A computer is worthless without a way to interact with it. So finding the best gaming keyboard is crucial. After all, it doesn’t matter if you own a high-end PC if you’re constantly frustrated by its controls.
Wireless gaming keyboards have had a poor reputation in the past because of their high latency and connectivity issues. However, they have since caught up to their wired counterparts. You can get the same mechanical switches, and they are no less feature-rich. It is possible to use most of them wirelessly (if not all of them). So even if you’re playing at a desk, it may be worth getting one just to get the extra functionality.
Wireless keyboards are a bit more expensive than wired models. However, besides price, there are other things to consider:
Connectivity - Wireless keyboards typically connect either via 2.4 GHz with an included dongle or via Bluetooth. Some can use both, but if you buy a Bluetooth-only keyboard, make sure your computer has a Bluetooth radio. Many desktop motherboards do not have Bluetooth built in. If this is the case, you will need to purchase a dongle or expansion card to connect to a Bluetooth keyboard.
Layout - You can choose from several layouts when purchasing a wireless keyboard. Full-size and keyless (TKL) keyboards are the most popular, but there are many others. Be careful, or you may find that you have purchased a model that is missing a button that you use frequently.
Weight - One of the significant advantages of a wireless keyboard is its portability. However, depending on the size of the battery and the materials used in its construction, a wireless keyboard can be heavy. Therefore, if you plan to move it around a lot, you may have to sacrifice build quality to save weight.
Now it’s time to find the best wireless gaming keyboard for you. We’ve chosen a wide variety of form factors, so there should be something for everyone below.
1. Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro
The Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro is a full-sized keyboard that is a must have for many gamers. It has three different connection modes. The “HyperSpeed Wireless” mode ensures lag-free performance when gaming, but you can also use Bluetooth or USB-C. It comes with either Razer’s exclusive green switches, which are clickable with noticeable activation, or the yellow switches, which have linear activation and silent operation.
Of course, since this is a gaming keyboard, you need RGB, and this model comes with Razer’s Chroma lighting. Unfortunately, this feature significantly reduces battery life, so you’ll want to disable it if you want to extend your time between charges. There are also no dedicated macro keys, which will be a negative for gamers who use them a lot.
The BlackWidow V3 Pro offers the same performance as its wired counterparts with minimal compromise. Between its many features and excellent build quality, there’s not much to be desired here.
2. Keychron K2
There are many keyboards on the market, but Keychron has a few that are better than Logitech and Razer. The K2 strikes an excellent balance between functionality and size with its 84-key layout. It’s compact enough that those who play on a couch can use it comfortably, but it still includes function keys and other essential keys not always found on a keyboard of this size.
The K2 doesn’t include 2.4GHz connectivity, but its Bluetooth is incredibly reliable. It can also connect via USB-C if you need to charge it or use it with a computer without Bluetooth. Its biggest flaw is that it’s hard to remember all the shortcuts you can use to enter the missing keys in this layout. Also, the software used for remapping keys, creating macros, and changing lighting settings is not as sophisticated as some of the larger manufacturers.
Buy: Keychron K2
3. Razer Turret
Connecting a PC to a living room TV is an increasingly popular option. However, using a keyboard and mouse on a couch can be frustrating. As anyone who’s ever tried it can tell you, the biggest problem is keeping the mouse from falling off when you’re not holding it. Fortunately, the Razer Turret is a solution specifically designed for this problem. This keyboard and mouse combo connects via a 2.4 GHz USB receiver. In addition, the keyboard has a retractable magnetic mat that prevents the mouse from slipping when you use it.
There are some inherent problems with using a solution like this. With the mouse pad extended, it can still be difficult to hold comfortably, even though it is more compact than similar solutions. Also, the magnetized mouse keeps it from falling off, but it also adds a subtle resistance that can be a pain for some people. However, the Razer Turret is the best attempt at this type of product to date and it far outshines its competitors.
Buy: Razer Turret
4. Logitech G915 TKL
Logitech’s G915 TKL falls between the BlackWidow V3 and the K2 in terms of size. If you’re looking for something compact, but not as narrow as the K2, this model fits the bill. It has arguably the best build quality of any keyboard on this list. Its slim chassis may seem flimsy at first, but once you pick it up, the weight and rigidity of the aluminum chassis let you know it’s built to last. Of course, for some, this may be a negative. It’s heavy compared to the K2 but doesn’t offer much more functionality than Keychron’s offering for the extra space it occupies.
We have made some sacrifices compared to the G915. The Numpad is gone, and it also loses the dedicated macro keys. Unfortunately, this doesn’t translate into big savings, as the G915 TKL is only $20 cheaper than its big brother. So unless you have limited space, you’re better off going with a larger keyboard.
Buy: Logitech G915 TKL
5. Lenovo ThinkPad TrackPoint II keyboard
The Lenovo ThinkPad TrackPoint Keyboard II may seem like a rebel product for this list. However, it has an increasingly rare feature, which is a built-in mouse. So if you’re gaming from your couch and also want to use your computer as a HTPC, this keyboard can do double duty, and you won’t have to pull out your mouse every time you want to watch a movie or TV show.
The TrackPoint Keyboard II is not a mechanical keyboard, but the membrane switch is far from soft and makes a pleasant sound when activated. The only problem with this keyboard is that it’s becoming increasingly rare, so prices fluctuate.
Buy: Lenovo ThinkPad TrackPoint II keyboard
