Does gaming keyboards and mice really affect performance? The short answer is yes. A good gaming keyboard and mouse can make a huge difference to your gaming experience and can be a major factor in your success or failure. There are a lot of benefits to be had from investing in the right hardware.
The type and quality of hardware you choose can make all the difference as to how well you perform in a game. A gaming keyboard is designed specifically to increase in-game accuracy through its mechanical switches which ensure precision input. The tactile feedback allows for faster reaction times, which can be invaluable in certain games where timing is key.
The gaming mouse on the other hand, is designed for speed and accuracy. It can be tailored to suit any particular gaming style, with adjustable sensitivities, which is useful for FPS or RTS games. A good gaming mouse has an ergonomic shape to reduce fatigue and improve comfort, often featuring extra buttons and an adjustable weight system to give the user more control.
A high quality gaming keyboard and mouse can also reduce input lag, meaning that the time between pressing a button on the keyboard or mouse and the corresponding action appearing in-game is reduced. This helps gamers to react more quickly as there is less time for the game to buffer and process the input.
Finally, gaming keyboards and mice have special features, such as custom profiles and macros, which allow users to assign specific controls for a game or a particular game mode. This can improve the user’s efficiency and effectiveness in-game and can be a major boost to their performance.
Different Types Of Keyboards & Mice
Modern gaming keyboards come in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles. Some are designed specifically for gaming, with mechanical switches and gaming-oriented features, while others are standard keyboards with gaming-friendly features such as an LED backlighting, adjustable wrist rest and macro buttons. Mechanical keyboards are generally considered the best for gaming, but they can be expensive. Membrane keyboards are a cheaper option but are best suited to casual gamers.
Gaming mice also come in several shapes, sizes and styles. Wired or wireless, with or without weights, with extra buttons or special macro settings, there is something for everyone. The size, shape and weight of the mouse should be tailored to the gamer’s hand size and grip style. Additionally, having extra buttons allows the user to assign shortcuts to specific actions, streamlining the gaming process.
Gamers also have the option of using Optical or Laser mice. Optical mice work on most surfaces but are generally slower and less precise than Laser ones. On the other hand, Laser mice tend to be more responsive and accurate, but usually require an special mousepad for optimum performance.
One of the most important factors to consider when buying a gaming keyboard or mouse is the precision and sensitivity of the hardware. Different gaming genres require different levels of precision and accuracy, so it is important to select the hardware that best suits your gaming style. It is also important to look at the additional features such as macros, profiles and RGB lighting.
The Pros & Cons Of Gaming Keyboard/Mice
Using gaming keyboards and mice has a lot of advantages. As mentioned, a good gaming keyboard will provide gamers with faster response times and improved accuracy. This can be invaluable in certain games, such as in FPS games, where timing and precision are essential. Extra macro buttons can also provide gamers with an advantage, allowing them to quickly assign specific controls.
On the other hand, there are some downsides. Gaming keyboards and mice are more expensive than regular ones, and may require regular maintenance or upgrades in order to keep up with the latest games. Additionally, some gamers may find the extra buttons on gaming mice or the mechanical switches on gaming keyboards to be uncomfortable.
Finally, while they can be helpful, gaming keyboards and mice don’t necessarily guarantee success in a game. It is ultimately up to the gamer to use the tools in their advantage and learn the skills needed to master their games.
Finding The Right Hardware For Your Needs
When buying a gaming keyboard or mouse, it is important to do one’s research. Different gaming genres require different types of hardware, so it is important to match the hardware to the game. For instance, MMOs require more macros than FPSs, so a mouse with extra buttons might be a better choice for this type of game.
It is also important to choose a keyboard and mouse that fits the user’s hand size and grip style. Ergonomic shapes and adjustable weights help to reduce fatigue, while extra buttons and macros give the user greater control and increased efficiency. Additionally, if the user requires higher accuracy and precision, they should opt for a mouse with higher sensitivities or a gaming keyboard with mechanical switches.
It is also important to consider the extras, such as RGB lighting, adjustable wrist rests and macro profiles. These add-ons, while not necessarily necessary, can be a nice bonus and increase the user’s enjoyment.
Maintenance And Upgrading
It is important to remember that gaming mice and keyboards need to be taken care of and regularly upgraded to keep up with the latest games. Due to their mechanical switches, gaming keyboards can be prone to sticking and double-clicking, so it is important to regularly clean them if they start to show signs of wear. Mice, meanwhile, can be prone to dirt and wear and tear, so it is important to make sure the sensor and other components are properly maintained.
Additionally, gaming keyboards and mice should be regularly upgraded in order to take advantage of new features and technologies. It is also a good idea to have a spare set of hardware in case of failure, as it can be troublesome to be without a mouse or a keyboard when gaming.
Conclusion
Investing in a good gaming keyboard and mouse can be a great way to improve your gaming performance. They provide gamers with faster response times, improved accuracy, and more control. However, it is important to do your research and get the right hardware for the job. It is also important to keep them well maintained and regularly upgrade them to take advantage of the latest technologies.
