in order to provide a seamless typing experience. With split keyboards, curved structure, and slanted wrist pads, ergonomic keyboards enable your hands and fingers to rest at a natural angle. If you’re noticing pain after a long work week, it might be time to choose a computer keyboard with a gentler design. Go all-in by adding an ergonomic mouse to your setup.

Some people find that a lot of ergonomic keyboards look clunky or awkward. Fortunately, the best ergonomic keyboards retain style while providing that much-needed wrist relief, like our pick below.

Best wireless ergonomic keyboard: Logitech Ergo K860 Wireless Ergonomic Keyboard

The ergonomist-approved Logitech keyboard is made for relaxing and natural typing posture. The best wireless ergonomic keyboard has all the ergonomic perks: a pillowed wrist rest with 54% more wrist support than normal keyboards, an adjustable palm lift, and scooped keys that compliment your fingertips. This Logitech wireless keyboard is fully compatible with MacOS and PC and connects with a USB receiver or Bluetooth.

What is the best wireless gaming keyboard?

Gamers might be apprehensive about latency in wireless keyboards, but the truth is that wireless gaming equipment has evolved past the days of lag. The best wireless gaming keyboard will have imperceptible delay with the same features you love—mechanical switches, RGB backlighting, and quick response time. Standard peripherals might restrict your fluidity and tether you to one position, while wireless allows you to sit back and relax.

Gamers should look for a keyboard that is engineered to handle intense gaming sessions and equipped with customizable G-keys. Complete that coveted wireless setup with our pick below.

Best wireless gaming keyboard: Logitech G915 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The Gamer’s Sidekick

Can be used for up to 40 hours on a single charge. Amazon

The Logitech G915 is a high-performance mechanical keyboard that will take your gaming marathons to the next level. This gaming keyboard features low-profile mechanical gaming switches, an incredible battery life, and fully customizable RGB lighting with LightSync. The G915 is light yet durable, with an aluminum alloy top case and a steel-reinforced base. This keyboard also comes with three options for switches—Clicky, Tactile, and Linear—and five programmable G-keys. It takes a mere three hours to fully recharge and is fully functional while charging via micro USB.

What if I want to travel?

When you’re multitasking and on the move, a full-size keyboard can hold you down. With a portable Bluetooth keyboard, you can switch between devices with ease and travel without extra weight or tangled cables. The best Bluetooth keyboards are universally compatible with most devices and compact—perfect for those who hunker down with a laptop, tablet, and iPad. You’ll want to look for a lightweight and durable design with a long-lasting battery.

Whether you’re travelling to the office or a different corner of the living room, you need a slim keyboard that can handle the journey.

Best portable Bluetooth keyboard: Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard

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Logitech’s versatile keyboard has three pairing channels that you can switch between at the touch of a button, meaning you don’t have to fuss over Bluetooth pairing every time you swap devices. The K380 comes with pre-installed AAA alkaline batteries and has an expected battery life of two years. Depending on your usage, you won’t have to worry about power until it’s time to replace the batteries. Similar to ergonomic keyboards, the K380 has sculpted keys that mirror the shape of your fingertips, a design choice that makes for fluid and quiet typing. This Bluetooth keyboard is a convenient and modern solution that won’t hold you back. And yes, it also comes in pink.

What about a wireless keyboard for Mac?

Mac users, we didn’t forget you. You don’t always have to buy from Apple, as the majority of USB and Bluetooth keyboards are compatible with Mac computers, but you will want to make sure that any keyboard you choose fully supports Mac’s native keyboard layout. The best wireless keyboards for Mac seamlessly connect to multiple Apple devices and last for months between charges.

If you own a Mac, chances are you’re looking for a keyboard that matches their minimalist aesthetic, like our recommended pick.

Best for Mac: Apple Magic Keyboard

The Classic

Compatible with iPhones, iPads, laptops, and, believe it or not, even some iPods. Amazon

The best wireless keyboard for Mac? The Apple Magic Keyboard is a sleek and compact device that doesn’t require any extra configuration. The Magic Keyboard is built for precision and ease, with stable scissor switches, a low profile, and a sturdy aluminum frame. It has a built-in rechargeable battery and can connect with either Bluetooth or a USB cable.

Best on a budget: What you can get for under $20

We know that wireless keyboards can get pretty expensive, but there are some amazing, affordable options that don’t compromise on quality. If you’re searching for a budget-friendly wireless keyboard, you will want to make sure it is compatible with your system. Keep in mind that cheaper wireless keyboards might not be equipped with simultaneous Bluetooth and USB connection.

Here’s the best wireless keyboard we’ve that is still durable, efficient, and rings in at less than $20.

Best budget wireless keyboard: Logitech K360 Wireless Keyboard

This wireless keyboard from Logitech is reliable, sturdy, and customizable. It comes with six hotkeys and twelve programmable F-keys, and the USB receiver can connect up to six unifying devices to one receiver. The K360 is a real trooper—its two pre-installed batteries provide up to three years of use. Worried about security while working wirelessly? This keyboard protects your keystrokes with 128-bit encryption. Although this keyboard is technically compatible with Mac, it is much better suited for Windows users.

Best wireless keyboard FAQ:

How long do wireless keyboards last?

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How long a wireless keyboard will last depends on the model you purchase. A caveat to switching to wireless is that you will have to either charge your keyboard or replace the batteries at some point. Some keyboards run on built-in rechargeable batteries, while others just take battery replacements after they wear out. For example, the Logitech K380 we mentioned previously is expected to last for two years before requiring new batteries.

How do I connect a wireless keyboard?

How you connect will also depend on the type of wireless keyboard you purchase. Your new equipment should come with a manual and specific instructions for connecting with either Bluetooth or USB. For most Bluetooth devices, you will turn on the keyboard, enter the Bluetooth section of your computer’s settings, and then pair your new device by entering a unique PIN. Some computers will require you to calibrate your new keyboard by pressing a few keys when prompted.

How should I clean a wireless keyboard?

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Keyboards are a notoriously dirty household item. The best way to clean a wireless keyboard without damaging it is with alcohol wipes. Make sure to power off your device before you disinfect it gently with a cloth dipped in water and isopropyl alcohol. If you’re worried about grime trapped between your keys, you can use a can of compressed air to push dust out of difficult areas.

Some final thoughts on finding the best wireless keyboard

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The most important part of selecting the best wireless keyboard is ensuring that it is right for your lifestyle. The best part of switching to wireless is how many options there are out there, whether you’re looking for a sophisticated wireless mechanical keyboard or a weightless Bluetooth companion. Enjoy your newfound freedom from wires.

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