Top gaming keyboards in 2023

The Best Gaming Keyboards: Elevate Your Gaming Experience

Are you tired of feeling like your keyboard is holding you back during your gaming sessions? If so, it might be time to upgrade to a gaming keyboard. While any keyboard can technically be used for gaming, self-proclaimed gaming keyboards often offer a higher-quality design, snazzy RGB lighting, and additional features specifically aimed at gamers. In this article, I will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the best gaming keyboards on the market. From compact to analog, wireless to budget-friendly options, I’ve researched and tested a wide range of keyboards to help you find the perfect fit for your gaming needs.

What to Look for in a Gaming Keyboard

Before we dive into the top picks, let’s briefly discuss the key features that you should consider when choosing a gaming keyboard.

Mechanical vs. Non-Mechanical: Mechanical keyboards are generally favored by gamers due to their durability, customization options, and satisfying key presses. While they can be louder, they offer a better overall typing and gaming experience compared to laptop-style membrane keyboards.

Size: Consider the size of the keyboard. While full-size keyboards offer a number pad, a compact layout, such as a tenkeyless (TKL) or smaller, can provide more space for mouse movement and reduce tension on your arms and shoulders.

Switches, Keycaps, and Build Quality: Pay attention to the type of switches used in the keyboard. Linear switches, often branded as “red,” are popular among gamers for their smooth feel and consistent keystrokes. However, if you prefer a more tactile or clicky switch, opt for those instead. Additionally, look for keyboards with sturdy frames, stable keys, and high-quality keycaps that won’t fade or develop a greasy shine over time.

Software, Connectivity, and RGB: If a keyboard comes with companion software, ensure that it allows for easy programming of macros and key bindings. For connectivity, choose a keyboard with a detachable USB-C cable for convenience, and if you prefer a wireless option, opt for one that uses a USB receiver for minimal lag. Finally, consider the RGB lighting options, as customizable lighting can add a touch of fun to your gaming setup.

Now that we have covered the key factors to consider, let’s dive into the top gaming keyboards on the market.

Best Gaming Keyboard Overall: Wooting 60HE

The Wooting 60HE takes the crown as the best gaming keyboard overall. It features analog Lekker switches, which respond to varying levels of pressure, similar to the triggers on a game controller. These switches, equipped with magnetic Hall effect sensors, offer a range of beneficial features. The actuation point of each key can be adjusted between 0.1mm and 4mm, providing exceptional responsiveness for quick movements in fast-paced FPS games or more deliberate actions in turn-based RPGs or for typing. The “rapid trigger” feature allows for mid-press re-actuation, resulting in faster input repetition. Furthermore, up to four actions can be bound to one key based on the pressure applied, providing greater flexibility and reducing finger contortions.

While not every game is designed with analog keyboards in mind, the Wooting 60HE’s precision and versatility can give you a noticeable edge, especially in competitive gaming. Beyond its analog capabilities, the Wooting 60HE offers a high-quality build, double-shot PBT keycaps, and pre-lubed, linear-style switches. The keyboard’s charming Wootility software allows for easy customization, and the per-key backlighting is both tidy and customizable. The only downsides are the plastic case, lack of wrist rest (sold separately), and the 60 percent layout, which may not appeal to everyone.

Runner-Up: Razer Huntsman V2 TKL

If you’re looking for a solid gaming keyboard without all the extra features of the Wooting 60HE, the Razer Huntsman V2 TKL is an excellent choice. Though it doesn’t offer analog input or custom actuation, it provides a reliable and well-built keyboard at a more affordable price. The keyboard’s internal sound-dampening foam creates a muffled tone without any audible pinging. With its linear optical switches, double-shot PBT keycaps, and aluminum-coated case, the Huntsman V2 TKL delivers a satisfying typing experience.

The keyboard offers full macro-programmability, a detachable USB-C cable, and comes with a decent leatherette wrist rest. While Razer’s Synapse software may have mixed reviews, it remains easier to use compared to other gaming software. You can choose between Razer’s linear or clicky switches, with the former being the recommended choice. However, keep in mind that the PCB is not hot-swappable, and some stabilizers might be slightly rattly. Overall, the Huntsman V2 TKL provides great value, especially when you can find it on sale.

A Good Traditional Mechanical Keyboard: Keychron V3

For those who prioritize typing and enjoy occasional gaming, the Keychron V3 is an excellent choice. Priced under $90, this keyboard offers a stable frame, hot-swappable PCB, double-shot PBT keycaps, and smooth stabilizers. With pre-lubed Keychron switches, the V3 delivers a pleasant typing experience without feeling cheap. The spacing and design of the keys make it easier to avoid accidental inputs.

While not focused on ultra-low latency, the Keychron V3 should provide a responsive gaming experience for most users. It offers Windows and macOS compatibility, programmable features through the VIA software, and customization options for backlighting. Although the RGB backlighting is less impressive due to the default non-translucent keycaps, the V3 has a compact design with a removable USB-C cable. On the downside, the keyboard lacks a wrist rest and has a plastic chassis. However, considering its comfort and customization options, the Keychron V3 presents a strong value for both typing and non-competitive gaming.

Best Budget Gaming Keyboard: G.Skill KM250 RGB

If you’re on a tight budget but still want an acceptable gaming keyboard, look no further than the G.Skill KM250 RGB. Priced at just $40, this keyboard offers impressive features such as PBT keycaps, hot-swappable switches, per-key RGB backlighting, and a detachable USB-C cable. The linear Kailh Red switches strike a balance between quick response and noise reduction, ensuring a smooth gaming experience without distracting pinging sounds. The KM250’s 65 percent layout is compact yet still includes arrow keys.

While the KM250 may lack some premium features found in more expensive keyboards, it provides exceptional value for its price. The plastic frame is sturdy, and the keycaps, although not as textured as higher-end options, still offer a satisfactory typing feel. Additionally, the keyboard’s affordability allows for future upgrades if desired.

Best Wireless Gaming Keyboard: SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless

For gamers seeking a wireless keyboard or on-the-go portability, the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless is an excellent choice. Equipped with linear-style switches featuring magnetic Hall effect sensors, this keyboard allows for a range of practical gaming features. With customizable actuation points, rapid trigger mode for quick input repetition, and the ability to bind multiple commands to one key, this keyboard offers superb precision and control.

In addition to its gaming features, the Apex Pro TKL delivers a satisfying typing experience, with double-shot PBT keycaps, an aluminum-plated chassis, and per-key RGB lighting. The keyboard offers multiple connectivity options, including a USB dongle, Bluetooth, and a detachable USB-C cable. It also features a mini OLED display for profile swapping, actuation adjustment, macro programming, and more. While typing on the Apex Pro TKL may produce a slight clicking sound and the space bar might be louder, this keyboard’s overall features and build quality make it a top choice for wireless gaming.

Best Low-Profile Option: NuPhy Air75 V2

For those who prefer low-profile keyboards, the NuPhy Air75 V2 combines the slim design of a laptop keyboard with the satisfying feel of mechanical switches. This keyboard offers a comfortable typing and gaming experience, thanks to its low-profile “Daisy” switches. While these switches may strain your fingers over extended periods, they provide excellent responsiveness for gaming.

The Air75 V2 features a slim chassis, stabilizing the keys and minimizing flex. It offers a high-quality build, including double-shot PBT keycaps and per-key RGB lighting. Connectivity options include a USB dongle, Bluetooth, and a removable USB-C cable. While the default keycaps are not translucent, the overall design is pleasing to the eye. The keyboard’s wireless functions work well for non-gaming tasks, ensuring compatibility with Windows, macOS, and Linux. Although it lacks a wrist rest and comes with a plastic chassis, the Air75 V2 is a notable option for those seeking a low-profile gaming keyboard.

Honorable Mentions

In addition to the top picks, several other keyboards deserve honorable mentions.

The ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless is a great wireless option, featuring sound-dampening foam, pre-lubed ROG NX switches, and a sturdy build. Though it lacks certain gaming-specific features, it offers an excellent typing experience at a more affordable price point compared to the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless.
The ASUS ROG Azoth impresses with its gasket-mounted design, OLED display, and included switch-lubing toolkit. While it offers a premium typing experience, it falls short compared to the Wooting 60HE and the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless in terms of gaming-specific features.
The Razer Huntsman Mini is an affordable 60 percent gaming keyboard with textured PBT keycaps and optical switches. While it lacks some premium features, it is a solid choice for gamers looking for a smaller form factor.
The Corsair K70 RGB TKL is a worthy alternative to the Razer Huntsman V2 TKL, featuring dedicated media controls and various Cherry MX switch options. However, it does come with more noise and less user-friendly software.

In conclusion, finding the right gaming keyboard depends on your specific needs and budget. The top picks mentioned in this article offer exceptional features, build quality, and performance for a more immersive gaming experience. Whether you prefer analog capabilities, wireless freedom, or low-profile design, there is a gaming keyboard out there to suit your preferences. So, grab your new gaming keyboard, level up your gaming experience, and enjoy hours of immersive gameplay!

Note: Prices mentioned in this article are based on the time of writing and are subject to change.

Top gaming keyboards in 2023