A mini keyboard leaves out the number pad. It is roughly 11 to 12.5 inches wide instead of 17 inches or more, so the mouse sits closer to you, the keyboard fits a small desk or a drawer, and it travels easily. Mini keyboards differ more than they look. These are the choices that matter.
1. Connection
- USB-A cable: works with almost any computer. The PERIBOARD-409 is the plain, sturdy option; it is also made with a PS/2 plug for older and industrial computers.
- USB-C cable: the PERIBOARD-422 plugs straight into a USB-C port. The PERIBOARD-416 comes with both a USB-A and a USB-C cable.
- Wireless: the PERIBOARD-732 uses a 2.4 GHz receiver and recharges over USB-C.
2. Key type
| Key type | Feels like | Models |
|---|---|---|
| Membrane | A classic desktop keyboard with taller keys | PERIBOARD-409, PERIBOARD-422, PERIBOARD-326 |
| Scissor | A laptop keyboard: flat, quiet, short travel | PERIBOARD-332, PERIBOARD-429, PERIBOARD-432, PERIBOARD-416 |
3. Backlighting and legibility
- PERIBOARD-332: backlit keys with large laser-etched letters.
- PERIBOARD-429: backlit, 0.55 inches thin, with a metal surface.
- PERIBOARD-326: illuminated around the whole frame.
- PERIBOARD-432: no backlight, but large-print keys that are easy to read.
4. Mac or Windows
Most mini keyboards are labelled for Windows. The PERIBOARD-332M is the Mac version of the PERIBOARD-332, with Mac key legends.
5. Extra USB ports
- PERIBOARD-409 H: two extra USB ports on the side.
- PERIBOARD-416: four USB ports built in.
6. Keyboard and mouse sets
- PERIDUO-212: wired mini keyboard and mouse.
- PERIDUO-712: wireless mini keyboard and mouse with a range of up to 33 ft.
Before you order
These keyboards are sold in the US layout, and several are also offered with a Spanish layout; the product page shows what is in stock. If you want the pointer built into the keyboard, see our guide to keyboards with a trackball or touchpad.
Frequently asked questions
Does a mini keyboard have a number pad?
No. That is what makes it compact. If you enter numbers often, add a separate numeric keypad or choose a compact keyboard that keeps the number pad.
Which mini keyboard is the smallest?
The PERIBOARD-332 has the smallest footprint at 11.2 × 4.6 inches, and the PERIBOARD-429 is the thinnest at 0.55 inches.
Is there a mini keyboard with a USB-C plug?
Yes. The PERIBOARD-422 has a fixed USB-C cable, and the PERIBOARD-416 includes a USB-C cable as well as a USB-A cable.
Is there a mini keyboard for Mac?
Yes. The PERIBOARD-332M has Mac key legends and backlighting.
