Gaming is a beast all on its own. Gamers will testify to the fact that you can’t go anywhere without the right components. Sure, you could very well go forward with stock parts, much like car collectors try to go for stock, but when the latest and greatest video game comes out, your old system won’t handle all the rendering. Aside from getting the best possible hardware, you’ll want to invest in peripherals. That means you’ll need a good gaming mouse and a real keyboard. Without a high-quality gaming keyboard, you will lose, it’s that simple. Intuitive layout, key design, lighting, and so many little nuances go into these, and they are worth every penny. There are a few things to consider before you plop any amount of money.
1. The Importance of Size
The standard keyboard, the one that comes with most entry-level laptops and keyboards are not grand. When you put your hands on the home keys, your thumbs will nearly touch. Typing at an angle and moving forward with frantic keystrokes will not only pose difficulty, but it will also, in fact, slow down your game. There’re no two ways about it; you’re going to find this to be grueling when amidst enemy fire. The length and width of a gaming option should allow your hands to separate so that your thumbs are not close together. This may not seem compelling, but it’s important. Even if you’re only using one side of the keyboard for direction, the spacing is very crucial to how you progress in any modern game.
2. Wireless Functionality
Wireless functionality is a crucial aspect to consider when selecting a gaming keyboard. Being tethered to your computer by a cable can cause your gameplay to suffer in various ways. Firstly, having a cable running across your desk can be cumbersome and create an obstacle when you’re trying to make quick movements with your mouse. Secondly, if you’re in the middle of an intense gaming session and accidentally tug on the cable, it can cause the keyboard to shift or even disconnect, leading to frustrating interruptions.
With wireless functionality, you can enjoy complete freedom of movement and flexibility during gameplay. You won’t have to worry about getting tangled up in cables or pulling your keyboard out of position. Additionally, if you need to move your keyboard to a different location, you can easily do so without having to unplug any cables.
However, it’s important to note that wireless keyboards can sometimes experience latency issues, which can impact your gameplay. Make sure to select a gaming keyboard with reliable wireless technology that offers minimal lag and interference. It’s also recommended to keep a wired connection as a backup in case of any connectivity issues.
3. Extra Keys
Many gaming keyboards are now offering extra keys for more functionality. These keys can be used for launching apps and controlling your volume and if the keyboard is offering keys customization option, then you can assign some serious gaming controls to the extra keys. In most cases, the extra keys are placed above the F1 key set.
4. Warranty Information
This may not be a grand point of interest, but you’ll find that a high-end gaming keyboard is going to cost upwards of hundreds of dollars. If you’re going to pay that kind of loot, then make sure that you get a rock-solid warranty. If any little component goes awry; you need a replacement or your money back. If not a lifetime solution, then at least a year’s worth of guarantee. You cannot allow yourself to get into hardcore gaming without having this in place.
5. Pricing
Hard to digest truth is, many gaming keyboards won’t come at a budget-friendly price. If you go for a cheaper alternative then you have to sacrifice the quality. A below $100 keyboards mostly come with basic features and good sensitivity. The look and feel of these keyboards just remember the traditional mechanical keyboards. These keyboards offer good keys position, tapping comfort, and sensitivity.
6. Illumination
When it comes to gaming keyboards, we have seen plenty of keyboards with fancy illumination. Many gamers generally look for stylish and fancy RGB backlighting. These colors look stylish and you can’t miss a single stroke even a dark room. It is helpful to figure out the game commands easily.
When in doubt, purchase two of them, and make sure that you’re mastering the layout of the keys. Do not just play with your standard keyboard. Take your time, read reviews, and make sure that you keep in mind the length, width, and comparable peripherals that play companion to your style of the game. If you do not rely on a higher-end solution, you will have a hard time against some of the better players in the pantheon of gameplay that exists today.
7. Anti-Ghosting Technology
When you’re gaming, you want to make sure that every keystroke registers with precision and accuracy. Anti-ghosting technology ensures that when multiple keys are pressed simultaneously, they all register without any interference. This is particularly important for fast-paced games where you need to execute multiple commands at once.
8. Switch Type
Gaming keyboards typically come with two types of switches: mechanical and membrane. Mechanical switches are preferred by many gamers for their tactile feedback and durability, while membrane switches are quieter and offer a softer touch. It ultimately comes down to personal preference, so make sure to test out both switch types before making a purchase.
9. Macro Keys
Macro keys allow you to program specific commands or actions into a single keystroke. This can be incredibly useful for games with complex controls or for executing repetitive tasks. Some gaming keyboards come with dedicated macro keys, while others allow you to program macros into any key on the keyboard.
10. Build Quality
Gaming keyboards are designed to withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions. Look for keyboards with a sturdy build quality and materials that can withstand heavy use. Some keyboards are even water-resistant, which can be a lifesaver if you accidentally spill your drink during a game.
11. Software Customization
Many gaming keyboards come with software that allows you to customize the keyboard’s settings and lighting. This can include creating custom lighting profiles, programming macros, and adjusting the sensitivity of the keys. Make sure to check if the keyboard you’re interested in has software customization options and if it’s compatible with your operating system.
12. Aesthetics
Lastly, while it may not impact performance, the aesthetics of a gaming keyboard can be important to some gamers. Some keyboards come with RGB lighting that allows you to customize the color of each key, while others have a more minimalist design. Choose a keyboard that appeals to your personal style and complements your gaming setup.