The gaming keyboard, along with the mouse, is the most important link between you and the computer. But regardless of why you are gaming, whether you are a professional esports gamer or a recreational gamer, having the right gaming keyboard is vital. This is how you communicate with the machine and having the best gaming peripherals at your disposal is decisive if you’re going to take out the competition and give your game a good advantage.
In this article, we are looking at 5 very popular gaming keyboards. A BUYER’S GUIDE that explains the type and features of gaming keyboards, and Gaming Keyboard FAQ section.
Table could not be displayed.Best Gaming Keyboards
1. CORSAIR K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard
No products found.
Brands like CORSAIR are known all over the world for improving the PC experience. Regardless of the competition, CORSAIR puts every effort into delivering the best PC equipment possible.
The CORSAIR K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard has repeatedly proven that it’s no exception to their outstanding customer service, exceptional attention to detail, and unbeatable performance that’s made them an Amazon’s Choice and given them remarkable consumer reviews. Also, have you seen the affordable price?
Product Highlights
CORSAIR blew people’s minds when they released the CORSAIR K55 RGB keyboard. The affordable keyboard is a perfect addition for seasoned gamers or those new to the field.
It has six programmable macro keys that allow you to assign single keystrokes and there is dedicated multimedia, and volume control. Consumers enjoy that feature mostly because it doesn’t affect playback. The CORSAIR K55 keyboard has over 10 lighting modes that let you play effortlessly in the dark and give you the option of choosing between a single backlight or illumination effects.
Additionally, this keyboard allows you to disable the Windows key while you’re playing, has a detachable wrist rest for ergonomically correct positioning, and collapsible feet. It is also quiet, and the keys are smooth to the touch.
Pros
- Great Price
- Programmable macro keys
- Wrist rest
Cons
- Backlight bleeding
- Bright num lock
- Not the best for playing in the dark
What’s to like about the CORSAIR K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard
One of the greatest things about this keyboard is the price. I found that you get more than what you pay for in the case of the CORSAIR K55.
There wasn’t any software needed, it came with functional media buttons, had multimedia and volume controls, and included wrist rest and programmable illumination. All of that for under $60? The K55 has all that to look for in a gaming keyboard.
What’s not to like about the CORSAIR K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard
With this particular keyboard, I found that the illumination and backlights weren’t as bright as I expected them to be and that the effects blend quite a bit when programming customized lighting.
I also found that the num lock pad was very bright, as it should just be a small dot, but it illuminates most of the keyboard. Additionally, the keys themselves have no backlighting, so there are better keyboards for playing in the dark.
No products found.
2. Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
No products found.
Most computer users are familiar with the Logitech brand as they’ve been producing computer accessories for decades, and are one of the most well-known brands.
The Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard brings new life to gaming equipment, and the high consumer reviews, Amazon’s Choice rating, and overall design and build ensure you’re getting a solid keyboard.
Product Highlights
The G810 is a beautiful keyboard and one that was designed to focus more on function. While there are things that this keyboard doesn’t do, it has a great design and a sturdy weight that keeps it in place throughout rigorous gaming.
The matte keys against a glossy sheen bring classic elegance to the Logitech keyboard, and we found it was eye-catching for multiple reasons. It’s a full-size keyboard and has up to 25% faster key performance than other mechanical switches. Additionally, the RGB lighting stands out incredibly with customizable settings that include over 16 million color combinations.
It’s compatible with a broad range of Windows environments, and easy-access media controls make it a breeze to adjust volume, and skip songs. You can also use the included software to program macros with Logitech Gaming Software.
Pros
- Useful media controls
- Solid weight to keep it from moving
- Simple design
Cons
- Bright lights
- Easily scratched
What’s to like about the Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The simple design of the Logitech keyboard was a selling point for me. Everything is neatly and tidily laid out and easy to find. I also enjoy the classic look of the keyboard because, from a distance, you can’t tell that it’s a gamer’s keyboard.
The media controls are handy and almost worth the entire price of the unit on its own. I also like the weight of the keyboard; it is slim, but it has quite a bit of weight to it so there’s no risk of it jostling or sliding around during gameplay and it stands higher than many others.
What’s not to like about the Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Considering the price, though many keyboards cost more, I feel like the packaging could have been improved, and it would have been nice to receive a wrist rest with the keyboard.
I did notice that the keyboard gets scratched easily which is due to the glossy finish. The keyboard does what it’s supposed to do, but it was louder than initially expected. It also would have been a great feature to be able to dim the lights on the keyboard which can be quite bright.
No products found.
3. ANEWISH 2.4GHz Mini Wireless Keyboard with Touchpad Mouse Combo
No products found.
The first wireless keyboard on our list is different from the other two, and not just because of its wireless capabilities and touchpad mouse. The Amazon’s Choice, the affordable keyboard has glowing reviews, but that’s not what sets it apart either.
This keyboard has multiple uses and functions, and it’s smaller than all of the rest. Many people look at the keyboard and think it’s not something that can be used for gaming, but it can; it just depends on the gaming that you’re doing.
Product Highlights
The ANEWISH 2.4 Ghz Mini Wireless Keyboard is designed in a way that makes gamers feel like they’re holding a gaming system controller and can get connected to multiple devices that have a standard USB port.
The touchpad mouse provides a natural combination and makes it convenient when flipping between both methods of playing. One of the best things about this wireless keyboard, in particular, is that it has a lithium battery that is rechargeable built right in, so there’s no need to always worry about having additional batteries lying around.
While it doesn’t have some of the cool lighting effects that some other keyboards have, it does have a backlight that you can turn off at the simple press of two buttons.
Pros
- Easy to sync with multiple devices
- Lightweight and compact
- Charging cable included
Cons
- No “wake up” function
- Glitchy touchpad
- Not ideal for gaming
What’s to like about the ANEWISH 2.4GHz Mini Wireless Keyboard with Touchpad Mouse Combo
Multitasking is made easy with the ANEWISH keyboard, and it’s one of the things that we liked the best. You can easily sync it with your Android devices, TV box, and use it as a remote control.
The keyboard is very responsive, and the included USB charging cable is a nice change from other brands that require you to buy them separately. Also, it has a great price point.
What’s not to like about the ANEWISH 2.4GHz Mini Wireless Keyboard with Touchpad Mouse Combo
Personally, I don’t feel like this is an ideal keyboard for gaming. The small device is perfect when controlling other forms of entertainment, but I wouldn’t recommend it for serious and professional gamers who need to get more out of their keyboard.
Another downfall is you still require the original controllers for the devices that you sync it to because it can’t wake them up or turn them on as a universal remote can. Also, I noticed that while the keys are responsive, the touchpad sometimes loses its connection and has a bit of a delay.
4. Ambolove Backlit Wireless Mini Keyboard with Touchpad Mouse and Multimedia Keys
No products found.
The fourth option on the list and another wireless mini keyboard is the AMBOLOVE Backlit Wireless Mini Keyboard with Touchpad.
It is similar to the ANEWISH model in a variety of ways, but some things stand out, and the model has recently been updated. Let’s take a look at some of the features that caused this keyboard to earn its way on this list.
Product Highlights
Life is hectic and busy, so being able to multitask is something almost everyone wants to do, and the AMBOLOVE’s multifunction capabilities let you do just that.
The Amolove is a three-in-one mini keyboard and touchpad mouse combo that has a backlight display in three different colors. Being able to play games in the dark is a huge selling point for a lot of gamers, and this small device lets you do just that. It’s easy to carry, compact, and has everything you need to sync up other devices. Compatible with PC, HTPC, Android TV box, Smart TV, and more, you get more than what you pay for, and the high reviews show it’s worth the low cost.
The keyboard is durable and was designed for multi-finger use. The customer service provides an unconditional 30-day money-back guarantee so you don’t have to worry about your purchase.
Pros
- Three-color backlight display
- Multifunctional
- Compact and easy to carry
Cons
- Not ideal for gaming
- Misplaced arrow keys
- The touchpad has no “click”
What’s to like about the Ambolove Backlit Wireless Mini Keyboard with Touchpad Mouse and Multimedia Keys
Mostly, I found this mini keyboard to be remarkably similar to the ANEWISH, so the highlight for me is the three backlight colors.
Regardless of what you use the mini keyboard for, being able to change the color heightens the experience drastically. Additionally, its small size, and multifunction uses are what secured its spot on this list.
What’s not to like about the Ambolove Backlit Wireless Mini Keyboard with Touchpad Mouse and Multimedia Keys
Again, I don’t feel like these are the best keyboards for gaming, so I don’t like it for that purpose. The arrow keys are out of place and would be better placed on the left-hand side, and one of the significant dislikes is the touchpad. You do need to tap the L button to command a mouse “click,” and it’s inconvenient in that regard.
5. Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2 – RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
No products found.
Taking things back and away from the wireless keyboards, we’re looking at the last keyboard on our list of the best gaming keyboards.
As one of the keyboards with the highest consumer ratings, and an Amazon’s Choice, we wanted to put it to the test to see if it did justice and stood out among the rest. What did we find out? Keep reading.
Product Highlights
This keyboard seems like it’s the pinnacle of gaming keyboards. It was explicitly designed for novice and professional gamers in mind to not only heighten their experience but to make gaming a more interactive activity.
The Razer mechanical switches are unlike any other, and it has keys that are individually illuminated with over 16.8 million customizable colors thanks to Razer’s trademark Chroma technology.
Additionally, the keyboard comes with a wrist rest that’s perfect for the long game time, and it includes the anti-ghosting feature which allows you to prompt ten commands simultaneously.
Pros
- Almost 17 million customizable color options
- Comfortable wrist rest
- Durable design
Cons
- Thin keys at the top
- Oddly shaped keys
- Slightly loud
What’s to like about the Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2 – RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
There isn’t much that I didn’t like about this keyboard. The wrist rest was extremely comfortable, and there wasn’t any cramping after extended use.
The keyboard is well worth the slightly higher price tag, and the nearly 17 million color combinations made it not just a gaming necessity, but it made it fun, too. It’s lightweight but built very solid to absorb the rough play from gamers.
What’s not to like about the Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2 – RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Something I did notice is that the keys at the top are thin, which isn’t a defect, it’s just part of the design to make way for more of the backlight.
The spacing of the keys is also different from other standard keyboards, so I found it took longer than necessary to get used to. Another downfall is the keyboard isn’t as quiet as I thought it was going to be.
BUYER’S GUIDE
Picking out a gaming keyboard isn’t as easy as it seems. There are loads of keyboards on the market that entice you with neat tricks, bright lights, and cool features you won’t find anywhere else.
What to Look for in a Gaming Keyboard. Features and Build
What matters most is how the keyboard is going to enhance your gaming experience. If you don’t know what to look for when you’re going to buy a gaming keyboard, you’re likely going to return home having spent way too much money on something undeserving. Follow this guideline to help you decide.
Types of Keyboards (Wired/Wireless)
In the past, purchasing a wireless gaming keyboard would have cost you a pretty penny, but now the prices are relatively the same. When you’re going to buy a new keyboard, there are two aspects that you want to think about.
Do you prefer wired keyboards or wireless? Some pros and cons come with each. If you decide to purchase a wireless keyboard, it’s important to understand that you need to worry about battery life. That means that your battery could die while you’re in the middle of an important game. However, if you need the ability to move around freely, the wireless keyboard is your best bet.
Wired keyboards, on the other hand, don’t require a battery and remain stationary during your gaming experience. It’s all a matter of what type of gaming you do, and your personal preferences.
Key Type (Membrane/Mechanical)
Now that you’ve decided whether or not you want a wired or wireless keyboard, it’s time to determine if you’d prefer a mechanical or a membrane keyboard.
Mechanical keyboards are what you would typically see with a standard desktop computer. They have buttons that attach to a switch and coordinate with a specific letter or number.
Membrane keyboards work a bit differently. The unit as a whole is lighter, each letter and number is separated by outlines, and it’s an electrical current that identifies the number or letter that you press.
Switch Type
There are multiple types of switches with mechanical keyboards, but the majority are considered Linear switches, Tactile switches, or Clicky switches.
Linear switches are smooth to the touch and make no sound when typing, whereas tactile switches have a small bump and are also quiet when typing. Both linear and tactile switches are the most popular of the three because of how quiet they are.
Clicky switches have a bump just like tactile; however, they make an audible clicking noise when typing on the keys.
Illumination/Backlighting
Many gamers like to play their games in the dark because it heightens the game itself and can even make it more realistic. That’s not always the most natural thing to do without a keyboard that has some backlighting.
The majority of gamer keyboards on the market today were designed with illumination and backlighting sequences for that purpose. Not only is it super cool to look at it, but some keyboards even offer the ability to customize the backlight which can cause the colors to react during certain movements throughout the game.
Build Quality
Whether you’re an experienced gamer or not, you probably already know that you can be rough on your keyboard. Players are continually pressing down hard on the keys, which means whatever keyboard you choose needs to be able to take a beating of sorts.
The durability and build of the keyboard should be one of the highest factors in your decision-making process. The best way for you to determine if it’s durable is by getting a feel of one in-store and looking up consumer reviews.
Price
The prices for gamer keyboards range drastically and consider many things. Typically, they range from $25 up to $350, but it depends on the features. For example, purchasing a mechanical keyboard with standard backlighting is going to be much cheaper than buying a membrane keyboard, with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities, along with customizable illumination.
However, just because a keyboard has more features, doesn’t always mean that it’s better. Taking a look at all of your options and not making a judgment based on how the unit looks could save you money.
It’s better to spend more on a keyboard that’s going to last than to purchase a cheap one that you need to replace in just a few months or less.
Gaming Keyboard F.A.Q.
What to Look for in a Gaming Keyboard?
The type of keyboard that you’re going to look for depends on the type of gaming that you’re going to do. You need to consider durability, price, and features when searching for your perfect keyboard, and decide if you want the best deal, or if you want to make an investment that you know is going to stand the test of time. Mechanical or membrane keyboards rated to last with over 50 million keystrokes, and have customizable backlight and illumination, N-Key rollover, and metal construction are considered higher-end keyboards and could be the best solution for a professional or highly experienced gamer.
How to Clean a Gaming Keyboard?
Keyboards can last for a long time when they are adequately taken care of, and cleaning your keyboard on a regular basis is a must. Like with anything, grime builds deposits on the keys, and as time goes on, skin particles, dust, food, and other airborne particulars could end up beneath the keys, lowering the function of your keyboard. There are many ways that you can clean a keyboard, but to keep it simple, it’s recommended that you invest in a key puller to remove the caps from your keys. From there, you can clean in between each key with a Q-Tip, and follow it up by running a vacuum over the capless switches. You can find many tutorials on YouTube if you require further instruction on cleaning your gamer keyboards.
How to Use Game Keyboard?
Using your gamer keyboard is going to be similar to using a regular keyboard that would come with a desktop computer. Mostly, the only differences are the backlighting and some advanced features that make it ideal for swift keying.
Depending on the type of keyboard that you purchase, it’s best to look at the owner’s manual that comes with your keyboard so you can read through the proper instructions. For example, if you can customize your backlighting to react to specific movements and actions throughout your game to intensify the experience, your owner’s manual is going to show you the customization process.
Additionally, the manual also walks you through Bluetooth syncing for wireless keyboards, and all other necessary information that you need.
Are Mechanical Keyboards Better for Gaming?
Everyone has their personal preferences when it comes to the keyboards that they use. However, I believe mechanical keyboards to be the better option.
Not only are they more durable and have been around for decades, but the variety that they come in make it easier to find the perfect keyboard for your gaming needs. Ideally, you should look for a mechanical keyboard that has a life span of 50 million keystrokes.
Does Keyboard Matter for Gaming?
The question of if keyboards matter when it comes to gaming is one that’s been asked time and again, and it’s one that many people have different answers for. There is no strict rule stating that you need to have a specially designed keyboard to play your game because you don’t.
There have been times when no difference is noticed with response times between standard keyboards and gamer keyboards. That being said, response times can vary with wireless keyboards, so it is suggested that you purchase one designed for gaming if you prefer a wireless gaming keyboard.
Outside of those few details and some backlighting features, you might be able to get by with a regular keyboard. It could be worth the shot.
FINAL VERDICT
Out of all five of the gaming keyboards and comparing them against each other, I’ve picked my ultimate favorite. I looked at consumer reviews, pricing, features, design, durability, and how well the keyboard would perform under the intense fingertips of a gamer.
The Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2 – RGH Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is the best bet, it has all you want from a gaming keyboard. Not only is it ergonomically correct with the wrist rest, but it has a lifetime of over 50 million keystrokes, nearly 17 million customizable colors, and a specific design for a gamer. In my opinion, the price could be double, and it’s still something that I’d invest in.
