Most modern PC cases, gaming keyboards, and mice are black, but that hasn't always been the case. Beige and off-white peripherals dominated the 1980s and '90s before darker-colored gaming accessories became fashionable. Unsurprisingly, some gamers are again desperate for a change, and a white gaming keyboard can inject new life into an ordinary-looking setup.

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The good news is that many top mechanical keyboards come in white variations. Some models are specifically made to take advantage of this color scheme with different keycaps for an even more distinctive look. However, buyers shouldn't only prioritize appearance when choosing a white keyboard. To decide on the ideal bright but feature-packed keyboard, consider these factors first:

Game ZXC's Picks for the Best White Gaming Keyboards in 2024

This Logitech G715 wireless keyboard is not simply an alternate white version of an existing model. As part of the Aurora collection, it joins a group of Logitech headsets and keyboards that seek to cure the boredom of all-black gaming setups. While the G715 appeals to content creators and streamers, its rock-solid build quality and low-latency typing make it an option for competitive gamers.

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Utilizing the TKL form factor without a number pad, the G715 balances ultra-compact 60% and full-sized layouts. However, the keycaps are set rather close to each other, so gamers with big hands might be more prone to typos. The somewhat crowded layout doesn't negatively affect the G715's per-key RGB effects, which combine with a stripe of underglow lighting for a spectacular display. Besides the essential keys, the G715 has dedicated keys towards its top edge, including media buttons and a volume rocker. The keyboard may seem to prioritize watching videos and listening to music, but an adjacent game button disables keys that could interfere with competitive gaming.

The G715 doesn't take many chances with its GX switches, which closely resemble Clicky, Linear, and Tactile Cherry MX switches. Although the switches are not swappable, gamers have a decent number of options, whether they prefer loud and definitive or quieter and smoother typing. Logitech Lightspeed's wireless USB receiver provides a reliable, low-latency connection for rapid-fire gaming. Knowing the G715 will become part of trendy workstations, Logitech's keyboard also offers Bluetooth to pair with mobile devices.

Besides the keyboard being a bit too small for some gamers, other buyers might not appreciate the G715's cloud-shaped palm rest. Comfort is not the issue with this included accessory, but its unconventional shape means it can't sit flush against a keyboard's bottom edge. Even so, gamers can simply use another wrist rest or change out the G715's top plate and keycaps if the default aesthetic isn't appealing.

Without a black option and bundled with an unusual palm rest, the Logitech G715 is not a keyboard that plays it safe. Still, its superior build quality, responsive typing, and brilliant RGB lighting make the G715 the best white gaming keyboard.

Gamers with white setups may also seek to differentiate themselves with a highly customizable hot-swappable keyboard. The Asus ROG Azoth is a wireless 75% keyboard that is a great option for budding hardware enthusiasts. Even if gamers have no interest in replacing its NX mechanical switches, the ROG Azoth impresses with class-leading battery life and perks like a versatile OLED display.

The white version of ROG Azoth features a smattering of gray keycaps to please buyers who find all-white designs too jarring. RGB lighting shines clearly through the sturdy Doubleshot PBT keycaps with secondary functions printed on their base. This helps make the 75% form factor even more practical, but the compact OLED screen steals most of the attention. Gamers can monitor battery status and other vital system information without loading the often laborious Armory Crate app.

As attractive as the ROG Azoth's exterior is, Asus spent just as much effort reinforcing the keyboard's internals. In the past, some enterprising gamers would insulate these devices with layers of foam to soften the sound of clicky mechanical keyboards. Fortunately, Asus doesn't require a DIY project with the ROG Azoth, as it comes with these materials pre-installed. Exposing the keyboard's gasket mount design takes less effort, which allows buyers to swap switches with alternate hardware. Regardless of the switch in question, typing is responsive enough to dominate any FPS title.

The best wireless keyboards, like the ROG Azoth, have found ways to extend battery life with more efficient connectivity. Incredibly, gamers can rely on this keyboard for 2,000 hours without recharging, although RGB lighting and the OLED screen will reduce that mark. Bluetooth won't produce the same ultra-low-latency performance, but it makes connecting this portable keyboard to multiple devices easier.

Software that is almost universally loathed and a high asking price are the only drawbacks of the Asus ROG Azoth. However, the white keyboard is packed with cutting-edge technology and simplifies the process of creating customized gaming gear.

The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL is not a newcomer to the mechanical keyboard scene, but the Ghost white version can refresh a stale setup. Besides providing the reliability of a wired device, this SteelSeries keyboard has plenty of flair with an OLED screen and partially translucent keycaps. Gamers who seek a well-built mechanical keyboard that fully commits to the white color scheme should flock to the Apex 7 TKL.

Unlike the black Apex 7 TKL, the Ghost variety ships with only Red Linear mechanical switches. These switches emphasize the rapid performance needed for competitive gaming. However, some gamers find that they are slightly louder than competing Red Linear switches but somehow mushier as well. Nevertheless, buyers will feel like they are typing on an especially solid platform, with the Apex 7 TKL using a heavy dose of aluminum alloy.

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Gamers with white-dominated rigs often want to make their gaming desks even more noticeable with bright RGB lighting. SteelSeries goes the extra mile with the Apex 7 TKL, with per-key illumination that escapes through the clear sides of the Doubleshot PBT keycaps. The smooth white wrist rest has no RGB effects of its own, but the sleek accessory attaches seamlessly with magnets.

Like the wireless Asus ROG Azoth, the Apex 7 TKL also includes a compact OLED screen in its upper right corner. Still, it's even more well-supported by games and applications, and users can even toggle between RGB effects with visual confirmations. Another advantage this keyboard has over the competition is its refreshingly intuitive software. SteelSeries Engine runs smoothly and keeps clutter to a minimum, with most settings accessible on a few screens.

As a wired gaming keyboard, the Apex 7 TKL allows users to continuously keep its OLED screen and brilliant RGB lighting on. SteelSeries tries to keep white setups clean with several cable pathways underneath the keyboard.

With a sturdy construction and stunning appearance, buyers shouldn't be scared to invest in the Apex 7 TKL Ghost. The Apex 7 TKL Ghost is the best white keyboard to improve the look of the most distinctive gaming rigs.

Many white keyboards are higher-end models that can quickly add to the cost of assembling a cohesively themed rig. However, there are far more affordable white budget keyboards, like the MSI Vigor GK30, which simulates typing on a mechanical keyboard. Reasonably durable and sporting some of the best RGB lighting in this price bracket, the Vigor GK30 is an irresistible value.

Manufacturers take various approaches to making membrane keyboards more appealing to gamers. With the Vigor GK30, MSI builds a plunger-like mechanism by combining rubber domes with sliding plastic components. The result is a typing experience that is no substitute for a clicky mechanical keyboard, but key presses don't feel as mushy. Also, while not as loud as Green mechanical switches, the Vigor GK30 is audible enough to fool some acquaintances into thinking it's a premium keyboard. These mecha-membrane keys exhibit some wobbling, but thanks to some anti-slip feet on the keyboard's bottom, it resists sliding around like other cheap membrane keyboards.

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The Vigor GK30 is a full-sized keyboard, but there are few extraneous keys, with indicator lights occupying the space where media keys could be. Gamers must resort to hotkeys for many secondary functions, but commands are easy to locate on this standard layout.

RGB lighting on the Vigor GK30 works via a six-zone system, with some added effects visible on an LED strip below the keyboard's number and arrow keys. The keys rise far enough above the device's surface and are spaced adequately, keeping the lighting more visible. As a result of this floating design, this water-resistant keyboard is also relatively straightforward to maintain.

The durable and brightly lit MSI Vigor GK30 is the top white keyboard among budget contenders. It's a much better option than a membrane office keyboard, making a slightly more premium gaming keyboard experience accessible to all gamers. Buyers can frequently get a better deal on the Vigor GK30 with a keyboard and mouse duo when bundled with the Clutch GM11 gaming mouse.

Competitive gamers usually can do without most non-essential keys, which is why 60% keyboards like the Corsair K70 Pro Mini are so appealing. The ultra-compact design of this wireless keyboard doesn't prevent it from having a typing performance superior to that of some full-sized competitors. Also, it offers an unmatched level of physical customization, encouraging buyers to craft the white keyboard of their dreams.

Certain compromises are unavoidable with a 60% keyboard, but Corsair tries to make the K70 Pro Mini as usable as possible. Without arrow keys, gamers will extensively rely on the Fn key in tandem with secondary functions side printed on keys. Unfortunately, the position of this modifier key in the lower right section of the device can make it difficult to execute commands. However, powerful iCue software addresses the issue somewhat, making it possible to remap virtually every key.

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The K70 Pro Mini is available with four different Cherry MX switches, but buyers may encounter a more limited selection with the white version. Even so, because the keyboard is hot-swappable like the Asus ROG Azoth, owners can replace the Blue, Brown, or Red switches with any 3-pin alternative. Most other customizations for the K70 Pro Mini are cosmetic, which can take the look of this white keyboard to the next level. If buyers want to make its design more dynamic, they can change the color of the accent bar on the rear of the device on Corsair's website. Less fussy gamers will still be wowed by per-key RGB lighting and a light bar extending around the keyboard's base.

Gamers desperate to gain an edge on opponents will appreciate the K70 Pro Mini's above-average polling rates. Corsair's Slipstream low-latency wireless protocol and Axon Hyper-Processing help to make a wireless 2000 Hz polling rate possible. Buyers with fast enough PCs will see furious typing registered instantaneously, with an 8000 Hz polling rate activated with the detachable USB-C cord plugged in. Even the keyboard's Bluetooth connection has reasonable lag, and its extremely portable shape is ideal for commuting office workers.

Build quality that's on the level of the heaviest full-sized mechanical keyboards only adds to the value of the K70 Pro Mini. Whether space is at a premium or a gamer hopes to become more competitive, the small but mighty white wireless keyboard rises to the challenge. If buyers think the layout of the K70 Pro Mini is a bit too restrictive, they can read Game ZXC's review of the 75% Corsair K65 Plus or consider the Razer BlackWidow V4.

There are an increasing number of customizable mechanical keyboards on the market, with minimal differences between many. Even so, the Razer BlackWidow V4 bests them with unique tactile switches and a more versatile hot-swappable PCB board. Embracing the 75% design, this wired keyboard requires few compromises in crowded gaming setups.

One criticism some gamers have about the black version of the BlackWidow V4 is that it looks rather plain, even with RGB lighting active. The white version of the keyboard retains the straight-edged, boxy look of its darker counterpart, but its coloring alone will garner more attention. Surprisingly, the BlackWidow V4 includes ABS rather than extra durable PBT keycaps, but they permit more RGB lighting to shine through. Although its underglow lighting doesn't extend to the plush wrist rest, the overall light show impresses and can be personalized in the powerful Razer Synapse software.

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Of more practical importance, Razer manages to stuff a volume rocker and a pair of media keys in this compact keyboard's upper right corner. The BlackWidow V4 also has a top row of function and arrow keys, so it's a painless way to downsize from a full-sized keyboard.

The BlackWidow V4 is more accommodating to enthusiasts than the Corsair K70 Pro Mini, as its default Orange Tactile switches are interchangeable with three or five-pin substitutes. The only issue is once gamers try out Razer's latest mechanical switches, they may see no reason to swap them. Green switches are too loud for some users, while more timid Red linear switches don't always impress either. The Orange switches on the BlackWidow V4 respond with a tactile bump with minimal effort but without being overly loud. Pounding on this keyboard is also muted because of a pre-installed tape mod and foam that absorbs vibrations.

Buyers may hesitate to spend several hundred dollars on a smaller wired keyboard. Nevertheless, the white BlackWidow V4 offers innovative switches with mass appeal and an unmatched level of customization.

How to Find the Perfect White Keyboard

Logitech G715 gaming keyboard in three colroways

Gamers transitioning to white gaming accessories may be concerned that few qualified gaming keyboards exist. In reality, there are enough choices to make a buyer's head spin, including budget and premium solutions. The easiest way to sort through the crop of white keyboards is to focus on these characteristics:

Form Factor

Surprisingly, full-sized white keyboards like the wired MSI Vigor GK30 are sometimes highly affordable. While the Vigor GK30 doesn't have true mechanical switches, it includes a full array of function keys and a number pad. Unfortunately, conventional keyboards can occupy significant real estate on a desktop, which is why 60% keyboards exist. The wireless Corsair K70 Pro Mini has only the most essential keys that gamers need, but clever macros can compensate for its lack of functionality.

Wired vs. Wireless

With the corded SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL, gamers don't have to worry about battery life. Considering it needs to power an OLED screen for notifications and RGB lighting, buyers can enjoy these perks without constant recharging. Still, when cable management is a priority, there is no substitute for a wireless keyboard. The Asus ROG Azoth has remarkable battery life, even with a similar OLED display and low-latency typing that rivals any wired competitor.

Customization

The ultimate customizable keyboard is the Razer BlackWidow 4 75%, which contains a PCB board compatible with three or five-pin mechanical switches. Gamers who enjoy DIY projects will flock to this white keyboard because it allows them to type with varying degrees of speed and satisfying clicks. If cosmetic upgrades are more appealing, then the Corsair K70 Pro Mini has modular components, including rear-side accent bars of various colors.

RGB Lighting

One of the main reasons Game ZXC's chose the Logitech G715 as the best white keyboard is its generous use of RGB lighting. Its keys have legends that shine proudly with a vast array of unique RGB effects and underglow lighting casts even more illumination on mouse pads. Also, the cloud-shaped palm rest that ships with the G715 doesn't light up, but it can add a finishing touch to an evolving white gaming setup.

Gamers with white keyboards, mice, and PC cases aren't usually ones that easily give into norms. With strong opinions on how gaming gear should look and perform, the Logitech G715 is the most likely to satisfy these most particular buyers.

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FAQ

Q: Do white keyboards get dirty?

White keyboards don't get dirty faster than black ones, but grime and dirt buildup are more noticeable. On the other hand, dust is more obvious when it collects on black keyboards. Look for mechanical keyboards with durable, removable keycaps that are more likely to stand the test of time with occasional maintenance.

Q: Why were beige and off-white gaming keyboards so popular in the 1980s and 90s?

One explanation is that most desktop PCs and cases were the same color, and manufacturers sometimes bundled accessories with these systems. Also, beige and off-white were neutral colors that designers thought would have mass appeal before flashy gaming keyboards became popular.

Q: Why are white PC parts so expensive?

White components like cases, CPU coolers, keyboards, and mice aren't always sold for a higher retail price than black alternatives. However, they are often in shorter supply and less likely to be discounted or found at sale prices.