Hi Gamers, are you looking for the best gaming keyboards? For dedicated gamers, selecting the right gaming keyboard is not just about having a tool for input; it’s about enhancing the entire gaming experience. The right keyboard can make the difference between victory and defeat, providing faster response times, precise control, and durability for those marathon gaming sessions. Gaming keyboards today come with a range of features tailored to different gaming styles, including customizable RGB lighting, interchangeable keycaps, and programmable keys. Combined with a top-notch gaming chair and desk, the right keyboard can significantly elevate your gameplay.
Major brands like Asus, Logitech, and Razer offer ergonomic keyboards with various connectivity options and sizes, making it easier to find one that fits your specific needs. This guide will walk you through the best gaming keyboards available in 2024 and help you understand what to look for when making your choice.
The gaming keyboard you choose should match your gaming style, skill level and work well with your favorite games. It should also be fully compatible with your other gaming gear.
Best Full-Size Gaming Keyboard: Razer Huntsman V4 Pro
Specifications:
Size: Full-size
Connectivity: Wired
Keycaps: Doubleshot ABS
Switch Type: Razer Green mechanical switches (Tactile/Clicky)
Lighting: Razer Chroma RGB per-key and under-glow
Dimensions: 18.36 x 6.01 x 1.73 inches
The Razer Huntsman V4 Pro stands out as a high-end full-size gaming keyboard. It features customizable per-key and under-glow RGB lighting, adding a dynamic look to your gaming setup. The multi-function roller and four independent media keys offer convenient control over your audio and other settings. With five programmable macro keys and three dedicated macro buttons, you can bind commands for complex gameplay easily. The keyboard comes with a detachable USB Type-C cable and supports onboard storage for up to five game profiles, making it a versatile choice for hardcore gamers.
Best Tenkeyless (TKL) Gaming Keyboard: Logitech G915 TKL
Specifications:
Size: TKL
Connectivity: Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless
Keycaps: Oleophobic-coated
Switch Type: Choose at time of purchase (Clicky, Tactile, or Linear)
Lighting: Per-key RGB
Dimensions: 14.49 x 5.91 x 0.87 inches
The Logitech G915 TKL offers a compact design with dual wireless connectivity, making it an excellent choice for gamers who want to avoid cable clutter. It features low-profile mechanical switches and a thin casing made from 5052 aluminum alloy, combining durability with a sleek design. The keyboard has internal storage for lighting and macro profiles and integrates four function keys and dedicated media controls. Its battery life extends up to 40 hours, and it supports over 16.8 million colors, making it both functional and visually impressive.
Best Wireless Gaming Keyboard: SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless
Specifications:
Size: TKL
Connectivity: Dual wireless (Bluetooth and 2.4GHz) or wired
Keycaps: PBT
Switch Type: OmniPoint 2.0 adjustable HyperMagnetic
Lighting: Per-key RGB
Dimensions: 14 x 5.04 x 1.65 inches
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless boasts impressive performance metrics, including 20x faster actuation and 11x faster response time compared to traditional mechanical keyboards. Its OmniPoint 2.0 adjustable hypermagnetic switches allow for personalized keypress sensitivity, giving gamers a unique advantage. The keyboard supports both wireless and wired connectivity, with a battery life up to 45 hours via Bluetooth. It features a durable aluminum casing and customizable per-key RGB lighting. An OLED display provides real-time performance stats, and onboard memory can store up to five profiles.
Best 60% Gaming Keyboard: Razer Huntsman Mini
Specifications:
Size: 60%
Connectivity: Wired
Keycaps: Doubleshot PBT
Switch Type: Razer Optical (Clicky, Linear, or Optical)
Lighting: Razer Chroma per-key RGB
Dimensions: 11.56 x 4.07 x 1.45 inches
The Razer Huntsman Mini is ideal for gamers who need a compact, wired keyboard. Its 60% form factor saves desk space, although it lacks dedicated function or media keys. This model features durable aluminum construction and programmable keys with N-key rollover and integrated anti-ghosting. It supports up to five profiles stored internally and offers customizable RGB lighting through Razer Synapse software, making it a solid choice for gamers who value both performance and portability.
Best 80% Gaming Keyboard: Asus ROG Claymore II
Specifications:
Size: Full-size or 80% TKL
Connectivity: Wireless (2.4GHz and USB) or wired
Keycaps: PBT doubleshot
Switch Type: ROG Red or ROG Blue
Lighting: Per-key RGB
Dimensions: 21.26 x 7.48 x 3.31 inches
The Asus ROG Claymore II offers a unique feature with its detachable numeric keypad, allowing users to switch between a full-size and TKL keyboard. This flexibility is complemented by wireless and wired connectivity options, with impressive battery life up to 43 hours. The keyboard features PBT doubleshot keycaps, per-key RGB lighting, and a detachable wrist rest for added comfort. Its customizable hotkeys and volume control wheel add to its functionality, making it a versatile option for any gaming setup.
What to Consider When Choosing a Gaming Keyboard
1. Connectivity
Gaming keyboards can be wired, wireless, or both. Wired keyboards provide a direct, reliable connection, which is crucial for competitive gaming. They are generally less expensive but can add to cable clutter. Wireless keyboards offer freedom from cables and greater flexibility in positioning. They come in two types:
RF (2.4GHz): Requires a USB dongle, generally reliable.
Bluetooth: No dongle required, allows for multiport pairing, best with Bluetooth 5.0 or later for stable connections.
2. Customizability
Look for keyboards that allow you to customize keycaps and switches. Some advanced models let you swap these out at the time of purchase or later, providing a tailored gaming experience.
3. Design and Durability
High-quality materials are essential for a gaming keyboard to withstand intense use. Look for keyboards with ergonomic designs that offer angle adjustments and removable wrist rests. Some models are also water-resistant for added protection.
4. Extra Features
Consider keyboards with internal memory for game-specific profiles, displays for settings, and specialized function keys. Software that facilitates customizations, key mapping, and profile management can enhance your gaming experience.
5. Keyboard Size and Layout
Choose the size and layout that best suits your needs:
Full-size: Includes all keys and a numeric keypad.
TKL (Tenkeyless): Excludes the numeric keypad, saving space.
60% and 80%: More compact, ideal for limited desk space but with fewer keys.
6. Key Switches and Keycaps
Key switches impact response time and the feel of the keyboard. Common types include:
Linear: Smooth and consistent keystrokes.
Tactile: Provides feedback when pressed.
Clicky: Audible click and tactile bump.
Keycaps, which cover the switches, are typically made from ABS plastic or higher-quality doubleshot PBT, offering better texture and durability. Pay attention to the keycap profile, as some are shaped to fit finger contours better.
7. N-key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting
N-key rollover allows for multiple simultaneous keypresses, which is essential for complex commands. Anti-ghosting ensures that rapid keystrokes are accurately registered.
8. RGB Lighting
Customizable RGB lighting can enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your keyboard. Look for programmable lighting that allows for individual key customization, backlit keys, and software that syncs lighting effects across your gaming setup.
Wired vs. Wireless: Which is Better for Gaming?
Wired keyboards have traditionally been favored for their reliable connections and absence of latency. They are typically less expensive but contribute to cable clutter and take up USB ports. Wireless keyboards have advanced significantly, now offering comparable response times and the advantage of flexible positioning. They are battery-powered, with RF and Bluetooth options providing different benefits.
RF Wireless Keyboards: Reliable 2.4GHz connection using a USB dongle.
Bluetooth Keyboards: No need for a USB port, supports multiport pairing, best with Bluetooth 5.0 or later.
Conclusion
Selecting the best gaming keyboard in 2024 involves balancing your specific needs with the features offered by different models. Whether you prioritize a compact design, advanced switch technology, or the flexibility of wireless connectivity, there’s a gaming keyboard out there for you. The key is to match the keyboard to your gaming style and ensure compatibility with your existing gear for the ultimate gaming experience.
Read Also
