We decided to put together a list of the top 10 Best Gaming Keyboards, as the demand of gaming keyboards is increasing exponentially. From trendy joysticks to innovative keyboards, gamers need it all, so let us help you in choosing the finest keyboards perfectly suitable to your needs.
The gaming community would unanimously agree that a gaming keyboard makes a huge difference in the comfort level, gaming experience, playing length and the overall look of your gaming setup if compared with an ordinary standard keyboard. So let’s take an in-depth look at the Best Gaming Keyboard of 2018.
Best Gaming Keyboards
According to research the most wanted Gaming Keyboard at this moment is Corsair K70, let’s wait no further and get right into the details which declare it as the best gaming keyboard 2018.
- Gaming Forums
- Facebook Platform
- Gaming Platoons
- Amazon ratings and it’s customer reviews
- Main product testing
- Ratings on famous tech blogs
Difference between Mechanical and Membrane Keyboard Models
An example of a membrane keyboard
If you take a look at different keyboards, each keyboards offer different features, however, the basic similarity among them would be the introduction of various improvised features.
The major difference would be the formation of keys on the gaming keyboard. Membrane based keyboards and mechanical based are the two main types. The mechanical keyboards are finer than the membrane- based keyboards as they are made from physical switches, whereas the other one uses conductive plastics to form signals when touched.
The decision to decide among those two would be the decision between quality and cost.
Low-Quality Keyboards are not worth the money
The main purpose of a gaming keyboard is to make the entire gaming experience entertaining, but this doesn’t mean that all gaming keyboards offer a good touch and simulation. With that said, only a few gaming keyboard models are produced every year.
There are abundant variation in types, quality and brands of gaming keyboards. Of course, a variety in quality would mean the presence of very cheap keyboards in the market too, but their purchasing would only result in an uncomfortable gaming experience.
To assist you in having the most spectacular keyboard experience, we have created a list of best keyboards for gamers 2018.
1 . Corsair Vengeance K70 RGB
The keyboard models before K70 have had their fair share of appreciation. Now it’s the era of latest model since many new features and improved software has been incorporated. Put all things aside, only its design will manage to make an instant impression on you.
Perfect Predecessor
A conceptual successor of K60, K70 has not failed to fill in its successful shoes. Although it doesn’t have complete features present in K70 MX red or K60, it still has quite a lot. In addition to that it has more features and looks aesthetically pleasing with the incorporation of full lit LED keys.
Exhilarating Additions
On the keyboard’s dorsal side, a four-way BIOS switch is placed, which helps to decrease 50% of polling rate. The greatest advantage of this switch is that it helps in rapid transformation, from switching from primary BIOS mode to 500Hz or even 1000Hz, anything is possible.
Ergonomic
The gamers feel the need to have an on and off wrist set, which is why this feature is also included in the keyboard. For gamers who have a problem of sweaty hands, don’t worry the keys are made matte just for your convenience.
Additional Cushion
The K70 keyboard feels light weighted and responsive, all because of cherry MX red switches, as they are designed to provide a fast paced gaming experience. It is constructed with a 45g actuation force, and a rubber curve on the inside for extreme gaming and a unique feel.
The honorary mention goes to their contoured WASD keys, and is worth a mention in every review.
- Additional wrist set
- Colourful Backlighting
- Simplistic and Sleek Design
- Sturdy Build Quality
- Pricey
- Complex Software
Although K70 doesn’t brag about an innovative design, it has definitely made improvements needed in their previous keyboards, which adds a good feel to the new model. K70 promises to provide an all-round fulfillment, as it is completely mechanized. So without a doubt, Corsair K70 comes at the top of the list.
2 . Coolermaster Storm Quickfire TK
By taking a first glance at the keyboard, it appears to be very simple, but Coolmaster comes with a mouse and a gaming keyboard. It is so far the greatest keyboard manufactured by Coolmaster and one can opt for both complete and partial illumination options offered and it has a less than 1 ms polling rate. Coolmaster provides the following three switching modes:
- Cherry MX Red
- Cherry MX Blue
- Cherry MX Brown
Dimensions: 14.9×5.4×1.3 inches
For portability purposes, they also provide a six feet cable.
- Solid board has a numerical pad
- Window lock elimination provides restoring option if a games is accidently closed
- It has five brightness levels and three backlight modes
- The dimensions of this keyboard is desk friendly
- Cherry MX keys is the best feature
- Numerical keypad will take some time to learn
- No availability of macro keys
This keyboard will bring joy to the FPS gamers; it’s compact, sturdy and delivers an enjoyable gaming experience. It is comprised of an intellectual system which can decrease its size, without losing any keys. The illumination can be manipulated and a programmable mouse is impossible to resist. Although you might be coerced into purchasing a wrist set, but it’s not a major disadvantage.
3 . Razer BlackWidow Chroma
This keyboard has some great features and some not so great features. It has a poor build quality with a high price, which is a bit unfair since it’s manufactured from plastic.
The keyboard can be customized according to color, which is undeniably the most exciting part. It also consists of a macro keys, and has audio and usb pass through. Gamers who give importance to style along with gaming would love to purchase this keyboard.
- Easy usage
- Potent Customization Software
- Comfortable and Programmable Keys
- Colorful Illumination
- Relaxed Typing Experience
- Low build quality
- Pricey
- Less Key Travel
According to research Razer Chroma is declared to be the top Gaming keyboard currently.It has macro keys, programmable keys, audio and USB pass-through and the software is comparatively easier to use if compared with K70 mentioned above. The only disadvantage is the keyboard’s pricey plastic body.
4 . Tesoro Excalibur G7NL
Excalibur has not paid much attention to design or keyboards attractive appearance, so it’s not suitable for gamers who like funky exteriors. However, Excalibur design shortcomings don’t hinder it from coming 4th on our list of Best Gaming Keyboards of 2018.
Features offered
Due to N-Key rollover, G7nl have a complete set of keys. It also comes with Brown, Red and Blue switches. Its gaming grade mechanized keys account for 60 million key actuations. The bottom is made of rubber which prevents it from slipping in an intense game. It also has a 512kB onboard macros memory.
Multiple Modes
The advantage of three switches is that it assists in better gaming productivity. All kind of activities can be done through three LED patterns. The modes can be changed instantly without any problem, so if you like multitasking; you’re in for a treat!
Reasonable for Gaming
G7nl is miles ahead of everybody, if only ratings were based upon gaming experience. Intense tapping is easily achievable through switches and macro keys and gaming modules perform their job flawlessly. Switching between LED modes is also an enjoyable feature.
Few Design Flaws
The only problem G7nl has is its difficulty in adjusting on a desk, since its tiny legs folds quite rapidly when needed. This adjustment problem can cause disturbance for gamers, if they are in the middle of an important game.
- Inexpensive
- Simplistic Design
- Macros supported
- Great Build quality
- Backlit illumination
- Absence of USB pass-through port
Tesoro Excalibur has an average looking, but properly manufactured mechanical keyboard. It has some great useful features like game mode, backlighting, media keys and macros. So if you find this keyboard at a reasonable price, you should definitely buy it without any second thought.
5 . CM Storm QuickFire Rapid-i
The most prominent feature in this keyboard is the individual back-lighting. If you are a new gamer, you won’t be overwhelmed by the keyboard, as it has a very standard design, and its macro options also come in handy.
Simple Design
The keyboard is mechanized and contains Cherry MX mechanical switches. The design of the keyboards looks very conventional as it has a ten button numeric pad. There are a variety of color options like Cherry MX, Blue, Brown, Red etc. Although the design is pretty simple, it helped Quickfire to become one of the best keyboards present currently in the market.
Limited Features
Even though CM Storm has tried to offer a variety of options to its buyers, but its low profile configuration provides hindrance across many platforms. One example would be that you can just avail five-set layouts only. This causes the disappearance of the backlighting feature, but don’t worry it has WASD keys and individual color arrow keys. The option of manual configuration of each button is also available, which can be utilized in the future.
No Software
The major impactful factor in this keyboard is that no software side efforts are needed to save profiles, this is automatically done by the 32 bit onboard ARM processor. The portability of this keyboard comes in handy. CM Storm is widely known to manufacture robust keyboards, so it is safe to say that the money invested would not go to waste.
- Numerous Lighting Modes
- Typing is smooth
- Competent Design
- Software is not necessary
- No Backlight Color option
- No Numeric Pad
- No Macro Keys
The CM Storm Quickfire Rapid-i brings a variety of fascinating features and has a small but powerful mechanical keyboard. The small size is due to the absence of numeric pad and it’s micro key makes it easy to travel with. The main highlight is that no additional software is required to use this keyboard.
6 . Logitech G910 Orion Spark
Orion Spark lifts the keyboard game up by incorporating customized macros and mechanized keys. It’s many additional features would leave current Logitech fans in awe, as every technicality can be manipulated be it a programmable feature or lighting, which is why this keyboard makes it through our Top Ten Best Gaming Keyboard 2018 list.
Standard Design
The design of Orion Spark is quite standard, but it includes countless features be it mechanical switches or full layout, you name it, it has it! Using this keyboard is a conventional experience, as it has built-in media controls, ten key num pad, QWERTY keyboard, mode switches and many more. Just a single USB port is the only downside of G910.
Software Support
It includes gaming software of Logitech, which is set as a default driver of the keyboard. It has a customization option for various lighting, patterns and colors. It also produces analytics on how many times a certain key is frequented. This software can also work for a Logitech mouse, simultaneously with the keyboard.
Performance
This keyboard design is more focused on gaming instead of typing, which is why the keycaps are shaped well.
- It has a Wrist Rest
- Macro Keys are present
- Keycap has an innovative design favouring gamers
- Software support is good
- Keys are asymmetric, not suitable for non-gamers
- Absence of key tap sound
- Pricey
This customized keyboard is a haven for hard-core gamers. Due to the asymmetrical keyboards, it is not much of use besides gaming. The outstanding feature of G910 is its lighting controls and customization of software sides. It also comes with a swappable wrist as an added bonus.
7 . SteelSeries Apex M800
Steelseries is a professional in customization and it makes your keyboard look aesthetically pleasing in addition to incorporating good technology. The illumination color options are so huge, that it would leave you speechless. It can combine 16.8 million possible colors, unbelievable right? The option of opting custom lighting scheme is entirely up to you, run wild with your imaginations. The illuminations can also be turned off from all keys, except one.
Key Specifics
This keyboard’s dual processor is worth a mention. These processors are solely manufactured to register key presses, with its main attention on evading ghosting issues. Registering 256 keys pressed at the same time is now possible, welcome to the future!
Winning Factor
SteelSeries collaborated with switch technology experts to make ends meet via the QS1 switch. This enables quarter of cent percentage additional actuation with steady linear action.
- Software is easy to use
- It has a USB Pass-through
- Backlighting is Impressive
- Build Quality is Plastic
- Bad Typing Experience for Non- Gamers
- Keyboard size is big
- Expensive
This keyboard creates a powerhouse effect to assist in intense gaming on powerful pcs, a hard-core gamer dream come true! The keys can be lit by your choice, and this option definitely takes the prize. The feedback is also very fast to help you overcome problems efficiently.
8 . Razer DeathStalker Ultimate
Say goodbye to standard number pads, Razer Deathstalker Ultimate has come up with an LCD panel. The price of it is a bit high, but in the second half of its year, it will make it up through its revised pricing. Although this keyboard is on our list, it should be mentioned that it is built for gamers only.
Switchblade User Interface
The most outstanding feature is its user interface. The keys are perfectly capable to perform everyday functions. More features can be performed through Synapse management software.
Gamer Haven
There are a variety of functions offered in this keyboard explicitly for gaming. Profiles guide in making gaming commands via the keyboard. Through this keyboard it is possible to engage a track panel of weaponry, damage and health. Through a 4 inch LCD, a track panel looks very clear. This keyboard would be a disadvantage for new gamers, as it would be difficult for them to track keyboard analytics.
- Good Build Quality
- Touch Screen Panel
- Razer Synapse 2.0
- Adjustable Multicolor Backlight
- Sleek Design
- Extremely Pricey
- Bad Typing
- For Gamers Only
- Average Keys
The best thing about this keyboard is its LCD touchscreen and ten programming LED keys. Even though the interface looks great, but it lacks in practicality. The Razer DeathStalker Ultimate should be purchased if you feel that keyboard and the monitor requires the same amount of attention.
9 . Mad Catz STRIKE TE
Mechanized keys with quick and perfect keystrokes are the innovative factor offered by Mad Catz keyboard. Cherry MX is replaced by Kailh Brown for TE usage.
Robust Design
Mad Catz brand is popular for its robust design, which is why it’s a fan favourite. Even the feel of this keyboard is extremely solid, and it doesn’t budge when bent or physically abused. It also has a strong plastic matte, which makes its clever design even sturdier.
The only disadvantage is that Kailh Brown switches doesn’t permit using keyboard according to your liking.
Decent Gaming Option
The typing capacity of this keyboard is good, and it’s also great for gaming. Although a small delay in typing can occur, but it also decreases error percentage by 25%. A sturdy gaming keyboard which is also good for typing is a big bonus, so this can be purchased for its versatility.
- Inexpensive
- Macro Keys are programmable
- Mechanical Key Switches
- Multipurpose Keyboard
- Build Quality is good
- Macro Keys are crowded
- Customization Software is inadequate
A mechanical keyboard with classy customization software is a big plus. Even though the software features feel inadequate, it makes up in the robust department. The keyboard is very reliable and can perform any task possible for example typing, gaming etc. With the use of Kailh Brown switches and impressive backlighting, this keyboard definitely stands out.
10 . ROCCAT RYOS MK Pro
This keyboard is perfect for all you people who are currently on a tight budget, if you are willing to compromise on an innovative design. MK Pro is known to be the best budgeting keyboard and is the best mechanical keyboard 2018 manufactured by a RYOS series.
Why should you purchase a Roccat Ryos MK Pro?
Roccat Ryos MK Pro is the first renowned brand introducing a mechanized keyboard. It offers a variety of four key switch modes, which makes it a good steal. It also comes with an individual backlit keys and USB and audio connections which improves the look of the keyboard drastically and brings great value.
Few Limitations
There is only a single blue color option for backlight. The make of wrist set feels heavy, and it doesn’t come with the choice removing it.
Design
The feel of this keyboard is suitable for both amateurs and professional gamers alike. The programmable key limit is abundant, which allows fast gameplay customizations. However, the design has an impeccable similarity with Roccat Isku.
Features
The most significant feature is its numerous macro options. There are eight macro keys available by default. The gaming experience is smooth, and the mechanical switches helps the keyboard respond swiftly.
- Variety of Programmable Options
- Audio and USB Pass-through
- Individually backlit keys
- Only Blue color backlighting
- Wrist rest can’t be removed.
Roccat has come up with its first mechanical keyboard, no wonder it has countless useful features. Only a few flaws can be detected in this keyboard.
The things taken in consideration while compiling the Top 10 Gaming Keyboards List are:
- Reviews, trust in brand and experience
- Social media trusted review
- Reviews of famous tech magazines
With that said, user experience should me the most critical deciding factor.
- Razer Orbweaver Gaming Keypad – Honorary Mention
This is a gaming keypad, and not a keyboard, and its mention in this top 10 gaming keyboards article is worth your and our time.
The most amazing aspect of this keypad? Mouse, keyboard, and joystick, all turned into one, revolutionary, right?
Gaming Keypads vs. Gaming Keyboards
Keypads are on a whole new level with one hand gaming action, which results in quick and effective gaming experience. Once you learn using keypads, there is no going back! If you’re a gamer, you probably understand its significance without hesitation.
Why Razer Orbweaver?
Orbweaver displays 30 fully programmable keys for hotkeys, macros, etc it consists of an eight directional thumb pad, which can be utilized for many purposes. This keyboard has the best backlighting you can ever find. Its mechanical switches help in giving an outstanding feedback, numerous assortments of reset points and actuation.
Design & Features
Dimensions: 2.2 x 6.1 x 8.0 inches
It also has a 72 inch long USB cable for excellent portability.
The compactness of this keypad, utilizes small desk space and a higher palm rest provides an improved support for gamers. Primary component adjustments are countless, for example a thumb module, keypad encircling 20 programmable buttons and a two piece wrist set and many more can be adjusted. The physical calibration aims to support wrist and palm in a comfortable and healthier position.
Performance
The controls of this keypad are smooth, flawless and highly responsive. What it lacks is the presence of WASD keys, which might be a bummer for gamers. Actuation force in thumb buttons is seamless and accidental clicks can be smoothly avoided .The Joystick is positioned perfectly as it results in repositioning of the thumb completely.
Final Judgement
Like we mentioned before, there is no going back once you get used to a Razer Orbweaver. It then seems to be a far better option than using a conventional keyboard, and the most important aspect out of all, you feel highly satisfied after making your purchase!
