Choosing the right gaming keyboard involves more than just picking the best gaming mouse or headset; it's deeply rooted in personal preferences. Key aspects like the keyboard's layout, whether it's tenkeyless or full-sized, the type of mechanical switches, and additional features all play a significant role in your decision. These elements can greatly influence how a keyboard performs, making it crucial to understand what each keyboard offers before you invest, especially considering the potential expense.

With extensive experience testing various keyboards, including the latest models, my recommendations are based on firsthand use. I delve into how each keyboard's switches perform in competitive gaming and how they feel during extended typing sessions. Unique features like Razer's Command Dial or SteelSeries' OLED control panel enhance functionality, but they often require specific software, adding another layer to consider for those seeking a highly customizable keyboard. Even the choice of keycaps can impact performance, highlighting the many nuances that make gaming keyboards unique.

TL;DR: These Are the Best Gaming Keyboards:

Best Overall### SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)

17See it at Amazon### Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro

6See it at Amazon### Redragon K582 Surara

3See it at Amazon### Cherry MX LP 2.1

3See it at Amazon### Logitech G Pro X TKL

4See it at Amazon### Keychron K4

1See it at Amazon### Corsair K100 RGB

2See it at Amazon### Logitech G515 TKL

1See it at Amazon### Pulsar Xboard QS

1See it at Amazon### Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%

2See it at AmazonThe variety of keyboard styles allows me to categorize my recommendations, showcasing a range of options from different manufacturers. While the SteelSeries Apex Pro is a standout, each keyboard on this list excels in different areas, tailored to various needs and preferences. For instance, the Cherry MX LP 2.1 is my top choice for the best compact 60% keyboard due to its low-profile keys and lightweight design. The Logitech G515 TKL is ideal for those seeking a low-profile keyboard without sacrificing functionality, and the Redragon K582 Surara offers impressive quality on a budget. The intricacies of these keyboards fascinate me, and I've detailed my top picks to help you make an informed decision.

SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (Gen 3) - Photos

11 Images1. SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)

Best Overall Gaming Keyboard

Best Overall### SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)

17The SteelSeries Apex Pro stands out as the ideal gaming keyboard, featuring Hall Effect switches, an OLED control panel, and solid construction. Its sleek design is enhanced by tasteful RGB lighting and a bold font on the keycaps. The Hall Effect switches offer customizable actuation points, allowing you to fine-tune your keyboard for different scenarios, from competitive gaming to everyday typing. Features like Rapid Tap and Rapid Trigger can enhance performance, though their utility depends on your game of choice. The OLED panel provides convenient control over media, lighting, and more, making the Apex Pro a versatile choice with manageable battery life.

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro – Photos

25 Images2. Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro

Best High-End Gaming Keyboard

### Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro

6The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro is Razer's flagship keyboard, offering superior mechanical switches, macro keys, and the customizable Command Dial. Its full-sized layout includes media controls and a programmable dial, all customizable through the Synapse software. Razer's proprietary switches, including tactile Oranges, clicky Greens, and linear Yellows, deliver quick, clean keystrokes with a high polling rate of up to 8000Hz, setting it apart in performance.

3. Redragon K582 Surara

Best Budget Gaming Keyboard

### Redragon K582 Surara

3The Redragon K582 Surara showcases how far budget-friendly keyboards have come. It offers impressive performance and build quality at a fraction of the cost of premium models. Despite its somewhat flashy design, the "professional" Red switches perform smoothly and consistently, making it a solid choice for those looking to save money without sacrificing quality.

4. Cherry MX LP 2.1

Best Compact (60%) Gaming Keyboard

### Cherry MX LP 2.1

3The Cherry MX LP 2.1 is a top choice for a compact 60% keyboard, thanks to its lightweight and low-profile design. Its Cherry MX Speed mechanical switches provide a short actuation point and a smooth linear feel. Despite its compact size, it held up well during extended use, making it a versatile option for both gaming and productivity.

5. Logitech G Pro X TKL

Best Tenkeyless (75%) Gaming Keyboard

### Logitech G Pro X TKL

4The Logitech G Pro X TKL combines a sleek design with fantastic mechanical switches, making it an excellent choice for a tenkeyless keyboard. Its brushed aluminum top and exposed keycap design allow for tasteful RGB lighting, while on-board features like a volume wheel and media controls enhance usability. The keyboard's proprietary linear switches deliver satisfying and consistent keystrokes, making it a top performer in its category.

6. Keychron K4

Best 96% Layout Gaming Keyboard

### Keychron K4

1The Keychron K4 offers a 96% layout that retains all the functionality of a full-sized keyboard while saving desk space. Its Gateron Red linear switches perform admirably, and its slim frame leaves a minimal footprint. While it may lack some extra features and customization options, its wireless capabilities and minimalist design make it a great choice for those needing a compact full-sized keyboard.

Corsair K100 RGB Review

14 Images7. Corsair K100 RGB

Best Full-Sized Gaming Keyboard

### Corsair K100 RGB

2The Corsair K100 RGB takes full-sized keyboards to the next level with its brushed aluminum plate, macro keys, and various media controls. Its optical switches offer a unique and satisfying feel, while the RGB strips add a touch of extravagance. Although the software can be a bit tricky, the K100 RGB's robust features and high polling rate make it a premium choice.

Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL - Photos

10 Images8. Logitech G515 TKL

Best Low-Profile Gaming Keyboard

### Logitech G515 TKL

1The Logitech G515 TKL combines a slim profile with durable build quality, featuring thin keycaps and Logitech's updated mechanical switches. Its performance rivals that of full-sized keyboards, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a low-profile design. While the top bar could include more controls, the G515 TKL excels in embodying the low-profile gaming keyboard ethos.

Pulsar Xboard QS - Photos

15 Images9. Pulsar Xboard QS

Best Wired Gaming Keyboard

### Pulsar Xboard QS

1The Pulsar Xboard QS impresses with its strong build quality, unique aesthetic, and the Kailh Box Ice Mint 2 switches. Its dual connectivity feature is novel, and its sturdy construction makes it a durable choice. Though pricey for a wired keyboard, its performance and customizability make it a standout for enthusiasts.

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% - Photos

13 Images10. Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%

Best Customizable Gaming Keyboard

### Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%

2The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% stands out for its customization potential, with swappable parts and the updated Command Dial. Its robust build quality and the latest tech in Synapse software make it a top choice for those looking to personalize their gaming experience. Though expensive, its performance and customization options justify the cost.

Gaming Keyboard FAQ

What are the advantages between different mechanical switches?

Choosing the right mechanical switch is crucial for your gaming keyboard experience. Beyond traditional mechanical switches, optical and Hall Effect switches use light and magnets respectively, offering adjustable actuation points. The three main styles are linear, providing smooth keystrokes without feedback; tactile, offering a bump at the actuation point for better input feel; and clicky, which are louder and provide full physical feedback. Key specifications include actuation point, travel distance, and actuation force, which can affect your typing speed and comfort.

Should I go with a TKL, compact, or full-sized keyboard?

The choice between full-sized, TKL, and compact keyboards depends on your needs and desk space. Full-sized keyboards offer all standard keys and additional features, while 96% keyboards save space without losing functionality. TKL keyboards, lacking a number pad, are popular for their smaller footprint and added desk space for your mouse. Compact 60% keyboards are ideal for minimalists but sacrifice some functionality, suitable for those who don't need extensive key sets.

Should I go wired or wireless for a gaming keyboard?

Wireless connectivity is less critical for keyboards than for mice and headsets, but it does offer convenience. Many gaming keyboards come in both wired and wireless versions, with the wired option often being cheaper. Modern wireless technology, such as Logitech's Lightspeed or Razer's HyperSpeed, ensures minimal input latency, making wireless keyboards a viable option for gamers.