The best gaming keyboards need to wear a lot of hats at once. Competitive genres require low latency responses and sensitive switches whereas more macro-heavy games will need a set of dedicated combo keys or a robust programming suite. On top of all that, your gaming keyboard will likely also have to double up for productivity with all the navigation and extra keys you need for day-to-day work. That's a lot of work, but if you find the right deck you'll have a set of clickers tailored exactly to the features and feel you need on the desk.
Whether you're looking for a cheaper membrane keyboard (where all your keys are positioned under a rubber dome), or a slightly more premium mechanical keyboard (where each key has its own mechanism to register), we're bringing you our top picks based on our own hands-on experience. We've worked and played with all of these gaming keyboards to find the absolute best contenders on the market right now, and regularly revisit boards to test them against the latest releases as well.
Right now, the best gaming keyboard is the Asus ROG Azoth - a 75% hot-swappable deck with fantastic switches, excellent customization options, and an excellent typing feel. However, you'll find plenty more options all across the price scale below as well.
The quick list
Best overall
Hot-swappable switches, full programmability, a compact footprint, and super responsive speeds, the Asus ROG Azoth has it all.
Best budget
Yes, these are cheaper membrane switches, but with full programmability, media controls, and RGB lighting this is the best value.
Best wireless
With a reliable 2.4GHz or Bluetooth connection and plenty of extra features, the Logitech G915 Lightspeed is our favorite wireless gaming keyboard.
Best low-profile
With a super slick typing feel and plenty of hidden features, the Asus ROG Falchion RX is the best low profile deck on the market right now.
Best 60%
The Corsair K70 packs a ton of extra features into a miniature 60% form factor. If you're looking to maximize mouse-swing space, this is a must-see.
Best 65%
With hall effect switches and a super satisfying typing experience, Endgame's 65% keyboard perfectly marries speed with handy extra features.
Load the next 2 products ↴
Best TKL
The Corsair K70 RGB TKL is perfectly sized for that squat form factor, but also offers 8KHz hyper-polling and plenty of speed in keypresses.
Best full-sized
This is easily the widest gaming keyboard we've had on the desk, with eight macro buttons, and a Command Dial to play with.
What we're looking for
Gaming keyboards come in all shapes and sizes, but there are a few notes all decks must hit to be in with a shot on our top list. We're looking for gaming keyboards that provide both speed and comfort while still offering up additional benefits from their form factors or extra controls. You can expand below for our full testing criteria.
Expand testing criteria ↴
The best gaming keyboard overall
The Asus ROG Azoth is the best gaming keyboard we've had on the GamesRadar desk so far. Between a silky smooth typing experience, hot-swappable switches, speedy response times, and plenty of premium extras, you're covered for both gaming and everyday productivity in style here.
✅ You're happy to invest: The Asus ROG Azoth is up there with some of the most expensive gaming keyboards on the market. You're certainly getting your money's worth here, but this is one for those with a bigger budget.
✅ You want hot-swappability: The hot-swappable switches play a large role in keeping this deck fresh, but very few gaming keyboards can offer both the speed required for gameplay and that customizable PCB. The Azoth is one of the early few that nail both aspects.
✅ You prefer a snappier typing feel: If you keep the ROG NX switches under the hood you're in for a good time - particularly if you prefer a snappier, faster actuating typing feel.
❌ You need a full-sized deck: A 75% form factor is great for a variety of work and productivity uses, but if you rely on a number pad you'll want to pick up a larger deck.
❌ You rely on dedicated macro buttons: There's no space for dedicated macro buttons on board here, which might be a problem if you rely on handy shortcuts during gameplay.
Design: That's because Asus has taken its inspiration from the custom keyboard market, building an off the shelf 75% deck with three layers of sound dampening foam in its gasket mounted chassis. On top of all that, the Azoth also carries a particularly slick design. Its cool grey and black aesthetic pays homage to custom keyboard kits before it, but still manages to add a gamer flair in the OLED display animations and RGB flare. A slimline bezel and grippy PBT keycaps give everything a premium polish to boot. Add three levels of ergonomic comfort and space for up to six profiles in the onboard memory and you have yourself an all-in-one powerhouse.
Features: Hot-swappable switches, a sturdy wireless connection, OLED panel with multi-functional clicker, and grippy PBT keys? There's little the ROG Azoth doesn't pack into its smaller form factor. This is an impressive spec sheet for those willing to invest in a keyboard with both form and functionality - though there are no dedicated macro keys or volume controls (not counting the toggle in the right hand corner which can be customized for a wide range of uses).
Performance: All of that means every keystroke has a soft landing with no reverb around the main body (thanks to the pre-lubed stabilizers), but the NX switches under the hood also offer a satisfying clack to each silky smooth press. Pair that with a speedy debounce and nippy response times and you've got yourself a fast deck with all the comfort of an enthusiast level set of keys. That's not easy to find in a wireless keyboard - we often find that hot-swappable decks sacrifice these kinds of speeds to save space for luxury typing. However, the Asus ROG Azoth proves you can have it all.
It's going to take a lot to knock the Asus ROG Azoth off my desk, and I would seriously urge anyone looking for a premium typing experience to keep one on theirs.
Asus ROG Azoth review
Verdict: No other gaming keyboard on the market can achieve this kind of spec sheet right now. Some have tried - Corsair's K70 Pro Mini took its first stab at a mainstream hot-swappable deck last year, for example. However, the overall experience on offer here in unparalleled, making it the best gaming keyboard on the shelves right now (for those who can afford to invest, anyway).
Read more: Asus ROG Azoth review
| Speed | ★★★★☆ |
| Customization | ★★★★☆ |
| Typing feel | ★★★★★ |
| Portability | ★★★☆☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Controls | ★★★★☆ |
The best budget gaming keyboard
The Razer Cynosa V2 is a budget-minded godsend. You're getting a solid performance at a respectable price here, with a range of dedicated features baked in on top.
✅ This is your first gaming keyboard: Its low price and easy customization setup mean the Razer Cynosa V2 is perfect for your first setup. You're getting all the excitement with RGB and full deck programmability without investing too much straight away.
✅ You want programmability: It's rare to find a gaming keyboard this cheap that doesn't skimp on certain features like full-deck programmability. If this is a must the Cynosa V2 is going to come in very handy.
✅ RGB lighting is a must: Of course, you're getting that classic Razer per-key lighting - a far more intricate LED system than the majority of gaming keyboards in this price range.
❌ You type for long periods of time: Squeaky keys and a softer membrane switch type mean those who type particularly quickly for long periods of time could find this deck uncomfortable.
❌ Space is limited: If you want to keep plenty of space for mouse sweeps, or you're just rolling with a smaller setup it's worth considering a smaller 75% or 65% deck.
Design: The Cynosa V2 is decidedly a Razer affair, with blaring RGB lights set against a black matte plastic backdrop. A fairly significant slope down the front of the main deck provides the palms with a softer approach to the main deck where a wrist rest has been priced out of the box. A new suite of media controls are all kept separate from the main keys, dropped in the top right corner as smaller circular buttons with a volume rocker to the right.
Features: As a 'membrane' device, this version of the Cynosa is much quieter than the competition - a design feature that we particularly appreciated compared to the louder mechanical decks we're used to seeing. That's because its keys are pressing down on a rubbery sheet, meaning you don't get that distracting typewriter 'clack'. In other words, it's perfect in a busy household or at work where you don't want to cause too much noise.
Macro settings which allow you to program each key add further value. This isn't a feature we see making its way into the vast majority of cheaper gaming keyboards. In fact, it's usually one of the first to go once you get into this kind of price range. To find full programmability next to an array of RGB LEDs is excellent - especially considering there's dedicated media controls as well.
Performance: It's excellent under stress, too. More specifically, the speed and resistance of each key is spot on. Our fingers were flying across them in use, but they never felt cheap - they're much lighter switches than those found in cheaper membrane keyboards, like the Roccat Magma featured elsewhere on this list, so we'd recommend if you're looking for twitch reflex actions without the price tag of a more expensive mechanical option.
The smooth plastic keycaps were satisfying to type with, too. Considering the Cynosa V2's low cost, that's an impressive feat. We did encounter a few squeaky keys in our test unit, and this has long been an issue in our experience with Razer Cynosa keyboards. While this isn't constant, it is certainly noticeable.
If you've never owned a gaming keyboard before, this is the perfect place to start.
Razer Cynosa V2 review
Verdict: The Razer Cynosa V2 isn't going to cause the Asus ROG Azoth any problems for its typing feel and the HyperX Elite 2 isn't going to worry about its pricier mechanical switch implementation. However, if you're after a budget gaming keyboard for your first setup, or you simply don't need the speeds or luxury typing feel available further up the price scale this is certainly an excellent place to start.
Read more: Razer Cynosa V2 review
| Speed | ★★★☆☆ |
| Customization | ★★★☆☆ |
| Typing feel | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Portability | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Controls | ★★★★☆ |
The best wireless gaming keyboard
The Logitech G915 sports the brand's trusted Lightspeed technology to provide a solid wireless connection no matter how frenzied your attacks are.
✅ You want a low profile set of keys: There are fewer low profile keyboards out in the wild right now, so if you don't get on with a higher keycap it's well worth checking out Logitech's entry.
✅ A reliable wireless connection is a must: That Lightspeed connection is rock solid, despite being a little older than other options on this list. You'll still enjoy a reliable tether with super low latencies.
✅ You want dedicated macro buttons: The five dedicated macro buttons shouldn't be taken for granted. Few decks pack these extras so if you rely particularly heavily on macro controls you're onto a winner here.
❌ A wrist rest is important: Despite the larger price tag there's no wrist rest included with the G915. That's largely because this is a particularly skinny deck in the first place, but if you need the support we'd recommend looking elsewhere.
❌ You prefer longer key travel: Those low profile keys aren't going to be for everyone, so if you prefer a more tactile typing feel it's best to stick to standard heights.
Design: A full-sized keyboard but without the chunky form factor usually associated with gaming decks, the Logitech G915 is a stealthy low profile device. Between the super thin chassis design and brushed aluminium aesthetic, everything about this build feels sophisticated. You'll still find RGB lighting peering up through the keys, but it's a softer, less aggressive twinkle. Overall, this is a design for those who prefer to keep things understated, without sacrificing on functionality.
Features: Long considered the gold standard for wireless gaming keyboards, the G915 is a slimline powerhouse, offering a low profile key set and a competitive battery life to boot. You'll be able to run this particular deck at full brightness for 30 hours - that's considerably better than the runtime of the Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro for slightly less cash to boot. While some wireless decks can run for much longer than Logitech's without that RGB lighting, though, this is a solid all-rounder which will appeal to those looking for a balance between aesthetics and performance.
With five dedicated macro buttons, a whole panel of media controls, and a sleek aluminium top cashing, there's plenty of luxury baked into the bare bones of this device as well.
Performance: Those low profile keys are snappy and tight, with plenty of speed in travelling across the full deck. While the ABS keycaps are a little slippery compared to more textured PBT options, there's still plenty of control here - key spacing and sizes are particularly strong. That wireless connection is also rock solid, earning the G915 its spot among the best gaming keyboards. Yes, it's a little older but the strength of this connection is still up there with the best by today's standards.
Verdict: This isn't exactly a new release, which means we're seeing those lofty $229.99 / £209.99 starting prices sliding significantly. You'll likely find it closer to $180 / £140 right now.
| Speed | ★★★★☆ |
| Customization | ★★★☆☆ |
| Typing feel | ★★★★☆ |
| Portability | ★★★☆☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Controls | ★★★★☆ |
The best low-profile gaming keyboard
The Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile is a fantastic gaming keyboard in its own right, but its super satisfying typing experience and unique media control scheme make it a standout in today's market.
✅ You regularly travel with your kit: The lightweight, slimline design of the Asus is a fantastic benefit to anyone who wants to take their setup on the go - as is the Bluetooth connection option and long battery life.
✅ You want dedicated media controls: 65% keyboards are often plagued with having their media playback controls remapped to a function row. However, you've got a dedicated slider here for quick access.
✅ You want sensitive switches: One of the biggest draws towards low profile keyboards is their speed, and the Asus switches in here marry that short travel time with nicely sensitive switches for twitch-reflex reactions.
❌ You want a full-sized keyboard: If you want access to a full number pad and a set of navigation keys we'd recommend checking out the Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro instead.
❌ You rely on the shift key for a lot of macros: The shorter shift key did trip us up during testing, having us accidentally hitting the caps lock regularly. That's not a major issue for everyday use - unless these two keys are regularly used in your macro commands.
Design: Due to its low profile design, the Asus ROG Falchion RX can afford its incredibly slimline design. At first glance, the floating top plate seems almost impossible, but a cleverly placed wedge underneath hides the extra depth so that it's invisible from a top down perspective. Combined with super skinny bezels, this is a particularly svelt piece of kit.
Of course, one of the biggest design features has to be the glossy RGB display running along the top. This not only houses your media control slider (along the front edge), but also provides real-time visual feedback for said slider in its RGB stripes. All of that sits around a set of crisp white keycaps. These are ABS but they feel nicely soft under the hand, and have been treated to avoid shine.
Features: It's rare to find dedicated media controls on a 65% keyboard, but the Falchion packs a small touch-sensitive slider along its top panel that can be configured for anything from scrolling to playback. That's a solid feature in itself, but combine it with Mac OS support (and associated printed legends), two layers of sound dampening foam under the main chassis, and on the fly macro recording and you've got a full house.
Performance: The typing experience here is absolutely fantastic, with those softer keycaps playing into the lightweight switches particularly well. Those layers of foam create a nicely muted soundscape to each keypress, avoiding the clack of traditional gaming keyboards while still providing a satisfying auditory response. The size of the shift key did get in the way of accuracy a little here. It's a considerably stubby implementation and, in combination with the sensitive switches and low profile keycaps, we were regularly hitting caps lock instead. That's only going to be a problem if you rely on these keys for more complex bindings, though.
Verdict: Overall, the Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile is one of the most promising keyboards to hit the market in 2024. Its extra features and satisfying, yet comfortable, typing experience make it the best low profile gaming keyboard we've tested yet and its connectivity and compatibility is up there with the best as well.
Read more: Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile review
| Speed | ★★★★☆ |
| Customization | ★★★☆☆ |
| Typing feel | ★★★★★ |
| Portability | ★★★★★ |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Controls | ★★★★☆ |
The best 60% gaming keyboard
There's a battle taking place in the 60% gaming keyboard arena. 2022 brought us plenty of new models to scratch this minimalist itch, but the Corsair K70 Pro Mini came out as top dog.
✅ Onboard profiles are a top priority: Corsair has packed up to 50 onboard profiles into this little keyboard. While that's more than the vast majority of players will be using, there's no worries about running out of space here.
✅ You regularly travel with your gaming keyboard: The smaller form factor and wireless design means the K70 Pro Mini travels particularly well, and the durability of this build means you won't be worried about it in your backpack either.
✅ You need competition-level speeds: Few hot-swappable keyboards can boast competitive speeds like this. If you don't want to sacrifice lightning fast commands for customization, this is one of the few decks to have your back.
❌ You want a smooth typing experience straight out the box: We had to jimmy some of the switches around to get the best out of them after first opening the box, so if you don't want to invest in a lubing kit you might not get the best experience.
❌ You don't want to swap the switches: A hot-swappable PCB plate is adding to the overall price here, so if you don't plan on swapping those switches out it becomes a little more difficult to justify the cost.
Design: The K70 Pro Mini takes a rare step away from the standard designs of Corsair decks. Rather than the typical stocky plank we're so used to seeing, this new mini keyboard takes a much more sloped approach, with neat angled sides and a slick RGB strip running around the full perimeter. It's a great looking deck but it's also particularly comfortable. The whole device is naturally elevated towards the back, with additional feet to provide extra height on top. Plus, those grippy PBT keycaps ensure there's plenty of texture to every key press.
Features: There's just so much packed into this miniature deck; up to 50 onboard profiles (many decks limit you to just five), hot-swappable switches, and plenty of double commands assigned to the function key. The K70 Pro Mini essentially keeps everything you need in a gaming keyboard while maintaining that space-saving form factor - and that's not something you see in every release.
There's one frustration in the layout, though, and that comes from the arrow buttons remapped to IJKL. That's a little tricky to hit in more frantic moments, and other 60% models like the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 manage to re-organize to ensure these key commands are within easy reach.
Performance: Compared to similar contenders like the Razer Huntsman Mini Analog and SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini, both keyboards that look to up their game with adjustable switches, the Corsair K70 Pro is flying through its spec sheet. Not only that, but everything handles particularly well in-game as well. Corsair's Axon processor keeps each move snappy and precise, with noticeably low latency and a strong response.
We did notice that those hot-swappable switches were a little scratchy straight out of the box, and the stabilizers will need plenty of lubrication if you're going to be typing for long periods of time, but those are easy fixes thanks to the customization options on offer here.
"It's rare to find a miniature gaming keyboard that doesn't sacrifice anything, but if you're after an all-in-one powerhouse you're well served here."
Corsair K70 Pro Mini review
Those finishing touches will only get you so far - swapping out the Cherry MX Reds for a set of super smooth Mountain Linear 45s alerted us to a particularly harsh landing space underneath the main deck here. There's no sound absorption here - but this isn't a keyboard designed for typists, it's one built for speed and personalization and it excels in these arenas.
Verdict: The Corsair K70 Pro Mini is an impressive machine, boasting a feature-filled experience that few others can offer. If you're after miniature speedster with plenty of additional functionality baked in, it's the best in the business.
Read more: Corsair K70 Pro Mini review
| Speed | ★★★★★ |
| Customization | ★★★★☆ |
| Typing feel | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Portability | ★★★★☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★☆☆ |
| Controls | ★★☆☆☆ |
The best 65% gaming keyboard
Launched in 2024, the Endgame Gear KB65HE makes smart use of hall effect switches to offer an endlessly customizable 65% keyboard with plenty of extra features, all without breaking the bank. This is a go-to deck for both speedsters and those taking their time with their keystrokes.
✅ You play competitively: Set at their shortest positions, these switches are incredibly fast. That, plus the fact that their exact actuation point can be fine tuned makes this an excellent option for those tapping quickly.
✅ You want deeper customization options: Adjustable switches are by no means common, but they provide ample control over exactly how your switch performs. Don't like them? You can always hot-swap them out.
✅ You only play at your desk: With a chunky base and wired connection, this is one for those keeping their setup firmly in place.
❌ You travel regularly with your kit: The lack of wireless connection and heavier form factor means this keyboard isn't going to play nicely with a backpack setup.
❌ A wireless connection is a necessity: If you don't like the idea of cables flowing over your desktop, it's worth checking out something with a 2.4GHz connection.
Design: The Endgame Gear KB65HE doesn't set out to do anything drastic with its design. This stocky black box could be any 65% keyboard released in the last few years. However, it's a fully CNC milled aluminum chassis with premium Ducky PBT keycaps up top. That's an air of luxury you certainly don't get every day, though the resulting weight can be off putting if you need to travel regularly.
Features: The Gateron KS-37B switches under the hood are the stars of the show here. These are hall-effect switches, a term you may be familiar with if you've been fighting thumbstick drift in your controllers. Essentially, they're powered by magnets rather than electronics which means they're super durable and, crucially, you can set the point at which they actuate.
That means you can set these bad boys to click at just the slightest touch, or opt for something a little deeper making for a fantastic level of control no matter which genres you're playing. This is also a hot-swappable keyboard, so if you don't like the feel of these switches in particular you can always change them out for something else.
Performance: We enjoyed a rich, robust typing experience across the full Endgame deck, with very little wobble to larger keys and a soft, smooth feel to each keypress. Experimenting with different actuation speeds actually made a noticeable difference in more competitive endeavors, and even the most sensitive of settings was still accurate due to a nice level of tension in the springs themselves.
Verdict: Its customization features, excellent typing feel, and premium build quality make the Endgame Gear KB65HE the best 65% keyboard we've tested yet. It's offering fantastic bang for buck value whether you're investing in your first deck or upgrading from something a little simpler.
Read more: Endgame Gear KB65HE review
| Speed | ★★★★★ |
| Customization | ★★★★★ |
| Typing feel | ★★★★☆ |
| Portability | ★★★☆☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★☆☆ |
| Controls | ★★☆☆☆ |
The best TKL gaming keyboard
The K70 is one of Corsair's most successful lines of mechanical gaming keyboards, so it makes sense for them to bring the speed of the full sized model to a TKL form-factor.
✅ You want a keyboard built for competition: From its speed to a travel-friendly design, the Corsair K70 RGB TKL is an excellent gaming keyboard for competitive use.
✅ You travel regularly with your setup: With a detachable cable, slimline design, and durable build quality, this is a keyboard that can withstand a journey or two.
✅ You want plenty of media controls: TKL is the smallest size we generally see adopting media controls, which means those who don't want to miss out on these commands should be starting their search here.
❌ You don't need media controls: If you're after a purely competitive deck, you're not going to need those media controls and you can instead invest in something smaller and lighter overall.
❌ You need a wrist rest straight out the box: There's an uncomfortable lip to the bottom edge of this deck, and considering there's no wrist rest it could cause some discomfort after longer sessions.
Design: That TKL size makes for a far more ergonomic feel. However, we were disappointed to find that the wrist rest is sold separately, and the lip of the keyboard itself proved a little harsh on the palms after longer play sessions. Thanks to the detachable cable, you're all set up for travelling too.
Although the build could be a little lighter to fully make the most of this competitive use, you're getting a stunning and durable brushed effect on top as a trade-off that's not to be missed. The plastic material running under the main body still feels solid enough to withstand transport as well.
Features: This is a deck that feels tailor-made for tournament play, boasting 8,000Hz hyper-polling and 4,000Hz key scanning rates. It feels like an understatement to claim that the Corsair K70 RGB TKL is fast. While you are losing out on some dedicated macro controls and USB passthrough, every key is programmable itself. However, a quick flip of the new Tournament switch can also reset your keyboard to competitive standards as well. You'll find a wide range of Cherry MX switches available for your configuration, as well as a solid array of media controls.
Performance: We were particularly impressed by the feather-light actuation response in these keys, considering less successful Corsair keyboards can feel a little clunky under hand. We were moving across these keys with minimal effort, but there's enough grip and anti-rollover at play here that we rarely had any trouble with multiple key presses in our testing.
Verdict: The Corsair K70 RGB TKL is a speed demon, with plenty of extra design and functionality features for the competitive player. Whether you're after a TKL gaming keyboard to take on the road, or simply to move between work and play this is the best we've tested so far.
Read more: Corsair K70 RGB TKL review
| Speed | ★★★★★ |
| Customization | ★★★☆☆ |
| Typing feel | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Portability | ★★★☆☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★☆☆ |
| Controls | ★★★★☆ |
The best full-sized gaming keyboard
We'll get it out of the way first, this is not a cheap device. The Razer Blackwidow V4 Pro comes in at $229 / £229, but if you're looking for this kind of pedigree power it's an investment well worth making.
✅ Macros are everything: With a massive range of macro commands at your disposal, this is truly the best gaming keyboard for those after an all-in-one control panel.
✅ You want a sound dampened typing experience: While Razer doesn't always nail it with acoustics, the V4 Pro seems to be an outlier. There's a solid thud to every keystroke with a pleasant level of sound dampening under the main chassis.
✅ You want a command center for both work and play: These macros are excellent for gaming, but they also come in particularly handy for productivity. We were primarily using the side buttons for everyday actions during work, but there are plenty of uses for the command dial as well.
❌ You don't need additional macro support: Of course, if you don't use macros you're not going to get the best value for money here. This is an expensive keyboard because of that attention to extra controls.
❌ Desk space is a concern: This thing is also a monster. If you're working with a smaller desk, we'd seriously consider measuring everything up before buying.
❌ You need your keyboard to travel well: It goes without saying this beast of a keyboard won't play nice with a backpack - if you're looking to travel, check out a smaller 65% deck.
Design: Every inch of this massive deck feels superbly put together. There's a density that comes with these high quality materials that promises a high degree of durability. While we don't usually expect to see ABS keycaps in this $200+ price range, they're nicely textured and offer a solid response under the hand. That, combined with the internal sound dampening foam, makes for a particularly satisfying experience overall. That's a nice departure from the endless echoes of other gaming keyboards, particularly the Razer Huntsman V2.
The build materials are high quality, the aesthetic is on point, and the typing feel is satisfying - but that's not what makes the BlackWidow V4 Pro the best full-sized gaming keyboard. It's the extra buttons and controls that handle that.
Features: The V4 Pro is everything one could want from a full-sized gaming keyboard, and then some. That control-panel style suite of dials and buttons will be the downfall of this latest release in certain eyes - it's certainly not fit for a small setup - but if you're after a full command centre and the macro support to back it up this is where you need to be looking.
The top of the deck sports your standard dedicated media playback controls with a volume roller to boot, but there's also the Command Dial. While underutilized, this is a handy piece of kit if you regularly switch programs. In-game it takes a little tinkering to really be useful (and it's placed a little too far away from the main deck to be considered easily grabbable), however, with 30 steps per revolution and up to eight functions there's plenty of potential hidden up here. On top of that, you've got five dedicated macro keys running along the left and three additional buttons to the side of the deck itself. That's an incredible suite of controls sure to satisfy even the most impatient combo artists.
While you're dropping the wireless connectivity of previous BlackWidow instalments, the V4 Pro makes up for it with USB passthrough, slick RGB lighting running full diameter of the deck and wrist rest, and a fantastic typing experience.
Performance: In general, gaming keyboards tend to focus their efforts on either speed or customization. The BlackWidow V4 Pro manages to nail both. We didn't necessarily notice the benefit of 8K hyper-polling in everyday play, but competitors are going to feel the benefits. Each key remained snappy and responsive across a wide range of genres, though, even if the larger size meant precision was a little reduced.
If you're looking to pack as many macros as possible, this is the deck for you.
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro review
Verdict: The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro is a heavy purchase - both physically and in price. This is a massive rig that's going to take up considerable space on the desk, but will provide an unparalleled level of control.
Read more: Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro review
| Speed | ★★★★★ |
| Customization | ★★★★☆ |
| Typing feel | ★★★☆☆ |
| Portability | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Controls | ★★★★★ |
How we test gaming keyboards
Every keyboard that takes up residency on our desks goes through a series of tests to see exactly how it ranks among the best decks on the market. We check everything from the n-key rollover to the keyboard's scan rate to make sure all features are as described, but we also put each set of keys through their paces through a series of genres and titles. We test response times, debounce, switch speeds, ease of macro use, travel, weight of switches, and polling rate using faster first person shooter and action titles as well as strategy, simulation, platformer, and racing genres as well.
We also pay close attention to how well the form factor lends itself to the useability and speed of each device. That means we're always judging whether the build materials are solid and watching out for flex, keycap wobble, and inconsistent or unreliable switches. We use each model for weeks at a time, bringing them into our daily lives for work and play - so we can gather an early idea of whether any scuffs or scratches will appear from standard everyday use. However, crucially, we keep these keyboards in our rotations far beyond the publication of our final review - which means we can watch out for longer-term durability concerns and update our findings as well.
Our testing also covers those all-important switches. We check how well the actuation feel, travel distance, and speed comply with the overall design and intended use-case of the keyboard itself. We also fully strip and rebuild any hot-swappable keyboards that we review as well.
At the end of our testing, we make an assessment not just on performance, but also concerning the overall value of the product itself. That means we measure all of our findings against the price point and competing models within that bracket as well.
For more information on how we make our recommendations, take a look at our full 12DOVE Hardware Policy. You'll also find more details on how we test gaming keyboards specifically as well.
Also tested
How to choose the right gaming keyboard
Why you can trust 12DOVE Our experts review games, movies and tech over countless hours, so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about our reviews policy.
The gaming keyboard market is massive, and there are plenty of different models out there all offering a slightly different experience. Finding the right one for you can be tricky - especially if this is your first deck. However, there are a few key features that you can narrow down to in order to make sure you're getting the best experience for your playstyle. From size to switches, connections to caps, gaming keyboards are made up of a number of different elements - and each one has an impact on how you interact with your games.
Connection
The first thing you'll likely want to decide on is your connection. A wireless gaming keyboard is better for travel and keeps your desk clutter-free. But you can save a considerable amount of cash if you just attach that little cable. Unlike the world of gaming mice, the presence of that wire doesn't impact the actual experience of using a keyboard. However, if you plan on using your deck with multiple devices in your setup it's well worth investing in a 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connection.
Size
Once you've landed on one side of the wired vs wireless debate, it's time to take a look at your desk top. Keyboards have evolved beyond the full-sized decks we came to accept back in the day - you can now get tiny 60% models and even larger command centers. Each comes with its own benefits. While many initially struggle with the finger gymnastics required by the smallest keyboards (most commands are assigned to a secondary functional layer), a 65% model is perfect for those looking for a little more room to swing their mouse while still keeping a good amount of controls on board. 75% bumps you up to some extra navigational keys, and is preferable if you're using your keyboard for work as well as play but still want to keep things slim. A full-sized model is going to limit your mouse movements a little, but provides more options for extra keybindings and macros.
Typing feel
If you're going to be using your keyboard for heavier typing sessions, it's well worth investing in a model that borrows from the world of custom decks. Features like gasket mounting, tape modding, and foam dampeners have all made their way from the enthusiast space to gaming keyboards in the last year, and make for a fantastic feel when hammering through the keys. If, however, you're only really going to be running the WASD this kind of investment might be misplaced (these design features can drive up the price a little).
Switches
The vast majority of keyboards come with a range of different switch options to choose from. However, once you've narrowed your selection down to a few candidates it's worth taking a look at the clickers you have available. More and more of the best gaming keyboards are actually hot-swappable (meaning you can easily replace the switches down the road), but picking up the kind of actuation speed and feel that suits you from day one is still important. A linear switch is a smooth sweep down through the keypress, without any bumps underneath. This is best for faster gameplay with repeat presses. A tactile switch will present a small bump to the actuation halfway down the keypress - it's more satisfying and controlled, but not as fast when it comes to repeat presses. Clicky switches are similar, keeping that tactile bump, but making a louder sound while doing so. For more information, check out our guide to mechanical keyboard switches.
Gaming keyboard glossary
So as not to run this glossary section for ten pages, this guide focuses on key terms applied to gaming keyboards themselves, rather than the switches employed in them.
Gaming Keyboard FAQ
What are the best gaming keyboard brands?
If you're looking to narrow your search, or you're looking to build a whole ecosystem of RGB lighting, it's worth sticking to one brand. We've had our hands on a massive selection of keys, and our top three brands are Razer, Corsair, and Roccat. These are the brands that most often appear in our top roundup above, with plenty of range in their prices catering to entry level buyers and pros alike.
What is the difference between a keyboard and a gaming keyboard?
There are several features separating gaming keyboards from everyday office decks. The most immediately obvious is RGB lighting. Gaming models generally all feature customizable LEDs underneath the main keycaps, with a range of different effects to choose from. However, there are more differences that give gaming decks the edge in more competitive arenas. You're more likely to find a mechanical switch underneath your caps, for example, whereas cheaper office keyboards regularly use softer membrane switches.
Mechanical switches are more satisfying and tactile and can actuate very quickly (especially when optical switches are introduced), whereas membrane models can feel a little squishier under the hand, and don't provide a fast debounce for repeat presses (find out more in our full mechanical vs membrane keyboard breakdown).
A gaming keyboard will generally also run much quicker. The polling rate will be set to a minimum of 1,000Hz - meaning you have very little chance of your keypresses being missed by your PC. Most office keyboards have a polling rate of between 500Hz and 800Hz, dropping as low as 125Hz in some models.
Other than speed, switches, and RGB, you may notice a gaming keyboard offering dedicated macro buttons for personalized keybindings, additional media controls, or tournament locks included.
What makes a gaming keyboard good?
Some of the best gaming keyboards all share a specific set of features and qualities that make them stand out from the rest of the pack. A good deck is one that offers a satisfying and precise typing experience but still packs a high response time (the speed at which the keyboard communicates with the PC) and additional customization options.
In your search for the best gaming keyboard, you should check three main features; switches, macro programming, and response times.
The switches you use will determine how each key-press feels under your hand, but each switch will register that key-press at a different speed. The moment that the keyboard registers that something has been hit is called the actuation point; a lower actuation point is better for gaming because you'll be able to react with faster twitch reflex inputs. The best switch is subjective, but red linear models are generally found in the top decks.
Macros set these dedicated decks apart from other every-day mechanical devices. A good gaming keyboard will offer around six additional keys that can be re-mapped for easy access to in-game actions like reloading, switching a weapon, or aiming down sights. However, some keyboards also eschew these dedicated keys for a fully remappable deck as well.
The speed of your keyboard is generally measured through its response time. While other aspects of your device can effect the speed of your inputs, like the actuation point, switch debounce times, and layout, the response time measures how long it takes the keyboard to scan each key press and send that information to your computer. We'd recommend looking for a response time between 1 and 8ms.
Which switches should you use in a mechanical gaming keyboard?
Mechanical gaming keyboard switches come in three broad strokes; linear, tactile, and clicky. The first describes a switch that moves straight down when pressed, with no bumps in its feel or clacks in its sound. These linear switches are generally the most popular, allowing players to press keys repeatedly very quickly, and generally move across the board easier as well. They're also smoother and quieter for a more comfortable use as well.
However, you may want to try a tactile switch if you're looking for instant acknowledgement that your key press has registered. These switches feature a small bump when you press the key down fully - actuating (registering a keypress) when the bump is hit, rather than when the key is fully pressed. That makes for a more accurate keypress, and if you get used to feeling for the bump, a faster typing experience overall.
Clicky switches are still tactile, offering the same feel as a tactile, but do so with a louder clack sound. That's excellent if you're looking for a more audible experience, but not so good if you're working or playing in a shared area.
What size gaming keyboard should you use?
Gaming keyboards come in a range of shapes and sizes. Thankfully these days we’re seeing fewer RGB bricks with jagged corners and a weight that would bend a desk. However, there’s still a good variety of size configurations to choose from.
A TKL, 60 or 65% keyboard drops the number pad and may even lose your arrow buttons and function keys as well. That’s better for keeping your desk space, and making sure you can still swing your mouse around in the heat of battle, but can limit you functionally.
If you’re using your desk setup just for gaming, and that happens to be faster paced, more agile shooter titles, this is an excellent option. However, if you’re working on your keyboard as well, or if you can’t do without your macros or media controls, a full sized board may be required.
If you're fully upgrading your setup, it might be time to think about diving into the world of the best gaming PCs, or checking out our top pick for the best gaming laptop if you plan on taking your games on the go.
We're also rounding up all the best gaming chair brands, and - if you're not interested in the best gaming headsets on the market - you'll also find all the best computer speakers right here as well.
