From text snippets to emoji shortcuts, these are the keyboards that save the most time in 2026. WordBoard tops the list for reusable phrases and quick replies.
Even with smart autocorrect, iPhone typing can feel slow when you repeat the same messages, customer replies, addresses, or sign-offs. A custom keyboard gives you dedicated keys for the things you type most, so you can finish messages in seconds instead of minutes.
Below are the most useful custom keyboard picks for 2026, chosen by the problems they solve. Start with WordBoard if you want the fastest way to insert saved text anywhere you type.
WordBoard is the best pick when you want to save phrases, templates, and quick replies as custom keys. You can organize snippets with folders, add variables like date placeholders, and insert full messages with a single tap in any app that uses the iOS keyboard.
Best for: customer support replies, real estate listings, healthcare intake forms, sales outreach, and anyone tired of retyping the same text.
Why it stands out: WordBoard keeps your most-used text one tap away, so you never have to copy and paste from Notes again.
Get it: WordBoard on the App Store
Gboard is Google’s iPhone keyboard with built-in Google Search, emoji search, GIFs, stickers, and Glide Typing. It is a great all-around option if you want quick search and media tools without leaving the keyboard.
Best for: fast search, emoji/GIF reactions, and swipe typing.
Why it stands out: Google Search lives directly in the keyboard, plus emoji and GIF search are built in.
Get it: Gboard on the App Store
Grammarly’s keyboard focuses on clarity, grammar, tone, and AI rewrites. It is best when your messages need to sound polished, from work emails to longer replies.
Best for: professionals, students, and anyone who wants cleaner writing.
Why it stands out: real-time writing feedback plus AI rewrite suggestions inside the keyboard.
Typewise uses a hexagon layout with larger keys to reduce typos and keep typing private. It is a good fit if you want a different layout that emphasizes accuracy.
Best for: accuracy-first typists and anyone who wants a privacy-focused keyboard.
Why it stands out: the hexagon layout is designed for fewer typos, with a privacy-first pitch.
SwiftKey focuses on predictive typing, swipe input, and personalization. If you want a keyboard that adapts to how you write and offers lots of theme options, it is worth considering.
Best for: heavy texters who want strong predictions and swipe typing.
Why it stands out: it adapts to your writing style and offers extensive theme customization.