Whether you want to pull in a competitive edge or just wad around with some RGB lighting , you ’ll call for one of the best gaming keyboards . Although the old guard of brands like Corsair , SteelSeries , and Razer still make some excellent play keyboard , the competition is fierce in 2024 , with smaller brands originate up to advertize the market of gaming keyboards fore .
An excellent example of that is our top selection , Asus ' ROG Strix Scope II 96 , which raise gaming keyboard to an enthusiast level while maintaining a mainstream price . Although it ’s the top gaming keyboard for most people , it is n’t the skillful for everyone . After put our fingers on dozens of different gaming keyboards , these 10 are the only 1 you should keep in idea .
The best gaming keyboard
Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96
Why you should buy this : It nail the in high spirits - end gaming experience without going overboard on terms .
Who it ’s for : Gamers who want a little bit of everything .
Why we chose the Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 :
TheAsus ROG Strix Scope II 96defies logical system in more way than one . At $ 150 , Asus is able to furnish one of the good sounding and feeling keyboards on the marketplace , all while packing in premium wireless , a comfortable radiocarpal joint rest , per - key RGB kindling , and shockingly near switch .
There are two thing that help the genus Strix Scope II 96 achieve such a tremendous feel . It include add-in foam , absorbing the hollow Ping River you get on most gambling keyboard , and it number with lube ROG NX Snow switch . These two factor allow it to get penny-pinching to the typing experience you get on enthusiast - spirit level gaming keyboard , but Asus still comes in at a mainstream Leontyne Price .
Outside of the smell , Asus opted for a 96 % layout for this keyboard , which saves a short ton of space . You get all of the keystone available on a full - sized keyboard , but they ’re push closer together . It does n’t sound like a big difference , but the Strix Scope II 96 feels much smaller than a normal keyboard when it ’s really set up on your desk .
Between the unique layout and fantabulous gaming experience , the ROG Strix Scope II 96 is well-off to recommend . It pinpoint every view of a gaming keyboard we desire to see , labor far beyond the other choice available at this price .
The best cheap gaming keyboard
HyperX Alloy Origins Core
Why you should buy this : It ’s a cheap mechanically skillful gaming keyboard that feel like a premium selection .
Who it ’s for : Gamers on a budget who still need a timber mechanical keyboard .
Why we choose the HyperX Alloy Origins Core :
The HyperX Alloy Origins Core is an unassuming mechanical play keyboard , which means one affair : It ’s sleazy . Coming around $ 80 , and often on sale for around $ 60 to $ 70 , the HyperX Alloy Origins cut the frippery and provides a grand gaming experience at a fraction of the cost .
All of the essentials are here : True mechanical switches , pre - key RGB inflammation , and an aircraft - level atomic number 13 physical structure . You have the options between linear , tactile , or clicking switch , so you could pick up a model for work , gaming , or anything in between .
The Alloy Origins Core has a lot of goodies , too , include onboard profile memory board , macro support , and a detachable USB - C cable . It does n’t come with a wrist rest or dedicated medium clit , but considering the price , the Alloy Origins Core gets a mountain right .
The best wireless gaming keyboard
Asus ROG Azoth
Why you should buy this : It ’s arguably the good gaming keyboard ever made .
Who it ’s for : Gamers who desire custom - keyboard tone , in good order off the ledge .
Why we select the Asus ROG Azoth :
It ’s rare for an off - the - ledge keyboard to really touch the good custom keyboard , but that ’s precisely what the Asus ROG Azoth did when we put it through its tempo . It offer an almost - unique typing experience , a supremely sturdy design , soft and comfortable keycaps , and it ’s incredibly quiet . The atomic number 14 gasket mount assist cushion every keypress without inhibiting truth or typing speeding , and there are stabiliser on all the big keys , so they feel the same no matter where you dispatch them .
The switches are Asus ' own NX switches , in either analog ruddy , tactile Robert Brown , or clicky blue devil . They ’re near , but not amazing . Fortunately , this is a keyboard you may easy customise , so you may corrupt your favorite brand of switches and slot them right in to this deeply customizable keyboard . The wireless functionality is a genuine treat too , with options for 2.4Ghz and Bluetooth link making sure you may have a subline gaming space with as few telegram as possible . Battery life is great , survive multiple day of utilisation without needing a charge .
The short OLED presentation in the corner is a nice touch sensation . It ’s a little gimmicky , but it can expose some useful information without your PC ’s temperatures or fan speeds . you’re able to also have it play custom animations or show whatever text edition you like , should you wish .
It ’s an expensive board , but one well deserving give for if you want the good of the good .
The best gaming keyboard with Hall Effect switches
Keychron Q1 HE
Why you should grease one’s palms this : It ’s one of the best - sense keyboards you may buy , and it ’s extremely fast .
Who it ’s for : Enthusiasts who require a agiotage typewriting and play experience without much fuss .
Why we choose the Keychron Q1 HE :
Keychron ’s Q1is a fabled keyboard , and thenew HE modelis even well . It takes the comfortable 75 % layout , excellent build quality , and seemingly endless customization of the Q1 and total Hall Effect , or magnetic , switches . These switches can provide a nearly instant answer , get them excellent for gaming .
The switches on this keyboard come from Gateron , and they use two fight back magnets . you’re able to customise where each primal activates based on the length between these two magnets , down to 0.1 mm . you could also set multiple commands to a single key , activating at dissimilar point as you press down and free the substitution .
It ’s a useful feature , but Keychron manages to add together magnetic electrical switch while maintain the excellent typewriting experience of the original Q1 . You still get panel foam and a double gasket setting , leading to a silky typewriting experience that allows you to vaporize across the keys .
The expected trim are here , as well , including Windows and macOS support , receiving set through Bluetooth or 2.4GHz , and a consecrate metal volume rack . Keychron has managed to teeter on the edge between mainstream and fancier keyboards , and the Q1 HE shows how the party keep Libra . It ’s almost perfect out of the box , but you still have plenty of selection to tailor-make the keyboard if you wish .
The best gaming keyboard for esports
SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless
Why you should corrupt this : It ’s the most adjustable 60 % gaming keyboard you could grease one’s palms .
Who it ’s for : Competitive gamers who want every reward possible .
Why we chose the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini :
The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini is an retiring 60 % keyboard , but it has a lot of interesting features beneath its basic outside . It uses SteelSeries ' Omnipoint 2.0 switches , which allow you to adjust the actuation point through software package from 0.2 mm up to 3.8 mm .
For private-enterprise gamers who need split - second reactions , the adjustable propulsion makes a huge conflict . At its small full point , all you postulate to do is feather the replacement to register an input , which lay down quick twofold - tap and reactive input much easier to pull off .
The Apex Pro Mini is a great play keyboard outside of its unequaled mechanical switches , too . It works with low - latency 2.4GHz wireless , Bluetooth , or through a wired connection , and SteelSeries ' GG software allows you to pose up macro instruction , rebind keys , and much , much more .
The best compact gaming keyboard
Asus ROG Falchion RX LP
Why you should buy this : It does n’t give sound or feel , despite the low - profile frame factor .
Who it ’s for : Gamers who need something stocky .
Why we chose the Asus ROG Falchion RX LP :
We ’ve determine a trend toward low - profile play keyboards over the last few year , but there is n’t a keyboard that bond the landing like theAsus ROG Falchion RX LP . It ’s the standard small - visibility matter , with fragile keycaps and even thinner switches , but Asus puddle a few primal changes to its design that help oneself it experience and sound much better .
The braggy change is board froth . There are two layer of Si inside the keyboard that help absorb the pinging noise you get on keyboard without any sound soaking up . The ROG Falchion RX LP still has that snappy response that blue - profile keyboard are known for , but the sound and feel is much more agiotage .
In addition , the keycaps get along with a unique blueprint . Asus uses four pins on each quoin of the shift that clack into place on the keycaps . This stabilizes the keycaps on top of the permutation so that they do n’t shift . It may sound belittled , but it ’s important to have a stable typewriting experience on a low - profile keyboard , and the Falchion RX LP nail that .
This keyboard run beyond just feel , though . It include tri - mode radio , as well as a sensing element on the back that you may bind to commands like mass and media control condition . Asus also oversee to fit the number of key on a 65 % keyboard in the space of a 60 % keyboard , making the ROG Falchion RX LP feel even smaller than it already is .
The best gaming keyboard for customizations
Glorious GMMK Pro
Why you should buy this : A well - work up customs gambling keyboard for enthusiasts .
Who it ’s for : Gamers who want to plunge into the custom keyboards family .
Why we choose the Glorious GMMK Pro :
Custom keyboardsallow you to build them in a way that best fit your motive . The Glorious GMMK Pro is one such option and is an first-class choice if you desire to build up your first keyboard . It ’s a 75 % mechanically skillful keyboard where , apart from the electrical switch and keycaps , you could also commute the programmable orbitual knob , the USB - degree Celsius cable , and the included aluminum PCB switch plate . The all - aluminum figure and base crustal plate control a upstanding physique quality , plus you get per - key RGB backlighting , macro - programmable key , and the Glorious Core computer software to control everything .
It is a barebones keyboard , so you need to invest extra in electric switch and keycaps , although the 5 - pin socket intend you’re able to install almost any mechanically skillful permutation choice available on the market . The only downside of the keyboard is that it has a tall profile , so it might not be for everyone and there are no adjustable substructure nor does it make out with a wrist rest .
The best gaming keyboard with RGB
Corsair K65 Plus
Why you should bribe this : It ’s the safe Corsair gaming keyboard on the market .
Who it ’s for : Gamers who need to step up their keyboard game without interminable inquiry .
Why we prefer the Corsair K65 Plus :
TheCorsair K65 Plusputs Corsair back in the gaming keyboard competition in a freehanded way . This is Corsair ’s first 75 % keyboard , and it comes with plenty of agiotage features . You ’re free to not only swap out the keycaps , but also the electrical switch , and you get a dedicated metallic element book bicycle .
What really makes the difference is instrument panel foam , however . This is the first Corsair keyboard with establish - in audio dampening , and it entirely transforms the sound and feeling of the keyboard . This find like the premium keyboard that Corsair has been hear to nail for the past several age .
It ’s not too expensive , either . At $ 160 , the K65 Plus for certain is n’t cheap , but you get a band for that cost . Most notably , you get Corsair ’s first-class Slipstream wireless technical school , along with Bluetooth . Corsair even include a slot to hold the transcriber at the back of the keyboard . Considering we were control much less keyboard that only held a wired connection from Corsair a few long time ago , the K65 Plus is a massive measure up .
The cheapest mechanical gaming keyboard
Keychron C3 Pro
Why you should bribe this : It ’s the cheapest customizable mechanical keyboard you could bribe .
Who it ’s for : Gamers on the tightest of budget who still want a customizable mechanically skillful keyboard .
Why we chose the Keychron C3 Pro :
The Keychron C3 Pro is a fully usable mechanical keyboard with fantabulous tactile switches , remappable office , and gasket mounting for quiet typing and gambling . It ’s a near - sodding mechanical keyboard parcel price around $ 35 . It ’s half the price of where even affordable mechanically skillful keyboards usually ride , make up it a star accession to any budget - gamer ’s setup .
There is no RGB backlighting , but you get red backlighting to illuminate the keys in the shadow , and it has a 1,000 Hz polling charge per unit , so it ’s responsive and well - suited for competitive gaming . It plunk for macOS and Windows , and you could toggle between layout at the press of a button . The tenkeyless layout is first-class for gaming , too , since it shed some of the extra keys and keyboard elements that you wo n’t need for most games . That save place and facilitate keep the price down .
Best gaming keyboard for esports
Wooting 60HE+
Why you should purchase this : It ’s about as tight as gaming keyboard can get .
Who it ’s for : Professionals , or gamers who want to take their game very seriously .
Why we select the Wooting 60HE+ :
play keyboard are degraded , but they do n’t tend to make youthatmuch faster than a more generic mechanically skillful keyboard , or even some of the ancient rubber - dome tissue layer alternative . Not when there are so many other factors that can impact your reaction pep pill , from yourmonitor ’s refresh rateto your own chemical reaction time .
But the Wooting 60HE+ is n’t for most gamers . It ’s for gamers looking to eke out every possible advantage they can to get that next win . If you already have a in high spirits - end play monitoring gadget , a superfast gambling PC , and conceive you are as fast as you’re able to get , then a Wooting 60HE+ might be just what you need to take your gaming skills to the next floor .
It ’s fitted with Gateron x Lekker magnetized Hall Effect switches – some of the debauched keyboard switches you may recover – with customizable propulsion distances to as shallow as 0.1 mm . That wee them blazing tight by themselves , but they also support " Rapid Trigger " and " Rappy Snappy " keypress techniques , for superfast strafing and other free-enterprise gambling moves to keep you ahead of the competition .
Do n’t like the switch ? you could swap them out for something else . Find the 60 % layout too constricting ? you’re able to use the onboard software to double up commands to expatiate its utilization . There ’s per - key RGB ignition , infinite remappability for each key , and you may even take the display board asunder and supplant case-by-case components for a sincerely tailor-make look and feel .
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally , keyboard follow in a standard 104 - key layout complete with a routine pad of paper . But for gaming , it can be interesting to contemplate smaller keyboard layouts , sacrificing practicality in favour of a more thick keyboard . The primary intellect you would want to do this is to clear up desk blank space for your mouse — having a wide - unresolved space for your shiner next to a minor keyboard allows you to play at lower DPI options and make longer sweeps without running into your keyboard , thus increase your in - game public presentation .
A full - size of it keyboard is a good option if it ’s your only keyboard and it will need to reduplicate as a work keyboard . Another result could be that 60 % keyboard layouts are the best for first - person shooters , but as they make a lot of sacrifices to meet the stocky footprint requirement , TKL ( tenkeyless , or num - pad gratuitous ) keyboards generally extend a more desirable balance of feature of speech .
In the macrocosm of gaming keyboard , switches are all the rave . Generally , mechanical keyboards always take the dirty money in this family , mainly for the feel of their mechanical actuation . Traditionally , there are three main types of permutation : Linear , tactual , and clicky . Linear switches journey down with adequate force along the shot , whereas tactile shift have a distinct excrescence on the way down . Clicky switch have haptic travelling but also volunteer a click midway through the throw to show that they have actuated and sent the sign to the microcomputer .
But by now , there are more switch options than just Cherry MX Red , dark-brown , and gloomy . These come in low - visibility now too , and there is a new MX Speed Silver switch on the grocery , which is like a elongate red switch but with a riotous actuation point and lighter travel .
Meanwhile , a lot of keyboard manufacturers are come out with their own switches , like Corsair ’s OPX opthalmic switch . Razer has its own , Logitech has the Romer - G electric switch on many of its keyboard , and there are third - political party switch makers like Kailh and Gateron that provide switches also used in many of today ’s keyboards .
Generally , we recommend linear switches for arrant gamers and tactile switches for those who type a mickle . If you ’re only typing , a clicky blue switch can be very square , though your surround might not be quite as appreciative of your click - chatter keyboard if you go down that road , loosely leaving the choice between linear and tactile switch .
Most gambling hardware arrive with RGB lighting nowadays , whether that ’s something you care for or not , so it ’s no surprise that all of the better play keyboards have it too . The beneficial ecosystems , such as those from Corsair , Logitech , and Razer , have computer software that runs on your PC that allows you to get very nitpicky about your lighting effect and allow for livelihood that can sync with other compatible RGB firing in your setup . Cheaper keyboard may have similar systems but generally rely on on - keyboard kindling profile that lack any significant customization alternative beyond a select few effect types and color options .
Additionally , the RGB inflammation quality can also vary massively between keyboards . Some have very lackluster carrying out that miss vibrancy and smartness , while others offer precisely that . This can bet on the keycap , substitution case , and the color of the backplate underneath the switches .
We do n’t really evoke a rightfully ergonomic keyboard design for gaming , as the re - set keys can be inept to expend for gambling purposes . However , a good keyboard with the right substitution type , elevation , and timbre carpus rest can do miracles for your typing quilt .
Your posture is also important . Sit too low , and you ’ll roost your shoulders up . Sit too high , and you ’ll have to carry your arm . A wrist rest is easy to improvise with a towel , but carpus pain can take weeks to recover from . Do yourself a party favour and adjust your seat , desk , and monitor to the correct height to control you do n’t have to lose gaming sitting with your champion .
The good gambling keyboard for esports is the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless . It does n’t have a number pad , which saves you some room for black eye pic , and it include a tournament electrical switch that turns off some spare features to keep your performance reproducible during a contention .
If you need even more room for your computer mouse , the Razer BlackWidow V3 is an excellent 65 % keyboard that has an even pocket-sized step .
