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Many gaming keyboard brands offer similar features, but serious gamers know what sets the best keyboards apart. We looked at the features listed below, along with style, feel, and cost, to bring you our top picks for eight focused categories.

Switches: Keyboard switches – which sit underneath each key – pick up what you put down. Most gaming keyboards come equipped with one of a variety of different options for mechanical or membrane switches. The switches register your keystroke, so you want to make sure they function with speed and accuracy.

Type: Mechanical keyboards are sturdier, offer a more instant reaction, and tend to be the preferred option for gamers. Membrane keyboards are ideal for quieter performance and quicker movement across the keys.

SEE ALSO: 8 of the best gaming mouse options for improved play

Anti-ghosting: Anti-ghosting technology (i.e., the ability to capture simultaneous keystrokes without any hiccups) has become a standard on gaming keyboards, and all the gaming keyboards highlighted below come equipped with some form of anti-ghosting technology. The difference between the keyboards is the number of anti-ghosting keys that can be used simultaneously, as some keyboards are more restrictive than others.

Backlighting: Gaming keyboards come equipped with either single color backlighting, multi-color RGB (Red, Green, Blue) backlighting, or no lighting at all. Some gaming keyboards even feature backlighting options that allow you to synchronize the lighting with the action on your screen to create the ultimate gaming atmosphere.

Additional features considered include ergonomics, customizable macros, design, and, of course, cost. The first step is to determine what your gaming priorities are, whether they are specific to your favorite game or are more in line with budget or versatility. Then use this guide to pinpoint the perfect gaming keyboard to meet your unique gaming needs.

Best of Everything Image: amazon The Good Fast acting keystrokes • Multiple backlighting options • Macros on the go • Gaming mode Fast acting keystrokes • Multiple backlighting options • Macros on the go • Gaming mode The Bad Price tag • Can be noisy • Minimal number of anti-ghosting keys Price tag • Can be noisy • Minimal number of anti-ghosting keys The Bottom Line The Razer Huntsman Elite is in the upper class of mechanical gaming keyboards. The Razer Huntsman Elite is in the upper class of mechanical gaming keyboards. Key type: Opto-mechanical

Opto-mechanical Size: 9.22 x 17.64 x 1.42 inches

9.22 x 17.64 x 1.42 inches Features: Opto-mechanical switch, key stabilizer bar, magnetic wrist rest, multi-function digital dial, gaming mode, hybrid on-board memory and cloud storage, Razor Chroma-powered underglow $199.99 from Amazon 1. Razer Hunstman Elite The Razer Huntsman Elite is in the upper class of mechanical gaming keyboards.

The standout feature on the Razer Hunstman Elite is the Razer Opto-Mechanical Switch, which uses an optical light sensor to reduce the actuation distance by 30 percent compared to standard mechanical switches. The result is unmatched speed in response to your keystrokes. You still get the same feel and sound as a standard mechanical keyboard, but with improved response times. The Razer Opto-Mechanical™ Switch also features a stabilizer bar that eliminates any inconsistencies resulting from variances in finger placement on a key.

The 10-key rollover will help prevent ghosting; however, ten keys is on the low end for anti-ghosting technology. This may prove to be a non-issue for most games, but may be insufficient for certain games.

The Razer Hunstman Elite also comes packed with backlighting features that use Razer Chroma technology to offer 16.8 million customizable color options and full 4-side underglow. You can set the colors based on personal preference or match the aesthetic to the gameplay in real time. An ergonomically sound magnetic wrist rest also includes 20 customizations for underglow lighting.

Additional features include on-the-fly macro customization, a multi-functional and programmable digital dial, enough storage for up to 5 profiles, and cloud storage for all profile configurations. You can also turn on Gaming Mode to ensure that you don’t accidently hit the wrong key – Windows or Menu, for example – and interrupt your progress.

The Razer Huntsman Elite costs about $50 more than the standard Razer Hunstman model, but the higher price tag is in line with all the added features available on the Elite model.

Amazon customer

“You get what you pay for with this. I was hesitant on dropping this much on a keyboard at first. After using it for a few minutes I became very satisfied with my purchase. Good feedback from the keys, most comfortable wrist rest I've ever used & the lighting has so many options for customization. Razer really nailed it on this one.... Only potential downside is the noise. I personally don't mind it, but it's quite loud and may be an issue for some out there.” The Razer Hunstman Elite lives up to its name in the hierarchy of mechanical gaming keyboards.The standout feature on the Razer Hunstman Elite is the Razer Opto-Mechanical Switch, which uses an optical light sensor to reduce the actuation distance by 30 percent compared to standard mechanical switches. The result is unmatched speed in response to your keystrokes. You still get the same feel and sound as a standard mechanical keyboard, but with improved response times. The Razer Opto-Mechanical™ Switch also features a stabilizer bar that eliminates any inconsistencies resulting from variances in finger placement on a key.The 10-key rollover will help prevent ghosting; however, ten keys is on the low end for anti-ghosting technology. This may prove to be a non-issue for most games, but may be insufficient for certain games.The Razer Hunstman Elite also comes packed with backlighting features that use Razer Chroma technology to offer 16.8 million customizable color options and full 4-side underglow. You can set the colors based on personal preference or match the aesthetic to the gameplay in real time. An ergonomically sound magnetic wrist rest also includes 20 customizations for underglow lighting.Additional features include on-the-fly macro customization, a multi-functional and programmable digital dial, enough storage for up to 5 profiles, and cloud storage for all profile configurations. You can also turn on Gaming Mode to ensure that you don’t accidently hit the wrong key – Windows or Menu, for example – and interrupt your progress.The Razer Huntsman Elite costs about $50 more than the standard Razer Hunstman model, but the higher price tag is in line with all the added features available on the Elite model.Amazon customer Dustin says:

Best Cheap Option Image: amazon The Good Price tag • Sturdy build • Anti-ghosting keys Price tag • Sturdy build • Anti-ghosting keys The Bad Loud typing sounds • No number pad Loud typing sounds • No number pad The Bottom Line The Redragon K552 Kumara provides gaming quality for the price of a basic keyboard. The Redragon K552 Kumara provides gaming quality for the price of a basic keyboard. Key type: Mechanical switches

Mechanical switches Size: 13.9 x 4.8 x 1.5 inches

13.9 x 4.8 x 1.5 inches Features: Custom mechanical switches, red LED adjustable lighting, metal and ABS construction, gold-plated USB connector, mechanical keys, 87 standard conflict free keys, multimedia keys, splash-proof design $29.99 from Amazon 2. Redragon K552 KUMARA The Redragon K552 Kumara provides gaming quality for the price of a basic keyboard.

At just $29.99, the Redragon K552 Kumara is built to survive all the wear and tear of intense gaming. The keyboard even boasts that the base is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum.

The Outemu custom mechanical switches match the sound and tactile response of some higher-end keyboards, less the hefty price tag (though some complaints were voiced about the noise level). The switches and plate-mounted keys are also designed for durability.

All 87 keys are equipped with anti-ghosting technology and include red LED backlighting. The Redragon K552 Kumara also features 12 multimedia keys, as well as a gaming mode to disable the Windows key. The keyboard does not include a number pad.

The adjustable rear feet are designed to avoid any slippage during gaming. Also, added bonus, keys can be easily removed for cleaning.

Amazon customer

“Great keyboard! The mechanical switches feel superb and I cannot even tell they are not Cherry MX. I can confirm that the switches are similar to Cherry MX Blues as many people describe. The build quality is fantastic for a ~$30 keyboard and the LED lighting is such a great bonus. I would have bought this keyboard even without the LED lighting. The keyboard also has great media shortcuts that work without any drivers. I would highly recommend this keyboard if you are looking for an extremely budget friendly REAL mechanical keyboard.” The Redragon K552 Kumara is the best-selling mechanical gaming keyboard on Amazon, and for good reason. You can’t beat these features at this price point!At just $29.99, the Redragon K552 Kumara is built to survive all the wear and tear of intense gaming. The keyboard even boasts that the base is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum.The Outemu custom mechanical switches match the sound and tactile response of some higher-end keyboards, less the hefty price tag (though some complaints were voiced about the noise level). The switches and plate-mounted keys are also designed for durability.All 87 keys are equipped with anti-ghosting technology and include red LED backlighting. The Redragon K552 Kumara also features 12 multimedia keys, as well as a gaming mode to disable the Windows key. The keyboard does not include a number pad.The adjustable rear feet are designed to avoid any slippage during gaming. Also, added bonus, keys can be easily removed for cleaning.Amazon customer Sean says:

Best Build Image: amazon The Good Solid build • Customizable • Options galore Solid build • Customizable • Options galore The Bad Takes up a lot of desk space Takes up a lot of desk space The Bottom Line The HyperX Alloy Elite RGB has style and is built to last. The HyperX Alloy Elite RGB has style and is built to last. 3. HyperX Alloy Elite RGB Key type: CHERRY® MX mechanical key switches

CHERRY® MX mechanical key switches Size: 17.5 x 6.65 x 1.5 inches

17.5 x 6.65 x 1.5 inches Features: Light bar and dynamic lighting effects, solid steel frame, media controls with volume wheel, USB 2.0 pass-through, N-Key rollover, detachable wrist rest $139.99 from Amazon

Look closer and the HyperX Alloy Elite RGB was built for maximum customization across the board. HyperX Ngenuity software allows customization of game mode and macros. You can set up three profiles using the memory on the keyboard. Options abound with the HyperX Alloy Elite RGB. You can purchase the key switches in Cherry MX Blue, Brown, or Red. The optional HyperX textured, titanium-colored keycaps are included with the purchase of the keyboard.

Look again and find that at its core the HyperX Ngenuity was built for quality and durability. The keyboard is constructed around a solid steel frame, which makes for a stable gaming experience and a keyboard that will last.

N-Key rollover and anti-ghosting technology comes standard on this keyboard. The USB 2.0 pass-through allows you to connect your peripheral accessories to the keyboard. The media buttons include a large volume wheel, as well as buttons for controlling the brightness, lighting effects, and game mode settings.

To house all the features, the HyperX Alloy Elite RGB is on the larger end compared to other gaming keyboards; however, we feel that it is a small sacrifice when considering all the features provided.

For gamers who prioritize budget over style, consider the less expensive Hyper X Alloy Elite, which comes in a single color.

Amazon customer

“This keyboard feels great! I love how sturdy and sleek it looks. The three buttons on the top left of the keyboard that control brightness and keyboard modes is a huge plus. The media buttons on the top right were a selling point for me. I dislike having to press FN and another key to control my media like on other keyboards. I highly recommend this keyboard to anyone!” At first glance, the HyperX Alloy Elite RGB could be featured under a Best Aesthetic category. HyperX Ngenuity software in conjunction with the radiant bar that sits at the top of the keyboard allow for maximum customization of lighting effect options. Customized key colors can be saved directly on the keyboard’s onboard memory.Look closer and the HyperX Alloy Elite RGB was built for maximum customization across the board. HyperX Ngenuity software allows customization of game mode and macros. You can set up three profiles using the memory on the keyboard. Options abound with the HyperX Alloy Elite RGB. You can purchase the key switches in Cherry MX Blue, Brown, or Red. The optional HyperX textured, titanium-colored keycaps are included with the purchase of the keyboard.Look again and find that at its core the HyperX Ngenuity was built for quality and durability. The keyboard is constructed around a solid steel frame, which makes for a stable gaming experience and a keyboard that will last.N-Key rollover and anti-ghosting technology comes standard on this keyboard. The USB 2.0 pass-through allows you to connect your peripheral accessories to the keyboard. The media buttons include a large volume wheel, as well as buttons for controlling the brightness, lighting effects, and game mode settings.To house all the features, the HyperX Alloy Elite RGB is on the larger end compared to other gaming keyboards; however, we feel that it is a small sacrifice when considering all the features provided.For gamers who prioritize budget over style, consider the less expensive Hyper X Alloy Elite, which comes in a single color.Amazon customer Jason says:

Best Quiet Keyboard Image: amazon The Good Quiet • Reactive to in-game experiences • Durable Quiet • Reactive to in-game experiences • Durable The Bad No designated media keys No designated media keys The Bottom Line The membrane switches on SteelSeries Apex 150 provide a quieter gaming experience. The membrane switches on SteelSeries Apex 150 provide a quieter gaming experience. 4. SteelSeries Apex 150 Key type: Quick Tension membrane switches

Quick Tension membrane switches Size: 6.17 x 18.26 x 1.66 inches

6.17 x 18.26 x 1.66 inches Features: 5-zone customizable RGB lighting, splash resistance, 20-million key press durability, Discord in-game lighting notifications $49.19 from Amazon

SteelSeries advertises that the keys will last for 20-million clicks. Unless you’re a 24-7 gamer (get some sleep!) that’s a long life for a keyboard. The keyboard is built with liquid-resistant construction, so you will reach 20 million even with some accidental spills. With 23-key rollover, that durability does not come at the expense of a smooth gaming experience.

The RGB backlighting is customizable in five separate zones, and responds in real time to your in-game experience by utilizing Game Sense reactive lighting. You can also integrate the keyboard with Discord Chat to receive notifications through the keyboard any time you receive a message.

There are no dedicated media keys on the Apex 150 – they share double duty with function keys on the board making for a sleeker design. SteelSeries Engine software allows you to customize the most intense macros.

The SteelSeries Apex 150 is also very affordable at under $50.

Amazon customer

“I love this keyboard so much! It's quiet, good for gaming, and fun to type with. It's by far my favorite keyboard of all time (for now.) It's much quieter than my previous keyboards and it has nice lighting. Although the lighting isn't great over the actual keys, the back light is still nice and you can turn it up as well. Definitely worth the price.” Experience gaming without the noisy click, click, click of your keyboard. The SteelSeries Apex 150 offers softer sounds with its Quick Tension membrane switches. The durability of the keyboard and complementary features bring it to the top of our list for quiet keyboards.SteelSeries advertises that the keys will last for 20-million clicks. Unless you’re a 24-7 gamer (get some sleep!) that’s a long life for a keyboard. The keyboard is built with liquid-resistant construction, so you will reach 20 million even with some accidental spills. With 23-key rollover, that durability does not come at the expense of a smooth gaming experience.The RGB backlighting is customizable in five separate zones, and responds in real time to your in-game experience by utilizing Game Sense reactive lighting. You can also integrate the keyboard with Discord Chat to receive notifications through the keyboard any time you receive a message.There are no dedicated media keys on the Apex 150 – they share double duty with function keys on the board making for a sleeker design. SteelSeries Engine software allows you to customize the most intense macros.The SteelSeries Apex 150 is also very affordable at under $50.Amazon customer Cecilia F. says:

Best Bang for your Buck Image: The Good Moderately priced • Multiple switch options • Very customizable Moderately priced • Multiple switch options • Very customizable The Bad No wrist rest provided • Some software complaints from reviewers No wrist rest provided • Some software complaints from reviewers The Bottom Line The Logitech G610 Orion gives you a great deal at a decent price. The Logitech G610 Orion gives you a great deal at a decent price. 5. Logitech G610 Orion Key type: Cherry Mx Red, Brown, or Blue mechanical key switches

Cherry Mx Red, Brown, or Blue mechanical key switches Size: 17.5 x 6 x 1.4 inches

17.5 x 6 x 1.4 inches Features: Low-noise switches, customizable lighting and function keys, game mode, media controls, Logitech gaming software, 26-key rollover, three-position height adjustment $119.99 from Amazon

The Logitech G610 Orion offers three different options for key switches – the quieter Cherry MX Red (linear keypress), Cherry MX Brown (tactile bump for feedback), and the louder Cherry MX Blue (tactile bump and audio click).

Logitech’s Gaming Software will allow you to assign custom macros (12 options using the function keys) to simplify frequently used command sequence s. You can also disable keys, including the Windows key, which is pre-programmed to shut off while in game mode. Additionally, backlight options can be set specific to individual keys.

You can adjust the rubber feet under your keyboard to 0, 4, or 8 degrees to align with your ergonomic preferences. Multi-media controls that include a roller bar for adjusting the volume, 26-key rollover for anti-ghosting, and a braided cord for durability help to round out the many features of the moderately priced Logitech G610 Orion.

Amazon user

“Everything works great. The cherry mx red switches are satisfying, the media keys work with most applications I've tried it in. The software to set and change the light pattern is simple and easy to use with a good amount of control over it. The whole thing has a very solid build quality with just a little heft to it. And the style is simple enough that it doesn't look overly "gamer"-y. I got it when it was half off but even full price isn't too bad for a mechanical keyboard of this build quality.” The Logitech G610 Orion offers enough features for serious gamers at a price that won’t put a serious hurt on your wallet.The Logitech G610 Orion offers three different options for key switches – the quieter Cherry MX Red (linear keypress), Cherry MX Brown (tactile bump for feedback), and the louder Cherry MX Blue (tactile bump and audio click).Logitech’s Gaming Software will allow you to assign custom macros (12 options using the function keys) to simplify frequently used command sequence s. You can also disable keys, including the Windows key, which is pre-programmed to shut off while in game mode. Additionally, backlight options can be set specific to individual keys.You can adjust the rubber feet under your keyboard to 0, 4, or 8 degrees to align with your ergonomic preferences. Multi-media controls that include a roller bar for adjusting the volume, 26-key rollover for anti-ghosting, and a braided cord for durability help to round out the many features of the moderately priced Logitech G610 Orion.Amazon user Will Poorman says:

Best Crossover Image: amazon The Good Smart tools for notifications • Bright RBG • Durable build Smart tools for notifications • Bright RBG • Durable build The Bad Price • Plastic keys Price • Plastic keys The Bottom Line The Das Keyboard X50Q is a “Smart” choice for versatility. The Das Keyboard X50Q is a “Smart” choice for versatility. 6. Das Keyboard X50Q Key type: Gamma Zulu mechanical switches

Gamma Zulu mechanical switches Size: 17.77 x 6.63 x 1.28 in

17.77 x 6.63 x 1.28 in Features: Soft-tactile switches, Smart Keyboard Q Software, ultra-enhanced brightness, Detachable palm rest, media controls, programmable $198.90 from Amazon

The gaming features are not sacrificed on this versatile keyboard, which features Gamma Zulu mechanical switches that offer a tactile feel and operate quickly. The Das Keyboard X50Q boasts that the switch will last for (Dr. Evil voice) 100 million keystrokes. The ultra-bright RGB lighting under each key is designed to display in the daylight, and unlimited, customizable lighting profiles are available.

Full N-key rollover, a detachable wrist rest, and solid aluminum build will keep your game play flowing. The keys are made from ABS Plastic, a quality material for the price point.

Amazon customer

“This keyboard has quickly found its way in front of the gaming computer, which is also occasionally used for light office duties. It's been utterly exceptional at both of them, and I honestly wish we'd bought it a year ago. The kids love playing minecraft on it as it's super responsive.” The Das Keyboard X50Q is more than just a gaming keyboard because some us even have jobs and social lives. It lets you juggle those other aspects of your life while maintaining a strong gaming focus. Don’t miss a beat while you are gaming – receive email alerts, Twitter notifications – all without stopping gameplay through Das Keyboard Q Software. Notifications can even be color-coded based on selected keys. A personalized dashboard keeps all your notifications in one place. You can quickly and easily view them all by pressing Q (volume knob) on the dedicated multimedia section of the keyboard.The gaming features are not sacrificed on this versatile keyboard, which features Gamma Zulu mechanical switches that offer a tactile feel and operate quickly. The Das Keyboard X50Q boasts that the switch will last for (Dr. Evil voice) 100 million keystrokes. The ultra-bright RGB lighting under each key is designed to display in the daylight, and unlimited, customizable lighting profiles are available.Full N-key rollover, a detachable wrist rest, and solid aluminum build will keep your game play flowing. The keys are made from ABS Plastic, a quality material for the price point.Amazon customer Digital Nomad says: