Gaming Keyboards

Why a separate keyboard helps games

In many games you hold several keys at once: one to move, another to run, a third to jump. Some laptop keyboards cannot register every combination, and a missed key is a missed move. A gaming keyboard is built to register what you press, keeps the same feel through long sessions, and lets the laptop sit back on a stand with its screen higher and its vents clear. One here states N-key rollover, which means every key is registered however many are down at once.

Sizes, from full to one-handed

• Full size, 104 or 108 keys, with the number pad on the right.
• Tenkeyless, 87 keys, drops the number pad. The mouse then sits closer, and many players prefer how the right arm rests.
• 75% and 65% keep the arrow keys in a smaller board; one here has a small OLED screen in the corner.
• 60%, 61 keys, drops the arrows and function row too, reached with a second key.
• A one-handed keypad of 35 keys, used with one hand beside the mouse.

For more small boards, see compact keyboards.

Mechanical or "mechanical feel"

Some keyboards here are fully mechanical, with a separate switch under every key. Others are membrane keyboards described as having a mechanical feel. Mechanical switches are named by colour on the product pages, blue, red, brown or black, and the pages say how each one feels. In general terms, linear switches go straight down with no bump, tactile ones have a small bump you feel as the key registers, and clicky ones add a loud click. Clicky switches are the loudest, so avoid them in a shared room or on calls. On a hot-swappable keyboard the switches pull out and can be changed without soldering. There is also a split keyboard kit for people who like to build and tune their own. More are in mechanical keyboards, and replacement sets in keycaps.

Check the layout before you buy

Many gaming keyboards are sold with a US layout, and several here also come in Spanish, Turkish, Arabic or Russian layouts as choices. For a UK layout, look for the pound sign on the 3 key and a tall Enter key, and read which layout each choice is. You can type on a US layout, but some symbols move.

Questions people ask about gaming keyboards

Wired or wireless for games?

Wired never needs charging and never drops a key press. Some here are wireless with their own receiver, which is quick enough for most players.

Do I need a wrist rest?

A wrist rest gives your wrists somewhere soft to rest in front of a taller keyboard.

More to look at

• Mechanical keyboards
• Compact keyboards
• Keycaps
• Wrist rests
• Gaming mice
• Mouse mats and desk mats
• Guide: How to choose a keyboard for your laptop
• Guide: Gaming on a laptop: the mice, keyboards, controllers and cooling that help