Press Start to Dominate: The Ultimate Gaming Keyboard Guide

March 12, 2024
By Elaine Loja
9 min read

Elevate your gaming prowess to legendary levels with top-tier gaming keyboards - delivering unparalleled precision, customizable key settings, and swift response times, transforming every click into a strategic move in your virtual battlefield.

Types of Gaming Keyboards

Press Start to Dominate: The Ultimate Gaming Keyboard Guide

Mechanical Keyboards

The keyboards use individual mechanical switches for each key, providing tactile feedback and improved durability. They offer a satisfying typing experience and are popular among gamers.

Membrane Keyboards

Membrane keyboards use a rubber dome or membrane layer beneath the keys. They are quieter and less expensive but lack tactile feedback and durability for mechanical keyboards.

Hybrid Keyboards

Hybrid keyboards combine elements of both mechanical and membrane keyboards. In addition, they often use mechanical switches for gaming-specific keys (e.g., WASD) and membrane switches. This provides a balance between tactile feedback and cost efficiency.

Key Gaming Keyboard Features to Consider

1. Switch Type

The type of switch affects key feel and noise. Mechanical switches are durable and responsive. Membrane switches, quieter and cheaper, offer softer keypresses.

2. Anti-ghosting

Anti-ghosting technology ensures that each keypress is individually registered, even when multiple keys are pressed simultaneously. Crucial for fast-paced gaming where multiple inputs occur.

3. N-Key Rollover

N-Key Rollover allows simultaneous key presses to be registered all at once. It's vital for complex games requiring multiple concurrent inputs.

4. Backlighting

Backlit keys help visibility in low-light conditions. In addition, RGB backlighting, customizable per key, adds personalization and aesthetic appeal to the gaming setup.

5. Programmable Keys

Enables customization by assigning specific functions, macros, or shortcuts to dedicated keys, enhancing gaming efficiency and convenience.

6. Media Controls

Dedicated media controls allow for easy volume adjustment, track skipping, and pausing without leaving the game. It enhances convenience during gameplay.

7. Ergonomics

Keyboards designed with ergonomics consider comfort, reducing strain during long gaming sessions. Features may include wrist rests, adjustable angles, and key layouts.

8. Wireless vs. Wired

Wireless offers flexibility and tidiness, while wired guarantees low latency. Wired is traditionally preferred for gaming, but wireless tech continues to improve.

9. Price Range

Gaming keyboards vary in price, from budget-friendly to high-end. Price typically reflects features, build quality, and brand reputation. So define a budget before shopping.

How to Choose a Gaming Keyboard

Deciding Based on Your Gaming Style (MMO, FPS, RTS, Etc.)

When choosing a gaming keyboard, consider your gaming styles, such as MMO, FPS, or RTS, and look for features like programmable keys, macro support, and specialized layouts tailored to your preferred genre.

The Importance of Comfort and Ergonomics

Comfort and ergonomics are crucial for long gaming sessions. Look for keyboards with wrist rests, adjustable height, and keycaps that provide a comfortable typing experience to avoid strain and fatigue.

Budget Considerations

Budget is an important factor to consider. Determine your spending limit and look for gaming keyboards that offer the best value for your money, considering the features and performance you need.

Brand Reputation and Warranty Options

Brand reputation matters when choosing a gaming keyboard. Opt for well-known brands with a positive reputation for producing reliable, high-quality products. Additionally, check the warranty options to ensure you are covered for defects or issues.

Top Picks for Gaming Keyboards in 2023

Top Budget-Friendly Gaming Keyboards

HyperX Alloy FPS Pro: Best for FPS Gamers

The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro is a budget-friendly gaming keyboard perfect for FPS gamers. It features a compact design without a number pad, allowing more space to move your mouse. The keyboard uses reliable Cherry MX switches, providing tactile feedback and excellent responsiveness.

In addition, it has a sturdy steel frame that ensures durability and longevity. The red LED backlighting adds a stylish touch to the keyboard and offers multiple lighting effects and brightness levels.

With its solid build quality, responsive keys, and gamer-focused features, the HyperX Alloy FPS Pro is an excellent choice for budget-conscious FPS gamers.

Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard: Best Compact Design

The Redragon K552, Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, offers a compact design without compromising performance. It features durable mechanical switches that provide satisfying tactile feedback and excellent responsiveness for gaming.

The keyboard has a solid metal and ABS construction, ensuring durability and longevity. Its compact layout saves space on your desk and allows for more comfortable mouse movement. The red LED backlighting is adjustable and adds a stylish touch to the keyboard.

Despite its budget-friendly price, the Redragon K552 delivers reliable performance and a comfortable typing experience, making it a top choice for gamers looking for a compact and affordable gaming keyboard.

Top Mid-Range Gaming Keyboards

SteelSeries Apex Pro: Best Customizable Keyboard

The SteelSeries Apex Pro is a mid-range gaming keyboard that offers extensive customization options for gamers. It features SteelSeries' proprietary OmniPoint switches, which provide ultra-fast and precise key presses with adjustable actuation points.

The keyboard has a sleek and sturdy aluminum frame that ensures durability. It also offers per-key RGB lighting customization, allowing you to create stunning lighting effects to match your gaming setup. In addition, the Apex Pro includes a customizable OLED Smart Display that can show in-game stats, Discord messages, and more.

With its advanced customization features and high-performance switches, the SteelSeries Apex Pro is an excellent choice for gamers seeking a personalized gaming experience.

Corsair K70 RGB MK.2: Best for Comfort and Aesthetics

The Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 is a mid-range gaming keyboard that excels in comfort and aesthetics. It features Cherry MX switches in various options, including tactile, linear, and clicky, catering to different user preferences. The keyboard has a durable aluminum frame that provides stability and long-lasting performance.

It offers per-key RGB backlighting customization with vibrant colors and effects. The detachable wrist rest adds ergonomic support during long gaming sessions. The K70 MK.2 also includes dedicated media controls and a USB passthrough for convenience.

With its combination of comfort, aesthetics, and functionality, the Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 is a top pick for mid-range gaming keyboards.

Top High-End Gaming Keyboards

Razer Huntsman Elite: Best for Speed and Performance

The Razer Huntsman Elite is a high-end gaming keyboard with exceptional speed and performance. It features Razer's optomechanical switches, which use light-based actuation for ultra-fast response times. The optomechanical switches also offer satisfying tactile feedback.

The keyboard has a sturdy aluminum frame with a detachable wrist rest for added comfort. It includes a customizable RGB lighting system with underflow effects, creating an immersive gaming experience.

In addition, the Huntsman Elite features dedicated media keys and a multifunction digital dial for convenient control. The Razer Huntsman Elite is a top choice for high-end gaming keyboards with its cutting-edge optomechanical switches and premium features.

Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed: Best Wireless Option

The Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed is a high-end wireless gaming keyboard with exceptional performance and versatility. It utilizes Logitech's Lightspeed wireless technology, providing a lag-free and reliable connection for uninterrupted gameplay.

The keyboard features low-profile mechanical switches with a fast and precise typing experience. It has a slim and sleek design with an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame for durability. In addition, the G915 TKL offers customizable RGB lighting with various effects and colors.

With its wireless convenience, premium build quality, and impressive features, the Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed is a top choice for high-end wireless gaming keyboards.

Special Mention: Best Wireless Gaming Keyboards

Keychron K6: Best for Multi-Device Use

The Keychron K6 is a special mention in the category of wireless gaming keyboards due to its versatility and multi-device connectivity. It is a compact 65% keyboard that supports wired and wireless operation.

The K6 features hot-swappable switches, allowing you to customize and replace switches without soldering easily. It has a wireless Bluetooth connection supports up to three devices simultaneously, making it ideal for switching between gaming setups or devices.

In addition, the keyboard offers RGB backlighting and long-lasting battery life. With its multi-device functionality and compact design, the Keychron K6 is a top choice for gamers seeking wireless flexibility.

Corsair K63 Wireless: Best for Gaming on the Couch

The Corsair K63 Wireless is another special mention in wireless gaming keyboards, specifically designed for gamers who prefer couch gaming or playing from a distance. It utilizes a wireless connection with ultra-fast 1ms response time and a strong signal range of up to 33 feet.

The K63 features Cherry MX switches for a tactile and precise gaming experience. It has a compact, tenkeyless design with a detachable wrist rest for comfort. The keyboard offers per-key blue LED backlighting and a rechargeable battery for up to 15 hours of uninterrupted gameplay.

With its wireless convenience and couch gaming-oriented features, the Corsair K63 Wireless is an excellent choice for gaming enthusiasts.

Special Mention: Best RGB Gaming Keyboards

ASUS ROG Strix Scope RGB: Best for Advanced Lighting Effects

The ASUS ROG Strix Scope RGB is a special mention in the category of RGB gaming keyboards due to its advanced lighting effects and customization options. It features ASUS Aura Sync RGB lighting technology, allowing for a stunning array of colors and effects that can be synchronized with other Aura Sync-enabled devices.

The keyboard has a durable aluminum frame and offers a choice of Cherry MX switches for responsive and accurate keystrokes. In addition, the Strix Scope RGB has dedicated media keys and a stealth key for instant privacy.

With its impressive RGB lighting capabilities and robust performance, the ASUS ROG Strix Scope RGB is an ideal choice for gamers seeking an immersive lighting experience.

Ducky One 2 Mini RGB: Best Compact RGB Keyboard

The Ducky One 2 Mini RGB is a special mention in the category of RGB gaming keyboards, specifically known for its compact design and vibrant lighting effects. It is a 60% keyboard with a minimalistic layout without sacrificing functionality.

The keyboard features customizable RGB lighting with various lighting modes and effects. In addition, it has a sturdy build quality with double-shot PBT keycaps, ensuring durability and longevity.

The Ducky One 2 Mini RGB includes dedicated media keys and a detachable USB-C cable. With its compact form factor and stunning RGB lighting, the Ducky One 2 Mini RGB is a top choice for gamers who prioritize aesthetics and performance.

Expert Advice on Using Gaming Keyboards

Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining Your Gaming Keyboard

To clean and maintain your gaming keyboard, use compressed air to remove dust, wipe keys with a damp cloth, and clean sticky keys with isopropyl alcohol. Avoid eating or drinking near the keyboard.

How to Effectively Use Macro Keys for Gaming

Use macro keys for gaming and assign commonly used actions or combos to them. Then, use the software provided by the keyboard manufacturer to program macros and create custom profiles for different games.

Keyboard Mapping for Enhanced Gaming Performance

Keyboard mapping can enhance gaming performance by assigning game-specific commands to easily accessible keys. Remap keys for quick movement, weapon switching, and essential actions to reduce response time and improve gameplay.

Understanding Keyboard Response Times and Actuation Points is Crucial.

Look for keyboards with low input latency and high polling rates for faster response. Actuation points determine when a key registers a press, so choose a keyboard with a comfortable and suitable actuation point for your gaming style.

Gaming Keyboards and Esports: A Look Into Professional Gaming

How Pro Gamers Choose Their Keyboards

Pro gamers choose their keyboards based on mechanical switches, key customization, durability, and responsiveness to ensure optimal performance and comfort during long gaming sessions.

Impact of Gaming Keyboards on Esports Performance

Gaming keyboards significantly impact esports performance as they offer faster response times, anti-ghosting features, and customizable keys, enhancing precision and accuracy and improving gameplay and a competitive edge.

Popular Gaming Keyboard Models Among Esports Professionals

Popular gaming keyboard models among esports professionals include the Razer BlackWidow, Logitech G Pro, Corsair K70, SteelSeries Apex Pro, and HyperX Alloy FPS. These keyboards are known for their reliable performance, durable build quality, and gamer-friendly features.

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