What Is a Waterproof Keyboard?
A waterproof keyboard can be rinsed, submerged, and even kept underwater for extended periods without sustaining damage. The electronics are completely hermetically sealed, preventing moisture and dirt from entering the keyboard. This makes these keyboards ideal for environments where liquids are frequently spilled, such as in production processes. Even a knocked-over cup of coffee is no problem.
Waterproof keyboards also continue to function reliably during intensive cleaning routines or exposure to contamination—especially when not only the electronics but the entire keyboard is hermetically sealed.
The Benefits of a Water-Resistant Keyboard
In environments where keyboards are frequently exposed to moisture, dirt, or dust, a water-resistant keyboard offers convenience as well as durability. The hermetic sealing protects the electronics, keys, and internal components from contaminants. When the keyboard gets dirty, it can easily be cleaned without risk of damage. In humid or dusty workplaces, waterproof keyboards last significantly longer than standard keyboards, allowing the investment to pay for itself quickly.
From a hygiene standpoint, these keyboards are also an excellent choice: pathogens and dirt can be rinsed away easily. If hygiene is essential in your work environment, make sure the keyboard is also resistant to cleaning and disinfecting agents.
Applications of Waterproof Keyboards
Waterproof keyboards are widely used in production environments with strict hygiene requirements, such as the food processing industry, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and laboratories. Hospitals, clinics, dental practices, and other healthcare facilities use them to support infection prevention, as contaminants can be easily removed.
They are also ideal for workplaces where dust and debris are common, such as woodworking, horticulture, or textile production. The hermetic sealing extends the keyboard’s lifespan and helps maintain a clean workspace.
Waterproof Keyboards from Man & Machine
Man & Machine offers a wide range of waterproof keyboards, all with an IP68 rating. The most distinctive models are the keyboards that are fully sealed in silicone. These include our Really Cool keyboard, Slim Cool keyboard, Really Cool Touch keyboard, and Slim Cool Plus keyboard. With these keyboards, liquids cannot penetrate beneath the keys. This makes them highly suitable for environments where spills and moisture must be taken into account. They are commonly used in cleanrooms involved in pharmaceutical production, laboratories, the meat processing industry, and operating rooms.
We also offer keyboards in which liquid can enter beneath the keys. However, because the electronic components are fully protected, these keyboards also carry an IP68 rating. They are equipped with a drainage system that allows them to be rinsed under a tap. The advantage of these keyboards is that they feel and type even more like regular keyboards, making them a great fit for intense usage. These keyboards are particularly suitable for environments where keyboards need to be cleaned regularly with disinfectants. Examples from our range include the Its Cool, Very Cool, and Y Cool keyboards.
What Should You Consider When Purchasing a Water-Resistant Keyboard?
Not all water-resistant keyboards are the same. A splash-proof model only protects against droplets, while a fully waterproof keyboard can be submerged for longer periods. The IP rating indicates how well the keyboard is protected against water and dust:
- IP68: completely waterproof and suitable for full submersion.
- IP67: suitable for rinsing and brief submersion, but not for extended periods.
- IP65: protected against splashing water.
Unsure which model is best suited for your application? Feel free to contact us—we are happy to advise you.
Certifications and Quality Requirements
Waterproof keyboards from Man & Machine all come with an IP rating tested and certified by an external test agency. In addition, they comply with key international standards to they are safe and reliable to use in all markets:
- CE/UKCA: Relevant for customers in Europe and Great Britain, confirming our compliance
- IP rating: indicates the level of protection against dust and water ingress. All our waterproof keyboards and mice are IP68, washable keyboards and mice are IP65 or IP67
- EN 60601: This standard is relevant in sensitive medical environments to ensure electromagnetic safety, reducing interference risks with medical devices
- RoHS: To protect human health and the environment, RoHS restricts the use of hazardous substances in electronics,
- REACH: Like RoHS, REACH limits the use of substances of very high concern in electronic components.
Why Choose Man & Machine?
Man & Machine has many years of experience developing waterproof keyboards for a wide range of environments. Every day, thousands of users rely on our products to work hygienically or to operate in conditions where moisture and dust pose challenges.
Our keyboards and mice are known for their high quality. Our engineering department continuously works on product improvements, innovation, and compliance with applicable (medical) standards.
Personal Advice or Requesting a Quote
We are happy to advise you in selecting the right solution for your application. We consider your work environment, cleaning protocols, and how intensively the keyboard will be used.
Please contact us by phone or fill out our contact form.
