Are you in the market for a new gaming keyboard? They can sweeten up your gaming setup, raise your skill level and guarantee extra hours of playtime. There are thousands of gaming keyboards available today, and they’re all best suited to different types of gamers. To help you decide which gaming keyboard to buy, here’s some expert advice.
Price is an important aspect, and the better the keyboard, the more expensive it will be. There are budget boards for around $50, mid-level boards in the $100-$200 range, and premium boards from $200 and up. Numerous features also come into play here, such as build quality, lighting effects, extra macro keys, and a good wrist rest.
In terms of size, keyboards come in full size, tenkeyless (TKL), 60%, and more compact options. Esports pros tend to opt for the TKL or even the smaller options, ’cause they’re more portable, but if you like having a full numpad, go for a full size keyboard. Size aside, the key switch is one of the most important parts. Generally, Cherry MX or Kailh switches are preferred by gamers, typically either red, brown, or blue.
Whether or not you go for a mechanical or membrane keyboard is also important. Membrane keyboards tend to be cheaper but less accurate and less durable, whereas mechanical keyboard switches are more durable and provide a faster, more tactile experience. If you’re a hardcore gamer, you definitely want a mechanical gaming keyboard.
Finally, the quality of the software that accompanies the keyboard can impact the overall user experience. Some keyboards come with proprietary software that allows gamers to set up custom macros, tweak speed and accuracy, and light up keys in an attractive manner. Different gaming keyboards also come with different types of connections such as USB, wireless, and Bluetooth.
Mechanical Keyboards
Mechanical Keyboards are amongst the most popular choices of gaming keyboards, due to their durability and reliability. Many mechanical keyboards now come with Kailh or Cherry MX switches, which provide a faster and more tactile experience, as well as better overall accuracy when playing. In addition, the keys are easier to press, allowing for faster response times, which a lot of gamers appreciate.
Depending on the type of switch you get, there is a certain amount of noise that comes with mechanical keyboards, which some gamers may find distracting. Others may find this as part of the charm of mechanical keyboards, as it gives them a certain feeling of accomplishment when they hear the click refreshingly reassuring them of their success in the game.
One factor that gamers should consider before opting for a mechanical keyboard is the price, as they tend to be more expensive than other types of gaming keyboards. Of course, if you prioritize comfort and gaming performance, and want to go for the best gaming keyboard available, a mechanical keyboard would be the one for you.
When buying a mechanical keyboard, gamers should also be aware of the fact that certain brands tend to get better reviews. Some of the more well-known brands for mechanical keyboards are Corsair, Razer, and Logitech, as they are known for making highly reliable and well-built mechanical keyboards.
Ergonomics
When considering a gaming keyboard, ergonomics is another important factor to consider. Ergonomics is a word used to describe how comfortable the user feels when using a particular keyboard. This is especially important if you plan on spending a lot of time playing your games, as a good ergonomic keyboard will help you to attain better performance in the game by helping you stay comfortable, without having to take as many breaks.
However, there are a number of factors that go into making a keyboard comfortable, and you should always look at the design of the keyboard before you buy. Some key features to look out for include wrist rests, palm pads, and backlit keys, as these will help to reduce fatigue and make the experience of gaming a lot more enjoyable.
Apart from ergonomics, you should also look out for other features such as macro keys and backlit keys, as these can also be useful in helping you to get the best performance out of your gaming keyboard. A lot of gaming keyboards have certain pre-programmed macro keys that allow you to quickly access certain functions or skills, which can give you a competitive advantage in the game.
Backlit keyboards are also great for playing in the dark, as they provide illumination to the keys which can make it easier to find the right keys when you are playing in low light conditions. These are just a few of the factors that you should take into account when looking for a gaming keyboard, and they can all help you to make a more informed decision on which gaming keyboard to buy.
Customization
When shopping for a gaming keyboard, it’s worth looking at the level of customization available. Most gaming keyboards come with certain customization options such as custom key mapping, macros, and lighting effects. Customization is particularly useful for gamers who play a lot of different types of games and need to be able to quickly switch between key settings according to the game.
Some keyboards even allow you to use different profiles according to the game you are playing, and some gaming keyboards even allow you to create custom lighting effects with software that comes with the keyboard. In addition, some keyboards are even compatible with third party software, which adds even more flexibility to the customization options.
Customization also applies to the key switches of gaming keyboards. Different types of switches activate at different distances, making some better for gaming than others. As well as this, some switches are also quieter than others, so if you prefer a quieter gaming experience you should look out for a keyboard with quieter switches.
Finally, the aesthetics of the keyboard is also important. A lot of gaming keyboards come with customizable lighting, which can be a great way to add a bit of personality to your gaming setup. There are also a number of third party accessories for gaming keyboards that you can purchase, such as custom keycaps and light strips.
Durability
Durability is another important factor to consider when it comes to buying a gaming keyboard. After all, you want your gaming keyboard to last a long time, so it’s important to consider how well built it is. When shopping for a gaming keyboard, look for indicators of build quality, such as reinforced plastic, metal frames, and better-quality key switches.
Of course, different gaming keyboards come with different levels of durability, and it’s up to you to decide which is the most appropriate for you. However, it’s generally recommended that gamers opt for gaming keyboards with high-quality components and reinforced plastic frames as these tend to be more durable, and offer better gaming performance as a result.
A good quality gaming keyboard should also be able to withstand the wear and tear that comes with frequent gaming. This means it should be able to resist the heavy gaming style of diehard gamers and should be able to last for a long period of time without any problems.
Finally, it’s important to look at the warranty of the keyboard when making your decision. Many gaming keyboards come with a two or three-year warranty that covers any manufacturing defects, but it’s also worth checking if there are any additional warranties that cover accidental damage, as these are often more expensive.
