Form Or Function?
Every keyboard is as unique as the person typing on it. Just like some prefer thocky keyboards over creamy ones, different people use keyboards for different purposes. This article will explore the best keyboards for gaming as well as the best mechanical keyboards to maximize productivity.
1. Keychron C2 Pro
While not advertised as a gaming keyboard, the Keychron C2 Pro offers a wonderful gaming experience nonetheless. The C2 offers some of the best customization money can buy as you can program multiple "layers" to each key, so you can efficiently swap between games and tasks, If you're just getting into gaming or are working on a budget, this is probably your best option.
2. MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra
With pre-lubed switches and stabilizers, the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra is a cutting-edge model that feels more expensive than it is. The aluminum case adds an additional premium feel. As a bonus, this keyboard is available in both wired and wireless configurations.
3. Razer Huntsman Mini
Bigger doesn't always mean better, as proven by the Razer Huntsman Mini. The smallest model in Razer's lineup doesn't cut corners in terms of performance, offering incredible responsiveness and macroprogramming. You can also choose between clicky or linear switches.
4. NuPhy Field75 HE
The NuPhy Field75 HE is one of the most versatile models out there, appealing to gamers of all stripes. This model is a consistent people-pleaser will outstanding latency performance. The only downside to this model is that the RGB doesn't shine through the keycaps, making them impossible to read in the dark.
5. Logitech G715
Gaming can be a hostile and insular space that's not always welcoming to new audiences. The Logitech G715 offers excellent performance without sacrificing personalization, making it optimal for everything from cozy farming simulators to high-octane FPS. While this model is on the more expensive side of the list, it has a less aggressive "gaming" aesthetic and comes with a cloud-shaped wrist rest that's as functional as it is charming.
6. Logitech G915 X TKL
If your fingers are so used to working on a laptop that even the lowest of keycaps feel like mountains under your fingertips, then you should check out Logitech's G915 X TKL. While not flat, this low-profile wireless keyboard is sleek without sacrificing gaming functionality. The tenkeyless model is roomy without taking up the whole of your desk.
7. Redragon K596 Vishnu
Gaming shouldn't break the bank, at least the hardware shouldn't. That's why Redragon's K596 Vishnu earned a spot on this list at under $100. This keyboard is colorful, compact, and comfortable, all on a budget.
8. Asus ROG Falchion NX
What about gamers who want to play on the go? Many gaming keyboards aren't designed to be portable, but the ROG Falchion NX by Asus is! This keyboard packs a lot of features into a 65% package, including incredible wireless RGB configuration. Don't forget about the touch panel on the left-hand side which can control volume as well as copy + paste.
9. Be Quiet! Light Mount
Gaming can be noisy, especially in tense moments, but it doesn't have to be. If you want to enjoy your games (possibly with friends in different timezones) without keeping the whole house up, the Light Mount by Be Quiet! is for you. True to its name, this keyboard is almost silent, the keys gliding smoothly under your fingers.
10. Corsair K70 RGB TKL
Corsair makes some of the best gaming keyboards currently on the market, and they won't break the bank either! While still large for a tenkeyless board, this keyboard opens up desk space for mouse movement. Additionally, the adjustable key actuations give you full control over your key sensitivity.
Now that we've covered some of the best gaming keyboards on the market, let's take at a few of the most beautiful models suited to everyday use.
1. Logitech POP Keys
The Logitech POP Keys keyboard is one of the most contentious in the community for its plastic-sounding keys and low price point. However, we're not going to be snobs about this. While we don't recommend using this as a gaming keyboard, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better-looking model on the market.
Nikhil Joseph Beera on Unsplash
2. Luminkey Magger 68 HE
Not everyone needs a number pad, and, if you're one of those people, you should consider the Magger 68 HE by Luminkey. The color scheme hearkens back to the clunky desktop computers of the '80s but without any of the bulk. The translucent arrow and escape keys are the icing on top of a beautiful cake.
3. Hexgears Purple Rain M2
Hexgears keyboards are generally mid-range with a premium feel. The Purple Rain M2 combines the best of both worlds with thocky sounds and a creamy feel. Unlike many of the other keyboards on this list, the Purple Rain M2 has blue-accented backlighting instead of the standard RBG.
4. Azio MK Retro
An attractive workspace can make all the different with regards to productivity. Azio evidently knows this and is putting out some of the best-looking keyboards on the market. The rounded keys and crisp duo-tone accents make for an elegant typing experience.
5. AULA F99 Gasket
AULA's F99 Gasket keyboard works just as well for office work as it does for esports. Users love this keyboard for the soft, almost springy quality of the typing as well as the comfortable, hot-swappable keycaps. This model comes in stylish tri-tone color schemes with RGB backlighting.
6. Apple Magic
This is Apple's default keyboard for Macs and iPads, how good can it be? Pretty darn good if you ask consumers. This keyboard elevates an iPad pro to the level of any laptop or Mac with a seamless, lightweight typing experience in a gorgeous package.
7. Keychron K2V2
Keychron is one of the most popular brands for mechanical keyboards, and their K2V2 model is no exception. Probably the biggest selling point of Keychron keyboards in general is how customizable they are. Once you get the hang of one, you can truly make it your own.
8. Ducky One 3
Ducky keyboards rank consistently high in both performance and aesthetics. The One 3 has a crisp and comfortable typing experience with cool two-tone color schemes like gossamer pink and matcha. While the Ducky One 3 does not offer wireless connectivity, it allows you to keep the RGB on without impacting battery life
9. Akko TAC87
If you want your keyboard whimsical with a touch of pop culture, then Akko is the brand for you. Akko's TKL series is compact, but never cramped, with My Melody and Sailor Moon limited edition models. Our stealth favorite is the Bun Wonderland TAC87 which has rounded keycaps in the style of freshly-baked bread.
10. Logitech Pebble Keys K380s
The circular shape of these keys and tight layout combines classic typewriter design with modern functionality. The Logitech Pebble Keys 2 has a battery life of 36 months and can connect up to 3 different devices at once. The low budget and sleek size makes this portable keyboard a top choice for students and professionals on the go.
