The best gaming keyboard round-up

Like gaming mice, a gaming keyboard is ultimately an optional extra for offline and online play. That’s because you can happily use something like the Logitech POP Keys or Logitech MX Keys keyboards with okay results for gaming. That said, a great gaming keyboard can not only up your game, it can also have benefits for everyday computing, too.

Cost-wise, a decent entry-level membrane keyboard for under $100 but a high-performance tenkeyless (TKL) gaming keyboard can cost north of $500. For the most noticeable performance gains, consider a wired mechanical keyboard as a good starting point.

I’ve tested dozens of gaming keyboards, and praise doesn’t get much higher than a keyboard I’ve reviewed becoming my go-to keyboard after testing is complete. That’s the case for the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro. This gaming keyboard is as satisfying to use during casual offline gaming and competitive online gaming as it is for tackling the thousands of words I write each week. On the ergonomics front, the detachable soft wrist rest is a comfort godsend. The BlackWidow also boasts USB pass-through, easy-to-use media controls, plus a range of dedicated macro keys. Most importantly, it’s a responsive gaming keyboard that helps me type faster and assists in masking my aging reflexes online.

For full-size gaming keyboard alternatives, consider the Corsair K100 RGB, SteelSeries Apex Pro, Roccat Vulcan II Max or Rocca Vulcan 120 AIMO.

If you’re after a budget gaming keyboard, start comparisons with the HyperX Alloy Core RGB. This cheap full-size gaming ’board has some great features for the price, including dedicated media controls and RGB lighting (for those who fancy that aesthetic). Better yet, the Alloy Core has great platform versatility, fully compatible with Windows, MacOS and Linux computers. While you shouldn’t expect the responsiveness of a mechanical keyboard, the Alloy Core’s slower membrane keys mean less noise, which may work well for those looking to stream on Twitch or keep the noise down in their home or office. If you prefer offline games over high-speed online games, the Alloy Core is worth considering.

For a cheap gaming keyboard alternative, compare the HyperX Alloy Core RGB with the Logitech G213 Prodigy, Cooler Master Devastator 3 (includes a keyboard and mouse), Corsair K55 RGB Pro or Roccat Magma Membrane RGB.

If your budget allows it, the Asus ROG Claymore II is a versatile mechanical gaming keyboard. The high asking price gives you a lot of flexibility, including a modular numpad (with media controls) that slots into the right or left of the keyboard. Alternatively, remove the numpad entirely for a space-saving TKL gaming keyboard. On the ergonomics front, there’s a removable soft wrist rest, too, for comfy all-day work and all-night gaming. The ROG Claymore II is a fast-charging wireless gaming keyboard that pairs with a low-latency USB receiver to make the most of the responsive mechanical keys. That said, you should use a wired connection if you want the best performance out of this (or other wireless) gaming keyboards.

Alternatively, consider the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro, SteelSeries Apex Pro or Corsair K100 RGB.

Originally, we had the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless in this top spot. Then along came the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless. The Corsair gaming keyboard is cheaper and just as performative as the Apex Pro Mini Wireless, albeit with fewer key concessions. As a 75% keyboard, the K65 Plus Wireless offers a full f-row of keys up the top, plus some cleverly crammed options on the right of the chassis. It’s still light enough to be mobile, includes a storage slot for the 2.4GHz dongle and has fantastic multiplatform compatibility. A cleverly placed programmable dial and intuitive Corsair iCUE software round out a compelling gaming keyboard, which also supports Bluetooth and wired connectivity.

If you’ve got a bigger budget and want a smaller alternative, go with the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless. Otherwise, also consider the Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless or Keychron K2.

Tenkeyless (TKL) keyboards are a popular choice among gamers because they’re a great form-factor fit between a space-hogging full-size keyboard and an impractically small mini keyboard. Get past the steep asking price, and you can enjoy the perks of a high-performance wired gaming keyboard with the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL. Numpad notwithstanding, the Apex Pro TKL is just at home for everyday use as it is for any gaming application. Plus, the OLED smart display is a nice touch. The Apex Pro TKL is built to travel with a removable USB cable, magnetic wrist rest and durability thanks to an aluminium alloy frame. Consider the Apex Pro TKL as an investment in high-performance, personalised gaming.

Alternatively, cut the cord with the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless or Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed gaming keyboards.

Your gaming keyboard budget will help determine what to expect. For under $100, you can get a wired membrane gaming keyboard with quiet keystrokes and RGB lighting. Between $100 and $200 is where wired mechanical keyboards are a viable option, which are generally louder than cheaper membrane alternatives but offer faster keystroke responsiveness.

Expect to unlock wireless options between $200 and $300. Beyond $300 is where you get to high-end keyboards, which may include features like a detachable wrist rest, modular designs, keystroke actualisation customisation and other perks. For mechanical keyboards, pay attention to whether the switches are linear (smooth keystroke), tactile (noticeably keystroke registry) or clicky (heavier feel and loudest).

Typically, most gaming keyboards are compatible with Windows PCs but others may also offer native Linux and/or MacOS support. If you’re after a wireless gaming keyboard, 2.4GHz offers the best responsiveness but the lowest latency comes from wired keyboards. Only look at Bluetooth gaming keyboards if you’re interested in connecting to more platforms, as Bluetooth has slower latency and is less responsive than 2.4GHz or wired connections.