The best gaming keyboards come packed full of features that can turn the tide of your gaming experience. Whether you’re looking for something smaller like a tenkeyless keyboard, want to do away with cables with a wireless keyboard, or need a high-end mechanical keyboard that’s perfect for typing and gaming, there’s something for everyone.
TL;DR – These are the Best Gaming Keyboards:
A gaming keyboard should feature everything you want. Some come with additional programmable keys; especially useful for those who play RPGs to make it easier to cast spells or perform multiple actions. Others are packed to the brim with RGB lighting, whereas some are more budget-friendly but still give you everything you need to bump up your K/D ratio – click here to see them in the UK.
Best Gaming Keyboards
1. Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro
Best Gaming Keyboard
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro
18
This wired mechanical keyboard comes with media controls, macro buttons, and a handy dial on top of all the traditional keys, and everything can be programmed to your gaming preferences.
Key switch options
Razer Green Mechanical, Razer Yellow Mechanical
Features
RGB lighting, 5 onboard profiles, dedicated media buttons, 8 macro buttons, detachable wrist rest, doubleshot ABS keycaps
Eight dedicated macro controls
Speedy 8,000Hz polling rate
The BlackWidow V4 Pro improves upon the V3 Pro’s greatness. This wired mechanical keyboard is slightly larger than most full-size keyboards, leaving room for a volume roller, four media keys, eight dedicated macro controls, and a handy “Razer Command Dial” with eight default modes and 100 custom modes. All the keys are also programmable, so you can customize settings to your gaming preferences and save up to five profiles onboard.
When purchasing the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro, you get to choose either tactile green or linear yellow switches, ensuring responsive gameplay, and the 8,000Hz polling rate can give you that extra bit of speed to edge out opponents. The full-height, doubleshot ABS keycaps that cover those switches are attractive and feel great, though PBT would’ve been nice to combat inevitable wear. And Razer didn’t forget about comfort as you frantically hit keys by including two incline settings and well-padded wrist rest.
2. SteelSeries Apex 5
Best Budget Gaming Keyboard
SteelSeries Apex 5
51
An affordable wired keyboard with hybrid switches, dedicated media controls, and per-key RGB lighting, all housed in an aluminum frame
Key switch options
SteelSeries Hybrid Mechanical (Tactile)
Size
17.43″ x 5.48″ x 1.59″
OLED screen displays game info and messages
Not a fully mechanical keyboard
Sure, you can get cheaper keyboards than the SteelSeries Apex 5, and you can even get cheaper mechanical ones, but the quality compared to price make it the best budget option. SteelSeries uses hybrid switches in this design, which offer a similar tactile feel to mechanical switches and the smoothness of membrane switches while saving on the cost. Those keys are housed in a sturdy aluminum frame built to last.
By keeping the price of the switches low, SteelSeries manages to offer some great value everywhere else. You get a magnetic wrist rest, full RGB lighting that you can customize on a per-key basis, an OLED screen to display game info and messages, and dedicated media controls. You won’t find many other keyboards offering this much for under $100, which is why it’s the best cheap gaming keyboard money can buy.
3. Alienware Pro Wireless Keyboard
Best Compact Keyboard
Alienware Pro Wireless Keyboard
1
Interface
2.4GHz Wireless; Bluetooth
Key switch options
Alienware Linear
Features
Per-key RGB lighting, Aluminum chassis, Quick swap between 2.4GHz and Bluetooth, 1KHz polling rate, Sound damping
Size
1.6 x 12.3 x 5 inches (H x W x D)
Alienware software can be unreliable
Compact 75% keyboards are more popular than ever, thanks to how much room they can save on your desk. And while they generally mean you have to go through life without a numpad, they make for excellent gaming keyboards, especially if you like to take your keyboard with you wherever you go. In fact, that’s why Alienware, when designing this latest generation of its Pro wireless keyboard, consulted with esports professionals to figure out how to design the best gaming keyboard for folks that are constantly traveling to and from gaming events.
What you get is a sturdy, yet portable, gaming keyboard from Alienware that very much looks like its from the future-obsessed tech manufacturer. The Alienware Pro Wireless Keyboard comes in a gorgeous white colorway that’ll fit in wonderfully with the laptops and gaming PCs the company has been putting out over the last couple of years. And thanks to a durable aluminum chassis, you don’t need to worry about your keyboard breaking when you’re on the way to a gaming event.
This gaming keyboard is equipped with Alienware’s own linear switches, that are similar to Cherry MX Reds, so get a really sturdy typing experience with a ‘thocky’ sound profile. A huge improvement over some other Alienware gaming keyboards that sound like you’re clipping your toenails while typing. The switches are rated for 100 million keystrokes, which will definitely take years to reach. But unlike other high-end keyboards in recent years, you won’t be able to swap out the switches if they fail.
Alienware is hoping to get around some of the stigma around wireless gaming keyboards, especially for pro gamers, by using a 2.4GHz connection that’s able to maintain a constant 1KHz polling rate while gaming. Luckily, if you’d rather not trust in the keyboard’s dongle, you can simply connect it via USB-C for a rock-solid connection. The keyboard also supports Bluetooth, and there’s a handy little switch that’ll let you swap between the connection modes, meaning you can connect this gaming keyboard to multiple devices at the same time. If you have multiple devices, particularly if you do a lot of streaming, this means you don’t need to worry about fiddling with multiple keyboards just to get your work done.
The only real downside here is the software. You don’t need to use it, but if you want to customize the lighting and key assignments, you’ll have to download the Alienware Control Center, which can be a bit finnicky sometimes. However, if you’re pairing this keyboard with an Alienware PC, this software will already be installed.
Read the full review: Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard
4. Corsair K70 RGB Pro
Best Wired Gaming Keyboard
Corsair K70 RGB Pro
25
Optical mechanical switches, a polling rate of up to 8,000Hz, and super low latency give you an edge over competitors with this wired keyboard.
Key switch options
OPX Optical-Mechanical
Features
Per-Key RGB, 8MB onboard memory, 50 onboard profiles, dedicated media buttons, detachable wrist rest, PBT keycaps
Size
17.48″ x 6.54″ x 1.57″
Reliable optical-mechanical switches
Durable double-shot PBT keycaps
The Corsair K70 RGB Pro is an updated version of the Corsair K70 RGB MK.2, and it’s ready to take on all of the intense action in your favorite games on your gaming PC. This wired gaming keyboard comes geared up with optical-mechanical switches, ensuring speedier actuation and a longer lifespan than traditional mechanical switches. That means you’ll have a competitive edge, while a polling rate up to 8,000Hz and super low latency let you go even further.
Naturally, the Corsair K70 RGB Pro offers all the other features you’d expect in a quality gaming keyboard, including anti-ghosting and N-Key Rollover for accurate inputs and dedicated media keys to quickly dial in the volume or skip a track. There’s even 8MB of onboard memory, letting you store up to 50 profiles to take your custom keymaps and macros on the go. It doesn’t miss out of style points either, thanks to per-key RGB lighting that shines through the reliable double-shot PBT keycaps
5. Roccat Vulcan II
Best Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Roccat Vulcan II
7
RGB lighting shines in this stunning mechanical keyboard featuring custom macros, button duplicator technology, and full N-key rollover.
Key switch options
Roccat Titan II Red Linear
Features
RGB, four onboard profiles, Easy-Shift+, dedicated media buttons, detachable palm rest
Size
18.23″ x 9.29″ x 1.32″
Button duplicator technology
Roccat’s Vulcan II is a standout in both looks and functionality. You get Titan II Red linear switches for long-lasting durability, a smooth feel, and minimal resistance. There’s full N-key rollover. Plus, the keys are remappable, so you can make custom bindings and macros, storing up to four profiles on board. A button duplicator technology called Easy-Shift+ makes it simple to swap key functions, while dedicated media controls come in handy.
Rather than having keycaps cover up the key switches, the Vulcan II only has caps over the top of the key, leaving the rest exposed. Therefore, the keys look like they’re just floating above clear switch housings full of RGB lighting, like some sort of cyber-age typewriter. In fact, this keyboard offers almost all the features of its more expensive sibling, the Roccat Vulcan II Max, only you lose the higher-end optical-mechanical switches, the 24 RGB smart keys, and not much else. If you’re after a smaller option, be sure to check out the Roccat Vulcan II Mini Air.
6. Razer Ornata V3
Best Membrane-Mechanical Hybrid Gaming Keyboard
Razer Ornata V3
13
Get fully programmable keys with membrane-mechanical switches for a tactile feel that also help to keep this keyboard affordable.
Key switch options
Razer Hybrid Mecha-Membrane
Features
Fully programmable keys, dedicated media controls, magnetic wrist rest
Size
17.46″ x 5.68″ x 1.23″
Accurate and smooth keystrokes
Low profile keys for better ergonomics
Budget membrane-mechanical hybrid switches
You scored a great gaming PC deal, and now you’re looking for a quality budget-friendly keyboard. The Razer Ornata V3 is that thanks to its membrane-mechanical hybrid switches that help keep the costs low while still providing a tactile, pleasant user experience. That switch combo offers the feel of a mechanical keyboard with its snappy feedback while each keystroke remains accurate and smooth, like your average keyboard.
Beyond those hybrid switches, you’ll find the Razer Ornata V3 makes some changes to its predecessor, the Ornata V2, by offering slightly lower-profile keys for a more ergonomic typing experience that may also help with quicker actuation. All the keys are also fully programable with durable fade-resistant caps, and dedicated media controls are on board which is surprisingly handy once you get used to it. Plus, it’s a Razer keyboard, so there’s no shortage of RGB LEDs to make it shine.
7. Higround Basecamp 65
Best Tenkeyless Gaming Keyboard
Higround Basecamp 65
1
Unique-looking keyboard with a 65% layout, buttery-smooth, hot-swappable switches, and durable build.
Key switch options
White Flame Linear
Features
RGB lighting, programmable macros, arrow keys
Size
13.89″ x 6.02″ x 1.85″
Buttery-smooth, hot-swappable switches
Save on gaming desk space by grabbing one of the best tenkeyless gaming keyboards, the Higround Basecamp 65. This unique option features a 65% layout, hence the name, forgoing num pad and F-keys. However, you still get number keys along the top row and even dedicated arrow keys, which reside in a durable aluminum or polycarbonate plate featuring dual silicone to help with acoustics and add weight to the board. As for the design, there is a variety to choose from, so whether you’re a fan of Naruto or Yu-Gi-Oh! or you’re after something a little more universal, Higround has a keyboard for you. And don’t worry; every option allows the customizable RGB lights to shine through.
You can’t deny how great the Higround Basecamp 65 looks, but does it actually perform well? Luckily, yes. The linear switches come pre-lubed for buttery-smooth typing and are hot-swappable if you’re after a different feel. The tools for swapping are even included in the box. Its 1,000Hz polling rate is plenty responsive for most gamers, though the software for programming keys could be a little more user-friendly. But overall, this keyboard offers tremendous value.
8. Razer Huntsman V2
Best Optical Gaming Keyboard
Razer Huntsman V2
10
Go for speed with optical switches and an up to 8,000Hz polling rate on a wired keyboard full of RGB lighting and five onboard memory profiles.
Key switch options
Razer Liner Optical switch
Features
8,000Hz polling rate, Per-key RGB lighting, plush wrist rest, media controls
Slight rattle under each key
So, you’re looking for a gaming keyboard to pair with your gaming mouse because you want to go fast and get a competitive edge? Mechanical keyboards are a strong start, but the Razer Huntsman V2 lets you go even further with optical switches and an 8,000Hz polling rate. By using optical key switches, Razer avoids one of the main things slowing traditional mechanical keyboards down: debounce. Debounce can add a few milliseconds of delay to a mechanical switch registering an input, and in competitive games, every millisecond counts. Instead, the Huntsman offers two optical switch options; clicky for a snappy response and satisfying sound or linear for a quieter and smoother typing experience.
Of course, beyond being the best optical gaming keyboard. It offers up a solid design that looks dazzling on your desk with custom RGB lighting options for each key. You’ll find a comfortable plush wrist rest on deck as well, though it attaches with magnets, so you can easily add or remove it as you please. There’s even enough onboard memory to store up to five profiles, and you’ll be able to make quick adjustments to your audio with dedicated media controls.
9. Corsair K70 Max RGB
Best High-End Gaming Keyboard
Corsair K70 Max RGB
2
Gain an advantage over the competition thanks to responsive magnetic linear switches that let you adjust the actuation and reset point of the keys.
Key switch options
Corsair MGX
Features
8,000Hz polling rate, dedicated media controls, RGB lighting, 8MB storage, detachable wrist rest, magnetic switches
Adjustable actuation and reset point of each key
Durable double-shot PBT keycaps
A PC controller can only go so far, so you might want a gaming keyboard full of high-end features, like the Corsair K70 Max RGB. This keyboard takes all the great from past K70 keyboards and improves upon them. To start, you get magnetic linear switches, and you can adjust the actuation and reset point of every key, giving you a massive advantage over the competition. Corsair’s iCue software makes those adjustments simple, and it’s possible to save up to 50 profiles and 20 lighting layers on board thanks to 8MB of storage.
The Corsair K70 Max RGB covers up those impressive linear switches with durable double-shot PBT keycaps that still let all the flashy RGB lighting shine through. Also on board are dedicated media controls and a unique “Tournament Mode” toggle limiting RGB lighting and disabling macros. Corsair didn’t forget about sound with two layers of silicone sound-dampening foam to help prevent the common clanging on aluminum boards.
10. Wooting Two HE
Best Analog Gaming Keyboard
Wooting Two HE
0
The Wooting Two HE is an analog gaming keyboard that marries excellent technology with a gamer aesthetic.
Key switch options
Gateron x Lekker linear
Features
Onboard memory, RGB lighting, Dynamic Keystroke, adjustable actuation point, Tachyon mode for lower latency
Ability to boost responsiveness
Ask any true keyboard afficionado and they’ll tell you the best keyboards are analog keyboards. Every single key on the Wooting Two HE is analog, similar to the buttons on your Xbox controller. That means you can configure exactly how far down they have to be pressed in order to activate. This is awesome if you have a tendency to “fat finger” keys while typing or if you want some of your keys to be more sensitive than others. This will also allow some games to read key switches similarly to how they read controller button input, for example pressing a button a bit lighter to walk instead of run.
The Wooting Two HE, just like any other gaming keyboard, also features a per-key RGB lighting effect. But realizing that some comptetive gamers might prefer a lower latency experience than one with colorful lights, there’s a profile you can enable through the Wootility software to boost responsiveness at the cost of lighting. This is a grown-up’s gaming keyboard, and has some of the best key switches you’ve ever used if you’ve spent your life up to now only using big-name gaming keyboards like Razer or SteelSeries.
Where to Get the Best Gaming Keyboard in the UK
Completing your set up with the perfect gaming keyboard could be one of the most important steps. Thankfully, those in the UK have plenty of brilliant keyboards to choose from, as the vast majority included in the article are also available from select retailers.
Corsair K70 RGB MK.2
6
SteelSeries Apex 5
1
Best Budget Gaming Keyboard
Roccat Vulcan 121 Aimo
2
Best Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Razer Ornata V2
1
Best Membrane-Mechanical Hybrid Gaming Keyboard
Roccat Magma
3
Best Membrane Gaming Keyboard
Logitech G915
6
Best Wireless Gaming Keyboard
Corsair K63 Wireless
4
Best Wireless Gaming Tenkeyless Keyboard
Razer Huntsman V2
2
Best Optical Gaming Keyboard
Corsair K100 RGB
3
Best High-End Gaming Keyboard
SteelSeries Apex Pro
3
Most Customizable Gaming Keyboard
Cooler Master MK850
1
How to Choose a Gaming Keyboard
Before you even start looking at gaming keyboards, you should consider what type of key switch you want, after all, you’ll be typing and gaming with this peripheral every day.
When it comes to key switches there are two major types: membrane and mechanical.
Membrane keyboards employ a rubber or silicon dome at the end of every key press to register a keystroke and provide the user with a small amount of tactile feedback. Due to the simplicity of a membrane keyboard, they usually are more affordable than mechanical keyboards, so they’re suitable for users on a budget. On the flip side though, the rubber or silicon used as a membrane will inevitably break down faster than a mechanical switch.
Mechanical key switches are known for delivering a much stronger and more satisfying amount of feedback. Unlike membrane switches, this type involves many more components including a stem, spring, and metal contact leaves, the last of which is what actually registers a keystroke.
There’s a wide variety of mechanical key switches to choose from, so we’ll start by looking at the most common ones available, Cherry MX.
- Cherry MX Red: Linear action that delivers fast actuation with very little tactile feedback.
- Cherry MX Black: Cherry’s other linear switch that offers a bit more resistance.
- Cherry MX Silver: Otherwise known as Cherry MX Speed, this type of key switch offers linear action with a shorter actuation height and lower resistance than a Cherry MX Red.
- Cherry MX Brown: This type of switch actuates with a tactile bump for a noticeable amount of force feedback.
- Cherry MX Blue: Actuates with an even greater amount of tactile feedback and an audible click.
At this point though almost every major gaming hardware maker has moved on to developing its own key switches including Razer, Logitech, SteelSeries, Cooler Master, and Roccat. All these companies have developed their own keyboard switches designed specifically for gaming. They all have varying actuation force and points as well as a distinct travel distance. For the most part, all of these unique key switches all act like variations of Cherry MX switches usually with shorter debounce rates that make them feel faster.
Another thing to consider about gaming keyboards is the height of your keycaps. For the most part, keyboards use full-sized or regular height keycaps, which sort of require you to curl your fingers over to reach the top of the keys. Mid-height keycaps give you a slightly more relaxed typing experience. Lastly, low-profile keycaps are perfect for users who prefer to have their fingers hovering over their keys like they would on a gaming laptop.
Gaming Keyboard FAQ
Should I get a gaming keyboard and mouse or a PC controller?
The biggest—and most obvious—difference between the best PC controllers and gaming keyboards is the physical design of the two peripherals. A great controller rests in your hands, putting all the inputs in an easy-to-reach location, making it ergonomic and simple to use. Its buttons and triggers are also often remappable. A keyboard and gaming mouse combo is larger and more spread out, requiring you to use a gaming desk or lapdesk when playing. However, you get an excess of possible inputs at your fingertips, and oftentimes, many keys are customizable.
Where a keyboard and mouse pairing often pulls ahead of controllers is in precision and responsiveness, so most will turn to this trusty combo when playing competitive FPS. But the analog sticks on a gamepad deliver smoother control over certian movements, which is a boon in racing games. Modern controllers even offer haptic feedback for a more immersive gaming experience.
Still, whichever input device you choose, it’s more a matter of personal preference than anything else. While playing the best PC games with a comfortable controller might seem sacrilege to accuracy-focused keyboard and mouse enthusiast, you just need to do you.
Are wireless keyboards good for gaming?
Yes. Even if many of our favorite gaming keyboards are wired, a wireless option can be just as responsive and reliable. Just be sure the wireless keyboard offers a dedicated 2.4GHz wireless dongle for a dedicated link to your PC. That type of connection is far superior to Bluetooth and delivers a similar latency to a wired gaming keyboard. However, with wireless comes the possibility of signal interference, and you’ll need to deal with batteries.
Jackie Thomas is the Hardware and Buying Guides Editor at IGN and the PC components queen. You can follow her @Jackiecobra
