The 9 Best Gaming Keyboards That Offer More Flash and Features Than Your Current Setup

Yes, they kinda look like regular keyboards, except for the lights and extra keys. But they offer a lot more. Today's gaming keyboards have become quite sophisticated pieces of engineering — some of them even feature their own processor, display, and memory module. Most have macro support, which means you can press a single key to launch a command or keystroke in just one press, rather than having to press multiple keys.

The Best Gaming Keyboards

What to Consider

Similar to a pair of shoes, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all gaming keyboard that will work for everybody. In order to help you find the best gaming keyboard for you, it’s important that you decide on a few things

First, you need to determine your new keyboard’s switch type. Mechanical keyboards vary depending on their switches — brown are relatively quiet, while blue are clicky and loud. Cherry keys give you a slight click and are easy to engage without using much force. Still confused about the different switch types? Our friends at Popular Mechanics have you covered, and wrote an informative breakdown on mechanical keyboards.

Next, you should consider what size keyboard you want. You’re probably most familiar with a full-size keyboard. This type has around 100 keys with a full alphanumeric type pad, a number pad on the right side, and with some arrow cursors along the bottom. We recommend this type of keyboard for anybody who works with numbers.

Tenkeyless (commonly called TKL) keyboards have around 88 keys, which consist of the alphanumeric block, a row of function keys, and the navigation arrows. This type appeals to gamers who want more desk space for their gaming mouse. Since this type of keyboard is about 80% of the width of a full-sized keyboard, they aren’t as heavy. So, they are also easier to travel with, and oftentimes cheaper. “60%” keyboards are the most common layout following full-size and TKL gaming keyboards. This type ditches the number pad, the function keys at the top, and the navigational arrows on the bottom.

Now that you’ve figured out your switch type and keyboard size, you’ll want to decide if you need a wired or wireless keyboard. We wholeheartedly recommend a wired keyboard since they are more reliable and don’t experience any delays or lag. However, if you want a cleaner desk set up (or just really loathe cords), wireless is the way to go.

If you want an edge over your online gaming opponents, shop our favorite gaming keyboards now: You’re sure to find one that suits your needs and budget.