EVGA Z20 Review – RTINGS.com
Tested using
Methodology v1.2
Reviewed Apr 07, 2021 at 10:50 am
Latest change: Test bench update Jun 15, 2023 at 04:36 pm
By Samuel Breton, Gregory Vodden, and John Peroramas
9.2
Gaming
0.9
Mobile/Tablet
6.9
Office
7.6
Programming
3.8
Entertainment / HTPC
overview
test results
deals
discussions
Size
Full-size (100%)
Connectivity
Wired
Switch Type
Optical
The EVGA Z20 is an outstanding mechanical gaming keyboard. It has a sturdy-feeling build, acceptable ergonomics, and a detachable wrist rest. It also has exceptionally low latency and an advertised polling rate of 4000Hz. It’s available with either clicky or linear Light Strike LK Optical switches. Some of its additional features include full RGB backlighting, dedicated macro and media keys, a 3.5mm audio port, a USB passthrough, a volume wheel, and a time-of-flight sensor that you can program to perform functions based on your distance from the keyboard. Unfortunately, it has a very aggressive gamer look and prominent branding that some people might find distracting.
Our Verdict
9.2
Gaming
The EVGA Z20 is incredible for gaming. It has a sturdy-feeling build, full RGB backlighting, dedicated macro keys, and acceptable ergonomics with a plush leatherette wrist rest and multiple incline settings.
It also has exceptionally low latency and robust companion software for configuration. The unit we tested has clicky Light Strike LK Optical switches that feel very light, have a short pre-travel, and a small tactile bump to overcome before actuation. If you’d prefer a linear switch without tactile feedback, this keyboard is also available with linear Light Strike LK Optical switches.
Pros
-
Outstandingly low click latency.
-
Great build quality.
-
Full RGB backlighting with individually-backlit keys.
-
Many useful extra features.
Cons
-
Slight wobble on stabilized keys, especially the spacebar.
See our Gaming Recommendations
0.9
Mobile/Tablet
The EVGA Z20 is wired-only and can’t be used with mobile devices.
6.9
Office
The EVGA Z20 is okay for office use. It has acceptable ergonomics with multiple incline settings and a detachable leatherette wrist rest. It’s fully compatible with both Windows and macOS, but you can’t install the software on macOS. The build feels sturdy, and the clicky Light Strike LK Optical switches feel very responsive and have good tactile feedback.
That said, you may make more typos as the keys have a very short pre-travel and take only a light force to actuate. Also, the switches make a fair amount of noise that may bother those around you. However, it’s also available with linear Light Strike LK Optical switches, which we expect to be quieter.
Pros
-
Very good typing quality.
-
Great build quality.
-
Many useful extra features.
Cons
-
Slight wobble on stabilized keys, especially the spacebar.
See our Office Recommendations
7.
6
Programming
The EVGA Z20 is very good for programming. It feels solidly built, has multiple incline settings, and comes with a detachable plush leatherette wrist rest, so you’re unlikely to experience fatigue during long programming sessions. It also has full RGB backlighting, all keys are macro-programmable, and there are an additional five dedicated macro keys. The clicky Light Strike LK Optical switches we tested provide a great typing quality and feel very responsive. However, you may find yourself making more typos than usual as the pre-travel is short, and only a light amount of force is required to actuate keys.
Pros
-
Very good typing quality.
-
Great build quality.
-
Full RGB backlighting with individually-backlit keys.
-
Many useful extra features.
Cons
-
Slight wobble on stabilized keys, especially the spacebar.
See our Programming Recommendations
3.8
Entertainment / HTPC
The EVGA Z20 isn’t suitable for home theater PC setups. It’s a wired-only keyboard, so you’ll need to sit within cable distance, and it doesn’t have a trackpad, so you’ll likely need to use a mouse to navigate menus. That said, it does have full RGB backlighting, dedicated media keys, a volume wheel, and robust software for customization.
Cons
-
Wired-only.
-
No trackpad.
-
9.2
Gaming
-
0.9
Mobile/Tablet
-
6.
9Office
-
7.6
Programming
-
3.8
Entertainment / HTPC
9+ Create your own
-
Updated Jun 15, 2023:
We’ve converted this review to Test Bench 1.2. This update introduces new Backlight Features and Backlight Clarity test boxes. We’ve also added a new Switches test box, added additional test comparisons to our Hardware Customizability test box that we introduced with our last Test Bench. For an in-depth look at our changes, you can see our full changelog here.
-
Updated May 26, 2023:
We’ve converted this review to Test Bench 1.1. This update adds several new tests addressing Hardware Customization, Macro Keys And Programming, and Wireless Mobile Compatibility. We’ve also added new objective evaluations to the Typing Noise test, and we’ve simplified several tests and removed several others that were no longer relevant. For an in-depth look at all our changes, you can see our full changelog here. -
Updated Apr 07, 2021:
Review published. -
Updated Apr 01, 2021:
Early access published.
For an in-depth look at our changes, you can see our full changelog here.
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Differences Between Sizes And Variants
We tested the EVGA Z20 in black with clicky Light Strike LK Optical switches, and it’s also available with linear Light Strike LK Optical switches.
While not a variant, the EVGA Z15 is a very similar keyboard with nearly identical performance. It lacks several of the extra features of the Z20 keyboard and has a downgraded wrist rest, but it’s hot-swappable, meaning you can easily change switch types without soldering. You can see our unit’s label here.
Compared To Other Keyboards
EVGA may be new to the peripheral market, but the EVGA Z20 has remarkable performance. Visually, it has a very gamer-forward design that may not be for everyone. However, its notable performance and features, including an advertised 4kHz polling rate and a novel time-of-flight sensor, garner it a spot alongside some of the high-end gaming keyboards currently available. This keyboard may be a good option if you’re a serious gamer looking for exceptionally low latency and you’re a fan of more aggressive gamer aesthetics.
For other options, see our recommendations for the best gaming keyboards, the best mechanical keyboards, or the best RGB keyboards.
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The EVGA Z15 and the EVGA Z20 are both fantastic wired gaming keyboards with very similar designs, but there are a few differences. The Z20 has dedicated macro keys, a USB and audio passthrough, and a unique time-of-flight sensor that you can program to perform certain functions when you approach or move away from your keyboard. It’s available with linear or clicky Light Strike LK Optical switches. On the other hand, the Z15 is a hot-swappable board that lets you easily swap out the switches without needing to solder anything. It’s also available with clicky Kailh Speed Bronze and linear Speed Silver switches.
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The Corsair K100 RGB and the EVGA Z20 are remarkable mechanical gaming keyboards offering similar performance and feature sets, but the Corsair is a marginally better keyboard overall. The Corsair has a sturdier-feeling build, PBT keycaps, software that’s compatible with Windows and macOS, and slightly lower latency, though the difference is unlikely to be noticeable.
It’s available with either Cherry MX Speed switches or Corsair’s linear OPX Optical switches. The EVGA is available with either clicky or Light Strike LK Optical switches. It also has a time-of-flight sensor that you can configure to perform certain functions when you approach or move away from your keyboard. Unfortunately, it has ABS keycaps that are prone to developing shine from finger oils.
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The SteelSeries Apex Pro and the EVGA Z20 are remarkable mechanical gaming keyboards that offer similar performance but have notable features that differentiate the two. The SteelSeries has unique linear OmniPoint switches that let you adjust the amount of pre-travel distance required to input a keystroke. It also has better companion software that’s compatible with both Windows and macOS. The EVGA has better latency and a time-of-flight sensor that you can program to perform certain functions as you physically approach or move away from your keyboard. It’s available with either clicky or linear Light Strike LK Optical switches.
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The Razer BlackWidow Elite and the EVGA Z20 are outstanding wired gaming keyboards with comparable performance but several differences in feature sets and available switch types. The Razer has a volume control knob, and while it doesn’t have dedicated macro keys, all of its keys are macro-programmable. It’s available with tactile Razer Orange, clicky Razer Green, or linear Razer Yellow switches. On the other hand, the EVGA has five dedicated macro keys, a volume wheel, and a time-of-flight sensor that you can program to perform functions based on your proximity to the keyboard. It’s available with either linear or clicky Light Strike LK Optical switches.
Test Results
Sort Category───────────RATINGSGamingMobile/TabletOfficeProgrammingEntertainment / HTPC
Category AllDesignTyping ExperienceSoftware and Operating System
Design
Size
Full-size (100%)
Height
1.
5″ (3.8 cm)
Width
18.6″ (47.3 cm)
Depth
6.0″ (15.2 cm)
Depth With Wrist Rest
8.8″ (22.4 cm)
Weight
2.25 lbs (1.020 kg)
Keycap Material
ABS
The EVGA Z20 feels very well-built. It has a plastic body with RGB zones on either side and a brushed metal base plate that’s very sturdy and exhibits almost no flex. The dedicated macro keys and the WASD keys have keycaps with textured surfaces and extra RGB highlights, though there are replacements included for each of these keys without texture or additional RGB if you prefer. The keycaps are doubleshot ABS, which tends to make printed legends more durable but makes keycaps more prone to developing shine from finger oils. The stabilizers are okay, but the larger keys suffer from a slight wobble and somewhat uneven travel. The keyboard’s feet are ordinary but feel grippy enough to prevent slipping, and they don’t collapse if you nudge the keyboard forward.
Curved/Angled
No
Split Keyboard
No
Key Alignment
Staggered
Minimum Incline
4°
Medium Incline
7°
Maximum Incline
10°
Home Row Height
30.7 mm (1.2″)
The EVGA Z20 has a straight design with acceptable ergonomics. It has a slight incline by default, the keycaps have curved profiles, and there are two additional incline settings. There’s also a plush leatherette wrist rest included that you can attach magnetically to the bottom of the keyboard for added support.
Replaceable Cherry Stabilizers
No
Stabilizer Fixation
Non-Customizable Design
Spacebar Stabilizer Size
6.
25u
Size Of Right Mod Keys
1.25u
Hot-Swappable Switches
No
Switch Stem Shape
Cherry MX Style
Switch PCB Socket
Non-Customizable Design
North-Facing Cherry MX Interference
Yes
Backlighting
Yes
RGB
Yes
Per-Key Backlighting
Yes
Effects
Yes
Software Controllable
Yes
The EVGA Z20 has strips of RGB along either side and full RGB backlighting with individually-lit keys. The lighting is fully customizable using the companion software, and it has great color mixing overall.
When displaying white-only lighting, a slightly pinkish hue is noticeable along the sides of the WASD keys where the keycaps have extra etching on them.
Connectivity
Wired
Detachable
No
Length
6.7 ft (2.0 m)
Connector (Keyboard side)
Not Detachable
The EVGA Z20 has a very thick, braided cable that retains kinks. The cable has one USB connector for the keyboard itself, plus additional USB and AUX cable connectors for the USB and the audio passthroughs, respectively.
Bluetooth
No
Bluetooth Multi-Device Pairing
No
Proprietary Receiver
No
Battery Type
No Batteries
The EVGA Z20 can’t be used wirelessly.
Dedicated Macro Keys Count
5
Onboard Macro Programming
No
Macro Programming With Software
Yes
Media Keys
Dedicated
Trackpad / Trackball
No
Scroll Wheel
Yes
Control Knob
No
USB Passthrough
Yes
Numpad
Yes
Windows Key Lock
Yes
Lock Indicator
Caps, Scroll & Num lock
The EVGA Z20 has a range of extra features, including dedicated macro keys, dedicated media keys, a volume wheel, a time-of-flight (ToF) sensor, and both a 3.
5mm audio port and a USB passthrough. The ToF sensor is a small proximity sensor at the bottom of the keyboard that you can program to change lighting effects, lock/unlock or sleep/wake up your computer when you approach or move away from your keyboard. You can modify the sensor’s range and functionality using the companion software.
- EVGA Z20 keyboard
- Wrist rest
- Keycap puller
- Non-textured set of WASD and macro keys
- Quick Start guide
Typing Experience
Switch Name
Light Strike LK Optical
Switch Type
Optical
Feel
Clicky
Operating Force
49 gf
Actuation Force
35 gf
Pre-Travel
1.5 mm
Total Travel
3.
4 mm
The EVGA Z20 we tested has clicky Light Strike LK Optical switches, which feel very light and responsive and have a small tactile bump. It’s also available with linear Light Strike LK Optical switches, which don’t provide tactile feedback, but we expect them to feel even more responsive.
The EVGA Z20 has very good typing quality. The keycaps are made of ABS plastic and feel good to type on, but they’re prone to showing oil marks from fingers. The version we tested has clicky Light Strike LK Optical switches that feel very light and responsive and have a small tactile bump for feedback. That said, you may find yourself accidentally making more typos due to the short pre-travel distance and light amount of force required to actuate keys; some gamers may prefer this high level of responsiveness. Some of the larger keys also wobble slightly if your fingers don’t quite land in the right spots, especially on the spacebar. However, it’s very slight, and many people may not even notice.
Average Loudness
58.4 dBA
High Pitch Clicks
Yes
The EVGA Z20 is quite loud and may bother those around you. The unit we tested has clicky Light Strike LK Optical switches, but it’s also available with linear Light Strike LK Optical switches, which we expect to be somewhat quieter.
Latency Wired
1.1 ms
Latency Receiver
N/A
Latency Bluetooth
N/A
The EVGA Z20 has exceptionally low latency, and you can set the polling rate to either 1000Hz, 2000Hz, or 4000Hz using the companion software. We kept the polling rate to the maximum of 4000Hz for our tests, and we’re confident this should only impact the latency test. While we didn’t test the lower polling rates, we expect only marginally higher latency results from doing so.
Software and Operating System
Software Name
EVGA Unleash RGB
Software Windows Compatible
Yes
Software macOS Compatible
No
Onboard Memory
Yes
Profiles
6+
The EVGA Z20 keyboard has companion software that allows for a wide range of customization.
While setting macros and programming RGB lighting isn’t too difficult, the software can be a little clunky and lacks polish in some areas.
Windows
Fully Compatible
macOS
Fully Compatible
Linux (Ubuntu 22)
Fully Compatible
Media Key Compatibility
Windows, MacOS & Linux
The companion software isn’t compatible with macOS or Linux, and the Pause/Break and Scroll Lock keys don’t work on macOS.
Android
Not Compatible
iOS
Not Compatible
iPadOS
Not Compatible
Media Key Compatibility
Not Compatible
Mountain Everest 60 gaming keyboard review
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(Image: © Future)
Our Verdict
Mountain has taken all it’s learnt from its first keyboards and created the best-feeling, most usable 60% gaming keyboard I’ve ever used. It’s solid, reliable, responsive, and offers the best typing experience around. It’s also good-looking and surprisingly expandable with the numpad accessory, alternative switches, and PBT keycaps.
For
- Great typing feel
- Reassuringly robust
- Responsive
- Optional modular numpad is great
Against
- Base Camp software remains a minor weak point
- Overall package gets expensive
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I don’t like 60% keyboards. That’s the sort of admission so early in a review of a new 60% keyboard that might have you questioning my suitability for said review.
Plus I’m aware you will have already seen the high score, the award badge, and may now be finding this whole opening spiel somewhat ludicrous. But while every other 60% keyboard I’ve ever used has been admittedly adorable, they’ve been utterly unsuitable for actual day-to-day use.
The Mountain Everest 60, however, is just as ickle as the competition, just as cute, and has all the enthusiast keyboard extras you could want, but crucially has the total utility to be your daily driver of a keeb.
Previously, a tenkeyless (TKL) board was as small as I would reasonably go for my home setup. And it’s actually been the Mountain Everest Max which has been my go-to keyboard since it first launched nearly 18 months ago. That’s a board which is able to be both a TKL unit and a full-size keyboard thanks to its detachable numpad. That offers the extra space afforded by a small form factor board, as well as the utility of a standard one.
As a newbie company Mountain has come into the crowded enthusiast keyboard market determined to make the best board around, and damned near pulled it off.
The modular nature of the full Max setup, as well as the fact the Core version could be a pure barebones base for your own pick of switches and keycaps, meant it offered everything you could want from a modern gaming keyboard.
Well, not everything, because now every peripheral manufacturer who has ever considered shipping a keyboard is bending over backwards to pack a miniscule 60% board into their lineup. But now, so has Mountain, and it’s bringing its somewhat unique perspective to the tiny keeb market, too.
Everest 60 specs
Size: 60%
Connection: USB Type-C
Switches: Mountain Tactile 55, Linear 45, Linear 45 Speed
Switch type: 3-pin hot swappable
Socket: 3 and 5-pin compatible
Backlight: Per-key RGB
Rollover: NKRO
Polling rate: 1,000Hz
Keycaps: PBT double-shot
Dimensions: 115 x 307.
2 x 46.44mm
Weight: 768g
Warranty: 2 years
Price: $139.99 | £109.99
Mountain isn’t the first to create modular keyboards—Asus even made its own years back—but it’s the first to get it right. Offering a solid, secure fit for the modular components, as well as multiple mounting options, makes the whole setup actually useful and not just some marketing gimmick. On its own, though, the Everest 60 isn’t modular, but there is a dedicated numpad that can be purchased separately, and it’s hot-swappable. Crucially, for me, it will also attach to either side of the board.
If you’re still rocking a numpad on the right-hand side of your gaming keyboard then you’re just plain doing it wrong. The key benefit of a smaller keeb is that your mouse and WSAD hands are closer together, and switching the numpad to the left means you still get to use the extra buttons and the extra desktop real estate for your gaming rodent.
And, hell, it’s also way more convenient when thrashing your way through a good spreadsheet, too.
Those benchmark numbers don’t enter themselves, you know.
That extra mouse space is the main reason 60% boards can have a place in gaming, but, at least for me, the traditional lack of cursor keys makes them incredibly frustrating to use full-time. Mountain obviously thinks so, too, and has squeezed them into the right-hand side of the board, squishing down the right shift key and adding in a del key as well.
The tiny right shift key does take some getting used to, but the addition of the cursor keys makes a huge difference to the overall utility of the Everest 60. But that’s not the only reason I’ve fallen in love with the board, however: this thing just oozes quality.
Image 1 of 2
(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)
Easily the best typing experience I’ve ever had… a real joy to use
The original Everest Max is reassuringly solid, and feels good to type on, especially after I swapped out all the original Cherry MX Red switches it shipped with and installed my own Halo True switches.
But the Everest 60 feels sooo much better. It’s easily the best typing experience I’ve ever had, and is a real joy to use.
The base of the keyboard has a layer of silicone inside it, to add weight and dampen the sound, but then there are also two layers of foam, on either side of the PCB, to again improve the aural experience. Mountain has used genuine Cherry stabilisers on the board, too, but has made sure they’re fitted and lubed properly for the Everest 60 to ensure there’s no rattle on even the broad spacebar.
And I’m impressed with the Mountain mechanical keyboard switches the company is shipping inside the Everest 60 for the first time. Mountain is also selling them separately, in Tactile 55 (denoting the 55cN force needed for actuation), Linear 45, and Linear 45 Speed (which have a shorter travel and actuation point). I’ve been using the Tactile 55 in my sample, and they feel great. Really stable, responsive, and factory lubed so there’s none of the grittiness you can sometimes get from a tactile switch.
Image 1 of 2
(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)
It’s been interesting testing the Everest 60 alongside the new Function MiniTKL from NZXT. They’re both trying to do similar things, striding into the crowded enthusiast keyboard space with new offerings, but it’s clear Mountain has learned a whole lot from its first release, while NZXT is falling down in a few key places that will surely be ironed out if its subsequent keebs.
The Everest 60 package isn’t completely perfect, however. The main thing that lets it down is—as always seems to be the case with peripherals—the software. It’s mostly fine. Mostly. But there are quirks, and the odd little bug I’ve experienced both in early review testing of the Everest 60, and in my time using the Base Camp software day-to-day with the Everest Max.
Thankfully, once you’ve set your preferred RGB lighting layout, and maybe picked a few macros, you can pretty much just ignore it and get on with enjoying the experience of an outstanding gaming keyboard.
Image 1 of 2
(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)
The standard Everest 60 comes with PBT double shot black keycaps, and they’re absolutely fine, but I do have a soft spot for the Aquamarine set that’s now adorning this review sample. That’s just aesthetics, though, and you’ll still be getting the same great feel from the original keycaps.
All this good keeb stuff does come at a price, however. The Everest 60 is $140 (£110) on its own, while the hot swappable numpad is $50 (£35), making the whole package a lot. There are some bundles, packaging the two together, and ones that include the colourful new PBT keycap range, which can make it a bit cheaper. But not by much.
I guess that’s enthusiast keyboards right now, and honestly, there is a feeling of quality to the design and manufacturing of every part of this package—the base, the switches, the numpad, the connections, the keycaps—that makes the pricing almost understandable.
But the modular nature also means you don’t have to go for everything right away.
Pick the base board, then grab a numpad some other time if you find it makes sense for you. And then later on maybe pick a mineral PBT keycap set, or some new switches if you feel the need for a change. Because if there’s one thing I’m confident of, this board will be with you for many, many years to come, it’s certainly earned a place on my desktop.
Mountain Everest 60: Price Comparison
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Mountain Everest 60
Mountain has taken all it’s learnt from its first keyboards and created the best-feeling, most usable 60% gaming keyboard I’ve ever used. It’s solid, reliable, responsive, and offers the best typing experience around. It’s also good-looking and surprisingly expandable with the numpad accessory, alternative switches, and PBT keycaps.
Dave has been gaming since the days of Zaxxon and Lady Bug on the Colecovision, and code books for the Commodore Vic 20 (Death Race 2000!).
He built his first gaming PC at the tender age of 16, and finally finished bug-fixing the Cyrix-based system around a year later. When he dropped it out of the window. He first started writing for Official PlayStation Magazine and Xbox World many decades ago, then moved onto PC Format full-time, then PC Gamer, TechRadar, and T3 among others. Now he’s back, writing about the nightmarish graphics card market, CPUs with more cores than sense, gaming laptops hotter than the sun, and SSDs more capacious than a Cybertruck.
Best Gaming Keyboards of 2023 | TOP-15
The best gaming keyboards will transform your computer desk.
Best
gaming keyboards promise to tighten up the gameplay, as well as speed up the overall
response to commands. They will help you climb to the top of the leaderboard
thanks to high performance and a high level of comfort.
We’ve tested the best keyboards for gaming and other uses, and virtually everyone on our team is a dedicated PC gamer, so we know full well which gaming keyboards are truly worth your hard-earned cash and which ones are best avoided, no matter what you’re playing, which you prefer.
Whether you’re looking for a full-size keyboard with numeric keypad and macro buttons, touchpads and LED backlighting, or the best mini keyboard for tight spaces, this list has a gaming keyboard that’s sure to suit you. Complementing the best gaming PC you’ve ever upgraded with a massive or compact keyboard is doing yourself and your gaming a favor. We will help you move in the right direction.
We’ve also included a pricing widget to help you find the best deals on gaming keyboards you’re interested in in your area. And, if you want to be fully armed, don’t forget to check out our rankings of the best gaming mice as well as the best PC gaming headsets.
Watch
for updates!
1. Razer Huntsman v2 Analog
The best gaming keyboard today.
Interface : Wired | Illumination : Yes | Switches : Analog mechanical.
Pros :
- Customizable key actuation;
- Excellent key feel;
- Very comfortable wrist rest;
Cons :
- Incredibly expensive keyboard;
- Integrated twin cable;
Razer Huntsman v2 Analog, which combines
advanced optical technology with analog mechanical switches,
good enough to deserve ten points from our review.
And this
weighted score.
Razer gaming keyboard delivers the best typing experience without compromising
gaming capabilities, among all the keyboards we tested in
recent months. Very nice tactile feedback and stand for
wrist, which will allow you to play longer. It allows its users to adjust the point
actuation of the key in the range from 1.5 mm to 3.6 mm in steps of 0.1 mm, advantageous
advantage for competitive players. She also boasts double
macros so that you can program two actions on one key,
which will differ in the depth of pressing this key.
B
Finally, I would like to note the most comfortable wrist rest, which
we have ever used as well as a double cable. Concerning
keyboard, it’s expensive, but it’s worth it.
Read the full review of the Razer Huntsman v2 Analog.
2.
Roccat Magma
Best budget gaming keyboard.
Interface : wired | RGB lighting : yes | Switches : membrane.
Pros :
- Fast, precise keys;
- Impressively quiet keystrokes;
Cons:
- There is a certain lack of features;
Roccat Magma is not as reliable as her
more expensive counterparts, but when it comes to budget gaming
keyboards, the manufacturer is forced to make sacrifices. Luckily she kept
surprisingly fast and accurate response.
Vo
During our testing, the membrane gaming keyboard demonstrated
unexpectedly high performance fast and accurate keys. We noted that
all movements and actions remained fast and responsive which is a boon
for multiplayer and competitive games, while all buttons work
very quiet, which opens up the prospect of night sessions for you without being annoying
living side by side with you.
If
Are you a fan of RGB lighting, you will love the translucent keyboard panel
with 5 RGB lighting zones underneath. The best part of the keyboard
the price becomes affordable, which makes Magma the best gaming
keyboard for gamers on a budget.
Disadvantage becomes
limited representation of Roccat in the Russian market.
3.
Corsair K100 Air Wireless
Premium gaming keyboard packed with features.
Interface : wireless | Keyboard backlight : yes | Programmable keys: available.
Pros:
- Very nice print;
- Polling rate 8000 Hz;
- Lots of features;
Cons:
- More expensive than competitors;
- Not the quietest keyboard;
Corsair K100 Air Wireless probably outperforms even the Logitech G915 and
Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro with
in terms of performance and capabilities. It is not suitable for users
who are looking for a compact solution or want to save on gaming peripherals, but in
as a premium product, it will certainly give you great returns
from the money spent.
Despite
on a thin profile, the keyboard is very comfortable to type on; she is much faster
competitors thanks to the polling rate of 8000 Hz, which makes the keyboard a great
choice for esports.
In terms of features, it boasts
multimedia keys, hotkeys and dedicated macro buttons,
as well as the ability to deeply customize a variety of RGB lighting effects
(using iCue software).
What
regarding dry performance, I would like to note the incredibly fast
response even when you’re running “slow” with a 2000Hz polling rate. Connect
this moment with 0.8mm pre-travel, meaning all your keystrokes
will be registered long before the key reaches the chipper.
The low-profile keyboard is incredibly responsive, no matter how simple you are
player or professional gamer.
4. Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro
The best wireless keyboard for gaming.
Interface: HyperSpeed 2.4GHz Bluetooth 5.0 Wired (USB) | Keyboard backlight: yes | Switches: optical.
Pros:
- Sleek, thin profile;
- Short trip distance;
- Very comfortable keyboard;
Cons:
- Expensive keyboard;
Waiting
Razer Fans Come to an End: The First Low-Profile Gaming
The keyboard finally made it to store shelves.
Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro, the first low profile
keyboard in the Razer line, beat the manufacturer
path to the market of this form factor with impressive characteristics, among
which short-stroke (2.8 mm) keys and short actuation (1.2 mm) if
you choose the linear optical version. We can say that this is the best version
everyone’s favorite Logitech G915.
And
while we continue testing this keyboard, we have been really
impressed with the comfort and convenience. In keeping with the best Razer tradition,
it is incredibly reliable and extremely versatile thanks to three options
connections (Bluetooth, USB and 2.4 GHz), buttons
shortcuts to quickly switch between pairing modes and fully
programmable keys.
Low profile
the design is also fun; as well as floating low profile caps
keys that really highlight the customizable Chrome RGB lighting. Finally, it might be one of the best gaming
keyboards today, which is also a pleasure to use to enhance
performance.
Read our full review of the Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro.
5. MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic
Reliable mechanical gaming keyboard with fast response.
Interface : Wired (USB) | Illumination : Yes | Switches : MSI Sonic Blue Mechanical.
Pros:
- Decent construction, useful features;
- Software back to basics;
- High performance;
Cons:
- Full size keyboard doesn’t save space;
- Fast actuation – double-edged sword;
Given
Sea of full-size gaming keyboards, choosing the best one will not be easy. IN
In this situation, the reliability of the MSI Vigor GK71 Sonic cannot be underestimated –
an easy choice if you are looking for a fast keyboard. True to its name, it
designed to be the epitome of speed and therefore suitable for dynamic
games.
She
available in two versions: one with red switches, the other with blue,
at the same time, the version with blue switches came to us for review.
Mechanical
Blue switches require additional actuation force (a little more), but have
short sensing distance – 1.4 mm. This feature can become
double-edged for the user, since you can activate the key by simply
placing a finger on her. However, the switches are fast and incredibly
responsive, as if specially tuned for professional players.
And yet MSI
accompanies his
keyboard with minimalistic software, its value comes down to
several useful features. I would also like to note the unique wheel
volume control with dual functionality, an extremely useful solution, as
and a padded wrist rest that will keep your
long gaming sessions.
6. Corsair K100 RGB
Optical-mechanical gaming keyboard, a must-have.
Interface: wired (USB) | Keyboard backlight: yes | Switches: opto-mechanical.
Pros:
- Maximum possibilities;
- Stable keycaps;
Cons:
- Very expensive;
- iCue Trouble;
Opto-mechanical
The keys are a novelty in the world of mechanical keyboards.
They get durability and
the speed of optical switches with a pleasant tactile response of the mechanics, which
makes hybrid gaming keyboards like this imposing Corsair K100 RGB the best of both worlds.
This
fully equipped gaming keyboard is very fast, durable
and promises a lot of fun to its users. The tests noted: frequency
polling at 4000 Hz, high actuation point and constant keystroke,
the perfect choice for fast-paced gaming. Gaming combination
performance with quick macros can be a great reason to
keyboard purchases by streamers.
Of course
this is not all the features of the keyboard. An abundance of features includes a pass-through
USB port, six dedicated macro keys, multifunctional
iCUE control wheel and epic RGB lighting.
It should be obvious from the number of features that this is not a budget keyboard.
but it fully justifies the price.
Read the full Corsair K100 RGB review.
7. SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023)
The best gaming keyboard for deep customization.
Interface: wired (USB) | Keyboard backlight: yes | Switches: mechanical OmniPoint 2.0.
Pros:
- Incredibly customizable;
- Excellent gaming performance;
- Some nice additions;
Cons:
- Software is a bit buggy;
- Expensive keyboard;
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL may be one of the most versatile and
customizable TKL gaming keyboards on the market. Nevertheless,
it also features fantastic performance with excellent and
an empathetic response that can really help you win.
These
brand new switches, OmniPoint 2.0, are even more impressive
more: they are faster and more reliable, with a response 11 times faster and
10 times faster than predecessors. Add to that custom
actuation from 0.2 mm to 3.8 mm, as well as a double actuation function,
which allows you to set up two tasks for pressing one key.
Vo
during the review we found the gaming keyboard to be very fast and very responsive with its
switches that provide a satisfying mechanical feel,
without being too loud, which already makes the keyboard very valuable for
most users. Add to that specialized features that
not available on most other keyboards and you get a great gaming experience.
peripherals, which, unfortunately, are a little pricey.
Read the full SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (2023) review.
8. Roccat Vulkan TKL Pro
Another great optical gaming keyboard.
Interface : Wired | Illumination : Yes | Programmable keys : Yes.
Pros :
- Works quickly and accurately;
- Efficient yet quiet operation;
Cons :
- Many additional keys take getting used to;
Who needs a full size keyboard when there are
TKL gaming keyboards,
among which is the new Roccat Vulkan TKL Pro? This is a compact game
keyboard, one of the best in terms of performance, comfort and
design.
Crafted in a stylish matte bronze finish with floating
keys that fully reveal customizable RGB backlighting.
Roccat Titan Optical Switches are not only fast and precise, they are comfortable, quiet and very
reliable. During
testing performance was flawless. Throughout the review, we
noted responsive and fast operation, and operation at 1.4 mm of travel means
that you do not have to get used to the course of the keys for a long time. Gamers with light fingers
will appreciate the fact that the keys do not need to be pressed all the way to
log a response.
I
let’s not forget that optical switches are characterized by
long service life. This gaming keyboard is rated for 100
million clicks, combined with a reinforced aircraft-grade aluminum panel, it
will serve you for many years. The keyboard is quite expensive, but worth it
every ruble.
Read the full Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro review.
9. Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless
Best keyboard 60% for gaming.
Interface : Wired (USB), Wireless, Bluetooth | Keyboard backlight: yes | Switches: analog, mechanical.
Pros:
- Excellent performance in all tasks;
- Incredibly customizable;
Cons:
- Expensive keyboard;
For
Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless mini keyboards can certainly
boast a huge amount of personalized customization options. How
and many gaming keyboards 60% on the market, it is expensive. However, for
your money you get a lot of benefits, from features to
performance.
Testing
showed that the claimed battery life of up to 200 hours is completely
justified, albeit depending on the type of connections, a large increase relative to the Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini Hyperspeed,
performance is beyond praise, which proves the ability of the keyboard not
fall behind in fast-paced shooters like Doom Eternal.
And this is not surprising, because we are discussing here the polling rate of 8000 Hz.
What
when it comes to features, you get interchangeable switches, up to 50 built-in
programmable profiles and compatibility with Microsoft and Sony consoles
current generation. This is in addition to the mandatory RGB settings and programming
macros that are usually offered by these mini keyboards. So yes she
expensive, but worth every ruble.
Read the full Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless review.
10. Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed
The best low profile gaming keyboard.
Interface : Wireless | Keyboard backlight : Yes | Program keys : Some;
Pros :
- Surprisingly tactile feedback;
- Amazing printing experience;
- Wireless multi-device connection;
Cons
G915 TKL Lightspeed B It also boasts a large wireless Read the full Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed review. Great compact gaming keyboard with easy upgrade. Interface : wired, wireless 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth | Illumination : Yes | Programmable keys : Yes. Pros: Cons: Asus ROG Azoth lets you immerse yourself in What I, Same Razer Huntsman, only smaller and faster. Interface : Wired | Keyboard backlight : Yes | Program keys : Yes; Pros : Cons : Even The Razer Huntsman V2 TKL is powered by second-generation Razer Optical switches, making all of the company’s keyboards look great, and comes with a handy carry bag. Of course, the keyboard is still wired, but it’s important to reduce latency, because even milliseconds help win a Counter-Strike match. This Read the full review of the Razer Huntsman V2 TKL. The most customizable gaming keyboard ever. Interface: Wired (USB), Wireless, Bluetooth | Keyboard backlight: yes | Switches: adjustable analog mechanical. Pros: Cons: Customizable trigger point and dual task functionality is not something that most gaming keyboards can offer you. Game Completes Read the full SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless review. Easy to modify, full function keyboard. Interface: wired (USB) | Keyboard backlight: yes | Switches: Roccat Titan II Optical Red. Pros: Cons: We Roccat Vulcan II Mini can be small and compact because Of course Compact gaming keyboard at an affordable price. Interface : Wired | Keyboard backlight : Yes | Switches : Mechanical. Pros : Cons : Offer Vo What Read the full HyperX Alloy Origins 60 review. Yes, Whether you love story-driven single player games or competitive online games, the best gaming keyboard will change your gaming experience. The best PC games will sparkle with new colors with the gaming keyboard, you will get much more pleasure from your games. If you want to upgrade to the best gaming keyboard, check out our ranking above. We know gaming keyboards firsthand, having tested many of them ourselves, so you can rely on our judgment to select the keyboard that suits your gaming needs. In addition, we include price comparison widgets to help you find the best price in your city. On If If
Keyboards Disclosure : Some of the links on this site are affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and buy an item, I may earn a commission. However, all opinions are mine. Contents About the Best Budget Gaming Keyboards
If you’re an avid gamer, one of the most enjoyable ways to improve your gaming experience is to use a gaming keyboard. If you’ve never used it before, you should try it now, it’s a big change from classic low profile laptop keys or traditional unbranded keyboards that came with your systems. Among the long list of essential tools, you can’t just ignore gaming keyboards, as they are so much more than just hardware. When playing for a long time, you will definitely need an extra level of comfort with the instrument. Choosing the right keyboard is a vital task, if you don’t do it right you will most likely die – meaning if you don’t do it right you will most likely die in any online multiplayer game. If you have only a little knowledge about games, you know very well how important a good keyboard is, what distinguishes one from the other and what’s on the market lately. With mechanical gaming keyboards, personal preference is just as important as performance. We have summed up 11 best budget gaming keyboards of 2023 you can buy along with a brief description to help you find the keyboard that suits you according to your needs and budget. List of the best budget gaming keyboards of 2023
1) Razer Ornata Chroma –
Revolutionary mecha-membrane gaming keyboard with medium keys – ergonomic design 9 0008 There has been a separation between mechanical and membrane keys for far too long, but now Razer has finally put them together with their “Mecha-Membrane” (the technology it uses) that works as there is a membrane underneath the keys that allows for longer life. The base of the keyboard uses rubber caps, just like the membrane keyboard. It has mid-sized keys between the shape of a big bulky keyboard and Mac chiclets that you don’t seem to need to push the notch too hard. Razer Chroma technology allows you to create 16.8 million color combinations using the included Synapse software. There aren’t a lot of traditional extras like USB pass-through and multimedia dongles, but you definitely won’t feel like you’re missing anything. It’s too nice and easy to use. PROS
CONS
Check out the Razer Ornata Chroma on Amazon 2) Corsair K70 RGB Rapidfire
Based on the experience of the K70 RGB RAPIDFIRE team, the keyboard entered the gaming world as a result of another exclusive deal Corsair made with Cherry’s new mechanical key switch, “RAPIDFIRE”.
lives up to its name, providing the speed needed for the fastest
games.
With a polling rate of 1000 Hz and a travel of 1.5 mm, it can go to
leg with its wired configuration.
review, the keyboard was incredibly fast, responsive, and precise, pressing it
the buttons are really nice. This is due to the fact that the keys require force.
actuation of only 50 grams, and also have a short actuation distance,
so you don’t have to relearn a new keyboard before all your
clicks will be detected.
connectivity, decent battery life, and attractive RGB lighting. The best thing
that this is a great keyboard with low profile floating keys above
brushed aluminium. For travel and confined spaces
The desktop is without a doubt one of the best gaming keyboards out there. 11.
Asus ROG Azoth
the setup is much deeper than most other gaming keyboards. And it’s not
the only feature that makes this keyboard 75% form factor
indispensable if you need a compact option on the table. She keeps the keys
with arrows so you don’t have to use Fn-key combinations
for navigation.
more importantly, the keyboard is very responsive, pleasant to type on and in general
satisfactory in use, regardless of the tasks at hand, as
printing emails or playing shooters. For this comfort bear
responsible ROG NX switches, very fast and by the way, not
too loud, so you can play without annoying anyone.
finally, the stumbling block is that the keyboard is expensive, but it doesn’t even have
dedicated keys for macros.
However, the keys are programmable
built-in OLED display and all this raises the value a little, although it is still
Expensive. 12. Razer Huntsman V2 TKL
if you’re buying one of the best gaming keyboards, it’s almost always difficult
to digest the monstrous price tag, it is even more difficult to digest when she is so
small, like the Razer Huntsman V2 TKL. But the lack of functionality
capabilities, dictated by the short keyboard body, is compensated
speed and reliability. 
We found the keyboard to be outstanding, especially with such high performance and the fact that the keys have wide settings.
The keyboard is a gamer’s dream that fits easily on every desk. 13. SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless
Excluding SteelSeries Apex Pro. One of the latest additions to this series of keyboards is the Mini Wireless, which can offer all of these unique features in a compact, albeit expensive, form factor.
The performance of the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless is beyond question.
Adjustable trigger point (from 3.8mm to 0.2mm) really worked
flawless during testing, as is the double trigger function –
the ability to program two tasks for each key at different points
triggering. And while all this may seem redundant, in fact these
functions are extremely useful and convenient.
list Customizable RGB backlight, very bright, and
also a profile that is thinner and more compact than most competing
mini keyboards. This is definitely one of the best gaming keyboards yet.
ready to spend. 14. Roccat Vulcan II Mini
glad to see established manufacturers leaning into the modification market and the Roccat Vulcan II Mini
is one of Roccat’s new products on the retrofit market.
keyboard user. However, despite the fact that we are happy
replaced keycaps to celebrate the holiday season, much more
we were impressed with the performance and features of the keyboard, nothing
surprising, because the Vulcan series is almost perfect.
presented in a form factor of 65%. On the other hand, she offers everything
essential features including Smart Keys Roccat
and the Easy-Shift function, the latter, in fact,
presents you with a new set of keyboard actions.
And while optical
switches could get a little extra resistance relative to
mechanical counterparts, they are fast and responsive, which makes victories in such
games like Control and Kena: Bridge of Spirits are much easier.
small size, low profile and light weight also make the keyboard comfortable
for traveling. So if you want to play on the go, this game
keyboard is what you need. 15. HyperX Alloy Origins 60
HyperX like Alloy Origins
60 is the best option if you are looking for an affordable yet extremely reliable
mini keyboard.
The manufacturer had to cut a few corners, yes. At the same
time you get a premium build and great performance so
it is worth every ruble.
time of our testing HyperX Red key switches
(linear) were very responsive. We found that their effort
45g actuation and 1.8mm actuation point give you the edge
even when you need to press the same key multiple times in a row.
regarding design and assembly, the keyboard body is made of aviation grade
aluminum, and the keycaps are made of durable plastic. In addition, RGB lighting
supports many settings that will allow you to express
individuality. All this without additional markups, which makes the keyboard
an inexpensive choice for gamers looking for a mini keyboard. Gaming
keyboards are different?
gaming keyboards matter! The best gaming keyboards will not only speed up
your reaction, they are designed with the user’s gaming comfort in mind.
Some
the keyboards are equipped with wrist rests, which will allow you to play longer,
avoiding unnecessary stress on the wrists. If you plan to play for hours, you
you need a comfortable keyboard that will support your hands. What is the best keyboard for gaming?
it really depends on what kind of games you are going to play with the gaming
keyboard.
you play an MMO, the best gaming keyboards have to offer
many options for recording macros and even different profiles for different games.
you prefer esports games, you need a high responsive keyboard
and a 2.4 Hz wireless connection, instead of Bluetooth, or even should
rely on a wired connection for maximum performance. up to $99-199 [selection]
With it, the user is guaranteed a wonderful and smooth gameplay.
services and low-profile typing, but it still has the mechanical parts that give that rough click.
Designed specifically for gaming, this switch combines easy actuation with faster actuation. “The Corsair K70 RGB Rapidfire keyboard is all about speed.”
It has a fairly basic set of 107 keys, although there are a few media buttons in the top right corner, as well as a scroll bar for volume control.
The aluminum bezel makes it strong and heavier than the average keyboard. Visual pleasure combined with crisp and easy typing makes the Rapidfire K70 RGB a sensory delight for users.
PROS
- Flawless build quality
- Sleek, elegant design
- Comfortable wrist rest
- RGB lighting
CONS
- Cherry MX RGB backlight is dim and cannot display white color effectively.
- No USB or audio transmission
Check out Corsaid on Amazon
3) SteelSeries Apex M800
The Apex M800 mechanical switches found on this keyboard stand out from the rest on the market.
It’s a collaboration between SteelSeries and Chinese firm Kailh, and its low-profile design is fast and quiet.
The keys use a square piston and a small spring attached with enough space in the middle to mount the LED. The result is impressively uniform keyboard backlighting and a more compact, smaller design.
Like most high-end gaming keyboards available, the Apex is fully RGB backlit. This means access to 16.7 million colors, LEDs behind each built-in key, and a full range of patterns can be formed, as well as other features available to use.
Apex is still missing some minor and legacy features. The kit does not include a key removal tool, which makes cleaning a little more difficult than others. There are also no special media keys.
PROS
- Quiet, low profile keys
- Provides a consistent and comfortable typing experience.
- RGB lighting.
CONS
- No dedicated multimedia buttons.
- Unmanaged USB ports
- Only plastic throughout
Check SteelSeries on Amazon
4) Cherry MX Board 6.0
Cherry MX Red switches located under the keys give the MX board 6.0 a faster response time than others, but because the keys are quite close together they also great for typing.
Cherry claims to be the fastest keyboard in the world.
It has a brushed aluminum body with a grease resistant coating. Powered by CHERRY RealKey technology, which processes the signal completely analog. A mechanical keyboard that is just as perfect for the office as it is for typing.
PROS
- Mechanical keyboard
- Cherry MX Red Key Switches
- Solid aluminum front panel
- Detachable magnetic wrist rest
- Red light
CONS
- Very expensive feature set
- Some conflicting layouts
- No macro or software to remap keys
- No key repeat interval setting
Check out Cherry Mx Board 6.
0 on Amazon
5) Logitech G810
Considered a minimalistic gaming weapon for gamers.
Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum is a nice RGB backlit mechanical keyboard that will make you feel great when you are facing opponents in Counter-Strike or typing the Great American Novel.
The keys that were included in this set are not their best feature, the Orion Spectrum is an attractive, versatile peripheral with an amazing interface and reasonable extras.
It runs on Logitech Gaming Software, which continues to be one of the leading gaming peripheral control software on the market.
The included software will automatically scan your system for games and create your profiles for them, so all you have to do is choose a color scheme and assign any additional commands to the function keys if you wish.
With smart media keys that work seamlessly in both Windows and OS X.
PROS
- Sleek design
- Excellent performance
- Comfort key set
- Great lighting
CONS
- There are some programming oddities.
- Not the fastest typing option.
Check Logitech at Amazon
6) Zero Division X40
The X40 Pro uses a new proprietary key switch design called Alpha-Zulu that boasts a 1.7mm actuation point that used to be a typical 2mm, which according to Metadot provides enhanced performance in particularly intense gaming situations.
The X40 has thick aluminum panels in its structure, making it one of the most durable and rigid keyboards on the market. The X40 Pro comes in two styles, the main one being Alpha-Zulu switches: linear which is non-tactile and non-clicky, and tactile which is tactile and non-clicky.
The Plastic Keyboard Cover Remover is an optional feature included with this keyboard if you wish to remove and replace any of the covers for cleaning or other purposes.
PROS
- Robust construction.
- Includes USB, audio pass-through.
- Uses full n-key rollover.
- Removable top plate provides unique visual customization.
Vs
- Relatively expensive considering the feature set.
- Limited backlight settings.
- Bulky top plate screws.
Check x40 division on Amazon
7) Coolermaster Storm Quickfire TK.
For those who need a small, compact mechanical keyboard, CM Storm has released the game-focused QuickFire TK that does the job.
CM Storm releases the QuickFire TK, a smaller version of the QuickFire Pro that also fits in your backpack.
The model is also recommended for those who have little desktop space, as it is the most compact of all. Three types of switches are available: Cherry MX Red, Brown or Blue.
This is one of the best mechanical keyboards from Coolermaster today. You have the option to choose both partial and full lighting.
The only thing it lacks is macro recording and key settings, except that this keyboard performs very well in all aspects.
PROS
- Compact size makes it easy to use.
- Three backlight modes and five brightness levels create a pleasing image.
CONS
- The switching options are not easy to understand.
Check Coolmaster Storm on Amazon
8) Tesoro Excalibur G7NL
Let’s take a look at the features and specifications of the Tesoro Excalibur found in the Tesoro which, as expected, has some pretty good features from a keyboard in this range, totally worth it their money.
One thing that’s fairly easy to spot is the lack of Cherry MX switches, Excalibur still uses mechanical switches from Kailh which are cheaper than their Cherry variants used before.
It includes 4 dimmable LED lighting levels. In addition, it has 5 levels of LED key illumination with one key illumination mode.
The switches hold up great when it comes to high velocity play.
Game modes and macro keys do the job.
It is possible to switch between more than two LEDs. With a basic rectangular design and touches that make this a distinct Tesoro keyboard, we feel that sometimes simplicity is better. 9The 0008
Tesoro Excalibur is the keyboard you’ll need, especially if you’re looking for features we’ve seen before, only sleeker than before and in a smart package.
PROS
- Supported macros
- Very cheap and also available to many compared to other
- Minimalist and standard design
CONS
- Build quality is not that great
- No USB pass-through ports
Check out Tesoro on Amazon
9) Razer DeathStalker Ultimate
Whatever its name, it’s designed specifically for gamers. The Switchblade interface, which was recently added, adds a new element to the gameplay, with available game data and macro recording, without interfering with your game.
The DeathStalker Ultimate uses scissor-switch keys – the same style found on the Razer Blade laptop.
DeathStalker Ultimate also uses Razer’s cloud technology and the synchronization tool built into Razer Synapse 2.0. Downloaded for free from the Razer website.
For gamers who want to experiment with the Razer Switchblade interface without paying extra money for a Razer Blade laptop, DeathStalker Ultimate is the best choice.
PROS
- Switchblade (Touchpad)
- Razer Synapse 2.0
- Stylish design
CONS
- For gamers only.
- Not very comfortable typing.
- Very expensive (Most expensive keyboard, very, very.)
Check out the Razer DealStalker on Amazon
10) HyperX Alloy FPS
The HyperX Alloy FPS gaming keyboard has a clear gamer profile – someone who understands the details and values performance, portability and simplicity over feature-packed and customizability.
It has some handy options like USB pass-through and charging, but the lack of customization software means the Alloy FPS won’t appeal to gamers who like to personalize the look and function of each key.
There’s no palm rest, rows of macro keys, or dedicated media controls, so the Alloy FPS leaves no big footprint – giving you plenty of extra space.
It’s about as compact as a full-size multi-pad keyboard. And thanks to the alloy, it, like many other keyboards, supports USB pass-through and has a USB charging port in the upper right corner of the keyboard. Without lighting, this is a normal office keyboard.
Keycaps are black by default. Per-key backlighting is available, but the lighting effects are not as attractive as on other keyboards on the market.
PROS
- Compact size.
- Available.
- No software required. Supports pass-through USB port and has a charging port.
- Optional red textured keycaps are attractive and easy to put on.
CONS
- No macro keys or special media controls.
- Limited color options.
Check HyerpX Alloy XPS on Amazon
11) AULA 2016-S Rainbow
AULA 2016-S Rainbow is best for both gaming and typing, selling at a good price. The rubber feet on the bottom don’t offer much resistance, but the keyboard moves forward under pressure on the wrist rest.
Gameplay and user typing on this keyboard is satisfactory as it sits right in the center of the keyboard.
Has 6 multimedia keys. It has also passed over 30 rigorous reliability tests. It also includes intelligent independent lock, Windows independent lock, and is covered with Advanced waterproof conductive film.
Larger water vents increase the rate at which liquid flows out of the keyboard and ensures that the keyboard performs well in high humidity environments with little water ingress.
You don’t have to worry about accidents with coffee or tea, your keyboard is well protected.
PROS
- Satisfactory customer feedback.
- Easy to use;
CONS
- Does not promote or does not have the latest features available on other keyboards.
Check out ALUA on Amazon
FAQs | Best Budget Gaming Keyboards
👉 Are expensive gaming keyboards worth it?
Gaming keyboards can be worth it if they have the right features, like mechanical switches, N-key rollover, and a wired connection. Most of the extra features that a gaming keyboard provides won’t make you a better gamer, but they can be useful and worth it.
🙋♀️ What’s the best gaming keyboard for less than $100?
Best mechanical gaming keyboard under $100: SteelSeries Apex 5 hybrid mechanical gaming keyboard. … Smaller alternative: Obinslab Anne Pro 2. … Best wireless gaming keyboard under $100: Corsair K63 wireless mechanical gaming keyboard. … Best non-mechanical gaming keyboard under $100: Razer Ornata V2.
🤷♂️ How much should a gaming keyboard cost?
$100 to $150 are generally the best for gaming keyboards. Here you’ll find models like the Corsair Strafe ($110 on Amazon) or the Razer BlackWidow Ultimate 2016 ($110 on Amazon). These keyboards feature mechanical switches, single-color backlighting, and a full set of keys, including a numeric keypad.
🤷♂️ Which is better: Corsair or Razer?
Razer Mice. … So, in terms of functionality, the Razer Naga is perfect, and if you play a lot of MMOs and RPGs, then this is the mouse for you. It even won top pick in our article on the best gaming mice for MMOs, so check it out. If you’re looking for the best FPS mouse, Corsair has the best choice.
Quick Links:
- Best Gaming Mouse Buyer’s Guide [choices under $99]
- Best Ethernet Switches (Under $149) – Best Selling Gigabit Switches
- Top 10 Wireless Routers: A Complete Buyer’s Guide
Final verdict: What’s your favorite best budget gaming keyboard?
And now we wrap up our discussion of the best budget gaming keyboards of 2023 available on the market for avid gamers.