Top 5 Keyboards to Use with a Smart TV

Anyone with a smart TV knows how many features these televisions offer. Smart TV users can access applications, play music, stream content from the Internet, and surf the Web in addition to watching regular programming. To take advantage of everything a smart TV has to offer, current and prospective owners may want to invest in a few accessories, such as a wireless keyboard and mouse.

Although these accessories are not required to use a smart TV, they can make navigating and surfing the Internet quicker and easier. When shopping for a keyboard for a smart TV, prospective buyers should only consider wireless models because corded models must remain close to the television. Before making a purchasing decision, prospective buyers should check out these top five keyboards to use with a smart TV. Once a buyer has decided on a keyboard, he or she should check out the selection on eBay.

About Wireless Keyboard Technology

When shopping for a wireless keyboard, prospective buyers should understand that there are three types of wireless keyboard technologies: infrared (IR), radio frequency (RF), and Bluetooth. Each technology has pros and cons, so buyers need to determine which features are most important to them so they can decide which keyboard technology is right for their needs.

Keyboard Type	Advantages	Disadvantages
Bluetooth	Longer range, no frequency interference or line of sight issues	More expensive than other wireless keyboards
Infrared	Less chance of frequency interference	Short range; clear line of sight required
Radio Frequency	No line of sight issues	Limited range

Both IR and RF keyboards rely on a transceiver that plugs into a USB port on the smart TV, so prospective buyers of these types of keyboards should make sure they have a USB port available for the transceiver. In addition, buyers should determine how far apart their television and sofa are so they know which type of technology is best suited to that distance. For example, RF and IR ranges are quite limited at 6 and 12-feet respectively. Individuals with larger rooms may want to opt for a Bluetooth keyboard, which offers a 30-foot range.

Best Keyboards for Smart TVs

While most of the newer wireless keyboards are compatible with all of the smart TV brands, some keyboards offer features and functionality that users might want. This is why buyers should learn about the best and most popular models to see if they offer features they might use. For example, some keyboards feature a built-in trackpad, while others require the use of a wireless mouse for navigation. Another important feature that many prospective buyers may not realize is handy is backlighting. This can make it easier for users to use the keyboard in the dark.

1. Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard K750

A top-scoring keyboard on a number of blogs and tech websites including CNET, the Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard eliminates the need for batteries, which can get costly. The company states that the RF keyboard can provide up to three full months of use on one charge. The keyboard features a sleek design that is only 1/3 of an inch thick, making it easy to tuck into a drawer when not in use. The Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard recharges through sunlight or room lighting.

2. Logitech Wireless Illuminated Keyboard K800

Great for surfing or typing in the dark, the Logitech Wireless Illuminated Keyboard K800 features backlit keys and a USB port, and is another top keyboard according to many tech blogs. The keyboard boasts a rechargeable battery, which can provide up to 10 hours of use per charge, and comes with a micro-USB charging cable. The 2.4 GHz keyboard connects to Logitech's Unifying receiver, which allows users to connect multiple Logitech wireless devices using one receiver.

3. Logitech Keyboard Controller K700

Another Logitech offering, the Logitech Keyboard Controller K700 is specifically for use with smart TVs. The keyboard, which is a top-rated keyboard on several sites, pairs with Logitech's Unifying receiver, reducing the number of USB ports required for wireless device connectivity. Logitech's Keyboard Controller features a built-in trackpad, which eliminates the need for a mouse, and because it is specifically for use with smart TVs, it features several keys typically found on remote controls to make it easy to navigate while typing.

4. Samsung Smart TV Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard VG-KBD 1500

With a built-in touchpad and remote control function keys, the Samsung Smart TV Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard is another top wireless keyboard as stated on several noted tech blogs. This keyboard connects via Bluetooth with the television, so it does not require the use of any of the television's USB ports. This keyboard works with most Samsung smart TVs; however, it may not work with competitors' smart TVs, so those who do not have Samsung smart TVs may want to check compatibility before making a purchasing decision.

5. iPazzPort Mini Wireless Handheld Keyboard

This 2.4 GHz RF wireless keyboard is so small it can fit in the palm of the hand. The iPazzPort Mini Wireless Handheld Keyboard is ideal for those who want the functionality of a full keyboard without the full keyboard size. Touted as a top model by tech blogs and websites, this keyboard connects to the smart TV via a USB dongle and operates on three AAA batteries.. The iPazzPort keyboard also offers a small trackpad and remote control function keys, making it a three-in-one device.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Wireless Keyboard

Compatibility is the main factor prospective buyers should consider when shopping for wireless keyboards for their smart TVs. While some wireless keyboards work with nearly all smart TVs, others are proprietary or only work on select brands or models. If prospective buyers are not buying a universal wireless keyboard or a keyboard manufactured by the same company that manufactured their smart TV, they should check to ensure the keyboard is compatible with their television before making a purchasing decision.

Buyers should also determine which technology best suits their needs and whether they want a trackpad built in, as these are also major factors that affect the buying process. In addition, individuals who do not want to deal with replacing batteries every so often may want to invest in a rechargeable model so they do not have to bother buying and replacing batteries.

Buying Wireless Keyboards for Smart TVs on eBay

If you are ready to take a look at the listings on eBay, go to any site page and type wireless keyboards into the search box. Once the search results load, you can browse through the listings or you can filter the results using the options on the search results page, which include brand, interface, and keyboard type.

Before making a purchasing decision, prospective buyers should read through each listing carefully to determine the type of keyboard and its features, so they can be sure they are getting a keyboard with all of the features they are looking for. If a buyer is unsure about whether the keyboard is compatible with his or her smart TV, they should confirm compatibility before purchasing.

Conclusion

To take advantage of all of the functionality a smart TV has to offer, prospective buyers may want to invest in a wireless keyboard with a built-in trackpad or a wireless keyboard with a mouse. These accessories are fairly inexpensive and can make a world of difference when a smart TV user wishes to browse the Internet or find videos to stream.

Knowing about the various technologies and features helps prospective buyers sort through the wide range of wireless keyboards on the market and find the ones that have the options they want. Once prospective buyers have narrowed down their list of prospective wireless keyboards for their smart TVs, they should check out the availability on eBay for the best wireless keyboards at the lowest prices.