PC gamer best mechanical keyboard 2019

PC gamer best mechanical keyboard

Any keyboard can work for gaming, but when people talk about gaming keyboards they generally mean the kind that provides a gaming mode to disable the Windows key, offers multicolored backlighting, and gives you the ability to record macros—a series of keystrokes you can trigger with a single key. You can find two main types of gaming keyboards: mechanical and membrane. Mechanical keyboards (PC gamer best mechanical keyboard) use an independent switch for each key. This design makes the keys more durable and allows them to register a keypress faster than the keys on most membrane keyboards, and many people find them more pleasant to use.

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Membrane keyboards are sometimes less expensive and much quieter, but they feel mushy and wear out faster than mechanical ones. Most people should buy a mechanical gaming keyboard because such models are more durable; in addition, the budget options aren’t that much more expensive than an RGB membrane keyboard.


Top 9 PC gamer best mechanical keyboard

There are lot of PC gamer best mechanical keyboard brand in market like SteelSeries, Cooler Master, Corsair, Razer, Logitech and Alienware etc.

1. SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – best keyboard mechanical gaming

The SteelSeries Apex Pro’s svelte aesthetic and clever OLED display are just the appetizers. The SteelSeries Apex Pro gets our coveted 5-star rating for many reasons, the biggest of which are its stunning and solid build, custom actuation and comfortable – not to mention, quiet – magnetic switches. Performance-wise, it’s among the best gaming keyboards (PC gamer best mechanical keyboard) we’ve tested yet, which makes its $194 price tag worth the splurge.

The Apex Pro mechanical keyboard solves the shortcomings of gaming keyboards thanks to omnipoint mechanical switches, which are guaranteed for 100 million keypresses. Each individual key can be tweaked to meet your desired actuation, from the world’s fastest feather light touches, to deep and typo-free presses, and anything in between, allowing you to play more accurately, quickly, and confidently. An integrated OLED Smart display with on-board storage is your integrated Command center for on-the-fly info from your game, music, or Discord, and provides software-free customization for tweaking and saving your settings. An unbreakable aluminum alloy frame makes it the ultimate keyboard for enthusiasts who don’t want to settle.


2. Best budget mechanical keyboard gaming – Razer Huntsman Elite #1 Selling US Gaming Keyboard

The Razer Huntsman Elite, one of the top 9 PC gamer best mechanical keyboard, the #1 selling gaming keyboard in the U.S. (Source: NPD Group, Inc., Jan.-May 2019). introduces the new Razer Opto-Mechanical Switch, utilizing optical technology for unmatched speed, and a key stabilizer bar so every keypress is precise and accurate. Combined with a new switch design, it’s the first click switch that actuates and resets at the exact same point for rapid performance. The keyboard also features a programmable digital dial for quick access to functions. Personalize settings with hybrid on-board memory and cloud storage. Comes with an ergonomic wrist rest for long-lasting comfort.

If you have the need for speed, then the Huntsman Elite is your best bet, thanks to its new optomechanical switches. That sounds like a mouthful, but essentially, it means that Razer has managed to combine mechanical switches with optical sensors. This unthinkable allows the Huntsman Elite to take its actuation to the next level, and you would be hard-pressed to find a faster keyboard on the market. Switches aside, it’s also remarkably comfortable to type on. Plus, it’s covered with more RGB lighting than you can shake a stick at. Sure, it needs two USB cables for power and costs a small fortune, but with tech like this, it’s absolutely worth it.


3. Logitech G513 RGB Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 

Take your game to a new level with Logitech G513, PC gamer best mechanical keyboard, a high performance RGB mechanical gaming keyboard that features advanced technologies in a modern and sleek design. Romer-G Linear mechanical keyswitches deliver super-fast 1 millisecond responsiveness from keypress to screen—25 percent faster than competitor’s traditional mechanical switches. Tactile mechanical keyboard switches are engineered to give you direct feedback so you feel the actuation point in each keypress. Customize full-spectrum RGB lighting for any or every key from 16.8 million brilliant colors.

LIGHTSYNC technology takes the lighting experience to a whole new level with game-driven lighting colors and effects. A USB passthrough port makes it easy to plug in your mouse, flash drive or phone for direct data transmission or charging. The aluminum alloy top case enables a bladelike chassis with a beautiful brushed metal finish while the durable Memory Foam palmrest keeps your hands and wrists comfortable and in the perfect position to tap keys with lightning fast accuracy. Use Logitech Gaming Software to easily program a full row of Function keys to put lighting, volume, media control and more at your fingertips.

One of the biggest issues with Cherry MX Red keys is that even though they’re good for gaming, they’re not really ideal for typing anything other than your Steam credentials. That’s exactly why the Logitech G513 and its Romer-G Linear switches steal the show. With its brushed metal finish that is, miraculously, practically immune to fingerprints, it all adds up to one of the best gaming keyboards to date.


4. Alienware Pro Gaming Keyboard AW768 – PC gamer best mechanical keyboard

Shockingly good value

Alienware-Pro-Gaming-Mechanical-Keyboard

Dell Alienware Pro Gaming Mechanical Keyboard AW768 – AlienFX 16.8M RGB 13 zone-based Lighting – 15 programmable macro key functions

Introducing all-new Alienware keyboard featuring the iconic design you trust for exhilarating, immersive gaming. Whether you’re just starting your collection, or rounding out your arsenal, Alienware accessories are built to enhance your gaming experience as you journey deeper into the game.

The iconic Alienware design brings an added layer of imposing style with a zone-based AlienFX RGB backlight that adds an unearthly glow to your keys. AlienFX is designed to bring you closer to the worlds you play in with dynamic lighting effects tied directly to the in-game action. Enable static animations and take complete zonal control for a more customized experience.

Features:

  • Iconic Alienware design with AlienFX 16.8M RGB 13 zone-based Lighting
  • Brown mechanical keys
  • 50million cycle life
  • 45g actuation force
  • 60g tactile force
  • 2mm actuation distance
  • 4mm total travel distance
  • Less than 5ms bounce time (during actuation speed of 0.4 m/s)
  • 1000 Hz (1ms) polling rate
  • Anti-Ghosting and N-key rollover on all keys
  • 15 programmable macro key functions with on-the-fly recording
  • All programmable keys
  • 3 adjustable leg angles
  • Multimedia keys
  • Optional Palm Rest (sold separately)
  • 256kB onboard memory
  • Dedicated volume roller
  • Braided nylon cable.

Increased control and accuracy

Smooth, responsive game play:

Anti-ghosting and N-key rollover on all keys, and mechanical switches with 50 million keyboard life cycle, onboard memory and 15 programmable macro key functions with on-the-fly recording means your keyboard lives longer while you increase your kill speed with improved keystroke rates and accuracy.

Bring a competitive edge to every game:

Mechanical brown switches are designed with all gamers in mind—from novice to expert. They deliver solid tactile feedback with low actuation force and low click noise. Plus multimedia keys mean you have even more shortcuts at your disposal—like a dedicated audio roller.


5. Cooler Master MasterSet MS120 – another PC gamer best mechanical keyboard

Cooler-Master-MasterSet-MS120-Gaming-Keyboard

Cooler Master MasterSet MS120 Gaming Keyboard & Mouse Combo, Floating, Clicky Full RGB LED Backlit, On the Fly

The MasterSet MS120 Combo is your first step to high level gaming, with two tools to help you elevate your skills. It includes a durable keyboard outfitted with Mem-chanical Clicky switches, which abandon the mushiness of membranes for the tactile satisfaction of mechanical keyboards. It also comes with a durable mouse to last you through your heated skirmishes, with a Pixart optical sensor, adjustable DPI settings on-the-fly, and responsive pro-grade Omron switches to maximize DPS. Add in RGB capability for looks and easy multimedia keys for convenience, and you have everything in your arsenal to go on a killing streak.

Not everything has to be super high-end to be good, and the Cooler Master MasterSet MS120 is the perfect example. Though this one’s a keyboard and mouse set, the keyboard is the star of the show. Sitting at just under a hundred bucks, the MasterSet’s keyboard is affordable while being up there with its more premium ‘mem-chanical’ competitors in terms of quality. The switches on offer bring a ton of tactile feedback and deep travel. It’s quiet as well, so you can furiously pounding away during an intense late-night Overwatch match without worry. The Cooler Master MasterSet MS120 is, without a doubt, one of the best gaming keyboards under $120.


6. Corsair K63 Wireless Compact Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – cheap wireless keyboard for gaming

The CORSAIR K63 features CHERRY MX Red mechanical key switches for ultimate performance. Brilliant red LED backlighting enhances the experience with dynamic and virtually unlimited lighting adjustability. It has a ten keyless design for better mobility and more room on your desktop. Dedicated volume and multimedia controls allow you to adjust your audio without interrupting your game. 100% anti-ghosting with full key rollover ensures accuracy, so every keystroke translates directly into accurate gameplay. Harness the power of CUE for sophisticated macro programming and dramatic lighting effects and animations. Compatibility- PC with 2 USB 2.0 port, Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, or Windows Vista

We have tested many wired gaming mice over the last few years, but we haven’t seen that many wireless gaming keyboards and even less that we actually liked. That is, until the Corsair K63 Wireless keyboard entered the scene. The computer peripherals company took what made the wired version of the K63 so great, and put it into a wireless version – without compromising on much at all. Packing tight Cherry MX Red switches, full RGB lighting and convenient media controls, the K63 wireless is proof that wireless keyboards can be very capable in 2019, even for gaming.


7. Corsair K95 RGB Platinum – one of the PC gamer best mechanical keyboard

The Rolls Royce of RGB gaming keyboards

Corsair K95 RGB Platinum features Cherry MX Brown key switches backed by a lightweight aluminum frame. 8MB profile storage with hardware macro and lighting playback enable profile access independent of external software. Utilize the 19-zone light edge to add to dramatic animations and effects. Take advantage of the 6 programmable G-keys for in-game macros.

A $159 price tag on a gaming keyboard might a tad too steep, but the Corsair K95 RGB Platinum, one of the best gaming keyboards we’ve tested in the last year, really does give you a lot of ounce for your bounce. We’re not talking the more trivial bells and whistles like fancy RGB lighting either – although since we are on the subject, this one’s got a whole lot of them, not to mention its integrated 19-zone light bar and the 16.8 million color options, to boot. By bang, we actually mean its 6 dedicated macro keys, 8MB on-board storage and aircraft-grade anodized brushed aluminum frame.


8. Roccat Vulcan 120 Aimo

ROCCAT Vulcan 100 – Mechanical RGB Gaming Keyboards, AIMO LED Key Lighting, ROCCAT Titan Switch, Durable Design (Aluminum Top), Multimedia Wheel

The Roccat Vulcan 120 should be at the top of your gaming keyboard wish list, if you want one that looks and feels good. This svelte keyboard uses Roccat’s own Titan switches, rather than the Cherry MX switches found on most other keyboards on this list, and we can vouch for how superb they are. This gaming keyboard combines amazing tactile feedback with quiet and comfort. It really isn’t hard to see why this is one of the best gaming keyboards on the market today.


9. Razer Cynosa Chroma – best gaming keyboard under $50

The Razer Cynosa Chroma, the best-selling gaming membrane keyboard in the US (Source: NPD Group, Inc., Jan.-May 2019),features all the essentials a gamer needs. With soft cushioned, individually programmable backlit keys powered by Razer Chroma—and a spill-resistant design that keeps your keyboard safe—the Cynosa Chroma provides the best performance within its category.

If you’re new to PC gaming and currently in the market for a keyboard that’ll do admirably minus the high price tag that a lot of mechanical keyboards have, the Razer Cynosa Chroma might be for you. It doesn’t have the tactile clickiness of a higher-end keyboard, but its hybrid mesh switches perform well enough, boasting a 1ms polling rate and 10-key rollover. Impressed yet? We haven’t even mentioned the sick RGB lighting. The Razer Cynosa Chroma is one of the best gaming keyboards for PC gaming newbies who might not necessarily want to spend money on the slickest rig just yet.


Buying guide – PC gamer best mechanical keyboard

Since the differences between gaming keyboards and regular keyboards are minor, we focused on the characteristics that set them apart:

Size: We recommend tenkeyless keyboards, especially for gaming, because smaller keyboards allow you to place your mouse closer to your body, which reduces strain on your shoulders, neck, and back. We still looked at full-size options for anyone who prefers them, but tenkeyless is better for most people unless you play games that use the numpad, such as Arma (PDF) or MechWarrior Online. Some gaming keyboards have extra macro keys; these extra keys make a keyboard huge, and we found that they made it hard for us to line our fingers up with the home row when we were typing.

NameTypeActuation forceActuation pointTravel distanceNoise
Razer YellowLinear45 g1.2 mm3.5 mmLow
Cherry MX SpeedLinear45 g1.2 mm4 mmLow
Romer-G LinearLinear45 g1.5 mm3 mmLow
Cherry MX SilentLinear45 g1.9 mm3.7 mmLow
Cherry MX RedLinear45 g2 mm4 mmLow
SteelSeries QX 2Linear45 g2 mm4 mmLow
Romer-G TactileTactile45 g1.5 mm3.2 mmAverage
Cherry MX BrownTactile45 g2 mm4 mmAverage
Razer OrangeTactile55 g1.9 mm4 mmAverage
GX BlueClicky50 g1.9 mm4 mmHigh
Cherry MX BlueClicky50 g2.2 mm4 mmHigh
Razer GreenClicky55 g1.9 mm4 mmHigh

Actuation force refers to how hard you have to press a key for it to trigger a keypress.

Switch options: Mechanical switches come in different varieties. Tactile ones, such as Cherry MX Brown, have a bump you feel when you actuate the key. Clicky switches like Cherry MX Blue have an audible click in addition to the bump. Linear switches like Cherry MX Red have neither a bump nor a click, instead offering a smooth travel preferable for gaming, though Reds can feel too light for most people to type on. MX Speed and Razer Yellow switches have a higher actuation point, which can make keypresses faster because you don’t have to push the key as far down. All these differences between switches can get pretty confusing. Cherry MX Brown and Cherry MX Red and their non-Cherry equivalents are the two most popular mechanical switch types for gaming, and we preferred keyboards with at least those two switch types.

Build quality and design: If you press too hard on the deck of a cheap keyboard, the frame flexes. A sturdier keyboard doesn’t. And a removable cable lets you easily swap it out if it frays or breaks, which is especially useful if you travel with your keyboard often. Paying a little extra for a well-built keyboard gets you something that lasts longer and feels better to use, but if build quality is the most important feature to you, consider a regular mechanical keyboard instead because they tend to focus on quality over lighting features or software.

Keyboards have one of two types of frame: a “high-profile” frame that sets the keys within a plastic case, or a “low-profile” frame that has the keys “floating” on top. Neither is better than the other. High-profile frames offer more control over RGB lighting because the colors don’t bleed between the keys as much. Low-profile frames are easier to clean because dust can’t get trapped anywhere and the RGB lighting tends to be much brighter.

Gaming mode: This important feature disables the Windows key so you don’t accidentally pull up the Start menu and knock yourself out of a game.

RGB lighting: Multicolored lighting is a defining characteristic of gaming keyboards. We looked for vibrant RGB LEDs that are easy to customize with or without software.

Software: Gaming keyboards usually come with software to program macros and create lighting effects. You should be able to save these settings to the keyboard or the cloud so you can move configurations between computers, but we prefer setups that don’t require you to have an account to use these features. Although Windows compatibility is more important, we looked for Mac compatibility too; all the keyboards here will work on either operating system without software, but sometimes without software you can’t customize lights or macros.

Macro recording: You should at least be able to record macros using the keyboard’s software, but it’s even better if the keyboard includes a system for in-game macro recording. You can use a keystroke to begin the recording and start using the macro right away. Some competitive games, such as League of Legends and many Blizzard games, forbid the use of programmed macros in tournaments and might ban you if you get caught using them online to enhance your performance. But if you want to map, say, the Overwatch communications wheel to your number pad or to special macro keys, that’s fine.

Price: For around $50 to $100, you can get a decent gaming keyboard with non-Cherry switches, or one that’s built with less premium materials, usually a plastic case, cheaper keycaps, or a nonremovable cable. Sometimes, the cheaper options have specific problems, such as a loud squeaking sound when you tap the spacebar or a loose-feeling USB port. For $100 to $200, you can get a better-built keyboard, fancier lighting, and extra features like an included palm rest or extra keycaps in the box.

Gaming keyboards tend to take a kitchen-sink approach when it comes to features, which is reflected in their high price compared with non-gaming keyboards. Most people shouldn’t pay extra for media-control knobs, USB and audio passthrough, or a palm rest.

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