Keyboards have been an essential tool for communication and computing for over a century. From the early typewriters to the advanced computer keyboards of today, the evolution of the keyboard reflects the advancements in technology and changes in how we interact with machines. This article explores the chronological development of keyboards and examines the average typing speeds associated with different types.
1. Typewriters (1868)
Christopher Latham invented the first practical typewriter in 1868 and was manufactured by Remington in 1873. This mechanical device featured a QWERTY layout, which was designed to reduce jamming by spacing out commonly used letter pairings. Early typewriters required significant finger strength to operate, which influenced typing speeds. Average typing speeds on these machines ranged from 30 to 40 words per minute (WPM).
2. Electric Typewriters (1920s-1930s)
The advent of electric typewriters in the 20s and 30s, such as the IBM Electromatic, marked a significant improvement. These machines used electric power to reduce the effort needed to strike keys, allowing for faster typing. The IBM Selectric, introduced in 1961, featured a typeball instead of individual typebars, which further increased speed and efficiency. Typing speeds on electric typewriters could reach 60 to 70 WPM.
3. Computer Keyboards (1960s-1970s)
With the introduction of PCs in the 60s and 70s, keyboards underwent another transformation. The first computer keyboards were adaptations of electric typewriters, with the addition of function keys and other computer-specific inputs. The Model 33 Teletype, introduced in 1963, is one of the earliest examples. By the 1980s, personal computer keyboards, such as the IBM Model M (1984), became the standard. These keyboards had a tactile feedback mechanism, which improved typing comfort and speed. Average typing speeds on early computer keyboards were similar to electric typewriters, around 60 to 80 WPM.
4. Membrane Keyboards (1980s)
The 1980s also saw the introduction of membrane keyboards, which used pressure pads instead of mechanical switches. These keyboards were cheaper to produce and more resistant to dust and spills. However, they lacked the tactile feedback of mechanical keyboards, which some users found less satisfying. Typing speeds on membrane keyboards averaged around 60 to 70 WPM, slightly lower than mechanical keyboards due to the different feel.
5. Ergonomic Keyboards (1990s)
In the 1990s, ergonomic keyboards were developed to reduce strain and prevent repetitive stress injuries. These keyboards featured split designs and adjustable angles to promote a more natural hand position. While they were designed for comfort, ergonomic keyboards did not significantly change average typing speeds, which remained around 60 to 80 WPM.
6. Mechanical Keyboards Revival (2000s-Present)
Mechanical keyboards experienced a resurgence in the 2000s, particularly among gamers and typing enthusiasts. These keyboards use individual mechanical switches for each key, providing a satisfying tactile response and increased durability. Modern mechanical keyboards are often customizable, with various switch types to suit different preferences. Average typing speeds on mechanical keyboards can exceed 80 WPM, with some typists achieving speeds over 100 WPM.
7. Virtual and Touchscreen Keyboards (2010s-Present)
The rise of smartphones and tablets in the 2010s introduced virtual keyboards, which appear on touchscreens. While convenient and portable, virtual keyboards generally do not support the same typing speeds as physical keyboards. Average typing speeds on touchscreen keyboards range from 30 to 50 WPM. Innovations like haptic feedback and predictive text have helped improve speed and accuracy.
The keyboard has evolved significantly from the mechanical typewriters of the 19th century to the sophisticated mechanical and virtual keyboards of today. Each iteration has aimed to improve typing efficiency, comfort, and speed. While average typing speeds have varied depending on the technology, modern mechanical keyboards and innovations in ergonomic design have enabled typists to achieve higher speeds and greater accuracy than ever before. As technology continues to advance, the keyboard will undoubtedly continue to evolve, adapting to new forms of human-computer interaction.