If you’ve ever struggled to type in dim lighting or wanted to add some visual style to your desk setup, a
backlit keyboard may be just what you need. A backlit keyboard helps in low-light conditions, making it easier to enter complex passwords or type accurately in the dark. But what exactly are backlit keyboards? Can the right illuminated keyboard help you improve your productivity? What environments are they best suited for?
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about backlit keyboards, including:
- What is a backlit keyboard?
- How do illuminated keys work?
- Do backlit keyboards improve productivity?
- What industries use keyboards with backlighting?
- Recommendations for great HP backlit keyboard options
What is a backlit keyboard?
A backlit keyboard is a keyboard that has small lights underneath each key, illuminating the keys from below. The lights are usually LEDs that shine up through partially transparent keycaps. Many keyboards offer customizable brightness levels and settings, with the backlit board design catering to different personal preferences regarding aesthetics and functionality.
Backlit keyboards can range from models with simple white backlighting to full RGB keyboards with color-customizable key lighting. They allow you to type in darker environments and provide visual flair to your setup.
How do illuminated keyboard keys work?
The backlighting itself comes from tiny, energy-efficient LED bulbs or light panels situated beneath the keyboard’s keys. The keycaps allow the light to shine through, but don’t hamper the mechanical components required for typing.
Most backlit keyboards typically do not require special software or additional drivers for operation. Instead, these keyboards can be easily connected via USB and are ready to use immediately, contrasting them with more advanced RGB keyboards that may need custom software.
The LEDs connect to software and hardware that let you manage the keyboard’s lighting behavior. So, when you adjust the backlight brightness, color, or effects, you’re changing the way those underlying LED bulbs function.
Do backlit keyboards improve productivity?
By making the keys clearly visible even in the dark, backlit keyboards can alleviate squinting and eye strain. This may allow you to focus better and avoid mistakes, improving typing accuracy.
In an office setting, a backlit keyboard can improve productivity if you:
- Work in a dark office
- Do not touch type
- Set it to a steady solid color, not too bright, providing just enough light to see the keys without causing discomfort
There is always an option to turn off the backlit feature during daytime when and if you don’t need it. It’s a great tool to have for flexibility.
Based on user experiences, backlit keyboards can help improve productivity. As one user noted, “Backlit keyboards actually do serve a specific purpose for me. I tend to use the computer in the dark with only light from my screen and I can’t touch type, so I do have to glance down at my keyboard to keep on typing properly.”
Which industries need backlit keyboards?
In a hospital environment, backlit keyboards can be extremely useful in operating rooms, patient rooms, and medical offices. As hospitals are open 24 hours a day, there is a need for keyboards with backlighting during the nighttime, especially when a patient is sleeping. These low light environments make it crucial to have illuminated keys for clear visibility and accuracy.
In a school environment or at home, you may need a backlit keyboard for those late-night study/work sessions. It is nighttime and the sun has set. You’re in your dimly lit room studying for your final exams. Most of the light in your room is coming from your
monitor and the light from your keyboard. You may need to occasionally glance at the keys on your keyboard to see the keys you are pressing. Without keyboard lighting, you may have to squint your eyes to see the keys which will affect your efficiency.
A backlit keyboard is also useful when you are in other poorly lit settings like a plane and want to get some work done. With the plane lights dim during overnight flights, you can use your backlit keyboard to be able to see the keys you are pressing.
Top HP laptops with backlit keyboards
HP offers several laptops with excellent backlit laptop keyboards. Here are some of our top recommendations:
HP ENVY Laptop 17t-cw100
The HP ENVY Laptop 17t-cw100 features a full-size backlit keyboard that’s perfect for working in low-light conditions. The keys are visible in low light, making it ideal for gaming and late-night work. With its large 17.3-inch display and powerful Intel® Core™ processors, it’s an excellent choice for professionals who need a desktop replacement laptop with great typing experience.
HP Pavilion Laptop 16t-af000
The HP Pavilion Laptop 16t-af000 offers a comfortable backlit keyboard with uniform lighting across the keyboard in a more compact 16-inch form factor. It’s an excellent balance of performance and portability, making it ideal for students or professionals who need a versatile laptop for both
work and entertainment.
HP Dragonfly Pro Laptop
The HP Dragonfly Pro Laptop is designed for professionals who demand the best in portability and performance. Its premium backlit keyboard, combined with a solid palm rest, offers an exceptional typing experience by supporting your wrists and enhancing comfort and typing speed. The powerful AMD Ryzen™ 7 processor ensures smooth multitasking. With its sleek design and long battery life, it’s perfect for professionals who need to work efficiently in any lighting condition.
Conclusion
Backlit keyboards offer significant advantages for users who frequently work in low-light conditions or simply prefer the aesthetic appeal of illuminated keys. They can improve productivity by reducing eye strain and typing errors, making them invaluable for night owls, students, and professionals across various industries. However, non-backlit keyboards also have their own benefits, such as better keycap quality and responsiveness, which some users prefer for typing in various lighting conditions.
HP offers a wide range of laptops with backlit keyboards to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a powerful workstation, a versatile everyday laptop, or a desktop replacement, there’s an
HP laptop with a backlit keyboard that’s perfect for you.
When choosing a laptop with a backlit keyboard, consider factors such as brightness control, color options, and overall build quality. With the right backlit keyboard, you can enhance your typing experience and productivity, no matter the lighting conditions.
About the Author
Zach Cabading is a contributing writer for HP® Tech Takes. Zach is a content creation specialist based in Southern California, and creates a variety of content for the tech industry.