As gaming technology advances and the world of gaming becomes increasingly popular, finding the best TKL gaming keyboard is essential for all serious gamers. While there are many different gaming keyboards on the market, a tenkeyless gaming keyboard (TKL) offers a number of advantages and can be an excellent choice for gamers. TKL keyboards are designed without a numeric keypad, thus significantly reducing their size and providing more space for other keys, making them a great option for gamers aiming to optimize their desktop space. Furthermore, TKL keyboards are also more portable compared to their full-sized counterparts, making them ideal for gamers who often play away from home.
The layout of a TKL keyboard may be slightly different than full keyboard layouts, but the standard gaming key functions are still the same. TKL keyboards usually have a few extra buttons that can be programmed, but don’t typically include the full range of extra keys that a full-sized keyboard would have. Despite this, many gamers find that the less cluttered environment of the TKL keyboard is an ideal setup for gaming and prefer the sleek design. Moreover, the absence of the numeric keypad also allows for a more comfortable gaming experience, as the keys are usually closer to the center of the keyboard, allowing the gamer to keep their wrists in a more natural position while playing.
When it comes to finding the best TKL gaming keyboard, there are many factors to consider, such as the type of key switches, the materials used for the keycaps, the backlighting and macro settings. Most TKL keyboards use the same mechanical key switches as full-sized keyboards and some have customizable keycap heights and materials, allowing gamers to tailor the keyboard to their needs. For example, some gamers prefer a light, low-profile keyboard with tactile switches, while others prefer a heavier, more robust keyboard with linear switches. Additionally, most TKL gaming keyboards come with backlighting, allowing gamers to easily see in dark conditions and to customize the look of their keyboard to match their gaming setup.
One other major factor to consider when shopping for a TKL gaming keyboard is the macro support. Some TKL keyboards come with dedicated macro keys, allowing gamers to quickly access complex commands and shortcuts. Additionally, some TKL keyboards come with software that allows gamers to create and assign macros to any key on the keyboard. This can be a great way to increase gaming skills and give gamers an edge in competitive games.
When it comes to finding the best TKL gaming keyboard, it is important to consider all of the above factors, as they can significantly affect the gaming experience. TKL keyboards offer many advantages to gamers and can be an excellent choice for those looking to optimize their gaming setup. However, the most important factor remains personal preference, as the best gaming keyboard for one gamer may not be the best for another.
Types Of Switches
Switches are the individual key mechanisms on a keyboard and come in a number of different varieties. Most TKL gaming keyboards use mechanical switches, which are considered to be superior to membrane keys, as they offer a more tactile response and more accurate key-press registration. There are a variety of mechanical key switches available, including linear, linear tactile and clicky switches. Linear switches are smooth and offer little feedback when pressed, while tactile switches are slightly heavier and provide a noticeable bump when activated. Finally, clicky switches are noisy, providing audible feedback when pressed.
Each type of switch can offer different advantages to gamers. Linear switches are ideal for gamers that need a quieter gaming experience and faster key registering, as the light nature of the switch can make them more responsive. However, tactile switches provide more feedback and allow gamers to identify when a keypress has been registered. Likewise, clicky switches provide audible feedback and can be more intuitive to use. Ultimately, the type of switch used is primarily a matter of personal preference.
Key Caps
The keycaps on a TKL gaming keyboard can also influence the gaming experience. Keycaps are typically made of either ABS or PBT plastic and come in a range of colours and shapes. ABS keycaps are lighter and cheaper, but can become glossy over time, while PBT keycaps are more durable and resistant to wear. Additionally, some gaming keyboards come with custom keycaps, which can make the keyboard look more appealing, as well as providing gamer specific layouts for easier accessibility.
Changing the keycaps can also have an effect on the performance of the gaming keyboard. Keycaps made of different materials can affect the actuation force required to register a key press and can also affect the noise produced by the keyboard. This can be beneficial for gamers looking for a quieter gaming experience. Additionally, custom keycaps can make it easier to access specific keys and can also provide more comfort when gaming for extended periods.
Backlighting
The colour of a gaming keyboard is another major factor to consider when choosing the best TKL gaming keyboard. Most gaming keyboards come with backlighting and can be adjusted depending on the game being played or the user’s preferences. Backlighting options range from simple blue or white, to RGB backlighting with millions of colors to choose from. This can be a great way to customize the keyboard and provides gaming in low-light conditions.
When considering the lighting of a gaming keyboard, it is important to think about the brightness of the lighting and the number of colors available. Many gaming keyboards come with RGB backlighting, allowing gamers to choose from millions of colors, as well as adjust the lighting effects. Additionally, the brightness of the lighting can also significantly affect the gaming experience. Too bright lighting can be distracting, so it is important to find a balance between brightness and visibility.
Macro Settings
Macros are a great way to automate complex commands and can be very helpful in gaming. Some TKL gaming keyboards come with dedicated macro keys, making it easy to access macro commands and allowing gamers to customize their gaming experience. Many gaming keyboards also come with software that allows gamers to create, save and assign their own macros to any key on the keyboard. This makes it much easier to use and can be a great way for gamers to optimize their game play and take their performance to the next level.
When considering the macro capabilities of a TKL gaming keyboard, it is important to look into the macro building tools available, as well as the customizability of the macro keys. Additionally, it is also important to look into the types of macros available, as different types of macros offer different benefits. Some TKL gaming keyboards allow for the creation of complex macros, allowing gamers to use complex commands and strategies for more advanced gaming.
Durability
Durability is another major factor to consider when shopping for a TKL gaming keyboard, as gaming keyboards can take a significant amount of wear and tear over time. Most TKL gaming keyboards use durable materials such as aluminum or steel in their construction, making them much more robust than standard keyboards. Additionally, most TKL gaming keyboards are designed with extra long keystrokes, allowing the keys to be used more times before they start to wear down. This is a great way to ensure that the keyboard lasts longer and can provide years of use.
In addition to the materials used, the durability of a gaming keyboard can also be affected by the key switches. All of the mechanical key switches used in gaming keyboards are tested for durability, with some switches being rated for up to 50 million keypresses. Additionally, some gaming keyboards come with exchangeable keycaps and switches, allowing gamers to easily replace damaged switches and keycaps for a more durable and adjustable gaming experience.
Price
Price is also a major factor to consider when shopping for a TKL gaming keyboard. As with most gaming peripherals, the price can vary significantly, depending on the features and quality of the product. Generally, TKL gaming keyboards range from moderately priced to high-end, with more expensive options typically offering better quality materials, as well as more features and extra key customization options.
Additionally, many gaming keyboards come with bundled software and additional accessories, such as wrist rests and mouse mats, which can be a great way to reduce the overall cost of the package. It is important to compare the prices of different TKL gaming keyboards and consider any extra accessories that come with the product, as this can make a significant difference in the overall price.
Finding the best TKL gaming keyboard is no easy task, as there are many factors to consider. By taking into account the key switches, keycaps, backlighting, macro settings, durability and price, gamers can identify the perfect TKL gaming keyboard for their needs and take their gaming to the next level.
