Choosing the right gaming keyboard is more about personal preferences than selecting the best gaming mouse or headset. Key aspects like the keyboard's layout—whether it's tenkeyless, full-sized, or something in between—mechanical switches, and additional features all boil down to what feels best for you. Given the investment involved, understanding these elements is crucial. In this guide, I'll share insights from my extensive experience with various keyboards to help you make an informed choice.
Having tested numerous keyboards over the years, including the latest releases, my recommendations stem from hands-on experience. I'll delve into how each keyboard's switches perform in competitive gaming and how they feel during extended typing sessions. Features like Razer’s Command Dial or the SteelSeries OLED control panel can enhance your experience, but remember that these often require software for full customization. Even something as simple as keycaps can influence a keyboard's performance. My reviews and this guide are designed to help you navigate the nuances of gaming keyboards effectively.
TL;DR: These Are the Best Gaming Keyboards:
Best Overall### SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)
17See it at Amazon
### Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro
6See it at Amazon
### Redragon K582 Surara
3See it at Amazon
### Cherry MX LP 2.1
3See it at Amazon
### Logitech G Pro X TKL
4See it at Amazon
### Keychron K4
1See it at Amazon
### Corsair K100 RGB
2See it at Amazon
### Logitech G515 TKL
1See it at Amazon
### Pulsar Xboard QS
1See it at Amazon
### Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%
2See it at AmazonWith the variety of keyboards available, I've categorized my recommendations to highlight different strengths and suit various preferences. This approach allows me to showcase multiple products from different manufacturers rather than focusing solely on my top pick, the SteelSeries Apex Pro. Each keyboard excels in certain areas, and some may better match your specific needs.
For example, the Cherry MX LP 2.1 is my top choice for a compact 60% keyboard due to its low-profile keys and lightweight design. If you prefer a low-profile tenkeyless keyboard, the Logitech G515 TKL is an excellent option with its slim frame and useful on-board features. For those on a budget, the Redragon K582 Surara offers impressive quality at a low cost. Let's dive into my top picks for the best gaming keyboards.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (Gen 3) - Photos
11 Images
1. SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)
Best Overall Gaming Keyboard
Best Overall### SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)
17From nearly every angle, the SteelSeries Apex Pro stands out as the ideal gaming keyboard, featuring Hall Effect switches, an OLED control panel, and solid construction. Its sleek design, complemented by bold keycap fonts and tasteful RGB lighting, makes it a standout choice. The Hall Effect switches allow for customizable actuation points from 0.1mm to 4.0mm, offering versatility for both gaming and typing. Features like Rapid Tap, Rapid Trigger, and Protection Mode can enhance performance, though their utility varies by game. The OLED panel adds convenience for controlling media, lighting, actuation points, macros, and custom profiles. With up to 45 hours of battery life, the Apex Pro is a top contender in the gaming keyboard market.
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro – Photos
25 Images
2. Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro
Best High-End Gaming Keyboard
### Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro
6Razer's flagship keyboard, the BlackWidow V4 Pro, has been enhanced with excellent mechanical switches, macro keys, and a customizable Command Dial. Its full layout includes media controls and a programmable dial, all customizable through the Synapse software. Razer's proprietary switches, including tactile Oranges, clicky Greens, and linear Yellows, are among the best available, offering quick and consistent keystrokes. With an 8000Hz polling rate, the BlackWidow V4 Pro is a top performer in its class.
Redragon K582 Surara
Best Budget Gaming Keyboard
### Redragon K582 Surara
3Budget-friendly keyboards have evolved significantly, and the Redragon K582 Surara is a testament to this with its impressive performance and build quality at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. Though its design might be flashy, the "professional" Red switches deliver smooth, buttery linear actuation comparable to Cherry MX Reds. This full-sized keyboard offers great value, often available for as low as $36, making it an excellent choice for those looking to save without sacrificing quality.
Cherry MX LP 2.1
Best Compact (60%) Gaming Keyboard
### Cherry MX LP 2.1
3For those who prefer a compact 60% keyboard, the Cherry MX LP 2.1 stands out with its lightweight design and low-profile keycaps. It performs well with Cherry MX Speed Silver switches, offering a smooth and responsive typing experience. Bluetooth connectivity adds versatility, making it suitable for various settings. Despite its compact size, it held up well through extensive use, making it a reliable choice for gamers looking to save desk space.
Logitech G Pro X TKL
Best Tenkeyless (75%) Gaming Keyboard
### Logitech G Pro X TKL
4Logitech's G Pro X TKL combines the best aspects of a tenkeyless keyboard with excellent mechanical switches and a sleek design. Its brushed aluminum top and exposed keycap design enhance the RGB lighting effect. On-board features like a volume wheel and media controls are conveniently placed, and the proprietary linear switches deliver satisfying and consistent keystrokes. The G Pro X TKL is a top performer that offers everything you need in a tenkeyless keyboard.
Keychron K4
Best 96% Layout Gaming Keyboard
### Keychron K4
1The Keychron K4 offers a 96% layout that retains all necessary keys in a more compact design, making it ideal for those who want full functionality without sacrificing desk space. The Gateron Red switches perform admirably, matching the quality of Cherry MX Reds. Its slim frame and Bluetooth connectivity add versatility, though it lacks some extra features and software customization. If you need a full-sized keyboard with a smaller footprint, the Keychron K4 is a strong contender.
Corsair K100 RGB Review
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7. Corsair K100 RGB
Best Full-Sized Gaming Keyboard
### Corsair K100 RGB
2Corsair's K100 RGB elevates the full-sized keyboard experience with its brushed aluminum plate, macro keys, and media controls. The keyboard's RGB lighting is enhanced by the exposed keycaps, and the side RGB strips add to its extravagant yet functional design. With options for Cherry MX Speed or Corsair OPX Optical switches, the K100 delivers firm and consistent keystrokes. Despite some software drawbacks, the K100's robust build and 8000Hz polling rate make it a premium choice.
Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL - Photos
10 Images
8. Logitech G515 TKL
Best Low-Profile Gaming Keyboard
### Logitech G515 TKL
1The Logitech G515 TKL is a standout low-profile keyboard with its slim frame and thin keycaps. Its tactile mechanical switches have a short 1.3mm actuation point, enhancing its performance in gaming and typing. While the top bar could offer more features, the G515 TKL's overall design and performance make it a top choice for those seeking a low-profile gaming keyboard.
Pulsar Xboard QS - Photos
15 Images
9. Pulsar Xboard QS
Best Wired Gaming Keyboard
### Pulsar Xboard QS
1Pulsar's Xboard QS impresses with its strong build quality, unique aesthetic, and exceptional Kailh Box Ice Mint 2 switches. Its dual connectivity feature is novel, and the keyboard's solid construction and retro-futuristic design are appealing. Though priced at $300, the Xboard QS is a top choice for those willing to invest in a high-quality wired keyboard.
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% - Photos
13 Images
10. Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%
Best Customizable Gaming Keyboard
### Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%
2The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is designed for customization, offering swappable parts and the updated Command Dial. Its solid build quality and the latest Synapse software enhance its appeal. Though priced at $300, the ability to customize with any 3- or 5-pin switch and the inclusion of high-performance features make it a standout choice for those who want a highly customizable keyboard.
Gaming Keyboard FAQ
What are the advantages between different mechanical switches?
Choosing the right mechanical switch is crucial for a gaming keyboard. The market has evolved from Cherry's dominance to include proprietary switches from brands like Logitech and Razer, as well as offerings from Gateron and Kailh. Optical and Hall Effect switches use light and magnets, respectively, offering adjustable actuation points.
Switches come in three main types: linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches provide a smooth keystroke without feedback, ideal for gaming. Tactile switches offer a bump at the actuation point, providing feedback for precise inputs. Clicky switches are louder with full feedback, suitable for typing.
Key switch characteristics include actuation point, travel distance, and actuation force. The actuation point is where the keystroke registers, typically at 2.0mm for standard switches, with shorter points for competitive play. Travel distance is the full key press, often proportional to the actuation point. Actuation force measures the effort needed to press the key, typically around 45g, with variations for different preferences.
Should I go with a TKL, compact, or full-sized keyboard?
The choice between TKL, compact, and full-sized keyboards depends on your preferences. Full-sized keyboards offer all keys and additional features but take up more space. The 96% layout retains all keys in a more compact design. TKL layouts omit the number pad, freeing up desk space, while compact 60% keyboards are the smallest but sacrifice function keys and the center column.
Should I go wired or wireless for a gaming keyboard?
Wireless connectivity is more critical for mice and headsets, but it's increasingly common in keyboards. Wired versions are often cheaper and can offer the same essential features. Modern wireless technology minimizes input latency, making it a viable option for gaming keyboards. Brands like Logitech and Razer have advanced wireless tech that performs exceptionally well.
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