Best Keyboards for Photo Editing
Apart from desktop or laptop, keyboards are equally exigent in optimizing editing experience of those who are inquisitive or professional photo editor. Anything from resizing to cropping to applying effects are possible with these. This is especially true in the case of full-time photo editing that it is worthwhile to look for the best photo editing keyboards that will favor your work. So if you are eagerly pursuing which keyboard would be ideal for your photo editing, you should thoroughly have a look at this article.
Here I will describe 6 best keyboards for photo editing that are exclusively ideal in this matter after doing a large amount of research. These keyboards comprise dials that are extremely sensitive to minute changes, allowing for a quicker and more fluid workflow while also improving your artistic skills.
You may also read about Best keyboard for Graphic Design
6 best photo editing keyboards are mentioned below,
1.Loupedeck Creative Tool (our choice)
2.Loupedeck+ Editing Console (For adobe lightroom)
3.Logickeyboard for Photoshop (Easy to use)
4.Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic (Wireless combo)
5.Lightroom CC Keyboard (Wireless)
6.Logitech Craft Keyboard (Exceptional features)
Product Description:
Interface: Wire
Keyboard Backlighting: LED
Weight: 14.1 ounces and portable
Color: Black
The Loupedeck Creative Tool provides custom workflows for all photo editing and content development needs of the user. This model was designed for users who work in Final Cut Pro X, Adobe Lightroom Classic, and Photoshop CC with Camera Raw, After Effects, Audition, Streamlabs, Ableton Live 10, Premiere Pro CC, and Illustrator. Loupedeck CT comes with a collection of predefined tools and functions known as workspaces by default, so you can quickly learn about Loupedeck CT and start editing faster.
This keyboard was designed for professionals who work within a variety of creative settings and application and it is a premium grade tool that meets all their demands. Two customizable touchscreens with haptic feedback, a lot of customizable buttons, and plenty of anodized aluminum touchpoints.
Moreover Profile Creator Function is also available, which allows you to map almost every application to the Loupedeck for actions and changes, such as shortcuts, keys, delays, macros, text, links, running an application, mouse movements, and more. The Creative Tool from Loupedeck is compatible with Windows 10 and macOS 10.13 or later. It needs an external power supply and supports both USB and Bluetooth connections. A USB 2.0 port is included.
Advanced users will pre-program almost all of the keys to gain faster access to the resources they need. You can simplify your workflow with this photo editing keyboard by using a full-screen mode and other options provided by Loupedeck’s native apps.
>Pros:
●Stunning design Major Editing Software Supported
●Streamlines workflow
●Small in size, lightweight and portable with a removable USB port
●Plug and play systemized
●Customization options abound
●Works with a variety of applications, including significantly enhanced Capture One support
●Comes with predefined editing functions and tools known as workspaces and ensures faster editing
●Finest quality of aluminum cover, dials and touchscreens, LED backlighting
>>Cons:
●Quite expensive
●Lacks simple tilt adjustments
●Wireless networking is not yet provided at the time of publication (Bluetooth support will supposedly be patched in via software update)
Interface: Wired
Keyboard Backlighting: No
Weight: 1.48 pounds
Color: Black
Loupedeck+ is uniquely made with the purpose to work on more photos in less time because several editing feature can be used at the same time and many of the commands are executed immediately. It’s an editing console which is predominantly designed for Adobe Creative Cloud suite that includes lightroom classic and Photoshop CC with camera raw.
It supports Capture One software in beta form and it includes buttons, dialers and slides that gives quick access to various software parameters. There are no difficulties when memorizing its layout as its main keys and controls are quite easy to use.
There are controls for contrast, clarity and exposure and common functions such as copy, paste, undo and redo can also be executed through dedicated buttons. The console is available for both Windows and Mac.
It connects with the device via USB cable. In comparison to its predecessor, the console has a much better and more durable structure. It’s also easy to use the buttons, wheel, and sliders for intuitive and tactile editing.
The ergonomic nature of this Lightroom keyboard contributes to a more relaxed photo editing experience. It allows you to easily access all of the editing options. In full-screen mode, you can edit your pictures. Advanced options on the keyboard allow you to further customize it to your taste and it is suited more to those who operates full time editing.
>Pros:
●Well suited with many devices
●Ergonomic and comfortable shape
●Speeds Up Editing workflow and fast working key
●Easy access to common settings and functions
●Contains dedicated dials, wheels, and keys
●Especially designed for Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 6 & CC
●Easy-to-program
>>Cons:
●It has no wireless connectivity and
●Troublesome to customize.
Interface: Wired
Keyboard Backlighting: No
Weight: 2 pounds
Color: White
We won’t be far off if we mentioned this keyboard has a premium design and features, as well as efficient performance. This keyboard was designed a special keyboard with Apple shortcuts and it’s easy to set-up and use as no other software is required.
This keyboard is certainly ideal for all day easement and comfort for its soft touch keystroke. The ALBA has an integrated chip, making it a perfect option for all macOS users and since it’s a plug-and-play system the user doesn’t need to install any extra drivers. The designers chose to make a model that is easy to use and that can be connected to the device in a few minutes.
It has a built in chip that ensures quick setup. It features a well-thought-out design and ergonomic and comfortable shape. It’s possible to type at an 8.5 degree angle by lifting its legs or at a 4.5 degree angle by lowering them. With a 4mm key travel distance, the ALBA is ideal for photo editing activities.
It comes with two USB hubs with additional desktop expansion via built-in 2.0 full speed ports and for enhanced stability the keys are equipped with scissor switches. Its state-of-the-art scissor switch mechanism allows extreme comfort and responsiveness in typing and the wide surface area of the key allows low noise typing.
>Pros:
●Two compact USB 2.0 ports
●Easy to setup as plug and play
●USB wired interface and connectivity ( cord length 5 feet/ 1.5 meter)
●Enhanced Scissor-Key-Switches.
●Thin keycaps with sensitive and responsive touch
●Stays put – no slipping or sliding
●Soft, pliable, and yet extremely durable
>>Cons:
●Its price is hefty
Interface: Wireless
Keyboard Backlighting: No
Weight: 2 pounds
Color: Black
In the form of Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic keyboard, there is a package deal with enormous features that enhance photo editing efficiency. It may be of interest to photo editors looking for a simple way to encourage a natural typing pose. It will be particularly beneficial to those who are suffering from or wish to avoid wrist and arm pain. Creating a reverse incline to keep the wrists from turning downwards, resulting in less wrist strain. The keyboard also features a ‘dome’ shape that helps to minimize forearm pronation.
The build materials are appropriate. Although it is mostly made of plastic, the overall build quality is fine, and the keyboard does not flex. The incline riser is also plastic, although it feels noticeably less expensive because it might break if dropped. The keycaps are slightly textured, and the key legends are pad-printed, which can chip or fade over time.
Scissor switches are used on the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard. If you’re not used to these switches, you’ll have to exert a little more force to get past the tactile bump, and the short pre-travel distance can result in a few more typos. There’s no clickity-clack noise like you’d get with a mechanical keyboard because the keys are incredibly silent.
The compatibility of this keyboard is adequate. It’s completely functional on Windows, but shortcuts aren’t available on Linux. Scroll Lock, Pause/Break, calculator, shortcuts, and hotkeys are not functional on macOS. Only Windows users can use the Mouse and Keyboard Center app. To avoid typing accident, this product is highly recommended as the best keyboard for photo editing.
>>Pros:
●Ergonomic design with comfortable shape
●Stylish and easeful ‘Manta ray’ design
●The three-piece set can be used in a variety of ways
●Wireless USB receiver can be used
●This model includes a separate number pad that can be used to perform a variety of tasks
●Good typing experience
●Simple and easy setup
●It’s a well-built wireless peripheral with dedicated Windows controls
●Reasonable price
>>Cons:
●The keyboard has a steep learning curve
●The USB Adapter protrudes too far from the device
●Disposable batteries are used
●Setup takes up a lot of space on your computers desktop
Interface: Wireless
Keyboard Backlighting: No
Weight: 2 pounds
Color: White
Another best keyboard for editing photos is this keyboard that comprises an ergonomic model with a solid build if you’re looking for a more dependable alternative. Unlike the standard Photoshop keyboards that come with new computers, this one, despite its less-than-sleek surface, has a sophisticated appearance. This model will please those who have been using an out-of-date keyboard for years.
Two USB 2.0 ports on the keyboard allow you to attach peripherals such as your mouse, contour shuttle, or USB dongle. Two USB cables are included with this keyboard. One is for the keyboard, and the other is for the USB hub, which is located at the back of the keyboard. It is devoid of the silver highlights that were popular in previous designs. Microsoft has provided a respectable contender with this update, which includes a solid frame and a range of ergonomic features. When it comes to overall appearance and performance, it comfortably outperforms the Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard.
It’s made to work with Adobe Photoshop and lightroom exclusively. It is compatible with Adobe Lightroom 5. Adobe Lightroom 5 and its main commands can also be learned using the keyboard. Host Applications that are supported include: MacOS X v10 or later is needed.
Its extensive color coding and shortcut mapping functionality, this awesome device is one of the best photo editing keyboards. The keys are color-coded and include all of the Adobe Photoshop shortcuts. It’s difficult to remember shortcuts, so having a keyboard that shows you exactly what each one is will save you a lot of time and effort. It has the potential to boost your editing process tenfold.
>Pros:
●Ergonomic model with an edgy design
●Soft touch keys and they are color coded
●Provides shortcut mapping features
●USB connectivity and there are two USB ports on this unit with USB 2.0 interface
●Portable and wireless connectivity
●Saves time and effort
●No batteries included or required
●There are many shortcuts for different editing applications
●Enhances working efficiency
>>Cons:
●Quite expensive
Interface: Wireless
Keyboard Backlighting: No
Weight: 2.11 pounds
Color: Black
The Logitech Craft is one of the best photo editing keyboards on the market thanks to its simple dial and excellent design. The creative input dial is the best function of this keyboard for photo editing. In editing applications like Lightroom or Photoshop, this can be tailored for particular functions. The user may use the dial to monitor image scrolling or contrast, for example.
With a big aluminum piece running along the top of the board and a smooth matte plastic covering the rest of the keyboard, the whole thing screams quality. The chiclet-style keys have an inverted circular dome on each ring, adding to the luxury feel. This keyboard also includes a USB dongle for wireless use as well as a USB port for a wired link and it’s portable.
There is a large revolving dial mounted on the left side of a thick strip of aluminum above the keys. It’s a touch-sensitive aluminum piece that rotates and clicks to navigate basic app functions. Several members of the Adobe Creative Suite, including InDesign and Photoshop, are among the applications available on macOS.
The unique features of this keyboard exclusively benefits photo editors. For instance, it adds new features such as secondary menus for other adjustment functions like color, info, and toning, giving the user a lot more options. And it helps to get comfortable with switching between turn and touch motions in Photoshop. The Brush and Zoom functions on the artistic dial are the most useful.
It can link up to three devices at the same time, and the easy-swap switch makes switching between them a breeze. It not only clears up the desktop, but it also promotes a more reliable workflow and a sense of consistency.
Pros:
●Build quality is extremely good
●There is no flex noticeable
●Distinctive keys for both windows and macOS
●Facilitates major applications
●The keyboard’s build quality and design combine seamlessly, making it extremely robust, reliable, and precise. Less noise and greater responsiveness result from stability
●Two methods of connectivity is available: use of the included wireless receiver or pair via Bluetooth
●Backlit keys with light sensitivity
●Saves time and effort
●Portable
●Can significantly improve workflow
>>Cons:
●Quite extravagant
●Lacks wrist rest
●Apps that aren’t supported have limited features
●Battery life is perpetual
You may like more article about Best Mechanical Keyboard For Work
Final Verdict
Depending on your requirements, there are numerous keyboards available. These are all made to accomplish specific goals and they all have features that helps to enhance work efficiency in photo editing.
To have the best keyboard for editing you should consider what you can do with your device and focus on the features that will be most beneficial to your works. These keyboards carry many different facilities for different activities. If you consider where you’ll be using your console or keyboard, as well as what computer it’ll be connected to, a smaller compact keyboard is ideal if you do frequent outings. For that Loupedeck Creative Tool, Lightroom CC Keyboard and Logitech Craft Keyboard would be best selection.
Moreover if you’re looking for a favorable and low-cost keyboard for editing, Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic (Wireless Combo) would be a lucrative selection. And an 88-key keyboard would help those who want to explore more advanced options. Some versions have even fewer keys than 66.
Furthermore, The Loupedeck CT is much sturdier than previous models, while also greatly enhancing build quality.
Conclusion
It should be considered that what layout you need before selecting a keyboard. The majority of people choose full-size boards because they come with a complete set of keys. The best keyboard for photo editing has the advantage of not requiring you to memorize function keys and allowing you to quickly assess all of the commands. A full numpad is also included in these versions.
More importantly, it’s always a good idea to verify compatibility with the operating system you’re using, such as Windows or macOS, before purchasing a keyboard for photo editing. These keyboards mentioned above offer profound features especially for photo editing and indisputably delivers complete easement and comfort for the professional photo editors who need to work for a long time. These keyboards completely hold all the capabilities for being the best choice especially for photo editing. So, without wasting time, let’s see which one is better for you based on your preferences. Best of luck with your purchases!
