How To Pick A Gaming Keyboard

Picking the right gaming keyboard is essential in order to maximize performance. It is not just a matter of aesthetic appeal, but also the type of keys, response time, durability, and availability of additional features that will affect gameplay. The following provides a guide on how to pick the best gaming keyboard.

Firstly, identify the features and requirements that are important for your gaming. Different genres require different sets of features, so it is vital to select one that is best suited for your gaming preferences. Consider the type of switch, numpad, gaming mode and other additional features that you may need.

Secondly, think about your budget. Most gaming keyboards are more expensive than regular keyboards, so be sure to set a budget before deciding which one to purchase. Keep in mind that the more features the keyboard has, the more expensive it will be. This means that it is important to identify the features that you need and those that you can go without.

Thirdly, look into what is available in the market. Research online stores, read customer reviews, and ask experts on gaming forums. This will enable you to identify which gaming keyboards will provide the best value for money. Also, check out the key travel distance, response time and feel of the keys, as these will affect your performance.

Fourthly, consider build quality and durability. Gaming keyboards tend to be more expensive due to the special materials used in their construction. Ensure that the keyboard you select can withstand frequent use without deteriorating in any way.

Fifthly, comparing prices is an important step. Identify which options provide the best value for money, and compare the prices of different gaming keyboards. It is also important to remember that price is not always an indication of quality.

Lastly, consider the aesthetics of the gaming keyboard. There are a variety of designs and colours available, so be sure to select one that will look good in your gaming setup. Most gaming keyboards also come with RGB lighting which can be used to create a unique gaming atmosphere.

Types of Switches

The type of switch on a gaming keyboard is an important factor in selecting the right keyboard. There are two main types of switches: mechanical and membrane. Mechanical switches provide a tactile feedback when pressed, making them ideal for gaming. They are also more durable and tend to last longer. Membrane switches, on the other hand, provide less feedback when pressed, making them better suited for typing.

When browsing gaming keyboards, you will often come across terms such as Cherry MX, Kailh and Romer-G. These are all different types of mechanical switches, each with its own unique characteristics. Different types of switches are better suited for different types of gaming, so it is important to identify which one will work best for you.

For instance, Cherry MX red switches are better for shooters such as Counter-Strike because they provide a fast response time and require less force to activate them. The Kailh switches, on the other hand, are quieter and more durable, making them better suited for MMOs such as World of Warcraft.

Lastly, the Romer-G switches are great for MOBA’s such as League of Legends, as they provide a tactile feedback and require less force to press. Ultimately, it is important to identify the type of switch that is best suited for your gaming preference.

Numpad

Another factor to consider when selecting a gaming keyboard is the numpad. Having a numpad can be useful for specific genres such as MMOs, as it allows for quicker access to abilities and commands. However, some gaming keyboards lack a numpad in order to provide more space for other features such as extra buttons.

If you are looking for a gaming keyboard, it is important to take into consideration if a numpad is necessary. If you play genres such as first-person shooters and racing games, then a numpad is not necessary as the rest of the keyboard should suffice. On the other hand, if you play genres such as MMOs or RTSs, then a numpad will be beneficial in order to quickly access abilities and commands.

When looking at gaming keyboards with a numpad, it is important to note that the placement of the numpad can vary. Some gaming keyboards feature a numpad that is positioned slightly to the left, which can be useful for gamers that use their left hand to move their mouse. However, some gaming keyboards feature a full-size numpad that is placed close to the center or to the right, which may make it easier for gamers that use a mouse with their right hand.

Lastly, some gaming keyboards may feature an extra set of keys between the numpad and the main keys. These are called macro keys, and they can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, they can be used for assigning multiple commands to a single key, or for quickly accessing certain in-game functions.

Gaming Mode

Most gaming keyboards come with a gaming mode feature, which allows you to disable certain keys while gaming. This feature can be useful if you want to prevent accidental pressing of keys while gaming, such as pressing the Windows key or Alt+Tab. To activate this mode, simply press the gaming mode key, which is usually located at the top right corner of the keyboard.

Using the gaming mode will prevent certain keys from responding to input. This means that you will have to manually press the gaming mode key in order to enable the keys that you require for gaming. It is also important to note that the gaming mode may vary from one keyboard to the other, so be sure to check the manual to see which keys can be disabled.

Although the gaming mode feature is useful, it may take some time to adjust to it. It may also require a bit of practice in order to get used to pressing the gaming mode key every time you enter a game. However, with time and practice, you will be able to master the use of gaming mode and make full use of its capabilities.

Additional Features

In addition to the features mentioned above, some gaming keyboards come with additional extras that can enhance your gaming experience. These include media keys, extra buttons, built-in memory profiles and RGB lighting. Depending on the keyboard, some of these features may be included, so it is important to read the specs of the device before purchasing.

Media keys are additional keys located near the F keys that allow you to control and adjust the volume, playback rate and other audio settings. Extra buttons are usually located at the top of the keyboard and can be used to quickly access common features such as creating a screenshot or accessing the task manager. Meanwhile, built-in memory profiles are used to store commonly used settings, such as colour schemes and macros, so that you can quickly access them.

Lastly, RGB lighting is an extra feature found on some gaming keyboards. RGB stands for Red, Green and Blue, which are the main colours used in LEDs. RGB lighting can be used to create stunning effects on your keyboard, making it the perfect addition to any gaming setup.

Conclusion

When selecting a gaming keyboard, it is important to consider the type of switch, numpad, gaming mode, build quality and additional features. Additionally, keep in mind that price is not always an indication of quality, so compare prices before making a purchase. Consider the type of switch, numpad, gaming mode and other additional features that you may need, as well as the build quality and aesthetics of the gaming keyboard. Ultimately, pick a gaming keyboard that best suits your gaming preference and budget.

Rose Jackson is an expert in gaming-related technology. She has been researching and writing about game controllers, headsets, and other peripherals for the past two years. With a wealth of knowledge on the topic, she provides clear and detailed reviews to help gamers make informed decisions on the best accessories to buy. Rose also writes a regular column on the website that she contributes to which covers topics such as gaming industry news, upcoming releases, hardware in advent video gaming and more. She believes that having access to quality content and information can help everyone become better gamers.

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