Top Gaming Keyboards for 2025 Revealed

Choosing the perfect gaming keyboard is as much about personal taste as it is about performance. From the overall layout, whether it's a compact tenkeyless (TKL) or full-sized, to the type of mechanical switches and extra features, every aspect plays a crucial role. These keyboards can be quite an investment, so understanding their key features is essential. In this guide, I'll share insights from my experience with a variety of gaming keyboards, focusing on their performance in competitive gaming scenarios and everyday typing.

Over the years, I've tested numerous keyboards, from established models to the latest releases, ensuring my recommendations are based on first-hand experience. I'll delve into how each keyboard's switches perform, the tactile feedback of their keystrokes, and the impact of additional features like Razer's Command Dial or SteelSeries' OLED control panel. These features often depend on accompanying software, so customization is another factor to consider. Even the choice of keycaps can significantly affect performance and comfort. My reviews aim to help you make an informed decision when selecting your next gaming keyboard.

TL;DR: Here Are the Best Gaming Keyboards:

Best Overall### SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)

17See it at Amazon### Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro

6See it at Amazon### Redragon K582 Surara

3See it at Amazon### Cherry MX LP 2.1

3See it at Amazon### Logitech G Pro X TKL

4See it at Amazon### Keychron K4

1See it at Amazon### Corsair K100 RGB

2See it at Amazon### Logitech G515 TKL

1See it at Amazon### Pulsar Xboard QS

1See it at Amazon### Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%

2See it at AmazonWith so many keyboard styles available, I've categorized my recommendations to highlight various aspects and cater to different preferences. This approach allows me to feature multiple products from different brands, rather than just focusing on my top pick, the SteelSeries Apex Pro. Each keyboard excels in certain areas, and some may better suit your specific needs. For instance, the Cherry MX LP 2.1 is my favorite for a compact 60% keyboard due to its low-profile keys and lightweight design. If you're after a low-profile option, the Logitech G515 TKL is a great choice with its slim profile and useful onboard features. And for those on a budget, the Redragon K582 Surara offers impressive performance at a reasonable price.

SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (Gen 3) - Photos

11 Images1. SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)

Best Overall Gaming Keyboard

Best Overall### SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)

17The SteelSeries Apex Pro is the epitome of a versatile gaming keyboard, featuring Hall Effect switches, an OLED control panel, and robust construction. Its sleek design and tasteful RGB lighting enhance its appeal without compromising functionality. The OmniPoint 3.0 switches offer customizable actuation points from 0.1mm to 4.0mm, making it ideal for both competitive gaming and everyday use. Features like Rapid Tap and Rapid Trigger can boost performance, although they may not be suitable for all games. The OLED panel allows for easy control over media, lighting, and macros, making this keyboard a top choice for gamers seeking versatility and performance.

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro – Photos

25 Images2. Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro

Best High-End Gaming Keyboard

### Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro

6The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro stands out with its superior mechanical switches, customizable Command Dial, and full-sized layout with macro keys. Razer's proprietary switches offer a tactile, clicky, or linear feel, catering to various preferences. The Synapse software enhances its versatility, allowing for detailed customization of the Command Dial and macro keys. Despite its bulkier size, the BlackWidow V4 Pro's build quality and performance make it a top contender for high-end gaming setups.

3. Redragon K582 Surara

Best Budget Gaming Keyboard

### Redragon K582 Surara

3The Redragon K582 Surara is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers. Despite its flashy design, it offers reliable performance with its professional Red switches, which rival the smoothness of Cherry MX Reds. This full-sized keyboard is a testament to how far budget options have come, providing a well-built and durable alternative to pricier brands.

4. Cherry MX LP 2.1

Best Compact (60%) Gaming Keyboard

### Cherry MX LP 2.1

3The Cherry MX LP 2.1 is a standout in the compact keyboard category with its lightweight design and low-profile keycaps. It features Cherry MX Low-Profile Silver switches, offering a smooth and quick typing experience. Although the compact size may not suit everyone, especially those needing function keys and a number pad, its performance and portability make it a great option for those who prioritize space efficiency.

5. Logitech G Pro X TKL

Best Tenkeyless (75%) Gaming Keyboard

### Logitech G Pro X TKL

4The Logitech G Pro X TKL combines sleek design with high performance, featuring proprietary switches that offer a satisfying keystroke. Its brushed aluminum top and exposed keycap design allow the RGB lighting to shine through tastefully. The keyboard retains essential onboard features like a volume wheel and media controls, making it a versatile choice for gamers and professionals alike.

6. Keychron K4

Best 96% Layout Gaming Keyboard

### Keychron K4

1The Keychron K4 is an ideal choice for those seeking a full-sized keyboard with a smaller footprint. It features Gateron Red switches, which offer a smooth and responsive typing experience. Its slim frame and wireless capabilities make it a versatile option, though it lacks some of the extra features found in more premium models.

Corsair K100 RGB Review

14 Images7. Corsair K100 RGB

Best Full-Sized Gaming Keyboard

### Corsair K100 RGB

2The Corsair K100 RGB is a premium full-sized keyboard with a stunning brushed aluminum plate and customizable RGB lighting. It features either Cherry MX Speed or Corsair OPX Optical switches, offering a unique and responsive typing experience. The keyboard's robust onboard controls and macro keys enhance its functionality, though the accompanying software could be more user-friendly.

Logitech G515 Lightspeed TKL - Photos

10 Images8. Logitech G515 TKL

Best Low-Profile Gaming Keyboard

### Logitech G515 TKL

1The Logitech G515 TKL excels as a low-profile keyboard with its slim design and tactile switches. Its compact size doesn't compromise on performance, making it a great choice for gamers and typists who prefer a sleek aesthetic. The keyboard's top bar could benefit from additional controls, but its overall performance and design are commendable.

Pulsar Xboard QS - Photos

15 Images9. Pulsar Xboard QS

Best Wired Gaming Keyboard

### Pulsar Xboard QS

1The Pulsar Xboard QS impresses with its strong build quality and unique aesthetic. Its Kailh Box Ice Mint 2 switches offer a smooth and light typing experience, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions. Despite its high price, the Xboard QS's dual connectivity and customizable features make it a standout option for wired keyboard enthusiasts.

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% - Photos

13 Images10. Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%

Best Customizable Gaming Keyboard

### Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%

2The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% offers extensive customization options with its swappable switches and updated Command Dial. Its high build quality and advanced features make it a top choice for gamers looking to tailor their keyboard to their exact specifications.

Gaming Keyboard FAQ

What are the advantages between different mechanical switches?

Choosing the right mechanical switch is crucial for your gaming keyboard experience. Mechanical switches come in three main types: linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches offer a smooth keystroke without feedback, ideal for gaming where speed is key. Tactile switches provide a bump at the actuation point, offering feedback that can enhance typing accuracy. Clicky switches add an audible click to the tactile bump, which some users prefer for typing but can be distracting in gaming. Additionally, optical and Hall Effect switches use light or magnets for actuation, often allowing for adjustable actuation points and faster response times.

Key switch characteristics to consider include the actuation point, travel distance, and actuation force. The actuation point is when the keystroke registers, with shorter points being beneficial for competitive gaming. Travel distance is the total key movement before bottoming out, and actuation force is the pressure needed to activate the switch. These factors can influence your typing speed and comfort.

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

Your choice of keyboard layout depends on your specific needs and preferences. Full-sized keyboards offer all 104 keys and are ideal if you need a number pad and additional features like macro keys. A 96% layout retains all essential keys but in a more compact form, perfect for those looking to save space without sacrificing functionality. TKL keyboards omit the number pad, freeing up desk space and often featuring additional onboard controls. Compact 60% keyboards are the smallest, sacrificing some functionality for a minimal footprint, making them great for those prioritizing space efficiency.

Should I go wired or wireless for a gaming keyboard?

While wireless technology has advanced significantly, the choice between wired and wireless gaming keyboards often comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Wireless keyboards offer convenience and flexibility, but wired models can be more reliable and cost-effective. For gaming, where latency can be critical, wired keyboards might be preferred, though high-quality wireless options with technologies like Logitech's Lightspeed or Razer's HyperSpeed perform exceptionally well.