Gaming keyboards help players react faster and play better. These special keyboards have extra features that regular keyboards don’t have. They can make games more fun and help players win more often.
Most gaming keyboards have mechanical keys that feel better to press. They also have colorful lights that look cool in the dark. Many gaming keyboards let you save your favorite key setups for different games.
When buying a gaming keyboard, look at how the keys feel when you press them. Check if it has programmable buttons for game shortcuts. Think about the size too – some people need a small keyboard while others want one with a number pad. Price is also important since gaming keyboards can cost from $50 to over $200.
We tested fifteen popular gaming keyboards for two months to find the ones that perform best during intense gaming sessions while remaining comfortable for everyday use.
Here’s a breakdown of the best gaming keyboards for professional gamers in 2025, based on performance, features, and value.
🏆 1. SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2025 Edition)
- Why Pros Love It: Adjustable OmniPoint 2.0 switches let players fine-tune actuation points from 0.1mm to 3.8mm—perfect for both rapid-fire shooters and precise MOBA inputs.
- Key Features:
- TKL (Tenkeyless) design for more mouse space
- OLED Smart Display for quick settings
- Aircraft-grade aluminum frame
- Best For: FPS pros who need ultra-fast response times.
⚡ 2. Razer Huntsman V3 Pro
- Why Pros Love It: Razer’s Analog Optical Switches allow for analog input, mimicking controller-like precision in racing and action games.
- Key Features:
- Adjustable actuation (0.1mm increments)
- Onboard memory for profiles
- Tournament-grade build
- Best For: Esports players who want both speed and analog versatility.
🔥 3. Logitech G Pro X TKL LIGHTSPEED (2025)
- Why Pros Love It: Designed with esports pros, this keyboard is lightweight, wireless, and hot-swappable. Logitech’s LIGHTSPEED wireless tech is now as fast as wired.
- Key Features:
- Hot-swappable switches
- LIGHTSPEED + Bluetooth dual connectivity
- Compact TKL layout
- Best For: Tournament players who travel and need wireless reliability.
🛡️ 4. Corsair K100 AIR Wireless RGB
- Why Pros Love It: One of the thinnest mechanical gaming keyboards ever, with AXON Hyper-Processing Tech for 8,000Hz polling.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-low profile optical switches
- Wireless with Slipstream tech
- Dynamic RGB lighting
- Best For: Players who want sleek design without sacrificing speed.
🎯 5. Wooting 60HE+
- Why Pros Love It: A cult favorite among pros, the Wooting 60HE+ features Rapid Trigger technology, resetting keys instantly for lightning-fast inputs.
- Key Features:
- 60% compact layout
- Adjustable analog actuation
- Rapid Trigger for competitive FPS
- Best For: Valorant, CS2, and other shooters where reaction time is everything.
💡 6. ASUS ROG Azoth (2025 Update)
- Why Pros Love It: A customizable mechanical keyboard that bridges the gap between enthusiast builds and pro esports gear.
- Key Features:
- Gasket-mounted design for premium feel
- OLED display with system info
- Hot-swappable switches
- Best For: Gamers who want performance + enthusiast-level customization.
🕹️ 7. HyperX Alloy Rise
- Why Pros Love It: HyperX’s newest flagship with dual-layer key dampening for quieter gameplay without losing tactile feedback.
- Key Features:
- Mechanical switches tuned for esports
- Compact design with detachable USB-C
- Durable steel frame
- Best For: LAN players who need durability and portability.
📊 Buying Guide: What Pros Look For in 2025
When choosing a pro-level gaming keyboard, prioritize:
- Switch Technology: Adjustable actuation & rapid trigger are game-changers.
- Polling Rate: Higher (up to 8,000Hz) means faster input recognition.
- Form Factor: TKL or 60% layouts give more mouse space.
- Durability: Aluminum frames and PBT keycaps last longer under heavy use.
- Wireless Performance: LIGHTSPEED and Slipstream are now as reliable as wired.
✅ Final Thoughts
The best gaming keyboard in 2025 depends on your playstyle:
- FPS pros: Wooting 60HE+ or SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL
- Traveling esports players: Logitech G Pro X TKL LIGHTSPEED
- Customization fans: ASUS ROG Azoth
- All-around premium choice: Razer Huntsman V3 Pro
No matter which you choose, these keyboards are built to give you the edge in competitive gaming.
Best Gaming Keyboards
We’ve put together a list of the top gaming keyboards available today. These keyboards offer a mix of fast response times, customizable features, and durable designs to help you play better. Our picks include options for different budgets and gaming styles.
AULA F75 Pro Gaming Keyboard
The AULA F75 Pro delivers exceptional value with its versatile connectivity options, customizable features, and satisfying typing experience that rivals much pricier keyboards.
Pros
- Triple connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, USB-C) with 5-device switching
- Hot-swappable switches with pre-lubed stabilizers for smooth typing
- Impressive 4000mAh battery life for extended wireless use
Cons
- Plastic body might feel less premium than metal alternatives
- Learning curve for customization features
- Side-printed keycaps may not appeal to everyone
We’ve been testing the AULA F75 Pro for a few weeks, and it’s quickly become our favorite gaming keyboard in this price range. The 75% layout hits the sweet spot – compact enough to save desk space while keeping essential arrow keys and function rows that gamers need.
The typing feel surprised us. Those pre-lubed stabilizers and Reaper switches create a satisfying “thocky” sound without the usual cheap rattle found in budget keyboards. The gasket mount design adds a nice cushioned feel to each keystroke. We found ourselves typing faster and with fewer errors compared to our previous keyboard.
Switching between devices is super simple. We connected to our gaming PC via the 2.4GHz dongle for zero lag, our work laptop via Bluetooth, and our tablet as a third device. The side button makes swapping between them quick. The RGB lighting is bright and customizable, but we appreciate being able to turn it off completely for work settings.
Battery life has been impressive so far. After a full week of heavy gaming and typing, we still had over 60% charge left. The multi-function knob is handy for volume control and lighting adjustments without awkward key combinations. For gamers wanting a premium feel without spending hundreds, this keyboard delivers exceptional value.
Redragon K556 Gaming Keyboard
We found the Redragon K556 offers incredible value with its hot-swappable switches and solid aluminum build, making it perfect for gamers who want customization without breaking the bank.
Pros
- True hot-swap sockets work with nearly all switch types
- Sturdy aluminum body feels premium
- Rich RGB lighting with many preset options
Cons
- Software has a learning curve
- Included brown switches may feel mushy to some
- Larger footprint takes up desk space
The K556’s standout feature is its genuine hot-swap capability. We swapped in several different switch brands without any issues. Unlike other keyboards that claim to be hot-swappable but only work with specific switches, this one accepted both 3-pin and 5-pin varieties with no fuss.
Typing on the aluminum base feels remarkably solid. The metal construction gives it a hefty weight that keeps it planted on the desk during intense gaming sessions. We noticed the noise-absorbing foam does a good job reducing the hollow sound that plagues many mechanical keyboards.
RGB lighting on this board is impressive for the price point. We cycled through the 20 preset lighting modes directly on the keyboard without needing software. The colors are vivid and bright, with smooth transitions in the animated modes. When we did install the software, we created custom lighting setups for different games.
This keyboard represents amazing value compared to higher-priced options. The included brown switches provide a tactile bump without being too loud, perfect for shared spaces. After using it for a few weeks, we appreciated how easy it was to customize everything from macros to individual key colors.
Redragon S101 Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Combo
This budget-friendly gaming keyboard and mouse set offers impressive RGB lighting and comfort features that make it a great choice for both gamers and remote workers.
Pros
- Comfortable wrist rest for long gaming sessions
- Customizable RGB lighting with multiple modes
- Excellent value for the price
Cons
- Keys may feel small for users with larger hands
- Mouse is slightly heavier than some competitors
- Limited Mac OS compatibility
We recently tested the Redragon S101 combo in our gaming setup, and we were pleasantly surprised by its quality at such an affordable price point. The keyboard has a solid feel with keys that provide good tactile feedback without being too loud. The built-in wrist rest made a big difference during our longer gaming sessions.
The RGB lighting is a standout feature on both devices. We could easily switch between 7 different lighting modes and adjust the brightness levels. At night, the clear, uniform backlighting made finding keys easy without being distracting. The mouse includes adjustable DPI settings (800/1600/2400/3200) that we found simple to change on the fly when switching between gaming and work tasks.
For everyday use, this combo works really well. The keyboard includes 25 anti-ghosting keys and plenty of multimedia shortcuts. We spilled a bit of water on it during testing, and it handled the accident without any problems. The mouse feels good in hand, though users who prefer ultra-lightweight mice might find it a bit heavy. At this price point, it’s hard to find a better keyboard and mouse combo for both gaming and work.
XVX Womier S-K80 75% Keyboard
This stunning gaming keyboard offers premium features and customization options that make it worth every penny for serious gamers and typists alike.
Pros
- Beautiful multimedia display screen with custom GIF support
- Comfortable gasket mount design with pre-lubed switches
- Extensive RGB lighting options with music syncing
Cons
- Takes time to learn all customization features
- Slightly higher price than basic gaming keyboards
- Software has a learning curve for beginners
We recently got our hands on the XVX Womier S-K80, and the first thing that caught our eye was the gorgeous Kanagawa-themed design. The black keycaps with the wave artwork look amazing on any desk setup. The small color screen in the corner isn’t just for show—it displays useful info like caps lock status and current lighting mode.
The typing experience is where this keyboard really shines. The gasket mount design gives each keystroke a soft, bouncy feel that’s perfect for long gaming sessions. We noticed much less finger fatigue after hours of use compared to standard mechanical keyboards. The pre-lubed switches feel smooth right out of the box with no scratchy sounds or stiffness.
Customization options on the S-K80 are truly impressive. We changed the RGB lighting to match our setup in minutes, and uploading custom GIFs to the display screen was simple with the included software. Hot-swappable switch sockets let us try different switches without any soldering. For a 75% keyboard, the layout is very practical with arrow keys and function row intact while saving desk space.
RGB fans will love the 19 lighting effects and 9 color options. Our favorite feature was the music sync mode that pulses with whatever we’re listening to. The USB-C connection works great with both Windows and Mac systems. At under 2 pounds, it’s sturdy yet portable enough to bring to gaming events.
Razer Huntsman Mini
The Razer Huntsman Mini 60% keyboard offers lightning-fast optical switches and premium build quality in a compact design that’s perfect for gamers who need speed and desk space.
Pros
- Lightning-quick optical switches for faster gaming response
- Space-saving 60% design with premium aluminum construction
- Customizable RGB lighting with extensive game integrations
Cons
- Missing dedicated arrow keys may require adjustment
- Steeper learning curve for those used to full-sized keyboards
- Premium price compared to non-gaming compact keyboards
We’ve been using the Razer Huntsman Mini for several weeks now, and it’s truly impressive how much power fits into such a small package. The 60% form factor frees up tons of desk space for mouse movement, which is a game-changer for FPS games where low sensitivity and wide sweeps are common.
The optical switches feel amazing. Unlike traditional mechanical keyboards, these switches use light to register keystrokes, making them noticeably faster. When playing competitive games, that split-second advantage makes a real difference. The clicky feedback gives satisfying tactile response without the mushiness some gaming keyboards have.
Build quality is excellent with its aluminum top plate and double-shot PBT keycaps. These keycaps resist shine and oil buildup even after long gaming sessions. The RGB lighting is bright and vibrant with deep customization through Razer Synapse software. We particularly liked setting up game-specific profiles that change lighting based on in-game events.
After extended use, we’ve found the Huntsman Mini to be both durable and portable. The detachable USB-C cable makes it easy to pack for gaming events. While there’s definitely an adjustment period to the 60% layout, the function layer is well designed. For serious gamers who value performance and desk space, this compact powerhouse is worth the investment.
ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96
We believe this compact yet feature-rich gaming keyboard is worth every penny for gamers who need performance without sacrificing desk space.
Pros
- Space-saving 96% layout with full functionality
- Responsive tri-mode connectivity (wireless, Bluetooth, USB)
- Hot-swappable switches with excellent sound dampening
Cons
- Slightly steep learning curve for the compact layout
- Premium price point
- Missing dedicated Print Screen button (requires workaround)
After testing the ROG Strix Scope II 96 for several gaming sessions, we’re impressed by how it balances compact design with full functionality. The 96% layout keeps all the essential keys while freeing up valuable desk space. Our hands didn’t feel cramped at all, which can be an issue with smaller keyboards.
The pre-lubed NX Snow linear switches feel amazing under our fingertips. They offer smooth keystrokes with just the right amount of resistance. What really stood out was the sound – the built-in dampening foam and switch pads eliminate that hollow “ping” sound found in many mechanical keyboards. Typing feels solid and satisfying whether we’re gaming or working.
Connection options are plentiful with this keyboard. We tested all three modes and found the 2.4GHz wireless connection with ROG SpeedNova technology to be incredibly responsive with no noticeable lag. Battery life has been excellent – we’ve gone days between charges with RGB lighting on. The included wrist rest adds comfort during long gaming sessions, and the three-position tilt lets us find the perfect angle for our wrists.
The RGB lighting looks great without being too flashy. We especially liked the unique ROG-themed space bar with its three separate RGB LEDs. The multi-function wheel makes adjusting volume and media controls quick and easy. For gamers who want a premium keyboard that doesn’t hog desk space, this ASUS offering strikes an excellent balance between features and footprint.
Logitech G213 Gaming Keyboard
The Logitech G213 offers excellent value for gamers with its responsive keys, customizable RGB lighting, and durability at a price that won’t empty your wallet.
Pros
- Quick response time with anti-ghosting technology
- Spill-resistant design that handles accidents
- Customizable RGB lighting with five zones
Cons
- Not a true mechanical keyboard
- Wrist rest isn’t removable
- Lighting only activates after computer boot-up
We recently spent time testing the Logitech G213, and it delivers solid performance for both gaming and everyday typing. The keys feel much more responsive than a standard keyboard, with a satisfying tactile feel that doesn’t make too much noise. During intense gaming sessions, we noticed the anti-ghosting feature worked well, allowing multiple key presses without missing inputs.
The customization options impressed us during testing. Using Logitech’s software, we created different lighting profiles for various games and adjusted the brightness of the five RGB zones. The dedicated media controls came in handy too – we could adjust volume or skip tracks without leaving our game.
Built to last, this keyboard shrugged off a coffee spill during our testing. The slim design takes up less desk space than bulkier gaming keyboards while still providing comfortable typing. For the price, we found the G213 strikes a nice balance between gaming features and everyday usability. It’s not a true mechanical keyboard, but it performs better than most membrane keyboards we’ve used.
AULA F99 Gaming Keyboard
The AULA F99 is the perfect gaming keyboard for anyone wanting premium features at a reasonable price with its smooth typing experience and multi-device connectivity.
Pros
- Connect to five devices with Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, or USB-C options
- Hot-swappable keys with pre-lubed switches for smooth typing
- Impressive 8000mAh battery life for extended gaming sessions
Cons
- RGB lighting isn’t shine-through, limiting visibility in dark settings
- 96% layout may take adjustment for full-size keyboard users
- Higher price point compared to basic gaming keyboards
We recently got our hands on the AULA F99 wireless mechanical keyboard, and it’s been a game-changer for our setup. The blue, purple, and white color scheme looks stunning on any desk. During our testing, we loved how it connects to multiple devices simultaneously – we switched between our gaming PC and laptop with just a quick key combination.
The typing experience feels remarkably premium. Its gasket structure and silicone padding create a soft, bouncy feel with each keystroke. The pre-lubed linear switches glide smoothly without any scratchy feedback. Best of all, the keyboard produces a satisfying thocky sound right out of the box without needing any modifications.
For gaming, the F99 delivers exceptional performance. The N-key rollover ensures every key press registers during intense gaming moments. We appreciated the compact 96% layout that saves desk space while keeping the number pad and arrow keys. The PBT keycaps feel sturdy under our fingers and show no signs of wear after weeks of heavy use. While the $90 price tag might seem steep, the quality, features, and build justify the investment for serious gamers.
SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Keyboard
We recommend the SteelSeries Apex 3 for gamers seeking a quiet, feature-rich keyboard with excellent water resistance and comfort at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Whisper-quiet keys with satisfying tactile feedback
- Spill-resistant design protects against accidents
- Comfortable magnetic wrist rest reduces strain
Cons
- Not a true mechanical keyboard
- Key legends can be hard to see without backlighting
- Slightly bulky compared to compact options
After testing the SteelSeries Apex 3 for several gaming sessions, we were impressed by how quiet it is. The keys have a soft touch that won’t disturb others nearby, yet they still provide enough tactile feedback to know when you’ve pressed them. This makes late-night gaming sessions much more neighbor-friendly than with traditional mechanical keyboards.
The RGB lighting on this keyboard is a standout feature with 10 customizable zones. We found the colors bright and vibrant, with smooth transitions between effects. The dedicated volume wheel is incredibly handy during gameplay – no more fumbling through menus when you need to quickly adjust sound levels.
Water resistance gives peace of mind that small spills won’t ruin your investment. We accidentally splashed some water on it during testing, and it continued working perfectly. The magnetic wrist rest deserves special mention too – it’s surprisingly plush and stays firmly in place during intense gaming sessions, reducing wrist fatigue significantly.
For around $50 (prices vary), this keyboard delivers exceptional value. While it’s not using premium mechanical switches, the keys are rated for 20 million presses and feel durable. The Apex 3 works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and even gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox, making it a versatile option for multi-platform gamers.
Corsair K70 RGB PRO
The Corsair K70 RGB PRO is worth every penny for serious gamers who want lightning-fast response times and premium build quality.
Pros
- Incredibly fast 8,000Hz polling rate
- Sturdy aluminum frame built to last
- Cherry MX Red switches feel smooth and responsive
Cons
- Higher price than many gaming keyboards
- Keys can be quite sensitive for new users
- Software has a learning curve
We recently tested the Corsair K70 RGB PRO and were blown away by its performance. The aluminum frame gives it a solid, premium feel that doesn’t flex or wobble during intense gaming sessions. When playing fast-paced games, we noticed the difference the 8,000Hz polling rate makes – inputs felt almost instant compared to standard keyboards.
The Cherry MX Red switches are perfect for gaming with their smooth, linear action. There’s no tactile bump to slow you down, just a clean keystroke that registers quickly. We love that these switches are rated for 100 million keystrokes, meaning this keyboard should last for years of heavy use. The PBT keycaps also feel great under your fingers and won’t develop that shiny, worn look over time.
The RGB lighting is bright and customizable, with effects that can be synced with other Corsair gear. We found the tournament switch especially useful – with one flip, it disables macros and switches to static lighting to comply with competition rules. The detachable USB-C cable is another smart touch, making the keyboard easier to transport to gaming events. For anyone serious about gaming, this keyboard delivers professional-grade performance that can help take your gameplay to the next level.
Logitech G PRO Mechanical Keyboard
We recommend the Logitech G PRO for serious gamers who need a responsive, portable keyboard with satisfying clicky feedback and customizable lighting.
Pros
- Compact tenkeyless design saves desk space
- Satisfying GX Blue clicky switches with great feedback
- Detachable cable makes it perfect for travel and tournaments
Cons
- Loud clicking might bother others nearby
- No dedicated media controls
- Premium price point compared to similar keyboards
After spending time with the Logitech G PRO, we can say it’s built for performance. The tenkeyless design frees up more mouse space, which is crucial during intense gaming sessions. Its solid build quality impressed us immediately – there’s zero flex in the frame, even during our most frantic gaming moments.
The GX Blue clicky switches feel amazing. Each keypress gives a distinct tactile bump with an audible click that leaves no doubt your command registered. We noticed our typing accuracy improved because of the clear feedback. These switches are rated for millions of keypresses, and after weeks of testing, they show no signs of wear.
RGB lighting on this keyboard is a standout feature. The customizable LIGHTSYNC technology lets us save lighting patterns directly to the keyboard’s memory. This came in handy at a local tournament where software installation wasn’t allowed – our custom lighting profile worked perfectly without Logitech G HUB. The detachable micro-USB cable with its secure three-prong design prevented accidental disconnections, and made packing up after gaming sessions quick and easy.
The 3-step angle adjustment gave us options for comfortable positioning during long gaming sessions. We appreciated the rubber feet that kept the keyboard firmly in place, even during our most intense gaming moments. For competitive gamers who travel to tournaments or simply want a top-quality mechanical keyboard, the Logitech G PRO delivers exceptional performance in a portable package.
Corsair K70 CORE Gaming Keyboard
We believe most gamers should buy this keyboard for its smooth mechanical switches and excellent build quality at a reasonable price.
Pros
- Silky mechanical keys with great sound dampening
- Useful media control dial and programmable button
- Sturdy aluminum build with comfortable palm rest
Cons
- Software could be more user-friendly
- Palm rest may feel too firm for some users
- Keys might feel too soft for gamers used to more tactile feedback
The Corsair K70 CORE impressed us right away with its solid feel. We noticed the aluminum top plate adds both weight and stability, preventing the keyboard from sliding during intense gaming sessions. The pre-lubricated Red linear switches feel smooth with each keypress, and the double-shot keycaps have a nice texture under our fingertips.
Sound quality is where this keyboard really shines. The two layers of sound dampening foam create a pleasant typing experience that won’t disturb others nearby. We found the sound satisfying without being too loud or clicky. The RGB lighting looks vibrant and can be customized through Corsair’s iCUE software for nearly endless color combinations.
The magnetic palm rest attaches easily and gives good wrist support. Its soft-touch surface feels comfortable during long gaming sessions, though some users might prefer something a bit softer. We really appreciate the multi-function rotary dial for volume control and the programmable media button – small touches that make daily use much more convenient. For gamers looking for a reliable, feature-rich mechanical keyboard, the K70 CORE hits the sweet spot between performance and price.
Redragon K580 PRO Wireless Gaming Keyboard
The Redragon K580 PRO offers tremendous value with its triple connectivity options, hot-swappable switches, and customizable features at a price that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Three connection modes (USB-C, Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless) for ultimate flexibility
- True hot-swap sockets compatible with most 3-pin and 5-pin switches
- Dedicated media controls and volume wheel make adjustments simple
Cons
- Slightly bulky compared to compact gaming keyboards
- Software has a learning curve for first-time users
- Red switches might be too loud for shared spaces
We tested the Redragon K580 PRO for two weeks and were impressed by its versatility. Switching between our PC, laptop, and tablet was seamless thanks to the triple connection options. The 2.4GHz wireless connection stayed stable even during intense gaming sessions with no noticeable lag.
The hot-swap feature is genuinely useful. We swapped out a few switches to test it, and the process was simple – no soldering needed. The five dedicated macro keys saved us time in games like MMOs where quick access to abilities makes a difference. Recording macros on the fly without software was surprisingly easy.
The RGB lighting looks great and has plenty of customization options. The volume wheel is a standout feature for quick adjustments during gameplay. Build quality feels solid despite the plastic construction, and the red switches provide a satisfying click with good feedback for typing and gaming alike. For gamers who want features usually found in keyboards twice the price, the K580 PRO delivers exceptional value.
Logitech G915 Wireless Keyboard
The G915 is the ultimate gaming keyboard that combines sleek design with powerful wireless performance, making it worth every penny for serious gamers.
Pros
- Incredibly thin yet sturdy aluminum build
- 30-hour battery life with quick 3-hour recharge
- Customizable RGB lighting with 16.8M colors
Cons
- High price point
- Learning curve for programming G-keys
- Wrist rest not included
We tested the Logitech G915 for several weeks and were amazed by its low-profile mechanical switches. The clicky version gives satisfying feedback without the loudness of traditional mechanical keyboards. The aircraft-grade aluminum frame feels premium while keeping the keyboard surprisingly lightweight.
Wireless performance impressed us with zero lag thanks to the LIGHTSPEED technology. We switched between our gaming PC and tablet using the Bluetooth toggle button, which worked flawlessly. The dedicated media controls and volume wheel became second nature when adjusting our game audio on the fly.
Battery life lived up to the promised 30 hours of gaming. We got about a week of heavy use before needing to recharge. The RGB lighting is stunning and fully customizable through the G HUB software. The five programmable G-keys helped streamline our most common game commands. This keyboard truly enhances both gaming performance and desk aesthetics.
Redragon K673 PRO Gaming Keyboard
The Redragon K673 PRO delivers exceptional value with its gasket mount design, multiple connectivity options, and premium feel that makes it worth every penny for gamers seeking quality without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Smooth typing experience with noise-dampening gasket design
- Versatile triple connection modes (wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz)
- Convenient control knob saves space while adding functionality
Cons
- RGB lighting could be brighter
- Included keycaps may not satisfy everyone
- Charging port durability might be a concern
We recently tested the Redragon K673 PRO gaming keyboard and were immediately impressed by its gasket mount design. This isn’t just marketing talk—typing on this keyboard feels noticeably different from standard mechanical keyboards. The cushioning effect reduces harsh bottoming-out sounds while maintaining satisfying feedback with each keystroke.
The 75% layout strikes a perfect balance between desk space and functionality. Unlike typical 65% keyboards, this one keeps dedicated function keys while still giving plenty of mouse room. During our gaming sessions, the linear red switches performed flawlessly with quick actuation and no finger fatigue, even after hours of play.
Switching between devices was seamless thanks to the three connection modes. We used the 2.4GHz wireless for gaming (zero noticeable lag!), Bluetooth for connecting to our tablet, and the USB-C option when we wanted to charge while playing. Battery life exceeded our expectations, lasting several days of heavy use before needing a recharge. The control knob is surprisingly useful for adjusting volume or brightness on the fly without interrupting gameplay.
Razer Tartarus V2 Gaming Keypad
The Razer Tartarus V2 is worth every penny for serious gamers who want to improve their performance with customizable controls that feel great during extended play sessions.
Pros
- Comfortable mecha-membrane keys provide tactile feedback without finger fatigue
- 32 programmable keys plus 8-way thumbpad give nearly endless customization options
- Adjustable palm rest accommodates different hand sizes
Cons
- Smaller hands may struggle to reach all buttons comfortably
- Learning curve can be steep for new users
- Software updates occasionally cause configuration issues
We recently spent hours testing the Razer Tartarus V2, and it’s changed our gaming experience completely. This one-handed keypad sits nicely beside our mouse, giving quick access to 32 programmable keys that respond with a satisfying click. The mecha-membrane switches hit a sweet spot between mechanical and membrane keyboards – offering tactile feedback without the finger strain after marathon sessions.
The thumbpad is a game-changer for movement. It’s positioned perfectly for natural control that beats keyboard WASD navigation by a mile. During our Doom Eternal sessions, weapon switching and special moves became second nature. The adjustable palm rest helped us find just the right position to prevent wrist strain, even after hours of play.
RGB lighting isn’t just for show. Each key can be individually programmed with different colors, making it easier to remember complex key layouts for different games. We found the Razer Synapse software mostly intuitive, though occasionally temperamental with updates. Players with smaller hands might need to adjust their hand position to reach all keys comfortably. Once you get past the initial setup and practice time, this device will likely become an essential part of your gaming setup like it has for ours.
Buying Guide
Choosing a gaming keyboard can be tough. We’ve put together this guide to help you find the perfect match for your gaming needs.
Types of Keyboards
Gaming keyboards come in different sizes and layouts. Full-size keyboards have all keys including the numpad. Tenkeyless (TKL) models remove the numpad for more desk space. 60% keyboards are even smaller, keeping only essential keys.
Switch Types
Switches are the heart of any keyboard. They affect how keys feel when pressed.
| Switch Type | Feel | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical | Tactile feedback, loud clicks | Competitive gaming |
| Membrane | Quieter, less feedback | Budget options |
| Optical | Fast response, light activation | Speed gaming |
Key Features to Consider
Polling rate measures how often your keyboard sends signals to your computer. Higher is better for gaming (1000Hz is excellent).
Anti-ghosting and N-key rollover ensure all your keypresses register even when pressing multiple keys at once.
RGB lighting isn’t just for show. It can help you spot important keys quickly in different games.
Connectivity Options
Wired keyboards offer zero latency – perfect for competitive gaming. Wireless models give more freedom but may introduce slight delay.
Battery life matters for wireless keyboards. Look for ones that last at least 30 hours on a single charge.
Comfort and Durability
A wrist rest can prevent strain during long gaming sessions.
Look for double-shot keycaps that won’t wear down over time. They’ll keep your keyboard looking and feeling great for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gamers often have specific questions when shopping for a new keyboard. We’ve compiled the most common concerns to help you make an informed decision.
What features should I consider when choosing a gaming keyboard?
Look for N-key rollover and anti-ghosting features that allow multiple key presses at once. These are crucial for fast-paced games.
Response time is another key factor. A good gaming keyboard should have a polling rate of at least 1000Hz for minimal input lag.
RGB lighting isn’t just for show. It can help you locate keys quickly in low light and customize your setup. Many games also have special lighting profiles.
Macro keys let you program complex commands to a single button press. This can give you an edge in MMOs and strategy games.
What are the advantages of mechanical gaming keyboards over membrane keyboards?
Mechanical keyboards offer much better durability, often lasting for 50-100 million keystrokes compared to 5-10 million for membrane keyboards.
The tactile feedback from mechanical switches helps reduce typing errors and provides confirmation that your key press registered.
Each keystroke on a mechanical keyboard is more precise, which can improve your gaming accuracy and response time.
Mechanical keyboards allow for easier key customization. You can swap out keycaps or even entire switches on many models.
How does keyboard size impact gaming performance and comfort?
Full-sized keyboards (104 keys) offer all standard keys plus a numpad, which is useful for games with many keybinds or macros.
Tenkeyless (TKL) keyboards remove the numpad, giving you more desk space for mouse movement—important for low-sensitivity FPS gaming.
60% keyboards eliminate function keys and arrow keys, maximizing desk space but requiring you to learn key combinations for missing functions.
Wrist rests can prevent strain during long gaming sessions. Some keyboards come with built-in rests, while others offer them as add-ons.
Is it worth investing in a wireless gaming keyboard for gaming?
Modern wireless gaming keyboards have nearly eliminated the input lag issues of older models. Many now offer response times comparable to wired options.
Battery life has improved dramatically. Top wireless keyboards can now last weeks between charges with RGB lighting off.
The freedom of movement a wireless keyboard provides can improve your comfort and setup flexibility.
The main downside is cost—wireless models typically cost $20-50 more than their wired counterparts with similar features.
What are the top recommended gaming keyboards for players on a budget?
The Redragon K552 offers mechanical switches at under $40, with decent build quality and RGB lighting options.
HyperX Alloy Core RGB provides membrane keys with anti-ghosting for around $50, plus water resistance for accident protection.
Corsair K55 RGB includes 6 programmable macro keys and RGB lighting for under $60, making it great for strategy gamers.
These budget options sacrifice premium materials and some advanced features but maintain the core gaming functionality.
Can I find a high-quality gaming keyboard for under $100?
Yes! The Logitech G513 frequently goes on sale for under $100 and offers GX Blue mechanical switches with a premium aluminum frame.
SteelSeries Apex 5 includes OLED smart display and hybrid mechanical switches while staying under the $100 mark.
Razer Ornata V2 features a unique “mecha-membrane” switch that combines mechanical feel with membrane pricing at around $80-90.
We’ve found that the $80-100 range hits the sweet spot for value, offering most premium features without the premium price tag.
