Introduction:
Gaming keyboards have become increasingly popular over recent years. Gamers around the world swear by the benefits of using such devices to take their gameplay to the next level. But the question remains, are gaming keyboards worth the hype?
We’ve researched multiple brands and models to put together the ultimate verdict on gaming keyboards. This detailed blog post will explore each feature that makes gaming keyboards a must-have for gamers, whether you should invest in one, and the benefits they bring to your gaming experience.
So, are gaming keyboards worth the hype? Read on to find out.
Table of Contents:
1. What are gaming keyboards?
2. Features of the gaming keyboard
a. Mechanical switches
b. Macro keys
c. Backlighting
d. N-Key rollover
e. Anti-ghosting
f. Polling rate
3. Advantages of gaming keyboards
a. Improved accuracy and response time
b. Enhanced comfort and ergonomics
c. Customization
d. Improved durability and longevity
4. Gaming Keyboard Brands and Models
a. Logitech G Pro
b. Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2
c. Corsair K95 RGB Platinum
d. SteelSeries Apex Pro
5. Should you invest in a gaming keyboard?
6. Conclusion
7. FAQ
What are gaming keyboards?
Gaming keyboards are specially designed keyboards that cater to the needs of gamers. These keyboards have specific features that enhance the gaming experience.
Traditional keyboards have a rubber dome that connects with the circuit board, which closes the circuit when pressed. This method results in slower response times and reduced accuracy.
You’ll find that gaming keyboards come equipped with mechanical keys rather than the standard rubber dome. Mechanical keys use individual mechanical switches to register each keystroke, allowing for faster and more accurate input commands.
Features of a Gaming keyboard
Mechanical switches
We briefly mentioned mechanical switches above, and they are arguably the most important feature of gaming keyboards. Mechanical switches have an individual switch for each key, instead of using a rubber dome underneath the keys. This design allows for quicker and more accurate keystrokes that traditional keyboards can’t match.
Macro keys
Macro keys are programmable keys on the keyboard that you can set to perform complex tasks. Macros are especially useful for gamers who need to execute multiple commands simultaneously or for programs that require repetitive tasks.
Backlighting
Backlighting illuminates the keys, making it easier to play in low-light conditions. You can also customize the backlighting to tailor the colors to your preference. There’s nothing quite like seeing your keyboard come to life with vibrant colors when you’re in the thick of a gaming session.
N-Key rollover
Have you ever pressed multiple keys at the same time and noticed that one didn’t register? This issue is called ‘ghosting,’ and it can be a problem for gamers.
Gaming keyboards come equipped with N-Key rollover, which means that you can press as many keys as you want simultaneously without any ghosting issues.
Anti-ghosting
Anti-ghosting takes N-Key rollover a step further by ensuring that each keystroke registers without any lag. It’s particularly useful when you’re involved in a high-speed game and can increase accuracy and response times.
Polling rate
The polling rate determines how fast the keyboard reports its current state to the computer. A higher polling rate reduces input lag, resulting in a smoother gameplay experience.
Advantages of gaming keyboards
Improved accuracy and response time
The fast and accurate keystrokes of gaming keyboards provide a gameplay experience that enhances your overall accuracy and response time. You can react quickly and precisely to in-game events with ease.
Enhanced comfort and ergonomics
Gaming keyboards are designed with comfort and ergonomics in mind. Longer gaming sessions can result in hand fatigue, but the design of gaming keyboards supports better wrist alignment, helping you avoid repetitive strain injuries.
Customization
The ability to customize your gaming keyboard is a fun and convenient feature. You can create personalized macros, choose from a range of colors, and set multiple profiles to suit your unique gaming setup.
Improved durability and longevity
Compared to traditional rubber dome keyboards, mechanical gaming keyboards are designed to withstand heavy usage. With durability and longevity in mind, gaming keyboards are a long-term investment as they can last for years.
Gaming Keyboard Brands and Models
1. Logitech G Pro
The Logitech G Pro features a tenkeyless design, which means it doesn’t have the numeric pad on the right side of the keyboard. This design gives players more room to move their mouse when gaming and frees up valuable desk space. The keyboard is also equipped with an ultra-fast polling rate of 1000Hz, and its low profile mechanical switches provide a comfortable typing experience that’s suitable for heavy usage.
2. Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2
The Razer Blackwidow Chroma V2 features five macro keys that can be programmed, USB and audio pass-through, and Razer’s Chroma lighting that provides 16.8 million customizable colors. The keyboard has a higher than average price tag but delivers a premium gaming experience that is unmatched by other keyboards.
3. Corsair K95 RGB Platinum
The Corsair K95 RGB Platinum features a sleek aluminum frame, 6 programmable macro keys, full RGB backlighting and, 18 programmable G keys for more functionality. The keyboard is also exceptionally durable, with a 100% anti-ghosting and full N-Key rollover.
4. SteelSeries Apex Pro
The SteelSeries Apex Pro’s foremost feature is its adjustable mechanical switch that can be set to suit your preferred actuation point. This unique feature enables you to adjust the gaming experience to your likes. The keyboard also has a magnetic wrist rest, which provides additional comfort during extended gaming sessions.
Should you invest in a gaming keyboard?
The answer to this question depends on your gaming preferences. If you want to take gaming seriously and improve your gaming experience, a gaming keyboard is worth the investment.
Gaming keyboards are designed to enhance your overall gaming experience, contributing to better accuracy and faster response times. With unique features such as backlighting, macros, and improved ergonomics, investing in a gaming keyboard can significantly improve your gaming setup.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we explored whether gaming keyboards are worth the hype. We explored the features that make them stand out from traditional keyboards, the advantages they bring to gaming, and highlighted some top-performing models available in the market.
Ultimately, if you’re serious about gaming, investing in a gaming keyboard can take your gaming experience to the next level. “Are these gaming keyboards worth the hype?” we believe that gaming keyboards are a helpful investment that can vastly improve the gaming experience.
FAQ:
Q: How do I choose the best gaming keyboard for my needs?
A: Look at the features offered by various gaming keyboards, including their mechanical switches, macro keys, backlighting, N-Key rollover, and polling rate. Determine what features are necessary for your gameplay and your budget and select the one that fits your needs.
Q: Are mechanical switches better than rubber dome?
A: Yes, mechanical switches are considered to be faster and more accurate than rubber dome switches.
Q: Can a gaming keyboard improve my gaming skills?
A: Yes, the improved accuracy and response times, along with the enhanced comfort and ergonomics, customization options and support when you press multiple keys simultaneously leads to better gameplay performance.
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