As a gamer, one of the most important components of your setup is the keyboard. A good gaming keyboard can make a huge difference in your gaming experience, and one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a keyboard is the switches. The switches are the mechanism inside the keyboard that register when a key is pressed, and they can have a big impact on the feel and performance of the keyboard.
When looking for the best switches for a gaming keyboard, there are several key points to consider. First, you need to decide whether you want tactile or linear switches. Tactile switches provide tactile feedback when a key is pressed, while linear switches have a smoother, more consistent feel. Next, you should consider the actuation force of the switches. This is the amount of force required to register a key press, and it can vary from switch to switch. You should also think about the travel distance of the switches, which is how far the key needs to be pressed before it registers. Other factors to consider include the durability of the switches and the level of noise they produce.
Overall, the best switches for a gaming keyboard will depend on your personal preferences and play style. Some gamers prefer tactile switches for the added feedback, while others prefer linear switches for their smoothness. It's important to try out different types of switches and find the one that feels the most comfortable and responsive for you.
10 Best Switches For Gaming Keyboard
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1. Razer's Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard Features Fast Linear Optical Switches, Chroma Rgb Lighting, Pbt Keycaps, Onboard Memory, And Comes In A Sleek Mercury White Design.
The Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard is a high-performance gaming keyboard that boasts a range of features designed to provide an exceptional gaming experience. Featuring Razer Linear Optical switch technology, this keyboard is faster than traditional mechanical switches, registering key presses at the speed of light, with a 15-30% shorter actuation distance than other linear switches at 1.0 mm.
The Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard also features Razer Chroma RGB lighting, which allows for ultimate personalization and gaming immersion. The keyboard fully syncs with popular games, Razer hardware, Philips Hue, and gear from over 30 partners, and supports 16.8 million colors on individually backlit keys. This feature allows gamers to customize their keyboard to their liking, creating a unique and personalized gaming experience.
Quality construction is also an important feature of the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard. The keyboard is covered with a matte, aluminum top frame for increased structural integrity, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions. Additionally, the keyboard features oil-resistant doubleshot PBT keycaps, which are made of textured, high-grade PBT for a more durable and textured finish that is less prone to long-term grime buildup.
Fully programmable macros are also a key feature of the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard. The keyboard's Razer Hypershift technology allows for all keys and keypress combinations to be remapped to execute complex commands, giving gamers the ability to customize their macros to their individual needs. Onboard lighting presets provide further customization options, allowing gamers to create unique lighting effects that match their gameplay.
In summary, the Razer Huntsman Mini 60% Gaming Keyboard is a high-performance keyboard that is designed to provide an exceptional gaming experience. Featuring Razer Linear Optical switch technology, Razer Chroma RGB lighting, quality construction, oil-resistant doubleshot PBT keycaps, and fully programmable macros, this keyboard is the perfect choice for gamers who demand the best.
2. Razer Huntsman Elite Gaming Keyboard: Fast Optical Switches, Chroma Rgb Lighting, Magnetic Wrist Rest, Media Keys & Dial – Classic Black
The Razer Huntsman Elite Gaming Keyboard is a powerful tool for gamers who demand the best performance from their equipment. This keyboard features fast optical switches that use light-based actuation, allowing for key presses to be registered at the speed of light. With an actuation distance of only 1.5 millimeters, these switches are 30% shorter than other clicky switches, providing a satisfying clicky feedback that is perfect for gaming.
In addition to its advanced switches, the Razer Huntsman Elite Gaming Keyboard also features Razer Chroma RGB lighting, which fully syncs with popular games, Razer hardware, Philips Hue, and gear from over 30 partners. With support for 16.8 million colors on individually backlit keys, this keyboard offers a level of personalization and immersion that is unmatched by any other gaming keyboard on the market.
The Razer Huntsman Elite Gaming Keyboard is also built to last. It is covered with a matte aluminum top frame, providing increased structural integrity and a premium feel. Its keycaps are made of regular ABS, ensuring that they can withstand even the most intense gaming sessions.
To maximize comfort over extended gaming sessions, the Razer Huntsman Elite Gaming Keyboard comes with an ergonomic, magnetic wrist rest made of plush leatherette. This wrist rest also features built-in underglow lighting, adding an extra level of style to this already sleek and modern keyboard.
The Razer Huntsman Elite Gaming Keyboard is also fully programmable, with support for Razer Hypershift, which allows for all keys and keypress combinations to be remapped to execute complex commands. This feature is ideal for gamers who want to customize their keyboard to suit their unique playstyle.
Finally, the Razer Huntsman Elite Gaming Keyboard is built to last, with support for up to 100 million clicks and a two-year manufacturer warranty. This durability is double the lifespan of most competitor keyboards, making this keyboard a smart investment for serious gamers who demand the best performance and reliability from their equipment.
3. Logitech G915 Tkl Lightspeed Rgb Mechanical Gaming Keyboard With Low Profile Switches, Wireless And Bluetooth Connectivity, And Tactile Feedback.
The Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a wireless gaming keyboard that provides pro-grade performance with flexibility and freedom from cords. Based on independent aggregated sales data from February 2019 to February 2020, this brand is a leader in Wireless Gaming Gear, including keyboards, mice, and PC headsets in the US, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Indonesia, Germany, France, Russia, the UK, Sweden, and Turkey.
With Lightspeed wireless technology, this keyboard delivers a clean aesthetic for battle stations and creates a clean, cord-free workspace. It provides up to 40 hours of continuous use on a single full charge, giving gamers the freedom to focus on their gameplay without worrying about battery life.
The G915 TKL's Lightsync technology provides RGB lighting that synchronizes lighting with any content. It allows gamers to personalize each key or create custom animations from about 16.8M colors with Logitech G HUB software. This feature enables gamers to create the perfect gaming environment and immerse themselves in the game.
Low Profile mechanical switches offer the speed, accuracy, and performance of a mechanical switch at half the height. The GL Clicky switch features a distinctive sound and tactile feedback. The keyboard comes in three options: GL Tactile, GL Linear, or GL Clicky. Gamers can choose the switch that best suits their gaming style.
The tenkeyless design provides more room for mouse movement, making it easier to move the mouse around the desk. The USB receiver can be stored in the back of the keyboard for additional portability.
Crafted with aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, the G915 TKL delivers an incredibly thin but rigid and durable design. This keyboard is beautifully crafted and built to last.
The G915 TKL provides up to 40 hours of game time on a single charge. The keyboard battery LED warns of low battery at 15%, and a pop-up notification in the Logitech G HUB software alerts gamers when the battery is running low. The keyboard can be quickly recharged in just three hours.
Dedicated media controls with a precision-engineered, edgeless volume wheel provide convenient and easy control to quickly play, pause, skip, or mute media. Gamers can connect to multiple devices using Lightspeed or Bluetooth and toggle between high-performance Lightspeed wireless via USB receiver and Bluetooth quickly and easily.
In summary, the Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a wireless gaming keyboard that delivers pro-grade performance with flexibility and freedom from cords. It provides RGB lighting that synchronizes lighting with any content, a low profile mechanical switch, and up to 40 hours of game time on a single charge. This keyboard is beautifully crafted and built to last, providing gamers with the perfect gaming environment.
4. Razer Deathstalker V2 Pro Tkl: Low-Profile Linear Red Switches, Hyperspeed Wireless & Bluetooth 5.0, Chroma Rgb, Durable Coated Keycaps, 50 Hr Battery.
The Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro TKL Wireless Gaming Keyboard is the ultimate gaming keyboard designed for serious gamers. It features low-profile linear optical switches that allow for quicker keystrokes, with a shorter actuation height for reduced key travel. These switches have a 70-million keystroke lifespan for long-lasting performance.
This keyboard offers top-class connectivity with Razer HyperSpeed Wireless (2.4GHz) connection, providing a lag-free gaming experience with instant response time. Alternatively, it also offers Bluetooth 5.0, allowing users to toggle between three devices for added functionality. This keyboard is perfect for gamers who need to switch between multiple devices quickly.
The Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro TKL Wireless Gaming Keyboard has an ultra-long 50-hour battery life, allowing gamers to power through an entire day of gaming without worrying about running out of battery. It also includes a detachable Type-C cable for continued use while charging, ensuring that gamers can keep playing without interruption.
The keyboard’s slim profile ensures neutral hand positioning for long hours of use with little strain. Its aluminum alloy top plate provides greater durability with a satisfying heft, making this keyboard a reliable choice for gamers who demand high-quality products. The laser-etched keycaps with HyperGuard coating provide greater protection against wear and tear compared to regular keycaps, ensuring that the keyboard looks and feels great even after years of use.
The Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro TKL Wireless Gaming Keyboard also features a multi-function roller and media button, allowing users to configure them to pause, play, skip and tweak everything from brightness to volume. This keyboard is the ultimate gaming accessory, perfect for gamers who need a reliable and high-performing keyboard that is built to last. With its low-profile optical switches, top-class connectivity, and ultra-long battery life, the Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro TKL Wireless Gaming Keyboard is the perfect choice for gamers who demand the best.
5. Razer Blackwidow V3 Mini Hyperspeed 65% Wireless Gaming Keyboard With Green Mechanical Switches, Doubleshot Abs Keycaps, And 200hrs Battery Life.
The Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini HyperSpeed 65% Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a high-performance keyboard designed for gamers who demand precision and speed. With three modes of connectivity, including Bluetooth, HyperSpeed Wireless, and USB-C, users can choose the most efficient power consumption option for their needs.
The keyboard is equipped with Razer Green Mechanical Switches, providing a tactile and clicky feel with each keystroke. These switches are optimized for gaming, ensuring precise execution with every press. Additionally, the keyboard features full-height keys, maintaining a classic gaming experience.
The Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini HyperSpeed 65% Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard has doubleshot ABS keycaps, molded with a process that ensures the labeling never wears off. The keycaps also have extra-thick walls, making them extremely durable and able to withstand prolonged, repeated use.
Users can enjoy uninterrupted use of the keyboard with up to 200 hours of battery life, whether in Razer HyperSpeed Wireless or Bluetooth mode. Charging the keyboard from zero to full takes just under 5 hours, minimizing downtime.
The keyboard is powered by Razer Chroma RGB, offering 16.8 million colors and a suite of effects. Users can sync the per-key lighting with their battlestation and enjoy greater immersion as it dynamically reacts with over 150 integrated games.
Overall, the Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini HyperSpeed 65% Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a reliable and high-performance gaming keyboard that provides a satisfying and precise gaming experience. Its durable and long-lasting design makes it an ideal choice for gamers who demand the best.
6. Steelseries Apex 7 Tkl Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – Compact, Quiet Linear Switches – Oled Display, Usb Passthrough, Media Controls – Rgb Backlit (Red)
The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Compact Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a high-performance device designed for gamers who want a superior gaming experience. The keyboard features an OLED smart display that acts as an integrated command center for adjusting settings and tracking on the fly information straight from your game, Spotify, Discord, and more.
The device is built with aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, which ensures durability and stability. This means that the keyboard can withstand the test of time and can handle intense gaming sessions without breaking or malfunctioning. The keyboard also features RGB Illumination that provides unmatched customization with 16.8 million colors per key. This feature allows gamers to personalize their device according to their preferences and gaming style.
The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Compact Mechanical Gaming Keyboard comes with a premium magnetic wrist rest that provides full palm support and a comfortable, ergonomic feel. This feature is crucial for gamers who spend long hours playing games as it ensures that they do not experience any discomfort or strain on their wrists.
The keyboard also features USB passthrough and media controls, allowing gamers to connect their peripherals and control their music and videos without having to leave the game. This feature enhances the gaming experience by allowing gamers to stay focused on their game without any distractions.
The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Compact Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is designed with Linear and Quiet switches, which provide a smooth and silent typing experience. This feature is essential for gamers who want to enjoy their games without any noise distractions.
In conclusion, the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL Compact Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is an exceptional device that delivers a superior gaming experience. Its features, including the OLED smart display, aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, RGB Illumination, premium magnetic wrist rest, USB passthrough, media controls, and Linear and Quiet switches, make it a must-have for any serious gamer.
7. Compact Rgb Mechanical Gaming Keyboard With Blue Switches And N-Key Rollover For Pc Gamers.
The Owpkeenthy Wired 60% Percent Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with Blue Switch is a high-performance keyboard that offers a classic 60% compact design, making it an ideal choice for FPS gamers. It features a Clicky Blue Switch that has a small bump on each keystroke and an audible click sound, providing a full mechanical sense and a sense of rhythm that makes the user feel a kind of joy.
The keyboard also features RGB Backlit keys that have 16.8 Million Color combinations, Built-in multiple lighting effects and solid color backlight modes, full color backlight, without the need for drivers. The keyboard comes with PBT Keycaps, which are known for their wear resistance and hardness, making them much better than ABS keycaps. The keycaps are also oil-proof, providing the best typing and gaming experience. The package includes an extra set of Dye-sub keycaps that can be easily changed with the keypuller included in the package.
The Owpkeenthy 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is compatible with Windows/Mac OS/PC and comes with a 59 inches long Type-C Cable. This makes it convenient to use for gaming, typing, or any other task that requires a high-performance keyboard. The ultra-compact design of the keyboard without a numpad leaves more space for mouse movements, making it an excellent choice for gamers who need to move their mouse frequently.
Overall, the Owpkeenthy Wired 60% Percent Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with Blue Switch is an excellent choice for gamers and anyone who needs a high-performance keyboard. The keyboard's compact design, Clicky Blue Switch, RGB Backlit keys, and PBT Keycaps provide an unparalleled gaming and typing experience. The keyboard is also compatible with various operating systems, making it a versatile option for users who need to switch between different devices.
8. Logitech G513 Carbon Lightsync Rgb Mechanical Gaming Keyboard With Gx Red Switches – Linear
The Logitech G513 Carbon LIGHTSYNC RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with GX Red Switches – Linear is a premium keyboard that offers a range of customizable features to enhance the gaming experience. The keyboard allows users to personalize lighting for each individual key, with a spectrum of 16.8 million colors to choose from. This feature can be accessed through the Logitech G Hub, which also allows users to customize lighting effects and enjoy in-game integrations.
The GX Red switch is a traditional mechanical switch that provides a smooth and consistent keystroke. This keyboard is also available in tactile and clicky switch experiences, which can be purchased separately. The smooth and consistent keystroke of the GX Red switch makes it ideal for gamers who require fast and precise movements.
The keyboard comes with a memory foam rest that quickly and fully recovers from pressure, ensuring that every use is as comfortable as the first. The rest provides support for the user's wrists, which can help prevent fatigue and strain during long gaming sessions.
The top case of the Logitech G513 Carbon LIGHTSYNC RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is made from aircraft-grade 5052 aluminum, which is anodized and brushed for a slim, premium design. The aluminum top case also provides rigidity and durability, ensuring that the keyboard can withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions.
The keyboard includes a convenient USB pass-through port, which allows users to easily plug in their mouse, flash drive, or phone for direct data transmission or charging. This feature ensures that users can keep their devices close at hand and ready to use.
The media and lighting controls on the Logitech G513 Carbon LIGHTSYNC RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard are located right at the user's fingertips. The FN-F keys can be used to control volume, play and pause music, skip tracks, mute sound, toggle lighting, and enter game mode. Additionally, users can customize lighting, game mode, and macro programming with the downloadable Logitech G Hub software.
Overall, the Logitech G513 Carbon LIGHTSYNC RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with GX Red Switches – Linear is a top-of-the-line keyboard that offers a range of customizable features to enhance the gaming experience. The keyboard is designed for gamers who require precision, comfort, and durability, and it delivers on all fronts.
Best Switches For Gaming Keyboard FAQs
Are mechanical switches better for gaming than membrane switches?
Mechanical switches are generally considered better for gaming than membrane switches. Mechanical switches have a tactile feel and audible feedback, which allows for more precise and faster keystrokes. They also have a longer lifespan than membrane switches, which can wear out after prolonged use. Additionally, mechanical switches are more customizable, allowing gamers to choose the switch type that best suits their gaming style.
On the other hand, membrane switches are usually quieter and more affordable than mechanical switches. They also require less force to actuate, which can be an advantage for gamers who prefer a lighter touch. However, the lack of tactile feedback can make it harder to determine when a keystroke has been registered.
Overall, while both types of switches can be used for gaming, mechanical switches are generally considered the better option due to their precision, durability, and customizability.
How do different switch types affect gaming performance?
The type of switches used in a gaming keyboard can significantly impact the gaming performance. Mechanical switches are preferred over membrane switches as they have a tactile feedback, shorter actuation point, and a higher polling rate, resulting in quicker response times and reduced input lag. Gaming switches like Cherry MX Red or Black are linear switches with a light actuation force, making them ideal for fast-paced games that require rapid keystrokes. Tactile switches like Cherry MX Brown or Blue provide a tactile bump and an audible click that can be useful for typing but may not be suitable for fast gaming. Hybrid switches like Razer Optical-Mechanical switches combine the benefits of both mechanical and optical switches, providing faster response times and improved durability. In summary, the switch type should be chosen based on personal preference and the type of game being played.
How do factors like actuation force and travel distance impact switch selection for gaming keyboards?
Factors like actuation force and travel distance have a significant impact on switch selection for gaming keyboards. Actuation force refers to the amount of force needed to register a keystroke, and travel distance is the distance that a key travels before registering a keystroke. For gaming keyboards, switches with lower actuation force and shorter travel distance are preferred as they allow for faster and more responsive keystrokes. This is because they require less force to activate, allowing for quicker finger movements, and they also have a shorter distance to travel, reducing the time it takes for the key to register. Additionally, switches with tactile feedback or audible click can provide better feedback and improve typing accuracy. Overall, selecting the right switch type for a gaming keyboard is crucial as it can significantly impact the user's gaming experience.
What are some of the most popular switch brands used in gaming keyboards?
Some of the most popular switch brands used in gaming keyboards include Cherry MX, Kailh, and Razer. Cherry MX switches are known for their durability and tactile feedback, with various options available for different levels of resistance and noise. Kailh switches are similar to Cherry MX switches, but are often less expensive and have a wider range of colors and designs. Razer switches, on the other hand, are designed specifically for Razer keyboards and are known for their fast actuation and responsiveness. Other popular switch brands include Gateron, Outemu, and Logitech Romer-G. Ultimately, the choice of switch brand depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
What are the best types of switches for a gaming keyboard?
The best types of switches for a gaming keyboard are mechanical switches, and within that category, there are several options to consider. Cherry MX switches are a popular choice, with variants like Red, Brown, and Blue offering different levels of tactile feedback and actuation force. Other mechanical switches, like Kailh or Gateron, provide similar options and can often be found at a lower cost.
Switches with a low actuation force, like Cherry MX Red or Kailh Speed Silver, are ideal for gamers who need to execute quick, precise movements. Meanwhile, switches with a tactile bump, like Cherry MX Brown or Kailh Box White, provide a more satisfying typing experience and can help prevent accidental key presses.
Ultimately, the best switch for a gaming keyboard will depend on personal preference and usage. It's important to try out different switches before making a purchase to find the one that works best for you.