WhatsApp is the messaging app of choice for millions of Android users.This app allows you to communicate quickly, easily, and easily with family, friends, or coworkers, but the typing experience can vary greatly depending on the keyboard installed on your device. Although many users rely on the default keyboard, the customization and additional features offered by alternative keyboards are leading more and more people to consider changing their keyboard in WhatsApp.
The ability to change the keyboard in WhatsApp allows you to experience new ways of writing, access emojis or GIFs, and enjoy advanced options such as gesture writing, smart autocorrect or aesthetic customization. In the Google Play Store has a wide range of keyboards, each with specific advantages and features tailored to different user styles. Choosing the right keyboard can be key to improving your experience on WhatsApp and any other app where you need to type.
In this detailed guide we explain to you How to change and customize the keyboard in WhatsAppIn this guide, we'll introduce you to the best keyboards available for Android, address common security and privacy concerns, and give you advanced tips to get the most out of your virtual keyboard. Plus, you'll learn everything you need to customize the language, appearance, and keyboard shortcuts to your liking.
Why change the keyboard in WhatsApp?
The number of keyboards available for Android has grown exponentially.This gives users the opportunity to choose the one that best suits their needs. There are keyboards for those who want to type faster, for those who prioritize emojis and GIFs, and for those seeking maximum visual customization or even smarter keyboards capable of adapting to each user's typing style.
Some reasons for change your WhatsApp default keyboard They may be:
- Greater customization: Change the theme, color, background, key size, or add your own photo to the keyboard.
- Advanced functions: Improved word prediction, smart autocorrect, gesture or swipe typing, sticker and GIF integration, support for multiple languages and special keys for shortcuts.
- Improved accessibility: Larger keyboards for people with visual or motor difficulties, or with additional keys for quick access.
- Privacy & Security: Choose keyboards developed by reputable companies, avoiding suspicious apps that can record keystrokes and put your data at risk.
Google's Gboard keyboard It's the most common because it comes pre-installed on many Android devices, but others like SwiftKey, Fleksy, and Chrooma offer additional benefits and completely different styles. Changing the keyboard is simple, reversible, and secure when you choose official apps.
What to consider before changing your keyboard?
Before you rush into installing a new keyboard, there are a number of factors that you should consider to choose the best option and ensure the security of your data:
- Always download from official stores like the Google Play Store. Avoid dubious sources to reduce the risk of malware.
- Read other users' ratings and reviewsOther people's experiences can give you clues about privacy issues, resource consumption, or lack of updates.
- Check the permissions requested by the keyboardSome keyboards may ask for unnecessary permissions (contacts, storage, etc.). It's recommended to grant only the essentials.
- Be wary of keyboards with intrusive ads or opaque in-app purchases. Sometimes free keyboards include ads that can be annoying or unsafe.
NOTE: For your safety, never enter sensitive data such as bank passwords or private information on keyboards from unknown sources.
How to change the keyboard in WhatsApp step by step
Changing the keyboard you use for WhatsApp on Android is easy.The change applies system-wide, so the selected keyboard will also appear in other messaging apps, email, browsers, etc. There are two main methods:
1. Change the keyboard from WhatsApp (when typing in a chat)
- Open WhatsApp and enter any chat.
- Click the text box to open the keyboard.
- At the bottom of the keyboard you will see an icon of keyboard, world or gear icon, depending on the keyboard you have installed.
- Press and hold that icon or tap it once. A menu will open to select from all installed keyboards.
- Choose the keyboard you want to use. The change will be immediate. You can now type in WhatsApp using your preferred keyboard.
If you have multiple keyboards installed, you can easily switch between them with this option. It also works in other apps that allow text input..
2. Change the keyboard from Android system settings
If you don't see the switch keyboard icon while typing, or if you want to set a single keyboard for your entire device, you can do so from the phone settingsThe usual procedure is:
- Accede to Settings on your Android mobile.
- Enter the section System (on some devices it may be listed as 'General Management' or directly as 'Language & Input').
- Press on Language and text input o Virtual keyboard.
- Choose Current keyboard o Choose default keyboard.
- Mark your preferred keyboard as default. All changes will be applied immediately.
In some customization layers, access may be via other paths, such as:
- Settings → General management → Language & input → On-screen keyboard
- Settings → Additional settings → Keyboard and input method
This method will change the keyboard in WhatsApp and other apps at the same time..
How to customize your WhatsApp keyboard: themes, colors, and backgrounds
Many popular keyboards allow a Advanced customization so you can tailor the look to your personal tasteThis includes modifying colors, backgrounds, borders, font types, animations, and more. To customize your keyboard:
- Open the keyboard in a WhatsApp conversation.
- Click on the gear icon (settings or configuration) that appears on the top or bottom bar of the keyboard.
- Access the section Themes o Personalization..
- Select from the pre-designed theme options or choose the option Customize now to upload an image as your keyboard background.
- Save your changes and enjoy your custom keyboard every time you open WhatsApp.
On some keyboards, customization options also include adding sounds when you press keys, changing the size of letters, rearranging certain symbols, or even animating the visual effects of keystrokes.
Change the keyboard language in WhatsApp
If you need to chat in multiple languages on WhatsApp or you just want autocorrect to work properly in another language, you can easily add or change keyboard languageThe process is almost identical on all modern keyboards:
- Open any app to write (WhatsApp, browser, etc.).
- Unfold the keyboard and enter the menu adjustments from the keyboard (usually appearing as a gear icon).
- Find the section Languages o Add language.
- Select the language you want to add.
- Now, to change languages while typing, press and hold the space bar or press the icon worldA menu will open with the available languages, allowing you to switch between them in real time.
Spell check, suggestions, and word prediction will adapt to the chosen language, which is especially useful if you frequently write in multiple languages.
How to change the WhatsApp keyboard on iPhone?
If you're an iPhone user and want to enjoy different keyboards in WhatsApp, iOS also allows you to install alternative keyboards. The process is similar to that of Android, although with nuances specific to the Apple ecosystem:
- Download the desired keyboard from the App Store.
- Go to Settings -> General -> Keyboard -> Keyboards.
- press Add new keyboard and select the one you have installed.
- For it to work properly, go to the added keyboard and activate it. Allow full access if you require it.
- Open WhatsApp, enter a chat and when the keyboard is displayed, press the world globe icon or hold the space bar to cycle through available keyboards.
On iOS you can customize the order of installed keyboardsThe first one on the list will be the default in WhatsApp and other apps. Apple doesn't allow you to change the keyboard size or grid, but it does make it easy to switch between different supported styles.
Which keyboards should you choose for WhatsApp on Android?
The Play Store offers a huge variety of keyboards for Android, each with its own strengths. Below we highlight the most recommended options for use as a keyboard in WhatsApp:
1. Gboard (Google Keyboard)
It is the most popular and comes pre-installed on most Android phones. Gboard stands out for its lightning-fast autocorrect, integration with Google search, smart shortcuts, gesture typing, and support for emojis and GIFs.It offers dozens of languages, allows you to customize your background and themes, and consumes very little resources.
It allows you to perform searches without leaving the app, translate text in real time, and even create custom stickers. It also offers security and constant updates directly from Google.
2. Microsoft SwiftKey
SwiftKey is the best alternative to Gboard, especially if you're looking for deep customization and smart prediction that learns with use. It lets you install over 100 themes, resize the keyboard, type with swipes, supports up to five languages at once, and includes a dictionary that can be synced with a Microsoft account.
- Advanced prediction and autocorrect system.
- Support for emojis, animated stickers, and built-in GIFs.
- No ads or hidden purchases.
3. Flexible
Known for its speed and customization capabilities, Fleksy includes advanced gestures, theme selection, and an extensive catalog of emojis and GIFs thanks to GIPHY integration. Supporting over 80 languages, it allows you to change the keyboard background to any photo and adjust the size for a more comfortable experience.
- Emoji and word suggestions as you type.
- Quick access to viral GIFs, stickers, and memes.
- Available for free with optional purchases to unlock full potential.
4. Chrome Keyboard
A colorful and highly customizable keyboard. Chrooma automatically adapts its color depending on the app you are using, which adds a unique visual touch to WhatsApp or any other app. It supports gesture typing, word prediction, emojis, GIFs, and quick access to features. Its minimalist design helps keep the screen clutter-free, and in-app purchases unlock premium features.
- Advanced customization of appearance, colors and backgrounds.
- Smart keyboard that adapts to the open application.
In addition to these, there are other alternatives such as open board (open source and ad-free), AnySoftKeyboard (fully customizable and privacy-focused), and dedicated keyboards for accessibility or fast typing. Always remember to check the rating and privacy policy before installing a new keyboard.
Security and privacy tips when changing your keyboard
One of the main risks when changing your keyboard comes from suspicious apps that, if not downloaded from official stores, could record what you type and compromise your security. To avoid problems:
- Always choose keyboards developed by reputable companies or those with active communities.
- Don't grant unnecessary permissions such as access to your contacts, gallery or private files.
- Avoid entering passwords and sensitive data if you don't fully trust the keyboard.
- Uninstall keyboards that display intrusive ads or strange behavior.
The keyboards recommended in this guide (Gboard, SwiftKey, Fleksy, Chrooma) are considered safe and have millions of downloads and positive reviews. Still, it's a good idea to check their privacy policy and keep these apps updated.
Advanced Tricks: Keyboard Shortcuts and Gestures for WhatsApp
One of the advantages of modern keyboards is the ability to create custom shortcuts for words or phrases you use frequently. For example, you can set "omw" to automatically replace it with "On my way!" or any other text you like.
To take advantage of shortcuts:
- Access the keyboard settings (gear icon when open).
- Find the section text shortcuts o Personal dictionary.
- Create a new shortcut by choosing a keyword and the text to replace it.
- Save the changes and check them by writing in WhatsApp.
Most keyboards also support Gestures to delete words, move between letters, or activate functions with a swipe of your finger. Check your keyboard settings for the available options and configure them to your liking to speed up your typing.
Frequently asked questions about changing the keyboard in WhatsApp
- Can I have a different keyboard just on WhatsApp?
No. The keyboard you select will be the default in all text input apps on your phone. However, you can change it in real time in any app by following the steps described above. - Does changing the keyboard affect my chats or conversations?
No. Your WhatsApp messages and conversations are not affected; only the way you write texts changes. - Can I go back to the previous keyboard at any time?
Yes. You can switch between installed keyboards using the keyboard/world/gear icon or from your device's Settings. - Does the keyboard store what I type?
Modern keyboards have systems to learn your most frequently used words, but keyboards from reputable developers keep your data private and don't access private information. Always read the privacy policy before installing a new one.
The ability to change the keyboard in WhatsApp and customize every aspect of your typing experience allows you to express yourself better, increase productivity, and enjoy messaging that's truly tailored to your needs. The variety of options on Google Play, along with the advanced customization and security features of the recommended keyboards, will make chatting on WhatsApp much more comfortable and fun. Don't forget to regularly review the permissions granted and keep these apps updated to ensure the best possible user experience.
