A gaming keyboard is a great way to enhance your gaming experience. Compact and lightweight, they provide an added level of convenience that other keyboards just can’t match. Not only do they provide great portability, but gaming keyboards often come with extra features such as mechanical keys, programming macros and tactile feedback. The best gaming keyboards have to have the perfect combination of features, so here’s what to look for when picking one out.
Ergonomics
The comfort of your gaming keyboard is paramount. If it’s too bulky; or not the right shape or size; your gaming experience can become uncomfortable quickly. You’ll want to choose a gaming keyboard that has an ergonomic design, allowing you to type and game with ease. Look for one with adjustable wrist rests, so that the keyboard can conveniently fit your body type and gaming habits.
Mechanical Keys
Gaming keyboards usually feature mechanical keys which offer quicker response times when compared to membrane and dome type keys, as well as increased control over game functions and commands. Mechanical keys also offer greater durability and they are often more comfortable to use, as they usually have a better tactile response when activated.
Customization
Having the ability to customize your gaming keyboard can make it unique and allow you to tailor it to fit your gaming style. Modern gaming keyboards often come with options for key mapping, macro creation, and often backlighting.
Price
Of course, you’ll also want to consider the price of your gaming keyboard. Many gaming keyboards now cost less than $100, but you still want to do your due diligence and make sure you know what features you’re getting for that price. Some expensive gaming keyboards have additional features and a higher level of performance/durability that are worth the additional cost.
Entry Level Gaming Keyboard Options
If you’re on the lookout for an entry level gaming keyboard, then the best choices are likely to be either membrane or dome variety keyboards. These are often cheaper and more basic than their mechanical key counterparts. They tend to be more suitable for people that don’t gamer as much or don’t require the extra responsiveness of a mechanical keyboard. They don’t offer features such as backlighting, macro programming or key mapping, but are still suitable for gaming.
High End Gaming Keyboard Options
If you’re willing to spend more money on a gaming keyboard, then the best choice might be a mechanical keyboard. Mechanical keyboards generally offer better response times and increased durability. They also often feature programmable macro keys as well as backlighting, allowing you to customize the look and feel of your gaming setup. They tend to be more expensive than their membrane and dome counterparts, but they are worth the added investment if you need the extra performance and customization options.
Wireless Gaming Keyboard Options
If portability is important to you, then you may want to consider a wireless gaming keyboard. Wireless keyboards offer great convenience when gaming, as they don’t require cables or wires and can be taken anywhere. Wireless gaming keyboards are often more expensive than standard gaming keyboards, but they offer the added convenience of being able to game anywhere. Some of the higher end wireless gaming keyboards even come with features such as long battery life and a receiver that is plug and play ready.
Mechanical Switches
Mechanical switches offer gamers a great way to experience a tactile response when gaming. Different switches will offer different levels of responsiveness, as well as differing amounts of key travel. As such, it is important to research different types of mechanical switches and which ones are best suited to your gaming needs. All of these factors will give you an idea of whether a particular type of mechanical switch is best for your gaming needs.
RGB Backlighting
Many modern gaming keyboards come with the feature of RGB backlighting, which adds an extra layer of customization to the look and feel of your gaming setup. The use of custom lighting adds a depth to your gaming experience that is not possible with non-backlit gaming keyboards. RGB backlighting also can be used in conjunction with special gaming programs, allowing you to create special effects or change the look of your gaming setup on the fly.
Programmable Macro Keys
Gaming keyboards often come with one or more sets of programmable macro keys, which allow gamers to assign specific commands or combinations of commands to a single key. These macros can be invaluable in helping gamers become more efficient, as they can more easily access complex commands with the press of a single button. Programmable macros are particularly useful for gamers that rely on complicated maneuvers or commands in order to succeed in their game.
