Looking to upgrade your gaming setup but not sure which keyboard to invest in? Look no further! In this article, you’ll discover the most popular gaming keyboards of the year, all carefully curated to enhance your gaming experience. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore gamer, this buyer’s guide will help you find the perfect keyboard that suits your needs and budget. So sit back, relax, and get ready to level up your gaming experience with these top-notch keyboards!
Mechanical Keyboards
Overview of Mechanical Keyboards
Mechanical keyboards are a popular choice among gamers due to their exceptional performance and durability. Unlike membrane keyboards, which have rubber domes beneath the keys, mechanical keyboards use individual mechanical switches for each key. This not only provides a satisfying tactile feedback but also ensures a more accurate and responsive keystroke. Moreover, mechanical keyboards have a longer lifespan, making them a worthwhile investment for avid gamers.
Benefits of Using Mechanical Keyboards for Gaming
When it comes to gaming, the benefits of using a mechanical keyboard are numerous. Firstly, the tactile feedback of the mechanical switches allows gamers to have better control over their keystrokes, resulting in improved accuracy and responsiveness. Additionally, mechanical keyboards often have a lower actuation force, making them ideal for gamers who need to perform rapid keystrokes. Furthermore, mechanical keyboards are more durable compared to their membrane counterparts, making them more resistant to wear and tear caused by intense gaming sessions.
Top Picks for Mechanical Keyboards
- Corsair K95 RGB Platinum: Known for its sleek design and outstanding performance, the Corsair K95 RGB Platinum offers customizable RGB lighting, dedicated macro keys, and Cherry MX mechanical switches.
- Logitech G Pro X: With hot-swappable switches and customizable per-key lighting, the Logitech G Pro X is a versatile gaming keyboard favored by eSports professionals.
- Razer Huntsman Elite: Featuring Razer’s Opto-Mechanical switches, the Razer Huntsman Elite offers astonishingly fast response times and impressive RGB lighting effects.
Wireless Keyboards
Overview of Wireless Keyboards
Wireless keyboards have gained significant popularity among gamers due to their convenience and clutter-free setup. These keyboards utilize wireless technologies, such as Bluetooth or proprietary wireless receivers, to establish a connection with the gaming device. Wireless keyboards allow gamers to enjoy the freedom of movement without the hassle of tangled cables, providing a more enjoyable and immersive gaming experience.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Wireless Keyboards for Gaming
The main advantage of wireless keyboards for gaming is the freedom they offer. Without limiting cables, gamers can sit wherever they please and adopt their preferred gaming posture. Wireless keyboards also eliminate cable drag, preventing any interference with mouse movement. However, wireless keyboards may have a slight delay compared to their wired counterparts, although this delay is often negligible for casual gamers. Additionally, wireless keyboards require batteries or regular recharging, which can be a minor inconvenience.
Top Picks for Wireless Keyboards
- Logitech G915 Lightspeed: Boasting a low-profile design and Logitech’s Lightspeed wireless technology, the Logitech G915 Lightspeed provides exceptional wireless performance and customizable RGB lighting.
- Corsair K63 Wireless: Designed specifically for gaming, the Corsair K63 Wireless offers a compact form factor, Cherry MX mechanical switches, and a reliable wireless connection.
- Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro: Featuring Razer’s HyperSpeed wireless technology, the Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro offers excellent wireless performance, customizable RGB lighting, and durable mechanical switches.
RGB Keyboards
Overview of RGB Keyboards
RGB keyboards have taken the gaming community by storm, providing a visually stunning and customizable experience. These keyboards feature individually backlit keys, allowing users to customize the color, brightness, and effects of every key. RGB keyboards not only enhance the aesthetics of a gaming setup but also provide practical advantages, such as improved visibility in low-light environments and the ability to create unique lighting profiles.
Why RGB Keyboards are Popular for Gaming
RGB keyboards have become popular for gaming due to their ability to create an immersive gaming atmosphere. The customizable lighting effects allow gamers to match their keyboard lighting with in-game events, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Moreover, RGB keyboards often come with software that enables users to sync the lighting effects with other RGB-enabled peripherals, creating a cohesive and visually appealing setup.
Top Picks for RGB Keyboards
- SteelSeries Apex Pro: Equipped with per-key customizable RGB lighting and adjustable mechanical switches, the SteelSeries Apex Pro offers unparalleled customization options and high-performance gaming features.
- HyperX Alloy Elite RGB: Featuring dynamic RGB lighting effects and reliable Cherry MX mechanical switches, the HyperX Alloy Elite RGB offers both style and substance for gamers.
- Cooler Master CK550: With extensive lighting customization and durable Gateron mechanical switches, the Cooler Master CK550 provides an affordable option for gamers in search of RGB keyboards.
Compact Keyboards
Overview of Compact Keyboards
Compact keyboards, also known as tenkeyless (TKL) keyboards, are smaller versions of standard keyboards that omit the numeric keypad. These keyboards are designed to save space on the desk, giving gamers more room for mouse movements. Compact keyboards are not only practical for gamers with limited desk space but also preferred by those who prefer a more compact and minimalist gaming setup.
Advantages of Compact Keyboards for Gaming
The main advantage of compact keyboards for gaming is their reduced size, offering significant space savings on the desk. This allows gamers to have more room for mouse movements, which can be especially beneficial for games that require precise and quick cursor positioning. Additionally, compact keyboards are more portable and easier to carry, making them suitable for gamers who frequently attend LAN parties or tournaments.
Top Picks for Compact Keyboards
- Ducky One 2 Mini: Renowned for its minimalistic design and high build quality, the Ducky One 2 Mini offers a compact form factor and a wide range of switch options for a customized typing experience.
- Anne Pro 2: Featuring a compact layout and Bluetooth connectivity, the Anne Pro 2 is a versatile gaming keyboard with customizable RGB lighting and hot-swappable switches.
- Keychron K6: With a compact 65% layout and wireless connectivity, the Keychron K6 offers a balance between compactness and functionality, making it suitable for both gaming and productivity.
Tenkeyless Keyboards
Overview of Tenkeyless Keyboards
Tenkeyless keyboards, often referred to as TKL keyboards, are similar to compact keyboards as they also eliminate the numeric keypad. However, TKL keyboards retain the navigation and function keys, providing a more familiar layout for users. These keyboards strike a balance between space-saving and maintaining essential functionality, making them a popular choice for gamers who still require quick access to dedicated function keys.
Benefits of Tenkeyless Keyboards for Gaming
The primary benefit of tenkeyless keyboards for gaming lies in their reduced size compared to full-sized keyboards. By removing the numeric keypad, gamers gain more space for their mouse movements, resulting in improved precision and comfort during gameplay. Additionally, tenkeyless keyboards are often more portable compared to their full-sized counterparts, allowing gamers to easily transport them for LAN parties or gaming sessions at a friend’s house.
Top Picks for Tenkeyless Keyboards
- Ducky One 2 TKL: Known for its build quality and extensive switch options, the Ducky One 2 TKL offers a solid typing experience and customizable RGB lighting.
- HyperX Alloy Origins Core: With HyperX’s red linear mechanical switches and customizable RGB lighting, the HyperX Alloy Origins Core provides a compact and high-performance option for gamers.
- Glorious GMMK Compact: Featuring a hot-swappable switch design and customizable RGB lighting, the Glorious GMMK Compact allows gamers to easily customize their typing experience without soldering.
Customizable Keyboards
Overview of Customizable Keyboards
Customizable keyboards provide users with the flexibility to modify various aspects of their keyboard to suit their preferences. These keyboards often allow users to hot-swap switches, change keycaps, and adjust lighting effects. Customizable keyboards have gained popularity among gamers who enjoy personalizing their gaming setups and fine-tuning their keyboards to achieve the perfect typing and gaming experience.
Why Customizable Keyboards are Popular for Gaming
Customizable keyboards have become popular for gaming due to the freedom they provide to users. Gamers can tailor their keyboard’s aesthetics, switches, and keycaps to align with their personal preferences and gaming style. Additionally, customizable keyboards often offer extensive software support, allowing users to create and save multiple profiles for different games, ensuring optimal key layouts and lighting effects for each gaming experience.
Top Picks for Customizable Keyboards
- Drop ALT: Featuring a hot-swappable switch design, customizable RGB lighting, and programmable macros, the Drop ALT provides a versatile and personalized gaming experience.
- Keychron K8: With its hot-swappable switches and wireless connectivity, the Keychron K8 offers customizability and convenience for gamers who prioritize versatility and portability.
- GMMK Pro: Boasting a modular design that allows for hot-swappable switches and customizable RGB lighting, the GMMK Pro offers extensive customization options and a premium build quality.
Budget-Friendly Keyboards
Overview of Budget-Friendly Keyboards
Budget-friendly keyboards offer an affordable yet capable option for gamers looking to enhance their gaming experience without breaking the bank. These keyboards may have fewer features compared to their high-end counterparts, but they still provide a satisfactory gaming experience with reliable performance and basic customization options.
Affordable Gaming Keyboards for Every Budget
- Redragon K552: Known for its durability and value for money, the Redragon K552 offers a compact design, customizable red backlighting, and mechanical switches at an affordable price point.
- Anne Pro 2: With its compact layout, customizable RGB lighting, and Bluetooth connectivity, the Anne Pro 2 strikes a balance between affordability and versatility.
- SteelSeries Apex 3: Offering spill-resistant design and customizable RGB lighting at an entry-level price, the SteelSeries Apex 3 provides a budget-friendly option for gamers seeking basic gaming features.
Ergonomic Keyboards
Overview of Ergonomic Keyboards
Ergonomic keyboards are designed with the user’s comfort and long-term health in mind. These keyboards feature a curved or split design, allowing for a more natural hand and wrist position while typing or gaming. The ergonomic layout not only reduces the strain on the wrists but also helps prevent conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, making them an excellent choice for gamers who spend long hours in front of the computer.
Benefits of Using Ergonomic Keyboards for Gaming
The primary benefit of using ergonomic keyboards for gaming is the improved comfort and reduced risk of repetitive strain injuries. The curved or split design promotes a more natural hand posture, reducing strain on the wrists, forearms, and shoulders. By minimizing discomfort and fatigue, ergonomic keyboards enable gamers to maintain optimal performance and focus during extended gaming sessions.
Top Picks for Ergonomic Keyboards
- Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB: Featuring a fully split design and customizable RGB lighting, the Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB offers ultimate ergonomic comfort and versatility for gamers.
- Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard: With its curved design and cushioned palm rest, the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard provides a comfortable typing experience and excellent wrist support.
- Logitech Ergo K860: Designed to promote a more natural typing position, the Logitech Ergo K860 features a curved design, adjustable palm rest, and whisper-quiet keys, ensuring a comfortable and quiet gaming experience.
Gaming Keyboard Accessories
Overview of Gaming Keyboard Accessories
Gaming keyboard accessories enhance the overall gaming experience by providing additional functionalities and customization options. These accessories can range from wrist rests and keycap sets to external keypads and USB hubs. By investing in suitable gaming keyboard accessories, gamers can further personalize and optimize their gaming setup to suit their specific needs and preferences.
Must-Have Accessories for Enhancing the Gaming Experience
- Wrist Rest: A wrist rest provides essential support and cushioning for the wrists, reducing strain and discomfort during prolonged gaming sessions.
- Keycap Set: Upgrading keycaps can improve the overall typing and gaming experience by providing better tactile feedback and aesthetic customization options.
- External Keypad: For gamers who require additional programmable keys, an external keypad can be a valuable accessory, offering quick access to macros and key combinations.
- USB Hub: A USB hub expands the number of available USB ports, allowing for seamless connectivity of gaming peripherals and reducing cable clutter on the desk.
Top Picks for Gaming Keyboard Accessories
- Glorious Gaming Wrist Rest: Designed for optimal comfort and support, the Glorious Gaming Wrist Rest provides a soft and ergonomic resting surface for wrists during intense gaming sessions.
- HyperX Pudding Keycaps: With their translucent design and double-shot molding, the HyperX Pudding Keycaps offer enhanced RGB backlighting and a stylish aesthetic.
- Razer Tartarus Pro Gaming Keypad: Featuring adjustable analog keys and customizable macros, the Razer Tartarus Pro Gaming Keypad provides precise control and additional programmable options.
- Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub: With its compact and durable design, the Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub offers reliable and convenient connectivity for multiple gaming peripherals.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Gaming Keyboard
When choosing a gaming keyboard, several factors should be taken into consideration to ensure the best fit for individual preferences and gaming needs.
Keyboard Size and Layout
Consider the available desk space and personal preferences for keyboard size and layout. Full-sized keyboards offer a complete set of keys, including a numeric keypad, while compact keyboards omit the numeric keypad for more space-saving. Tenkeyless keyboards strike a balance between compactness and functionality.
Switches and Keycaps
The choice of switches significantly impacts the typing experience. Mechanical switches provide tactile feedback and audio clicks, while some prefer quieter switches. Keycaps should also be considered for their material, texture, and durability.
Connectivity Options
Decide whether a wired or wireless keyboard suits the gaming setup. Wired keyboards provide a reliable and low-latency connection, whereas wireless keyboards offer more freedom of movement.
Backlighting and Customization
RGB backlighting allows for personalized lighting effects. Consider the level of customization and software support provided by the keyboard for creating lighting profiles and syncing with other RGB-enabled peripherals.
Gaming-Specific Features
Some gaming keyboards offer additional features such as dedicated macro keys, onboard memory for storing profiles, and gaming mode to disable certain keys during gameplay. Consider these features based on gaming preferences.
Durability and Build Quality
Ensure the keyboard is built to withstand the demands of intense gaming sessions. Look for keyboards with durable materials, sturdy construction, and spill-resistant design.
Price and Value for Money
Consider the budget and value for money when choosing a gaming keyboard. Determine the desired features and prioritize them according to personal preferences and budget constraints.
By considering these factors, gamers can find a gaming keyboard that best suits their gaming style, comfort, and budget.