We have a new entry this week: the MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic. This impressive and robust gaming keyboard delivers fast actuation, perfect for esports players and gamers with a preference for fast-paced games. It's incredibly feature-rich as well, with its unique dual-touch volume wheel and a plush wrist rest.
Michelle Rae Uy, Buying Guides Editor
The best gaming keyboards are designed to improve your gaming experience and offer speedier responses. And, they will help you get to the top of the leaderboards with their excellent performance and amazing feel.
We've been testing the best keyboards for gaming and every other use under the sun, and we are pretty much all dedicated PC gamers, so we know which gaming keyboards are worth your hard earned money and which are better to avoid, no matter what type of gaming you're into.
Whether you're looking for a full 104-key keyboard with a numpad and macro buttons, touchbars, and LED displays or the best mini keyboard for gaming with a tiny footprint, there is a gaming keyboard out there that is a perfect fit. Compliment the best gaming PC you can buy this year with an equally hefty deck or something compact if you've got a smaller setup. We've got you covered and can point you in the right direction.
We've even rounded up some of the best gaming keyboard deals around to give you a heads up on where to get the best prices on the gaming keyboard you want. And, if you're looking to fully kit yourself out, don't forget to check out our best gaming mouse and best PC gaming headset guides as well.
The best gaming keyboard 2023
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Combining the latest optical technology and Razer’s analog mechanical key switches, the Razer Huntsman v2 Analog is good enough to get a five-star rating from us. That’s under-selling it.
This gaming keyboard delivers the best typing and gaming experience of any keyboard we’ve tested in the last few months, with extremely satisfying tactile feedback and a wrist rest that’s designed to let you game for longer. It allows actuation point adjustments between 1.5mm to 3.6mm in increments of 0.1mm, which is a blessing for any competitive players. And, it boasts dual-macro ability so you can program two actions on a single keypress across different pressures.
Rounding those features out are the most comfortable wrist rest we've ever used and a built-in twin-cable. As far as keyboards go, it is sitting on the expensive side of things, but it’s definitely worth it.
Read our full Razer Huntsman v2 Analog review
The Roccat Magma isn’t as robust as its pricier counterparts, but when it comes to budget gaming keyboards, there are sacrifices that have to be made. Luckily, it makes up for that in a massive way with surprisingly fast and accurate performance.
During testing, this membrane gaming keyboard delivered an incredibly (and surprisingly) punchy performance, thanks to its fast, accurate keys. We found moving and performing actions were swift and responsive, a boon during intense multiplayer gameplay, while keeping all that button-mashing quiet so you can play all night long without annoying your roommates.
If you're an RGB fan, you'll love the semi-transparent top plate with five RGB lighting zones underneath that simply light up the whole thing. Best of all, it's incredibly cheap, making it the best gaming keyboard for gamers on a tight budget.
Read our full Roccat Magma review
The Corsair K100 Air Wireless might have blown away the likes of the Logitech G915 and Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro in terms of performance and features. It isn't going to be for those who need something kitted out or want to save money on gaming peripherals, but as a premium option, it certainly gives you a lot of bang for your buck.
It's not just thinner and better to type on; it's also a lot faster with that 8,000Hz refresh rate, making it terrific for esports. Feature-wise, it boasts media keys, hotkeys, and dedicated macro buttons, as well as its ability to layer different RGB lighting effects (via the iCue software).
Performance-wise, we found it to roll out incredibly fast responses, even when you’re “slumming it” at 2,000Hz. Combine that with the pre-travel of 0.8mm, and your key presses are registering long before the key bottoms out. You'll find this low-profile keyboard to be incredibly responsive, whether you're a casual gamer or a pro.
Read our full Corsair K100 Air Wireless review
Razer fans' wait is over with the brand's first low-profile gaming keyboard finally hitting the shelves. Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro, the first in Razer's low-profile line, muscling its way into this form factor market with impressive specs – including a short travel distance of 2.8mm and short actuation of 1.2mm (if you get the linear optical version). You might say it's a badder, better version of the beloved Logitech G915.
Although we're still in the process of testing this keyboard, we're already impressed by how comfortable it is. True to Razer tradition, it's also robust and extremely versatile, thanks to its three connectivity options (Bluetooth, USB wired, and 2.4GHz wireless), quick-access buttons to quickly go from one input to the other, and a full-key programmable design.
The low-profile design is a treat as well; as are the floating low-profile keycaps that really bring out the best in that highly-customizable Chrome RGB lighting. Finally, this may be one of the best gaming keyboards right now, but it's also a pleasure to use for productivity.
Read our full Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro review
In a sea of full-sized gaming keyboard, choosing the best for you isn't going to be straightforward. However, the robust MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic is an easy choice if you're searching for something fast. True to its name, it's built for speed and, therefore, fast-paced titles.
It comes in two versions: one with a red switch and another with a blue switch, with the blue switch version being the model we tested. The blue clicky mechanical switches require slightly heavier presses (though not by much), but they do have a shorter actuation distance of 1.4mm. This can be a double-edged sword, as we found it easy to accidentally activating a key when we've got a finger resting on it. Still, the switches themselves are also incredibly fast and responsive, made for pro gamers.
And, while the software is a bit minimalist, there are several features that give it value. There's a unique dual-touch volume wheel that delivers a surprising touch of convenience we didn't even know we needed and a plush wrist rest that keeps users comfortable.
Read our full MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic review
Optical-mechanical keys are the new mechanical. They've got the longevity and speed of optical switches and the satisfying tactile feedback of mechanical keys, making gaming keyboards like the formidable Corsair K100 RGB the best of both worlds.
This kitted-out gaming keyboard is fast, long-lasting, and a pleasure to use. During our tests, its 4,000Hz polling rate, high actuation point and consistent keypresses make it ideal for twitchy gameplay. That blend of gaming performance and quick shortcuts may be enough reason, especially for streamers, to pick it up.
Of course, there's more here to enjoy. Features abound include USB passthrough, six dedicated macro keys, a multi-function iCUE control wheel, and that epic RGB lighting. It's not a cheap gaming keyboard, but it sure packs a lot in for your money.
Read our full Corsair K100 RGB review
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL might just be the most feature-rich and the most customizable TKL gaming keyboard on the market. However, it's also a fantastic great-feeling performer that can actually help you win.
Those brand-new switches, the OmniPoint 2.0, are even more impressive, being faster and more durable with 11x quicker response and 10x faster actuation than its predecessor. That's on top of the adjustable actuation of 0.2mm to 3.8mm as well as its dual actuation, which allows you to program two actuations per key.
We found this to be a very fast, very responsive gaming keyboard with switches that deliver that satisfying mechanical feel without being too loud, which makes it already a fantastic value to most people. Add in its special features that you'd be hard-pressed to find in others, and you've got yourself a great gaming investment. Even if it's a little on the expensive side.
Read our full SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023) review
Who needs a full-sized keyboard when TKL gaming keyboards such as the Roccat Vulkan TKL Pro exist? This compact gaming keyboard is among the best in performance, comfort, and looks, touting a classy brushed gunmetal finish and floating keys that brilliantly showcase its customizable RGB lighting.
Roccat’s Titan optical switches are not only fast and accurate, but satisfying, quiet and robust as well. During testing, its performance was impeccable. It proved to be very responsive and speedy, and that 1.4mm actuation meant there was no need for fatiguing finger workouts. Gamers with light fingers will appreciate the fact that they don’t have to press all the way down for the keys to register.
And, let's not forget that optical switch long-life guarantee. Rated at 100 million keystrokes and combined with the deck's aircraft-grade aluminum reinforcement, this gaming keyboard will last you a long while. It’ll set you back quite a bit, but it’s so worth it.
Read our full Roccat Vulkan TKL Pro review
For a mini keyboard, the Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless sure boasts a ridiculous amount of personalized customizability options. Like many 60% gaming keyboards on the market, it comes at a hefty price. However, there’s a ton of value packed into the package, from its features right down to its performance.
On test, we found that its battery life of up to 200 hours, depending on the connection, is comparable to Razer’s BlackWidow V3 Mini Hyperspeed, and its performance is excellent, proving it can keep up with fast-paced shooters like Doom Eternal. Not that it's surprising, considering its 8,000Hz polling rate.
When it comes to features, you're getting swappable switches, up to 50 programmable profiles on-board, and compatibility with Microsoft and Sony’s current-gen consoles. That's on top of the usual RGB customizations and macro programming that these mini keyboards typically offer. So yes, it's expensive, but it's also worth every penny.
Read our full Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless review
The G915 TKL lives up to its name, delivering the speed you need for epic gaming while keeping things cable-free. With a 1,000Hz polling rate and 1.5 mm actuation distance, it can keep up with its wired setup.
It performed incredibly fast, responsive, and accurate during testing, and it was a pleasure to button-mash on. That's due to the keys only requiring an actuation force of 50g while also having a short actuation distance so you don’t have to work hard for all your presses to be detected.
It also has a long wireless range and decent battery life considering its stunning RGB lighting. Best of all, it’s a gorgeous keyboard with its low-profile floating keys and brushed aluminum deck. Small desk and travel friendly, this is without a doubt among the best gaming keyboards out there.
Read our full Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed review
The Asus ROG Azoth allows you to dip your toes into customization, which is something you won't get from a lot of gaming keyboards. But, that isn't the only thing that makes this 75% keyboard a shoo-in if you're looking for a more compact option. It doesn't sacrifice functionality, with dedicated arrow keys so that you don't have to use an Fn shortcut to navigate.
More importantly, it felt responsive, pleasant, and satisfying to use, whether we were typing our emails and articles or playing top titles. That's thanks to its custom ROG NX switches, which, by the way, are extremely fast and aren't too loud so you can button-mash away without annoying anyone.
Sadly, it's extremely pricey, and there are no dedicated macro buttons. But it is programmable and has an OLED screen thrown in, which does add to its value.
Read our full Asus ROG Azoth review
Even if you're getting one of the best gaming keyboards, it can be hard to swallow a high price tag on a gaming keyboard, and it gets even harder when it's as small as the Razer Huntsman V2 TKL. But, what you're missing in extra features that a full-sized keyboard might offer, you gain in reliability and speed.
The Razer Huntsman V2 TKL takes the second-generation Razer Optical switches that makes all of its keyboards so good, and puts it into an easy-to-carry package. And, we found it to be a dream to game on, especially with that incredibly fast performance and the fact that its keys are very customizable.
It's still wired, sure, but when you're counting lag in the milliseconds to win a Counter-Strike match, you want that anyway. This keyboard is a dream, and would fit nicely on the desk of any PC gamer.
Read our full Razer Huntsman V2 TKL review
Customizable actuation points and dual actuation aren't something you'll find on most gaming keyboards. Except for SteelSeries' Apex Pro line. One of the newest addition is its Mini Wireless, which boasts both those unique and epic features in a compact, albeit expensive, form factor.
The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless' gaming performance is truly impressive. Its adjustable actuation (3.8 to 0.2) really worked impeccably during our tests, as did the dual actuation feature – its per-key ability to have two actions at different actuation points. And, while they may seem like overkill, we found them to be incredibly useful and convenient.
Rounding those out are the customizable RGB lighting that's very bright and a thinner, more compact footprint than rivaling mini keyboards. It's definitely one of the best gaming keyboards, hands-down, as long as you're prepared to spend a lot of money.
Read our full SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless review
We're happy to see big-name keyboard brands are starting to get into modding, with the Roccat Vulcan II Mini being one of Roccat's entry in the keyboard enthusiast world. However, while we had a blast modding its keycaps to celebrate the holiday season, we were more impressed by its performance and features, which isn't surprise seeing as the Vulcan line is very accomplished one.
The Roccat Vulcan II Mini may be small and compact, touting a 65% form factor. However, it's also packed with useful features like Roccat's Smart Keys and Easy-Shift functions, the latter essentially giving you a new set of keyboard actions. And, while the optical switches may have a bit more resistance to them than their mechanical counterparts, they are just as fast and responsive, making games like Control and Kena: Bridge of Spirits more effortless to win in.
Of course, it's small footprint, low profile, and light weight also make it travel-friendly. So, if you're looking to game on-the-go, this is the gaming keyboard to take with you.
Read our full Roccat Vulcan II Mini review
HyperX’s contender, for example, the Alloy Origins 60, is the best option if you’re looking for a mini keyboard that’s affordable yet extremely reliable. Some corners are cut, yes. At the same time, you’re getting a premium build and excellent performance so it’s still worth every penny.
During our testing, the HyperX Red (linear) key switches proved to be very responsive. We found that their 45g actuation force and 1.8mm actuation point offers you an edge even when you need to press the same key multiple times in quick succession.
When it comes to design and build, the keyboard body is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum while the keycaps are made of durable PBT material. Plus, the RGB lighting is well implemented and there's plenty of key customizations to make it truly yours. All that without charging you a premium makes this a budget-friendly choice to gamers who want to switch to a mini keyboard.
Read our full HyperX Alloy Origins 60 review
Do gaming keyboards make a difference?
Yes, gaming keyboards make a difference! The best gaming keyboards are not only designed to have a fast reaction time, but they are engineered with gaming comfort in mind. Some keyboards have extended wrist rests so you can game for longer and without extra strain on your wrists. If you plan on gaming for hours at a time, you need a comfortable keyboard to accommodate your hands.
Whether you enjoy narrative-driven single-player games or competitive online games, using the best gaming keyboard will make a difference in your gaming experience. The best PC games will benefit from being played with a gaming keyboard and you’ll have a more enjoyable time doing so.
If you want to make the switch to the best gaming keyboard, check out our list below. We’re no stranger to gaming keyboards, having tested many over the years, and will help you find the one that best suits your gaming needs and setup. Plus, we’ve got a price comparison tool to help you find the best keyboard deal available.
Which keyboard is best for gaming?
This really depends on what kind of gaming you want to use your gaming keyboard for.
If you are an MMO player, the best gaming keyboards are going to have plenty of options for macro recording and even different profiles for different games.
If you're a competitive esports player, you'll want a keyboard that is extremely responsive, and one that has 2.4GHz wireless connectivity rather than Bluetooth, or even a wired connection for the best responsiveness.
