When it comes to gaming keyboards, there are far too many options to choose from. PC gamers know that it’s one of the most important tools in their arsenal, so choosing the right one can be an overwhelming and seemingly impossible task. Paired with a great gaming mouse, the keyboard is how you make your conquest. We’ve done the work for you, so you don’t need to take a risk on a keyboard that might be subpar.
For models that’ll have a little less impact on your wallet, check out our best gaming keyboards under $100. But if you can spend more, you’ll get features such as higher-quality switches and general construction, discrete media keys and controls, a wrist rest and more. And if you don’t know what a membrane keyboard is or the difference between an optical switch and a mechanical switch, the buying advice section at the bottom will help.
Read more: Best Gaming Keyboard Under $100 for 2023
Just like picking out a new gaming mouse, getting the right gaming keyboard has a lot to do with personal preference (and budget). As for the two authors of this list, Josh likes tactile switches — ones where you can feel the actuation point — but doesn’t like clicky key switches that make a sound. Lori likes clicky and tactile because she likes to feel the actuation point and likes the mechanical sound for gaming, but uses a hybrid membrane-mechanical Razer Cynosa v2 at work for the click and the bounciness of its membrane. Long years of stiff-action piano keys and having learned on a manual typewriter have turned her into a pounder.
You might also find some keyboards great for gaming but not like them for day-to-day typing. For example, those same Cherry MX Red switches that are great for gaming might be too light for some typists. Linear switches, like Cherry MX Reds, don’t have the tactile feedback that a Cherry MX Blue has, but because of their low force and smooth actuation they’re preferred for gaming, especially where multiple taps of the same key are necessary. If you have a chance to test out different keyboards to determine your favorite switch type before you buy (such as Cherry MX Brown, Cherry MX Red and others), I highly recommend it. You can check out this glossary of keyboard terms to help narrow your preferences.
So, are you ready to find the best keyboard for your gaming needs? Read on for a closer look at 10 great options.
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