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When it comes to choosing a gaming keyboard, the decision goes far beyond selecting the best gaming mouse or the best gaming headset. A keyboard’s suitability often hinges on personal preferences—ranging from its layout (tenkeyless or full-sized), mechanical switches, to added features. Even when accounting for my own preferences, several key factors influence a keyboard’s performance in both gaming and productivity scenarios. These devices can be quite expensive, so understanding what you're investing in is crucial. Most importantly, knowing what each keyboard offers will help you make an informed choice, and this guide outlines everything you need to know.
Over the years, I’ve tested numerous keyboards—including many of the latest releases—so every recommendation here is based on first-hand experience. I’ll go into detail about how each switch performs in competitive gameplay, the feel of keystrokes during long typing sessions, and how construction affects overall usability. Additional features like Razer’s Command Dial or SteelSeries’ OLED control panel are nice touches, but they often rely on software integration. That’s another consideration if customization is high on your list. Even small details like keycap texture can affect performance. Gaming keyboards come with many nuances, and I’ve done the legwork to ensure you choose wisely.
TL;DR: These 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 Amazon
Because there are so many styles of keyboards, I’ve broken down my recommendations into several categories. This also gives me the chance to highlight products from different brands, rather than focusing only on one. While the SteelSeries Apex Pro remains my top pick, each of these keyboards has standout qualities that might better suit your needs and preferences. For example, the Cherry MX LP 2.1 takes the lead as the best compact 60% keyboard due to its low-profile design and lightweight build. If you prefer a sleek form factor without sacrificing functionality, the Logitech G515 TKL is a solid option. On a budget? The Redragon K582 Surara delivers excellent value for the price. As you’ll see, I’m passionate about the finer details, so let’s dive into my top picks.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL (Gen 3) - Photos
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1. SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)
Best Overall Gaming Keyboard
Best Overall### SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3)
17From nearly every angle, the SteelSeries Apex Pro is the ideal gaming keyboardwith Hall Effect switches, an OLED control panel, and solid construction.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsConnectivity2.4GHz (USB-C dongle), Bluetooth, or wiredSwitch TypeOmniPoint 3.0 Hall Effect (linear)Battery LifeUp to 45 hoursSize / LayoutFull (wired-only) or TKLPROSHall Effect switches are customizable and feel greatOLED control panel works wellSleek, no-nonsense design with tasteful RGBCONSN/ASteelSeries’ gaming keyboards manage to consistently impress me over the years, especially with the Apex lineup. In 2024, SteelSeries refreshed its Apex Pro for a third generation that consists of full-sized and tenkeyless models (including a wireless version). When I reviewed the Apex Pro TKL Gen 3, I was hard-pressed to find an aspect I would change about it. From the OmniPoint 3.0 switches to the OLED control panel, it has exactly what I’m looking for in a gaming keyboard.
Regardless of the model you go with, the SteelSeries Apex Pro isn’t a flashy keyboard, but its sleek, simple design is complemented with keycaps that have a bold font type and tasteful RGB that shines through. The real star is the Hall Effect switches – these aren’t just smooth and buttery to type on; each keystroke feels consistent and satisfying. And because they’re Hall Effect, you can set a custom actuation point between 0.1mm to 4.0mm for any key. Being able to have an extra-short actuation point in competitive shooters is advantageous, and setting it back to normal for work and typing gives it a versatility that very few keyboards offer.
Additionally, features like Rapid Tap, Rapid Trigger, and Protection Mode can improve performance, though their usefulness may vary depending on what you play (and be wary of Rapid Tap being banned in certain games). The OLED panel is great, though, and being able to control things like media, RGB lighting, actuation points, macros, and information displayed is nice along with swapping custom profiles. The battery life is manageable, topping off at 45 hours under ideal conditions, but keyboards are one peripheral where I can work with limited battery life.
From nearly every angle, the Gen 3 SteelSeries Apex Pro is the keyboard I’ve been looking for, and it’s probably going to take the perfect keyboard to get me off of it.
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