After years of sticking with the familiar default keyboards, I checked out the third-party Android keyboards. My thumbs have been on a fascinating journey, switching between the newcomer FUTO Keyboard and the established giants, Gboard and SwiftKey.
Each keyboard promised a unique typing experience on my Android phone, from handy clipboards to AI-powered predictions and customizable layouts.
After weeks of tapping, swiping, and autocorrect battles, I’m ready to share my experience and reveal which keyboard won me over.
All three keyboards cover the basics
Core features like multiple language support, clipboard access, voice input, emoji panel, and personal dictionaries are now standard across most mature keyboard apps. FUTO, Gboard, and SwiftKey are no exceptions. All cover these basics reasonably well.
However, when you look past these common things, they feel different. It’s in these bigger, unique features that you see what each keyboard is about and how well it works for everyday use. Let’s go over them.
Gboard and FUTO nail the aesthetics
When it comes to looks, Gboard and FUTO caught my eye more than SwiftKey. Gboard’s Material You makeover is a standout, as the keyboard subtly shifts its color palette to complement my Google Pixel 8’s wallpaper.
FUTO also offers a small but thoughtfully curated selection of clean and modern themes. Each one feels well-designed, and I appreciate the simplicity of their aesthetic choices.
In comparison, SwiftKey’s theme options feel outdated. While the Fluent Dynamic theme is a decent attempt at a modern look, other themes felt less appealing.
SwiftKey has the best swiping experience
When it comes to swipe typing, SwiftKey is the champion in my experience. I’m amazed at how accurately it predicts the words I’m trying to form. Even when my finger movements are sloppy, it rarely misses the mark.
Gboard comes in at a close second. While its swipe typing is generally reliable and accurate, I had to correct it slightly more often than SwiftKey.
Swipe typing on FUTO keyboard is still a work in progress. Given that its swipe typing is still in alpha, it’s understandable that it’s not as polished as the other two.
Copilot is neatly integrated into SwiftKey
SwiftKey’s AI integration with Copilot impressed me. I can access Copilot from my keyboard to fix grammar and message tone (whether I need it to be professional, casual, polite, funny, or witty) with a single tap.
SwiftKey streamlines my workflow and helps me communicate more effectively. In contrast, I feel Google missed the mark with Gemini in Gboard.
While drafting an email to a potential client on the go, I might type a quick, informal message. With SwiftKey, I can use Copilot to change the tone to professional and ensure the email conveys the right level of respect.
FUTO is an open source solution
Security and privacy are where FUTO keyboard shines. It’s an open source solution. That means any security expert or researcher can review the source code, see how the app functions, and collect personal information in the background.
Since it runs offline, FUTO provides a level of data protection that the other two don’t. Your typing data never leaves your device. This makes FUTO a compelling option for anyone concerned about their privacy.
SwiftKey also has a neat incognito mode where I can instruct the keyboard to stop learning my typing habits.
Gboard and SwiftKey support GIFs and stickers
Gboard and SwiftKey support GIFs and stickers. I can search for a GIF or a sticker and elevate my conversations.
SwiftKey is a step ahead with Microsoft Designer integration. I can describe a sticker and create one to express myself in a more engaging and dynamic way.
FUTO keyboard only supports the emoji panel.
Gboard nails multilingual typing
Gboard shines when it comes to multilingual typing, which I’ve come to appreciate. It lets me type in multiple languages almost seamlessly, setting it apart. I can switch between languages on the fly without changing keyboard layouts.
Gboard intelligently detects the language I’m using and provides relevant suggestions and autocorrection. This feature is a huge time-saver for me, as I communicate in more than one language daily.
Choosing your next keyboard
My month-long keyboard experiment has ended, and a clear picture has emerged. Each keyboard brings its distinct strengths to the table.
Gboard supports Material You and has the most accurate voice-to-text detection. SwiftKey shines at swiping and prediction, while FUTO keyboard covers the basics and more with its open source nature.
Whether you prioritize seamless integration, predictive accuracy, or a privacy-conscious typing experience, I hope this month-long exploration offers some clarity.
The best keyboard is a personal choice. SwiftKey remains my go-to option, and it proudly sits on my phone’s home screen.
