In recent years, the gaming industry has seen a boom in the adoption of USB3.0 devices, enabling speedy data transfers and keep up with the growth of games. But do gaming keyboards really need to be USB3.0 compatible? To answer this question, we must first consider the differences between USB2.0 and USB3.0.
USB2.0 is the older, predecessor to USB 3.0. While it never achieved the impressive speeds that USB 3.0 does, USB2.0 can move data at more than enough capacity for basic keystrokes. Furthermore, there are usually no lag issues experienced when gaming with a USB2.0 keyboard. As such, USB2.0 remains both compatible and viable for gaming keyboards.
Moving onto USB 3.0, this technology has revolutionised the gaming industry in recent years. USB 3.0 allows bandwidth transfer of up to 7Gb/s, large enough to handle audio and visual data as well as keystrokes. It also offers much lower latency, meaning you won’t experience any significant lag or delays between pressing keys and seeing your actions on screen.
However, while USB 3.0 is beneficial, the fact remains that most games don’t require the extra speed provided by USB 3.0. This means that USB 3.0 compatible keyboards are a good choice, but not necessarily a requirement. Unless you plan on playing games which require the full bandwidth of USB3.0, then there’s no need to invest in such a device.
For those who do plan on playing more intensive games, USB3.0 gaming keyboards can be beneficial. But, as with any gaming device, it really depends on your preferences and budget. There are some excellent non-USB 3.0 keyboards available, some of which allow up to 1000 keystrokes per second – much faster than what USB2.0 can provide!
In summary, it is not necessary to invest in a USB3.0 gaming keyboard if you don’t plan on playing more intensive games. However, if you do wish to take full advantage of the latest technology available, then a USB3.0 keyboard is a good choice.
What are the Advantages of USB3.0?
USB3.0 technology provides a great advantage to gamers and keyboard users. The speed increase of USB 3.0, as revealed earlier, allows larger amounts of data to be transferred in a shorter period of time. This helps to reduce latency in games, leading to much smoother gameplay overall.
USB 3.0 also offers great power delivery benefits. The steep rise in popularity of e-sports means the need for responsive, powerful gaming keyboards has grown significantly. This means that USB3.0 keyboards offer the perfect solution to this need, as they can provide more power than USB2.0 models.
The cost of USB3.0 keyboards also cannot be discounted. While the technology provides plenty of benefits, the price of USB3.0 compliant gaming keyboards is still relatively affordable. This means that anyone can take advantage of the speed and power of USB3.0 without breaking the bank.
Lastly, USB3.0 is now fully compatible with all modern platforms, from Windows to Mac, iOS to Android. The adapters available on the market can be used to plug in any USB3.0 keyboard into any modern device, meaning the gaming keyboard you purchase can serve you for years to come.
Do We Need a High End Keyboard?
Many gamers assume that in order to get the most out of their gaming experience they will need to invest in a high-end gaming keyboard, such as those that are USB3.0 compatible. However, while affordable and cost-effective gaming keyboards are available, they often lack features that USB 3.0 keyboards offer.
That said, cost is still a factor to consider and some gamers may prefer to invest in a cheaper model instead. While these may not offer the total performance of the USB3.0 models, for casual gamers who do not demand perfect gaming performance, these models may be enough.
Overall, whether or not you need to invest in a gaming keyboard really comes down to personal preference and budget. If you play more intensive games, then USB 3.0 keyboards may offer more benefit. If you play less demanding games, then USB2.0 models may be suitable.
Are USB3.0 Keyboards the Future?
Given the performance benefits USB3.0 gaming keyboards offer, it’s very likely that this technology will continue to be adopted by the gaming industry. More and more games are being developed with greater graphical fidelity and performance in mind, both of which require more powerful technologies such as USB 3.0.
However, USB2.0 models will still be relevant, especially since they are much more affordable than USB 3.0 models. Furthermore, this technology is still compatible with most modern platforms, and can still offer enough performance in less resource-intensive games.
At the end of the day, USB3.0 will become more and more common, but the decision to purchase a USB3.0 compatible gaming keyboard really depends on the user. If you are a more casual gamer, then a USB2.0 model may be enough. But, if you are a competitive or professional gamer, then investing in a USB 3.0 keyboard may be your best bet.
How Can I Use My USB3.0 Keyboard for Business Purposes?
Given the capabilities and performance benefits of USB3.0 keyboards, it may be tempting to purchase a gaming keyboard for other tasks, such as office work or school work. While these devices can indeed be used for typing and other tasks, it should be noted that they can be a bit overkill in situations where only basic data entry is required.
However, if you do carry out more intense data-processing tasks such as designing, coding or programming, then investing in a USB3.0 keyboard can offer benefits. They will offer the speed and power you need to get the job done, as well as offering excellent value for money.
In short, if you’re planning on using your keyboard extensively, either for gaming or other purposes, then USB3.0 technology may be worth investing in. But if you don’t plan on using such an intense amount of power all the time, then a cheaper USB2.0 option may be the smarter choice.
Are USB3.0 Keyboards Compatible With Older Systems?
USB3.0 technology is not compatible with systems which use older USB standards. This means that if you have an older computer, or if you wish to use your gaming keyboard with one, then you will require an adapter to use it.
Fortunately, there are a range of adapters which are cheap and easy to use. These adapters can convert any USB 3.0 device to a USB2.0 standard, allowing you to use it with an ageing computer without issues. Having said that, it should be noted that, even with an adapter, USB3.0 gaming keyboards will still be limited by the speed of USB2.0.
Overall, USB3.0 gaming keyboards offer plenty of benefits, from increased speed and data transfer to better power delivery. But, as with any device, it really depends on what you plan on using it for.
However, if you do plan on taking full advantage of the latest technology, and don’t mind making the extra investment, then a USB3.0 technology gaming keyboard may be the right choice for you.
