Depending on the daily use of your computer, the best mechanical keyboard can make all the difference. The needs of competitive gamers are different than someone who focuses on video or photo editing. Gaming keyboards may require fewer tactile keys, which are easier to press. Meanwhile, video and photo editors may require an additional dial or specific macro functionality. Some users may need something easy to use and affordable. Wired or wireless, even connectivity can matter outside of feature sets. There is something for everyone's efficiency needs. However, there are some underlying attributes that make a great keyboard regardless of its purpose. This includes factors such as build quality, durability, and value for money. In an effort to help readers avoid spending hours online searching for the right setup, TechRadar has provided our list of the top five keyboards for any situation.
1. Razer Huntsman Elite
Interface: wired | Keyboard backlight: yes | Programmable Keys: Yes Quick Key Switches Incredible Design Requires Two USB Ports As if mechanical switches weren't enough, Razer takes the best qualities of switches and combines them with light-speed optical technology, resulting in the opto-mechanical switches that make the Razer Huntsman Elite the keyboard to beat. True to its namesake, this mechanical keyboard is as fast and accurate as a hunter, delivering super-fast actuation thanks to an optical light sensor located inside each switch. However, it's not just performance that makes it the best mechanical keyboard of 2019. The Razer Huntsman Elite is also packed with features, namely a multi-function digital dial with three tactile media keys, a luxurious leatherette magnetic wrist rest . , -fly macros, and onboard hybrid memory and cloud storage to save all your profile settings. It's not the cheapest of mechanical keyboards, but it's definitely worth every penny. Read the full review: Razer Huntsman Elite
2. Steel Series Apex Pro
Interface: wired | Keyboard backlight: yes | Programmable Keys: Yes Beautiful build Custom order Expensive Just like Razer, SteelSeries also has a trick up its sleeve when it comes to its mechanical switches. This time, the device maker takes mechanical switches and gives them the ability to customize them. These one-of-a-kind adjustable switches have customizable sensitivity levels, meaning you can fine-tune key actuation to truly personalize your gaming and typing experience. Whether you prefer light touches or deep presses, you can tune the SteelSeries Apex Pro to your preference. But that is not all. This keyboard also boasts an extremely fast response time and is twice as durable as its rivals. Its smart OLED display and integrated command center display relevant information like settings, profiles, and updates. Finally, its dedicated media controls are also unique in that one of them is a clickable metal scroll. Like the Razer Huntsman Elite, this one doesn't come cheap, so be prepared to shell out some cash. Read the full review: SteelSeries Apex Pro
Roccat Vulcan 3 Aimo
A mechanical keyboard with a special touch.Interface: wired | Keyboard backlight: yes | Programmable Keys: Yes Great Design Comfortable Keyswitches Expensive Who says you can't look stylish with a gamer look? Roccat's Vulcan 122 Aimo certainly proves the opponents wrong. One of the best by far, this gaming keyboard is not only fun to touch and comfortable to type on, but it's also one of the smartest mechanical keyboards we've seen with its floating keys. , illuminated by Titan switches. , anodized aluminum plate and Roccat AIMO lightweight motor. And did we mention that instead of the usual black, it sports a silver-on-white color scheme? I would gladly pay its somewhat high price for its design alone. Of course, it takes more than beauty to make our list of the best mechanical keyboards. Performance is always the key, which this keyboard offers more than. These fast and precise Titan switches are designed for gamers, with a tactile and quiet 1.8mm actuation point and a 1000Hz polling rate to start. Read the full review: Roccat Vulcan 122 Aimo
4. Razer Huntsman Tournament Edition
Interface: wired, wireless | Keyboard backlight: yes | Programmable Keys: Yes Fast Switches Detachable Cable Expensive When it comes to gaming, whether it's gaming laptops or gaming peripherals, Razer is at the top of its game, so it's no surprise that two of them make our list. Of the best mechanical keyboards, the Huntsman Tournament Edition ranks fourth. While many gaming keyboards have a full set of keys, including the number pad, this one takes a small, compact approach that foregoes the aforementioned keys entirely. If you're looking for a small keyboard for your small office, this is a winner, as it doesn't compromise on speed and accuracy despite its small bezel. The Huntsman Tournament Edition, of course, has Razer's impressive opto-mechanical switches, as well as durability of up to 100 million keystrokes, proving once again that big things can come in small packages. There aren't many features here, but sometimes simplicity is king. Read the full review: Razer Huntsman Tournament Edition
5. Havit low profile mechanical keyboard
Affordability in a slim bodyInterface: wired | Keyboard backlight: yes | Programmable keys: yes Customizable keys Thin and light design. Loud If you're a fan of finesse and lightness, the slim form factor of the Havit low-profile mechanical keyboard will appeal to you. This sleek, ultra-slim mechanical keyboard may not look like much, due to its lack of gloss and slick keycaps, but it certainly earned its place on our list of the best mechanical keyboards. Not only is it amazing under your fingers when typing or gaming, but it also has fully programmable keys (all 104), a shorter but satisfying travel, and fun presets and lighting controls you should have. hard to see in many of his rivals. On top of that, it's also very accurate and super responsive, perfect for all gamers, especially those who like to experiment with RGB lighting. Although honestly, this keyboard is so good that you'll want to use it for productivity too... as long as you don't mind all the clicking. Read the full review: Havit Low Profile Mechanical Keyboard
6. Alienware Pro Gaming Keyboard
Tournament ready and affordableInterface: wired | Keyboard backlight: yes | Switches: Cherry MX Brown Affordable Cherry MX Brown switches Looks great Strange macro key placement No dedicated media buttons Those not looking to pay top dollar for a gaming keyboard may find the Alienware Pro Gaming Keyboard mileage. With possibly odd macro key placement and no dedicated media buttons, it offers excellent gaming performance, due to the fact that the Cherry MX Brown switches offer a 1-millisecond polling rate. Durability is also acceptable with keys designed to last up to 50 million keystrokes. With a look more inspired by Alienware's own gaming desktops, like the Aurora R7, this keyboard offers affordable brains and beauty. Read the full review: Alienware Pro Gaming Keyboard
7. Logitech G213 Prodigy
Impress in several key areasInterface: wired | Keyboard backlight: yes | Switches: Cherry MX Brown
Satisfying and impressive typing action. Lots of multimedia keys Lots of features elsewhere Poor build quality Disappointing lighting Those interested in spending around $50 or more for a keyboard should take a look at the Logitech G213 Prodigy. For daily typing and casual gaming, it's above average. It helps that the keyboard has awesome volume control and other cool media control keys. Logitech's G Hub also supports the keyboard to adjust RGB lighting and function keys, among other features. Furthermore, the G213 is also splash-proof despite having a poor build quality. Read the full review: Logitech G213 Prodigy
8. Logitech G915 Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The best wireless gaming keyboard you can buyInterface: wireless | Keyboard backlight: yes | Switches: Low-profile GL switches Good performance Solid battery life Customizable macros via G Hub Slim design makes it somewhat uncomfortable for long sessions. Expensive Competitive gamers looking to maintain a wireless edge can turn to the $915 Logitech G250 keyboards. The keyboard offers phenomenal performance thanks to its low-profile switches available in GL Tactile, GL Linear, and GL Clicky options. Compatible with 2.4Ghz dongle and Bluetooth, the G915 also comes with 30 hours of fully charged battery life and can be fully recharged in three hours. Those looking for macro customization can also use Logitech's G Hub software.