Razer Pro Type Ergo review: two-minute review

Ergonomic keyboards have long been Logitech's territory, but the Pro Type Ergo is Razer's most convincing argument yet that it belongs in the productivity conversation, and not dismissed as just a gaming brand.

It's the brand's first split ergonomic keyboard, and it arrives with a full-size layout, clever software and a mild enough learning curve to make ergo peripherals feel genuinely accessible. There's a lot to like here — the software depth is impressive, the wireless connectivity is versatile, and the adjustment period is shorter than you might fear. But at its higher price tag, the lack of mechanical switches is hard to ignore, and that one compromise colors the whole package.

In practice, the Pro Type Ergo impresses in several key areas. The adjustment period is impressively short — I was largely up to speed within a couple of days, even with some stubborn old typing habits to shake. The fixed vegan leather wristrest is plush, the sculpted keycaps keep your fingers where they should be, and the duplicated 'B' key is a small but smart touch.

Software is a genuine highlight too, with Razer Synapse 4 offering up to 100 mappable functions for the twin command dials, deep macro key customisation, and an AI Prompt Builder that pipes queries into ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot if you want it to. Connectivity is equally versatile, covering three-channel Bluetooth, a 2.4GHz USB-A receiver and USB-C wired, with a claimed three months of battery life per charge and an ideal set of outputs for power users.

However, there are limits that stop the Pro Type Ergo from being an easy recommendation at this price. The most glaring is the switch choice — scissor-actuated membrane keys on a £179.99 keyboard feel like a bit of a compromise, however comfortable and snappy they might be in use.

The Keychron Q13 Max lands at a similar price and is properly mechanical, while the Logitech Ergo K860 covers the core ergonomic brief for roughly half the cost. The Pro Type Ergo's full-size layout and non-removable wristrest also means it takes up a significant amount of desk space, which rules it out for anyone working in tighter quarters – it even made my 120cm desk seem tiny.

At $189.99 / £179.99 / AU$299.95, Razer is asking you to pay a premium for style, software depth and ergonomic approachability — and on the whole, it delivers with a product that's comfortable, likeable, and especially versatile.

Just bear in mind the trade-off by going for a non-mechanical choice at this price. The Pro Type Ergo justifies much of its premium price tag with its versatility, clever software and a learning curve that won't upend your entire working week. If you want to take the plunge into ergo peripherals without sacrificing style or features, this is a very good place to start.

Razer Pro Type Ergo review: Price & release date

• $189.99 / £179.99 / AU$299.95
• Released April 1, 2026
• Towards the top end of the market

Razer launched the Pro Type Ergo in April 2026, and it's available for $189.99 / £179.99 / AU$299.95, which puts it towards the top end of this non-mechanical market, not least for a more niche product such as an ergonomic keyboard. It's available from Razer's own website and secondary retailers such as Amazon.

For reference, it's possible to get more office-oriented ergo keyboards with a similar split layout for more affordable prices, such as the Logitech Ergo K860. It's about half the cost of the Pro Type Ergo with similar fundamentals, although it misses out on Razer's clever software trickery and the oodles of customisation it comes with.

For a more affordable choice, there's also the Logitech Wave Keys, which isn't quite as drastic with some of its ergo sensibilities, although it lacks the snappiness of scissor-actuated keys with more standard rubber domes.

Outside of the usual mainstream brands, the Keychron Q13 Max is a similar price to the Pro Type Ergo and comes with a full-size layout, a machined aluminium chassis, a command dial and macro keys, plus QMK software powers, and it is also properly mechanical. For a different take on ergonomics, the HHKB Studio is a fellow premium choice, but instead of offering split keys and such, it moves some keys around for a more comfortable layout and is fully mechanical.

• Value score: 3.5/5

Razer Pro Type Ergo review: Specs

Razer Pro Type Ergo review: Design

• Large profile on desk
• Lots of convenient creature comforts
• Mild ergonomic layout optimisations

The Pro Type Ultra is Razer's first split ergonomic keyboard, and it blends several of the brand's key design hallmarks into a brand new form factor. For instance, it comes with its usual modern and understated design language that has characterised a lot of its more recent releases.

The fact that it's a full-size layout keyboard with a number pad, nav cluster and function row alongside a big wristrest and function dials means it takes up an awful lot of desk space. That vegan leather wristrest is a large part of the bulkiness of this keyboard, and it isn't removable.

Nonetheless, Razer has designed this keyboard to be functional and comfortable with that full-size layout in mind, and the fact that this is a milder form of ergonomic keyboard than some of the weirder options from Kinesis and ZSA that can take even more getting used to.

What I mean by this is that this keyboard has a mild split down the middle that's designed to align your hands directly with your shoulders to help reduce the risk of getting RSI or carpal tunnel syndrome.

To Razer's credit, even though the angle of the split is fixed, the keyboard has a natural rise and fall across its chassis to help reduce pronation, or forearm strain. The fixed wristrest is also decently plush in the middle, and you get some excellent two-stage feet in all four corners on the underside of the keyboard to raise the angle up or down as you'd prefer.

This split layout forces you to learn how to touch-type properly, which can take some getting used to if you have an odd technique, as I do, where I rarely use my ring and pinky fingers to type, and usually use my fore and middle fingers to do most of the work, sometimes on either side of the keyboard.

Razer has made some small, but noticeable, changes to a standard full-size layout, making some keys slightly elongated, with the 7, T, G, H and B keys. Weirdly, the B key has been duplicated to improve speed and comfort, and the space between the two Space Bars on the bottom row. The keycaps are also slightly sculpted, similarly to the Logitech MX Keys range of products to help keep your fingers where they should be.

Outside of the ergonomic benefits of the Pro Type Ergo, Razer has also made sure to give this keyboard other accoutrements, such as programmable macro keys down the left side and a couple of command dials in each corner. There are also three silver shortcut keys in the top right corner for opening Razer's own AI Prompt Master software, checking battery status and a custom button, plus there are dedicated buttons for wireless pairing over Bluetooth and the bundled 2.4GHz receiver.

The front interface is quite simple, with a convenient toggle switch for wired or wireless use and a USB-C port for charging and wired use.

• Design score: 4/5

Razer Pro Type Ergo review: Performance

• Less of a learning curve than expected
• Comfortable feel, although not mechanical
• Extensive software and connectivity options

Usually I take a couple of weeks to review a keyboard to best understand its quirks and features, but took a little longer with the Pro Type Ergo, owing to its ergonomic credentials. In my experience, it can take a good week or so to get fully used to using an ergonomic keyboard or mouse, so I thought it best to take my time to give Razer's keyboard a fair shot.

To be truthful, the adjustment period of moving to this ergo keyboard wasn't as long as I was expecting it to be, and I found myself mostly up to speed within a couple of days. It took longer to try to get out of some of the habits I've picked up over decades of typing in a funny way. For instance, I found myself usually reaching over to press the Y key with my left forefinger out of habit, which I had to train myself not to do during the review period. It might be useful if Razer put two Y keys to help out with this habit, especially as they've already done it for the B key on the bottom row, but your mileage may vary, of course.

Nonetheless, I found the Pro Type Ergo to be a comfortable device to use, especially after the smaller adjustment period. It makes a product like this a more compelling purchase against ones that force you to make more wholesale changes to your routine, which can be quite upending in some instances.

Under finger, this Razer product isn't mechanical, which surprised me considering its high price tag. Instead, it's using a scissor-actuated mechanism that's similar to what you'll find on the smaller Razer Joro or any of the brand's Blade laptops. This means it's a short and snappy keypress, but one that lacks the precision or tactility of a mechanical option.

There are ergonomic keyboards that are also mechanical, but owing to the bigger size of full-height mechanical switches, they are likely to be bulkier than the Razer Pro Type Ergo – I can understand why this isn't a mechanical product, but it's still a shame it isn't.

Connectivity is versatile, with three-channel Bluetooth and 2.4GHz with the bundled USB-A receiver on the menu, and pairing is simple, too. Simply hold the button down on the keyboard until the button flashes blue and the Pro Type Ergo shows up in the pairing menu of your device. You can also use the bundled USB-C cable for wired connectivity.

As for battery life, Razer also promises three months of use from a single charge, though I imagine you'll have to cut RGB lighting to reach that. You can check the keyboard's battery level with the dedicated button in the top-right corner, which is neat. The Pro Type Ergo takes five and a half hours to recharge, but if the charge lasts up to three months, that's a small price to pay in my book.

Software duties are handled by Razer Synapse 4, and the Pro Type Ergo, unfortunately, isn't compatible with the new web-based variant of Synapse. It's an improvement on the older and clunkier forms of Synapse that came before it, and provides a lot of customisation opportunities for the keyboard, with up to 100 different functions available for the keyboard's command dials, custom key bindings for the macro keys (or you can use built-in ones for apps such as Photoshop or MS Word), and even remapping every other key on the keyboard.

The dedicated AI Prompt button on the keyboard works in a similar way to Logitech's Logi Prompt Builder, allowing you to build a prompt in software, which is then answered by your choice of either ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot in a browser window.

• Performance score: 4/5

Should I buy the Razer Pro Type Ergo?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Also consider

How I tested the Razer Pro Type Ergo

• Tested for around three weeks
• Used for gaming and productivity across Windows and macOS
• A decade of experience as a journalist and mechanical keyboard hobbyist

I tested the Pro Type Ergo for around three weeks, using it as my main keyboard for work and play during this time with both Windows and macOS.

I used it for typing up thousands of words a day with my PC and hooked up to my MacBook Pro over Bluetooth as my primary keyboard for work, too, to judge its performance. I also used the Razer Synapse 4 software on Windows to remap keys, program the macros and see what else it had to offer.

I've been a tech journalist for the best part of a decade, and have reviewed plenty of keyboards in that time from brands big and small. I'm also a mechanical keyboard enthusiast, so I have a keen eye for peripherals and have been involved with the hobby before it hit the mainstream.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

Corsair Makr Pro 75 one-minute review

It's difficult to ignore just how big of an impact the custom keyboard community has had on mainstreaming gaming options in the last decade or so.

Jump back in time three, four, or even five years, and the very idea of the Makr Pro 75 would've been inconceivable, certainly in Corsair's product arsenal. Eight layers of sound-dampening, gasket plates, magnetic hot-swappable hall effect switches, the spec sheet is rich and detailed, and would make 21-year-old me, with his first-ever mechanical Cherry MX Red, weep if he saw it 14 years ago.

Just take a look at the switches, they're linear magnetic hall effect, MGX Hyperdrive models (a mouthful, I know). Aside from being hot-swappable, they're pre-lubed, dual-rail designs with a shine-through PBT keycap that actuate at a fully custom-calibrated actuation point of your choosing. If you want to bottom the thing all the way out, you can; if you want it to actuate the instant your finger barely touches the top, it'll do that too.

The build is just on another level, and it shows. What's less enticing, however, is the price. At £220 UK or $250 US at time of writing, it's a serious chunk of cash to lay out, and although the quality is there, there's a good argument to be had as to just whether that's worth it compared to competitor solutions at nearly half the cost.

If you're after a small form factor, 75% keyboard that's more than capable of handling gaming and typing, one of the best gaming keyboards money can buy, while delivering a class that straddles the line between a custom build and an off-the-shelf model, without the faff of getting out the soldering iron, the Makr Pro 75 is well worth considering.

Corsair Makr Pro 75 review: Price & release date

• Almost DIY price, but, y'know, it's built
• Available in the UK, US, and Australia
• Hard to find a prebuilt solution quite like this

Now here's the kicker: Corsair's Makr series is a bit of a three-headed hydra in terms of product stack. It's all built around that custom aftermarket DIY keyboard ethos. You've got the standard Makr 75, where you can customise exactly what parts you want, and Corsair will ship you the bundle to construct yourself. You can have that same bespoke model, but pre-assembled, or grab this more "off-the-shelf"-esque Makr Pro instead.

The latter has colourways, switch-types, backplates, and LCD/Wireless modules, and keycaps, to add at your leisure along the way. The Makr Pro, however, is a single model and a single model only. There's no alternative colours, no keycap variations (bar regional layouts), and well, that's it. That does come with some wins, though, firstly it's the only board that supports hot-swappable magnetic switches (and comes with those MGX options by default), and secondly, it's quite a bit cheaper.

The equivalent Makr line built to spec using minimal components will set you back $265 on Corsair's website, versus the Pro's $250.

Corsair Makr Pro 75 review: Specs

Corsair Makr Pro 75 review: Design

• Outstanding build quality and exceptional sound deadening
• No full-size variant
• Rotary dial looks awesome, and a welcome addition

This is, without a doubt, the heaviest board I've ever had in for review. It weighs a staggering 1.282 KG (or 2.83 lbs), and honestly, it feels like you could club someone to death with it, it's that ridiculous. It's got a fully built custom aluminum housing, and inside of that live eight layers of sound dampening.

Let me take a breath because the list is long. You've got… silicon rubber padding, pad foam PET backing, PU pad foam, socket foam, PET film, IXPE switch foam, transparent PET backing, and PU plate foam, all situated around that hall effect compatible PCB, which is further secured in place, with both a gasket mount solution for the switches, and stabilisation with an FR4 switch plate for even more rigidity. Like, seriously, guys… It's just not good enough. I expect 14 layers on the next one (that's a joke).

I mention that hall effect PCB because it's an important detail here. Although you can swap out the keys, it's only compatible with magnetic switches that can take advantage of the hall effect sensors.

If you've got a slew of old Gateron switches that you just love, you're going to have to grab the Makr 75 instead of this slightly cheaper model (frustrating I know). Albeit that is a niche in a niche.

There's some other customisation options you can add in here, too, if you're looking to bump the price higher. You can get a wireless module to ditch the cables (effectively strapping a 50-hour battery life to the thing with no RGB enabled, although it is worth noting that's a fraction of the time you get compared to the standard mechanical switch variant at 172 hours). And, you can chuck out the lovely rotary dial for a teeny tiny LCD display, for some reason.

One thing I will say. After spending some time with the latest Corsair Galleon 100 SD, the build here is just outstanding by comparison (which is bizarre given it comes from the same company, and the Galleon costs significantly more).

The only downside? No, full-size variant. And I know I know, the ergonomics are better, and proper gamers only use 75% boards. But I'm an old man now, I game just as much as I mash in my credit card details to buy yet another air fryer.

Corsair Makr Pro 75 review: Performance

• Key switches are gorgeous, Hall effect are stunning for typists and gamers alike
• The argument about dampening feels subjective
• iCUE vs Web Hub is a confusing mess

Can we talk about iCUE quickly, because it seriously frustrates me? Now, this is less of an issue with the Makr Pro directly as it's compatible with both iCUE and Corsair's new Web Hub, thing, but, right now, we're in this weird world where we have not one, but three different programs to manage your Corsair umbrella hardware, with a transition over to Web Hub for the newer products.

What's Web Hub? Glad you asked. Effectively, a lightweight replacement for iCUE, built out of a webpage connecting directly to your Corsair hardware, and fully installable as a PWA app on your desktop.

What's the problem then? Not everything supports it, that Galleon 100 SD I mentioned earlier fails to show on iCUE entirely and is only picked up on Web Hub (and the Elgato Stream Deck app…). That's particularly annoying because if you're running Firefox, Web Hub simply won't work.

As I say, thankfully, the Makr Pro 75 is compatible with both, but if this is a sign of things to come, well, I'm a lot less enthusiastic about it. Particularly as we've only had a promise that legacy component support is coming later down the line, but as and when that happens? Who knows.

Software drama aside, overall typing is just a joy. My heavy-handed (read: hench) fingers absolutely love these keycaps and the surprisingly tactile feedback that each gives on full depression is just stunning. It's smooth, clean, and rapid. Actuation is beautifully clean, and the fact that you can adjust them to your absolute preference (again, so my heavy sausage fingers don't accidentally actuate while resting) is a real treat.

An added bonus on that front is FlashTap SOCD Handling, which effectively allows you to decide how your strafe keys behave on accidental keypress. Pressing D, but your finger slips on A, you can have it still move left with A, continue pressing D, or cancel both key presses simultaneously to stop you moving. It's a neat addition, particularly given how sensitive you can make the actuation point.

There has been some criticism around the industry that the sound dampening might be too aggressive, but honestly, I just don't see it. It may well be that your mileage varies depending on how you type. If you're a heavy keypress lubber like I am, you'll be more than at home on this thing.

There's one minor caveat I have on this thing, though, and that's the cost. It ain't cheap, chief. Asus's ROG Strix Scope II RX, for example, currently slides in at nearly half the price of this thing on Amazon, and you get similar performance from it. Pre-lubed optical red linear switches, sound dampening, a (singular) comprehensive software suite, and dare I say a numpad? Is it at the same level as the Makr Pro? No… But it's damn close.

Should I buy the Corsair Makr Pro 75?

Corsair Makr Pro 75 Scorecard

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Also consider

How I tested the Corsair Makr Pro 75

• Two weeks as my daily driver
• Tested across all types of content (gaming, novel-writing, day-to-day work)
• Used across multiple PCs
• Over a decade of testing PC hardware and 14 years of being keyboard-obsessed

Me and the Makr Pro 75 spent a lovely two weeks together straight. I swapped it out as my daily driver, and used it across both my own digital agency and freelance journalism as well, and leaned on it heavily for everything from hammering out chapters in a novel I'm writing, to long sessions in Total War: Warhammer 3, World of Warcraft as a healer, and dabbling in Cyberpunk 2077 too.

I wanted to ensure it was used across a mix of different applications and games, and thoroughly tested across all genres as well. The keyboard market is no longer targeted solely at young adults and kids, but also to those of us with full-time jobs as well, so ensuring it was capable of a bit of everything was tantamount to this review. I wanted to make certain that it was capable of handling a 2,000-word after-market PC build feature, as it was in a quick three-hour raid sesh.

Alongside the hands-on time, I also dug into the wider keyboard market as well, researching competing boards at and around the Makr Pro 75's price to place its build, switches, and value in proper context. I've spent over a decade testing PC hardware and peripherals, so I've got plenty of experience to draw on, both for how a board this expensive should feel and whether the asking price genuinely adds up.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz: One-minute review

The Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz is one of the brand’s new flagship gaming keyboards. It features analog switches with huge customization potential, designed to meet the exacting requirements of esport professionals.

It has a simple and basic form, although there are few touches that add a little flair. The shiny, brushed top plate and high floating keycaps are sleek, while the bright but subtle RGB lighting adds some much needed color.

It’s also light and compact, but very solid at the same time. The materials feel premium, with the Doubleshot PBT keycaps being the highlight. Some might not like their prominent graining, but to me they’re among the best gaming keyboard caps around in terms of texture.

Razer’s Synapse software has a smorgasbord of options to play around with. There are plenty of rebinding options and performance-related settings, including in-depth Rapid Trigger, Snap Tap, and controller emulation features, to name a few. The app is clear and easy to use, although I did experience a few minor issues with settings failing to take hold at certain points, although these are ultimately fixable.

The optical switches in the Huntsman V3 lack the dampening or clickiness of other boards, and can feel a little harsh at times. This is especially evident when typing, which is also made difficult by the sheer height of the keycaps themselves. Overall, though, they’re still pleasant to use, and the smooth and easy travel of the keys makes them effective when gaming.

The analog performance is also smooth and precise. However, there’s a lack of feel and feedback at the top of each key’s travel. Press further down, though, and you’re met with more resistance, which provides more control when attempting to hit certain actuation points, or when emulating controller sticks and triggers.

With its sub-$200 price point, the Huntsman V3 represents good value considering all that it offers. There are very strong contenders in the analog gaming keyboard space, but the Huntsman V3 acquits itself just well enough to justify its place among them.

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Price and availability

• $169.99 / £169.99 / AU$299.95
• Available now in one color
• Decent price for an analog board

The Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz costs $169.99 / £169.99 / AU$299.95 and is available now in black only. The keycaps are removable, but the switches aren’t.

This is a decent price for an analog keyboard, especially one with as many software tweaks as the Huntsman V3 features. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3, for instance, has a considerably higher list price, although we have seen it with significant discounts lately, bringing it closer in line with the Huntsman V3. The Apex Pro is a truly phenomenal board, with a superior build and performance to that of the Huntsman V3. It doesn’t have as many analog tweaks, though.

For a more budget option, there’s the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro. Like the Huntsman V3, this also has plenty of analog adjustments and features, including controller emulation. However, I found its analog performance inferior, lacking the same levels of precision and control as the Huntsman V3.

• Value score: 4 / 5

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Specs

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Design and features

• Light and compact board
• Tall floating keycaps
• Wealth of settings in Synapse

The Huntsman V3 has a basic appearance, although a few touches set it apart. The aluminum faceplate has a shiny finish with a brushed effect, which is subtle but may still prove divisive. The prominent floating keycaps lend it a healthy dose of sleek minimalism.

The RGB lighting is reasonably subtle, only shining through the keycap characters, although a small amount does leak between the gaps. It’s quite bright, and there are numerous options for customizing patterns.

It’s quite a light and compact board, but it feels surprisingly solid at the same time. There’s very little flex and all materials feel premium. This includes the Doubleshot PBT keycaps; their prominent graining is satisfying to touch and also helps with traction. Again, though, this mightn’t be to every gamer’s taste, given that many keycaps are super smooth.

While the board itself is quite thin, it actually feels a lot thicker, thanks to the height at which the keycaps float above it, as well as the tallness of the keycaps themselves.

However, the tilt angle provided by the feet does help to make it more comfortable to reach the keys. There are two sets of feet which offer meaningful differences in angle.

You’ll find the USB-C port on the back left of the unit. It’s deeply recessed, which makes it a little more difficult to connect and disconnect, but this small inconvenience is a fair trade-off for the security it provides.

To customize the Huntsman V3, you’ll need to download Razer’s Synapse software. This has an impressive gamut of adjustments. There are plenty of remapping options, including a wealth of Windows and media controls you can assign to keys. You can also assign up to four inputs to a single key, each triggering depending on how far down you press.

Like many modern gaming keyboards, there’s a Snap Tap function, letting you assign priority to a single key when two are pressed simultaneously. There are various options here, with different types of priority to choose from. There’s also a Snap Flex feature, which allows you to bind a second input to a key that triggers when you release it. This can be assigned on up to four different keys.

Then there are the analog settings, which again are very extensive. Aside from being able to adjust the actuation point for each key between 0.1mm and 4mm, there’s also a Rapid Trigger function with independent upstroke and downstroke sliders, each with ranges between 0.1mm and 1mm. You can even enable Continuous Rapid Trigger.

There’s a controller emulation mode, too, allowing you to assign gamepad inputs to your keys. This includes trigger and stick inputs, where you can also adjust their curve profile to set their response and sensitivity to your liking.

Controller inputs are easy to assign, in part thanks to the ability to assign multiple common mappings with a single click. For instance, there’s an option to assign the left stick to the WASD keys. A simple but useful visualizer attends the controller section, showing trigger and stick behaviours in real time with your presses.

Aside from being able to create your own profiles, Synapse features some useful preset profiles, including those designed for certain games. For example, the Racing profile binds gamepad triggers and joysticks to the WASD keys. These profiles can be selected via Fn shortcuts, and there are hotkeys for other performance-related functions, too.

Synapse is clearly laid out and features helpful explanations and tutorials. It’s fast and smooth, although I did experience a few minor bugs. For instance, the keyboard passthrough feature for controller emulation, which allows keys not bound to controller inputs to work as normal, failed to work on occasion. However, a simple replug of the USB cable seemed to remedy the issue.

• Design and features score: 4 / 5

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Performance

• Precise analog response
• Slight harsh and numb keys
• Not great for typing

The keys in the Huntsman V3 are more clicky than thocky, although they feel less sharp than the clickiest switches out there. Their sound is both lower in pitch and quieter than many mechanical models, too.

They don’t have much dampening, which can make the board feel a little harsh at times. This is especially evident when typing — and the act isn’t made any easier by the thick keycaps, their elevated height, and the absence of a dip in the middle row. This combination makes gliding around the keys tricky, and it also causes some discomfort, owing to the angle at which you have to bend your wrists to reach them.

Thankfully, I was more comfortable when gaming in the WASD position. The keys are comfortably spaced, while the space bar and other peripheral keys are easy to reach.

The standout aspect of the Huntsman V3’s performance, though, is its analog response. It’s very precise and sensitive, reacting very well to different levels of pressure, which in turn gives you a broad range of control.

However, this precision is somewhat undermined by the lack of feel in the keys themselves. They don’t provide as much feedback as I would've liked, which can make it a little tricky to dial in the exact amount of pressure to hit certain actuation points or make smooth adjustments when emulating triggers and sticks.

What's more, there’s a small but noticeable amount of wobble to the keys, which means presses don’t feel particularly secure. Thankfully, though, most of the analog issues I’ve outlined only pertain to the top of presses; once you press further down, more resistance is generated from the springs, which allows for much smoother and more granular control.

• Performance score: 3.5 / 5

Should I buy the Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz?

Scorecard

Buy it if…

Don't buy it if…

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Also consider

How I tested the Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz

• Tested for several days
• Used many features
• Extensive gaming keyboard experience

I tested the Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz for several days, during which time I used it for gaming, working, and general use.

I played games such as Subnautica 2, which makes use of the typical first-person keys, from WASD and the number keys to the space bar and control and shift keys. I also played games that allowed me to make use of the Huntsman V3’s controller emulation, such as Assetto Corsa, by using W and S to emulate triggers and A and D in place of the left stick.

I’ve been PC gaming for over a decade, and have used a number of keyboards in that time. I’ve also reviewed a large number of them, including other Razer models.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

Corsair Galleon 100 SD one minute review

I still don't quite know what to make of Corsair's Galleon 100 SD gaming keyboard. On the one hand, the ethos of this thing, the switches, the design, the implementation are generally very well thought out, and it's solidly built too.

Sound-dampening is decent, the linear MLX switches are delightful to type on, and the Stream Deck integration on the right-hand panel gives the whole thing a lot more versatility than you first might think.

Whereas before your Stream Deck buttons sat beside your monitor, the Galleon 100 SD brings them within reach, taking up that numpad position instead. That makes it a more natural flow while you're gaming and streaming at the same time.

That's a long-winded way of saying you can actually use all of the Stream Deck's vast utility in-game, finally, without stretching halfway across your desk to do it. Not only can you have all of those macros and keybinds added into the numpad directly, with visual indicators as to what they actually do, but the display element gives you key system stats while you do it.

The bigger issue lies in the absolute bonanza of software you need to get this thing running. The Galleon, by default, requires two separate programs to fully function. Corsair's Web Hub, a PWA interface (or website effectively) that replaces the desktop iCUE app, allowing you to change your lighting, keybinds, polling rate, all with a lightweight web page rather than a full-blown software suite. And then the standalone desktop Stream Deck app, which you need to configure, well, the Stream Deck.

The worst part about that is that the Galleon's not backwards compatible with iCUE directly, and similarly, a lot of the "legacy" Corsair hardware hasn't made its way to the Web Hub either yet (there's a promise it's coming, but nothing confirmed). So, if you're running RGB lighting with some older fans, or a different mouse that isn't supported by Web Hub, you're effectively running iCUE, Web Hub, and the Stream Deck app to keep all of your Corsair products in line, and that just feels messy.

Then there's the price. It isn't cheap, by any measure. Yes, you are technically getting a full Stream Deck in here as well, so there's that to bear in mind, but it's near enough $100 more than the likes of Corsair's Makr Pro line (a markedly better keyboard if your sole aim is gaming).

It's a good board, and if you're not phased by the ludicrous software setup and the price tag, you'll get along with it just fine. Arguably for many, that expanded Stream Deck utility might make it one of the best gaming keyboards you could buy. But you really need to be able to justify what you gain from the Stream Deck itself. If you hesitate even for a moment on that thought, you might be better off looking elsewhere.

Corsair Galleon 100 SD review: Price & availability

• Priced astonishingly high for a standard mechanical keyboard
• Available globally today
• Only worth it if the Stream Deck is for you

Perhaps the biggest talking point of the Galleon 100 SD is that price tag. $350 and £310 (around AU$500) for a keyboard of this magnitude is a tough pill to swallow, particularly because at its bare bones, the keyboard itself doesn't really outclass boards a third of the cost.

Like yes, the MLX switches are lush to type on, pre-lubed, and there's plenty of sound dampening going on here, but those aren't exactly Corsair exclusives, and you can find a number of full-size boards from other manufacturers that feature exactly that, for a lot less.

Now, yes, of course, you do get that Stream Deck baked into the side here, sacrificing a full numpad for it (although technically that is a function that's available with a quick profile swap), but if you've already got a Stream Deck in any form, it's quite hard to justify the extra cost.

• Value: 3/5

Corsair Galleon 100 SD review: Specs

Corsair Galleon 100 SD review: Design

• Lush aluminum frame, dense and filled with sound-dampening
• Stream Deck replacing the numpad is wildly cool
• Twin dials is highly divisive, and the lighting is average

From a pure design perspective, there's a lot here that generally leans positive. The aluminum body is clean, solid, and it feels durable. There's little, if any, flex in the shell, and the sound dampening is doing its work nicely.

There's no errant pings or metallic rattlings going on here at all. Certainly not compared to the 2022 generation of K70 keyboards, that's a fact. And without a doubt, Corsair's keyboard design and build quality has come a long way in the last few years; that's very easy to see. Still, it's not quite as solid as the Makr line, nor does it feel as heavy.

Styling on the whole is a bit of a mixed bag. The aluminum outer shell mimics most of Corsair's product line right now with soft bevelled edges and this relatively satin-esque finish.

The top LED bar is a bit gauche. You've got this quite bizarre, triangular three-point pattern running along the length of it as a plastic strip with the Corsair logo embedded in the middle, which, if I'm honest, looks quite cheap. It would've been far better suited just to have a singular Corsair logo, and that's it. In fact, that's something that the Makr line does well.

I'm not entirely sold on the twin dial setup either. There's just something about it that looks a bit diabolical, and I can't quite place it. This is a bit of a hangover from the Stream Deck Plus, and I get the utility here being able to configure two dials to two different operations (particularly useful for video scrubbing, or creative work), but visually it's a bit eugh.

There's also a few other bells and whistles here, too. Namely, for some reason (despite there being a fully dedicated Stream Deck with 12 buttons, media controls, and twin dials over to the right) a fully embedded set of function keys here too. I mean, sure, why not? It's not like you're losing anything by having them.

Keycaps are clean, too. The font face is professional and sensible, more subdued than some of the more custom units out there, and the PBT touch is comfortable enough to type on, that's for sure. Corsair's also included two USB Type-C passthroughs on this thing as well.

Corsair Galleon 100 SD review: Performance

• MLX Pulse switches are smooth and satisfying, if over-damped.
• Stream Deck's finally usable in-game properly
• The three-app software stack drags the whole experience down

So the good news is, typing and gaming on the Galleon 100 is a real treat. It's smooth to use on those linear MLX switches feel buttery under touch. It's not quite as pleasant an experience for me as on the Makr Pro, or Asus ROG Strix Scope II RX, but it's still top quality. If you like a linear switch, and you're not quite as heavy-handed as I am, bottoming out every key strike, you'll love this thing.

The Stream Deck, too, is immensely satisfying to use. Once you've got it set up and it's swapping into profiles on game load, with your keybinds and macros set, it's a real treat. I've already mentioned, but having the keys within reach like that makes it far more useful than leaning across your desk to whack a macro real fast. Star Citizen in particular, and well, any simulator, rife with keybinds, benefits a ton.

I will say, the feel of those switches, though, sucks. Certainly, when you have the direct comparison of a mechanical switch right next to them. That's particularly jarring if you just need to use a numpad quickly to enter a pin, or your phone number. It's mentally very jarring. Almost like you're going back in time for a second, using a membrane board.

Then there's the software stack. Oh boy. You effectively need two programs to run this board efficiently. The Stream Deck app, to configure your deck profiles and each key, along with the display. That's local, sits on your desktop. Then, the Web Hub to configure the Corsair side of the keyboard. That's web-based (although you can install it on desktop via the "Save and Share -> Install page as an app" feature).

Web Hub is effectively a lighter-weight replacement for iCUE. You access it via URL. Configure your settings once, and it disappears into the ether. The problem with it is that it's not entirely backwards compatible with the rest of Corsair's legacy hardware. So, older products still need to be configured and set up via iCUE on your desktop. What's worse is that the Galleon isn't compatible with iCUE, so if you are embedded in the Corsair ecosystem, you're then left in a position where you have effectively three apps to control your products.

There's a more pressing issue, too, in that Web Hub isn't supported by all browsers currently. In short, it uses two browser APIs to access the keyboard directly via USB: WebHID, and WebUSB. Firefox doesn't natively support those APIs as it (rightly) views it as a harmful fingerprint/security attack vector that exposes your USB hardware unnecessarily to web pages. So it's not even a case of "Mozilla will catch up eventually", the company has taken a philosophical stance against the implementation of it, and it doesn't have anyone working on it.

Similarly, Brave, although Chromium-based, will only allow device configuration through Web Hub with permission enabled, and doesn't allow you to update the firmware at all. If you want to do any of that, you're effectively forced to install Chrome, Edge, or Opera.

It's a tricky one to justify. Particularly as iCUE itself was already stripped down in the last few years anyway. Currently, it only installs modules based on what you actually need and what products you have plugged in, rather than the entire back catalog.

Theoretically, yes, you could install a second browser specifically just for Web Hub. Then install that as a PWA app, but this just feels so hard to justify from a user experience perspective. It'd be far better just to add compatibility into iCUE directly, and it's hard to see why Corsair didn't.

Should I buy the Corsair Galleon 100 SD?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Also consider

How I tested the Corsair Galleon 100 SD

• Tested over three weeks as my daily driver
• Used for gaming, professional writing, and creative work
• Full Stream Deck integration tested
• Compared to competitors and my back catalogue, with 11 years of experience in the tech field

I lived with the Galleon 100 SD for about three weeks, running it as my main board. I tested it across all manner of different tasks, from creative agency work to freelance journalism and, of course, gaming sessions in Total War: Warhammer 3 and World of Warcraft as well.

During my time with it, it was the Stream Deck that I focused on most; after all, keyboards are very similar, and Corsair's got a name for making good ones, but implementing a Stream Deck into the side of it and swapping out the numpad? Had to be put through its paces.

I benchmarked it against a selection of modern-day keyboards I have in-house, and compared it to the wider market at the time of testing, including the Makr Pro 75, which I'd just finished up reviewing as well. I've spent over a decade testing PC hardware and peripherals, so I've got plenty of knowledge to draw on when it comes to mechanical keebs and the plucky old Stream Deck, too.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

HyperX Origins 2 1800: One-minute review

The HyperX Origins 2 1800 is a full-size gaming keyboard with mechanical switches and plenty of hardware customizations available.

It adopts a fairly typical gaming keyboard aesthetic, although the translucent body does at least offer something a little different. This also allows the RGB lighting to shine through a little more than usual. And shine it does — this is probably the brightest RGB I’ve ever seen in a keyboard, and it helps the board to stand out among its peers.

Build quality is above average, with materials feeling smooth. However, unlike the best gaming keyboard constructions around, the body is made of plastic rather than aluminum. There’s also a fair amount of flex to it.

On the other hand, it’s very light as a result, despite its thickness. It’s also easy to replace the body if you want to personalize your Origins 2, thanks to the easy-access screws underneath.

A board this thick often poses an ergonomic problem, but given the generous tilt angle of the Origins 2, I found it comfortable to use, even with the feet stowed and the lack of wrist support. The dip in the middle row allowed for natural finger positioning, too.

There is software available for the Origins 2, although it’s disappointingly basic. It does have a generous selection of remapping options, but there are no advanced or pro-level tweaks available here.

Elite gamers will be more impressed with the performance of the Origins 2, though. The stock Linear switches are very snappy and responsive, with just enough dampening and travel to impart satisfying feedback.

The stock keycaps are also comfortable, with their prominent indents providing a secure WASD position. The space bar is also pleasing to hit, thanks to its slightly rounded top, and the aforementioned tilt of the entire board prevents you from hitting its edge. However, the sheer height of the keycaps can make typing difficult.

There’s no denying that the Origins 2 commands a premium price tag, but it is a premium gaming keyboard. The mechanical switches and hardware customizations are top-tier, and it still costs less than some of its rivals. The software is disappointing and typing is difficult with those stock keycaps, but for those who want a pure mechanical experience, the Origins 2 is hard to beat at this price.

HyperX Origins 2 1800 review: Price and availability

• $139.99 / £119.99 (about AU$200)
• Available now in one colorway
• Reasonable price for a mechanical keyboard

The HyperX Origins 2 1800 costs $139.99 / £119.99 (about AU$200) and is available now in black only. The keycaps, switches, and body can all be swapped out.

This is certainly an expensive board, especially one that’s wired. However, given the high-performing mechanical switches, build quality, and hot swapping capabilities, it’s not exactly surprising.

What’s more, other high-end boards are similarly expensive, if not more so. The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro, for instance, has a slightly higher list price, although we have seen it on offer for considerably less than this. When I tested the wireless variant of this board, the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, I found it to be among the best mechanical keyboards in terms of feel, performance, and build quality.

For a more budget mechanical option, you could try the Gamakay TK75 V2. This is considerably cheaper than the Origins 2, yet it still offers great key feel and respectable build quality.

• Value score: 4 / 5

HyperX Origins 2 1800 review: Specs

HyperX Origins 2 1800 review: Design and features

• Hardware personalization options
• Thick but lightweight
• Premium feel as plastic constructions go

Aesthetically, the Origins 2 is hard to distinguish from many gaming keyboards. HyperX may call the color black but in reality it’s more of a dark grey, which departs somewhat from the sector’s obsidian dominance, albeit not by much.

Its translucent nature, though, is more original. What’s more, it allows the RGB backlighting to shine through. This lighting is brighter than many other instances I’ve seen, and really helps to liven up appearances. The keycap characters are fully transparent too, meaning these illuminate as well, which isn’t always a given on RGB keyboards.

The Origins 2 feels like a premium board. The base material, despite being plastic rather than metal, is of a high standard and the two panels are solidly put together. The unit is quite easy to flex by hand, but not to a concerning degree. This plastic also means the Origins 2 isn’t as heavy as it looks, given how thick it is. It’s also relatively easy to change the housing, requiring just a small crosshead screwdriver (not included) to disassemble and swap with another.

Its thickness isn’t much of a problem from an ergonomic perspective. There’s no wrist support included, but the forward tilt of the board makes for a comfortable hand position. The dip in the middle row, typical of many keyboards, also helps in this regard. There are folding feet that angle the board towards the user even more, but the difference isn’t as great as other examples.

The USB-C cable that comes with the Origins 2 is braided and quite light. This makes it easy to maneuver, although it’s not quite as light as those that come with the best gaming mice. Thankfully, drag isn’t exactly an issue when it comes to keyboards. Also, the cable seems a little stiffer and hardwearing than mice ones.

The latest version of HyperX’s Ngenuity software is required to customize the Origins 2. However, I couldn’t get this to work on my main gaming PC for some reason, with the app refusing to open once installed. Fortunately, I was able to install it on another Windows 11 machine.

However, the dearth of features available for the Origins 2 is disappointing. You can only adjust the RGB lighting, record macros, and rebind keys. There are plenty of options for the latter, with numerous system and media functions mappable, but there are no performance-related tweaks. Granted, a mechanical keyboard is never going to match the versatility of analog models on this front, but even more basic features, such as an SOCD function, are missing here, which might disappoint elite gamers.

• Design and features score: 3.5 / 5

HyperX Origins 2 1800 review: Performance

• Brilliant clicky mechanical switches
• Comfortable for WASD position
• Stock keycaps not great for typing

With its stock red Linear switches installed, the Origins 2 is a very clicky board. It produces a gratifying sound, although it’s a little louder than others. The keys are light but at the same time offer plenty of feedback, thanks to their minimal but effective dampening and generous travel distance. They rebound quickly, making them wonderfully snappy, and their actuation point is quite forgiving, which meant I didn’t suffer any mispresses.

Despite the thickness of the board, I found it comfortable to use in the WASD position, thanks to that slanted angle and central dip. Whether I had the feet up or down, I didn’t find myself wanting for wrist support, although I usually prefer a rest for long sessions.

I also found the space bar comfortable to hit, which is often a problem key for me. Its soft curve meant I rarely hit its edge. As for the other keycaps, their prominent indentations offered secure presses.

These aspects also make the Origins 2 comfortable when typing, but a bigger impediment here is the sheer height of the stock keycaps. I usually prefer low profiles as I find I can glide over them more easily. But here, I often caught their edges as I moved from key to key, which slowed me down and resulted in more errors.

• Performance score: 4 / 5

Should I buy the HyperX Origins 2 1800?

Scorecard

Buy it if…

Don't buy it if…

HyperX Origins 2 1800 review: Also consider

How I tested the HyperX Origins 2 1800

I tested the Origins 2 for several days, during which time I used it for gaming, working, and general browsing. I tested it on two PCs. As mentioned above, I was unable to get the Ngenuity software working on my main PC, but did on another, despite both running Windows 11 with x64 CPUs.

I’ve been PC gaming for over a decade, and have used numerous keyboards in that time. I’ve also reviewed a large number of them, across a range of price points, feature sets, and switch types.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

Wobkey Zen 65: review

The Wobkey Zen 65 is the third keyboard in the company's lineup, and the first to tackle the super compact 65% form factor. Available in two variants, the Lite ($125.99) and the Ultra ($149.99), it shares a CNC aluminum case across both models but differentiates on plate material, switch choice, and battery capacity.

The Wobkey Zen 65 Ultra model I’ve been testing here ships with Kailh Luna switches, an FR4 plate, and a 6,000mAh battery split across two cells, while the Lite has HMX Violet switches, a polycarbonate plate, and a single 3,000mAh cell instead.

Build quality on the Wobkey Zen 65 itself is superb, in keeping with some of the best keyboards, and it’s helped further by a premium unboxing experience with a couple of nice included extras. It arrives nestled in its own hard shell carrying case with a soft flannel storage bag, too. It’s a little thing, but it’s a nice touch and would do a great job of protecting the keyboard in a backpack if you move between setups.

The CNC aluminum case on the White Gold colorway in front of me is understated and elegant, though I’d say it’s closer to cream than white. The double-shot PBT keycaps feature subtle pastel blue and pink coloring and the whole thing would look right at home in an all-white desk setup. The legends on each key are bold and legible, though the lack of shine-through means you’ll need to ramp up the RGB backlighting brightness to have any real impact unless the room is dark.

Wobkey has fully committed to a minimalist aesthetic on the Zen 65 and bar the USB-C port on the back, there are almost no visible interruptions to its clean, flowing lines. That leaves it looking great.

Unfortunately, though, it’s also at the expense of practicality because the power switch ends up tucked away under the Caps Lock key. I don’t just mean slightly obscured either: I mean you’ll need to completely remove the keycap in order to switch the board on or off. It’s a bizarre choice in both theory and practice, though admittedly I can’t remember the last time I actually turned a wireless keyboard off.

Much more clever is the hidden cubbyhole for the 2.4GHz dongle under the magnetic logo plate on the bottom. Could we not have tucked the power button in there too, Wobkey?

Weighing in at more than 3 lbs / 1.36 kg, this is a seriously dense keyboard for a 65% layout and I almost couldn’t believe how heavy it was for such a compact size. That heft keeps the board planted firmly on your desk during extended typing or gaming sessions, while also making the Zen 65 feel like a premium bit of kit.

The 240g internal brass weight is partly responsible, though it’s not just there for ballast. It sits between the PCB and battery compartment to absorb keystroke vibrations and it shifts the sound profile lower and deeper than the aluminum case alone would produce. The result is a smooth, satisfying thock that’s a pleasure to listen to. It’s not the quietest of boards but each clack is rounded off in a way that means it blends into the hum of an office rather than jumping out and grabbing attention.

The Kailh Luna switches are linear and smooth, and the stabilizers across the spacebar, backspace, and shift keys are rock solid with zero rattle. They actuate at 0.07 inches / 1.8mm with just 1.6 oz / 45g of force, which is on the shorter end for these kinds of switches, and combined with the light spring weight can make the board feel a little twitchy. I had a noticeable number of accidental key presses during testing, particularly when in full typing flow. It’s not a major problem — there’s just not much margin for error if you clip a nearby key on your way to the one you wanted.

You’ll also need to adjust to the Zen 65’s fixed typing angle, which is set at seven degrees. The front edge isn’t overly high so I didn’t particularly struggle, but I’ll always campaign for some level of angle adjustment on any board.

The FR4 plate in the Ultra variant also contributes to a noticeably firm bottom-out. The total switch travel is on the short side too at 0.12 oz / 3.5mm, so there's less cushion before hitting the floor. Combined with the brass weight and foam dampening layers, the result is a controlled, defined stock keystroke rather than a plush one.

For gaming, those characteristics flip in the Zen 65's favor. The shorter actuation and light spring weight translate to faster inputs with less finger fatigue, and the firm bottom-out provides a clear feedback point that's easier to build muscle memory around. There’s a toggleable N-key rollover mode too that ensures every simultaneous keypress registers cleanly during complex combos.

I say stock keystroke because while I enjoyed the out-of-the-box experience, there is plenty of room for fiddling with the Wobkey Zen 65. The ball-catch quick release pops the top case off in seconds with no tools and Wobkey includes parts to switch between four mounting configurations at various levels of rigidity. It's an impressive level of tunability for a pre-built board at any price, let alone this one, and the toolless case design means experimenting between them takes seconds rather than requiring a full teardown. If you’re new to taking apart your keyboard and dialing things in, this is a great choice.

Software customization is handled with the third-party VIA web app. It’s the same clunky setup experience you’ll find with other boards taking this approach and you’ll need to upload a JSON configuration file to unlock the full feature set. Once you’ve done this though, the feature set is rich with plenty of options to play with.

Tri-mode connectivity covers wired USB-C, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth 5.0, with support for up to three paired Bluetooth devices across both Windows and macOS (though annoyingly there are no Mac-specific alternate keycaps in the box). Switching between modes is handled through keyboard shortcuts, as are a number of other keyboard admin functions — Wobkey deserves credit for including a quick reference card in the box that clearly explains what does what. My favorite touch is checking the battery, where pressing the right key combination lights up the number row to show remaining charge. Neat.

One firmware oddity I encountered is the Caps Lock indicator LED, which illuminates the left half of the key in white, but doesn't turn off promptly when Caps Lock is disengaged. On multiple occasions during testing, the light remained on for anywhere up to 10 seconds after the function had already been disabled. I’m not going to lose sleep over it, but it’s a quirk I’d like to see corrected with a firmware update.

Wobkey Zen 65 review: price and release date

• Available now
• The Wobkey Zen 65 Ultra retails from $149.99 / £149.89 / AU$263.47
• The Wobkey Zen 65 Lite retails from $125.99 / £124.99 / AU$225.74

The Zen 65 originally launched via Kickstarter in June 2025 and is now available through various channels including the Wobkey store, though prices do seem to vary quite dramatically between outlets so it’s worth shopping around.

Wobkey Zen 65 review: Specs

Should I buy the Wobkey Zen 65?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Wobkey Zen 65 review: Also consider

How I tested the Wobkey Zen 65

• The Zen 65 Ultra was my daily driver across work and gaming, including typing up this review
• Tested all three connection modes (USB-C, 2.4GHz, Bluetooth) and multi-device switching
• Evaluated stock switch feel, stabilizer quality, and acoustic performance without modifications

My testing focused on the out-of-box experience using the default plate gasket mount configuration with stock Kailh Luna switches and keycaps. I used the Wobkey Zen 65 for extended writing sessions and gaming across both wired and wireless modes, and played around with configuration settings both with the VIA app and using onboard commands.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

• Cherry's new Ultra-Wideband gaming keyboard was during Computex 2026
• The Cherry XTRFY K63W features a 'true 8,000 Hz polling rate' wired and wireless
• It launches in the US in August at $169.99, and in the EU at €179.99 in July

The hardware announcements for gamers are coming thick and fast straight out of Computex 2026, and one of the latest products is primed for PC mouse-and-keyboard (MnK) gamers.

In its press release, Cherry announced the 'first 8K Ultra-Wideband gaming keyboard', the XTRFY K63W Pro Compact, which it categorizes as a high-performance option for MnK gaming.

The keyboard comes with a 'true 8,000 Hz polling rate', meaning it transmits data to a computer up to eight times every millisecond, ensuring latency isn't a point of concern when gaming.

It also helps that the polling rate applies to both wired and wireless connections, with the latter being a strong Ultra-Wideband (UWB) dongle connection, and that's paired with a 6,000 mAh battery, which Cherry claims lasts for 1,100 hours of usage.

Fortunately, battery life is effectively irrelevant for non-portable scenarios, as the K63W Pro can be charged while in use.

On paper, this sounds like the ideal gaming keyboard for competitive players, especially those intent on finding the ideal option for wireless gaming sessions. As a primary controller gamer myself, it has piqued my interest, which may serve as one of the best companions for games that play better on MnK (i.e., Path of Exile 2).

Cherry's low-profile and compact keyboard design is a sight for sore eyes, as it has reduced the K63W's size and bulk, noted as a '70% compact layout' in favor of space for mouse movement.

I've also never been able to stick with wireless keyboards as my main option for both work and play, due to frustrating latency issues, especially with Bluetooth connectivity — and while many high-end options solve those latency issues, they're also expensive.

The Cherry K63W will be available at $169.99 in August, while launching in the EU for €179.99 (£179.99) in July. Frankly, it's still quite expensive compared to some of the more affordable high-quality options on the market, but for what it's worth in terms of specifications, it's a great option.

Keychron K3 HE: One-minute review

The Keychron K3 HE is an analog keyboard with a minimalist form that belies its wealth of features.

The first thing I noticed was just how compact it is. Even for a board with a 75% layout, it’s small across all dimensions. It’s also quite light, which makes it a good portable option.

More impressive is the fact that build quality doesn’t appear to have been sacrificed. It feels solid and premium, rivaling the best gaming keyboard constructions. I also liked the wooden edge trim, which lends it a certain style that sets it apart from most in this sector, dominated as it is by plastics and metals.

However, despite being quite thin, my wrists still had to bend upwards to a slightly uncomfortable degree. The K3 HE is certainly worth pairing with a wrist rest, and it’s a shame one isn’t included. The two-stage feet don’t provide enough of a tilt to mitigate this, either.

The K3 HE also lacks the dipped middle row typical of many keyboards. What’s more, the keycaps are slanted forward, which, while I found comfortable, others might not.

On top of this, the keys also feel a little heavier than I'm used to, but they’re still quick and responsive. They provide plenty of feedback and sufficient dampening.

Since the K3 HE has analog switches, there are plenty of adjustments you can make to their feel and response in Keychron’s web app. This app is based on the open-source QMK firmware. Aside from adjusting the actuation point, you can also enable Rapid Trigger, assign multiple inputs to a single key, and even adjust the curve profile, to alter sensitivity as the key travels past certain points. There’s also an option to emulate controller inputs, but I couldn’t get this mode to work in practice.

The software is clearly laid out, but there’s no standalone app, and you can only use it when the K3 HE is connected via the USB cable. What’s more, updating the firmware is needlessly complicated, and there are a few usability issues that may prove frustrating when tinkering frequently.

However, the K3 HE represents good value when you consider all that it offers. Not many can compete with its quality and feature set at this price point. If you don't mind the unique key shape and can live with slightly inefficient software, the K3 HE is a good pick for those after plenty of analog functionality without spending the earth.

Keychron K3 HE review: Price & availability

• $119.99 (about £90 / AU$170)
• Available now in black and white
• Good price for an analog keyboard

The Keychron K3 HE costs $119.99 (about £90 / AU$170) and is available now in two colorways: black and white.

This is a good price for an analog keyboard, and a hot-swappable one at that. It’s slightly less expensive than the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro. Like the K3 HE, this board features various customization options, including controller emulation — which actually worked when I tested this model. However, it doesn’t feel quite as premium, and it’s not so great for typing.

For a more luxury analog experience, the Steelseries Apex Pro can’t be beat. This is probably the best analog keyboard I’ve ever used. The key feel is glorious, allowing for superb control, and the whole unit is built like a tank. It’s seriously expensive, though.

Keychron K3 HE review: Specs

Keychron K3 HE review: Design and features

• Light and compact
• Well-made
• Web app usability issues

The Keychron K3 HE cuts a minimal figure. It’s pleasingly light and compact, which makes it easy to move around or take with you on your travels.

It looks smart, too, and although I wasn’t sure about the wooden sides at first, they grew on me quickly. They also offer a nice counterpoint to the inorganic slabs adopted by many gaming keyboards. The RGB backlighting adds some vibrancy, but it doesn’t shine through the keycap characters, which is a shame as this would’ve made them easier to see in dark environments.

Build quality is also admirable. The plastic chassis feels smooth and solid, while the two-stage feet fold out with ease and offer a surprising amount of stability, preventing me from accidentally moving the board around, as I’ve experienced with others.

Despite the compact layout, you still get arrow and navigation keys, which I’m always pleased to see for productivity’s sake. There are also some basic but useful FN shortcuts on the F row, including one for screenshotting and several for media playback. These are all clearly labelled.

The K3 HE doesn’t feature a dipped middle row common on many keyboards, but the unique forward slant of the keycaps compensates for this somewhat. Along with their low profile, It makes it easier to hit them flush. However, I can imagine some won’t like this unique design.

Even taking into account the compact nature of the K3 HE, it still sits quite high off the ground, while the feet, despite having two-stages, fail to create much tilt. These aspects mean your wrists have to bend further than you might think to reach the keys. Using a wrist rest helped to alleviate my discomfort, but you’ll have to provide your own, since the K3 HE doesn’t come with one.

I appreciated the location of the switches for toggling connectivity modes and operating systems, too. They’re on the left side of the unit, rather than at the back as is typical, which makes them easier to reach.

However, the USB-C port is also on this side, which may prove a little inconvenient for certain setups. At least the included USB cable has an L-shaped jack, which means it doesn’t protrude as much as a standard one.

To customize the inputs of the K3 HE, you’ll need to use Keychron’s web app in a browser (there’s no standalone app you can download). You also need to be in wired mode. You can only use the web app in wireless mode to update the firmware of the 2.4GHz dongle.

However, updating the firmware is a convoluted process. You first need to download the Toolbox Driver, and then follow the process in the web app, although it’s not entirely clear when the update is complete. During this whole process, I encountered an error, with a dialog box instructing me to upload a required JSON file. It gave me no hint as to what file specifically was needed or where to acquire it, but somehow I got around the issue and the firmware successfully updated.

To update the firmware of the keyboard itself, you have to hold the escape key and disconnect the cable before reconnecting it. I then had to disconnect and reconnect the cable after this finished in order for it to be recognized again by the web app.

Keychron K3 HE review: Performance

• Key resistance provides control
• Plenty of analog tweaks available
• Some connectivity issues

The Keychron K3 HE is a competent keyboard, whether you’re gaming or typing. The keys are a mixture of thocky and clicky, although they’re slightly biased towards the latter. Dampening is reasonable, but they don’t feel very well lubed. Presses can certainly be heard, but they’re far from the noisiest out there.

What stands out most of all, though, is their resistance. They’re heavier than you might expect, but since you can adjust their actuation point, they’re still capable of responding instantly. This resistance can be beneficial, too, as it can make typing more forgiving. The generous spacing between the keys can also help to prevent erroneous presses.

Despite their resistance, I didn’t find them a chore to use. They rebound quickly, making them snappier than they otherwise would. When playing games such as Counter-Strike 2, I didn’t find the WASD keys onerous to hold for long periods at a time.

The weight also provides greater control when pressing keys part way, which you’ll need to do if you want to make full use of the K3 HE’s analog functionality. Speaking of which, there is a smorgasbord of options in this area.

In addition to setting the actuation point (which has a range of 0.2 to 2.8mm), you can also enable Rapid Trigger. This is a common feature on many analog keyboards, but with the K3 HE, you can adjust both the trigger and the reset distances, rather than just the latter.

You can toggle a progress bar to show the travel of key presses in real time, which is something I’m always pleased to see in analog keyboard software. However, Keychron’s goes one step further by accompanying this with a readout in millimeters. This is even more helpful, and not something I’ve seen before in such visualizers.

It’s a shame, however, that this visualizer doesn’t show the effects of your Rapid Trigger settings, which is the area most deserving of visual representation, given its not-so-obvious operation. It’s also annoying that you have to turn the visualizer back on every time you make adjustments to the actuation point or Rapid Trigger, or whenever you navigate back from a different section of the software. What’s more, the visualizer is only available when adjusting one key at a time, but not multiple.

Other analog functions on the K3 HE include the ability to assign up to four inputs to a single key, which trigger based on how far down you press said key. You can also adjust the curve profile by selecting one of two presets or creating your own. This is done by dragging four points on a graph to adjust sensitivity over the course of a key’s travel. This kind of adjustment is more common on the best PC controllers, but rarely seen on analog keyboards.

Speaking of which, there’s also a gamepad emulation feature in the web app, which includes the ability to mimic the analog control of joysticks and triggers. However, I couldn’t get this to work on the games I tried. This isn’t an issue with the games themselves, since I’ve got similar features to work on other analog keyboards.

In addition to analog-based customizations, the web app also has a SOCD function with a generous number of settings, and there are plenty of key mapping options. Naturally, there’s also a macro recording facility.

The K3 HE connected well via its different methods, and I didn’t experience any lag or dropouts while using the board. Hot-switching between devices was quick and easy for the most part, although there were times when it failed to re-establish a connection, particularly when switching from wired to wireless mode.

Battery life isn’t particularly great, either. After only a couple of days of using a mixture of connectivity methods, it died. Also, I couldn’t see a battery life indicator anywhere for the K3 HE, either on the board itself or in the web app, which seems like a gross oversight.

Should I buy the Keychron K3 HE?

Scorecard

Buy it if…

Don't buy it if…

Keychron K3 HE review: Also consider

How I tested the Keychron K3 HE

• Tested for several days
• Used for gaming and working
• Experienced keyboard reviewer

I tested the Keychron K3 HE for several days. I used it for gaming, working, and general browsing. I used all of its connectivity modes.

I used its web app to make as many adjustments and enable as many of its analog features as I could. I played games such as Counter-Strike 2 to test its gaming prowess.

I’ve reviewed plenty of keyboards in my time, from everyday workhorses to gaming powerhouses, with varying price points, form factors, and switch types.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: May 2026

Epomaker P65 review

In the world of mechanical keyboards, it can often look like brands are all trying to one up each other simply for the sake of it. It’s as if they feel they must be the most feature-packed, the most outlandishly designed, or have the highest spec numbers.

Epomaker has gone the other way with its premium P series, and the Epomaker P65 arrives as the most compact entry in a lineup, which also includes the P75 (75%) and P87 (TKL). All three share the same core DNA: CNC aluminum construction, gasket mounting, five-layer sound dampening, and VIA/QMK programmability. The P65 I’ve been testing takes that formula and squeezes it into a 65% layout with 66 keys and a rotary knob.

The first thing that hits you with the Epomaker P65 is its weight. At 1.3kg, this is a dense, planted keyboard that both looks and sounds like one solid hunk of metal, because it essentially is. Both the top frame and the bottom chassis are CNC-machined aluminum with a lovely anodized finish. That’s an unusually premium build for a $119 keyboard, as most boards in this bracket use an aluminum top plate over a plastic base.

My Khaki review unit has a retro, old-school aesthetic that’s reminiscent of stock keyboards from school computer labs, just significantly more upmarket. It’s a look that won’t appeal to everyone, and there’s a plain black option available too if that’s the case, but I found it refreshingly understated in a market full of aggressive RGB-littered designs.

Speaking of which, the P65 does include south-facing per-key lighting, but it’s quite muted when viewed from a normal typing position. I’m not particularly disappointed by that because it feels slightly at odds with the vintage vibe of the Khaki colorway, though you can always turn it off and I imagine it looks a little more at home in the black trim.

The double-shot PBT keycaps are well-made, with a subtle texture that feels good under the fingers. The font is simple and clear, though I did notice some strangely inconsistent stroke weights on keys like Backspace and Enter. Some letters appear thinner than others in a way that looks less like a stylistic choice and more like a rendering issue or printing problem.

Where the Epomaker P65 really shines is sound. My unit uses Epomaker’s own Zebra linear switches, or you could opt for the heavier Wisteria option instead. Combined with the aluminum case and five-layer dampening stack, the result is one of the most satisfying sound profiles I’ve tested in a while.

It’s deliciously smooth and creamy. Every keystroke has a clean, rounded character that scratches a very specific part of my brain. A warning though: it’s loud. This is not a keyboard for a shared office or an open-plan workspace. I can’t blame it wanting to be heard when it sounds this good, but there’s no missing it.

Typing performance is strong. I hit 129 words per minute at 97% accuracy in testing, which is comfortably above my average of 116/96. This result surprised me since the board didn’t feel quite that fast or clean during use, though I did notice I settled in with it much easier than other mechanical keyboards. The Zebra switches actuate at just 40g, making them light and snappy with a softness from that gasket-mount design.

However, the fixed six-degree typing angle is less ideal. I don’t actually mind the angle myself, but there are no adjustable feet at all and I would have liked the option to go a little flatter and steeper to see the difference. There’s also quite a tall, sheer front edge that isn’t ideal for extended typing sessions. For gaming and general messing about it’s not an issue, but for all-day productivity usage, I’d recommend adding a wrist rest.

Connectivity covers the three usual bases: three-device Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless via an included USB-A dongle (that has a neat magnetic cubby on the back), and wired USB-C. The Bluetooth connection was solid and reliable in my testing, though I had to dig into the manual to find the function key shortcuts for pairing and switching between device slots. There’s nothing printed on the keycaps to indicate which keys handle Bluetooth functions, which is a minor inconvenience during initial setup.

It’s also worth noting that while this keyboard is fully compatible with both Windows and macOS, there’s no toggle switch to jump between modes and no alternate keycaps included to swap between platforms. I don’t necessarily need entirely different caps, but having the relevant symbols printed on there would have been nice to see.

The 4,000mAh battery delivers decent life without being a standout, offering roughly 16 hours with RGB on and up to 260 hours without. For gaming, the 1,000Hz polling rate over both 2.4GHz and wired is perfectly adequate and I never felt like my inputs were lagging behind. The P65 doesn’t pretend to be a competitive gaming weapon, and it lacks the adjustable actuation and rapid trigger features of Hall Effect boards, but as a general all-rounder it handles itself well.

If you’d like to mix things up, the P65’s hot-swappable PCB supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches, which is welcome given that limited stock selection of just two linear options. Swapping switches is straightforward with the included tool, but the tiny metal pins demand care and attention to get them lined up. It’s more nerve-wracking than boards where you can just slap a switch on without much ceremony. It’s not difficult and they do largely line themselves up; it’s just fiddly.

The weakest link is software. The Epomaker P65 uses VIA for customization, which is powerful once it’s running, but getting there is more effort than it should be. Both the web app and the downloadable version required manually uploading a JSON file from Epomaker’s product page to identify the keyboard, and even that took a couple of attempts before it stuck. Once recognized, all the expected functionality is here: key remapping, macros, lighting control, and a fun keyboard testing mode that plays sounds as you hit each key. But the overall experience feels more like you’re accessing a developer tool than a customer-facing app. Other brands in this price range are delivering smoother software onboarding, and Epomaker needs to close that gap.

Epomaker P65 review: Price & release date

• $119.99 / £89, often seen on sale
• Available via retailers but strangely absent from Epomaker’s website

At $119.99 / £89, the Epomaker P65 sits in a competitive price bracket and undercuts most of its aluminum-bodied rivals while maintaining build quality. Despite being a relatively new release, it’s not difficult to find it on sale with one retailer or another, which makes the value proposition even harder to argue with.

Epomaker P65 review: Specs

Should I buy the Epomaker P65?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Epomaker P65 review: Also consider

How I tested the Epomaker P65

• Tested over a week as my daily driver for writing, browsing, and gaming
• Used across a Windows PC and MacBook Air via all three connectivity modes
• Typing speed tested using 10fastfingers, gaming tested across casual and competitive titles

I used the Epomaker P65 as my primary keyboard for a week, switching between a Windows desktop (wired and 2.4GHz) and a MacBook Air (Bluetooth). Daily use included writing (including this review!), general browsing, Discord chats, and gaming across a mix of casual and competitive titles. I tested typing speed and accuracy using 10fastfingers, played with settings in both the installed and web version of VIA, swapped switches using the included tool, and assessed battery life with RGB enabled during normal use.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: May 2026

Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K: two-minute review

The premium keyboard space is weird, man. I've been reviewing PC hardware long enough to know that you can usually get a pretty darn good product without spending top dollar, but that's arguably not always the case with keyboards. The bottom end of the market is awash with crappy membrane keys and cheap mechanical switches that fail at the drop of a hat, so I find myself frequently more likely to recommend more premium offerings like the Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K.

Priced at $229.99 (around £170/AU$320), it's certainly aiming to be one of the best keyboards on the market, and it does a lot to justify that admittedly rather steep price of admission. Straight out of the box, this feels like a high-end keyboard: the chassis is crafted from CNC-machined aluminum, weighing almost two kilograms in total, with doubleshot PBT keycaps.

For typing, it's a dream; the Keychron Silk POM Banana key switches have an immensely satisfying thwock to them, sitting somewhere between the quiet linear actuation of traditional red switches and the loud clickiness of tactile brown switches. The whole user experience feels great, with multiple connectivity modes and great battery life for wireless use.

I would hazard that, despite featuring the obligatory RGB key backlighting, this likely won't be the ideal option for gamers seeking the best gaming keyboard — at least, not with the Banana key switches in my review model. There is a linear red option available, which offers slightly greater key travel and significantly reduced actuation force, and high-intensity gamers will probably find that better.

While the Q1 Ultra 8K's namesake 8,000Hz polling rate is ostensibly aimed squarely at PC gamers, offering ultra-fast responsiveness and near-zero input lag, it's frankly a bit of a gimmick. All but the twitchiest pro gamers are unlikely to notice any real-world difference; in fact, I used the Q1 Ultra 8K for almost two days before realizing that the 8K polling mode was switched off by default, and I'd been playing Marathon with the regular 1,000Hz polling — and I didn't notice the slightest bit of input latency, so this is a somewhat milquetoast complaint on my part.

Overall, this is a very good keyboard that doesn't quite reach all-around perfection, but will still prove a worthy purchase for anyone who spends a lot of time typing at their PC. If you're looking for something compact but still satisfying to type on, the Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K is a solid choice. If you want a compact keyboard to take on the go, though, look elsewhere — this one is far too heavy for that!

Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K review: Price & release date

• Costs $229.99 (around £170/AU$320)
• Available now in the US
• Sits at the upper end of the market price-wise

At the time of writing, it appears that the Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K isn't available to shoppers in the UK and Australia — potential buyers in those regions will have to settle for the Q1 Max, which offers a similarly premium design but uses slightly cheaper key switches and lacks the 8K polling rate feature.

If you're in the US (or willing to import), you can pick up the Q1 Ultra 8K for $229.99 (around £170/AU$320) – a fairly steep price, though one that puts it in the same bracket as the similarly great SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3. Looking at the wider premium mechanical keyboard market, this pricing is reasonably competitive.

Inside the box, you get a set of alternate keycaps for switching between Windows and macOS compatibility, along with a USB-C to USB-C charging cable, USB-A adapter, and a small set of tools for hot-swapping both the keycaps and key switches.

• Price score: 3.5/5

Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K review: Specs

Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K review: Design & features

• Robust machined aluminum chassis
• Comfortable concave PBT keycaps
• Great degree of customization

My review unit of the Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K uses the black colorway, and I really like it. Almost the entire unit has a matte black finish, with dark gray used for accenting for keys around the edge of the board and a bright cyan tone for the Esc and Enter keys.

Combined with the tall, blocky keycaps, simple lettering, and the highly satisfying physical volume knob in the top-right corner, it's all got a distinctly retrofuturist feel to it. The white colorway rocks a similar vibe with gray and red accent keys that would make it look right at home aboard the USCSS Nostromo.

Indeed, I was almost loath to turn on the RGB lighting, because it almost detracts from the clean, retro vibe this keyboard has going for it. Fortunately, those RGB LEDs are addressable on a per-key basis, and Keychron's free software gives you a wide degree of customization. Personally, I was a lot happier with the aesthetic of the Q1 Ultra 8K after setting the backlighting to a cool blue that matched the accent keys.

The all-metal construction means there's virtually no flex or sponginess in the chassis whatsoever, with every keypress feeling very solid. However, it also means that this keyboard weighs a whopping 1.73kg – quite literally more than many of the laptops I've reviewed for TechRadar, and far too heavy to be practical as an on-the-go keyboard despite its compact design.

The Silk POM Banana switches require quite a bit of actuation force, which takes a bit of adjusting to if you're coming from a non-tactile keyboard with either linear or membrane switches. They also have less travel distance, which might be an issue for some mech keyboard purists, but didn't bother me in the slightest once I got used to typing on it.

Both the keycaps and the key switches themselves are hot-swappable, and the box includes a puller tool, a hex key, and a mini screwdriver for making your own adjustments should you want to do so. It also comes with a set of alternate keycaps to swap it over to Windows compatibility mode (the default keyboard layout is for macOS), and there are two switches on the rear edge for switching OS and connectivity modes along with a standard USB-C charging port, a cable for which is included in the box.

Given the degree of available customization and the robust, high-quality design of the surrounding board, the Q1 Ultra 8K could be a solid choice for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts who want to tweak their hardware. The larger keys also feature new screw-in PCB stabilizers, which help make the space bar in particular feel a lot less wobbly than it does on some mechanical keyboards, especially when hitting it at either end with your thumb. The double-gasket key switch design uses two separate silicone pads (as well as an acoustic pad on the bottom of the keyboard) to reach a deliberate and very satisfying typing sound that takes me right back to the early 2000s.

In terms of the aforementioned connectivity modes, you've got a few options. Wired will be the way to go for most gamers, as it ensures minimal input latency hand-in-hand with the 8K polling rate feature. This can be done directly via USB-C to USB-C using the included cable, but there's also a USB-C to USB-A adapter in the box in case you don't have any free USB-C ports.

If you prefer a wireless connection, the Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K supports both Bluetooth 5.3 and 2.4GHz connectivity, both of which I found to be highly effective in my tests. The 2.4GHz option is probably a little more reliable in terms of input latency, particularly in environments with heavy Bluetooth signal traffic (I was testing this keyboard in the privacy of my own very rural home, not a busy office!), but I didn't experience any noticeable problems with the Bluetooth mode.

The last unique design feature I'll touch on is hidden on the underside of the keyboard: a wide gold 'art plate' with a sort of astronomy-themed pattern engraved on it. What purpose does this serve? None, as far as I can tell, and you won't even be able to see it when actually using the keyboard. It looks fairly nice, I guess, but it feels slightly like a pointless addition.

Completely absent from the base of this keyboard, however, are any sort of adjustable feet. For a $200+ keyboard, that's simply unacceptable. It won't bother some users, but as someone who prefers a steeper keyboard incline to use with my padded wrist rest, it might actually be a dealbreaker for me if I were opening my own wallet – so for that, I must dock a point from Keychron.

• Design and features: 4/5

Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K review: Performance

• Satisfying typing with sharp actuation
• 8,000Hz polling rate is nice, but sort of unnecessary
• Looooong battery life

I'm always a little dubious when keyboard companies start making their own key switches instead of using the ever-dependable Cherry and Gateron brands, but the Keychron Silk POM switches in this keyboard are really very nice to use.

As I mentioned further up, I think the Banana yellow switches in my review model are a bit better suited to typing than gaming, though they're certainly not bad. I used the Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K to play several games, including Warframe, Marathon, and Remnant II, and didn't have any significant issues with misinputs or keypresses not registering. The higher actuation force of the Banana switches compared to the mainstream linear red switches you'll find in many gaming keyboards did take a little bit of getting used to, but I still found it to be perfectly acceptable.

For typing, though? This keyboard is a dream. The concave keycap tops let your fingertips slide into the center of each key for confident inputs, even when touch-typing at speed, and the reduced travel and subtle bounce on the Banana switches compared to Keychron's own red and brown switches mean that you don't feel like you're hammering the keys — even if you're a somewhat forceful typist like me.

I know I've mentioned the acoustic experience of this board already in this review, but it really does bear repeating. This keyboard just sounds so damn good to type on. It's like an old 90s Packard-Bell keyboard and a snare drum had a baby. There's no audible click like you'll see with blue switches, though, so typing gently will actually result in a fairly quiet experience — good for office environments where you don't want the loudest keyboard in the building.

The 8K polling rate feature (which requires either a wired or 2.4GHz connection, as Bluetooth doesn't support it) is switched off by default, since some older PCs don't support it. It's set to 1,000Hz as standard, though turning it on in the Keychron Launcher software is very straightforward — you can also use the software to adjust the default keybindings and set up macros, if you're so inclined.

Still, I honestly didn't register much, if any, difference when I turned on the 8K polling. Even in twitchy competitive games like Marathon and Valorant, I didn't feel at any point that swapping over to the 8K polling mode made my inputs feel faster or more responsive.

I should be clear at this point that I am not a 'pro gamer' by any definition of the phrase. I was Diamond-ranked in Overwatch back in the day and have the (dubious) honor of being a Legend 2 veteran in Warframe, so I'd like to think I'm at least above average, but I accept that I'm not really the target audience for a feature like this. If you are a hardcore gamer and you're primarily playing very twitchy, reaction-based games like Valorant or Counter-Strike, then the 8K polling rate may prove beneficial, but the simple fact is that most players aren't going to suddenly find themselves playing better after turning it on.

My last note here will be on the battery life of the Q1 Ultra 8K in wireless mode, which is certainly up to spec. Keychron promises up to 660 hours of use on a single charge, and while I didn't leave the keyboard running for a full 28 days (!) to test that, I will say that it didn't need charging even once after my initial wired testing, and I used it in wireless mode with the RGB lighting on for a full week. As far as wireless keyboards go, the battery life on offer here is undeniably great.

• Performance: 4.5/5

Should I buy the Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K review: Also consider

How I tested the Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K

• Replaced my usual keyboard for one week
• Used for daily work, personal projects, and gaming
• Close to a decade of experience testing PC hardware

As is my usual modus operandi for keyboard reviews, I swapped out my trusty Asus ROG Strix Scope RX in my home desktop setup for the Keychron Q1 Ultra 8K for one week. During that period, I used it for my daily work at TechRadar, as well as personal writing projects and some gaming during my off hours.

I mostly played Marathon and Warframe during my testing period (in addition to a lot of typing), but for variety's sake, I also mixed in some Valorant, Remnant II, and Slay the Spire II – though the keyboard's use was largely relegated to hitting 'E' to end my turn in that last one. I naturally also installed and tested out the free Keychron Launcher software.

I've been a tech journalist for more than eight years, and during that time I've reviewed dozens of keyboards, mice, headsets... you name it, I've probably had my mitts on it at some point. I'm also a long-time PC gamer and self-confessed keyboard freak, meaning I have a keen eye for what works (and what doesn't) when it comes to PC peripherals.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: May 2026

Corsair Vanguard Air 99 Wireless review

The Corsair Vanguard Air 99 Wireless is a premium low-profile gaming keyboard built for those who want one board for gaming and productivity shortcuts, with enough flexibility to handle use across multiple setups. It uses a 99% layout, so you still get a numpad and function row, but the overall footprint is smaller than a regular full-size board.

Add fast polling over both wired and 2.4GHz wireless, OPX low-profile optical switches, per-key RGB, an LCD screen and six Stream Deck-friendly keys, and it’s clear the Vanguard isn’t aimed at users who just want a simple wireless keyboard.

The high price feels purposeful, but it does mean the board won't appeal to everyone. At $260 / £240 / AU$429, it sits well above plenty of great options in our best keyboards guide. The value proposition makes most sense if you’ll actually use the Stream Deck keys, Virtual Stream Deck, Web Hub profiles, LCD and rotary dial, and love RGB, but it’s still a lot to spend if you really just need a slim keyboard for games or productivity.

The physical design and build quality are two of the areas where the Vanguard Air 99 really stands out. The aluminum-topped frame gives the keyboard a more premium feel than many low-profile boards, while the black or white finish keeps the look clean enough for a work desk.

At 26.27mm (~1-inch) high, it’s very slim for a keyboard with a full numpad, and the 99% layout is a sensible middle ground if you need number keys but still want more mouse room than a standard full-size board would leave.

That said, the tighter layout does take some getting used to. A 99% board keeps almost everything, but it compresses the nav cluster and pushes the six Stream Deck keys to the left edge. The layout works well overall, but the Vanguard Air 99 isn’t quite as immediately familiar to type on as the near-full-size spec suggests, and it took me a while to adjust.

The aspect that took longest was avoiding occasional accidental presses of the Stream Deck keys, so you’ll have to bear with it if you’re coming from a conventional full-size keyboard.

The OPX low-profile optical switches make for a very enjoyable typing experience. They have a short 1.5mm actuation point and 2.5mm total travel, so key presses feel quick without bottoming out too fast.

The switches are linear, pre-lubed and not hot-swappable, which lets Corsair set up the feel but does limit future tinkering.

The combination of the gasket mount and internal sound dampening gives the Vanguard Air 99 a more polished feel than many low-profile keyboards. I find that some (admittedly, much cheaper) designs can sound thin or plasticky, but the Vanguard Air 99 Wireless uses its gasket mount and five internal sound-absorbing layers to make each key press feel solid, smooth and very quiet.

The PBT keycaps, which use a tougher, more wear-resistant plastic, also help the premium impression, and the double-shot molding means the legends are made from a separate layer of plastic rather than printed on top. Be aware that some regional layouts may use ABS keycaps, which are made from a smoother, more common plastic that can develop shine more quickly, so buyers should check the exact version.

The appeal to gamers is pretty straightforward. The Vanguard Air 99 Wireless supports 8,000Hz polling over USB and Slipstream v2 2.4GHz wireless, plus FlashTap SOCD (Simultaneous Opposing Cardinal Directions) handling for resolving overlapping directional inputs. For most users, 8K polling is more about headroom than making a clear difference in games, but it’s good to see wireless performance has no compromises.

Switch customization is one area where the Vanguard Air 99 lacks flexibility. Many expensive gaming boards now offer magnetic or analog switches with adjustable actuation and rapid trigger-style features. The Vanguard Air 99’s optical switches are fast and consistent, but actuation isn’t adjustable.

Competitive players chasing that exact level of tuning may be better served by one of the best gaming keyboards with analog switches.

Customization control is split across Corsair Web Hub, the Stream Deck app and iCUE support. I like the Web Hub approach because it lets you adjust key assignments, macros, lighting, polling and profiles in a browser without installing anything. This is especially handy if you want to use the keyboard across multiple machines.

For example, you might have iCUE installed on your gaming rig, but not bother with it if connecting to a work laptop. The Web Hub also makes it easier to configure the keyboard on a machine where you are restricted from installing unapproved apps.

The software side still feels like a work in progress, though. That’s important because the Stream Deck keys, LCD, RGB lighting, rotary dial and onboard profiles are a large part of what buyers are paying for.

While the Stream Deck app is great, the keyboard management software feels like it’s playing catch-up to the hardware. For example, iCUE support wasn’t initially available for the Vanguard Air 99, and it’s easy to hit limitations in both the Web Hub and iCUE at times.

RGB control is a good example. You can select from a range of RGB customizations, with different layers for making certain keys stand out, but there’s no proper per-key color and effect control that lets you truly make it your own. You also can’t build your own effects — something even my cheap RGB Christmas lights allow.

The selectable effects only have three speed options, and the slowest setting was still too fast for my taste. For a keyboard at this price, the lighting control is a lot less granular than I had hoped for.

The six Stream Deck keys are the aspect that had me most excited about the Vanguard Air 99, even though they are just normal keys without an embedded LCD. If you already use Elgato Stream Deck, mapping shortcuts for your favorite apps or repeated productivity actions is very useful.

The limitation is that these keys are still physical buttons with static legends (though you can change the keycaps), not full Stream Deck display keys, so the setup works best for a small number of repeat actions rather than constantly changing layouts.

The included keycap sets are a useful touch too. Corsair includes one set of six Stream Deck icon keycaps and one set of six Mac keycaps, and there’s a Windows / Mac switch key to go with them. The caps were easy enough to swap by hand on my sample, but there’s no keycap puller in the box, which feels like an odd omission when replacement caps are included.

The package also includes the Slipstream Wireless v2 adapter, a female USB-C to female USB-A adapter and a USB-C to USB-A cable. The 2.4GHz receiver magnetically slots into the keyboard next to the buttons and is easy to access, while the little adapter is used with a USB-C cable to help make positioning the receiver more convenient if your desktop is tucked away or the rear USB ports are crowded.

The included USB cable is soft and has a braided fabric shell, but I’d still have preferred a standard USB-C to USB-C cable with a USB-A adapter, which would give more flexibility for port selection.

The 1.9-inch LCD is best considered as a small status and personalization display rather than a major productivity feature. It’s a 1.9-inch IPS full-color display with a 320 x 170 resolution, 350 cd/m² brightness and 30 FPS image support, so the hardware itself is pretty good. It gives the Vanguard Air 99 some extra visual character, it can show images and GIFs, and it’s useful for quick feedback on remaining battery and modes. It can also be configured to show system data like temperature sensor readouts.

Uploading images or animations is an easy way to customize the look, but note that it has to be done over wired USB, and while the adjustment tool lets you center a picture, the fixed zoom steps are fairly large and make fine-tuning harder than it should be. The screen feels like software upgrades could make it more useful in the future.

The battery life is respectable, but I wouldn’t call it exceptional. Corsair quotes up to 55 hours with keyboard lighting off and the LCD at 20% brightness or 29 hours with both keyboard lighting and the LCD at 20%. I tended to like it brighter, so I only managed about 20 hours, which means this is a keyboard you’ll likely keep plugged in most of the time if you use the RGB and screen heavily. Still, being able to go full wireless is very much appreciated.

Overall, the Vanguard Air 99 looks like a good fit for certain buyers. The keyboard is slim, well built and well suited to fast gaming, but also has enough productivity features to feel more flexible than a typical gaming keyboard.

That software maturity is the main thing that complicates my recommendation. The Vanguard Air 99’s price feels more reasonable when you look at the hardware: the low-profile build, Stream Deck keys, LCD, rotary dial, wireless 8K polling and compact numpad layout all support a specific premium desk setup. But because the software isn’t as polished, buyers may be left waiting to get full value from the keyboard.

Corsair Vanguard Air 99 Wireless review: price & release date

• Available for $260 / £240 / AU$429
• Released March 17, 2026
• Available in black and white

The Vanguard Air 99 competes with low-profile wireless models like the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL and Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro, plus analog gaming boards such as the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3.

Corsair’s advantage is the blend of low-profile design, numpad and Stream Deck-adjacent controls. It isn’t a value-first keyboard, but it is easier to understand as a deliberate premium board for people who want low-profile typing, gaming wireless and desk-control features in one setup.

Corsair Vanguard Air 99 Wireless review: specs

Should I buy the Corsair Vanguard Air 99 Wireless?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Corsair Vanguard Air 99 Wireless review: also consider

How I tested the Corsair Vanguard Air 99 Wireless

• Used as my primary keyboard for two weeks
• Tested wired USB, 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth
• Swapped keycaps and tested software controls

I tested the Corsair Vanguard Air 99 Wireless by using it as my main keyboard for two weeks across work, productivity tasks and gaming. I used it on both an Apple MacBook Air and a Windows laptop, switching between wired USB, 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth modes, and I typed this review and other work on it during that period.

I also swapped the included keycaps, checked the magnetic receiver storage, used the Windows / Mac switch and adjusted lighting and profiles in Corsair Web Hub and iCUE. I set up the Stream Deck keys through the Stream Deck app, used the LCD and rotary dial in daily use, and kept the lighting and screen bright enough to compare my real-world battery life with Corsair’s quoted figures.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: May 2026

Keychron V1 Ultra 8K review

The Keychron V1 Ultra 8K is a 75% mechanical keyboard that delivers a surprisingly broad feature set given its price. Available at a price tag of just $115 — it's currently only available in the US — it's crammed full of features like 8,000Hz polling over both wired and 2.4GHz wireless connections, hot-swappable Silk POM switches, a dampened gasket mount construction, and a battery life measured in weeks.

I’ll start with what’s included in the box, because Keychron has thrown in a rather generous selection of bits and bobs. The standard gear is here, like a keycap removal tool, USB Type-A to Type-C adapter and an extension adapter for the wireless receiver. You’ll also find striking red replacement keycaps for the Esc and Enter keys, along with alternate caps to swap between OS-specific buttons like Command and the Windows key.

Build quality is a mixture of impressive and a little questionable, depending on where you’re looking. The PBT keycaps are a highlight with a premium feel and reassuring thickness. There’s very little wobble to speak of and even the biggest keys are well supported by pre-installed screw-in stabilizers.

It’s the outer frame that doesn’t hold up as well under pressure. There’s noticeable movement in the plastic shell, both along the front below the space bar and under any level of twist or strain when picking it up from the sides. I noticed this more when moving it around and fiddling with the keyboard itself rather than gaming or typing on it, but it’s not a great look compared to the best keyboards.

The Keychron V1 Ultra 8K only comes in one color — black with two shades of grey keycaps — and it carries quite an industrial vibe as a result. It’s a 75% layout, with 82 keys including a volume dial, and you’re given the choice of Keychron Silk POM Red, Brown, or Banana switches. I’ve been testing the latter, which sit towards the heavier end of the tactile range with a 57g actuation force. They’re fully hot-swappable too, so you can always switch things up later... if you’ll let me get away with that painful pun.

Hanging out under the keys is one of the niftier RGB lighting implementations I’ve seen in some time, as long as you’re willing to invest the effort in setting it up. You can go deep with dialing in exactly the look you want, with more than 20 effects in both per-key mode or what Keychron calls Mix RGB mode. The latter allows you to define two different zones, each with their own effects. I spent a good half an hour playing with different effects, even as someone who isn’t usually a massive RGB kinda guy.

The only downside is the keycaps are solid with no shine-through lettering, so while there is plenty of punch to the intensity and saturation of the effects, they are a little blocked.

Deeper under the hood, the V1 Ultra 8K runs on ZMK open-source firmware, which is a shift away from the QMK that powered Keychron's previous wireless boards. Realistically, it's not a change I imagine most people will actually notice day to day, but it's the reason Keychron can claim a frankly absurd 660 hours of battery life. I’d like to tell you I had the spare 27 days of continual use to test whether Keychron’s claim is valid, but in my testing I barely noticed the battery percentage drop and it was quick to charge up again when plugged in, so I’ll take the company's word for it. Connectivity covers all the bases with 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.3 with support for up to three paired devices, and wired USB-C.

The headline spec is the 8,000Hz polling rate, which works across both wired and 2.4GHz modes. If we’re all being really honest with ourselves though, nobody outside of the absolute top end of esports champions is likely to notice the difference between 8K and 1K. You’re not suddenly going to get better at Fortnite, I promise. It’s impressive that such a high polling rate is an option on a keyboard of this price, but you’re probably better off running a lower spec anyway and saving any potential extra strain on your CPU.

You can tweak that polling rate, and the rest of the V1 Ultra 8K settings in the Keychron Launcher web app. I’m a big fan of this approach over a downloadable app and I found it to be loaded with options, snappy, and easy to navigate. You are limited to Chrome, Edge, or Opera, and you’ll need to be using the USB-C cable to make changes, but any settings you do tweak are saved to the keyboard itself so will carry across devices and connection modes.

So, what’s the Keychron V1 Ultra 8K like to use day to day? For most tasks, pretty great. Those Banana switches have an early tactile bump and fire off about halfway through their 3.4mm total travel distance. In practice, that makes them feel super responsive and capable of handling a lighter touch than their 57g force suggests on paper. While gaming I never felt like my actions were lagging behind and N-key rollover means simultaneous inputs all register together with no missed keystrokes.

The gasket mount and polycarbonate plate give the V1 Ultra 8K a more cushioned feel, and the multiple layers of foam inside keep each press sounding deep and rounded. It’s a nice, grown-up sounding keyboard.

All those internal layers add up to make this quite a tall keyboard, however, both in terms of its frame thickness and the height of the keycaps themselves. I’m more sensitive to this than others as I daily drive a low-profile keyboard, but the V1 Ultra 8K felt even taller than most I’ve tested. I’d have appreciated a wrist support to counter that cliff of a front edge, and even without the feet extended I felt as though my hands were needing to lean back in normal use. Keychron will sell you a silicone or resin wrist rest, and I’d say it’s well worth considering.

Typing was a bit of a mixed bag. For chatting in Discord, general browsing or productivity, it’s entirely pleasant. For more dedicated writing sessions, I found the sculpted keycaps bundled with that lofty overall height a little harder to adapt to. Each has a noticeable dip that’s useful for keeping your fingers locked in on WASD, but that starts to get in the way when your fingers are flying around typing out a review. It’s workable: I still maintained 113wpm, which is about my normal pace, but accuracy dropped to 92% instead of the 96% I usually hit.

Keychron V1 Ultra 8K review: price & release date

• Available for $114.99
• Released in January 2026
• Not currently available in the UK

At $115, the Keychron V1 Ultra 8K sits in a compelling spot. It’s one of the cheaper wireless mechanical keyboards to offer 8K polling and undercuts major players quite convincingly. There’s a lot on offer for the price here, though it does skimp a little on build quality to meet that budget.

It was released in the US on January 2026. Unfortunately, though, it's not available in the UK as yet, so gamers and keyboard connoisseurs there will find themselves waiting a while to get their fingers on it.

Keychron V1 Ultra 8K review: specs

Should I buy the Keychron V1 Ultra 8K?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Keychron V1 Ultra 8K review: also consider

How I tested the Keychron V1 Ultra 8K

• Used as my primary keyboard for a week
• Connected both wired and wirelessly, on Mac and Windows
• This review was typed entirely on it

I tested the Keychron V1 Ultra 8K by making it my daily driver keyboard across all work, productivity, and gaming for a week. I used it on both an Apple MacBook Air and a Windows desktop PC, jumping between wired and wireless connectivity modes.

I swapped out a few keycaps using the included tool, uninstalled and reinstalled one of the switches just because I could, and played around with the full suite of settings in the Keychron Launcher web app.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: May 2026

Logitech G512 X two-minute review

The Logitech G512 X reminds me of what Citroën tried to do with the C3 Pluriel — a car so busy trying to be everything that it ended up being not quite enough of anything. This is a keyboard that seeks to blur the lines between gaming and enthusiast-grade, which is a tricky line to walk — and one that the G512 X doesn't quite manage.

On one hand, it's trying to be one of the best keyboards money can buy, with capable tactile switches, gasket mounting and strong acoustics, and on the other, it's positioning itself as a top-end TMR gaming deck with potent HE switches with rapid trigger, dual actuation and all the rest of it. For $199.99/£199.99, this feels like a two-for-one deal I can get behind, but only in some respects.

In practice, the G512 X impresses with strong mechanical credentials and fast analog switches that can be swapped in an instant with the bundled pullers to provide the precision and power more competitive gamers will appreciate. I also like the clean software and the pleasant and rather striking black and purple chassis (it can also come in white and mint).

However, there are several limits to its powers that, to me, stop it from being a top contender for one of the best gaming keyboards out there. For instance, the chassis here is predominantly plastic and can flex at the corners, meaning the Keychron K2 HE Concrete Edition is a much stronger bet for build quality, while the fact that the analog hot-swappable powers only extend to 39 of the keyboard's switch sockets just feels like an oversight. The likes of the Cherry Xtrfy MX 8.2 Pro TMR Wireless and Glorious GMMK 3 Pro HE have already addressed this more convincingly with full hot-swap support.

Likewise, the high price tag is hard to ignore, even if you're getting some genuine cleverness here. The likes of the Cherry Xtrfy K5 Pro TMR Compact and Corsair K70 Pro TKL offer as much, or more, gaming grunt for a lower price, and the aforementioned Keychron adds wireless connectivity for an identical price. Nonetheless, it's still more affordable than the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3.

Logitech G512 X review: Price & release date

• Costs: $199.99 / £199.99
• Available May 2 2026
• Towards the top end of the market

The Logitech G512 X is available in two sizes, and therefore two prices, with the 96% option I have here the dearest at $199.99/£199.99. If you wanted the smaller 75% option, you'll be paying $179.99/£169.99. The keyboard is currently available for pre-order, with shipping from May 2 2026.

The price puts it towards the top end of the market for similar Hall effect gaming keyboards, and it's similar in a lot of respects to the Corsair K70 Pro TKL. The Cherry Xtrfy K5 Pro TMR Compact is also a potent wired choice, and is a fair bit cheaper than Logitech's offering, although it lacks some of the versatility of the G512 X.

Other more pro-oriented products that this keyboard is designed to compete with, such as the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL and the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3, cost a bit more, though, arguably due to having extra software trickery or wireless connectivity options.

In the box, Logitech provides the keyboard itself, a USB-C to USB-A cable for wired connectivity, switch and keycap pullers that double as feet and documentation. There is also a wristrest available, although that is a separate purchase.

• Price score: 3.5/5

Logitech G512 X review: Specs

Logitech G512 X review: Design & features

• Stylish black and purple chassis
• Build quality leaves a lot to be desired
• Reasonably intuitive layout

Logitech has opted for a different look to a lot of its other past gaming keyboard efforts with the G512 X, adding a welcome splash of color, such as the purple-accented Esc and arrow keys, alongside the dual dials in the right corner and the color that's sandwiched in between the black of the frame down the sides and around the back. Both sizes of the Logitech G512 X can also come in white with mint accents, and you can swap out the colored keycaps for ones that match the rest of the body for a more uniform look.

There's a certain style here that I'm quite a fan of, alongside the diffused lighting aesthetic across the front.

For a $200 keyboard, the fact that the frame feels like it's mostly plastic isn't a great first impression, especially as rivals incorporate a lot of metal for sturdiness, or even go as far as to make the case out of a material such as resin, or concrete, in the case of Keychron's latest entry.

This has the effect of making the chassis flex under heavy pressure both in the middle and at the corners, giving the G512 X a much cheaper feel that I'm not a fan of, not least from a brand that should (and can) do better. Despite this, there is a decent amount of heft to the frame, with it tipping the scales at 2.2lbs/1kg, which means some thought has gone into it. Just not enough in my book.

The fit and finish elsewhere is quite reasonable, with pleasant PBT keycaps under the finger that have a nice grip for comfortable typing. PBT is a more durable plastic than the swathes of ABS I'm used to seeing on more mainstream keyboards, and is also much less resistant to the horrible keycap shine that plagues ABS-capped boards after a fair amount of use.

Logitech offers the G512 X in two layout varieties, with either a 75% or a 96% configuration available. The former offers the benefit of a TKL layout (also known as Tenkeyless, which means the keyboard doesn't have a numpad) in a slightly squished-up fashion, with an F-row, arrow keys and a single column nav cluster alongside the usual alphanumeric keys.

The 96% layout is the one I have, and it supplements this with a number pad. The placement of keys against other keyboards of this form factor I've tried is different, owing to the two dials in the top right. By default, the dials control backlight level (left) and media volume (right), although they can be remapped in Logitech's G Hub software. Usually, the navigation keys are moved above the number pad, but they're now part of a function layer, with only the Print Screen key above the number pad. Otherwise, this is a method of packing in most of the functionality of a full-size keyboard into a slightly space-saving chassis.

The interface around the back is where things get a little interesting, as you'll find standard features such as a USB-C port for wired connectivity, plus two buttons – one for scanning the keyboard to check for any analog switches installed (this is then reported into software for customization purposes), while the other enables Game Mode. In the middle, there is a cubby hole for the nine Gateron KS-20 analog switches that can be swapped into the keyboard and a shelf for five silicon rings that can be placed around a switch to help denote where a secondary actuation point is (if they're set in the software).

I like the clever use of storage space on the rear of the G512 X, and I think it's a smart feature that other keyboard makers could take notice of. The silicon rings do tend to fall out of the back of the keyboard, though, if you move it around.

On the underside, you'll find some small feet that raise the keyboard up by default to a more comfortable angle, although the included keycap and switch pullers also double as feet for an even taller angle. Getting these into place in between the existing feet is quite finicky, and they don't feel the most secure.

On the topic of software, G Hub handles configuration duties for everything from RGB lighting control to key remapping and dealing with rapid trigger and actuation point options. For rapid trigger and such, you can program inputs on a scale from 0.1mm all the way down to 4mm, giving a lot of configuration. There are also options here to set two actuations per key and deal with SOCD tech, which I'll get into later.

The RGB lighting here is rather bright, and there is a good deal of customization offered in the software to change colors, patterns and the like. My only criticism is that in a lot of cases, the backlighting doesn't extend to the edges of some of the legends.

• Design and features: 3.5/5

Logitech G512 X review: Performance

• Tactile mechanical switches by default…
• …which can be swapped to HE switches for more speed and precision
• Solely wired connectivity, although with 8000Hz polling rate

It's on the front of what's inside the G512 X where things get quite intriguing, as this is one of only a handful of keyboards out there that'll accept both more standard mechanical switches and magnetic or analog switches in one go. The only others that spring to mind are the Glorious GMMK 3 Pro HE and the Cherry Xtrfy MX 8.2 Pro TMR Wireless, although in this respect, I'd argue both of them have a leg up on Logitech.

That's because this 'board only accepts its analog TMR switches on 39 of the hot-swappable sockets, mostly on the left side of the keyboard, as that's where most of the switches pressed for gaming exist – the arrow keys are the only notable exception, according to Logitech. I understand why they've done this, but surely it would've made more sense to offer that precision and power across the entire alphanumeric set, rather than just over half of it.

This keyboard ships first and foremost as a more traditional mechanical choice, with it available either with indeterminate Linear or Tactile switches; my sample shipped with the latter. I feel it is quite important to note that some of the documentation I was provided with for this keyboard calls these switches 'MX Mechanical Switches' when I can find no evidence that these are proper Cherry MX switches. There isn't any branding on them to suggest so, for instance, and the housing doesn't look like the MX Browns I'm so used to, leading me to believe these are some form of clones.

To be fair to Logitech, the clones it has fitted provide a positive actuation with a healthy bump halfway down the travel alongside a smooth travel and a surprisingly light 38g weighting.

Acoustics here are strong, with no case rattle or ping from the stabilisers or internal mechanism, while the G512 X also has internal gaskets to provide a slightly more responsive, 'bouncier' feel under finger. There is a fair amount of key wobble, though.

Hot-swap support for the standard mechanical switches is the usual MX-style three or five-pin switches, and it works the way you'd expect, with no soldering or funny business required. Just note that the bundled switch and keycap pullers Logitech has provided aren't great at doing their job, so you'll want to find a combo puller or separate ones from elsewhere. It took me several attempts before I even got a grip on either the keycap or the switch.

When it comes to the analog switches, Logitech has opted to use Gateron KS-20 Hall effect switches for the nine included on the rear of the keyboard, which I've seen fitted to HE keyboards in the past from the likes of Wooting and even Sony. These feel as I expected, with a smooth keypress afforded by having no physical mechanism inside and all the benefits of speed and precision over what comes by default inside the G512 X.

The key thing here is that these are powered by TMR sensing sockets, rather than the more ubiquitous Hall effect, which is something we're seeing become more common with gaming keyboards in 2026. Without getting too much into the weeds, TMR stands for Tunnel Magneto-Resistance, and is a technology we've mostly seen applied to game controllers rather than keyboards. It's essentially designed to offer a greater degree of precision and general responsiveness over the litany of Hall effect products we see in controllers and keyboards.

It's also meant to be more power-efficient, although as this is a purely wired keyboard, it isn't that important compared to wireless TMR keyboards from other folks.

As much as this is a keyboard you can use for general day-to-day stuff with its full mechanical set, it's more at home when you use the keycap and switch pullers and swap out the mechanical switches for analog ones, which is very easy. For my testing, I elected to swap the WASD keys, Shift and the 1, 2, and 3 number keys for speed in Counter-Strike 2 for movement, crouching and weapon selection.

With those switches swapped out, you can go into Logitech's G Hub and scan the keyboard, which will recognise the new switches as being analog, and you can then configure things such as rapid trigger, dual actuation and more. I didn't set the actuation and reset as high as 0.1mm, as I've often felt that's too sensitive, and instead set it to a more reasonable 0.5mm.

This decision essentially turns these switches into hair triggers. It means inputs required very little effort, which becomes very handy in quick-draw scenarios where you need to bring a weapon out or throw a grenade as quickly as possible.

Using G-Hub also opens up more advanced features, such as dual actuation, where you can go through a switch's travel with two inputs mapped. This is where the little o-rings that Logitech provides come in, as they're specifically designed to notify you when that second input should be recognised.

There are limits to the G512 X's powers, though, as its switches don't support more progressive and controller-like analogue inputs, as you'll get on rivals from the likes of Wooting and Keychron at this price. This is handy if you wanted to play racing titles such as Forza Horizon 5 with your keyboard.

Logitech provides its own flavour of SOCD tech, known as 'key priority', which is controllable in G Hub, and can be mapped to seemingly any pair of switches. It allows you to activate one key while holding down the other for especially quick actions. In this instance, it works based on the most recent one pressed; for instance, if mapped to the A and D keys (the typical default in a lot of rival choices), it can allow for unnaturally quick side-to-side movement for a tactic known as 'jiggle strafing' in Counter-Strike 2.

It's very clever, although not something you'll probably use too much in online games, given Valve wields the ban hammer for anyone who uses it in online Counter-Strike 2 games.

Connectivity with the G512 X is strictly wired, with no Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless choices available. Over this wired connection, you also get an 8000Hz polling rate for more frequent reporting of inputs than 'standard' gaming keyboards, which can lead to a more responsive feel. This isn't necessarily something that mere mortals can feel, although for the pros, where every millisecond counts, it's a useful addition.

• Performance: 4/5

Should I buy the Logitech G512 X?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Also consider

How I tested the Logitech G512 X

• Tested for around a week
• Used for gaming and productivity across Windows and macOS
• A decade of experience as a journalist and mechanical keyboard hobbyist

I tested the G512 X for around a week, using it as my main keyboard for work and play during this time with both Windows and macOS.

I played various games, including Counter-Strike 2 and Forza Horizon 5, to best gauge its TMR switches. I also made sure to use Logitech's G Hub software to test every facet of the keyboard.

I've been a tech journalist for the best part of a decade, and have reviewed plenty of keyboards in that time from brands big and small. I'm also a mechanical keyboard enthusiast, so I have a keen eye for peripherals and have been involved with the hobby before it hit the mainstream.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: April 2026

Razer Huntsman Signature Edition: Two-minute review

Razer has been all about anniversary products in 2026, with special edition variants of some of its most beloved devices with different physical touches, limited quantities and price tags you could wince at – the Razer Huntsman Signature Edition is the latest entry.

Underneath, it's a Huntsman V3 Pro TKL, which is one of the best gaming keyboards you can purchase with the green brand's second-gen analog optical switches, an 8000Hz polling rate and more goodies that have kept it competitive among a sea of newer, Hall effect and TMR-powered keyboards. It's been out for a couple of years by this point, though.

The Huntsman Signature Edition isn't going to do much to move the needle in Razer's favor, though, and arrives as more of a vanity project than a serious release - it is limited to 1337 pieces (get it, that's leet). After all, with the $500 price tag this keyboard comes with, you could nab both a high-power gaming keyboard and then sink the rest of the funds into a top enthusiast-grade product with more customisation than you could shake a stick at.

The fact is, though, that I like what's here. This Huntsman is built like a tank, and I'm a fan of all the little extras it comes with, such as its mirrored surfaces, the large leather-bound box, and the decent array of accessories on show. Gaming performance is also strong with its optical switches, 8000Hz polling rate, and more besides that keep inputs fast and responsive, plus there are extras such as analog capabilities for controller-like inputs and extensive software customisation to boot, so users can tinker until their hearts are content.

I just wince at that price tag, especially with competition such as the Corsair K70 Pro TKL and SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 offering similar features for half the cost.

Razer Huntsman Signature Edition: Price & release date

• $499.99/£499.99/AU$799.99
• Available only from Razer directly
• Top-end of the market

The Razer Huntsman Signature Edition is only available to purchase from Razer's website, and costs $499.99/£499.99/AU$799.99, putting it right at the top end of the gaming keyboard market. It's also limited to 1337 pieces, so you'll need to have been quick on the button to snag one when it went on sale on February 22, 2026.

For the price, you get the keyboard itself alongside accessories including a keycap puller, a special-edition Razer keycap, swappable macOS command keycaps, a braided USB-C/USB-A cable and a leather sound-dampening mat. That all comes in a hefty leather-bound box with the Razer logo.

You can get premium gaming keyboards with a similar feature set for much less than the asking price, including the Corsair K70 Pro TKL and SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3. The keyboard this is based on, the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL, is also much more affordable, and provides an identical core experience to the Huntsman Signature Edition.

• Price score: 2/5

Razer Huntsman Signature Edition: Design and features

• Sturdy machined aluminum frame
• Lovely attention to detail
• Feature-rich software

Razer has certainly attempted to make the Huntsman Signature Edition look and feel like a $500/£500 keyboard. It carries this premium and understated look that we've seen brands move towards more generally, and it looks fantastic, with a black machined aluminum chassis with touches of gray on the volume roller and macro buttons in the top-right corner.

One of the key upgrades over the standard Huntsman V3 Pro TKL that turns this into a 'Signature Edition' is the decision to CNC-mill the entire chassis in 6063 aluminum, giving it this wonderful heft and thickness. It certainly means this keyboard isn't going to go anywhere when it's put down on your desk.

The rear side and underside of the Huntsman Signature Edition have been PVD surface-treated and hand-polished to achieve a mirror-like finish, giving the keyboard an extra extravagant feel. Granted, you won't be able to see it while you use it, but it shows a keen eye for detail on Razer's side.

I'm also a fan of the fact that this keyboard opts for a closed housing over the more common open, skeletal-feeling frames that are a lot more common on gaming-grade keyboards. It gives this product more of an enthusiast's feel, and also helps prevent ingress of dust or unwanted crud between the switches.

The lovely fit and finish of the Huntsman Signature Edition also extends to its textured PBT keycaps that feel great under finger. Razer also bundles a special Razer accent keycap in the box alongside ones for the bottom row for macOS functions, and a keycap puller so you can change them out if you wish. The lack of a wristrest for more optimal ergonomics is a bit of a shame, though, as some rivals come with one, including Razer's own Huntsman V3 Pro TKL.

The TKL (or tenkeyless) layout on offer is convenient and doesn't sacrifice much on overall functionality for the gains in desk space, only chopping off the number pad. You otherwise get a nav cluster with arrow keys, a feature-rich function row, and the usual alphanumeric set. Unlike other, more drastic space-saving layouts, it's easy to use.

In spite of not having an OLED screen, unlike rivals from other manufacturers, the Huntsman Signature Edition has some functions baked into its function row, including backlighting brightness, macro recording, and global adjustment of the actuation and reset points of the optical analog keyswitches. The tactile dial in the top right corner controls system volume by default.

Software control is handled by Razer Synapse, as with the brand's other peripherals, and the experience is familiar. It's a versatile piece of kit, offering means of controlling the actuation and reset points of switches individually, plus dealing with things such as analog, SOCD and rapid trigger functionality for the switches, and configuring the sharp RGB lighting

If you don't want to deal with sorting actuation and reset points on a per-key basis, then you can also select from a range of presets based on game genre, such as FPS or Racing, to optimise the keyboard's settings in one fell swoop.

• Design and features score: 4/5

Razer Huntsman Signature Edition: Specs

Razer Huntsman Signature Edition: Performance

• Very potent optical switches
• Rapid trigger and analog settings for lots of configuration
• Solely wired connectivity, although with 8000Hz polling rate

The internals of the Huntsman Signature Edition haven't changed much from the V3 Pro TKL model, meaning it comes with the same switches – that's the brand's own Analog Optical Switches Gen-2 – which actuate with light gates for immense precision and bring handy extras such as rapid trigger for instant inputs and analog powers for controller-like progressive keypresses.

In a general sense, these optical switches are snappy under finger with a linear keypress, while a 40g weighting keeps them light enough for serious gaming. The switches aren't lubricated, unlike their Hall effect brethren, but feel smooth enough by default that I enjoyed using them for both gaming and general work. In addition, thanks to a stack of sound-dampening material inside the keyboard, the acoustics are excellent with no case rattle or ping.

Sometimes non-standard switches such as these can tend to feel quite hollow and lifeless under finger, but I didn't necessarily feel that way about them during general use for work, writing articles and such for hours on end.

The lack of traditional mechanisms also lends them to being immensely configurable, with the actuation and reset point able to be set anywhere along the travel from 0.1mm to 4mm. This allows for brisk inputs where you'd only need to essentially breathe on the switch before it actuates, before it instantly resets.

This is rapid trigger in action, and it can be very useful in quick draw scenarios in FPS titles. I use Counter-Strike 2 as proving grounds for any gaming keyboard I test, and with the Huntsman Signature Edition, I chose to bind the WASD and weapon selection keys as rapid triggers, which meant movement takes much less effort than a traditional keyboard, and things felt especially responsive.

However, this is only one side of these switches, as they are also analog switches, too – and are a newer version of the ones you'll find in the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog to boot. This means they can offer controller-like inputs with a more progressive scale, which is handy because you can now use a keyboard in titles where you may normally use a controller.

Razer makes it easy to map inputs in its software, and using the default 'Racing' preset in the Synapse software, it maps the WASD keys to left analog stick movement and right and left triggers. I tested it in both BeamNG Drive and in Forza Horizon 5 in races and freeroam, and it felt responsive.

There is a little bit of a learning curve in mastering the power of those analog inputs if you’re used to the more standard on/off nature of mechanical keyswitches, but it is seriously clever, and one of the most underrated features on these switches.

Razer provides its own flavour of SOCD tech with the Huntsman Signature Edition, known here as Snap Tap. This allows you to activate one key while holding down the other for especially quick actions. In this instance, it works based on the most recent one pressed; for instance, if mapped to the A and D keys, it can allow for unnaturally quick side-to-side movement. It's very clever, although not something you'll probably use too much in online games, given Valve wields the ban hammer for anyone who uses it in online Counter-Strike 2 games.

The software controls also open up the power of dual actuation, where you can set two inputs to different parts of a switch's travel, such as pushing it down slightly to walk, before going all the way down to run, or crouch. It's a handy addition for FPS games, although is as far as these switches go. Rival devices offer even more versatility, such as four inputs per key, and other derivatives of the SOCD (Snap Tap) tech, if you wanted even more functionality.

Connectivity with the Huntsman Signature Edition is strictly wired, with no Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless choices available. Over this wired connection, you also get an 8000Hz polling rate for more frequent reporting of inputs than more 'standard' gaming keyboards, which can lead to more responsive inputs. This isn't necessarily something that mere mortals can feel, although for the pros, where every millisecond counts, it's a useful addition.

• Performance score: 4/5

Should I buy the Razer Huntsman Signature Edition?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Razer Huntsman Signature Edition: Also consider

How I tested the Razer Huntsman Signature Edition

• Tested for around two weeks
• Used for gaming and productivity across Windows and macOS
• A decade of experience as a journalist and mechanical keyboard hobbyist

I tested the Huntsman Signature Edition for around two weeks, using it as my main keyboard for work and play during this time with both Windows and macOS.

I played various games, including Counter-Strike 2 and Forza Horizon 5, to best gauge its optical switches for speed, precision, and the benefit of its analog powers. I also made sure to use Razer's Synapse software to test every facet of the keyboard.

I've been a journalist for the best part of a decade, and have reviewed plenty of keyboards in that time from brands big and small. I'm also a mechanical keyboard enthusiast, so I have a keen eye for peripherals, and have been involved with the hobby before it hit the mainstream.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: March 2026

• HP has revealed a keyboard that's a full-on PC at CES 2026
• The HP EliteBoard G1a is built around a powerful AMD Ryzen CPU
• This means it's a Copilot+ PC and should be pretty capable with Windows 11, though it's still nicely slim

Typically, an all-in-one PC is a computer built into a monitor, but HP is doing things a bit differently with a twist on the formula at CES 2026, having unveiled a mini PC that's packed into a keyboard.

As The Verge spotted, this is the HP EliteBoard G1a and, perhaps inevitably, it's branded as an 'AI PC' which, the PC maker boasts, provides "next-generation local AI power in a keyboard-sized form factor that moves at the speed of modern work".

In short, this is a Copilot+ PC shoehorned into a compact keyboard that's 12mm thick, weighing 750 grams, so it's pretty trim given what the device contains.

Obviously you should temper expectations with the spec of this device, but it does have an AMD Ryzen AI 300 series chip inside which boasts more than the requisite 40 TOPS (it has 50) to qualify as a Copilot+ PC (meaning you get access to exclusive AI features in Windows 11).

More specifically on the CPU front, you get options from a baseline Ryzen AI 5 350 up to a Ryzen AI 7 370 Pro, backed with up to 64GB of system RAM (DDR5) and up to 2TB of storage.

You also get built-in speakers and dual mics, so all you need is a monitor to hook up the keyboard with – or two, as the EliteBoard G1a is capable of driving dual 4K displays – plus a Bluetooth mouse for a full PC setup. (Or you could just run with a touchscreen monitor on its own, of course).

There's Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, and this keyboard PC can optionally be configured with a fingerprint sensor for biometric logins, and a 35Wh battery providing a claimed 3.5 hours of juice (which is user replaceable).

HP tells us that the EliteBoard G1a should be on sale in March 2026.

Analysis: Amiga nostalgia

A keyboard-based PC is not actually a first, of course. In fact, you could argue that these were around in the 1980s, and they were called Commodore Amigas (or you could take your retro computing pick, really – although the rival Atari ST was even bulkier). The key (no pun intended) difference is that unlike the Amiga 500 I owned as a teenager, HP's EliteBoard isn't a great chunky thing – it sounds enticingly compact, all in all.

Even so, there are slimline takes on this formula that already exist, like the Raspberry Pi 500 (which, of course, takes the latter part of its name from the aforementioned classic Amiga). This is 23mm thick, so not as slim as HP's creation here, and neither does it pack the same power in its CPU (the Pi has a modest Arm chip).

However, while we don't yet have a price, the EliteBoard is obviously not going to be nearly as cheap as the Pi 500, offering a much more powerful computing (Copilot+) experience. There's the rub, of course, because with the spiraling cost of RAM and storage, HP is launching this new keyboard in very trying market conditions (to say the least – especially as the EliteBoard packs DDR5 RAM).

Consumers who fancy a slice of the PC keyboard action will doubtless find the cost difficult to stomach, though the primary target market of business users may get more palatable volume pricing. Still, I'd still expect the current memory headwinds to make life tricky for HP in terms of selling this machine down the line.

• Logitech has launched a new solar-powered keyboard
• The Logitech Signature Slim Solar+ K980 retails at $99.99 / AU$179.95
• It's charged either by sunlight or artificial light and comes with a swappable battery

Logitech has released a new solar-powered keyboard which is charged purely by light - either sunlight, or the artificial variety - and can last for a surprising amount of time when juiced up.

The Logitech Signature Slim Solar+ K980 retails at $99.99 in the US and AU$179.95 in Australia, as The Verge reports, and it doesn't offer a USB port for a charging alternative. You can either power it up in the sun or by using indoor lighting (if it's at least 200 lux), but once it's fully charged, the K980 will last for a rather incredible four months before it needs to see the light again.

The battery is claimed to be good for (up to) 10 years, and even if it does fail, this device has a power pack that can be swapped out for a new one.

Logitech spokesperson Melvin Dilanchian made it clear to The Verge that the battery sits in a plastic case to make it "safely user-replaceable" with a spare (that's supplied by iFixit).

The K980 is a full-size wireless keyboard with a charging panel that runs along the top, and a full set of function keys underneath, plus a full number pad to the right.

You also get media keys, and keys for video chat (mic mute, camera off), and there's a dedicated AI key which will function as a Copilot or Gemini summon in Windows or ChromeOS, respectively - or you can customize it (and other keys) to do something else.

You can pair the K980 with up to three different devices via Bluetooth and switch between them all with the press of a key.

Analysis: solar resurgence is good to see

The K980 is a smart idea for several reasons. It offers plenty of longevity when charged, and being able to swap out the battery for a new one when it's spent is clearly a nice, eco-friendly idea. There are also plenty of options in terms of keys and customization, which is good to see.

The design of the keyboard looks a bit basic, and there are no folding feet (to adjust the angle and tilt of the peripheral) – but still, it looks pretty nifty overall. And there are certainly some people out there who've missed Logitech's solar-powered keyboards – there hasn't been one made for a long time (over a decade) – who have been clamoring for the company to make another model. So, it's good to see the manufacturer has duly obliged.

Lenovo has also recently launched its Self-Charging Bluetooth keyboard at the same price point in the US, and Logitech's effort looks a bit more pleasing and streamlined to my eye. Furthermore, the Lenovo effort only lasts for a month on a full charge, which makes the Logitech rival keyboard's (claimed) capacity all the more impressive. However, you do get a USB-C port for charging the Lenovo device (in the absence of any strong enough light).

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Keyboard switches are small components built into each key on your keyboard that register the input when you press a button. There are countless different types of switches to choose from when you’re looking to buy one of the best gaming keyboards, which might feel a little bit intimidating, so you might start thinking… can I just stick to regular old membrane switches, which are found in any garden-variety keyboard, for gaming?

You’ll have to consider a range of factors when deciding what switches you may want for your go-to gaming keyboard, and there are benefits as well as downsides to bear in mind when opting for a membrane option over mechanical or optical switches (which are more commonly found in gaming keyboards). Membrane switches can be cheaper and are a perfectly viable option for gaming for most players - but that doesn't mean you shouldn't consider upgrading.

Membrane keys feel a bit different from mechanical switches, with a 'squishier' feeling to them. In my experience, some people prefer this, while others hate it, so there's nothing wrong with going to a physical computer hardware store and tapping at some keys to get a feel for what works best for you. But if you're still on the fence, here's a more detailed breakdown to help you make a decision.

Is the price right?

One of the main reasons you may want to opt for membrane switches for gaming over more mainstream mechanical or optical models is the price difference. You can pick up a Razer Ornata V3 X, which has membrane switches, for as little as $39.99 / £33.99 / AU$71.95 - whereas the Razer Blackwidow V4, a similar style of keyboard but with mechanical switches instead of membrane, starts at $139.99 / £129.99 / AU$234.95.

Most standard office keyboards also feature membrane switches, meaning you don’t even have to pay a premium for ‘gaming’ products; if you do decide on a membrane keyboard because you're on a tight budget, you could instead pick up a cheap office keyboard for around $10 / £10 / AU$20, so long as you’re happy with a minimalistic design and basic performance.

More or less precise?

One major downside of using membrane switches for gaming over some other switch options is the lack of a distinct actuation point on each key, meaning that there isn’t a consistent, precise depth where the key registers an input when you press it. This can make it difficult to execute your inputs with precision compared to the exact actuation of a mechanical keyboard, although the difference in input here will be down to milliseconds.

This means that realistically, unless you’re a professional or high-level player, the difference in precision you get from a mechanical keyboard when compared to membrane switches won't make a significant difference to you. For those who are gaming casually and not particularly fussed about competitive play (or you mostly play single-player games that don't demand fast-paced button presses), a membrane keyboard is a completely viable option that won't disadvantage you.

One notable upside of membrane key switches is that they're significantly quieter than most mechanical switches. Some mechanical switches (usually color-coded blue) are 'clicky', meaning that they produce an audible click upon reaching their actuation point, but even 'linear' and 'tactile' switches (red and brown, respectively) are noisier than membrane keys.

Will they last you a lifetime?

Another downside when opting for membrane switches can be the lifespan of the switches themselves. Membrane switches are not made to survive millions of keypresses like mechanical switches or optical switches are, meaning that your keys may stop working or face other input registration issues much sooner. The average mechanical keyboard switch is typically rated for 50 to 100 million presses, while membrane switches are usually rated in the 5 to 10 million range.

As membrane switches begin to break down, they can also become less responsive, which can pose a major issue when gaming - so while they may still be fine for typing, they won’t be ideal for gaming as the switches age.

However, as noted earlier, membrane keyboards are much cheaper, so replacing them is much more affordable - but of course, that's still inconvenient, and there's a reasonable argument to be made that buying a longer-lasting mechanical keyboard is the more environmentally conscious move, since it can help reduce e-waste.

So… are membrane switches good for gaming?

Overall, membrane switches are a perfectly viable option for gaming, particularly for the casual gamer or those who aren’t playing at a high or competitive level. While using mechanical switches can potentially give you an advantage, this will be so minimal for most players that it likely won’t impact your games, particularly when playing slower-paced games.

However, the main downside of membrane switches is that their lifespan is significantly lower than mechanical switches. This means that you may need to replace your keyboard more frequently, so it's worth considering how often you're going to use your keyboard.

If you plan to use your keyboard infrequently, and you're only going to be playing casual games, then a membrane keyboard is a perfectly good choice. But if you want to use your PC every day - and perhaps you plan to work on it regularly as well as play games - then it's worth ponying up a little extra cash to get yourself a mechanical keyboard.

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Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1: one-minute review

The Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1 is a wired mechanical keyboard with the simple aim of delivering great gaming performance.

Its sleek appearance is achieved thanks to the low profile keycaps with their prominent indentations, and despite being made from ABS, they look and feel every bit as premium as their PBT counterparts.

What’s more, the very bright RGB lighting looks particularly striking on the white colorway. The metal chassis, however, looks less impressive, coming across a little cheap.

Fortunately, it feels more solid than it appears – as does the whole board for that matter, equaling what the best gaming keyboards have to offer. It’s reasonably heavy as a result, but not onerously so.

The detachable USB cable also feels premium. It’s braided which makes it more flexible, and it’s quite long, too, which makes it easier to route on various setups.

The software that attends the MX 3.1 is quite limited compared to those of other gaming keyboards, containing only a handful of shortcuts rebind options and a basic macro facility – and not much else besides. This will no doubt disappoint gamers after deep customization options.

To game with, the MX2A switches in the MX 3.1 are heavier than you might expect. They feel quite clicky with minimal dampening, which can make them feel a little harsh when hammering away at them.

This aspect isn’t helped by the short travel of the keys. Thankfully, those indentations on the keycaps are comfortable and secure, which makes them ideal for both gaming and typing.

I also appreciated the rounded back edge of the space bar, which softens the impact when you hit it. This is especially useful given the shallow angle of the layout: instead of fold-out feet, the MX 3.1 comes with two sets of screw-in pins with different heights. No matter which set I installed, the layout always seemed too flat for my liking. Combined with the thick body, this means the MX 3.1 can get uncomfortable after long sessions.

It’s priced slightly below what you might expect from a wired mechanical gaming keyboard, but in today’s market there are plenty of great value models offering more features and stronger performance for less.

Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1 review: price and availability

• $129 (about £100 / AU$200)
• Available now in three colorways
• Slight below-average pricing

The MX 3.1 costs $129 (about £100 / AU$200) and is available now in black, white, and pink colorways, although the latter is currently only available in Asia.

This is a slightly-below average price for a full-size wired mechanical keyboard, but there are plenty of wired and even wireless alternatives that perform just as well, if not better, for less money.

Take the Roccat Magma, for instance, which is our pick as the best gaming keyboard for those on a budget. It may feature membrane rather than mechanical switches and exhibit less-than-stellar build quality, but its performance is sharp and accurate and has a miniscule price tag in comparison to the MX 3.1.

Even the wireless MonsGeek Fun60 Ultra is cheaper than the MX 3.1, albeit not by as much. This board supports both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connections, and features TMR analog switches that allow for far greater customization. I also found it great to both game and type on.

Value: 3 / 5

Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1 review: specs

Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1 review: design and features

• Solid and sturdy construction
• No folding feet
• Limited software

The MX 3.1 has a simple yet sleek design. The speckled metal chassis that frames the entire board features angular contours and sporadic holes, all of which add some interest. However, this frame ultimately looks a little cheap and harks back to a bygone era of gaudy gaming peripherals.

The very bright and vibrant RGB lighting, on the other hand, is striking yet tasteful. It certainly attracts plenty of attention, especially on the white model, which it complements rather well.

Build quality is very good as well, with the whole unit feeling quite sturdy and heavy, more so than perhaps it looks. That metal chassis is solid as you could wish for, and so too are the plastics, which means the MX 3.1 should stand the test of time.

The keycaps look elegant thanks to their low profile and deep indentations. Despite being made from ABS, they feel every bit as premium as PBT varieties. They feel super smoother under the finger tips, too.

Their overall size is quite small compared to those on other mechanical keyboards, which makes the whole of the MX 3.1 feel more compact. It’s a shame, however, that there’s no volume dial, with F-row shortcuts relied on for this function in its place.

Instead of foldable feet, the MX 3.1 comes with two sets of pins of different lengths that screw into the back end of the board to adjust the angle. While this method arguably offers a more secure footing, it’s a less sophisticated and more time-consuming solution.

What’s more, even the longer pins aren’t tall enough to create an angle I was entirely comfortable with. This issue is exacerbated by the thick chassis – and lack of wrist support – which meant my wrists had to bend upwards more than I would’ve liked.

The MX 3.1 comes with a long, braided USB cable, which makes it amenable to various setups and routing options. The central placement of the USB-C port also helps with these aspects.

The companion software for the MX 3.1, the Cherry Utility Software, is quite sparse compared to rival tools. Every key can be remapped to another, but there are only a handful of system and media shortcuts available to assign, while the macro creator is very basic. Those looking for more performance based tweaks will be disappointed.

Design & features: 3.5 / 5

Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1 review: performance

• Switches heavier than expected
• Good for typing
• Considerate space bar design

The MX2A Silent Red linear switches are quite clicky with little dampening, which makes them feel harsh when hit hard. They’re also quite heavy to press, which is most noticeable when using the WASD keys for in-game movement. This resistance is somewhat surprising, given the short travel of the keys themselves.

This short travel makes the MX 3.1 great for typing on, though, as do the aforementioned keycap indentations, since they provide both security and feedback when touch typing. Their low profile also helps to compensate for the whole unit’s lack of tilt, allowing my fingers to stay relatively flat while dancing around the keys, which I find more comfortable.

Another aspect of the MX 3.1 I appreciated is the soft curve on the back edge of the space bar, as this cushions impacts with the thumb. It’s a shame this curve is confined to the center rather than extending along the entire edge, but I still appreciated its inclusion.

Performance: 3.5 / 5

Should I buy the Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1 review: also consider

How I tested the Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1

• Tested for a week
• Used for gaming and working
• Extensive gaming keyboard experience

I tested the MX 3.1 for about a week, during which time I used it for gaming and working.

I played Counter-strike 2, which is a great test for keyboards given the demands it places on fast and its requirement of precise inputs. I also played games that make greater use of the entire layout, such as Abiotic Factor.

I’ve been PC gaming for over a decade, and during that time I’ve experienced a vast array of gaming keyboards. I’ve also tested a wide range of them, as well as other Cherry XTRFY products.

• First reviewed: August 2025
• Read more about how we test

When picking up a new keyboard, which switch you opt for can be a very important decision. Years ago, your options were typically limited to membrane or mechanical, but as more types are developed, both magnetic and optical switches are now becoming more mainstream.

Each keyboard switch type comes with different positives and negatives, making it very hard to find the best keyboard for your needs..

We’ve compared a range of factors between the four main switch types you’ll find when picking up a new keyboard. Whether you want a durable and quiet option or something cheap but still satisfying to type on, there are options to suit all needs.

How to choose which keyboard switch is right for you: Membrane

If you’re looking for the cheapest option on the market, and you're not particularly fussed about gaming performance or typing feel, then membrane is the switch type for you - but it's worth noting that they may need replacing more often due to the lifespan of the switches being much shorter.

While membrane switches are the slowest in terms of reaction speed, this is a marginal difference that will only be felt by the most competitive players when gaming.

Membrane keyboards are great for office environments thanks to how quiet they are when compared the a majority of mechanical options. There aren’t too many types of membrane switches on the market, with two main categories: tactile and non-tactile, with the former making for a more satisfying typing experience thanks to the more clicky feedback as you press each key.

How to choose which keyboard switch is right for you: Mechanical

There is a large range of mechanical keyboard switches on the market, making them the most versatile and likely the option that makes the most sense for many people.

If you’re looking for something quiet, you can pick up quiet mechanical switches, if you want something loud and clicky, you can pick up loud and clicky mechanical switches. Due to the variety, there are budget-friendly options and more expensive choices to pick from, but none will be as cheap as membrane options.

Mechanical switches are marginally faster than membrane, making them better for gamers or others who care about how quickly their inputs are registered, and you'll find a lot of mechanical keyboards in our best gaming keyboards buying guide.

The switches themselves last approximately 10 times longer than membrane switches. However, it's worth noting that other parts of your keyboard will likely break down prior to the switches anyway, meaning your keyboard will probably need to be replaced at some point (though hopefully not for a long, long time).

How to choose which keyboard switch is right for you: Optical

Optical switches can be found in some of the most expensive keyboards. They’re a relatively new technology, and there are limited options which makes them very pricey. However, they are the fastest available switches right now.

For those who are using their keyboards to game competitively, having optical switches may give you that advantage, but for those who are just gaming casually, the difference won’t be noticeable.

Optical switches may also take some getting used to for typing. They are highly reactive, as they rely on a light being broken rather than any contact being made inside the switch, meaning if you often mispress buttons, you could find yourself making more typos. However, optical keyboards can often be silent, perfect if you’re in an office space or working around other people very often.

How to choose which keyboard switch is right for you: Magnetic

Magnetic switches may not be quite the fastest switch, by an extremely small margin, but they do offer features for gamers which aren’t available from any other switch, including 'rapid trigger' where keys reset as soon as you start lifting your finger for faster repeated presses.

You can also utilise an adjustable actuation point which can change the function of the key the more you push down.

Because of these features, you’ll find that magnetic keyboards have a much higher asking price. They’ve also been on the market for a significantly shorter amount of time, meaning there are fewer options available.

However, magnetic switches are designed to last longer than mechanical switches, which means the higher price point may be easier to justify.

How to choose which keyboard switch is right for you: closing thoughts

Overall, which keyboard switch you want to pick up will be based on what your needs are and how much you’re willing to spend.

If you’re looking for a super-cheap option then a membrane keyboard will likely suffice but if you want top of the line gaming performance then magnetic switches may be better for you. Be sure to weigh up a variety of factors before committing to a keyboard, as whatever you choose, you'll likely be using it a lot, so picking the best keyboard for your needs is essential.

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Analog keyboards are more popular than ever, providing gamers with greater tactility and nuance. They allow for modulated presses and customizable actuation points, and come with exclusive features – such as the all-important Rapid Trigger – that make them ideal for elite-level play.

There are plenty of analog boards to choose from, but the best, in my view, is the SteelSeries Apex Pro. We’ve included the 2023 version in our best gaming keyboard guide, and the updated Gen 3 model is no less impressive. So let's dive into what makes the Apex Pro such a fantastic analog keyboard.

Best in class

Let’s start with the build quality: you won’t find many other keyboards built to such exacting standards. Every inch of the Apex Pro looks and feels premium and durable.

The chassis is solid yet not too heavy, making it relatively easy to get into position. As you would expect, it also comes equipped with double-shot PBT keycaps – the gold standard material. These feel great in use, thanks to their subtle but noticeable texture that makes them tactile.

The TKL models and bigger even feature a small screen in the top-right corner. This can be customized to display all manner of content, from pictures and GIFs to vital in-game information for popular titles, such as Counter-Strike 2 and League of Legends. It also has a menu where you can alter various settings, including the global actuation point and Rapid Trigger toggle.

It might not be the most eye-catching gaming keyboard, but beneath that restrained exterior lurks an incredibly high-performing machine. In my SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 review, I noted how great those analog switches feel: they’re satisfyingly damped, yet still provide plenty of snap, which makes the Apex Pro ideal for gaming and typing.

What’s more, the keys provide enough feedback and travel to make hitting certain actuation points easier than on other analog keyboards I’ve experienced. The indentations of the keycaps help to get a secure and comfortable position, while the bottom row is easy to use when adopting the WASD position – which isn’t something I can say about every gaming keyboard I’ve tried.

SteelSeries GG software can be used to customize the Apex Pro. You’ll find a multitude of rebinding options, although the selection isn’t quite as vast as you’ll find in other apps, such as Razer’s Synapse. Still, the media and system shortcuts that are available should suffice for most users.

Naturally, there are various actuation adjustments and features, too. You can set the activation point between 0.1mm and 4mm for each key individually, and you can also choose whether a key activates on its down or upstroke. Along with Rapid Trigger, there’s a dual-actuation mode that lets you bind two inputs to a single key.

GG is quick to run and has an easy layout to navigate, although I wish it provided more visual feedback for actuation, as other analog keyboard software provides.

The wireless variant of the Apex Pro has excellent connectivity, providing both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth methods for greater versatility, and both performed with aplomb on the devices I tested. As I noted in my SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless Gen 3 review, battery life is also quite good, living up to its 40-hour claim according to my experience.

About the only drawback I can find with the Apex Pro, aside from its eye-watering price tag, is the wrist rest: it lacks padding, and I didn’t find it wide enough to accommodate my whole wrist – and I don’t have big hands. What’s more, it has an annoying tendency to flip upwards when exerting too much pressure in the wrong place.

Yes, the Apex Pro costs a lot of money, but you’re getting one of the best-made and best-performing gaming keyboards on the market. Also, there are TKL and Mini variants that help to bring the cost down. The latter in particular does a sterling job of compensating for its lack of keys with some useful second-layer shortcuts.

There are wired models that are cheaper too, although the price difference isn’t that great, which is why I would recommend the wireless models (although the Mini is currently wired-only). But no matter which variant you go with, the Apex Pro offers a superlative analog experience.

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Wobkey Rainy 75 Pro: one-minute review

The Wobkey Rainy 75 Pro is a wireless mechanical keyboard with numerous connectivity options for great flexibility. It has a rather restrained aesthetic, although the vibrant RGB lighting and various colorways help make it stand out. It lacks the pomp of many gaming keyboards, and it’s all the better for it in my view.

In terms of build quality, the Rainy 75 Pro is dense and very heavy, while the aluminum casing makes it near impossible to dent or damage. The double-shot PBT keycaps also feel premium, with their smooth texture and subtle indentations.

The board is also quite thick, especially at the back, and there are no adjustable feet. Thankfully, the stock angle allows for a good typing position, although I still would’ve welcomed some form of wrist support, since I did find the Rainy 75 Pro uncomfortable after long periods.

Customizations are available courtesy of the VIA web app. Here you’ll find a macro creator and RGB lighting adjustments, with plenty of effects to choose from. There are also myriad shortcuts available for remapping, rivaling many of the best keyboard options around, although the interface doesn’t do a great job of presenting them in the cleanest manner.

There are other issues with this web app: it requires you to download JSON files to work, while profiles have to be saved as files on your PC, both of which feel outdated and clunky. What’s more, there aren’t any performance-related tweaks, and sometimes it would lose connection to the keyboard altogether.

Thankfully, in action, the Rainy 75 Pro provides a mostly enjoyable experience. The linear Cocoa switches in my unit were snappy and responsive, with a light actuation and a very satisfying feel, which made for fast typing. However, beware that they are quite loud.

Connectivity is mostly great, and switching between Bluetooth and 2.4.GHz devices is easy. However, I did experience momentary lagging in one particular instance when connected via the latter method to my PC, which is obviously disappointing, but thankfully only occurred once.

Despite how solid and pleasurable it is to use, the Rainy 75 Pro is still an expensive keyboard and it faces some stiff competition, such as the Razer Pro Type Ultra and the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra, the latter of which is cheaper but performs equally well. If you’re looking for the sturdiest board around with effortless typing, the Rainy 75 Pro is hard to beat on these fronts. But all things considered, it's hard to justify its expense in a market full of great value alternatives.

Wobkey Rainy 75 Pro review: price and availability

• $139 / £159 / AU$239
• Available now in multiple variants
• High-end of the market

The Rainy 75 Pro costs $139 / £159 / AU$239 and is available in multiple colorways and switch types. Wired and non-RGB versions are also available with lower prices. It comes with a keycap puller, USB cable, 2.4GHz USB dongle, and three spare switches.

This places it at the premium end of the space, although when you consider its high build quality, mechanical switches and multiple connectivity modes, it makes a little more sense. It’s close to the same price as the Razer Pro Type Ultra, although that board is full-size, making it a better choice for productivity purposes.

However, the Rainy 75 Pro is more expensive than the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra. That board has analog switches, which allow for various actuation adjustments to be made, an aspect shared by some of the best gaming keyboard options. It also features multiple wireless modes, although it has a 60% layout, which means it lacks quite a few useful keys present on the Rainy 75 Pro.

Value: 3 / 5

Wobkey Rainy 75 Pro review: specs

Wobkey Rainy 75 Pro review: design and features

• Exceptionally heavy
• Well made
• Not the most convenient software

The Wobkey Rainy 75 Pro has a somewhat muted appearance, especially in the white colorway I had on my review unit. It looks modern enough, and the lack of gamer touches is something I welcome, while the RGB lighting does enough to add vibrancy.

It’s also one of the heaviest keyboards I’ve ever used. It feels extremely dense and sturdy as a result, and if you’re prone to gamer rage, be careful of venting your frustrations out on this one. The aluminum casing feels very premium and hard wearing too.

The Rainy 75 Pro is also quite thick, although mercifully it has a fairly steep tilt angle, so the front end is lower to the ground than the back. This makes getting a comfortable position easier, although I found that my wrists still had to bend noticeably to reach the keys.

The double-shot PBT keycaps have a smooth texture and feel high quality, as you would expect. They also have minimal indentation, but it’s enough to secure your finger tips in place.

There are some useful default shortcuts on the Rainy 75 Pro, including the ability to hot-switch between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz devices using the Fn and Tab keys. However, it’s a shame that none of the keys have their Fn shortcuts labelled on them.

However, what’s more inconvenient is the switch for activating the wireless capability, since it’s located underneath the Caps Lock key, meaning you have to remove it to access it – a baffling design choice and one I’ve seen before on the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra.

Thankfully, it’s rarely needed as it can be left in the on position, even when using the board with a wired connection. The only time I needed to switch it to the off position was when installing a firmware update.

The Rainy 75 Pro makes use of the VIA web app for its customization abilities. This provides the usual tinkering options, with macro creation, RGB settings, and plenty of remapping options.

However, the web app isn’t the most user-friendly interface, requiring you to download and then upload JSON files manually to get working. You also have to save your custom settings as files to your computer, which is also inconvenient and outdated.

I encountered other usability issues, too. There were occasions where the key remapping function wouldn't work, and sometimes the board lost connection to the web app, requiring me to refresh the page to remedy.

The layout of this web app also leaves a lot to be desired, as the scattergun approach to listing all the remaps isn’t the best presented, making it hard at times to find the shortcuts you need.

Design & features: 3.5 / 5

Wobkey Rainy 75 Pro review: performance

• Light and snappy
• Great for typing
• Can get uncomfortable

The performance of the Rainy 75 Pro is excellent, whether you’re gaming or typing. The linear Cocoa switches in my unit had a very light and snappy actuation, with plenty of rebound and a relatively short travel, all of which made for quick taps and fast typing. Their lubed yet clicky feel also provided plenty of feedback, resulting in a tactile feel to match the best mechanical keyboards.

However, typing is quite loud, and while the Rainy 75 Pro is comfortable to use for the most part, that aforementioned thickness and the wrist bend required to access the keys did cause me some discomfort after a while. This is yet another keyboard where I would’ve appreciated a wrist pad.

Connectivity is seamless in the main, and I found switching between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz quick and easy. Battery life also seems reasonable, if not exceptional, dropping to 80% after several days of varied use between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz.

However, I did experience some serious lag on one occasion when playing a game, causing a severe delay to my inputs. My mouse inputs were unaffected, so I don’t believe it was an issue with the game.

This is obviously concerning, but I should stress this only happened once during my several days with the Rainy 75 Pro, and what’s more, it was fleeting. Still, it’s worth mentioning all the same.

Performance: 4 / 5

Should I buy the Wobkey Rainy 75 Pro?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Wobkey Rainy 75 Pro review: also consider

How I tested the Wobkey Rainy 75 Pro

• Tested for several days
• Used for gaming and typing
• Plentiful keyboard experience

I tested the Rainy 75 Pro for several days, during which time I used it for gaming and typing. I used all of its connectivity modes on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems. I played Counter-Strike 2, a good test for keyboards since it requires fast and accurate inputs.

I have been PC gaming for over a decade and have plenty of experience with keyboards of all kinds. I have also reviewed a large number of them, with different connectivity methods, switch types, layouts, and price points.

• First reviewed: May 2025
• Read more about how we test

Razer Joro: one-minute review

The Razer Joro is a wireless gaming keyboard designed for easy portability thanks to its small form factor and light weight. Its looks are understated, with the all-black finish helping it to remain inconspicuous – although the RGB lighting is vibrant enough to make it stand out a little more.

It’s also built to a high standard that's typical of many peripherals made by Razer. The aluminum face plate is perhaps the highlight on this front, while its smooth planes lend a sense of elegance and class.

True to its portable nature, the Joro is very light and small across all of its dimensions. It’s slightly raised at the back, which naturally tilts the keys but only by a small degree. What’s more, this angle is set in stone, since there are no adjustable feet, meaning it might not suit everyone’s ergonomic preferences.

Razer Synapse can be used to customize the Joro, with the usual settings and features available for tweaking that you'd expect from the best gaming keyboards. There are plenty of remapping options, and there’s also a Snap Tap feature for those with more serious performance concerns.

However, the performance of the Joro itself is something of a let down. The keys don’t feel particularly great, as they are slow to rebound, as well as lacking dampening and feedback. The layout can also feel a little cramped when typing, although I was glad of the large keys.

The Joro can only connect wirelessly via Bluetooth; there’s no 2.4GHz dongle here, which is a shame. However, connections are easy to establish and switch between, helped by the practical shortcut keys for hot-switching.

The battery life isn’t particularly impressive, especially for a keyboard designed for portability. After a few days it dipped to 4%, although this was with the backlighting on constantly, which Razer does state will drain the battery much faster.

The Joro would be expensive even for a full-size board, but for a compact one with merely adequate performance and lacking multiple wireless connections, it's ultimately overpriced compared to the competition.

Razer Joro review: price and availability

• $139.99 / £129.99 / AU$249.95
• Available now in black only
• Expensive for what you get

The Joro costs $139.99 / £129.99 / AU$249.95 and is available now in one color: black. It comes with a braided USB cable.

This is an expensive gaming keyboard, dearer than some larger models with more features and better performance, such as the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra, which has analog switches and provides plenty of adjustability. The board itself is quite heavy, so it’s not exactly portable, but it does show just how much keyboard you can get for a cheaper price than the Joro.

If you want a more premium experience in a similarly small package to the Joro, the Apex Pro Mini is a great alternative. It has an even more upmarket design, and boasts incredible performance thanks to its analog keys, which also offer a wealth of customization options. All of this makes it a strong contender for the best keyboard of its kind.

Value: 2.5 / 5

Razer Joro review: specs

Razer Joro review: design and features

• Well-made
• Small form factor
• Lacks adjustable feet

The Joro has a functional form that eschews many of the ostentatious stylings of your typical gaming keyboard, opting for a more mature and functional approach. It’s all the better for it in my view, as it cuts quite a smart and elegant figure.

As you would expect from a keyboard designed for portability, it’s small across all its dimensions and light in weight. However, it still feels solid and well-made, helped in part by the aluminum top plate, falling in line with Razer’s high build-quality standards.

This extends to the keycaps, which feel soft and premium to the touch. Despite its small size, there are a surprising number of keys included as well, such as arrow keys, navigation keys, and an F row. What’s more, there are some handy Fn shortcuts, all labelled on the keys themselves, as well as three Bluetooth hot-switches on keys F1-F3 that are very convenient.

The sloping chassis provides a minimal tilt angle, and since there are no folding feet, this can’t be adjusted according to preference, which is a shame and limits its ergonomics, at least for some gamers.

Packaged with the Joro is a braided USB cable that again feels premium. It’s quite short, which makes sense for a portable keyboard as you’ll likely be close to whatever device you’re gaming on, but desktop users might struggle to use it with their setup. What’s more, it’s USB-C-to-C, with no USB-A adapter included, which also limits its usage.

The keyboard can be customized using Razer Synapse, which features all the usual gaming peripheral customizations, including RGB tweaks and macro creation. There are also plenty of remapping options, with copious amounts of media and system shortcuts to assign. There aren’t too many performance based tweaks, although there is a Snap Tap feature, which lets you give priority to one of a pair of keys (of your choosing) when both are pressed at the same time.

Design & features: 4 / 5

Razer Joro review: performance

• Adequate gaming performance
• Better for typing
• Disappointing battery life

Despite its small and portable nature, the Joro still prioritizes gaming performance, with properties such as N-Key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting testifying to that fact.

However, in action I found the keys a little too slow for fast WASD movements, lacking the snappiness I usually prefer. Also, this position can feel a little cramped: although the keys seem generously spaced horizontally, they feel compromised vertically, which can result in discomfort after long sessions.

I found typing with the Joro better, with the aforementioned spacing helping with accuracy and ease of use. I also preferred their low profile, emulating laptop keys.

However, the keys lack dampening, which makes them feel a little harsh when hammering away at them. They certainly don’t provide as much feedback or satisfaction as the best mechanical keyboards in this department.

What’s more, the small layout did give me some issues when using the Joro for productivity. For instance, the right Shift key is very small, so I often hit the keys above when reaching for it. The enter key is similarly truncated, which also took some getting used to. I was at least glad to see the arrow keys are full-sized, though.

After long sessions, I lamented the lack of adjustable feet as well, since the near-flat layout created a somewhat uncomfortable angle for my hands to reach down to.

The Bluetooth connectivity works well, and I didn’t experience any lagging issues or stuttering. Switching between multiple devices is quick and easy too, thanks to the shortcut keys.

After several days of use, and with the backlighting on, the battery dropped to from full to 4%, which isn’t a great performance, and is an especial shame for a keyboard purpose built for portability. Thankfully, the wired connection lets you use and charge the Joro at the same time.

Performance: 3.5 / 5

Should I buy the Razer Joro?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Razer Joro review: also consider

How I tested the Razer Joro

• Tested for several days
• Used for gaming, working, and browsing
• Plentiful gaming keyboard experience

I tested the Joro for several days, during which time I used it for gaming, working, and general browsing.

I played games such as Counter-Strike 2 and Atomfall, the former of which is good for testing accuracy and responsiveness, while the latter uses a wider selection of keys, which helps to assess the ease of navigation around the board.

I’ve been PC gaming for over a decade, during which time I’ve experienced a number of keyboards. I’ve also reviewed plenty of them, ranging in their size, feature-sets, and price points.

• First reviewed: June 2025
• Read more about how we test

Analog keyboards are usually the preserve of the well heeled, demanding copious amounts of money for the privilege, with even so-called budget offerings commanding a premium price tag in absolute terms.

Now, though, there are two new kids on the block aiming to shake up the market and prove that superior analog performance can be had for a relatively modest outlay.

Both the Gamakay TK75HE V2 and the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra are compact units, promising the kind of premium experience you would expect of the best gaming keyboards, but without costing the earth. But which is the superior choice? Here’s my verdict on the board I prefer.

Gamakay TK75HE V2 vs MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra review: specs

Gamakay TK75HE V2 vs MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra review: price and availability

As mentioned, the main attraction of both the TK75HE V2 and FUN60 Ultra is their very competitive pricing; no other analog keyboards offer so much for so little. The TK75HE V2 costs $109.99 / £85 / AU$176 while the FUN60 Ultra costs $89.99 / £75.59 / AU$142.54. Both are available now in white and black colorways.

Both also come with detachable USB cables and both are hot-swappable. However, both lack wrist support, which is something many top-tier gaming keyboards provide.

In terms of raw price, then, the FUN60 Ultra has the edge. But being the cheapest isn’t always the same as offering the best value. After all, the TK75HE V2 has a larger layout, so you would expect this fact alone would factor into its increased expense.

This is true to an extent, but it turns out that actually, the FUN60 Ultra is the better value of the two. For a start, it has wireless connectivity, and not just 2.4GHz: it also supports Bluetooth. Meanwhile, the TK75HE V2 is wired only. What’s more, the FUN60 Ultra features TMR rather than Hall effect switches, which are considered superior in terms of precision – but more on that later.

Gamakay TK75HE V2 vs MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra review: design and features

Both keyboards have a great design, with both adopting sleek and understated appearances, although the RGB lighting adds plenty of vibrancy to each unit.

The ergonomics of both boards is also commendable. I found them quite comfortable to use despite their lack of wrist support – although I still would’ve preferred some in both cases for longer sessions.

As previously mentioned, both keyboards are compact, although naturally the FUN60 Ultra is smaller thanks to its 60% layout. However, the FUN60 Ultra is quite a bit heavier than the TK75HE V2, which may be an asset or a drawback depending on your preferences.

However, the TK75HE V2 has a larger 75% layout, which is better for those who also plan on doing some productivity as well as gaming. Meanwhile, the lack of arrow keys on the FUN60 Ultra was something I really missed, even when gaming; and not being able to navigate pages or the cursor is something I personally lament.

What’s more, this larger format also means the TK75HE V2 gets a volume wheel, which is well notched and smooth to operate, whereas the FUN60 Ultra misses out on one altogether.

Both keyboards feature PBT keycaps, which feel every bit as premium as you would expect, although unfortunately neither are labelled with their respective Fn shortcuts, which means referring to each’s manual.

Perhaps the biggest design mishap comes from the FUN60 Ultra. The toggle for switching between wired, Windows, and Mac modes is located underneath the caps lock key, which means you have to remove it every time you want to switch. This is a baffling design choice and one that is every bit as inconvenient as you might imagine.

When it comes to software, both keyboards have all the usual customizations expected of modern gaming keyboards. Both have various remapping options, and both feature macro creators and RGB tweaks.

Since both have analog switches, naturally there are plenty of actuation adjustments available, too. However, both suffer from some usability issues that make them harder to navigate, which include unclear or absent explanations, rendering problems, and various impracticalities that make them less efficient than they should be.

Ultimately, though, both tools are stable and effective enough, and offer a surprising number of features and functions considering each board’s budget price tag.

Gamakay TK75HE V2 vs MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra review: performance

As with their designs, both the TK75HE V2 and the FUN60 Ultra are closely matched in terms of performance as well. To game with, the analog switches in both are responsive and precise, while offering a pleasing amount of resistance – vital in analog switches since it makes hitting specific actuation points easier.

Those on the FUN60 Ultra have a shorter travel, but are still relatively easy to control. But the main difference between the two, at least on paper, is the fact that the FUN60 Ultra uses TMR sensors in its switches, whereas the TK75HE V2 uses the more common Hall effect kind.

Ostensibly, TMR is superior as it’s more precise, while also consuming less power. In reality, however, I failed to notice much difference in either regard. However, this isn’t to say the switches of the FUN60 Ultra are bad. On the contrary, perform excellently, and I marginally prefer them to those in the TK75HE V2 – but I don’t believe this was due to their TMR technology.

They have a snappier and more tactile feel than those of the TK75HE V2, which puts me in mind of the best mechanical keyboard in this regard. The TK75HE V2, on the other hand, has heavier switches with greater dampening, as well as a longer travel which may well provide more control for some users.

Both are also great for typing, although in this regard I slightly prefer the TK75HE V2, which, coupled with its aforementioned larger layout, makes it more amenable for productivity purposes.

Gamakay TK75HE V2 vs MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra review: verdict

Choosing a winner between these two isn’t an easy task. Both demonstrate that analog keyboards needn’t be prohibitively expensive, yet can still offer a performance that’s not far behind the best in class. Their design is also exemplary, with surprising levels of build quality and premium appeal in both.

In this closely run race, ultimately I have to side with the FUN60 Ultra, thanks to its marginally superior feel when it comes to playing games. I would’ve preferred a larger layout for productivity purposes, and in that regard I would err towards the TK75HE V2 if I was doing more work than play. But from a gaming-oriented perspective, the FUN60 Ultra just about takes this one.

You might also like

• The best gaming keyboard in 2025: top mechanical, wireless, mini, and more
• I haven’t seen an analog keyboard as cheap as the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra – but its performance surprised me even more after testing it
• The best keyboard in 2025: our picks for typing and gaming

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3: one-minute review

The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is a compact analog keyboard that promises incredibly responsive performance courtesy of its analog switches. Its looks don’t exactly reflect its gaming prowess, but it’s smart and sleek enough to adorn any setup. The black colorway is a little austere, but this is alleviated somewhat by the vibrant RGB backlighting.

Once you get your hands on it, though, you start to realize this is a premium slice of engineering. It’s reasonably light considering how solid it feels, and the double-shot PBT keycaps have a more textured finish than usual, which feels great under the fingertips. Even the included detachable USB cable is made to a high standard.

As you would expect from any of the best gaming keyboards, numerous customization options are available via the SteelSeries GG software – or more specifically, the Engine section within this app. It hurts usability somewhat that Engine opens in a separate window to GG, but this is a minor gripe.

Alongside the typical RGB tweaks and macro creation features, there are a healthy selection of rebinding options, with plenty of media and system shortcuts available, with various adjustable parameters for binding behavior.

Naturally there are various alterations for actuation, with points settable between 0.1mm and 4mm, which is a generous range of travel. You can also toggle rapid trigger and protection modes, while various SOCD settings (called rapid tap here) and dual binding features are available in addition.

This makes Engine a versatile tool and one that’s easy to use, thanks to its clear layout and useful explanations. The visualizer for key actuation, though, doesn’t respond in real time, which is a drawback.

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 excels when it comes to performance. Presses are very tactile and rebound fast, imbuing it with a pleasingly snappy feel, which is great for both gaming and typing.

Hitting certain actuation points is easy too, thanks to the satisfying resistance to the keys which impart just enough feedback without disrupting its light touch.

It’s also comfortable to use, thanks to the indentations of the keycaps, which make it a very tactile board to use while still allowing for easy gliding. The bottom row is very accessible too, especially the space bar, with its low profile making for consistent hits with the tip of your thumb, rather than the edge.

What’s more, the tilt angle, especially when used with the very stable two-stage feet, gave me a comfortable position for typing as well as gaming – although for very long sessions, I would still benefit from using a wrist rest.

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is certainly an expensive keyboard, especially when you consider its small 60% layout and lack of wireless connectivity. However, there’s no denying this is premium hardware, and it performs as well as you could hope an analog board would.

There are a few much cheaper alternatives out there that come quite close to rivaling its performance, but the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is hard to beat if you want the absolute best analog performance.

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 review: price and availability

• $179.99 / £174.99 (about AU$282)
• Available now in black only
• Very expensive

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 costs $179.99 / £174.99 (about AU$282) and is available now in black only. It comes with a detachable USB-A-to-C cable and a keycap puller. It’s one of the more expensive analog keyboards around – especially when you consider its compact 60% layout and wired-only connectivity.

If you’re looking for a much cheaper alternative, the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra is admirably close to the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 in terms of performance, yet also features multiple wireless connectivity modes. What’s more, it uses TMR rather than the Hall effect sensors of the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3, which are considered more accurate, although in truth I couldn’t discern a difference. MonsGeek’s software provides a few more features than Engine, but it suffers from a few usability issues.

Another viable option for budget hunters is the Gamakay TK75HE V2. This is similarly cheap for an analog keyboard, but again comes close to rivaling the performance of more expensive models, including the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3. What’s more, it has a larger 75% layout, which might be more useful for those looking for some productivity prowess as well. However, like the FUN60 Ultra, its software isn’t the best from a usability perspective.

Value: 3 / 5

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 review: specs

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 review: design and features

• Muted looks
• Solid but light construction
• Useful customization software

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 doesn’t push the boat out aesthetically. It adopts a rather functional design that’s inoffensive but still sleek enough to work in any environment. The RGB backlighting also helps to offset the somewhat gloomy black finish.

It’s very well made, and the build quality is certainly level with the best keyboards around. It’s quite light for a board that feels this solid and durable, and the double-shot PBT keycaps are an especial highlight, with more texture than others, but feel great under the fingertips. What’s more, their indentations were a perfect fit for my fingers, which improved their tactility and security when hammering away.

The tilt of the layout ensures a comfortable typing position, which is further aided by the two stage feet, which are incredibly stable and offer meaningful differences in angle. This made the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 comfortable for me despite its lack of wrist support; although for longer sessions, I would still prefer to use a rest with the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3.

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 doesn't have an Fn key; instead, you get SteelSeries’ Meta key, which functions in much the same way. There are numerous useful shortcuts available, including those for adjusting actuation points, rapid trigger and other analog functions.

What’s more, these shortcuts are labelled on the keys themselves, which is very helpful, especially on a compact board such as this, lacking as it does arrow keys, a dedicated F row, and the like.

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 can be further customized using SteelSeries GG – or more specifically, the Engine app within GG. It’s a little inconvenient that the latter opens in a separate window to the former, but this is a small complaint.

You’ll find the usual customizations on offer in Engine, with a generous selection of rebinding options available, including plenty of media and system shortcuts. Five configuration slots are available, and there are even preset configurations for certain games, including one for Counter-Strike 2 created by esports brand FaZe Clan.

Being an analog board, there are plenty of actuation adjustments as well. The actuation point can be set between 0.1 and 4mm, and there’s a rapid trigger toggle with its own accompanying slider to adjust sensitivity within the same range.

A protection mode is also available, which reduces the sensitivity of adjacent keys to prevent mispresses. An SOCD feature called rapid tap is present as well, with different key priority behaviors to choose from when two are pressed simultaneously: you can choose which key always has priority, let whichever is pressed last take precedence, or make neither register. There’s also a dual binding mode, although it’s a little annoying that there’s a separate window for setting up dual actuation first, since both rely on each other.

Overall, however, Engine is laid out clearly and features useful explanations for its various features and settings. However, the visualizer for key actuation is severely lacking, as it doesn’t illustrate presses in real time, which I would’ve appreciated so I could see exactly how my tweaks manifest themselves in practice.

Design & features: 5 / 5

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 review: performance

• Excellent springy keys
• Responsive and precise analog switches
• Great for gaming and typing

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is an excellent performer on pretty much every front. The keys are very light and springy, yet still offer enough dampening and weight lower down in their travel, which helps to provide feedback.

Actuation points are also easy to hit thanks to the tactile switches and relatively long key travel. The space bar is also a highlight thanks to its very satisfying response, and its low profile makes it very easy to hit flush with your thumb tip rather than the edge. In fact, the whole of the bottom row is easy to use, thanks to the slightly concave layout and keycap indentations.

When typing, these indentations are especially useful, offering plenty of security while still allowing for easy gliding around the board. Also, the amount of Meta shortcuts available to access functions reserved for larger layouts makes the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 more viable for mild productivity purposes.

Performance: 5 / 5

Should I buy the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 review: also consider

How I tested the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3

• Tested for a few days
• Used for gaming and productivity
• Over a decade of PC gaming experience

I tested the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 for a few days, during which time I used it for gaming and working, on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems.

I played Counter-Strike 2, a great game for testing peripherals, given it requires fast and precise inputs. It’s especially useful when playing with analog keyboards, since the need for controlled micro-movements provides the perfect testing ground for the rapid trigger functionality.

I’ve been PC gaming for over a decade, and during that time I have experienced a great deal of keyboards. I’ve also reviewed a number of them, including other analog and SteelSeries models.

• First reviewed: May 2025
• Read more about how we test

MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra: one-minute review

The MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra is a compact wireless gaming keyboard with TMR switches, which claim to have greater precision than other analog varieties. It certainly makes a good first impression, with its sleek yet minimal looks, which are accentuated in the white colorway, and makes the RGB appear even more vibrant.

The build quality is also excellent. This is quite a heavy board for the size, which may be a positive or a negative depending on your preferences. But the overall construction is hard to fault.

Thankfully, the FUN60 Ultra isn’t too thick, which makes it more comfortable to use – although, as with most keyboards I’ve tried, some wrist support still would’ve been welcomed for extended sessions.

The PBT keycaps are similarly premium, and feel just as satisfying as you could wish for from any of the best gaming keyboards around, thanks to their smooth texture that offers just enough grip.

However, perhaps the worst aspect of the FUN60 Ultra’s design is the switch for toggling between Windows, Mac, and wired modes. It’s located underneath the Caps Lock, which means removing this keycap every time you want to change modes. What’s more, this switch isn’t labelled and has a different orientation to the manual illustrations, all of which makes knowing which position to select harder than it should be.

The FUN60 Ultra can be customized using the MonsGeek Driver, which offers all the usual gaming keyboard adjustments, alongside plenty of analog-related tweaks. It’s very versatile in this regard, but there are a few issues with it, such as the cumbersome actuation adjustment process, and the uninformative visualizer that accompanies it.

When it comes to performance, however, I found little wrong with the FUN60 Ultra. The keys are snappy and very satisfying to use, with plenty of bounce but enough dampening for enhanced tactility, which is a boon for typing as well as gaming.

Connecting the FUN60 Ultra via the 2.4GHz dongle and Bluetooth proved easy enough, with no discernible dips in performance over wired play. Switching between wireless and wired modes, though, was more hassle than it should have been.

Battery life seems quite good, with the RGB indicator staying green after a couple of days of varied use. Unfortunately, the software doesn’t provide a percentage, so I wasn’t able to get a precise read on how much remained.

When you consider its relatively low price, the FUN60 Ultra represents great value for those after a high-end analog keyboard experience, as it punches far above its class in terms of performance. It’s slightly cheaper than the Gamakay TK75HE V2, which is one of its closest rivals, although this has a slightly larger layout and is wired only.

For a more luxurious alternative, the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 is one of the best analog keyboards around, but is considerably more expensive than the FUN60 Ultra, and doesn’t outstrip its performance by as much as the price difference might lead you to believe. So if you’re looking to get into the analog gaming keyboard world, the FUN60 Ultra is a great place to start.

MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra review: price and availability

• $89.99 / £75.59 / AU$142.54
• Available now in black and white
• Very well priced

The FUN60 Ultra costs $89.99 / £75.59 / AU$142.54 and is available now in white and black finishes. It comes with a keycap puller, a switch puller, a 2.4GHz USB-A dongle, and a USB-A-to-C cable. You can also configure it with PBT or PBT-SP keycaps. Wired and Hall effect variants are available as well, with cheaper price tags.

This makes the FUN60 Ultra one of the cheapest analog keyboards you can buy, and has the potential to be one of the best cheap gaming keyboards around. Other budget-friendly examples include the Gamakay TK75HE, which is slightly more expensive and is wired only but has a larger 75% layout. It performs similarly to the FUN60 Ultra, although the keys don’t feel quite as bouncy and therefore satisfying in my view.

If you want something more premium, the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 is one of the best analog keyboards I’ve experienced, offering very responsive and accurate presses. This also has a larger layout, but is considerably more expensive than the FUN60 Ultra, and the difference in performance isn’t as great as you might expect. However, the FUN60 Ultra is probably the easier board to live with, and the software, while not featuring quite as many tweaks, is still better to use.

Value: 5 / 5

MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra review: specs

MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra review: design and features

• Great build quality
• Bizarre selector switch placement
• Software isn’t the best engineered

The FUN60 Ultra has a neat and minimalist design, with a few design quirks that hint at its intended audience, such as the (rather pointless) side hook and diagonally cut corners. It looks sleek, and in its white finish, quite vibrant, which is emphasized further by the RGB backlighting.

The overall build quality is excellent, with the chassis feeling reassuringly solid, although it’s quite heavy despite its compact size. There isn’t much tilt angle, and the lack of feet means you won’t be able to adjust this.

Thankfully, though, the body isn’t too thick, so I found it comfortable to use, even without wrist support – although for longer sessions I would benefit from using a rest, and I suspect others would too.

The keycaps feel very premium, as you would expect from their PBT construction. It’s a shame, though, that they’re not labelled with their Fn shortcuts, so you’ll have to keep the manual close by.

One very annoying aspect of the FUN60 Ultra is the fact that the switch for toggling between Windows, Mac, and wired connectivity is located under the Caps Lock, which means you have to remove this keycap every time you want to switch between them.

Why MonsGeek chose this location is beyond me. What’s more, the switch isn’t labelled, and runs vertically rather than horizontally as pictured in the manual, so there’s no way of knowing which side is Windows and which is Mac (for your information, down is Windows, up is Mac).

The FUN60 Ultra can be customized using the MonsGeek Driver. Here you’ll find the typical gaming keyboard features, including a macro creator, a section for altering the RGB backlighting, and key remapping.

The latter offers a reasonable selection of media and system shortcuts, although these aren’t as copious as some gaming keyboards provide. You can bind mouse movements to keys, though, which isn’t a function that’s always present in customization software.

As you’d expect given its analog switches, there are also plenty of actuation adjustments available. You can set the actuation and reset points independently, with a range between 0.1mm and 3.4mm, and there are various modes and features you can use too.

These include a non-stop rapid trigger, continuous trigger and snap tap modes, as well as the ability to bind up to four inputs to a single key, depending on its actuation point and direction of travel. There’s also a rapid trigger stabilizer setting, which prevents unintended inputs when setting very short actuation points.

This makes it a versatile piece of software, with more actuation tweaks than some other software provides. However, the tool isn’t the easiest to use, and I experienced a number of issues with it.

The window can’t be resized, and there are relatively long loading times after making certain changes. I also experienced an issue where the drop-down menus wouldn’t work, requiring a full restart of my PC to rectify – although admittedly, this might’ve been an issue with my particular system rather than with the software itself.

What’s more, while there’s a visualizer to simulate key actuation in real time, this can lag at times, and the color-coded bar representing presses and releases fails to change with the actuation points you set, so its usefulness is somewhat limited. More frustration comes in the form of having to hit a confirm button every time you make these tweaks – and doing so when multiple keys are selected deselects them all (bar one), which only makes the process more cumbersome.

Design & features: 3.5 / 5

MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra review: performance

• Bouncy keys
• Short yet controlled travel
• Great for typing and gaming

The overall performance of the FUN60 Ultra is very good. The TMR magnetic switches I had in my review unit promise a lot, claiming to be even more accurate than Hall effect ones.

In practice, I can’t say I noticed a huge improvement in this regard, but that’s certainly not to disparage them. They are very snappy and tactile, with just enough dampening to make them very satisfying to hammer away on. In terms of feel, they come close to giving some of the best mechanical keyboards a run for their money. And despite the short travel of the keys, there’s enough resistance to make for controlled presses.

The typing performance is also excellent, largely thanks to the fast rebound of the keys. And while it has a clicky sound, it’s not as loud as some other analog keyboards. I would label the FUN60 Ultra as a great keyboard for productivity, if it wasn’t for the compromised layout, which doesn’t even include arrow keys or a dedicated F row.

Connectivity is mostly great, with no dropouts of noticeable lag when using wireless modes. Switching between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz modes on the fly using the relevant Fn shortcuts also proved responsive enough.

However, switching between wireless and wired modes isn’t the easiest, due to the aforementioned location of the selector switch under the Caps Lock. Worse still was the fact that on occasion, the FUN60 Ultra wouldn’t connect to my wired device even with the selector in the right position, requiring me to remove the 2.4GHz dongle from my other device before it would, which only adds to the inconvenience of switching between devices.

Battery life on the FUN60 Ultra seems quite good. After using it for a couple of days, the backlight indicator remained green, which means it at least remained above 90%. However, I can’t be more accurate than this, since there’s no percentage readout in the software.

Performance: 4.5 / 5

Should I buy the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra review: also consider

How I tested the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra

• Tested for a few days
• Used for gaming and typing
• Plentiful PC gaming experience

I tested the FUN60 Ultra for a few days, during which time I used it for gaming and typing. I also made use of its various connectivity modes, and used it on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 machines.

I played Counter-Strike 2, which is a great test for peripherals given its need for fast and accurate inputs. It’s also ideal for putting analog switches through their paces, with counter-strafing and other player movements revealing the effectiveness of rapid trigger modes.

I’ve been PC gaming for over a decade, and I’ve experienced plenty of keyboards in that time. I’ve also reviewed a number of them, ranging in manufacturer, switch type, and price.

• First reviewed: May 2025
• Read more about how we test

Gamakay TK75HE V2: two-minute review

The Gamakay TK75HE V2 is a wired keyboard with Hall effect analog switches that provide snappy and precise inputs, and feature multiple actuation adjustments to tailor key response to your exact preferences.

It sports a minimal aesthetic, which, combined with its compact form, makes it conducive to use in any setting. This aspect is somewhat hampered, however, by the short USB cable, which might fail to reach your PC depending on your setup.

Still, the overall build quality of the TK75HE V2 is impressive, on a level-pegging with some of the best gaming keyboards. The plastic chassis is light yet reassuringly solid, and, although it’s thick at the rear, this tapers off towards the front. The PBT keycaps feel as premium as you could wish for, too.

The two-stage folding feet provide plenty of tilt for getting an ergonomic typing position, although I still found the TK75HE V2 uncomfortable to type with for extended periods, owing to the lack of wrist support needed to offset its elevated height.

A screen is integrated in the bottom right corner of the TK75HE V2, although this is very limited in scope, with actuation adjustments, for instance, missing from its menu. For settings such as these, you’ll need to use the Gamakay Driver.

This PC app allows you make all the usual keyboard customizations, with various rebind options available, alongside macro creation and RGB adjustments. Tweaks for the analog switches are plentiful and accompanied by a handy visualizer to see key response in real time.

However, this visualizer lacks some useful feedback indicators, and has a tendency to lag significantly when making multiple inputs rapidly. What’s more, the app window can’t be resized, and a few explanations lack clarity, while others were cut off from the GUI, which was frustrating.

Thankfully, the tool is usable enough, and the analog adjustments it can make provide a meaningful difference to performance. To game with, the TK75HE V2 is certainly responsive, although I can’t say its 8K polling rate makes much difference in this regard, relative to lower-polling keyboards.

Key presses with the linear Mercury switches installed on my TK75HE V2 were less damped than I was expecting – certainly less so than the ultra-soft tactile Pegasus switches I tried in the mechanical TK75 V2, for instance – but I still found them satisfying to use, whether I was gaming or typing.

The latter was also helped by the shallow, short-traveling Cherry profile keycaps, which makes the TK75HE V2 suited to productivity tasks. However, it really needs a wrist rest to make long sessions comfortable.

The TK75HE V2 has a low price for an analog keyboard, undercutting many of its big name rivals by a huge margin, such as the SteelSeries Apex Pro. However, that keyboard has some of the best analog switches I’ve tried, and offers exceptional gaming performance overall.

But the TK75HE V2 isn’t that far behind in this regard, which makes it a great entry point for those looking to get their fingers on some analog switches. The mechanical TK75 V2 is slightly cheaper but not by much, although this would be a better alternative for those who prefer soft and silent key presses.

Gamakay TK75HE V2 review: price and availability

• $109.99 / £85 / AU$176
• Available now in two colorways
• Cheaper than many analog boards

The TK75HE V2 costs $109.99 / £85 / AU$176 and is available now in two colorways: black and white. It can be configured with two stock switch types: Phoenix, which is silent; or Mercury, which is linear. Additionally, it comes with a USB cable and a keycap puller for hot-swapping purposes.

The TK75HE V2 is more expensive than its mechanical counterpart, the TK75 V2, which has an exquisite typing feel with much more dampening, although this could be due to the tactile Pegasus switches I experienced in that board. However, since it doesn’t use analog switches, there aren’t any actuation adjustments.

If you’re looking for pure analog performance, the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL is hard to beat. It’s one of the best keyboards with analog switches in my view, offering incredible precision and responsiveness, but it’s considerably more expensive than the TK75HE V2.

Value score: 5 / 5

Gamakay TK75HE V2 review: specs

Gamakay TK75HE V2 review: design and features

• Minimal looks
• Premium feel
• Versatile but unrefined software

The TK75HE V2 has a rather understated appearance, although this is buoyed somewhat by the bright RGB lighting, which is even more pronounced in the white variant. But overall its minimal aesthetic should fit in well with most setups.

Build quality is also admirable, with the plastic chassis feeling durable yet pleasingly light at the same time. It has a thick depth at the back, but this narrows out at the front, which helps to keep things compact.

This narrowing also improves usability, since the TK75HE V2 doesn’t come with a wrist rest. It does come with a USB cable, but this is disappointingly short and may prove unfeasible for certain setups.

The PBT keycaps feel premium to the touch, with a very subtle texture that doesn’t encroach on their smoothness. It’s slightly inconvenient, however, that the FN shortcuts aren’t labelled on the keys themselves, so you’ll have to refer to the included manual to see what they are.

The volume wheel is well notched to allow for smooth yet controlled jogging, although its click function is a little too stiff for my liking – but this is a minor grievance.

A small screen is also nestled in the bottom right corner, controllable via the volume knob, although I found little use for it since its functionality is quite limited. You can view the runtime and date, as well as CPU usage and temperature – although these latter two failed to take readings, and there’s nothing in the manual to explain how to set this up.

Rounding out the interface’s capabilities are RGB lighting adjustments and Mac and Windows modes. You can also display your own drawings, but for this you’ll need to download the Gamakay Driver PC app.

This app also contains many other typical gaming keyboard customizations. There are various rebinding options with multiple layers available, although sadly system shortcuts and commands seem to be absent: you can only remap keys to other keys, key combinations with modifiers, or macros you’ve created.

There are also numerous adjustments for the analog switches, though, including independent actuation point sliders for presses and releases. There are also various modes to toggle and configure, such as multi-input, continuous trigger, and others.

Overall, the Gamakay Driver provides an impressive selection of customizations, although some analog-based functions are missing, such as controller emulation. What’s more, the software isn’t without its faults.

Firstly, the app window can’t be resized, which, in my experience at least, can result in cut-offs. There were also certain sections where text explanations weren’t fully rendered.

What’s more, certain explanations were hard to understand, and some occasional odd word choices didn’t help matters either: for example, a button used to select multiple keys for customizing simultaneously is labelled “drag”.

Design & features score: 3.5 / 5

Gamakay TK75HE V2 review: performance

• Satisfying feedback
• Not as damped as other keyboards
• Controlled analog switches

The TK75HE V2 is very capable when it comes to gaming. Its keys are very responsive, although I can’t say the 8K polling rate provided a noticeable improvement in this regard over other boards.

The unit I had came preinstalled with Gamakay’s Mercury switches, which are said to have a linear profile. Their impact might deter some gamers, as they lack the dampening of some of the best mechanical keyboards: they’re more clicky and louder, but there’s still enough cushioning to make them satisfying to use.

What’s more, they feel a little heavier than other analog switches I’ve tried, which works in their favor as their resistance is progressive, feeling lighter at the top but getting heavier as they near the end of their travel.

This makes for controlled presses, and is especially useful when trying to hit certain actuation points. It also means that quickfire presses are easy to execute, which is especially useful when using the Rapid Tap feature – one of the key selling points of analog switches.

The mild indentation of the Cherry profile keys was something I welcomed too, as they allow for a secure positioning while still being amenable to gliding over the board.

This aspect also makes the bottom row readily accessible, as does the subtle concaving of the layout in general. The space bar is pleasingly low too, as it meant I could hit it with the tip of my thumb rather than the edge.

However, one small gripe I have is with the feet, which aren’t stable enough to handle even small shuffles back and forth. This may prove frustrating to those who frequently adjust the position of their keyboard.

Typing performance is also good, with those Mercury switches providing plenty of feedback and bounce, while being controlled at the same time. This allowed for fast and accurate typing – although the drawback is the relatively loud noise they generate.

I found the layout a little cramped at first, but I got used to it quickly. The angle provided by the feet does improve the ergonomics, but I still experienced some discomfort after only a short period; the TK75HE V2 is another keyboard that requires additional wrist support and yet sadly doesn't come with any.

Performance score: 4 / 5

Should I buy the Gamakay TK75HE V2?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Gamakay TK75HE V2 review: also consider

How I tested the Gamakay TK75HE V2

• Tested for a few days
• Used for gaming and working
• Plentiful keyboard experience

I tested the TK75HE V2 for a few days, during which time I used it for gaming and working on both Windows 10 and 11 machines.

I played Counter-Strike 2, which is a great test for any peripheral due the premium it places on fast and accurate inputs. It’s especially useful when testing analog switches, since counter-strafing can put Rapid Trigger features through their paces.

I have been PC gaming for over a decade, and during that time I have used a great deal of keyboards. I have also reviewed numerous examples, including those with analog switches and other Gamakay models.

• First reviewed: May 2025
• Read more about how we test

Logitech Pro X 60: Two-minute review

The Logitech Pro X 60 is a compact wireless gaming keyboard featuring Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connectivity, employing the brand’s Lightspeed standard for improved gaming performance.

Its no-thrills appearance makes it suitable for any setting, although the magenta variant adds a lot more vibrancy if that’s what you’re after. It’s also small and light enough to fit easily into any setup.

What’s more, the build quality is excellent. Despite its lightness, it still feels solid and is put together as well as the best gaming keyboards. The various buttons and folding feet also seem durable and engineered to a high standard, while the double-shot PBT keycaps feel as premium as you would expect.

Despite the compromised layout, the Pro X 60 still manages to include a volume wheel, positioned on the left side of the chassis and within comfortable reach of the middle fingers, although it’s a shame it has no click-to-mute function. There are also two buttons on the rear for hot-swapping between devices connected via Bluetooth and the 2.4GHz dongle.

There are a good number of FN shortcuts available on the Pro X 60, too. However, even more customizations and shortcut options are possible with Logitech’s G Hub software. Numerous binding layers are available, and you’ll find an impressive number of system commands and media functions to map, and even the ability to assign mouse inputs.

There are also shortcuts for actions specific to certain applications, such as Streamlabs, OBS, and Discord. Key combinations with modifiers can also be bound, as can five inputs to a single key. As is customary for gaming peripheral software, G Hub also offers macro creation and RGB tweaking.

When gaming, the Pro X 60 performs admirably. Despite using optical switches, it feels more like a mechanical keyboard, with snappy and responsive inputs. It isn’t as damped as others, but I still found the tactile switches in my unit a pleasure to use. Typing is equally satisfying, although the lack of wrist support does become more of a problem in this instance, given the steep angle created by the thick chassis.

Connectivity via both wireless standards is good, and hot-switching between devices is quick and easy. Battery life is decent too, although charging is a little on the slower side.

The Pro X 60 is an expensive keyboard, especially for one with optical switches and a 60% layout. It does perform well, but there’s plenty of competition at this price point: for not much more, you could get the SteelSeries Apex Pro, which offers tremendous analog switches, although it’s wired only. And if you really want to save money, the Keychron C3 Pro is one of the best budget keyboards around.

Logitech Pro X 60 review: price and availability

• $179.99 / £179.99 / AU$399.95
• Available now in multiple colorways
• Expensive for its form factor

The Pro X 60 costs $179.99 / £179.99 / AU$399.95 and is available now in black, white, and magenta colorways. It comes with a USB cable and an extension adapter for the USB dongle, as well as a spare Escape key and a carrying case.

For a 60% keyboard, the Pro X 60 is certainly expensive. It’s not far behind the price of the SteelSeries Apex Pro, which is one of the best analog keyboards I’ve tried. As such, it also features a vast amount of tweaking options to get the set up just so. However, it’s wired only, and while a wireless variant is available, that’s more expensive.

If you want something decidedly more budget-friendly, then the Keychron C3 Pro is about the best keyboard for those looking for a cheap, compact companion. We found it performed well, even for gaming, although it might not satisfy more serious players.

Value: 3 / 5

Logitech Pro X 60 review: specs

Logitech Pro X 60 review: design and features

• Good build quality
• No wrist support
• G Hub software is versatile

The Pro X 60 cuts a sleek and elegant figure, with its floating key design, which I’m usually a fan of. It has a rather muted appearance for a gaming peripheral – although the magenta colorway certainly makes it more vibrant, as does the RGB lightning.

Since it has a 60% layout, the Pro X 60 is small and compact, with a light weight as well. The feet are a little on the shallow side, as they only raise the board by eight degrees. Still, I found this just enough to get a comfortable position.

However, no wrist rest is included, and despite finding it more comfortable than other rest-less gaming keyboards, after longer sessions the Pro X 60 can get uncomfortable, especially when typing.

There are two convenient buttons on the back to quickly switch between wireless modes, and a small volume wheel is located on the left side, which saves space and is easy to use while in the WASD position. It’s a shame, though, that this wheel has no click function for muting – this is instead handled via an FN shortcut.

All aspects of the Pro X 60 feel premium, from the chassis to the double-shot PBT keycaps, which have a subtle texture while still being smooth to the touch. They’re quite thick and have a small indentation.

Despite the lack of keys, the Pro X 60 does a good job of including numerous FN shortcuts. These are clearly marked on the keys that have this function, although it’s a pity that the RGB lighting doesn’t illuminate them, so you’ll need a good memory if you’re using the Pro X 60 in the dark.

Logitech also allows for extra layers of customization via its G-Shift functionality and the custom assignment button, which is mapped to FN+A by default. Using the G Hub software, you’ll be able to rebind keys to a wealth of system commands, including audio output cycling and other media controls, as well as mouse inputs. You can also assign key combinations involving modifier keys, and assign up to five binds to a single key.

G Hub also provides shortcuts for specific functions in Overwolf, Streamlabs, Discord, and OBS. The obligatory RGB customizations and macro creation sections are also present. The interface is clear and easy to navigate, with handy explanations provided for various settings. G Hub also runs stably for the most part, although it can be a tad sluggish at times.

Design & features: 4 / 5

Logitech Pro X 60 review: performance

• Snappy, fast switches
• Feels mechanical
• Fast connectivity switching

The Pro X 60 performs well when it comes to the business of gaming. The tactile switches feel just as snappy as some of the best mechanical keyboards – despite being optical – yet they’re not too light to allow for mispresses. They’re quick to rebound too, allowing for rapid inputs. However, those who like a good amount of dampening probably won’t be too keen on the feel of the Pro X 60, as they’re more clicky than cushioned.

The space bar, though, is more damped with a smoother actuation, yet is even more springy than the other keys, which again helps quick, successive inputs. However, due to its angle, which slopes away from the user, I occasionally hit it with the edge of my thumb rather than flush. The other keys on the bottom row follow the same trajectory, but I didn’t experience any issue with these and were easy to hit comfortably.

Even though the aforementioned FN shortcuts are impressive in their scope, the positioning of the arrow key shortcuts could be better. They’re on the same side as the FN key itself, which means the combination of all keys involved has to be done on one hand, which I found awkward and unintuitive. The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini, for instance, places its arrow key shortcuts on the WASD keys, which makes more sense. However, you can of course remap the arrow key shortcuts to other keys if you wish, so the inconvenience isn’t that great.

I also found the Pro X 60 good for typing, as that tactility and bounce provides plenty of feedback while being easy to use. The shallow indentations of the keycaps makes them amenable to gliding, too. What’s more, since the actuation point isn’t too high, I didn’t make many typos, at least compared to similar keyboards I’ve tried. As someone who generally prefers low profile, laptop-style keys for productivity, I was surprised how well I got on with the Pro X 60 in this regard.

I experienced no issues with connectivity during my time with the Pro X 60, and switching between 2.4GHz and Bluetooth devices was fast and easy. After several days of varied use, the battery dipped by about 10%, which seems roughly in line with Logitech’s 65-hour claim. Charging it from half to full capacity took about three hours, which isn’t especially quick, but it suffices.

Performance: 4 / 5

Should I buy the Logitech Pro X 60?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Logitech Pro X 60 review: Also consider

How I tested the Logitech Pro X 60

• Tested for several days
• Varied usage
• Plentiful gaming experience

I tested the Pro X 60 for several days, during which time I used it for gaming, working, and general browsing. I used both the 2.4GHz dongle and Bluetooth to connect to two different PCs.

I played games such as Counter-Strike 2, which is a great test for peripherals given the demands it places on accuracy and responsiveness. I also played S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 : Heart of Chornobyl, which similarly tests these aspects, but requires a broader usage of keys.

I have been PC gaming for over a decade, and have experienced a good deal of keyboards in that time. I have also reviewed numerous examples, ranging in their form factor, switch type, and price.

• First reviewed March 2025
• Read more about how we test

Logitech Pro X TKL Rapid: one-minute review

The Logitech Pro X TKL Rapid is a compact wired gaming keyboard with analog switches for greater precision and versatility when it comes to tweaking performance.

It looks like a fairly typical keyboard, lacking the pomp and ceremony of some of the more extravagant gaming peripherals out there, although the RGB lighting does make it stand out more, as do the white and pink colorways.

In terms of build quality, the Pro X TKL Rapid is level with what the best gaming keyboards offer. It has a thick yet sleek form, with enough heft to make itself known without being onerous. All the materials feel premium too, especially the keycaps, which have just enough texture to make them tactile.

There are a few extra media and other buttons at the very top, and a volume wheel that’s smooth and easy to use in the heat of the moment, thanks to its long, cylindrical shape. It’s a minor shame that it has no click-to-mute functionality, though.

The Pro X TKL Rapid can be customized using Logitech’s G HUB software, which offers plenty in the way of rebinding options, and also features the obligatory macro creation and RGB tweaking.

There are also plenty of actuation adjustments available, some of which are more involved than I’ve ever seen before. A real-time visual indicator is provided for general actuation, although such feedback is sadly absent when setting up Rapid Trigger, Multi-action, and Key Priority functions – and where it’s perhaps needed most.

To game with, the Pro X TKL Rapid offers the snappy performance you would expect from analog switches. However, I did find it a little too difficult to hit certain actuation points accurately and consistently, which is a problem if you have multiple inputs assigned to a single key.

I also found typing uncomfortable, owing to a combination of the thick keys and a lack of wrist support. Those who are used to thicker keycaps for typing may find them easier to live with, though.

For the price, the Pro X TKL Rapid represents good value compared to many analog keyboards. However, the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog is cheaper, and we still think it’s the best gaming keyboard around. So despite being a capable analog keyboard, the Pro X TKL Rapid doesn’t quite reach the heights of some of its key rivals.

Logitech Pro X TKL Rapid review: price and availability

• $169.99 / £169.99 / AU$329.95
• Available now in three colorways
• Cheaper than some analog rivals

The Pro X TKL Rapid costs $169.99 / £169.99 / AU$329.95 and is available now in three colorways: black, white, and pink. It comes with a detachable USB-C-to-A cable, although it’s wired-only, with no wireless alternative available.

This is a good price for a wired analog keyboard. It’s cheaper than the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL, for instance, although I personally found that board offered better precision, and I could find little wrong with it in terms of performance or design. It also comes with a wrist rest, which the Pro X TKL Rapid doesn’t, although this is perhaps its weakest aspect.

However, there’s also the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog TKL, whose full-size counterpart we still think is the best keyboard for gaming. This smaller variant is cheaper than the Pro X TKL Rapid, yet offers incredible performance, customization, and design.

Value: 3.5 / 5

Logitech Pro X TKL Rapid review: specs

Logitech Pro X TKL Rapid review: design and features

• Muted looks
• Premium build quality
• Useful analog tweaks

The Pro X TKL Rapid looks fairly typical for a Logitech gaming peripheral, with a subdued aesthetic that will fit in any setup or situation. However, the white and pink colorways add more vibrancy. Meanwhile, its body is thick but not to the extent of some other boards, and quite weighty without being the heaviest around. The compact layout and floating keys also help to make it appear more sleek than it otherwise would be.

In line with Logitech’s other peripherals, the Pro X TKL Rapid is very well made, with a premium plastic chassis and superb-feeling keycaps that are silky smooth with just enough texture to offer some tactility. Overall, the Pro X TKL Rapid is certainly up there with the best gaming keyboards in terms of build quality.

Its keycaps are also quite thick and have a small indentation. The layout is compact without being cramped, and there’s a very slight dip in the middle to aid with ergonomics. The overall tilt of the keys can be increased using the two-stage feet, which offer four-degree and eight-degree angles.

A handful of media keys adorn the top of the Pro X TKL Rapid, alongside a button for toggling RGB lighting brightness levels and a Game Mode button for disabling keys of your choosing while gaming, with the Windows key deactivated by default.

There’s also a volume wheel in the top right corner, that takes the form of a long, cylindrical roller you scroll up and down on, which gives it a smooth operation and makes it easier to utilize than a laterally rotating dial. It’s a shame, however, that there’s no click-to-mute function, although this is handled by one of the media buttons instead.

The Pro X TKL Rapid can be customized using Logitech’s G HUB peripheral software. Here you’ll find the usual gaming keyboard customization options, including RGB customization, macro creation, and key remapping.

On the latter front, there are a large number of system functions you can assign, including audio input and output cycling and opening certain Windows apps, such as Task Manager and File Explorer. Mouse buttons can also be mapped (although cursor movements can’t), and there are specific shortcut actions for Overwolf, Streamlabs Desktop, Discord, and OBS.

Fn and G-Shift layers are available for rebinding, in addition to a custom assignment shortcut (by default mapped to fn+F1) that can be used to toggle your rebinds on or off.

Since the Pro X TKL Rapid has analog switches, there are various actuation adjustments at your disposal in G HUB, too. You can adjust the overall actuation point of keys between 0.1 and 4mm, as well as toggle a Rapid Trigger function to alter their reset point between 0.1 and 2mm.

There’s also a Multi-action feature that lets you assign two inputs to a single key – which isn’t to be confused with the Multiple Commands feature, which lets you assign up to five inputs to a single key, depending on whether you press, hold, or release the key in question. With Multi-action, each input is triggered at two independent, customizable actuation points. However, only keys and modifiers can be selected for Multi-action, with system functions, macros and the like excluded, which is a shame.

Another analog feature is Key Priority, which lets you decide which of any two keys takes registration precedence when pressed at the same time (beware, though, that this function is banned in certain games, such as Counter-Strike 2).

This mode has settings more in-depth than I’ve seen before in analog keyboard software. You can choose which one always has priority, or prioritize whichever is pressed furthest pressed or pressed last. There’s also a neutral mode, which prevents either key from registering if they’re both pressed, as well as a toggle that allows for both to register as normal when fully pressed simultaneously.

It’s a shame, however, that there’s no controller emulation option, as some other analog keyboards provide. And although there’s an animation conveying real-time actuation in the main menu, none is provided when setting up Multi-action, Rapid Trigger, or Key Priority, which is a real shame since this would provide some much needed visual feedback for the adjustments you make.

These omissions aside, G HUB is hard to fault in terms of usability, with its clear layout making for easy navigation. It was also quite stable in my experience; there were a few occasions where it felt a little sluggish, but not disruptively so. Useful explanations are also provided for most of the analog adjustments, along with guides for these and the remapping functionality in the settings menu.

Design & features: 4 / 5

Logitech Pro X TKL Rapid review: performance

• Satisfying key strokes
• Overly sensitive analog switches
• Uncomfortable typing

The gaming performance of the Pro X TKL Rapid is good for the most part. The keys feel great to press, offering a smooth operation with a satisfying thock, although this isn’t as pronounced as that of the best mechanical keyboards. I still found them pleasurable to use, though.

Their slight indentation also helped my fingers to stay secure, while the angled layout made it comfortable to access the salient keys, including the bottom row as that can sometimes be a problem area for gaming keyboards. I do wish, however, that the feet offered a more acute angle, which would’ve made access even easier and more comfortable.

Since the Pro X TKL Rapid has analog switches, the Pro X TKL Rapid is capable of offering extremely snappy performance, too. However, I found that no matter what actuation point I set, the switches were always a little too sensitive. This makes it harder to hit certain actuation points, which is especially a problem if you have Multi-action inputs set up.

That aforementioned thickness also created an issue, especially when typing, as I had to adopt a more unnatural wrist angle and once more the feet didn’t provide a sufficient angle to remedy this. What the Pro X TKL Rapid really needs is a wrist rest, but unfortunately one isn't included.

The thick keycaps didn’t help either, although I’m someone who usually prefers low profile, laptop-style keys for productivity purposes, so other users may not have an issue with these.

Performance: 3.5 / 5

Should I buy the Logitech Pro X TKL Rapid?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Logitech Pro X TKL Rapid review: also consider

How I tested the Logitech Pro X TKL Rapid

• Tested for several days
• Used for gaming and productivity
• Plentiful PC gaming experience

I tested the Pro X TKL Rapid for several days, during which time I used it for gaming, productivity, and general browsing.

I played Counter-Strike 2, which is a great test for peripherals, as it requires the utmost responsiveness and precision. It’s also a good test for the Rapid Trigger functionality of analog keyboards, allowing for very fast micro-movements and counter-strafing. I also played S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, another FPS but one which utilizes more keys on the board.

I have been PC gaming for over a decade, and during that time I have used a large number of gaming keyboards. I have also reviewed a good number of them, including other Logitech models and those with analog switches.

• First reviewed March 2025
• Read more about how we test

It’s hard not to fall in love with the Cherry KW 7100 Mini BT, in part because it’s so wee and in part because you get to choose from two eye-catching pastel colors: Cherry Blossom (pink) or Agave Green as pictured. Or you can opt for boring black. Despite its attractive price, the KW 7100 Mini comes with a travel pouch (made from recycled plastic), although it’s only offered in dark grey.

Build quality is up to Cherry’s usual high standards, with its SX scissor mechanism delivering a shallow but satisfying typing action similar to a good-quality laptop. It isn’t up there with mechanical keyboards, but it’s also much quieter. With big Enter, backspace and space keys, I don’t think you’ll struggle to hit high typing speeds despite its slim 295mm width.

The KW 7100 Mini should look just as good on day 500 as it does on day one, with the key lettering protected by a UV coating to guard against abrasions. Those keys are designed to last for more than ten million hits apiece, which is no doubt why Cherry feels confident enough to offer a three-year warranty.

A row of function keys sits at the top, all of which are customizable using the Cherry Keys software. This is almost charmingly basic, and it will take moments for you to assign actions or favorite websites. You also use the F1, F2 and F3 keys to switch between active Bluetooth connections; there’s no USB adapter here, and Apple devices aren’t supported either (it refused to pair with my iPad).

Aside from the sturdy feet that lift the rear of the keyboard for a better typing angle, that’s it for physical features. Backlighting isn’t present, merely LEDs to indicate which Bluetooth channel is active and if the Fn or Caps lock are active. These will also start flashing when the two AAA batteries run low, which will probably be months; all Cherry says about battery life is that it strongly depends on user behavior.

One final word for those who love matching accessories: you can buy a color-coordinated Cherry Gentix BT mouse, but its clicky keys reflect its low price: £16 from cclonline.com.

The KW 7100 Mini BT isn’t for those who love frills, then, nor is it for Apple fans. For everyone else, though, it’s a superb travel-friendly choice.

We also rated the best eco-friendly travel apps.

Satechi SM3: Two-minute review

Satechi has been making Apple-esque accessories for a few years now, with keyboards, mice, charging docks and more on its roster. But in all that time, it’s never made a mechanical keyboard – until the SM3 came along.

Satechi has opted to kick off its mechanical range with a full-size board that features a numpad on its right-hand edge. It looks great and will fit in neatly with your Apple devices, but it also works perfectly well with Windows PCs.

The key switches feel a little heavy and there’s only one switch choice. Satechi has opted for its own proprietary switch, making it harder to know how the board will feel before you buy. That holds it back, and we’d prefer more choice here. Looking beyond that, it’s got plenty of connectivity options, making it well suited to people who find themselves typing on different devices during the day.

Satechi SM3: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? $119.99 (about £93 / $190 AUD)
• When is it available? Available now
• Where can you get it? Available globally

The Satechi SM3 costs $119.99, which is about £93 or $190 AUD. That’s not an outrageous price to pay, especially for a full-length board.

Satechi SM3: Design

The SM3 is Satechi’s first full-length, 108-character keyboard. That means it comes with a numpad on the right-hand side, along with a couple of bonus keys for connecting the device to Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, or over a cable.

My review unit came in a simple, attractive gray and white colorway, but there’s also a darker version available. Both come with 14 different backlighting patterns (some of which are a touch distracting) but it only shines in white – there’s no RGB here. That white backlighting was often hard to see in daylight against the white keycaps, making discerning keys with a quick glance trickier than it should have been. There was no issue in low light, though.

This is a slimline keyboard with low-profile keycaps (there are a few spare Windows ones in the box), and that helps it fit neatly into a bag on your travels, provided your backpack can accommodate the keyboard’s full-size length. The keycaps are removable, but any replacements need to fit Satechi’s proprietary switch stems (more on that later).

The SM3 is also impressively lightweight for a large keyboard, weighing in at 1.42lbs (648g) on my scales. For comparison, my Keychron K8 – with its smaller tenkeyless design – weighs 1.96lbs (889g). The Satechi SM3 comes with an aluminum top and sides, while the underneath is made from sturdy plastic.

Around the back are two pop-out feet to prop the board up. Although there are two height options here, they’re both at a fairly shallow angle. It would have been good to have an option for a higher incline. There’s also no wrist rest, but that’s not a huge problem.

Satechi SM3: Performance

The Satechi SM3 is a mechanical keyboard, but it only comes with one switch: a proprietary brown tactile option. It’s a little heavy and sluggish in use, and after a few days I noticed some finger fatigue from having to press harder than I’m used to. A more lightweight configuration would have been welcome. The switches are not hot-swappable, either, so if they don’t feel right to you, you’re stuck with them.

This is definitely not a gaming keyboard, but it’s surprisingly viable for this usage. I played a range of titles, including fast-paced shooters and much more sedate games, and in both cases the keyboard stood up reasonably well. You won’t find any gamer-specific features, but the low-profile keycaps were easy to find by touch in the heat of battle. The main issue is the board’s length, and I found my mouse hitting the edge of the numpad at times.

I did have occasional issues with certain keys not registering when pressed, and this seemed to mainly affect the space bar and left Shift key. There were no issues with ghosting in my testing, though.

You can connect the SM3 to two devices over Bluetooth, one using the 2.4GHz receiver, and one with the included USB-C cable. Switching over Bluetooth takes about a second and just requires you to press a single button on the keyboard. You can also change layouts between Windows and macOS, and the keys to do this have “Mac” or “Win” helpfully printed on their keycaps.

Disappointingly, there’s no companion app to assign macros and reassign keys, and the SM3 is not compatible with QMK or VIA.

Should you buy the Satechi SM3?

Buy the Satechi SM3 if…

Don’t buy it if…

Satechi SM3: Also consider

How I tested the Satechi SM3

I tested out the Satechi SM3 in both work and gaming scenarios, using it to type all day long and game in the evenings. I also paired it with both a Mac and a PC and tried it on both machines to see how well it fared with the different key layouts.

First reviewed March 2025

Despite its competitive price – the range starts at £649 inc VAT for a Core i3-1315U/8GB/256GB spec with Windows 11 Home – the E14 Gen 5 is everything a ThinkPad is expected to be. This graphite black laptop has the chrome ThinkPad logo on its aluminum lid, complete with the red-lit dotted “i” that gives it a hint of business elegance.

I tested the version with a polycarbonate/ABS cover, but you can choose aluminum. This adds nothing to the price and only 20g to the weight, and the latter is one of this laptop’s most attractive features: 1.4kg with the 47Wh battery, 1.5kg with the 57Wh option. However, with the bigger battery in place, the laptop only survived 7hrs 48mins in our web-surfing test. With this spec, we expected something over nine hours.

The power drain doesn’t come from Lenovo squeezing every last drop out of the supplied Core i7-1355U CPU. Although the E14 Gen 5 never missed a beat in my daily usage, the benchmarks don’t lie: Lenovo’s own ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 scored 8,979 in Geekbench 6.2’s multicore test to the E14’s 8,000. Similarly, in our Handbrake test, the E14 took 10mins 57secs to convert our sample 4K video to 1080p compared to 9mins 5secs for the X1.

Both machines have 16GB of RAM and, while the X1 has the advantage of LPDDR5 memory, it’s all soldered onto the motherboard. Here, 8GB is soldered on but there’s an 8GB DIMM that can be replaced by a 32GB module. You can also swap out the supplied 512GB SSD, a short but speedy M.2 2242 unit, or specify a 1TB model for an extra £60 when ordering.

The E14 continues Lenovo’s tradition of excellent keyboards, with snappy, deep-travel, chiclet-style keys, the trademark red TrackPoint and plenty of spacing. I loved typing on it and managed 91 words per minute in the 10FastFingers.com test with 97% accuracy, compared to my average of 88wpm with 91% accuracy. A smooth and centrally located touchpad adds to its attractions.

As ever with budget laptops, Lenovo has made a sacrifice with the screen. This is no wide-gamut affair, covering 65% of the sRGB space and 46% of DCI-P3. However, it’s strong in other areas: peak brightness of 374cd/m² is actually 74cd/m² more than Lenovo claims, while an average Delta E of 0.3 confirms excellent colour accuracy. It’s anti-glare, too, so great for office work, while a 1,920 x 1,200 resolution looks sharp over the 14in diagonal.

A webcam perches above the screen, and it’s worth choosing the 1080p unit in my machine over the 720p option (at a cost of £20). It produced excellent video in good lighting, and even coped in low-light conditions. Autofocus and tracking were speedy, while using Windows Hello proved a breeze.

The dual mics did a fine job of focusing on my voice while keeping background noise to a minimum, and I was similarly pleased with the speakers.

Music emerged with discernible depth, mid-tones and highs. Take Megan Thee Stallion’s “Her”. The house music bassline hit hard, with no distortion even at the highest volume. Despite being lightweight and pretty slim – 19mm at the front, 22.7mm at the rear – Lenovo includes a generous number of ports. The left side packs two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a USB-A port, an HDMI out and a combo audio jack. The right features a USB-A port, gigabit Ethernet and a nano Kensington lock. The latter adds to an impressive roster of security features, with a physical cover on the webcam, a self-healing BIOS and the option of a fingerprint reader (£10) built into the power button.

Our price includes all these options, including Windows 11 Pro, but one of the great things about Lenovo’s approach is that you can customize it. For example, switching to a Core i5-1335U saves £200. You might prefer to spend some of this to extend the one year of on-site cover to three years; this has a list price of £210, but Lenovo frequently offers generous discounts.

So while battery life disappoints and we have criticisms of the screen and its outright speed, the E14 Gen 5 adds up to a strong choice for businesses on a budget. And even if you do cut it down to its most basic specs, it will exude professionalism for years to come.

We've also ranked the best video editing software for beginners.

Corsair K70 Pro TKL: Two-minute review

Corsair is no stranger to the world of PC peripherals. Some of my favorite stock gaming keyboards, like the K100 Air, fly Corsair sails. So it's no surprise that the Corsair K70 Pro TKL comes with a certain air of polish and and premium feel that other boards strive to replicate but ultimately can't nail down.

However, this keyboard won't be making its way into my daily-driver arsenal, and it's for two main reasons: no hot-swap support, and a sharp, noisy typing sound.

If this keyboard's pre-lubed Hall effect magnetic switches were hot-swappable, it would solve both issues at once; I'd be able to change up the sound and feel at the pull of a switch.

But not everyone wants to buy and apply all new sets of switches and keycaps. Many gamers just want to take a keyboard out of the box, have it give them an edge over the competition, and look good doing it. The K70 Pro TKL is a fantastic option in that regard.

And, with Corsair's iCUE software, you do have quite a few options for customization when it comes to actuation, RGB lighting, macros, and more. Plus, it's actually pretty intuitive to use, which is more than can be said for most peripheral software.

If you prefer the freedom and safety of full customization, this isn't the board for you. I'd opt for something like the Keychron Q6 Max instead, which, despite its higher price point, offers the ability to repair a switch when it breaks rather than purchasing a whole new keyboard or breaking out a soldering iron. This doesn't give you the performance of Hall effect switches, but honestly, unless you're at the summit of competitive gaming, you're probably not going to notice a discernable difference.

But, if you want to plug and play with some of the best performance and features of any keyboard on the block, the Corsair K70 Pro TKL is your chance.

Corsair K70 Pro TKL: Price & Availability

• How much does it cost? $179.99 / £169.99
• When is it available? Available now
• Where can you get it? Available in the US and UK

The price may be a bit hard to swallow at first glance - $180 for a keyboard definitely isn't cheap. But when you compare it to the best gaming keyboards on the market, that price really isn't too far off (in fact it's more affordable than many premium gaming keyboards).

There are two customization options you have before purchasing: choosing between Black and White colorways and selecting either ABS or PBT double-shot keycaps.

ABS keycaps are generally a bit cheaper to produce but the legends aren't as clear and may degrade over time more easily. PBT, which comes with a $10 upcharge, solves those issues.

Corsair K70 Pro TKL: Design

This Corsair board has a lot going for it in terms of design. My review unit came in the black colorway, and you can't get much more classic than that. It provides a nice contrast to the RGB lighting, which I'll touch on more later in this section.

Back to the chassis for now though. It's an interesting mix of plastic - which covers the outside of the keyboard - and an aluminum top plate that gives this TKL keyboard a satisfying blend of lightweight portability and hearty structural integrity.

Underneath that top plate is a sound-dampening layer of silicone, followed by the premium Hall-effect-ready PCB, and then another layer of silicone to keep things quiet.

Unfortunately, I can't say these silicone layers accomplish a whole lot. One of my main gripes with this keyboard is the loud, harsh clacking and pinging sounds as you type.

For some people, this won't matter at all because it's all about features and efficiency. For the mechanical keyboard geeks out there who love to crack open a shell and start stuffing tape and foam inside to get that perfect sound (looking at you, me) you'll probably pass in favor of something more customizable.

Similarly, this board is only available in a USB-C wired version - which won't matter for some and will make a world of difference for others.

Onto the stabilizers: they're plate mounted, which I've gone on record as saying aren't my favorite. While they are still pretty easy to replace, they don't offer the same level of security and acoustic accoutrement that screw-in stabs do. This is apparent every time you hit the rattly space bar and it screeches "ping!" back at you.

There are a lot of upsides, too. I love a vertical volume knob, especially one that lets me mute my audio with a tap. You can also configure this to change RGB brightness and zoom levels, or simply use it as a scroll wheel.

And to the left of that volume knob are two buttons that you can configure in iCUE, Corsair's customization app. These provide some nice functionality like locking into Gaming Mode (which disables the alt-f4 and the Windows key for accidental closures and alt-tabs), and whatever else you assign to the second button.

This is also where you can choose your RGB lighting effects to spice up your setup. There are prebuilt templates like breathing and wave effects, but you can also select individual keys and different effects to create your own designs.

Turning the board over, there are two feet you can flip out for a bit of added height framing a futuristic-looking back plate. These aren't bad, though I tend to go flat-footed with my keyboards anyway.

I'm also a big fan of the TKL form factor because I think it hits all the right areas without eating away all your desk space.

Plus, there's the star of the show: those MGX Hyperdrive magnetic Hall effect switches. While I don't think the average gamer needs them, they are very fast. And you can make them even faster by adjusting actuation levels in iCUE.

They also come pre-lubed, which is awesome to see more keyboard companies adopt. Keychron has been doing it for years, and it's an edge I always gave to its keyboards when reviewing them - it looks like that's changing in recent times, and I'm all for it. It just makes everything feel that much smoother - and doing it yourself is tedious.

The magnetic wrist rest is also a welcome and well-polished addition, and I found the keyboard comfortable to use both with and without it. That's the thing: this keyboard actually feels quite nice to type on if you like a quick, snappy switch - it just needs to clean up the sound and customization departments.

Corsair K70 Pro TKL: Performance

This is where the Corsair K70 Pro TKL shines. It has all the cool gaming features you can think of and some I guarantee you didn't.

Starting with the formalities, I never noticed any ghosting, double-typing, or any other low-budget keyboard problems here. The K70 Pro TKL was solid through and through.

Onto the cool stuff. Starting with Corsair's "Rapid Trigger" tech, this lets you feed inputs one after the other in rapid succession without having to release the other key. In practice, that means you can "a" and "d" around a corner to jiggle peak quicker than someone using inferior hardware. You can take this even further with adjustable actuation points, which let you activate a keystroke at the drop of a hat.

There's also dual actuation, which lets you assign two functionalities to one key - like walking if you press the key down half way, or sprinting if you put the pedal to the metal.

With these lightning fast key inputs comes the potential for game winning plays, but also mind numbing mistakes. Say you accidentally fat finger your ultimate key in a MOBA or WASD in Counter-Strike 2 when you meant to be holding an angle - it's a double-edged sword.

Thankfully, Corsair thought of this ahead of time and implemented a neat feature that cuts down on those accidental inputs: FlashTap tech. FlashTap lets you "prioritize the first, last, or neither input" when clicking two keys at the same time, which can be a lifesaver. It's disabled by default but can be toggled on with FN + Right Shift.

Combine all of that with Corsair's Axon tech that gives this keyboard a polling rate of 8,000Hz, and you have one seriously speedy keyboard.

Should you buy the Corsair K70 Pro TKL?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Corsair K70 Pro TKL: Also Consider

If our Corsair K70 Pro TKL review has you considering other options, I'd take a look at these...

How I tested the Corsair K70 Pro TKL

I replaced my daily driver gaming keyboard with the Corsair K70 Pro TKL for two weeks. I played games from all different genres, performed typing tests to assess n-key rollover and ghosting, and used it for general typing and web browsing.

I've been a PC gamer for more than a decade, and I've reviewed countless keyboards from OEMs like Corsair, Keychron, Das Key, and many more. I frequently mod and customize mechanical keyboards to nail down my favorite feel (until I find my new favorite).

First reviewed March 2025

Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL: one-minute review

The Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL is a wireless mechanical gaming keyboard with low-profile keys and multiple connectivity options for added convenience.

For a gaming peripheral, it looks fairly restrained, although the RGB lighting, especially against the white variant, does help to make it more vibrant. The thin chassis with its rounded sides and brushed-metal effect adds an element of class too.

It’s also built quite well, feeling sturdy yet surprisingly light, although it’s perhaps not quite as premium as the best gaming keyboard constructions. In particular, the double-shot PBT keycaps feel cheaper than you might expect, with a texture that’s less satisfying compared to others I’ve experienced.

The very top row buttons feel better though, with their rubber finish and heavily-damped presses feeling satisfying to use. The volume wheel also operates very smoothly, yet still provides enough control.

The Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL can be customized using Logitech’s G HUB software, which offers plenty of remapping options, from system functions to custom key combinations. There’s also a macro creator and RGB tweaking, as you might expect from a gaming keyboard. While the software is stable enough and laid out well, navigation can be a little too laborious at times, and more explanations wouldn’t go amiss either.

When gaming, the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL performs reasonably well. The tactile switches are snappy, but offer a fair amount of resistance; fortunately, the actuation point is low enough that you don’t have to approach that point where you feel that weight. The texture of the keycaps doesn’t offer much in the way of grip though, which can make finger placements less than secure.

For typing, I found the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL less impressive. That cramped layout made things awkward for me, as did the lack of tilt provided by the feet. I did appreciate the low-profile keycaps, though, as I generally prefer these for typing.

I had no issue connecting to devices via Bluetooth or the 2.4GHz wireless dongle, and switching between the two is easy thanks to the dedicated buttons on the top row. However, it’s a shame there’s no hot-switching between multiple devices connected via Bluetooth.

The battery life of the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL is good, as after several days of use – during which time I used it for gaming and working, and switched frequently between 2.4GHz and Bluetooth modes – it dipped to just below 50%.

One of the main issues with the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL, though, is the price. It sits at the top-end of the market, competing with some of the best keyboards around. However, it can’t match their level of performance, especially those with analog switches, such as the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog, which isn’t much more expensive. There’s also the Razer Pro Type Ultra, which is a versatile keyboard for both gaming and work, and is available for even less.

Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL review: price and availability

• $199.99 / £199.99 / AU$369.95
• Available now in black and white colorways
• Top-end of the market

The Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL costs $199.99 / £199.99 / AU$369.95 and is available now in two colorways: black and white. There are three different switch types to choose from: Tactile, Linear, and Clicky.

This places the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL at the higher end of the market, competing with other top-draw gaming keyboards. The best gaming keyboard in our view, the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog, is more expensive, but not by much. However, as the name suggests, this board has analog switches, which allow for greater speed, precision and customization than traditional mechanical switches. It also has a full-size layout.

The best keyboard with a premium feel, the Razer Pro Type Ultra, costs less, yet we found it to have excellent all-round performance, whether you’re gaming, working, or browsing.

Value: 3 / 5

Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL review: specs

Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL review: design and features

• Smart, light, and thin
• Keycaps don’t feel the best
• Good customizations via G HUB

The Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL adopts a mild gaming aesthetic, with its muted appearance making it more formal than others in the sector. The white colorway certainly adds more vibrancy – and enhances the RGB lighting just that little bit more – yet it still retains a smart demeanour.

The floating keycaps are a nice touch, and so too is the brushed metal of the face plate and the rolled edges of the chassis. Fortunately, the build quality matches its premium appearance: the whole body feels sturdy, despite being very light and thin for a gaming keyboard.

However, the double-shot PBT keycaps let things down, as I found their texture a little too scratchy and not the most pleasant to touch. The shortcut buttons above the keys, though, feel much better, as they’re soft, rubberized, and damped very well. The volume wheel is very smooth and easy to operate, yet has controlled spins.

Like many modern keyboards, the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL has two-stage feet that offer different tilting angles. However, I found that even the highest setting was still a little too shallow, so those who like a steep rake might be disappointed.

Logitech’s G HUB software can be used to customize the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL, with the usual options available, such as RGB lighting adjustments and key remapping, the latter of which features assignments for mouse buttons and scrolls, key combinations involving modifiers, and macros. There are also various media playback controls available, including a function to cycle available audio inputs and outputs. However, other common system-level functions are absent, which is a shame. As well as multiple profile slots, FN and G Shift layers are available too.

While G HUB runs very smoothly for the most part, navigating it can take one too many clicks, and it lacks explanations for certain default shortcuts and how they work, such as those for profile switching.

Design & features: 3.5 / 5

Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL review: performance

• Responsive yet heavy-feeling switches
• Keycaps issues
• Cramped for typing

The Tactile switches I had installed on the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL felt and sounded quite clicky. Despite having a snappy response, they offered more resistance than I expected when depressing fully, considering their low profile. However, the actuation point feels low, so I didn’t experience much fatigue when holding down keys for long periods.

Adopting the WASD position is comfortable enough, with all important keys, including the bottom row, being easy to reach and use; again this is thanks to that low profile, which is something I personally prefer in most cases.

However, despite the aforementioned texture of the keycaps, they offer very little grip, and it’s too easy to slide out of position – an issue made worse by shallow indentations, which of course isn’t ideal for more intense sessions.

For typing, I didn’t find the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL conducive to my style. Even though the low profile keycaps allowed me to glide around the board, I found the layout too cramped. I also couldn’t get the angle steep enough using the feet, which added to the discomfort I was feeling. What’s more, things can get quite loud when tapping away.

Connectivity over both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth is solid, and switching between them is easy with the top hotkeys. However, it’s a shame there’s no option to switch quickly between multiple devices connected via Bluetooth, as some of the best keyboards feature, including Logitech’s own models.

The battery life of the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL is quite good, as after several days of varied use, which included gaming, working, and browsing – as well as switching between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz modes regularly – it dipped to just below 50%.

Performance: 3.5 / 5

Should I buy the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL review: also consider

How I tested the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL

• Tested for several days
• Used for gaming, working, and browsing
• Plentiful gaming keyboard experience

I tested the Logitech G915 X Lightspeed TKL for several days, during which time I used it for gaming, working, and general browsing.

I played games such as Counter-Strike 2, which is a good test for keyboards since it requires quick and accurate inputs.

I have been PC gaming for over a decade, and during that time I have experienced many keyboards. I have also reviewed a good number across a broad spectrum of brands, switch types, and price points.

• First reviewed February 2025
• Read more about how we test

Asus ROG Falchion Ace HFX: one-minute review

Asus has introduced another fantastic keyboard with the ROG Falchion Ace HFX. This 65% board, which compresses only the most essential keys onto a short panel, offers immense functionality across several areas.

The drawcard of the Falchion Ace HFX is its incredible switches. While the standard Falchion Ace is available with three switch choices, the HFX only offers one tactile feel option – comfortable to the touch magnetic keys, making this Asus’ first hall effect keyboard. It’s one of the most satisfying keyboards to use that I’ve ever laid my hands on.

Despite not offering a wireless connection, it does include a dual USB-C arrangement so that it can quickly switch between two computers with a press of a button on the side, similar to how a monitor might switch between devices. A USB dongle or Bluetooth solution might have been more practical to pull this trick off, but it’s still a welcome ability.

More interesting to me is the return of Asus’ proprietary touch bar, a unique design element of the Falchion series that compresses media controls, volume, keyboard RGB brightness and other handy features into a touch panel, letting you adjust settings with taps and swipes of your finger. This feature rocked and is much more intuitive than a FN + key macro solution, though the depth of macroing with this keyboard is immense, allowing you to arrange quick commands, website hotkeys and quick Windows commands with a bindable keystroke.

With so much positive to say about the ROG Falchion Ace HFX, there aren’t many drawbacks, although the ones that are there might keep you from a purchase. This board doesn’t come cheap and is one of the most expensive options that Asus offers. The lack of a wireless variant will also leave buyers cutting down on cable clutter unimpressed, and those seeking wrist support will need to make a separate purchase.

More diehard keyboard shoppers will also be left unimpressed by the lack of hot-swapping functionality, and that there's only one switch type available (though the standard ROG Falchion offers three different options).

It’s a tremendous piece of kit. The ROG Falchion Ace HFX is one of the keyboards to beat in 2025, and it may be my favourite keyboard since the Logitech G PRO X TKL.

Asus ROG Falchion Ace HFX: price and availability

• How much does it cost? $199/£239.99/$AU$359
• When is it available? Available now
• Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, Australia and other regions

The ROG Falchion Ace HFX is the fourth most expensive keyboard that Asus offers, below the base model Azoth, customizable Claymore II, and the extremely expensive Azoth Extreme. The price marked for the Ace HFX is reflective of the epic magnetic switches underlying its awesome-feeling keys, but given its 65% size profile, it lacks a lot of the typically essential buttons present in the higher-priced models, including a dedicated function row and numpad.

Not that you should feel you need to move up the range for said features, because the Falchion Ace HFX is more than competent and exclusive on its own terms. Compared to the competition, it’s one of the only options to offer magnetic switches on a 65% board. You may want to consider the Logitech G Pro X 60 if you want an even smaller board, or the Glorious GMMK 3 Pro 65 if you want greater customization, but there aren't many major brands offering magnetic switches right now.

• Value: 4/5

Asus ROG Falchion Ace HFX: specs

Asus ROG Falchion HFX: design and features

• More reserved ROG design
• Brilliant build quality
• Useful multifunction panel and dual computer support

Asus’ ROG gaming accessories are at their best when they don’t look too gamery, and the Falchion HFX looks fairly neutral compared to many other high-end boards offered by the manufacturer.

Available only in black, the one thing about this board that I would consider a tad excessive from a design perspective is the spelling out of ‘Republic of Gamers’ across the top. RGB lights behind each key are programmable with several lighting animations available.

At the top left, you’ll see an illuminated symbol, indicating which setting you’ve got your multi-function touch panel set to, cycleable with the press of a multifunction button in the top left. The panel across the back can be swiped with a fingertip, and can be used to adjust brightness and volume, change key actuation points, play and pause media, or even pull off any dedicated macros you have in mind. In the Armory Crate app, you can limit which functions the cycling button switches between, allowing for a more streamlined experience (I simply have it set to volume and media controls). This touch bar isn’t a new feature, as it’s been available on other Falchion models since 2022, but it works especially well on a small board like this.

There are also lights at the top right, indicating if win lock has been activated, if caps lock is currently on, and if ‘Rapid Trigger’ has been enabled, allowing for much quicker keystroke response times than whatever your preset mode is set to.

Your keyboard’s RGB lighting and per key actuation points can also be adjusted in the ROG Armory Crate app, where you'll find Speed Tap mode. This changes the function of the keyboard to allow for quicker directional changes by prioritising the last pressed in key – so instead of coming to a full stop when strafing in a game, you’ll move left to right or vice versa without lifting your fingers off the keys.

• Design and features: 5/5

Asus ROG Falchion HFX: Performance

• 8,000Hz polling rate
• Magnetic hall effect switches with five layer dampening
• Useful competitive gaming features

The Asus ROG Falchion HFX is a gaming keyboard aimed at competitive play, through and through. It offers an exceptional 8,000Hz polling rate – an enormous amount of reports the keyboard provides your computer in a second, theoretically improving response time. As a result of this, click latency is as low as 1.1ms on average with the Falchion HFX.

The keys feel coarse in a comfortable way, allowing for satisfying tactile contact between your fingertips and your inputs. A raised dot on the W key allows you to position your hands for gaming without looking down, brilliant for low-light battle stations.

The actuation point of your keys can be adjusted readily on the fly using the multi-function touch panel, allowing for much more shallow keypresses if you so wish. Backing all of this up is the fact that the keys are magnetic, and well damped to allow for a satisfying press while also being quick and not too loud. On the less technical side, the keyboard has three adjustment angles with two sets of feet underneath.

Many of these features may go above and beyond the needs of a casual gamer and indeed are well past the desires of somebody just after a useful typing tool. But for a dedicated gamer, the ROG Falchion HFX might be the exact device for your hobby.

Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts will likely be disappointed by the lack of hot-swappable keys, and that there's only one switch to choose from. Thankfully, the base model ROG Falchion offers more switch variety – the Falchion HFX is more of a performance model with its magnetic keys.

• Performance: 5/5

Should I buy the Asus ROG Falchion HFX?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Asus ROG Falchion HFX: also consider

How I tested the Asus ROG Falchion Ace HFX

I tested the Asus ROG Falchion Ace HFX over four weeks, paired with other Asus products including an OLED monitor, mouse and headset. I used it exclusively on my Windows 11 gaming PC and played games including Marvel Rivals, Avowed, The Headliners and Forza Horizon 5. I also used it for some productivity tasks, such as for typing out documents.

Over that time I used it across several lighting settings, enabled different macros and put it in different positions, while constantly adjusting actuation points and diving into toggles in the Armory Crate app.

• First Reviewed February 2025

Lemokey L5 HE 8K: Two-minute review

The Lemokey L5 HE 8K is a gaming keyboard with Hall effect analog switches and an 8K polling rate – two factors designed to whet the appetites of serious players. The austere design isn’t complimented well by the dated design of the translucent outer keys, coming across a tad desperate in its attempt to appeal to games.

With that monolithic appearance comes a seriously heavy chassis, thanks to the aluminum construction. Some may prefer the extra stability this heft provides, but it’s certainly not as easy to move around as some of its rivals.

Perhaps because of this weight, the L5 HE 8K has no fold-out feet. I thought this would cause ergonomic issues, but thankfully the body isn’t too thick, and the keys are slightly tilted forward too, which makes typing and WASD positions more comfortable, even without a wrist rest – which is just as well, since it doesn’t come with one.

Rather than the standalone software that many of the best gaming keyboards come with, Lemokey has a web app for customizing the L5 HE 8K. This runs well for the most part, although I did experience a few UI issues, some of which required a refresh. Some might not like the idea of having to run a peripheral tool in a browser, either.

Once it’s working, though, it provides plenty of tweaking options, especially for the analog functionality, allowing you to make full use of those Hall effect switches. In addition to Rapid Trigger, single-key multi-input and snap action features, there’s also controller emulation, allowing you to replicate the analog behavior of triggers and joysticks.

In practice, this works well – to an extent: the precision offered by the analog keys is no match for that of an actual controller. The movements aren’t smooth enough, and I found that presses didn’t offer enough resistance to provide adequate control. This is true of analog performance more generally, as the Hall effect switches in the L5 HE 8K just aren’t as smooth or as precise as some of the best analog keyboards out there.

In other performance-related areas, though, the L5 HE 8K does better. The keys rebound quickly, allowing for rapid movements, and I found the concave nature of the key layout comfortable – two aspects that help with both gaming and typing. I wasn’t fond of the back-tilt of the space bar, though, as it resulted in hits on its edge rather than its top.

The L5 HE 8K is undeniably expensive, eclipsing many of its rivals. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3, for instance, is slightly cheaper, and while it lacks quite the same number of analog adjustments, it makes up for it with its superlative performance and build quality.

Lemokey L5 HE 8K review: price and availability

• $220 (about £175 / AU$346)
• Available now for backers
• Same price as the best analog keyboards

The L5 HE 8K will cost $220 (about £175 / AU$346) and is set for general release some time between April and May this year. However, it's available now for Kickstarter backers at the discounted price of $199. It comes with a braided USB-C-to-C cable (with a USB-A adapter included), a keycap puller, spare screws and rubber fixings, and screwdrivers.

This makes it about the same price as the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3, already a pricey keyboard. However, it’s about the best analog keyboard I’ve experienced when it comes to performance. There’s also a wireless variant which is naturally more expensive, but the difference isn’t huge. It does miss out on a few analog tweaks that the Apex Pro Gen 3 has, though, such as controller emulation, and lacks the same 8K polling rate.

If you want a more budget-friendly alternative in the analog sector, the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro isn’t a tempting proposition. Like the L5 HE 8K, it too offers gamepad emulation, although this isn’t as refined as I would’ve liked; Lemokey’s implementation is slightly better.

Value: 2.5 / 5

Lemokey L5 HE 8K review: specs

Lemokey L5 HE 8K review: design and features

• Dated looks
• Very heavy
• Web app for customization

The L5 HE 8K is reasonably understated, although some of the outer keys adopt a translucent design with some kind of tech-based sigil, which looks outdated and gives the sense that Lemokey is pandering to a gamer stereotype. Thankfully, this look is kept to a minimum.

The sharp angles of the body add to its industrial aesthetic too. It’s also very heavy, thanks to the aluminium body, which at least makes it durable and very sturdy, although some will find this level of heft unnecessary.

It’s also reasonably thick, but not as substantial as some other gaming keyboards. It lacks feet and wrist support, but thanks to the slight forward tilt of the keys, I could still get a comfortable hand position.

The included cable is braided, but doesn’t feel particularly premium, and it’s not as long as some others, which may be a problem for desktop users depending on their setup. At least the USB-C port is angled upwards, which is a small but convenient design feature, as it makes it easy to locate and use.

The L5 HE 8K can be customized using Lemokey’s web app, which opens in a browser. As you would expect for a keyboard with Hall effect switches, there are various adjustments for the analog functionality. You can set the actuation distance between 0.10mm and 3.35mm, selectable via a slider offering increments of one hundredth of a millimeter.

You can also toggle Rapid Trigger mode, again via a slider offering the same increments, although the range dynamically changes depending on your actuation distance settings. What’s more, you can also split the trigger and reset distances, allowing you to adjust their sensitivity independently, which not every analog rival to the L5 HE 8K offers.

One of the best aspects of these adjustments – and one few analog keyboard software offer – is the visual indicator, which lets you see exactly where in the switch the actuation point you set is. It also shows the distance of your presses in real time, again to one hundredth of a millimeter, which is very useful for dialling in your preferred settings.

There’s also a bar that moves in tandem with your presses, and changes color to indicate when the key reaches the actuation point. This also allows you to see how your Rapid Trigger settings play out too, although unfortunately there’s no real-time millimeter readout for this.

Other analog adjustments include configuring up to four inputs for a single key, triggered depending on how far you press, and setting the Snap Action, with two options to choose from: Snap Click and Last Key Priority. These, along with controller emulation, amount to a large number of tweaks – more than many other analog keyboards offer.

The web app also offers common customization options too, such as key remapping (with plenty of system shortcuts available), macro creation, three profile slots and RGB lighting tweaks.

The web app isn’t without its issues, though. No doubt there’ll be some gamers who’d prefer a standalone app rather than having to open a browser tab. Also, there were occasions where certain settings failed to work as intended, with minor freezes and lock-ups, and certain text and UI elements failed to render properly. Thankfully, many of these were easy to remedy, and for the most part the web app runs well enough without causing too much frustration or major issues.

Design & features: 3 / 5

Lemokey L5 HE 8K review: performance

• Clicky and responsive switches
• So many analog adjustments
• Not the smoothest action

When gaming, the L5 HE 8K performs reasonably well. The 8K polling rate is sure to peak serious gamers’ interests, as it claims to provide next to no latency, and is a common spec found on the best gaming mouse contenders.

However, I struggled to notice much of an improvement over other gaming keyboards with lower polling rates, but hardcore gamers may well do. But unless you’re on the esport circuit, you’ll likely not require this polling rate boost in a keyboard.

The Hall effect switches are clicky with minimal dampening, which may deter certain gamers and please others. While I generally prefer a more cushioned press, I found them satisfying to use for the most part, if not as smooth as other magnetic switches I’ve experienced. There’s a small amount of resistance to presses – just enough to make hitting predefined actuation points relatively easy – but they rebound very quickly, which was something I liked as it allowed for faster taps.

The gamepad emulation works reasonably well, although the analog gradation isn’t as precise as the best PC controllers; it can be a little jerky at times, no matter how you alter the curve profile. Also, the switches could do with more resistance to provide better feedback and in turn make it easier to control in-game movements, especially those of vehicles.

Typing with the L5 HE 8K is pleasant enough, and it performs better on this front than some other gaming keyboards I’ve used. The concave nature of the key layout is more amenable to typing than I expected, even without wrist support, and that springy rebound helps with speed. It isn’t the quietest around, though, with the space bar being especially noisy.

Speaking of the space bar, its elevated seating and backwards tilt (along with all bottom row keys) meant I regularly hit its edge with my thumb rather than the top, which is less satisfying and more awkward. Some may prefer this positioning, but others will fall into the same camp as me.

Performance: 3.5 / 5

Should I buy the Lemokey L5 HE 8K?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Lemokey L5 HE 8K: Also consider

How I tested the Lemokey L5 HE 8K

• Tested for several days
• Used for gaming and productivity
• Plentiful keyboard reviewing experience

I tested the Lemokey L5 HE 8K for several days, during which time I used it for gaming, working, and general browsing.

I used it to play Counter-Strike 2, a great test for peripherals as it demands quick and precise movements, and helps to expose any issues with lag that they may suffer from.

I have reviewed many keyboards before, and have been PC gaming for over a decade. I have owned and used a great deal of keyboards in that time, spanning various brands, switch types, and price points.

• First reviewed January 2025
• Read more about how we test

Gamakay TK75 V2: one-minute review

The Gamakay TK75 V2 is a wireless mechanical keyboard that's designed to match the performance of more expensive rivals while being more affordable.

It adopts a retro-modern aesthetic, with a thick, squared-off chassis harking back to more traditional mechanical keyboard designs. However, its pristine white base, combined with some choice colors for certain keys, helps to make the TK75 V2 more appealing, and the RGB lighting adds vibrancy, too.

The TK75 V2 is well built, with every panel of the unit feeling solid to the touch. The PBT keycaps are especially premium, sporting a super-smooth texture, rivaling those adorning the best keyboards.

Many keyboards of this depth usually include a wrist-rest; unfortunately, this isn't the case with the TK75 V2. However, I found it perfectly comfortable to use without one (and I nearly always use one). This is largely thanks to the two-stage feet and the forward tilt of the keys themselves.

The layout is fairly compact, yet the keys are still easy to hit accurately, and Gamakay has managed to squeeze in a volume wheel and a small TFT screen.

This can display information such as battery life and CPU temperatures, and there’s a section for adjusting the RGB lighting. There's a timer, too, which shows how long you’ve been using the TK75 V2 for, which is useful for those who like to keep track of such stats. Note that the screen is quite small and the resolution isn’t the sharpest; but many others don’t fare much better.

Gamakay also provides software to customize the TK75 V2. This offers a pleasing number of rebinding options, with multiple layers that can be switched between using Fn shortcuts. Speaking of which, the stock Fn shortcuts on the TK75 V2 are surprisingly numerous, making it a versatile keyboard.

The software isn’t perfect, though, and it can suffer from slow loading times (unusual for peripheral software) and it did crash once during my time with it. It also lacks some of the more advanced features and functions that gamers would welcome, such as Easy-Shift.

The most positive aspect about the TK75 V2 is the typing performance. The ultra-damped tactile switches in my unit were an absolute joy to use, being super satisfying yet extremely quiet – perhaps the quietest I’ve ever used. For gaming it was similarly adroit, and the switches proved responsive enough for fast inputs.

The connectivity options of the TK75 V2 are impressive as well, with Bluetooth and 2.4GHz options available. With the former, you can hot-switch between three devices using Fn shortcuts. There’s also a wired connection, although the USB port doesn’t appear to offer the most robust physical connection; even so, I didn’t experience any dropouts with it.

The battery life of the TK75 V2 seems reasonable, since it dipped only one bar out of five following a full day of varied use and connectivity modes. However, charging it seemed unduly slow, as it failed to reach full capacity after more than five hours; it’s possible this is something that can be fixed in a firmware update, however.

The TK75 V2 offers a lot for the money: mechanical switches, good build quality, customization software, and multiple wireless connectivity options. Best of all, performance is great.

However, there are even cheaper alternatives available that offer great performance. For instance, the Roccat Magma is great for gaming, and the Keychron C3 Pro offers mechanical switches at a seriously low price. All things considered, though, the TK75 V2 does enough to earn its place alongside the big names in the space.

Gamakay TK75 V2 review: price and availability

• $89.99 / £75 / $AU148
• Available now with two switch types
• Great value for the spec

The Gamakay TK75 V2 costs $89.99 / £75 / $AU148 and is available now, configurable with either Pegasus (tactile) or Phoenix (linear) switches as stock (although this isn’t permanent, as the board is hot-swappable). It comes with a braided USB-C cable, keycap puller, and spare case screws.

For a wireless mechanical keyboard with numerous wireless connectivity options, the TK75 V2 represents good value. However, if you want an even cheaper mechanical keyboard, the Keychron C3 Pro is one of the best. We found this board’s switches tactile yet relatively quiet, and you can customize it via QMK or VIA; however, this doesn’t offer the level of tweakability that gamers hanker for.

If you want the best gaming keyboard while keeping cost down, then the Roccat Magma is a great alternative. It doesn’t have mechanical switches; but despite this, we still found it delivered a good feel, and offered useful customization options, too.

Value: 4.5 / 5

Gamakay TK75 V2 review: specs

Gamakay TK75 V2 review: design and features