Best Gaming Keyboards

of Nov 2024

Gaming has become a popular pastime among people of all ages. With the rise of e-sports and professional gaming, the demand for high-quality gaming peripherals has also increased. One of the most important components of a gaming setup is the gaming keyboard. A good gaming keyboard can improve your gameplay and give you an advantage over your opponents. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be difficult to choose the right one. In this article, we will provide valuable tips for choosing the best gaming keyboard for your needs.

Types of Gaming Keyboards

Before we dive into the tips for choosing a gaming keyboard, it's important to understand the different types of gaming keyboards. Here are the three main types of gaming keyboards:

Mechanical Keyboards

Mechanical keyboards are the most popular type of gaming keyboards. They have individual mechanical switches under each keycap, which provide tactile feedback and a satisfying clicking sound. Mechanical keyboards are durable and long-lasting, making them a good investment for serious gamers.

Membrane Keyboards

Membrane keyboards are cheaper and quieter than mechanical keyboards. They use a rubber dome to register key presses, which can feel less responsive than mechanical switches. Membrane keyboards are a good option for casual gamers who don't need the precision and durability of a mechanical keyboard.

Hybrid Keyboards

Hybrid keyboards use a combination of mechanical and membrane switches. The keys that are used more frequently, such as the WASD keys, use mechanical switches while the rest use membrane switches. Hybrid keyboards offer a compromise between the precision of mechanical keyboards and the affordability of membrane keyboards.

Tips for Choosing a Gaming Keyboard

1. Switch Type

The switch type is the most important factor to consider when choosing a gaming keyboard. As we mentioned earlier, mechanical switches provide more tactile feedback and durability compared to membrane switches. Within the mechanical switch category, there are several popular switch types, such as:

Cherry MX Red: These switches are linear and require less force to actuate. They are popular among gamers who need quick response times and minimal resistance.

Cherry MX Brown: These switches are tactile and require a medium amount of force to actuate. They provide a satisfying "bump" feedback when pressed, making them a good option for typing and gaming.

Cherry MX Blue: These switches are clicky and tactile, requiring a high amount of force to actuate. They provide both an audible and tactile feedback when pressed, which some gamers find satisfying. However, the loud clicking noise may be distracting to others.

Switch type is a matter of personal preference, so it's a good idea to try out different keyboards and switches before making a purchase.

2. Key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting

Key rollover and anti-ghosting are terms that refer to the number of keys a keyboard can register at the same time. Key rollover refers to how many keys a keyboard can register simultaneously, while anti-ghosting refers to how many keys can be pressed at the same time without any of them being missed.

Gaming keyboards typically have higher key rollover and anti-ghosting capabilities compared to regular keyboards. Some gaming keyboards have full key rollover, which means every key can be pressed and registered at the same time. This is important for games that require multiple key presses at the same time, such as fighting games or MOBAs.

3. Backlighting

Backlighting is a popular feature in gaming keyboards that provides illumination in low-light conditions. Backlit keys come in different colors and patterns, and some keyboards even offer customizable lighting profiles. Backlighting can be useful for gamers who play in dimly lit rooms, or who prefer a certain color scheme for their setup.

4. Programmable Keys and Macros

Many gaming keyboards come with programmable keys and macros, which can be customized to perform specific actions or commands. Macros are a series of keystrokes that can be executed with a single press of a button. Programmable keys and macros can be useful for gamers who need to perform complex actions quickly, such as in MMOs or strategy games.

5. Form Factor

Gaming keyboards come in different form factors, such as full-size, compact, or tenkeyless. Full-size keyboards have the entire set of keys, including the numpad, while compact keyboards omit the numpad for a smaller footprint. Tenkeyless keyboards omit both the numpad and function keys for a more compact design. The form factor you choose will depend on your personal preference and available desk space.

6. Brand and Price

The brand and price of a gaming keyboard are also important factors to consider. Established brands such as Corsair, Razer, and Logitech have a reputation for producing high-quality gaming peripherals. However, they also tend to be more expensive compared to lesser-known brands. It's important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.

Conclusion

Choosing a gaming keyboard can be overwhelming, but by considering these tips, you can narrow down your options and find the best keyboard for your needs. Remember to prioritize switch type, key rollover, and anti-ghosting capabilities, and consider additional features such as backlighting, programmable keys, and form factor. With the right gaming keyboard, you can elevate your gaming experience and improve your gameplay.