The best gaming keyboard can raise gamers' competitive levels and serve as the centerpiece of gaming PCs. These peripherals spring to life with spectacular RGB lighting, and their performance separates them from cheap office gear. Whether a buyer is a dedicated gamer or needs a keyboard for everyday tasks, it's one of the most essential components.
The Best Mechanical Keyboards in 2024
Mechanical keyboards are now an essential part of any gaming setup. Among the endless choices, find the ideal mechanical keyboard for your rig.
Unfortunately, the keyboard market is more crowded than ever, and digging through all the options is a chore. That's why Game ZXC tested the best gaming keyboards we could find to create this list. Whether it's a wired or wireless gaming keyboard in a full-size or mini form factor, there is the perfect keyboard for every gamer out there. Besides key layout and connectivity, buyers should also consider what switch type best fits their typing style and how extensively they need to customize a keyboard.
Looking for a gaming mouse to pair with your new keyboard? Make sure to check out our rankings of the best MMO, FPS, and the overall top gaming mice.
Updated on May 21, 2024, by Adam Corsetti: There is no shortage of new innovative keyboards that appeal to gamers' specific needs and styles. In the latest update of this buyer's guide, Game ZXC added choices for the top full-size, compact, and customizable keyboards that can enhance any PC rig, regardless of available space.
Game ZXC's Best Gaming Keyboards in 2024
Razer Huntsman V3 Pro
Razer's most innovative gaming keyboard is back with improved Gen 2 analog optical switches and advanced onboard storage capabilities. The Huntsman V3 Pro features even more accurate switches, allowing on-the-fly actuation adjustments and Rapid Trigger mode for furious inputs. A multi-function digital dial can toggle between volume and actuation settings, while a series of LED indicators lets games know what settings are active. The Huntsman V3 Pro remains one of the most durable keyboards thanks to wear-resistant PBT keycaps and sturdy aluminum top plate.
- Brand
- Razer
- Wireless
- No
- Backlight
- Yes
- Media Controls
- Yes
- Num Pad
- Yes
- Switch Type
- Analog Optical
- Wrist rest
- Yes
- Polling rate
- 1000 Hz
- Number of Keys
- 104
- Keycaps
- PBT
- Adjustable actuation settings
- Extensive onboard storage benefits competitive gamers
- Highly customizable RGB lighting
- Rock-solid build quality
- Wrist rest not the most comfortable
- Gamepad functionality has limited practical use
The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro had many expectations to meet to earn the title of best gaming keyboard. Fortunately, the keyboard comes through like a champion and stands out among the manufacturer's extensive range of gaming mice and keyboards. The Huntsman V3 Pro is the best gaming keyboard if you're searching for top-notch build quality and innovative features benefiting esports pros and casual gamers.
The Huntsman V3 Pro does not include ordinary mechanical switches but rather optical analog hardware with several advantages. Switches in this Razer keyboard don't rely on making physical contact with keys; instead, a beam of light measures the travel distance during inputs. Also, the Huntsman V3 Pro utilizes rock-solid double-shot PBT keycaps with letters and numbers that resist fading. The result is keys and switches that should last through years of intense typing.
With the Huntsman V3 Pro, gamers can precisely specify how the keyboard reacts to the force of key presses. Users can set multiple actuation levels in the Razer Synapse app and program several commands per key depending on the force applied. Perhaps the most unique ability of the Huntsman V3 Pro results from flexible switches that move 360 degrees. The keyboard shows up as a game controller in Windows, and during gameplay, players can move their characters in more directions than normally possible with a keyboard. However, this functionality only works in games recognizing simultaneous keyboard and mouse inputs.
How To Choose the Best Mechanical Keyboard for Gaming
With thousands of mechanical keyboards available out there, this guide aims to separate the wheat from the chaff and help gamers
The Huntsman V3 Pro is a serious gaming weapon with impeccable craftsmanship and highly customizable analog switches. The keyboard offers several improvements over its predecessor, the V2 Analog, including a wider actuation range. Still, buyers looking to save money should check out Game ZXC's review of the Huntsman V2 Analog.
Corsair K55 Core RGB Gaming Keyboard
The K55 Core is an affordable way to experience the advantages of a Corsair gaming keyboard. With low-effort typing, this membrane keyboard has the quick and responsive performance needed during furious gameplay. The K55 Core also looks stunning with bright and customizable ten-zone backlighting. Among budget keyboards, few options give gamers more control, thanks to the powerful macro reprogramming functionality in the Corsair iCue app. Complete with 300 ml spill resistance to avoid desktop disasters, the K55 Core is ready to become a permanent part of a battlestation.
- Brand
- Corsair
- Wireless
- No
- Backlight
- RGB 10 Zone
- Media Controls
- Yes
- Num Pad
- Yes
- Switch Type
- Membrane, Rubber Dome
- Wrist rest
- No
- Polling rate
- 1000 Hz
- Number of Keys
- 110
- Compatible Devices
- PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox
- USB Passthrough
- No
- Light and quiet typing
- Fairly compact for a full-sized keyboard
- Same iCue functionality as more expensive Corsair models
- 10-zone RGB lighting still looks fantastic
- Small media buttons difficult to find
- Not the same build quality as a premium mechanical keyboard
Our pick for the best budget gaming keyboard is the Corsair K55 Core RGB. Many buyers shopping for affordable keyboards probably don't have large gaming desks with excess free space. While the K55 Core RGB is a full-sized gaming keyboard, it wastes little room on its edges, and low-profile keycaps contribute to a compact form factor. Sadly, one side effect of this compressed design is small media keys, which can be difficult to find without searching. With mostly plastic in its build, buyers won't mistake the K55 Core RGB Pro for a mechanical keyboard consisting of aluminum alloy. However, Corsair tried to enhance this membrane keyboard's durability by making it spill-resistant.
The Best Gaming Keyboards Under $50
Gaming keyboards don't have to cost an arm and a leg, and some of the best gaming keyboards can even be found for under $50.
If on a budget, gamers can pretend to own a more expensive Corsair keyboard since the K55 Core RGB Core supports the most advanced features in iCue. Even though the lighting on the budget keyboard is zone-based, users have a fairly high degree of customization with the RGB effects. Even more practical, it's possible to set macros and remap most functions of the K55 Core RGB Core in the app.
With RGB keyboard lighting that shines brightly through and in between keycaps, the K55 Core RGB Core looks impressive for a budget purchase. Regardless, its smooth typing, reminiscent of a linear mechanical switch, is what will keep gamers using it indefinitely. Benefiting from these effortless inputs, the Corsair K55 Core RGB is the top gaming keyboard in the budget class. You can learn more about why this keyboard is such an enticing value by reading Game ZXC's review of the K55 Core RGB.
ASUS ROG Azoth Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
The Asus ROG Azoth is a fresh take from ASUS as it attempts to make up for its limited presence in the wireless mechanical gaming keyboards market with a premium TKL-esque offering that pushes the boundaries of both price points and customizability for consumers.
- Brand
- Asus
- Wireless
- Yes 2.4GHz + BT
- Backlight
- Yes, RGB
- Media Controls
- No
- Battery
- Up to 2000 Hours without RGB/OLED
- Num Pad
- No
- Bluetooth
- Yes
- Wrist rest
- No
- Polling rate
- 1000Hz
- Switch Type
- ROG NX mechanical switches
- Replaceable Keys
- Yes
- Compatible Devices
- PC, Mac, Consoles
- Wired operation
- Yes, USB 2.0
- Charging
- Wired Charging
- Feels like a premium device with plenty of extras included
- OLED display supplies some surprisingly useful information
- Tri-mode connectivity and 2,000-hour battery life
- Low-latency wireless performance
- Requires a serious investment
- Bloated Armoury Crate app
Next is our pick for the top premium gaming keyboard, the Asus ROG Azoth. The Asus ROG Azoth is suited for PC enthusiasts who enjoy building custom peripherals, but it also provides smooth typing and an extensive feature set. The best mechanical keyboards allow for key presses that give a gamer a high level of tactile feedback, but they can also be quite loud. To make typing less noisy, Asus employs a silicone gasket mount and layers of foam to absorb vibrations.
The Asus ROG Azoth is a 75 percent form factor keyboard without number keys, but it also efficiently uses its more limited surface area. Even so, the gaming keyboard's 2.6-pound weight makes it hold firm on desktops without a cord getting in the way. The device can also seamlessly switch between RF, Bluetooth, and wired connectivity. The battery life on the ROG Azoth is also quite impressive, as the keyboard can last up to 2,000 hours without a charge, provided there is minimal usage of RGB lighting.
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For buyers just looking for a straightforward wireless keyboard, the Asus ROG Azoth may present too high of a price and an excess of complexity. The Armoury Crate software doesn't help since it's rather bloated and prone to crashes. Nevertheless, Game ZXC's full review of the Asus ROG Azoth determined that this keyboard is in a class of its own with ultra-latency wireless connectivity and extensive customization.
Logitech G915 TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed is a professional-grade gaming keyboard. It supports Lightspeed wireless connectivity, which delivers a fast connection that is reliable enough for even the most demanding esports gamer. A single charge on the keyboard can last for up to 40 hours. With Lightsync technology, the user can create personalized RGB lighting animations and control the lighting of each key separately. The Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed comes in three mechanical switch options: GL Tactile, GL Linear, and GL Clicky, from which most people can find their preferred feel and noise levels. Logitech's G915 TKL Lightspeed Gaming Keyboard is one of the company's flagship products.
- Brand
- Logitech
- Wireless
- Yes Lightspeed + Bluetooth
- Backlight
- Yes, RGB
- Media Controls
- Yes
- Num Pad
- No
- Switch Type
- Clicky, Tactile, Linear choices
- Number of Keys
- 104
- Wired operation
- Yes
- Dimensions
- 14.49 x 5.91 x 0.87
- Polling rate
- 1000Hz
- Battery
- Yes
- Compatible Devices
- PC, Mac, Consoles
- Bluetooth
- Yes
- Charging
- Yes, via MicroUSB
- Sturdy, compact design
- Premium build quality
- Excellent battery life with 40 hours on max brightness
- Versatile wireless connectivity
- Replacement keys difficult to find
- Uses Micro USB instead of USB-C
The Logitech G915 TKL low-profile keyboard is the best wireless gaming keyboard we tested. Wireless keyboards and gaming keyboards used to not even be in the same conversation since cord-free devices were too slow and unresponsive in comparison. Thanks to the Logitech G915 TKL, that's no longer the case. Logitech's high-end cordless keyboard is ideal if you desire the convenience of a wireless peripheral without sacrificing performance.
This fully mechanical gaming keyboard is slim and looks amazing in any setup. Plus, the battery life is absolutely killer at 40 hours. If you want to squeeze every last drop of battery life out of this device, the RGB lighting can be disabled for 100 hours of power.
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The only major downside of this keyboard is that the keycaps are not replaceable because they are so slim. So, for those DIY and customizable fans out there, buyers might want to check out the best customizable keyboards with more potential to suit their needs.
HyperX Alloy Origins Gaming Keyboard
The HyperX Alloy Origins is a mechanical gaming keyboard that features custom-designed mechanical key switches that provide a lifetime of 80 million key presses. The Clicky HyperX Blue switches provide distinct feedback. The keyboard includes an RGB lighting system, which can be controlled by an app.
It features a full-sized design with a relatively compact form factor and durable construction with an aircraft-grade aluminum body. The cable is detachable, which makes it more portable.
- Brand
- HyperX
- Wireless
- No
- Backlight
- RGB
- Media Controls
- Yes
- Num Pad
- No
- Switch Type
- Mechanical
- Dimensions
- 17.4 x 5.21 x 1.43 inches
- Wrist rest
- No
- Polling rate
- 1000 Hz
- Affordable considering its build quality and performance
- RGB lighting more visible than other keyboards
- Compact with removable braided USB-C cord
- Lacks extras like wrist rest and media keys
- Software could be improved
Despite advancements in wireless range and stability, sometimes there is no substitute for a wired gaming keyboard, and our favorite here is the HyperX Alloy Origins. This keyboard is not tenkeyless but still quite slim, eliminating dedicated media controls and a volume rocker. While not wireless, the Alloy Origins has a detachable USB-C cable for easier portability.
Instead of relying on Cherry mechanical switches, HyperX depends on its own switches, which balance typing accuracy and the instant feedback gamers prefer. You still have the option to equip the gaming keyboard with Red Linear, Blue Clicky, and Aqua switches.
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RGB is so advanced on mechanical gaming keyboards that manufacturers find it difficult to enhance lighting effects further. Still, HyperX was up for the challenge and constructed its mechanical switches to allow maximum light to shine through the exposed areas between keys. The result is a keyboard that looks just as dazzling from the sides as looking down at it. In the HyperX NGENUITY app, you can customize per-key lighting and activate Game Mode, temporarily disabling distracting lighting and the Windows key to avoid costly alt-tabbing during competitive gaming.
Corsair K100 Air Wireless RGB Ultra
The Corsair K100 Air Wireless RGB Ultra is one of the thinnest full-sized wireless gaming keyboards to hit the marketplace. However, its skinny profile maxing out at just 17 mm doesn't hold back the keyboard in terms of features or performance. The wireless keyboard can connect to PCs or gaming consoles thanks to its tri-mode Slipstream, Bluetooth, or wired connectivity. Regardless of platform, Axon Hyper-Processing technology ensures that the keyboard can process complicated RGB lighting effects while registering keystrokes with total accuracy.
- Brand
- Corsair
- Wireless
- Yes
- Backlight
- Yes
- Media Controls
- Yes
- Battery
- Up to 200 hours
- Num Pad
- Yes
- Switch Type
- CHERRY MX Ultra Low Profile Tactile
- Number of Keys
- 108
- Compatible Devices
- PC, Mac, Xbox, PS4, PS5
- Bluetooth
- Yes
- Wrist rest
- No
- Polling rate
- Up to 8,000 Hz
- More compact than most full-sized keyboard
- Includes dedicated macro keys
- High wireless and wired polling rates
- Excellent battery life
- Not easy to swap keycaps and switches
- Sensitive keys can take getting used to
The proliferation of compact keyboards has made the full-sized keyboard layout begin to fall out of favor. However, number pads are still necessary for gamers who also run businesses or perform mathematical calculations. To find a compromise, the Corsair K100 Air trims its frame and keycaps as much as possible while still offering media keys and dedicated macro buttons.
Even thinner than the Logitech G915, the K100 Air barely rises off the surface of a gaming desk. Its butterfly switches underneath the wafer-thin keycaps are slightly unconventional, and buyers can only choose from a single low-profile tactile Cherry MX switch. Unfortunately, the keycaps are challenging to remove without damage, so the K100 Air isn't one of the more customizable keyboards. Remarkably, the switches still provide some discernable feedback to keypresses, even with a minuscule 0.8 mm actuation distance. If not used to a low-profile keyboard design, it can take an adjustment period to avoid typos, but then effortless, rapid typing usually wins over skeptics.
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The sleek and modern design of the K100 Air is accompanied by cutting-edge wireless performance. Thin keyboards are built for speed and have the best chance of taking advantage of a 2,000 Hz wireless polling rate. In wired mode, the K100 Air inputs commands with even less delay thanks to an 8,000 Hz polling rate. Axon Hyper-Processing ensures the keyboard can handle simultaneous tasks like displaying complicated per-key RGB lighting effects. In addition to its low-latency USB RF dongle, the K100 Air also offers Bluetooth, enabling it to connect to almost any gaming console, mobile phone, or PC.
Despite its more compact nature, the K100 Air is a fully loaded keyboard with four G1-G4 macro keys above the number pad. If gamers desire more button remapping, the iCue app allows them to modify nearly every other input. To make the K100 Air even more of a practical daily driver, it includes a full set of media keys next to a metal volume rocker.
Although pricey, the K100 Air is an exceptionally thin full-sized keyboard with instantaneous wireless typing. Corsair's K100 Air is the best gaming keyboard for gamers seeking a complete array of commands without cluttering a desktop.
Corsair K65 Plus
The Corsair K65 Plus keyboard is the company's 75% PC gaming accessory, boasting hot swappable switches, two layers of sound dampening, and up to 266 hours of battery life (with RGB off).
- Brand
- Corsair
- Wireless
- 2.4GHz Slipstream, Bluetooth
- Battery
- 266 hours without RGB
- Switch Type
- CORSAIR MLX Red
- Replaceable Keys
- Yes
- Dimensions
- 12.59 x 5.35 x 1.37 inches
- Keycaps
- PBT dye-sublimated keycaps
- Polling rate
- 1000 Hz
- Very quiet with red linear switches and sound-dampening foam
- Versatile multi-function dial
- Compact but includes arrow and dedicated function keys
- Hot-swappable PCB board
- RGB lighting doesn't shine through keycaps
- Trails other Corsair keyboards with max 1000 Hz polling rate
Full-sized keyboards occupy too much desk space for some gamers, but ultra-compact keyboards may not be practical either. That's why the 75% form factor of the Corsair K65 Plus is so appealing, preserving a full row of function and arrow keys. The K65 Plus, by default, emphasizes quiet linear typing, but its hot-swappable PCB also welcomes alternate switches.
Instead of relying on only RGB lighting, the K65 Plus has multi-colored keycaps, highlighted by a snazzy Corsair logo on the Escape key. Its overall appearance is more reminiscent of a coding or programming keyboard from Keychron rather than all-black or white gaming gear. Along the same lines, lighting only peeks between the tightly packed keys rather than through the single-shot PBT keycaps. That may not please all gamers, but the keyboard's extensive customization potential and smooth typing performance will win over skeptics.
Although the keycaps are not low-profile like the K100 Air, the MLX red switches are extremely quiet, aided by ample lubrication, sturdy stabilizers, and sound-dampening form. These are many DIY mods that keyboard enthusiasts favor, which will please picky gamers without much free time. If linear-type switches aren't preferable, Corsair includes tools to remove and swap out the existing switches easily.
The K65 Plus maxes out at a 1000 Hz wireless polling rate, which is lower than some of Corsair's highest-end keyboards, including the K70 Pro Mini. Still, its wireless connectivity is multi-faceted, and switching between sources connected to the wireless USB dongle and Bluetooth is simple. Battery life is also impressive, lasting up to 266 hours without RGB lighting active.
Besides including function, arrow, and home keys, the multi-function dial on the K65 Plus further enhances its functionality. Highly customizable in iCue, gamers can program it to replicate media keys or perform other key combinations.
Quiet, stable, and suitable for any gaming or productivity task, the K65 Plus confirms the advantages of the 75% keyboard layout. Game ZXC's review of the K65 Plus found it's just as physically customizable as the wired Razer BlackWidow V4 75% with a more reasonable price tag.
Razer Ornata V3 Gaming Keyboard
The Razer Ornata V3 keyboard is designed with low-profile keys that feature slimmer keycaps and shorter switches. This configuration promotes natural hand positioning and allows for extended usage without causing strain. The keyboard uses Mecha-Membrane switches that combine the clicky feedback of a mechanical switch with the familiar feel of a conventional keyboard.
The keycaps are UV-coated for enhanced durability, offering fade-resistant legends and additional protection against wear and tear from frequent usage. A set of backlit dedicated media keys are available for configuring tasks such as pausing, playing, skipping, and adjusting settings like brightness and volume.
- Brand
- Razer
- Wireless
- No
- Backlight
- Yes
- Media Controls
- Yes
- Num Pad
- Yes
- Switch Type
- Mecha-Membrane
- Number of Keys
- 104
- Dimensions
- 17.46"L x 5.68"W x 1.23"H
- Wrist rest
- Yes
- Polling rate
- 1000 Hz
- Slim low-profile design
- Comfortable wrist-rest
- All keys remappable
- Very loud for a membrane keyboard
- RGB effects are per zone
Membrane keyboards are often scoffed at by experienced gamers but, in reality, remain popular options for casual gamers. One reason these affordable keyboards for gaming are criticized is the mushy feelings of their keys and the lack of distinctive responses to key presses that are the hallmarks of mechanical keyboards. With the wired Razer Ornata V3, the manufacturer tries to find a compromise between membrane and mechanical switches with its Mecha-Membrane keys. The keys on the Ornata V3 definitely replicate the loud clickiness of mechanical switches but also have a more cushioned feel.
Although the Ornata V3 is a fairly slim and low-profile full-sized gaming keyboard, the keys still require more effort to depress than traditional Cherry MX mechanical switches. The latency with this membrane keyboard is more than respectable but still falls short of the lofty standards of the gear competitive gamers like Ninja depend on. What doesn't disappoint is the ability to remap virtually all the keys in the Razer Synapse software, providing a level of customization that matches the best keyboards.
Even without offering many distinguishing features besides its unique Mecha-Membrane keys, the Ornata V3 is excellent all-around gaming gear and a sensible alternative to pricey mechanical keyboards.
Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB
The Freestyle Edge RGB is the first split mechanical keyboard designed specifically for gaming. Gamers can move the right module out of the way for one-handed FPS play or split the modules apart to place a microphone in between for an incredibly comfortable streaming setup. There is no wrong way to set up the Freestyle Edge! This keyboard promises to deliver excellent performance and make sure a gamer's hands are healthy and comfortable.
- Wireless
- No
- Backlight
- Per-Key 16.8M Color RGB Lighting
- Switch Type
- Cherry MX Mechanical
- Dimensions
- 1.25″ tall x 15.5″ wide x 10.25″ deep
- Wrist rest
- Yes
- Wired operation
- USB Type A Wired
- Comfortable ergonomics after getting used to split design
- Padded wrist rest
- Cherry MX switches
- Low latency performance
- Split design has a steep learning curve
- The lift kit is sold separately
Truly ergonomic keyboards and gaming don't often overlap, so when a keyboard like the Kinesis Freestyle Edge comes along, it's time to celebrate. Unsurprisingly, Game ZXC chose it as the best ergonomic gaming keyboard to avoid chronic aches and pains. Not only does the Freestyle Edge keep your wrists and hands healthy and comfortable, but it also has fantastic gaming performance. And, of course, because it's a gaming keyboard, there is a healthy dose of RGB lighting to bring it all together.
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Unfortunately, as an effective ergonomic gaming keyboard, there is quite a large price tag on the Freestyle Edge RGB, but it more than makes up for it with comfort. The split design takes a bit of time to get used to, but typing becomes second nature after some practice. Plus, the padded wrist rest is one of this guide's most plush included palm rests.
When it comes to gaming, the Freestyle Edge comes with a choice of three different Cherry MX switches. All these switches feel fantastic to game on and type with, but Cherry MX Red switches will probably be the best choice for users who plan to primarily game. Plus, with a hot-swappable PCB, these can be changed out for whatever switch is preferred.
Mountain Everest Max Mechanical Keyboard
The Mountain Everest Max mechanical keyboard is a unique offering thanks to its modularity and customizability. It comes with a detachable numpad that can be used on either side of the keyboard. There is a detachable media dock with extra controls and a display, as well as a detachable wrist rest. This wired keyboard has beautiful RGB lighting and solid metal construction.
- Brand
- Mountain
- Wireless
- No
- Backlight
- RGB
- Media Controls
- Yes
- Num Pad
- Detachable
- Switch Type
- Cherry MX
- Replaceable Keys
- Yes, hot-swappable
- Wired operation
- USB Type-C
- Bluetooth
- No
- Keycaps
- ABS, PBT
- Internal Sound Dampening
- Yes
- Wrist rest
- Yes, magnetic with PU leather
- Modular with detachable number pad and media dock
- Stackable magnetic feet under keyboard work well
- Unique physical customization including swappable switches
- Rock-solid build quality
- Software can be unreliable
- Wrist rest is a bit flimsy
Plenty of keyboards claim to be customizable, but few can be completely transformed, like the Mountain Everest Max. This full-sized wired keyboard is anything but compact, but with modular components, it can be downsized as gamers look to streamline their setups. The longevity of the Mountain Everest Max is only enhanced by its heavily reinforced construction.
What draws most onlookers to the Mountain Everest Max are its detachable number pad and media dock. Some gamers prefer to keep a number pad on standby, but having it on the right side of a keyboard can block access to a mouse pad. With this keyboard, it's possible to install this component on USB connectors found on both sides of the device. The included media dock with a display is also removable if users need to clear some space on desktops.
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The magnetic risers underneath the Everest Max are consistent with the innovative design found throughout the keyboard. Unlike plastic feet, which tend to collapse when a keyboard moves, discs combine with spacers to allow for custom height adjustments. At around three pounds, the Everest Max is not particularly portable but easily withstands regular tinkering with components. The only disappointment is that the bundled palm wrest feels flimsy for a chunky keyboard.
The Everest Max doesn't take any risks with its mechanical switches, with the keyboard originally shipping with a variety of clicky, linear, and tactile Cherry MX options. Even if the keyboard is difficult to track down with a preferred switch, gamers can install third-party three-pin switches or five-pin with a bit of trimming.
One common complaint users have with the Everest Max is that its Base Camp software tends to freeze when running updates. Although its reliability has improved since its initial release, limited OS compatibility also makes the app less flexible than the keyboard itself.
Besides some nagging software issues, the Mountain Everest Max towers over other enthusiast keyboards with unmatched physical customization. It's the best gaming keyboard for buyers who can't decide between a TKL or full-size form factor.
Roccat Vulcan II Max Gaming Keyboard
The Roccat Vulcan II Max is a PC gaming keyboard that features an aluminum plate for durability. This keyboard uses Titan II smooth linear switches, with 100 million keystroke durability. The keyboard also has a palm rest for comfort during long gaming sessions. Customizable RGB lighting is also included, which illuminates the keys with millions of colors.
- Brand
- Roccat
- Wireless
- No
- Media Controls
- Yes
- Num Pad
- Yes
- Switch Type
- Optical
- Dimensions
- 18.23 x 9.29 x 1.32 inch
- Wrist rest
- Yes
- Polling rate
- 1000 Hz
- Compatible Devices
- Windows
- USB Passthrough
- No
- RGB on secondary functions and translucent wrist rest
- Quick and smooth typing
- Easy-to-access media controls
- Requires two USB ports
- ABS keycaps rather than Double Shot PBT
The competition is stiff when deciding on the best RGB gaming keyboard, with these devices often being the most noticeable part of an illuminated gaming setup. Fortunately, the Roccat Vulcan II Max is a full-sized gaming keyboard that demonstrates how RGB lighting can be taken to a new level. In addition to its stunning good looks, the keyboard boasts blistering, fast typing, and a remarkable number of secondary functions.
While the Vulcan II Max occupies considerable space on a desktop, its thin aluminum frame gives it a more minimalist look. The slim keycaps also contribute to the keyboard's low-profile appearance and enhance the visibility of RGB effects. There are a few other aspects to the design of the Vulcan II Max that separate it from other RGB keyboards. The translucent wrist rest isn't the plushest, but its clear silicon exterior allows lighting from the edge of the keyboard to shine through. More functional, 24 of the keys on the Vulcan II Max feature dual LEDs that indicate when Easy-Shift [+] has unlocked additional commands.
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Gamers hoping for a loud mechanical device will find the Vulcan II Max too quiet of a keyboard. Its linear and tactile switch options emphasize quick, smooth gaming performance rather than loud, clattering typing. Actuation distance is lower with linear keys, but combined with the low-profile keycaps, the result with both switches is effortless typing. The keycaps are ABS rather than Double Shot PBT and, with a smooth texture, tend to become slippery.
Critics of the Vulcan II Max could say that the keyboard's light show negatively impacts its usability. Because the RGB effects are so powerful, two USB 2.0 ports are required, even without a USB passthrough port. Regardless, extensive per-key functions and well-spaced media controls make the Vulcan II Max practical inside and outside of gaming.
Still Can't Decide on a Gaming Keyboard?
It's difficult to remember a time when there was no such thing as a gaming keyboard. Rather sad-looking beige or white office keyboards once ruled the scene until manufacturers realized they neglected gamers. Office keyboards now look far more sophisticated, but the gaming peripherals market has truly exploded. Of course, the problem is that, with so many gaming keyboards, this competition also creates confusion. To sort through the chaos, remember to focus on these qualities:
Membrane vs. Mechanical
An available budget can often eliminate some premium gaming keyboards immediately, ruling out the Asus ROG Azoth. Gamers without considerable funds may have to settle for a membrane keyboard like the Corsair K55 Core RGB, but even lower-priced keyboards can offer stellar build quality and durability. More cash opens the door for mechanical gaming keyboards with a choice of switches with various noise levels and actuation points. The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro is the ultimate example of a mechanical gaming keyboard that demands a high price but delivers innovative features like dual-action keys depending on how much force is applied.
Form Factor
Keyboards come in many different forms, with full-sized models like the Corsair K100 Air providing media keys even with a low-profile design. Keyboards with standard layouts vary considerably in size, with the HyperX Alloy Origins surprisingly slim and compact despite a full suite of keys. If a gamer doesn't need a number pad or spacious layout, they can reclaim valuable room for mice with a 75 percent keyboard. The small but practical wireless Corsair K65 Plus includes a complete row of function keys and arrow keys to make navigating large documents less painful.
Wired or Wireless
Top-rated keyboards are pricey enough when wired, but wireless versions of the same devices can run more than $200. The Asus ROG Azoth demands a serious investment. However, in return, gamers receive Tri-Mode wireless connectivity and the ability to swap not only keycaps but also the switches underneath them. If a wired keyboard is preferable, it's hard to go wrong with the Roccat Vulcan II Max, a playground for creative gamers with the most expansive canvas of RGB lighting.
Customization
Some gamers are willing to pay a premium for a keyboard they can mold into their perfect gaming weapon. The Corsair K65 Plus is one of the most customizable keyboards, allowing enthusiasts to completely swap out its mechanical switches with three or five-pin alternatives. An even more customizable keyboard, the Mountain Everest Max encourages gamers to change the position of its modular number pad and media dock.
Game ZXC settled on the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro as the overall top gaming keyboard because it best represents the innovation and reliable performance gamers expect. Regardless of what keyboard a buyer settles on, there has never been a more diverse selection of keyboards than gamers enjoy today.
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FAQ
Q: What key switches are best for gaming?
Most gamers agree that mechanical switches provide the best gaming performance while giving them instant feedback to keypresses. However, there are many variations of mechanical keyboard switches, with some being tuned for the most rapid inputs or for the quietest operation.
Q: Can I use a gaming keyboard with a console?
Absolutely! Just make sure to look very closely at compatibility settings when you research your keyboard and systems online. Make sure they have a way to logically connect, and ensure that your keyboard information specifically states what consoles it works on and how. Not all keyboards have this option, so it can save time and money to be careful about your purchases.
Q: What keyboard do most pros use?
Most competitive gamers rely on mechanical gaming keyboards since they offer a high level of performance, customization, and style. There isn't a single keyboard brand that dominates gaming tournaments, but Razer, Logitech, and Corsair have formed many partnerships with esports pros and teams.