It's only a month into 2021, and we're already inundated with the choices available for new gaming keyboards. Consumers have a lot to choose from when it comes to brands, colors, sizes, and special features in this category of computer accesories. It's not a frivolous purchase, either. Your keyboard not only needs to have your needs as a gamer in mind, but it's also an essential part of your computer system and it also has to work well for everything else. Some people even use them for typing.
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Considering how many choices exist that are new to the world just this year, a quick summary that includes some vital stats and information on this year's best gaming keyboards would be helpful. Prices for these keyboards tend to be in the high-end range, however, these are top of the line keyboards that have only been on the market for a few weeks. On the other hand, there are a few stellar choices for gamers on a budget.
10 HyperX Alloy Elite RGB
It's the ideal choice for a gamer with limited desk space and an equally tight budget, retailing for about $65. At first glance, the Hyper X doesn't look very different from other keyboards, but closer inspection reveals a myriad of extra features hidden under a conventional design. The RBG backlight is a customizable feature, and that's in addition to the dedicated media controls and a wrist-rest that detaches to save even more space. The frame is solid and durable but the keys are still whisper-quiet, and when you put this all together it's a great gaming and all-purpose keyboard.
9 Asus ROG Strix Scope
For those gamers that have some extra cash to spend, the Asus ROG Strix Scope keyboard sells for a cool $195. It has everything a gamer requires, and more. Naturally, there are the standard RBG lights and dedicated media controls, along with the all-important direction keys highlighted and an extra-large left Ctrl key for those who like their FPS games. What puts this keyboard in a higher price bracket is the industrial design that includes a durable aluminum top plate that values function over form.
8 Alienware Pro Gaming Keyboard AW768
It's a design that has its ups and downs depending on your personal taste, but either way, the Alienware Pro Gaming keyboard is a good choice for gamers who have desktop space to spare and are keen on slick-looking peripherals. The plastic casing puts some off because that means it's much less durable overall but that depends on what kind of gamer you are.
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Be prepared to shell out close to $200 for this keyboard, which is so popular that it's getting harder to find, and that makes it even more expensive. It helps that it looks good, and its large design means it still has everything your other programs need.
7 SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL
Here's a highly rated keyboard that any gamer would be happy to have, not only because it has everything you need but also because of the emphasis on key actuation in the design. Just be prepared to pay some serious money because the SteelSeries Apex Pro TLK costs almost $180. It has the usual features that include RBG lights, an aluminum top plate, and a dedicated media center that's already designed for programs like Spotify and Discord. There's a whole series of keyboards in this line, and this version is the most expensive, so if you like the concept but don't have the money there are other options.
6 Razer Cynosa Chroma
A multi-use keyboard that isn't just for gamers, the Razer Cynosa Chroma has a lot of handy features that work with a variety of household "smart" devices like Alexa. It's also priced within reach at only $54. The simple design might look standard or even boring, but that's what keeps it affordable, and the extra features like RBG lights and software that synchs up with certain games make up for the rudimentary shape and size. It's an ideal choice if you're looking for a gaming keyboard that is just as useful for other gaming functions and doesn't confuse other users on a shared device with a lot of bells and whistles.
5 Corsair K100 RGB Optical
One look at the Corsair K100 RGB Optical keyboard and you know it's going to be on the high end when it comes to cost. For just over $200, you too can own one of these top-of-the-line peripherals designed with hardcore gamers in mind. If you'd prefer a mechanical version instead of the optical one, it's only $30 more.
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Aside from the standard features this keyboard already has, like the aluminum backing, oversized wrist rest, and RBG lighting, the processing technology means the computer responds to your commands even faster. The iCUE control wheel on the top left allows you to control media, lighting, and other features.
4 Logitech K840
Who says that classic designs don't work? At first glance, this Logitech K840 resembles a much older keyboard, and that's the intention. It's a solid build with an aluminum casing and has all the same programmable keys and media shortcuts as a fancy RBG backlight keyboard does. The standard size and shape are just as useful for games as they are for other programs, making this a good multi-use choice. The price is also decent at almost $60, making it affordable for computer users and gamers of all income brackets.
3 Mountain Everest Max
With a price tag of $270, this one of the more expensive keyboards on the market for anything, let alone for those dedicated to gaming. Don't bother looking for it on websites like Amazon or Mercado Libre, either, as you can only pre-order the Mountain Everest Max directly from the manufacturer. It might seem inconvenient but the process has its advantages. That means you can further customize yours with a specific keycap layout, and every keyboard includes the detachable number pad that can sit on the right or left side. Another unique feature is the media dock, complete with a handy display dial.
2 Roccat Vulcan 120 Aimo
A keyboard that's as much as display as for performance, this is the accessory to impress your gaming and non-gaming friends alike. Its unique design is finished with an aluminum plate for both looks and durability and the lights are LED for long life and energy conservation.
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The Roccat Vulcan 120 Aimo is also resistant to both dust and liquid along with sporting a wide armrest. The dial on the media center is designed more like a stereo knob for easier grip and control. All of the above justifies the impressive price tag of almost $160 dollars, which is pricey but not the most expensive option on the list.
1 Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB
Plenty of hardware designers have been getting even more creative when it comes to spending an extended amount of time at your desk. This is a good keyboard for gaming, typing, or any activity that requires extended time at your desk. For the gamer that's willing to make an investment in personal comfort and long-term health for a price of $175, then the Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB is the best choice. There's a series of these keyboards, and this is the cheapest, with the MX Silver being the most expensive at almost $210.