There's not that much space between the keys.
From aesthetics and comfort to performance and utility, the Corsair K70 runs circles around most premium keyboards, which makes sense since the price puts this product above them too. Still, even with the not necessarily affordable price, this is as good as gaming keyboards get.
CHERRY™ MX Brown mechanical switches
Aircraft-grade anodised brushed aluminium frame, plastic matte keycaps
Wired (~2 metre USB cable)
Full Key (NKRO) with 100% anti-ghosting
RGB per-key backlighting
Programmable with Corsair iCUE software, 8MB profile storage, detachable soft-touch wrist rest, FPS and MOBA keycap sets, dedicated volume and multimedia controls, built-in USB port
2 years
The Razer mechanical membrane keyboard with 16.8 million backlit colours and a choice of effects. It includes the fully programmable keys for custom profiles, key bindings and macros.
The driver installation is inconvenient.
This model allows you to improve the performance and gameplay efficiency in MOBA games, shooters and MMORPGs. Personalise your keyboard and enjoy more immersive gaming with dynamic lighting effects. This unit is ideal for avid gamers and PC users.
Razer™ hybrid mecha-membrane switch
Plastic housing with plastic matte keycaps
Wired (~2 metre USB cable)
N-key roll over
RGB per-key backlighting
Fully programmable keys, Profile storage, Detachable soft-touch wrist rest, FPS and MOBA keycap sets, Dedicated volume and multimedia controls
2 years
A convenient keyboard for which you don't need to install any drivers. It features the quick macro recording and full anti-ghosting mode n-key rollover. The keyboard comes with a detachable USB-C to Type-A cable and is compatible with all OS.
The stabiliser sound is annoying.
The keyboard offers the 61-key layout with individual backlight for any passionate gamer. It has the water- and dust-resistant design to protect against spilled drinks while playing. Easily connect it to your PC and consoles.
Gateron optical switches
Plastic housing with plastic matte keycaps
Wired (~1.8 metre USB cable)
Full Key (NKRO) with 100% Anti-Ghosting
RGB per-key backlighting
Fully programmable keys, Profile storage, Detachable soft-touch wrist rest, FPS and MOBA keycap sets, Dedicated volume and multimedia controls
2 years
The 8-key roll-over is passable but not great by today's standards.
The Corsair K55 is what you take with you on the path to victory when you're working with ~50 quid yet do not wish to accept serious compromises. The keyboard looks terrific and, as long as you're fine with its membrane switches, works terrific too.
Rubber Dome membrane switches
Plastic housing with plastic matte keycaps
Wired (~2 metre USB cable)
8-Key Selective (8KRO)
Three-zone RGB backlighting
Programmable with Corsair iCUE software, 8MB profile storage, detachable soft-touch wrist rest, dust- and spill-resistant design with IP42-rated protection, 6 programmable macro keys, dedicated volume and multimedia controls
2 years
The Mech-Dome™ switches' tactile response is quick and pleasant, mimicking mechanical switches but without producing as much noise as they do. The LightSync™ RGB backlighting features five separate zones that you can adjust and customise to match the setting.
The wrist rest is not removable.
Logitech have always been great at producing affordable peripherals that can not only trade blows but sometimes even outclass much more expensive competition. This is where the Logitech G213 Prodigy lands, pretty cheap price-wise yet expensive performance-wise.
Logitech Mech-Dome™ switches
Plastic housing with plastic matte keycaps
Wired (~1.8 metre USB cable)
13-key roll-over
Five-zone LightSync™ RGB backlighting
Customisable with Logitech G HUB software, spill-resistant protective membrane, integrated palm rest, dedicated volume and multimedia controls
2 years
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Corsair K70 RGB MK.2
The Toughest Lightweight Champ
The Corsair K70 ups the ante, outclassing even most premium models from most perspectives. From performance to aesthetics to comfort, this device comes out victorious against any competition. The keyboard looks great, so that's where we'll start.
First, the model's constructed from aircraft-grade anodised brushed aluminium frame. That means you can throw this 'board against the walls, slam without holding back when you suspect the competition is cheating or when the shots are not landing, you can put this device through the most inexcusable abuse without worrying about its safety. Now, we're not saying that the plastic matte keys and the RGB lighting modules inside will be able to withstand that abuse, so we might be somewhat exaggerating here but the housing can easily handle anything along these lines.
As you can tell, the keyboard looks brilliant, even compared to the company's previous high-end gaming models and most premium gaming keyboards. The RGB lights are vivid, the finish looks sleek and polished, even the bottom has this somewhat aggressive design that adds appearance points when you flip the keyboard. What's more, you can change every key's backlighting, which means the device offers endless customisation options.
Textured and Contoured Keys
More often than not, high-end gaming devices look comparable, with analogous tech and features. But the best keyboards are the ones that can stand out even from the most expensive, cutting-edge crowd. This one stands out with its FPS and MOBA keyset caps, featuring textured and contoured keycaps that ensure excellent grip and enhanced tactile impression.
What also separates this device is its 100% anti-ghosting with full-key roll-over, meaning that you can press every single key at the same time and the keyboard will have no issues registering separate clicks anyway. That's also great because there's not that much space between the keys. They're not necessarily close but not as apart as before, so you'll accidentally pressing two keys from time to time.
Besides that, it is all about the little things, like the Windows key lock mode that prevents you from accessing Windows and the Context menu using the corresponding keys. It is also about the detachable wrist rest that is soft and pleasant to the touch, so you can extend the longest gaming marathons even further.
All things considered, the Corsair K70 is not cheap, we'll admit that. But since everything here is a cut above even compared to the best keyboards, you can see why you might feel inclined to pay the elevated price.
Additional Info
Last updated price | £149.99 |
Stock | In stock |
ASIN | B07DNKFQL1 |
Razer RZ03-03380300-R3W1
Use It as You Want It
A good gaming keyboard is no less important than the powerful graphics card or RAM. The Razer Ornata V2 is pretty much everything you’d want from one; easily customisable and backed up with a nice backlighting, it takes your gaming experience to an entirely new level (literally).
The mecha-membrane switches in this keyboard make it precise and comfortable to the touch with the nice clicky feedback. The keys are big enough for larger hands, and the full-size board gives you instant access to important functions. Whether you’re using it for fun or work, you’ll get exactly what you’re looking for.
Another big plus of the Ornata V2 is that it’s highly customisable. The media keys plus the multifunctional digital wheel give you the freedom to program, and you can tweak the brightness and volume with absolute ease. Amazing for the avid gamers who simply don’t have time to fuss with the keyboard.
If you want to tailor your keyboard even further, use the Razer Synapse 3 to map the desired functions. Make it match your play style 100% and give your gaming another welcome boost.
Any Colour You Like
What really sets the Ornata V2 apart from the cheaper models is the amazing 16.8 million colour lighting. Try the Razer Chroma RGB once, and you wouldn’t want to go back to your boring standard keyboard. Customise it the way you need – or pick one of the handsome pre-sets and enjoy it a.s.a.p. The only thing to be improved is the brightness that could be somewhat higher.
Is the Ornata V2 easy to use? Absolutely. The ergonomic shape and a handy wrist rest make for the smooth and comfy gaming without overstraining the muscles. And did you know that the wrist rest is plush leatherette? Well, now you definitely do. It snaps magnetically to the keyboard, being extra practical in use.
The functional software for the Ornata V2 stays up to date with frequent updates. The drivers, however, are a bit of a let-down, as they are pretty hard to install. Apart from these issues, you’ll love how much you can do with this device – and how you can tailor it to your unique gaming needs.
Overall, this multifunctional keyboard by Razer is a stylish and highly customisable unit that gives your gaming a big buff.
Additional Info
Last updated price | $0.00 |
Stock | In stock |
ASIN | B087DJ4HQ8 |
HK GAMING GK61
Make Gaming Even More Fun
Looking for a keyboard that looks impressive and doesn’t drag out the response time? Enter the HK GAMING GK61 unit. It’s super-fast and extra practical, giving you the full RGB backlighting while you game.
To start with, this keyboard features the lightning-fast response, immensely helping you in shooters and other action titles. The Gatreon optical switches that swap without soldering or desoldering can be easily replaced with other optical units. They are mega durable, lasting for 100 million keystrokes. Additionally, the keys are shaped with curves to boost the comfort and accuracy.
Backlighting makes your gaming much more fun, and the 16.8 colour combinations let you tailor it to your unique tastes. There are multiple effects, and you’re free to adjust the brightness anyway you want. Make beating games more colourful (pun intended), and the keyboard will do the rest.
What’s more, this practical device can be used right out of the box. No drivers, just plug & play; exactly what you need to dive into the game as soon as the delivery arrives at your doorstep.
Fully Functional Keyboard
Want to program your keyboard as you like? Absolutely no issue with the GK61. The macro recording and software customisations give you the full freedom to pick one of the 61 keys and attach a new function to it. Boost your gaming even more by remapping the keys according to your needs.
The other feature you’ll love is the full anti-ghosting mode n-key rollover. Thanks to this, your MMO and FPS gaming experience will skyrocket. The keyboard is extra responsive and supports your fast reaction in action-based games.
What’s more, this device is spill- and dust resistant. If you get carried away and tip over your cup of coffee, you won’t have to buy another one. A nice touch for those who get immersed in games 100%. The only design issue to keep in mind is that the stabilisers are not exactly pleasant and produce a rattling sound when used.
The GK61 can be easily connected to a gaming PC or console. It comes with a detachable USB-C to Type-A cable.
Summing up, the practical keyboard by HK GAMING is a solid find if you want the full speed and comfort of a smart device. Get one for yourself – or make it a great birthday gift to a teen or adult gamer.
Additional Info
Last updated price | $0.00 |
Stock | In stock |
ASIN | B07QYHM32Q |
Corsair K55
Quiet yet not Quite Modest
The Corsair K55 is almost three times less expensive than its relative that we've examined above, so expecting comparable specs is not something we'd recommend. That said, considering the mid-range price, the keyboard is pretty good, provided you do not mind membrane switches. With these switches, you have to push the button all the way through to make sure the input is registered and the command is executed, something that you cannot say about mechanical switches. What you also cannot say about mechanical switches though is call them quiet.
Not unlike most membrane switches, these keyboard's ones are practically silent, so you can game even with people sleeping metres away from you without disturbing them. Plus, they're pretty responsive (compared to membrane switches), meaning that you won't be forced to slam them to make sure the input has been registered. Apart from that, the model's shortcomings are limited to the 8-key roll-over, which is passable but not great by today's standards.
The device's construction is more than passable though, with dust- and spill-resistant IP42-rated housing guarding the circuitry against any accidents involving liquids and preventing any issues that arise from non-existent maintenance. While its plastic housing may not look the part, the model is pretty tough, so you can throw this one inside the backpack and bring with you to any LAN without fretting about what the road might do to the keyboard. You'll also be able to remove the wrist rest, making transportation more accessible and, when adjusted back to the keyboard, pampering the wrist with its soft texture that's both easy and pleasant on the skin.
Controls Galore
Borrowing a page from Logitech's G-series book, this keyboard comes adopting six programmable keys on the left side. You can remap these keys, from adding different macros to them to any command you want. On the right side, somewhat opposing these keys but also not quite because they're above the numpad, you'll find dedicated volume and multimedia controls, nothing we've not seen before but we something we're always glad to find since these keys can streamline interactions with music and movies playing in the background, so you can manage them without alt-tabbing from the game.
Again, the Corsair K55 is cheap compared to most gaming keyboards that actually deserve that "gaming" title yet can compete with them on most fields, even though its membrane switches is something that certain gamers might not be willing to accept today.
Additional Info
Last updated price | £36.99 |
Stock | In stock |
ASIN | B01N3ML307 |
Logitech G213 Prodigy
Raising Prodigies
The Logitech G213 Prodigy is not quite as prodigious as the name suggests but only because the model's predecessors were already pretty impressive to begin with. The MMO crowd has been acquainted with Logitech's G-series for decades now, using the G-keys to bind macros and remap them to make sure you have more skills accessible within reach. Nowadays, even though the name is still there, the company's G-series is not always featuring these G-keys, catering to the entire gaming crowd and not only the MMO enthusiasts.
This keyboard is massive and we're not referring to the model's size alone, even though the size is pretty massive too. The issue here is that, while we like the wrist rest because it is generous and comfortable, the rest is not removable, so taking this keyboard with you entails certain challenges. Measuring 21.8 x 45.2 x 3.3 centimetres, the device should fit most bags and backpacks but the fit will be pretty tight. The feet are adjustable though, with two different levels allowing you to find the height that feels right and works for you on any surface. What's also attractive about the model's construction is its spill-resistant protective membrane, protecting the circuits and the electronics inside from merciless soda pops, coffee spills, and more.
While the G-keys are gone, the keyboard comes fitted with dedicated volume and multimedia keys, so you can play, pause, and skip tracks without minimising the game, adjust the volume, and more.
Mech-Dome™ Switches
Keyboards are as good as the switches inside them and the model's Mech-Dome™ switches are brilliant compared to anything within this price bracket. Specially tuned, these switches are offering an excellent tactile response that compares to mechanical switches but without the noise that comes from mechanical models. The full-height keys are featuring 4-millimetre travel distance and 50-gramme actuation force. They're quick and responsive, so most players will not even be able to tell the difference between these mecha-membrane switches and ordinary mecha switches except that they are not as loud.
Meanwhile, the keyboard is adopting five separate lighting zones that you can customise individually to match the palette and the brightness levels with the style, system, and space you're occupying. The five-zone LightSync™ RGB backlighting can be accessed via Logitech G HUB software where you can save and load different profiles.
In short, you do not have to be a gaming prodigy to put the Logitech G213 Prodigy to good use.
Additional Info
Last updated price | £40.35 |
Stock | In stock |
ASIN | B01L6L451Q |
Infographics
What Is a Gaming Keyboard?
Gaming keyboards are specifically designed to provide an exciting computer gaming experience. A good gaming keyboard will do the job for you, whether you are all into hardcore gaming, or simply like spending an hour or two at your computer playing games.
To unleash your full gaming potential, a gaming keyboard must combine perfect ergonomics and maximum performance. Such keyboards provide better feel, faster response time and more key actions than conventional keypads, allowing using a keyboard comfortably for long hours. Gaming keyboards stand out from the others by their design that combines an eye-catching look, extra dedicated switches and other gamer-friendly features. The switches, such as macros or multimedia keys, are usually grouped into separate blocks on the keyboard. Another attractive perk of gaming keyboards is a backlighting, often customizable with various colours and effects. A backlit gaming keyboard has a flashy look and sets off the keys — playing or typing in the dark is not an issue. Even if you're not in need for all the bells and whistles of a pro gaming keyboard, you will enjoy the convenience it adds to your everyday business and leisure.
We also recommend you to see our best gaming mouse review. A decent mouse, paired with the right gaming keyboard, will make your gaming process even more comfortable and enthralling.
What Features to Compare
The design of the keys is the first thing we recommend checking. Among the variety of switch types, there are two most popular types of gaming keyboards:
- Mechanical gaming keyboards considered to be the best for gamers. Mechanical gaming keyboards feature individual switches under each key, with key actions triggered by sufficient typing force. Most mechanical gaming keyboards benefit you with more than 50 million keystrokes. Mechanical keyboards are also perfect for typing as they feature a very good keystroke response.
- Membrane gaming keyboards have a softer feel and quieter key actions than mechanical switches. They will serve you for up to 10 million keystrokes, featuring a considerably lower price. If you’re a non-hardcore gamer, a decent membrane keyboard can be sufficient for you.
Extra features should also be considered when choosing a gaming keyboard. The best gaming keyboards feature additional keys which you’ll never see on a conventional keyboard, such as macros keys. Using macros keys with the appropriate software allows you to set up and customise a variety of keyboard shortcuts, making your gaming process more pleasant and simple. The keyboard can also have audio output and microphone input ports, as well as USB ports which make it easy to connect your headphones, mic, or gaming mouse directly to the keyboard. A gaming keyboard might also have buttons for multimedia control, allowing you to switch tracks, pause or resume the playback when you’re listening to music or watching videos — a convenient option every fan of multimedia will definitely enjoy. Gaming keyboards are mainly connected to a gaming station via USB interfaces since a good response is essential for good gaming experience. Some gaming keyboards may also provide wireless Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to use the keyboard remotely and enjoy gaming from the comfort of your couch.
You might also want to pay attention to the backlight and housing design of your chosen gaming keyboard. Gaming keyboards may feature numerous options for backlighting. Depending on what gaming keyboard you choose, you can fully customise the backlighting colour, backlight separate zones or the keys you use most often. You can even create your own visual effects, such as light waves or pulsation. Match the backlighting with your gaming style, set up different backlight options for different games or simply switch it off. As regards the housing design of gaming keyboards, they are generally made of durable plastic to reduce weight and facilitate transportation. Every pro gamer can benefit by using gaming keyboards of their own — they are more familiar to use and, with all the settings saved, require no extra tuning.
Sources:
1. Marshall Honorof How Do You Game? Tom's Guide. February 2, 2016.
2. Alan Henry How to Choose the Best Mechanical Keyboard, Lifehacker. April 6, 2013.
3. Kyle Rollins Gaming Keyboards: The Advantages of a Mechanical Keyboard, TopTenReviews. September 10, 2015.
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