What’s A Good Gaming Keyboard? When it comes to gaming keyboards, there’s a wide array of options available to suit the needs and budgets of all gamers. Gaming keyboards typically come with features like programmable macro keys, backlighting and adjustable height. They also come in wired and wireless models. When it comes to price, gaming keyboards can range from budget friendly to luxurious, but for most gamers, the aim is to find a balance between quality and affordability.
When choosing a gaming keyboard, it’s important to look at the type of switches being used. The keyboards switches play a key role in determining how tactile and responsive the keyboard feels, as well as how long it will last for. Mechanical switches are often the most popular types, with Cherry MX switches being the most popular. All Cherry MX switches offer a different typing experience, so it’s important to choose one that’s right for you.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a gaming keyboard is the size and design. By choosing a compact keyboard, you’ll have more room on your desk and you won’t have to stretch your arms while gaming. The size of the keyboard will also have an impact on the amount of keys available, so if you need to program multiple macro keys then a full sized keyboard will be a better option.
Another important and often overlooked factor when choosing a gaming keyboard is the type of backlighting. This feature is useful for gaming and for working in dark rooms. RGB lighting is the most popular and it allows users to customize their keyboard with various colors configurations, plus you can change the color scheme to your preference. Some gaming keyboards even feature exclusive software for customizing RGB LED lights.
Ergonomics are also important when choosing a gaming keyboard. Ergonomic designs provide more comfort and greater stability while gaming. They are also great for reducing fatigue when typing for long periods of time. Gaming keyboards also come with adjustable palm rests and height adjustments so you can set the keyboard to the most comfortable position.
Finally, another factor to consider when shopping for a gaming keyboard is the warranties. Make sure the keyboard has good durability and comes with a warranty in case something unexpected happens. Some companies also offer money-back guarantees or free replacement if you are not fully satisfied with your gaming keyboard.
Different Switch Types
In the world of gaming keyboards, one of the most significant decisions is which switch type to get. Switches are the internal parts of a keyboard that interact with your keypress, and each type of switch offers a unique tactile response and durability. The most popular switch types include rubber dome, mechanical and scissor switches. It’s important to consider your needs before making your decision, as each type of switch has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.
One of the most popular switch types is the mechanical switch. Mechanical switches are extremely durable, often offering a lifetime of 75 million key presses or more. Moreover, they offer a very tactile response, so you can tell exactly when a keypress has been registered. Depending on the type of switch, they can also be quite loud, so if you don’t want to disturb others you may want to opt for a different switch type.
Another type of switch is the rubber dome switch. These switches offer a very soft and nearly silent response. The downside to these switches is they tend to wear out faster than mechanical switches and have a decreased lifespan. While they may be suitable for casual gamers, most serious gamers will prefer to stick to mechanical switches.
The third type of switch is the scissor switch. These switches are similar to mechanical switches, but they don’t make any noise when pressed. This can be beneficial for gamers who don’t want to distract others, or for those who want to bring their gaming experience to the office without annoying their colleagues.
Finally, it’s important to consider the actual switch type you’re looking for when shopping for a gaming keyboard. Popular switch types include Cherry MX switches and Kailh switches, so it pays to do your research to find out which ones are best suited to your gaming needs.
Cables & Wireless Connectivity
Another factor to consider when choosing a gaming keyboard is the type of cable or wireless connection being used. If you plan on using your gaming keyboard for hours upon hours of gaming, then a wired connection is the way to go. Wired connections offer increased reliability and a more responsive connection as there’s no interference from other wireless devices. If you do opt for a wired connection, then you also want to make sure the cable is durable and long enough to extend from your computer to your gaming setup.
On the other hand, if you prefer more freedom of movement and don’t want to worry about using the wrong cable for the wrong device, then a wireless connection may be the better choice. Wireless connections come with their own benefits, such as portability and a more easily adjustable gaming setup. Plus, many wireless gaming keyboards come with long-lasting batteries, so you don’t have to worry about plugging it in every time you want to play.
When it comes to wireless connections, there are two main types – Bluetooth and RF. Both offer great connective ability, but Bluetooth offers more range and is easier to set up. RF, on the other hand, is more reliable and offers faster response times. It all comes down to personal preference, but it’s worth noting that some gaming mice come with controllers that only use Bluetooth so if you plan on using a wireless connection, that should also be taken into consideration.
Finally, it’s worth noting that wireless gaming keyboards also come with a USB dongle for wireless connection. This dongle often stored inside the keyboard and can be used for connecting the keyboard to other devices. However, using a dongle for connecting to a gaming device can decrease the range of connectivity and can also be a burden on batteries when used for long periods of gaming.
Extra Features
When shopping for a gaming keyboard it’s important to consider the extra features being offered. Many gaming keyboards come with a range of extra features like anti-ghosting, N-Key rollover, volume control dials, dedicated media keys and programmable macro keys.
Anti-ghosting helps prevent keys from overlapping or missing key inputs. It’s especially important for gaming as it allows gamers to send multiple key inputs with a single press. N-key rollover is another important feature and it allows gamers to press any number of keys simultaneously and have confident that all of the key inputs will be registered.
Dedicated media keys are another great feature of many gaming keyboards as they allow users to quickly adjust audio levels without having to switch to a different window. The same goes for volume control dials, which allows for more fine-tuned adjustments. Finally, programmable macro keys are great for gamers as they allow for creating custom key combinations for specific tasks.
Depending on your needs and budget, it’s worth considering whether the features offered by a gaming keyboard are beneficial for your gaming setup. It’s also important to note that some gaming keyboards come with extra features, like RGB lighting and built-in screens, so these should also be taken into consideration when choosing the best gaming keyboard.
Price & Quality
When it comes to budget, gaming keyboards can range from affordable to expensive. It’s important to find the right balance between price and quality, though, as there’s no point in investing in a gaming keyboard that’s cheap but won’t last and can’t deliver the performance you need.
When considering price, it’s also important to look at the warranty period. Many gaming keyboards come with up to 2-year warranties, so if something goes wrong during that period then you may be able to get a replacement. If a particular keyboard only offers a 1-year warranty, then that’s an indication that the manufacturer doesn’t stand behind the product as much.
Speaking of quality, it’s important to pay attention to the type of materials used in the manufacturing process. Durable materials like stainless steel frames and ABS plastic provide better protection from wear and tear. It’s also important to look for gaming keyboards that offer easy maintenance and repairs, which will make it easier to keep them in top condition.
Finally, it’s worth noting that cheaper gaming keyboards often come with fewer features. If you need access to extra features, then it may be worth investing in a more expensive model as they often come with a much greater range of potential customization options.
Conclusion
When it comes to gaming keyboards, there are a lot of factors to consider. From switch types and connectors to extra features and price, there are a lot of options out there. It’s important to do your research and consider your needs before making a purchase. But if you follow these tips, then you should be able to find the perfect gaming keyboard for your gaming setup.
