Best Gaming Keyboards in 2025

Choosing the right gaming keyboard hinges more on personal preference than selecting the best mouse or headset. Factors like layout (tenkeyless or full-size), mechanical switches, and extra features all boil down to individual taste. Even with personal preferences in mind, understanding a keyboard's performance characteristics is crucial before investing—they can be pricey! This guide highlights key aspects and my top picks based on extensive experience.

I've tested numerous keyboards, including many recent releases. My recommendations stem from firsthand experience, ensuring I can vouch for each keyboard's performance in competitive gaming and all-day typing. Switch performance, keystroke feel, and additional features (like Razer's Command Dial or SteelSeries' OLED panel) are all considered. Remember, software compatibility is a factor with customizable keyboards, as is the impact of keycap design. This guide aims to help you make an informed decision.

TL;DR: Top Gaming Keyboards:

Given the keyboard variety, I've categorized my recommendations to highlight diverse options from different manufacturers. This allows me to showcase keyboards excelling in specific areas or catering to various needs and preferences. For example, the Cherry MX LP 2.1 excels as a compact 60% keyboard, while the Logitech G515 TKL stands out as a low-profile option. The Redragon K582 Surara offers impressive value for its price.

SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (Gen 3) - Photos

11 Images

1. SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)

Best Overall Gaming Keyboard

Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: 2.4GHz (USB-C dongle), Bluetooth, or wired
• Switch Type: OmniPoint 3.0 Hall Effect (linear)
• Battery Life: Up to 45 hours
• Size / Layout: Full (wired-only) or TKL

PROS: Hall Effect switches are customizable and feel great; OLED control panel works well; Sleek, no-nonsense design with tasteful RGB

CONS: N/A

The SteelSeries Apex Pro consistently impresses, particularly the Apex lineup. The 2024 Gen 3 refresh includes full-sized and tenkeyless models (plus a wireless version). From the OmniPoint 3.0 switches to the OLED control panel, it's near-perfect. The Hall Effect switches are smooth, consistent, and satisfying, with customizable actuation points (0.1mm to 4.0mm). Features like Rapid Tap, Rapid Trigger, and Protection Mode enhance performance (though game compatibility varies). The OLED panel is excellent for controlling media, RGB, actuation points, macros, and profiles. Battery life is decent (45 hours).

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro – Photos

25 Images

2. Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro

Best High-End Gaming Keyboard

Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: USB wired (8000Hz polling rate)
• Switch Type: Razer Orange (tactile), Yellow (linear), Green (clicky)
• Battery Life: N/A
• Size / Layout: Full (with macro keys)

PROS: Razer’s proprietary mechanical switches are fantastic; Macro keys and extra buttons give you full control; Synapse software lets you access the latest tech

CONS: A little on the bulky side in terms of size

Razer's BlackWidow V4 Pro is a top performer with excellent build quality, mechanical switches, and features. The full-sized V4 Pro features a programmable dial and macro keys, plus media controls. Synapse software allows extensive customization. Razer's Orange, Green, and Yellow switches are top-tier, offering a shorter actuation point for quick keystrokes. The 8000Hz polling rate, while not crucial, enhances performance.

3. Redragon K582 Surara

Best Budget Gaming Keyboard

Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: USB wired
• Switch Type: Professional Red (linear)
• Battery Life: N/A
• Size / Layout: Full

PROS: Performs as great as any standard mechanical keyboard; Well-built and can withstand being mishandled

CONS: Somewhat gaudy and off-putting design

The Redragon K582 Surara punches above its weight. Despite using off-brand switches, it performs admirably, offering smooth linear actuation and consistent performance comparable to Cherry MX Reds. Its full-size layout is available, and Redragon also offers TKL and mini models. Its low price point makes it a compelling budget option.

4. Cherry MX LP 2.1

Best Compact (60%) Gaming Keyboard

Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: 2.4GHz (USB dongle), Bluetooth, wired
• Switch Type: Cherry MX Low-Profile Silver (linear, short)
• Battery Life: Up to 60 hours
• Size / Layout: Compact 60%

PROS: Super lightweight complements the compact size; Low-profile keycaps are a nice touch; MX Speed Silver switches feel right

CONS: Cherry software isn’t great; Compact 60% keyboards may not be for everyone

The Cherry MX LP 2.1 is a lightweight and low-profile 60% keyboard. Its compact size saves desk space, though it sacrifices the number pad, function row, and center column. The low-profile keycaps and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches (1.5mm actuation point) provide a smooth, linear feel. Bluetooth connectivity adds versatility.

5. Logitech G Pro X TKL

Best Tenkeyless (75%) Gaming Keyboard

Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: 2.4GHz (USB dongle), Bluetooth, wired
• Switch Type: Logitech Tactile, Clicky, or Linear (proprietary switches)
• Battery Life: Up to 50 hours
• Size / Layout: TKL (75%)

PROS: Extra on-board features rarely seen on TKLs; Logitech switches are fantastic; Sleek and clean design

CONS: N/A

The Logitech G Pro X TKL offers a sleek design, updated mechanical switches, and Lightspeed wireless technology. It retains on-board controls (volume wheel, media controls, mode toggles) despite its compact size. The brushed aluminum top and exposed keycap design enhance its aesthetics. Logitech's proprietary linear switches provide satisfying and consistent keystrokes.

6. Keychron K4

Best 96% Layout Gaming Keyboard

Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: 2.4GHz (USB dongle), Bluetooth, wired
• Switch Type: Gateron Red (linear)
• Battery Life: Up to 40 hours
• Size / Layout: Full (96%)

PROS: Affordable especially with its wireless capabilities; Gateron switches perform admirably; Slim frame leaves a minimal footprint

CONS: Short on extra features and software customization

The Keychron K4 offers a 96% layout, combining full functionality with a smaller footprint. Gateron Red linear switches provide reliable performance. Its minimalist design and Bluetooth connectivity add versatility. The 96% layout requires adapting to mode switching for center column functions.

Corsair K100 RGB Review

14 Images

7. Corsair K100 RGB

Best Full-Sized Gaming Keyboard

Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: USB wired (8000Hz polling rate)
• Switch Type: Cherry MX Speed or Corsair OPX Optical
• Battery Life: N/A
• Size / Layout: Full (with macro keys)

PROS: Robust on-board controls; Solidly built board with optical switches; Uniquely textured feel on keycaps and buttons

CONS: Mediocre software

The Corsair K100 RGB is a premium full-sized keyboard with a brushed aluminum plate, macro keys, media controls, and programmable buttons. It offers a balance of style and functionality. The OPX Optical switches provide a unique feel, and the Cherry MX Speed switches are also a strong option. The 8000Hz polling rate is a high-end feature, though software navigation could be improved.

Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL - Photos

10 Images

8. Logitech G515 TKL

Best Low-Profile Gaming Keyboard

Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: 2.4GHz (USB dongle), Bluetooth, wired
• Switch Type: Logitech Tactile
• Battery Life: Up to 50 hours
• Size / Layout: TKL (75%)

PROS: Slim frame with thin keycaps are nicely designed; Dense, solidly built board; Mechanical switches let it perform on par with normal sized counterparts

CONS: Additional controls on the top bar could be better

The Logitech G515 TKL offers a slim profile with a dense build. Ultra-thin keycaps provide a tactile feel and maintain a sleek look. Logitech's mechanical switches (1.3mm actuation point) complement the low-profile design. While lacking the "thock" of some keyboards, it delivers solid performance. The top bar could benefit from additional controls.

Pulsar Xboard QS - Photos

15 Images

9. Pulsar Xboard QS

Best Wired Gaming Keyboard

Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: USB wired (simultaneous dual-device capable)
• Switch Type: Kailh Box Ice Mint 2 (linear)
• Battery Life: N/A
• Size / Layout: TKL (75%)

PROS: The packaged Kailh Box Ice Mint 2 switches are incredible; Dual connectivity is novel, and useful in some setups; Built like a brick, and stylistically interesting

CONS: It’s quite pricey all things considered, especially for a wired board

The Pulsar Xboard QS boasts strong build quality, a unique aesthetic, and excellent Kailh Box Ice Mint 2 linear switches. Its multi-layer construction and foam dampening contribute to firm, responsive keystrokes. The white and black color scheme is attractive. A programmable volume knob controls RGB lighting. While lacking first-party software, it's easily physically customizable.

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% - Photos

13 Images

10. Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%

Best Customizable Gaming Keyboard

Product Specifications:

• Connectivity: 2.4GHz (USB dongle), HyperPolling (for 4000Hz polling), wired
• Switch Type: Razer Orange (tactile), swappable
• Battery Life: Up to 60 hours
• Size / Layout: TKL (75%)

PROS: Great build quality while being easy to customize; Command Dial is very useful and simple to control; Latest tech in Synapse brings out the most in the keyboard

CONS: Very expensive at $300, even within Razer’s lineup

The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% is designed for customization, featuring easily swappable switches and the Command Dial. Its high-quality build, multi-layer construction, and responsive keystrokes make it a strong contender. While expensive, its customizability and features make it a worthwhile option for enthusiasts.

Gaming Keyboard FAQ

What are the advantages between different mechanical switches?

Choosing the right mechanical switch (or optical/Hall Effect switch) is key. While Cherry MX switches once dominated, many manufacturers now offer proprietary switches. Gateron and Kailh Box are also competitive. Optical and Hall Effect switches utilize light and magnets, respectively. The three main switch types are linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches offer smooth keystrokes, tactile switches provide a slight bump for feedback, and clicky switches are louder with pronounced feedback.

Actuation point, travel distance, and actuation force are also important. The actuation point is the distance at which the keystroke registers. Shorter actuation points allow for faster input but risk accidental keystrokes. Travel distance is the full keystroke depth. Actuation force is the pressure needed to activate the key (measured in grams).

Should I go with a TKL, compact, or full-sized keyboard?

Layout choice is a matter of preference. Full-sized keyboards offer all 104 keys and maximum desk space, often including extra features. 96% keyboards retain all keys in a more compact layout. Tenkeyless (TKL) keyboards omit the number pad, freeing up desk space and often adding features like dials or OLED panels. Compact 60% keyboards are even smaller, but sacrifice the function row and center column. Performance depends on switches, build quality, and features that optimize input speed and accuracy.

Should I go wired or wireless for a gaming keyboard?

Wireless is more crucial for mice and headsets due to movement. For keyboards, it's a nice-to-have. Wired keyboards are often cheaper, and wireless technology has advanced to minimize latency. Brands like Logitech (Lightspeed) and Razer (HyperSpeed) offer high-performance wireless solutions. Higher polling rates are increasingly integrated into wireless dongles.

AnswerSee Results