Best Gaming Keyboards

Choosing a gaming keyboard will become easier and more convenient after reading our review. Five minutes and you’ll know which gaming keyboard suits you best.

If you don’t exclusively use the controller for gaming, you will hardly get around a gaming keyboard. But what makes a good keyboard?

We present several models from different price ranges and explain what is important when buying.

The best gaming keyboards: Editor’s Choice

There is hardly anything that gaming keyboards cannot do: This ranges from elaborate RGB lighting and additional displays to special switches whose trigger point can be individually calibrated via software. In addition to classic rubber dome keyboards, more and more models with mechanical switches of various kinds are coming onto the market.

We explain the differences and also go into important additional features of gaming keyboards so that you are guaranteed to make the right choice.

In order to give you the best possible overview, we have relied on our own experiences as well as user ratings and external test institutions.

Top 5 Gaming Keyboards in 2024

Razer BlackWidow V3

The Razer BlackWidow V3 is a true all-rounder in terms of gaming keyboards. For one, the model features Razer’s in-house Green Switch, which is probably the closest thing to Cherry Blue. Thus, every keystroke is characterized by a clearly audible clack. Many would not want to miss such an acoustic feedback, while others prefer the quietest possible switches. Fortunately, the identical model also exists with other switch types.

Another plus point of the keyboard are the keycaps, which are made of so-called “Doubleshot-ABS”, a particularly durable plastic compound. A multifunctional scroll wheel and a media key are also found on the keyboard. This can be used to control the volume or brightness of the RGB effects. Less pleasing, however, is the fact that the secondary functions of numerous keys are unfortunately not illuminated. By the way, there is also a wireless Pro version of the BlackWidow V3.

Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro

The Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro primarily attracts attention with its flat keys and the already very compact design. A numeric keypad was deliberately omitted, so that there is more room to move around on your desk. It is also a model with optical switches, which are supposed to withstand up to 100 million keystrokes according to the manufacturer. On top of that, the switches work even more precisely than conventional mechanical switches, since signals are detected via a light barrier.

I was able to put the keyboard through its paces and have to say first: The Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro impressed me across the board. This starts with the workmanship, which makes an extremely high-quality and stable impression due to the use of brushed aluminum. The precise volume control is equally well done. Furthermore, I really liked the optical titanium switches. On the one hand because of the pleasant feedback when typing itself and on the other hand because of the absolutely delay-free input. The software works just as flawlessly and offers numerous options for individual customization. The only points of criticism would be the lack of illumination of the secondary functions of some keys as well as the omission of dedicated media keys.

Roccat Magma

The Roccat Magma is our price tip. For around $60 you really get a lot of keyboard for relatively little money. This includes a removable palm rest, extremely tactile rubber dome switches as well as an extraordinary RGB illumination, which is second to none. The aforementioned switches cannot keep up with the precision of their mechanical counterparts, but they do not feel spongy at all. The typing feel is probably best compared to Cherry MX Browns, although the release point is a bit further back and thus requires more force.

What I found a bit unfortunate was the omission of an FN Lock button, especially since there are already models from the manufacturer that have this feature. So instead of just one button, you always have to press both buttons to control your media. Overall, the Roccat Magma is still a solid keyboard that is especially suitable for gaming beginners on a tight budget. The coherent lighting and included palm rest are also a great bonus. Although the durability of a rubber dome keyboard cannot usually keep up with that of mechanical models, it is much quieter.

Logitech G915 Lightspeed

The Logitech G915 Lightspeed has managed something that hardly any other keyboard before it has: It has mechanical switches, RGB lighting and works completely wirelessly. For many, this is probably a gamer’s dream come true. However, this has its price, because the keyboard is anything but cheap at around $240. In return, you get a high-quality keyboard with additional media and macro keys. You also have the choice between different versions with clicky, tactile or linear switches.

Unfortunately, smaller flaws are noticed all the faster with such a high price. During the test period, I noticed that not all key functions are illuminated accordingly. This could quickly lead to frustration especially in poor lighting conditions. Furthermore, the volume control does not have any haptic feedback, which unnecessarily complicates operation.

The next point of complaint is the micro-USB port – Logitech could really start adapting the new standard in the form of USB Type-C, in my opinion. Those who are only partially bothered by these points and the limited battery life of about 30 hours with the backlight active can still grab this one. According to the software, the keyboard should last for more than 200 hours with the backlight off, which should be enough for several weeks depending on the usage behavior. For fans of compact keyboards, there is also the Logitech G915 Lightspeed TKL, which does without a number pad and macro keys.

Steelseries Apex Pro

With the Steelseries Apex Pro, we have finally arrived in the royal class of keyboards. On the one hand, this is due to the enormous range of functions and, at the same time, the proud price of around $240. The highlights are clearly the integrated OLED smart display as well as the OmniPoint switches, whose trigger point can be individually configured via software. Not without reason, it was able to convince in almost every respect in our test.

Complaining on a high level: Not all keys are equipped with the advertised OmniPoint switches. Considering the price, this is an enormous pity. Furthermore, the USB cable cannot be removed, which is not a disaster, but would have been a nice bonus. If you prefer the format without the numeric keypad, there is also the more compact Steelseries Apex Pro TKL.

Why it’s worth buying a gaming keyboard

First of all, you have to ask yourself how exactly you want to use the keyboard. Do you want to use it for typing as well as gaming? Do you only play occasionally? Or do you expect absolute precision when gaming? To make the decision a bit easier, we’ll present some possible scenarios:

• As a casual gamer, you can usually get by with a correspondingly inexpensive model that has the necessary basic functions. A membrane keyboard with rubber dome switches would probably be the best option here.
• If you regularly gamble or type a lot, you should take a look at mechanical keyboards. On the one hand, they have the advantage that they are much more durable and on the other hand, the inputs are much more precise. By the way, the typing feel is hardly comparable with a conventional membrane keyboard. There are a lot of different switches available, which should ideally be tested in your trusted electronics store before buying.
• You want to get the absolute maximum precision out of your keyboard in hectic shooters or action games? Gaming keyboards with optical switches have turned out to be the favorite. The actual switches are still mechanical, but the signals are detected by a light barrier or a magnetic field. The relatively new technology is much more precise than regular mechanical switches, which is also directly reflected in the price. A powerful mouse should also not be missing.

Buying a gaming keyboard: You should know that beforehand

Rubberdome vs. mechanical keyboards

So-called rubber dome switches are usually used, especially in cheaper models. Here, a rubber dome is found underneath the actual key, which is pressed together when the key is released – hence the name. As a result, two foils come into contact when typing, which in turn close an electric circuit and ultimately register the keystroke. The biggest disadvantage of such switches is the spongy typing feel caused by the construction and the relatively high input delay.

In contrast to mechanical representatives, they are much quieter, which could be a decisive purchase criterion for many. Keyboards with mechanical switches, on the other hand, have a much longer lifespan. In addition, the feedback of the keystrokes is much more precise and inputs are also registered more reliably. The disadvantages, however, include the increased volume and the higher costs.

Optical switches

A new technology is increasingly gaining acceptance, in which signal transmission is no longer achieved through a metal contact, but through optical signal detection. This is done either by a light barrier or by a magnetic field. One of the advantages of this is that it reduces wear on the switches. Inputs are also recorded more precisely. In some cases, it is also possible to change the trigger point of the keys as desired via software.

The typical typing feel doesn’t change, but the improved durability and the possibility of individual adjustments sound promising. However, keyboards with this switch technology are currently still much more expensive than conventional models. This should therefore be taken into account before buying.

Differences in Cherry switches

In addition to keyboards, Cherry is primarily known for its industry-leading switches. The best-known designs include brown, red and blue Cherry switches. The main differences lie on the one hand in the necessary actuation force, which is specified in zentinewtons (cN). On the other hand, the switches have different triggering distances, which are specified in millimeters.

Tactile, linear or clicky?

As far as mechanical switches are concerned, there is now a wide range of switches available: Besides the popular Cherry switches, there are also specially developed versions from well-known manufacturers like Razer, Logitech, Roccat or Steelseries. In addition, mechanical switches are constantly improved to reduce their input lag to a minimum. Meanwhile, there are also optical switches or those whose trigger point can be individually calibrated via software. Regardless of the manufacturer of the respective switch, in almost every case it can be characterized by one of the following three properties:

• Tactile: You feel a slight resistance when actuating it. This reduces the risk of incorrect inputs and at the same time enables precise strokes. Therefore, the switch shines especially in shooters.
• Linear: Due to the fluid keystroke, the switch is particularly well suited for quick successive inputs. This can be especially useful in MOBAs or action games.
• Clicky: Offers clearly audible and noticeable feedback and is also one of the loudest switches. Is especially preferred by frequent typists who do not want to do without the unmistakable clicking noise when typing.

What else should a gaming keyboard be able to do?

Software

As is often the case, hardware is only as good as the accompanying software. Depending on the keyboard model, you can use it to record macros, change key assignments or adjust the RGB lighting to your liking. You can also create several profiles that are automatically activated when you start the respective game. Since almost all the big names in the industry have the full arsenal of gaming peripherals in their lineup, the software usually works across devices as well. So it can be quite advantageous to commit to one brand before buying so that you don’t have to download separate software for each device.

Media or macro keys

We have already mentioned macros. This refers to recordings of any key sequences, which can then be triggered automatically with just a single keystroke. Some gaming keyboards have additional keys for this, which you can then assign as you like. Often, the regular keys can also be provided with alternative commands. Especially for streamers or fans of role-playing games, additional keys can definitely pay off. Alternatively, you can also use an external solution, such as the Elgato StreamDeck with 15 freely programmable LCD keys.

Besides macro keys, dedicated media keys can also be an advantage. If you like to listen to music on the computer, you’ll certainly appreciate being able to pause the music or start the next song with just the push of a button. Being able to adjust the volume without having to fumble around in the Windows settings is also a bonus not to be sneezed at. Once you get used to such conveniences, you might not want to do without them afterwards.

N-Key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting

N-Key Rollover (NKRO) describes the ability of a keyboard to theoretically press an unlimited number of keys simultaneously without losing any input. Nowadays, almost every decent gaming keyboard has a correspondingly high NKRO, so that unregistered keystrokes are hardly a problem anymore. Anti-ghosting, on the other hand, describes the opposite effect: Here, it’s about avoiding unwanted inputs as soon as a certain combination of keys is pressed simultaneously. This is also a ghost of the past. Especially with mechanical keyboards, the effect hardly ever occurs because each key is on its own switch.