How to Choose the Best Gaming Mechanical Keyboard

Your Guide to buying the best Gaming mechanical keyboards

Overview

A gaming mechanical keyboard is a keyboard designed specifically for gaming, featuring enhanced durability and accuracy as well as specialized backlighting and other features to give gamers an edge. This buying guide will provide detailed information on the various types of gaming keyboards, as well as what to look for when choosing the right product for your needs. We will cover features such as switch types, RGB lighting, onboard memory, and more to ensure you get the best gaming experience possible.

Key features

  1. Key Type - Decide between linear, tactile and clicky mechanical keys. Linear switches provide a smooth, consistent keypress with no tactile feedback. Tactile switches have a “bump” sensation when pressed, while clicky switches have a tactile bump along with an audible click.
  2. Actuation Force - Look for a switch with an actuation force that you're comfortable with. This is the amount of force required to press the key until it registers. Generally, low actuation force switches are better for gaming since they require less force to press.
  3. Key Travel - Look for a keyboard with a key travel distance that you're comfortable with. Key travel is measured as the distance the switch moves when pressed. On most gaming keyboards, the key travel distance is relatively low.
  4. Backlighting - Look for a keyboard that has backlighting. Backlighting is important for gaming in the dark, and can also help you identify which keys to press faster.
  5. Macro Keys - Some gaming keyboards come with macro keys, which are keys that can be programmed to execute a series of keystrokes with a single press. This can be useful for executing long and complex commands quickly.
  6. Other Features - Look for other features like dedicated media keys, a wrist rest, or USB pass-through ports. Some gaming keyboards also come with software that allows you to customize the RGB lighting and program macros.

See the most popular Gaming mechanical keyboards on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability - Gaming mechanical keyboards are extremely durable and can last for tens of millions of keystrokes.
  • Precise Responsiveness - With a mechanical keyboard, there is no need to worry about delayed keystrokes or input lag. Gaming mechanical keyboards have a unique tactile feel and provide an immediate response, allowing gamers to perform better.
  • Customizability - With the removable keycaps, gamers can customize their gaming mechanical keyboards to their own style. Different colored switches, keycap designs, and lighting effects can all be added for a unique gaming setup.
  • Better Comfort - Mechanical keyboards have a low-profile design and offer a comfortable typing experience, allowing gamers to play for longer periods of time without feeling fatigued.
  • Cost - Gaming mechanical keyboards can be found at a range of price points, making them an affordable option for gamers on a budget.

Cons

  • Price: Gaming mechanical keyboards can be expensive, ranging anywhere from $50 to $200 or more.
  • Noise: Mechanical keyboards are generally louder than traditional keyboards, so they may be disruptive to a work environment or cause distractions for other people in the room.
  • Size: Mechanical keyboards are usually larger than traditional keyboards, so they can take up more space on the desk.
  • Maintenance: Mechanical keyboards require regular maintenance to keep them functioning properly. This includes lubricating the keys and cleaning the switches and keycaps.
  • Durability: Mechanical keyboards are usually more durable than traditional keyboards, but they still have a finite lifespan.

Best alternatives

  1. Gaming Membrane Keyboards - Keyboards with a membrane layer beneath the keys, providing a slimmer and quieter typing experience.
  2. Gaming Keypads - Smaller keyboards with fewer keys, designed to help gamers control their characters in games more effectively.
  3. Gaming Wireless Keyboards - Keyboards that connect to devices wirelessly, providing a more convenient way to play games.
  4. Gaming Keyboards with Dedicated Macro Keys - Keyboards with keys dedicated to running macros, allowing gamers to access their most used commands without having to memorize complex key combinations.
  5. Gaming Keyboards with RGB Lighting - Keyboards with RGB lighting, allowing gamers to customize the look of their gaming setup and create their own unique gaming experience.
  6. Gaming Keyboards with Multiple Connectivity Options - Keyboards that can be connected to devices with multiple connectivity options, such as USB, Bluetooth, or wireless.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Wrist Rest - A cushioned wrist rest designed to provide support for the wrists while typing or gaming.
  • Backlighting - LED lighting behind the keys that can be set to different colors to provide a customizable and attractive look.
  • Keycap Puller - A device used to remove and replace keycaps on mechanical keyboards.
  • Key Switches - Components that determine the type of feedback, key travel, and durability of a mechanical keyboard.
  • Macro Keys - Keys that can be programmed to execute a set of commands with a single press.
  • USB Hub - A port that allows you to plug in multiple devices at once, such as a mouse and headset.
  • Anti-ghosting - A feature that allows multiple keys to be pressed simultaneously without causing unintended inputs.

Common questions

  1. What type of switches do Gaming mechanical keyboards typically have? Gaming mechanical keyboards typically use either linear, tactile, or clicky tactile switches. Linear switches provide a smooth, even feel when pressed, while tactile switches offer a bump or tactile feedback when pressed. Clicky tactile switches provide a bump and an audible click when pressed.
  2. What are the benefits of using a Gaming mechanical keyboard? Gaming mechanical keyboards provide a level of accuracy, speed, and comfort that is difficult to achieve with a regular keyboard. They also have higher durability and last longer than regular keyboards.
  3. What are the drawbacks of using a Gaming mechanical keyboard? Mechanical keyboards can be expensive and may not be suitable for users on a tight budget. They can also be loud when pressing keys. In addition, they are typically larger and heavier than regular keyboards.
  4. What is the best type of switch to use for Gaming? The best type of switch to use for Gaming will depend on the user’s preferences. Linear switches are best for those who prefer a smooth, even feel when pressing keys. Tactile switches are best for those who like a bump feedback when pressing keys. Clicky tactile switches are best for those who like an audible click when pressing keys.
  5. Are Gaming mechanical keyboards compatible with Macs? Gaming mechanical keyboards are typically compatible with Macs, though some may require additional software or drivers to work properly. It is best to check the manufacturer's website to determine compatibility with Macs.

Trivia

In 2019, the world's first mechanical keyboard with an integrated beer tap was created by Taiwanese company iKBC. Dubbed the iKBC MF108, the mechanical keyboard was designed to let users quench their thirst and get their gaming session on. The keyboard features a built-in tap that can hold up to 4 liters of beer, a temperature control system, a built-in drip tray, and a temperature display. The keyboard also has an adjustable RGB LED light, mechanical switches, and a detachable USB cable. According to the manufacturers, the MF108 was designed to provide users with the convenience and comfort of having a beer on hand during their gaming sessions. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.