Finding the best gaming keyboard is certainly worthwhile if you're playing, or planning to get into, some of the fantastic titles available on PC.
Upgrading from your standard keyboard is almost a necessity if you're interested in increasing your odds of victory, much in the same way that getting the best PC headset improves your chances when playing First Person Shooters online.
The great news is that just like PC gaming monitors these devices double up when it comes to functionality. Many of the gaming keyboards out there can prove super satisfying and efficient to type on too, so you often get more bang for your buck!
Let's get into it!
Best Gaming Keyboard 2021
- Razer Huntsman V2 Analog
- Redragon K552 Gaming Keyboard
- Roccat Pyro
- Asus ROG Claymore II
- SteelSeries Apex Pro
- Logitech G413 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
- Cougar Attack X3 mechanical keyboard
- Razer Cynosa V2 Gaming Keyboard
Best Gaming Keyboard - Razer Huntsman V2 Analog
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+ 8For one of the best gaming keyboards around, look no further than the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog.
The true reason for this being right at the top of our list is down to one thing: its analog switches. This means that each switch can be configured to have controller-like accuracy through a more progressive input. Within FPS games like COD Vanguard for instance, this can be quite a handy feature.
You'll also find that the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog certainly looks the part with plenty of interesting and bright RGB lighting, as well as this ascertained heft to it that should also make it rather sturdy.
The associated software suite here, Razer's Synapse 3, allows for all sorts of configuration with regards to the analog switch input as well as full customisation of RGB lighting and intriguingly, even Philips Hue which we think offers one of the best smart light systems around.
Best Gaming Keyboard for under £50 - Redragon K552
click to enlarge + 8For under £50 you can get this Redragon K552 Gaming Keyboard.
It features dustproof mechanical switches, which are the equivalent to Cherry MX red, so you can play quickly and quietly too.
And it boasts some impressive durability too, so you don't have to worry about any of the letters scratching off.
The inclusion of RGB backlighting means that you can experience up to 19 different light-up effects, which is sure to add another dimension to your gaming setup. For the price, you really can't go wrong here!
Best Gaming Keyboard Roccat - Roccat Pyro
click to enlarge + 8Roccat has usually impressed us with some brilliant keyboards and their Pyro is no exception to the rule.
With it, you'll find some light and snappy TTC Red switches which are great for gaming with a 45cN actuation force, and some sturdy build quality with a metal top plate and striking looks will also mean this board will stand the test of time.
There's also some crisp lighting with the Roccat Pyro and oodles of customisation within their accompanying software, Roccat Swarm with regards to that RGB lighting and programming macros.
In addition, a wristrest and some flip out feet will make this keyboard rather comfortable to use for those long gaming sessions.
Best Gaming Keyboard for Design- Asus ROG Claymore II
click to enlarge + 8For some rather ingenious design, the Asus ROG Claymore II does look to take a fair amount of plaudits.
It offers this interesting modular design with a magnetic number pad that allows you to either have a full-size keyboard or, if you want the extra space, a handy tenkeyless space saver.
You'll also find some great battery life with 144 hours of usage with no RGB or 43 hours with it at full blast. Charging is also a doozy with the included USB-C port.
The Claymore II's switches are Asus' own optical options which come in two flavours: RX Red and RX Blue. These should provide a good typing experience, whether you want something light or something clicky.
Best Gaming Keyboard for Custom Settings - SteelSeries Apex Pro
click to enlarge + 8If you're all about fine-tuning your gaming experience to suit your playstyle or even the genre of the games you play the most, a keyboard like the SteelSeries Apex Pro could be up your street
This impressive piece of kit actually allows you to set the actuation distance (how 'deep' you push the key before it picks up on it) anywhere between 0.4mm to 3.6mm.
It has an N-Key Roll Over of 104 and an impressive response time of just 0.7ms.
The body of this keyboard is made of aircraft-grade aluminium and there's even an OLED display! And did we mention the RGB lights too?
If you've got the budget, then you really can't go wrong with this keyboard.
Best Gaming Keyboard For Minimalists - Logitech G413
click to enlarge + 8This Logitech G413 is a great keyboard if you're not looking to shell out too much cash to take your gaming to the next level.
Logitech's Romer-G mechanical switch is quiet and fast, making it great for gaming. Like the SteelSeries. the casing is built with aircraft-grade aluminium alloy, however, this design leans more toward the minimal look and feel.
If you'd rather skip the RGB train and want to upgrade your setup for less, then this keyboard could be a great way to go!
Best Gaming Keyboard Under £95 - Cougar Attack X3
click to enlarge + 8If you're on the hunt for an RGB keyboard, but want something pretty serious looking at the same time, then it's the Cougar Attack X3 for you!
The RGB elements to this keyboard look seriously impressive, especially with the aluminium casing, but that standout feature are the switches themselves.
None other than the CHERRY MX Red switches are in this keyboard, so you can rest assured this will be built to last!
Don't forget the FPS palm rest either, designed for comfort and improving your performance.
Best Gaming Keyboard Under 45 - Razer Cynosa V2
click to enlarge + 8Getting a mechanical keyboard would appear to be the go-to for many gamers out there, however, there are some brilliant membrane keyboards like the Razer Cynosa V2 which could be worth considering.
Razer delivers on their signature style here with another amazing looking product, complete with backlighting for that visual statement on your desk.
It's fully programmable for custom profiles, macros and more, and also features dedicated media keys.
For the price, it's a great looking, safe-bet keyboard for most players out there!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here we'll clear up a few of the most frequently asked questions on gaming keyboards.
Which switches are best for gaming keyboards?
This usually boils down to personal preference. Usually, a light switch like an MX Red is ideal for gaming given that it's linear and offers a snappy user experience.
However, that's not to say the likes of Blues, Blacks and Browns couldn't be used for gaming. Some players may prefer some feedback from their keyboard or a heavier keypress.
What is N-Key Rollover?
In simple terms, N-Key Rollover, or NKRO for short, is a mechanism keyboards have that allows a certain number of keys to be pressed down at the same time.
As games typically require a lot of simultaneous inputs, it's important that they have a good amount of rollover to cope with the pressures of various games. A lot of the proper gaming boards offer full or unlimited NKRO meaning you can have as many keys pushed down as you want.
Do I need RGB lighting on a gaming keyboard?
Much like which switch is best to use, whether you'd like RGB lighting is a purely personal but aesthetic decision.
There are no performance benefits involved in having flashy lights on your keyboard, but if you think it looks cool, then you can have it as bright as you fancy.
But, if it doesn't tickle your fancy, there's keyboards out there with no lighting but are mechanical, or you can just turn the lighting off.
READ MORE: Best PC Gaming Mice 2022 - Our top picks!