keyboards

Top 10 Best Keyboards for Gaming in 2021

by Perfect Tech Reviewers

Having so much variety of keyboards from popular brands can make it overwhelming for gamers to find a perfect match. Even if you have narrowed down the manufacturer options, keyboards come with different connectivity types, layouts, and key switches.

For this, you first will have to separate the needs and wants. It depends on your skill set, budget limitations, and a number of features. Still, confused about how to find the best keyboard for gaming and which one to buy? Follow this detailed review and buying guide. So, let’s get in and choose wisely.

At A Glance:

Best pick

Top-Performing Gaming Keyboard

 Corsair K100 RGB Gaming Keyboard

Corsair K100 RGB Gaming Keyboard

RGB light is sharp

Highly durable keys

Easy to navigate

Responsive optical switches

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Staff Pick

Ultimate Gaming Keyboard

Logitech G915 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Logitech G915 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Better tactile feedback

Respond almost immediately

Fast wireless connection

Amazing RGB colors

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Budget Pick

Professional Gaming Keyboard

G.SKILL KM360 Mechanical Keyboard

G.SKILL KM360 Mechanical Keyboard

Great value for money

Durable and lightweight

Great for traveling

Detachable wrist res

View on Amazon

Our Recommendations 10 Best Keyboards For Gaming

Award Modal Design Retailer
Top-Performing Gaming Keyboard Corsair K100 RGB Gaming Keyboard  Corsair K100 RGB Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Ultimate Gaming Keyboard Logitech G915 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Logitech G915 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Elite Gaming Keyboard Glorious PC Gaming Race Keyboard Glorious PC Gaming Race Keyboard View on amazon
Advanced Gaming Keyboard Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Superior Gaming Keyboard ROCCAT Vulcan TKL Pro Gaming Keyboard ROCCAT Vulcan TKL Pro Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Best-in-Class Gaming Keyboard HyperX Alloy Origins Gaming Keyboard HyperX Alloy Origins Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Professional Gaming Keyboard G.SKILL KM360 Mechanical Keyboard G.SKILL KM360 Mechanical Keyboard View on amazon
Premium Gaming Keyboard SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Ultimate Gaming Keyboard Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro Gaming Keyboard Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Expert Gaming Keyboard Patriot Viper V765 Gaming Keyboard Patriot Viper V765 Gaming Keyboard View on amazon

Corsair K100 RGB Gaming Keyboard

Best pick  Corsair K100 RGB Gaming Keyboard View on amazon

Brand: Corsair | Connectivity Technology: Wired | Number of Keys: 110 | Backlight Color Support: RGB | Key Switches: Mechanical

Corsair has been a well-reputed brand for its functional and practical gaming equipment. This is partly why the first pick for my list of the best keyboards for gaming is this Corsair. It features a full-size layout with all the necessary keys to maximize its utility. It is incredibly good-looking, which is always a plus.

The first thing that attracted me to this keyboard was its layout. It is divided into three sections with 44-LightEdge sections. Everything is explained in detail in the manual. You can use these keys for media modification or regular use. After using it, I would say it is quite smart and easy to understand.

Moreover, all the switches are optical mechanical, which means they are highly responsive and offer better tactile feedback. I experienced no lag, even during long and intense gaming sessions. All the keys are individually backlit. Here, you can explore multiple personalization options on Corsair iCUE software.

A gamer friend recommended this Corsair K100 to me, and investing in this has been the wisest decision. Now that I have used it for a long time, it wouldn’t be wrong to say it is highly responsive and easy to handle. Also, I would say the iCUE software is easy to navigate for media and RGB modifications.

The Pros

RGB light is sharp

Highly durable keys

Easy to navigate

Responsive optical switches

The Cons

Actuation speed can be improved

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Logitech G915 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Staff Pick Logitech G915 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard View on amazon

Brand: Logitech G | Connectivity Technology: USB Wireless | Number of Keys: 90 | Backlight Color Support: RGB | Technology RGB Control: LightSync

Now that you have learned all the basic tricks on your full-size keyboard and want to upgrade to a handy yet practical alternative for your small PC, I am here with this Logitech G915. It is the thinnest keyboard out there that definitely cuts down extra weight. It also has a shiny finish that looks really appealing.

The best thing about this keyboard is its key switches. It has optical keys with an actuation distance of 1.5mm. This is quite fast for a good gaming experience. I have used them for some fast-paced games and noticed no lag at all. Rather, it was able to immediately recognize the keystroke, which is a bonus for the price.

This is a wireless gaming keyboard with Bluetooth technology that uses a LightSpeed receiver. It maintains a connection of 800 Hz, which is considerably fast. It further comes with smart RGB light that can be personalized using the Logitech Color software. You can set different colors for individual keys.

Finally, the runner-up for my list of gaming keyboards is the Logitech G915. The reason why I have picked it is the highly responsive optical switches that help you with a fast-paced gaming experience. Moreover, it comes with smart RGB colors that can be personalized. I loved them on display with media playing.

The Pros

Better tactile feedback

Respond almost immediately

Fast wireless connection

Amazing RGB colors

The Cons

The keys are tricky to clean

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Glorious PC Gaming Race Keyboard

Glorious PC Gaming Race Keyboard View on amazon

Brand: Glorious | Connectivity Technology: USB | Number of Keys: 104 | Backlight Color Support: RGB | Key Switches: Mechanical

Here comes yet another best keyboard for gaming from Glorious Modular, all credit to its detailed layout and responsive mechanical switches. This board has the simplest yet performance-oriented layout that delivers well for intense gaming sessions. After using this, I would say it has a noticeable tactile edge.

Starting off with the layout, it has a full-size design with linear mechanical keys. These keys include media and hot switches designated for different functions. Here, the manufacturers have added Gateron keys that are specifically designed for tactile performance. I find them really fast for intense games.

Similarly, all the keys are made up of a combination of aluminum and ABS plastic. This is quite durable and is coated with thick metal that makes sure you are not bothered by spillages. It further comes with a knitted cable that can be connected to two devices at a time. It has a metal top, making it pretty strong.

The Glorious PC gaming keyboard is a great choice for anyone who spends long hours of their day gaming. It features multiple functional keys, including programmable keys, media keys, volume buttons, dial buttons, and so on. This helps gamers personalize the experience and makes it fast-paced.

The Pros

Includes key switches removers

It is affordable

Incredibly fast keys

Durable and light

The Cons

Takes time to clean

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Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard

Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard View on amazon

Brand: Razer | Connectivity Technology: USB | Number of Keys: 103 | Backlight Color Support: RGB | Key Switches: Analog Optical Switches

Razer is yet another brand famous for its quality gaming accessories. And this one is no exception, all thanks to its ergonomic design and unique analog key switches. It is best known for the cutting-edge technology that enhances the key’s tactile feedback. Also, it has a satin finish that adds to its visual appeal.

Speaking of the design, it is pretty thin and light, which means that you can simply carry it around with you while traveling. It also works well for space-saving PC setups. Although it has a full-size layout, I find the space enough for mouse movement and wrist rest. At any point, I didn’t find it uncomfortable.

Now, for performance, the manufacturers have used Razer’s patented analog keys. These keys are powered by cutting-edge technology that has an incredible tactical response and quick movement. It has an actuation distance of 1.5mm that delivers well. However, I would advise you to press the keys harder.

Final thoughts, this Razer Huntsman V2 has been an all-time favorite for me, all credit to its full-size layout and compact size. I usually prefer handy keyboards, and this one is a perfect option for that. Similarly, the analog optical switches are extremely responsive and offer better tactile feedback.

The Pros

Analog optical switches

Includes a removable cable

Comfortable wrist rest

Personalized RGB effects

The Cons

Light brightness can be improved

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ROCCAT Vulcan TKL Pro Gaming Keyboard

ROCCAT Vulcan TKL Pro Gaming Keyboard View on amazon

Brand: ROCCAT | Connectivity Technology: USB Type-C | Number of Keys: 88 | Backlight Color Support: RGB | Key Switches: Optical mechanical

Aesthetic keyboards have always been on my priority list, and this Roccat Vulcan is definitely one of them. It has a metal-like finish with fully RGB-lit key switches that immediately gets your attention. Not only this, it has a small form factor with highly responsive optical keys that makes it efficient and travel-friendly.

First of all, it has a ten-key-less design which means you have fewer keys and small size. So, you can easily carry it around in a suitcase. This also gives you extra space for mouse movement and a wide wrist rest. Moreover, all the keys are aluminum and have a PBT coating. This resists spills and dirt quite well.

When it comes to performance, this keyboard features optical, mechanical switches that are highly responsive. They have an actuation speed of light that immediately gets recognized and offers better tactile feedback. To personalize these keys, you have to hold, press the switch and modify it.

This Roccat Vulcan keyboard has been one of my favorite alternatives for tournaments that are in other states. This is all thanks to its travel-friendly, tenkeyless design that is small and can be packed in a suitcase easily. In addition, the optical switches are highly responsive and offer better tactile efficiency.

The Pros

Better tactile feedback

Vibrant RGB effects

Responsive key switches

Easy to personalize

The Cons

The sound of keys is odd

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HyperX Alloy Origins Gaming Keyboard

HyperX Alloy Origins Gaming Keyboard View on amazon

Brand: HyperX Alloy Origins | Connectivity Technology: USB Type-C | Number of Keys: 104 | Backlight Color Support: RGB | Key Switches: Optical mechanical | Switches: HyperX Blue Clicky

To explain this HyperX Alloy keyboard the best, I would say it is minimalist with all the necessary features available. The simplest layout best suits new gamers who are still learning how to utilize different keys for a fast-paced, smooth gaming process. Not only this, its all-black structure complements most PCs.

First of all, this keyboard has linear mechanical switches that are fast-paced and responsive. The keys are divided into three colors, red for speed, blue for tactile performance, and aqua is a hybrid between the two. Each key is individually backlit with RGB that looks appealing and can be personalized by gamers.

Speaking of the buildup quality, the manufacturers have used two aluminum plates. All the switches are sandwiched between them. This part is pretty durable and doesn’t let any moisture sit under the keycaps. It also has a plastic bottom, which may not be as reliable, although I haven’t noticed any damage yet.

This HyperX Alloy is undoubtedly one of the smartest keyboards I have used. This one is equipped with three categories of keys for response and tactile performance. After using it for a long time, I would say it has no lag at all, and it best suits all skill sets. And the fact that it looks appealing makes it of great value.

The Pros

High buildup quality

Smart keys layout

Bright, sharp backlight

Easy to clean

The Cons

It lacks media keys

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G.SKILL KM360 Mechanical Keyboard

Budget Pick G.SKILL KM360 Mechanical Keyboard View on amazon

Brand: G.Skill | Connectivity Technology: USB Type-C | Number of Keys: 87 | Backlight Color Support: Single color | Key Switches: Mechanical

If you want a max number of features at a mid-range price, I have this G Skill mechanical keyboard for you. It has the perfect little tenkeyless design for your travels. Also, it features the infamous Cherry MX switches that suit your budget and delivers incredibly well during long and intense gaming sessions.

To start off with the layout, this tenkeyless design has around 87 key switches, all made up of aluminum. They are highly durable and resist spills ideally. You can even pack it in a carry bag for trips. It further comes with a fairly long USB Type-C braided cable coated with metal that doesn’t get damaged easily.

Now, speaking of performance, this one comes with Cherry MX switches that are best known for their tactile performance. It has better actuation efficiency and immediately recognizes the keystroke. They are really clickiest and produce a satisfying popping sound. This is also why most gamers love this.

Final thoughts, the G Skill keyboard is the best-suited option for gamers who want premium features at a reasonable price. It is best known for its Cherry MX Red switches that are highly responsive and offer better tactile speed. Another good thing about this keyboard is its grayish-black color.

The Pros

Great value for money

Durable and lightweight

Great for traveling

Detachable wrist res

The Cons

No RGB effects included

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SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard View on amazon

Brand: SteelSeries | Connectivity Technology: USB | Number of Keys: 104 | Backlight Color Support: RGB | Wrist Rest: Detachable

If you have the money to go overboard for a personalized gaming experience, do give this SteelSeries Apex Pro a try. This keyboard is best known for its individual-key RGB lighting and smart OLED control screen. I particularly like this one, as it helped me adjust and modify multiple keys as per my utility.

The first thing to note about this model is its dedicated media keys. These come with an OLED screen with which you can control the brightness and functionality of these keys. I usually prefer setting each key for a gaming mode. So, when I am in the game, it is easy to switch between the game modes.

Speaking of the construction, this one has aluminum switches with a plastic stem. There is not much space between the stem and the caps, which means no dirt and water can seep under the keycaps. However, they are not as responsive. Also, it has a detachable wrist rest for long gaming hours.

Final thoughts, this Apex Pro has been best-selling for quite some time now, and there is a reason for it. The smart RGB lighting and dedicated media keys give it an edge over competitors. It also has smart OLED controls that are pretty understandable, even for someone who is new to gaming keyboards.

The Pros

Smart key controls

Durable and light

All keys have RGB

Resist spills ideally

The Cons

The keys are not as responsive

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Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro Gaming Keyboard

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro Gaming Keyboard View on amazon

Brand: Razer BlackWidow | Connectivity Technology: USB | Number of Keys: 104 | Backlight Color Support: RGB | Key Switches: Silent Linear Mechanical

Coming from Razer, this one is yet another quality alternative for gamers who want to personalize their keyboard. It has a number of media and programmable keys that work on macro commands. In addition, the sharp Chroma RGB colors immediately make it vibrant and add to its aesthetic appeal.

To anyone who doesn’t like the sound of typing, the good news is that it comes with silent linear switches. These keycaps are made up of ABS plastic, which is pretty long-lasting. It also has a full-size layout, so you can learn many things. Despite the size, it has a wide space for wrist rest and mouse movement.

Lastly, the manufacturers have added Chroma RGB light that is personalized. You can color mix these light patterns and customize them for media. I really like the fact that it has macro-programmable eyes, and all you need to do is set the commands for the keys and enjoy an exciting gaming experience.

Finally, this Razer BlackWidow V4 keyboard has incredible scope for personalization. This is all credit to its macro programmable keys and smart RGB colors that deliver well. Moreover, the ABS keycaps finish adds to its durability and resists spills ideally. The best part about this board is that it doesn’t produce any sound.

The Pros

Macro programmable keys

Customizable RGB colors

Doesn’t produce sound

The keys are long-lasting

The Cons

Not the lightest out there

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Patriot Viper V765 Gaming Keyboard

Patriot Viper V765 Gaming Keyboard View on amazon

Brand: Patriot Viper | Connectivity Technology: Wireless | Number of Keys: 104 | Backlight Color Support: RGB | Key Switches: Mechanical

Last but not least on my list of the best keyboards for gaming is the Patriot Viper V765. It is all about its looks, all credit to its compact size and white switches that immediately makes the board center of attention of the entire PC setup. I also really like the satisfying popping sound of the keys.

To begin with the layout, it is a full-size keyboard with high-profile keys and tapered edges. All the keys are made up of aluminum, which is highly durable. I have been using it now for three years and still haven’t noticed any moisture damage. Also, the plastic plate is pretty durable and doesn’t compress.

Finally, the keys may not be the best, but they do the job well in responding. However, I will advise you to press the keycaps a little harder than usual. It also has RGB lighting for individually programmable keys that add to its appeal. I usually prefer to set the keys to different game modes for a fast process.

This Patriot V765 keyboard is a great choice for anyone in search of an aesthetic version of a basic gaming keyboard. The highlight of this board is the all-white optical switches that immediately attract your attention. Likewise, it is equally worth noting that it has a long cable for portability.

The Pros

Amazing RGB colors

Amazing RGB colors

Attractive white switches

Great value for money

The Cons

Need to press the keys harder

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What to Look for While Buying the Best Keyboard for Gaming: All You Need to Know

Finding a quality keyboard for your gaming journey but can not decide which one to buy? Relax; there is no need to worry, as you have unlimited options out there. A good gaming keyboard is one that is responsive, looks cool, and has a fast connection.

To help you with this search, here are some things you should know before buying the best keyboard for gaming. So, dive right in for more.

Connection Type: Wireless or Wired?

A lot of players, especially casual gamers, get confused while buying a keyboard about whether they should go for a wired or wireless gaming keyboard. Well, before you decide, it is important to know what suits you better. Here are some things that can help you decide which one to opt for.

Wired Gaming Keyboard

The first type is a wired gaming keyboard which is often preferred by professional players. This is because of their good tactile performance and competitive price range. You can easily connect this keyboard to your computer with a wire in the USB port.

All you need to do is make sure whether the cable is long enough for your PC setup. Also, the fact that it does not need any type of battery immediately makes it pocket-friendly, as you no longer have to bear the cost of maintenance.

Wireless Gaming Keyboard

Wireless gaming keyboards are another type of keyboard you may find out there. These boards are used by gamers of all skill sets who prefer using a handy alternative while traveling. They are a bit more expensive than wired keyboards, yet they are always conveniently available.

Moreover, you can find two types of connections, Bluetooth or USB-powered, with these wireless keyboards. Both have considerably fast connections and no response issues. However, these options will need high maintenance and are not as efficient as wired ones. You may experience some lag with these keyboards.

Material Construction and Durability

While buying a gaming keyboard, you should always make sure that it will last you for a long time. You will be using gaming keyboards more frequently than traditional work boards, which immediately reduces their lifespan.

Hence, it is always important to go for a quality plastic or aluminum keyboard. They tend to last longer and reduce the impact of spills, which is certainly an advantage. You also need to consider that not cleaning them regularly can also result in reducing the life of these keyboards.

Keyboard Size

Another important characteristic you should consider is the size of the gaming keyboard. This simply means what the layout of your keyboard is or whether it can support mouse movements or not. Here are the two commonly used options for layouts you can find out there.

Full-size Keyboards

Full-size keyboards are generally more common than tenkeyless keyboards. This is because they have a total number of 104 keys, which means more scope for learning. Most of these alternatives have media and programmable keys that maximize their utility and improve gaming performance. But these keyboards are only good if you have enough space on your desk and are okay with a heavy board.

Tenkeyless Keyboards

On the contrary, tenkeyless keyboards are known for their small sizes and lightweight. They mostly have keys between 60 and 70. These keyboards are usually performed by professional gamers who do not need extra keys and do not have enough space to facilitate a full-size keyboard. They also have a wide space for mouse movement.

Appearance and Design

Some players like me are also fond of aesthetic designs and dark colors when buying any gaming equipment, let alone keyboards. If you are one of them, it is ideal to always have an idea in your mind. Well, most of the keyboards have the traditional black color, and if it matches your vibe, it is great.

But if you are a bit experimental and want to go for fun colors, don’t worry. There are unlimited color options out there, such as navy blue, white, or even metallic gray. That being said, it is ideal for checking that it matches your PC setup in its entirety. I usually prefer using white switches that may be rare to find but can take the looks of your PC to the next level.

Keyboard Accessories

Now that you know all the basic things about the right gaming keyboard, it is time to look for some accessories. Here are some things that should be on your priority list;

Multimedia Keys

Multimedia keys are optional and work best for gamers who have the budget. They are mounted on the top of your keyboard and allow you to control the media function. This includes things like volume high, volume low, or screen brightness while you are still playing the game.

Wrist Rest

Some gaming keyboards feature a wrist rest. It is designed to relax your wrist during long hours of gaming. You can also go for a detachable wrist rest so that you can use it whenever you feel like it. However, do consider that it will definitely cost you extra money.

Backlighting Color Options

These RGB backlight colors are by far my favorite among gaming accessories. This is because they make gaming exciting, and your PC looks cool and trendy. Nowadays, this feature is in almost every gaming keyboard. The best part is that it is customizable in most cases, so you get to color mix and create RGB patterns.

RGB Control Software

As you know, some keyboards have backlighting options, and to personalize this, you will need software. Here, you need to make sure that it is easy to navigate for you.

Summary 10 Best Keyboards For Gaming

Award Modal Design Retailer
Top-Performing Gaming Keyboard Corsair K100 RGB Gaming Keyboard  Corsair K100 RGB Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Ultimate Gaming Keyboard Logitech G915 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Logitech G915 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Elite Gaming Keyboard Glorious PC Gaming Race Keyboard Glorious PC Gaming Race Keyboard View on amazon
Advanced Gaming Keyboard Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Superior Gaming Keyboard ROCCAT Vulcan TKL Pro Gaming Keyboard ROCCAT Vulcan TKL Pro Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Best-in-Class Gaming Keyboard HyperX Alloy Origins Gaming Keyboard HyperX Alloy Origins Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Professional Gaming Keyboard G.SKILL KM360 Mechanical Keyboard G.SKILL KM360 Mechanical Keyboard View on amazon
Premium Gaming Keyboard SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Ultimate Gaming Keyboard Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro Gaming Keyboard Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro Gaming Keyboard View on amazon
Expert Gaming Keyboard Patriot Viper V765 Gaming Keyboard Patriot Viper V765 Gaming Keyboard View on amazon

Conclusion

Final Thoughts

The right gaming keyboard can be really challenging to find, specifically when you are not clear about your individual requirements. For this, you will have to consider everything from layout to construction, connectivity option, and RGB light. Here are some of my favorites you may consider buying;

● Corsair K100 RGB Optical-Mechanical Gaming Keyboard has amazing RGB lights and durable keycaps.

● Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro Gaming Keyboard is known for its full-size layout and macro-command programmable keys.

● HyperX Alloy Origins - Mechanical Gaming Keyboard has a smart key layout and low-profile key switches for casual gamers.

Finally, I hope this guide has helped you in figuring out where to start your search journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specifications should one expect in a mechanical gaming keyboard?

The switch type is undoubtedly the most significant consideration for gaming keyboards. The most familiar and recognized mechanical switches are cherry switches, although there are a variety of variants and several expensive, specialist switches to pick from.

What is the ideal number of keys for a gaming keyboard?

110 to 115 keys are common on gaming, media, and programmable keyboards. The additional features determine the number of keys they bring to computers and users.

What are the various kinds of gaming keyboards?

There are two kinds of gaming keyboards: those with rubber dome switches and those with mechanical controls. This term refers to the technology used to detect when a key is pressed.

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