Best Gaming Keyboards in 2018

Most professional gamers with plenty of experience know that getting the right gaming keyboard can easily help and improve their gaming skills. You can easily find high-quality and trustworthy products in today’s markets. However, instead of purchasing new gaming keyboards repeatedly, you can get your hands on the right keyboard for you that benefits long gameplays through quality, efficiency, strength, and durability. The right keyboards cater to each gamer’s needs, and most gaming keyboard’s designs are durable enough to support long hours of typing and gaming while providing adequate surface area so that you can perform with full motion. It should be mentioned that the major importance of any gaming keyboard is that it should offer style and functionality to improve your skills while keeping your hands, arms and mental abilities relatively free and healthy.

The presence of a large variety of gaming keyboards both online and in the market can lead to indecision and doubt when you pick a keyboard for yourself. For that purpose, comparing and contrasting the different available keyboards are essential, and so we’ve made this easy for you by giving a complete buyer’s guide to answering your frequently asked questions about the right keyboard, as well as giving a list of our best gaming keyboards of 2018 that we’ve researched, reviewed and summarized for your convenience.

A BUYER’S GUIDE FOR GAMING KEYBOARDS

What is the difference between a normal keyboard and a gaming keyboard?

Gaming keyboards are unlike usual typing keyboards in that they focus more on game controls. Many gaming keyboards have added responsive keys, ergonomics, and backlighting compared to regular keyboards which are needed to improve gamer reactions with regards to their activity on the screens. The keyboards are made much more comfortable compared to regular keyboards, and also have added recordable macro functions which come to be used on more than one gaming occasion. Some even include an integrated USB Audio with separate headphone and microphone jacks, which allow gamers to voice chat on the internet while playing games, especially shooter games where communication without delay is very important. Gaming keyboards also have media controls like those for volume adjustment. The keyboards mostly have twelve programmable keys and three macros. All in all, gaming keyboards allow more interactive gameplay than regular ones with add-ons and improved features.

What should you look for in a gaming keyboard?

Here are some points to consider that help you pick the best gaming keyboard for you:

1. Requirement: Depending on your gaming needs, most heavy-duty gaming requires a proper gaming keyboard, but for the occasional online gameplay involving light fun, it may be best to go for a regular office keyboard which offers the same basic functions at a lower price. Regular online games don’t warrant investment in top-tier gaming keyboards, but more interactive games like first shooters, MMO and strategies definitely need the full immersion and add-ons offered by most gaming keyboards.
2. Price: Gaming keyboards don’t usually fit into allocated price categories. Pricing gives you an idea of not only your budget but also certain guidelines you can use when choosing a keyboard. Features usually vary greatly when it comes down to retailers, deals, and the presence of a newer model that replaces any older ones.
3. Model: A deep dive on the internet gaming keyboards will show you that some cheaper, low-tier models are known as membrane keyboards, while the more costly and versatile models are called mechanical keyboards. Membrane keyboards function by running an electric current through plastic membranes, while mechanical keyboards, like typewriters, use a mechanical switch under each key. It is important to know that the mechanical keyboard feels better and works more effectively in terms of good gameplay, which is why it usually costs more. But if the price is your main issue, membrane keyboards come for cheaper and are far better than office keyboards, so you can choose whichever based on affordability.
4. Type: Most gaming keyboards are all-purpose models. These include mechanical models that look similar to office keyboards, but with a few added keys or some festive backlighting to offer more style and function. These are great for simple adventure games that need no extra console advantages. For gamers who play interactive online games, MMO keyboards are a better option, since they have extra macro keys, often in multiple rows. Basic MMO keyboards start at six extra keys but can go up to 18 for gamers who to gain finer control. These keyboards are often costly and large in size, so you need to have ample space. Tenkeyless models are small, affordable and lightweight for easy transport. They are easily connected and disconnected, some coming with cases for portability. These keyboards are perfect for traveling gamers who play more tournaments.
5. Lighting: When it comes to backlighting, there are three types of keyboards – none, monochrome, or RGB. Backlighting helps you spot the keys in dull lighting to improve reactions during gaming, but other than that they’re more of a personal taste option according to your style.

What effects can a low-quality keyboard have on your gameplay?

Professional gamers who invest in poor-quality keyboards find themselves making crucial typos and slips during gameplay because of bad precision, control, and accuracy that the stiff keys allow. A gamer also feels less demotivated using low-quality keyboards that offer nothing in terms of design, style, and function. Using the wrong keyboard could affect games if they’re not compatible with the type of keyboard that is connected to the system, and reduced quality also risks the chance of breaking or damaging the keyboard during intense gameplay which could result in more costly repairs and replacements. Finally, a poor gaming keyboard can affect the gamer’s hands and wrists, which is a common problem for many gamers who face Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and other aches and pains.

2018’s Top Picks

Last update on 2018-04-23 at 18:19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

#1 HAVIT Wired Gaming Keyboard – Rainbow Backlit

The HAVIT Gaming Keyboard is genuinely designed to define the highest gaming standards. It offers a light yet solid feel, with a typical design that allows greater customization. The keyboard is available in black and white with a variety of color choices for backlighting. It doesn’t need any drivers or USB plug-in. The keyboard’s cable is 160cm which is a flexible length. You also get 10 programmable keys for games of your choice. The keyboard has a beautiful outline, movable multicolor illumination and 19 anti-ghosting keys that allow free-range control. It also has an auto-reset function in case of no use for more than 10 minutes and can be activated simply by pressing any key. It offers a non-slip and spill-resistant style, with two rubber holders underneath to prevent slipping and holes in the back to protect from spills and fluids. You can switch between the 3 lights modes offered according to personal preference. The keys are also standard and give feedback for quicker typing and gameplay. The keyboard comes with a lightweight mouse that has an aerodynamic design and a DPI switcher with 5 programmable DPI settings. Thus, you get to enjoy this amazing Havil product at a reasonable price with a mouse combo and all its fantastic features combined.

This keyboard offers great quality and comes with fantastic features and design. Gamers who are actually looking for a comfortable and robust keyboard arrangement, with the choice of adjusting key functions and lighting to their preferences, should definitely consider this keyboard. If you’re buying your very first gaming keyboard and are on a tight budget, Havil offers you the perfect cheap product so you can have a great PC gaming keyboard with all the right features at the perfect price.

Last update on 2018-04-23 at 18:19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

#2 EagleTec Gaming Keyboard – LED Backlit

EagleTec gives you an upgraded version of their previous products with this keyboard that offers new and improved features. The keyboard is a versatile product and offers perfect design and functionality for your gaming needs. It comes in a sleek black and white designs that can also incorporate red, blue and rainbow LED backlighting that makes the keyboard quite attractive. The keyboard is a high-performance product that stands out from others with the inclusion of an aluminum backplate which offers strength and durability. The keyboard’s light weight and flexibility also make it better than other competitors in the same price range and design. The keyboard’s white keycap design allows easy cleanup by making dirt and stains visible. It is a tactile and responsive product which while considered basic, gives you everything you need from a gaming keyboard.

The EagleTec Gaming Keyboard is a budget-friendly choice for gamers who are looking for basic functionality with great design. You get all the basic gaming keyboard features at an insanely affordable price, without losing any performance or quality. Overall, most gamers can enjoy this great keyboard.

Last update on 2018-04-23 at 18:19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

3. CORSAIR RAPIDFIRE – K70 RGB – Gaming Keyboard

The CORSAIR RAPIDFIRE Keyboard is versatilely designed for both gaming and writing requirements. It comes with an aluminum chassis (anodized brushed) with the keys visible on the surface without a cover for the top. This is a two-edged sword since the keyboard is not hard to clean but still lets dust collect the keys. The keyboard incorporates a new “RAPIDFIRE” mechanical key switch, which requires a short travel to function. This makes it easier to activate the keys. The keyboard connects to your PC with a thick two-headed USB cable which acts as a power source for the board. It comes into RGB and red LED backlight designs that can be compatible with most computer designs and styles, and so can please most every gamer. The keyboard’s textured keys are beveled, making it great for gaming but a hassle for touch-typing. This can be overlooked since you can conveniently switch to and from the textured and untextured keys using the included tool in order depending on whether you are gaming or writing.

The Corsair RAPIDFIRE has offered beautiful RGB and red LED backlighting. It is a capable gaming keyboard with fast media controls. While it may be more costly than other competitors, it makes up for the price by providing slick performance with its switches for better gameplay. While others may not be accustomed to the textures and aluminum back plating, it is a basic keyboard that most gamers can enjoy thoroughly.

Last update on 2018-04-23 at 18:19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

4. Razer Revolutionary Mecha Gaming Keyboard with Backlit and Mid-Height Keys

The Razer Revolutionary Gaming Keyboard with Backlit and Mid-Height Keys has all the benefits of a Razer product without losing anything at its affordable price. It is an amazing option if you don’t have the large finances required to spend on branded and designer gaming keyboards. The keyboard’s stunning Ornata Chroma and Ornata Destiny Chroma designs show RGB backlighting and rubber domes, which give the keyboard a great look. Not only this but the keyboard functions as a mechanical-membrane hybrid, which gives you the advantages of both styles while reducing the overall cost. This ergonomically designed marvel comes with a magnetic wrist rest for gamers’ ease and convenience during long intense hours of gameplay during the night.

The only design flaw that can be seen is the offset keys, which only add to annoyance rather than debilitation in function. The hybrid design can also be straining for the hands, fingers, and wrists with loner use. However, based on looks and performance for a good price, this is a great choice for gamers.

This isn’t going to be a keyboard that you rave over and love every little thing about. However, if you do have between $60-70 to spend, the Razer Revolutionary Gaming Keyboard will give good value compared to most other chairs. It is a reasonably comfortable keyboard being as cheap as it is, and the design will attract certain gamers. The rubber-dome design is unique as well. While the keyboard definitely isn’t on par with others in design, it definitely offers you the basics in terms of price value and gaming needs. First-time chair buyers with limited budgets should definitely consider this keyboard!

Last update on 2018-04-23 at 18:19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

5. Rii Multiple Color – Multimedia Gaming Keyboard – Rainbow LED Backlit Large Size

The Rii Multiple Color USB Wired Multimedia gaming keyboard is a basic designed mechanical-like gaming keyboard that promises nothing more than standard gaming keyboard features for an astonishingly low price. The design isn’t all that attractive, but the keyboard makes up for it with beautiful RGB backlighting. It also offers standard compatibility with most devices and software, so you do not need to worry about performance issues. While definitely not the fastest out of other gaming keyboards, this is certainly a perfect choice for beginner gamers looking to save an extra buck to play some standard PC games requiring little to no interaction. The keyboard’s basic designing also allows versatility in that it can be used for typing and writing purposes as well. Basic functions include an auto-rest option within 10 minutes of inactivity and a fast response on clicking any keys.

The Rii USB Wired Multimedia Gaming Keyboard is a good PC gaming keyboard for beginner gamers on a budget. It has all the basic features of any gaming keyboard, although it comes with no defining or stand-out at its price point. But for buyers on a budget, this is a great choice for its value!

Last update on 2018-04-23 at 18:19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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