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Choosing the right gaming keyboard is less about finding the *best* gaming mouse or headset, and more about aligning with your personal preferences. Factors like layout (tenkeyless or full-sized), mechanical switches, and extra features all boil down to individual taste. Even with personal preferences in mind, several key performance aspects deserve consideration before investing in a potentially expensive purchase. This guide highlights crucial features and reviews my favorite keyboards to date.
Years of experience with numerous keyboards, including many recent releases, inform my recommendations. Each keyboard reviewed here is personally vetted, with in-depth analysis of switch performance in competitive gaming and all-day typing comfort. Construction significantly impacts feel, and I'll delve into those nuances. While extra features like Razer's Command Dial or SteelSeries' OLED panel are attractive additions, remember they often rely on software, a factor to consider when prioritizing customization. Even keycaps contribute to overall performance. This guide meticulously explores the subtleties of gaming keyboards, enabling an informed purchasing decision.
TL;DR: Top Gaming Keyboards:
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Best Overall: SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro
Redragon K582 Surara
Cherry MX LP 2.1
Logitech G Pro X TKL
Keychron K4
Corsair K100 RGB
Logitech G515 TKL
Pulsar Xboard QS
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%The diverse keyboard landscape necessitates categorization for clearer recommendations. This approach showcases products from various manufacturers, preventing overemphasis on a single favorite (though the SteelSeries Apex Pro remains a top contender). Each keyboard excels in specific areas and caters to unique needs and preferences. For instance, the Cherry MX LP 2.1 shines as a compact 60% keyboard due to its low profile and lightweight design. The Logitech G515 TKL is ideal for those seeking a low-profile option without sacrificing features. The Redragon K582 Surara offers impressive quality at a budget-friendly price point. My detailed reviews and this guide highlight these nuances.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (Gen 3) - Photos
1. SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)
Best Overall Gaming Keyboard
Best Overall: SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)
The SteelSeries Apex Pro, with its Hall Effect switches, OLED control panel, and robust construction, is an ideal gaming keyboard from nearly every perspective.
Product Specifications:
Connectivity: 2.4GHz (USB-C dongle), Bluetooth, or wired
Switch Type: OmniPoint 3.0 Hall Effect (linear)
Battery Life: Up to 45 hours
Size / Layout: Full (wired-only) or TKL
PROS: Hall Effect switches are customizable and feel excellent; OLED control panel functions well; sleek, understated design with tasteful RGB.
CONS: N/A
SteelSeries consistently impresses with its Apex line. The 2024 refresh offers full-sized and tenkeyless models (including a wireless version). The OmniPoint 3.0 switches and OLED control panel perfectly encapsulate my ideal gaming keyboard. Its sleek design, bold keycap font, and tasteful RGB lighting are complemented by exceptionally smooth and consistent Hall Effect switches, allowing for custom actuation point adjustment (0.1mm to 4.0mm). Features like Rapid Tap, Rapid Trigger, and Protection Mode enhance performance, although their utility varies by game (note potential Rapid Tap bans). The OLED panel excels at controlling media, RGB, actuation points, macros, and display information, while also enabling custom profile switching. While the 45-hour battery life is manageable, it's not a significant drawback for me.
The Gen 3 SteelSeries Apex Pro is, for all intents and purposes, my ideal keyboard; it will take a truly exceptional keyboard to replace it.
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro – Photos
2. Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro
Best High-End Gaming Keyboard
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro
Razer's flagship keyboard is even better with the V4 Pro, boasting excellent mechanical switches, macro keys, and a customizable Command Dial.
Product Specifications:
Connectivity: USB wired (8000Hz polling rate)
Switch Type: Razer Orange (tactile), Yellow (linear), Green (clicky)
Battery Life: N/A
Size / Layout: Full (with macro keys)
PROS: Razer's proprietary mechanical switches are fantastic; macro keys and extra buttons provide comprehensive control; Synapse software unlocks advanced features.
CONS: Slightly bulky size.
Razer offers a diverse keyboard lineup, but the flagship BlackWidow V4 Pro stands out. Its build quality, mechanical switches, and additional features make it easy to recommend. While lacking the OLED screen and Command Dial of its tenkeyless counterpart, the full-sized V4 Pro features a programmable dial and a column of macro keys, along with media controls. Synapse software allows for extensive customization. Razer's tactile Orange, clicky Green, and linear Yellow switches are top performers with shorter actuation points. The 8000Hz polling rate, while perhaps overkill for keyboards, demonstrates Razer's commitment to comprehensive performance.
Years of iteration have propelled the BlackWidow V4 Pro above the competition, a testament to its design and execution.
3. Redragon K582 Surara
Best Budget Gaming Keyboard
Redragon K582 Surara
Budget keyboards have significantly improved, and the Redragon K582 Surara exemplifies this with excellent performance and build quality at a fraction of the cost.
Product Specifications:
Connectivity: USB wired
Switch Type: Professional Red (linear)
Battery Life: N/A
Size / Layout: Full
PROS: Performs as well as standard mechanical keyboards; well-built and durable.
CONS: Somewhat gaudy design.
Redragon's extensive product line can be overwhelming. While initially hesitant due to its budget-friendly nature and use of off-brand switches, the K582 Surara surprised me. The "Professional" Red switches perform like Cherry MX Reds, offering smooth, linear actuation and consistent performance. The full-sized model is highlighted here, but Redragon's TKL and mini models are also worth considering. Its typical sale price of around $36 is remarkably affordable for a mechanical keyboard.
The Redragon K582 Surara offers a compelling value proposition.
4. Cherry MX LP 2.1
Best Compact (60%) Gaming Keyboard
Cherry MX LP 2.1
The Cherry MX LP 2.1 stands out among compact 60% keyboards with its lightweight, low-profile design and excellent performance.
Product Specifications:
Connectivity: 2.4GHz (USB dongle), Bluetooth, wired
Switch Type: Cherry MX Low-Profile Silver (linear, short)
Battery Life: Up to 60 hours
Size / Layout: Compact 60%
PROS: Super lightweight; low-profile keycaps; MX Speed Silver switches feel excellent.
CONS: Cherry software isn't great; compact 60% keyboards may not suit everyone.
Compact 60% keyboards, while sacrificing the number pad, center column, and function row, offer a smaller footprint. The Cherry MX LP 2.1, my former daily driver, is exceptionally lightweight and portable. The slim keycaps enhance the low-profile design, and the Cherry MX Speed switches provide a short (1.5mm) actuation point with a smooth linear feel. Bluetooth capabilities add versatility. Despite its unconventional size, it performed admirably during extensive use.
The MX LP 2.1 remains a highly recommended option.
5. Logitech G Pro X TKL
Best Tenkeyless (75%) Gaming Keyboard
Logitech G Pro X TKL
Logitech's G Pro X TKL offers excellent mechanical switches and build quality in a tenkeyless form factor.
Product Specifications:
Connectivity: 2.4GHz (USB dongle), Bluetooth, wired
Switch Type: Logitech Tactile, Clicky, or Linear (proprietary switches)
Battery Life: Up to 50 hours
Size / Layout: TKL (75%)
PROS: Extra on-board features; excellent Logitech switches; sleek and clean design.
CONS: N/A
Building upon the G413's success, the G Pro X TKL features a refined design, updated switches, and Lightspeed wireless technology. The brushed aluminum top, exposed keycap design, and tasteful RGB lighting stand out. Unlike many TKLs, it retains on-board controls (volume wheel, media controls, mode toggles). The keycaps have a smooth finish, and the linear switches provide consistent keystrokes. While lacking OLED screens or high polling rates, the G Pro X TKL executes its design flawlessly.
The G Pro X TKL is a top-tier tenkeyless keyboard.
6. Keychron K4
Best 96% Layout Gaming Keyboard
Keychron K4
The Keychron K4 efficiently combines full-sized keyboard features into a 96% format, saving space without sacrificing functionality.
Product Specifications:
Connectivity: 2.4GHz (USB dongle), Bluetooth, wired
Switch Type: Gateron Red (linear)
Battery Life: Up to 40 hours
Size / Layout: Full (96%)
PROS: Affordable, especially wireless; Gateron switches perform well; slim profile.
CONS: Limited extra features and software customization.
The 96% layout, while less common, offers a compelling balance between full functionality and a smaller footprint. The Gateron Red linear switches perform comparably to Cherry MX Reds. Its minimalist design and Bluetooth connectivity add versatility. While requiring mode switching for center column functions, the Keychron K4 is highly recommended for those seeking a full-sized keyboard with space-saving design.
The Keychron K4 is an excellent choice for users who value both functionality and space efficiency.
Corsair K100 RGB Review - Photos
7. Corsair K100 RGB
Best Full-Sized Gaming Keyboard
Corsair K100 RGB
The Corsair K100 RGB surpasses expectations with macro keys, media controls, optical switches, and a brushed aluminum plate.
Product Specifications:
Connectivity: USB wired (8000Hz polling rate)
Switch Type: Cherry MX Speed or Corsair OPX Optical
Battery Life: N/A
Size / Layout: Full (with macro keys)
PROS: Robust on-board controls; solid build with optical switches; unique keycap and button texture.
CONS: Mediocre software.
The Corsair K100 RGB stands out with its brushed aluminum plate, RGB lighting, macro keys, media controls, and programmable buttons. The balance between flashy aesthetics and functionality is well-executed. The OPX Optical switches offer a unique feel, while the Cherry MX Speed switches are also excellent. The 8000Hz polling rate, while not crucial, adds to its high-performance profile. Despite slightly cumbersome software, the K100 RGB is a top-tier full-sized keyboard.
The Corsair K100 RGB is a premium full-sized keyboard with exceptional features.
Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL - Photos
8. Logitech G515 TKL
Best Low-Profile Gaming Keyboard
Logitech G515 TKL
The G515 TKL combines a slim profile with excellent mechanical switches, making it a top low-profile keyboard.
Product Specifications:
Connectivity: 2.4GHz (USB dongle), Bluetooth, wired
Switch Type: Logitech Tactile
Battery Life: Up to 50 hours
Size / Layout: TKL (75%)
PROS: Slim frame with thin keycaps; dense, solid build; mechanical switches provide excellent performance.
CONS: Top bar controls could be improved.
The Logitech G515 TKL offers a slim profile without sacrificing durability. The ultra-thin keycaps contribute to its sleek appearance and small footprint. Logitech's updated mechanical switches have a short (1.3mm) actuation point. While lacking the "thock" of some keyboards, it performs exceptionally well. The top bar's limited controls are the only noticeable drawback.
The Logitech G515 TKL is a top choice for low-profile gaming keyboards.
Pulsar Xboard QS - Photos
9. Pulsar Xboard QS
Best Wired Gaming Keyboard
Pulsar Xboard QS
Pulsar's debut keyboard, the Xboard QS, impresses with its build quality, aesthetics, and exceptional mechanical switches.
Product Specifications:
Connectivity: USB wired (simultaneous dual-device capable)
Switch Type: Kailh Box Ice Mint 2 (linear)
Battery Life: N/A
Size / Layout: TKL (75%)
PROS: Excellent Kailh Box Ice Mint 2 switches; dual connectivity; robust build and stylish design.
CONS: Relatively expensive for a wired keyboard.
From Pulsar, a brand known for custom keyboard parts, the Xboard QS is an enthusiast-level keyboard. The Kailh Box Ice Mint 2 linear switches, with their light actuation force (38g), are exceptional. The layered construction results in firm, responsive keystrokes. The design is both stylish and durable. While lacking first-party software, physical customization is straightforward. Despite its price, the Xboard QS is a top-tier wired keyboard.
The Pulsar Xboard QS is a premium wired keyboard for discerning users.
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% - Photos
10. Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%
Best Customizable Gaming Keyboard
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%
The BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% excels in Razer's keyboard lineup with its Command Dial, swappable parts, and high-quality construction.
Product Specifications:
Connectivity: 2.4GHz (USB dongle), HyperPolling (for 4000Hz polling), wired
Switch Type: Razer Orange (tactile), swappable
Battery Life: Up to 60 hours
Size / Layout: TKL (75%)
PROS: Excellent build quality and easy customization; useful Command Dial; advanced Synapse software features.
CONS: Expensive.
The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% prioritizes customization, allowing for easy switch replacement. Its high-quality construction, Command Dial, and layered internal design contribute to a satisfying typing and gaming experience. Synapse software enhances its functionality. The ability to swap switches makes it highly adaptable to individual preferences.
The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is a top choice for customizable keyboards.
Gaming Keyboard FAQ
What are the advantages between different mechanical switches?
Choosing the right mechanical (or optical/Hall Effect) switch is crucial. While Cherry switches once dominated, manufacturers now offer proprietary options. Gateron and Kailh Box also provide competitive switches. Optical and Hall Effect switches utilize light and magnets, respectively, offering distinct advantages. Three main switch types exist: linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches offer smooth keystrokes; tactile switches provide feedback at the actuation point; and clicky switches are louder with pronounced feedback. Optical and Hall Effect switches are usually linear, with adjustable actuation points.
Actuation point, travel distance, and actuation force are also important. Actuation point is the keystroke distance at which input is registered (shorter actuation points are faster but risk accidental inputs). Travel distance is the full keystroke depth. Actuation force is the pressure required to actuate a key (measured in grams or centinewtons).
Should I go with a TKL, compact, or full-sized keyboard?
Keyboard size is a matter of personal preference. Full-sized keyboards offer all 104 keys but occupy the most desk space. 96% keyboards retain all keys in a more compact layout. Tenkeyless (TKL) keyboards remove the number pad, freeing up desk space while often adding features like Command Dials or OLED panels. Compact 60% keyboards are the smallest, removing the number pad and center column, but sacrificing functionality for a smaller footprint.
Should I go wired or wireless for a gaming keyboard?
Wireless is more important for mice and headsets due to their movement. For keyboards, it's a convenience feature. Wired keyboards are often cheaper. Modern wireless technology minimizes latency, with features like Logitech's Lightspeed and Razer's HyperSpeed offering high performance. Higher polling rates are also increasingly common in wireless keyboards.
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