#1
Best gaming keyboards: the tier list
Gaming keyboards ranked S to C by aggregated pro reviews, from budget mechanicals to rapid-trigger magnetic boards.
SMeta
AGreat
#2
BGood
#3
COkay
Nothing in C tier right now.
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How to choose a gaming keyboard
Switch type. Magnetic (Hall effect) switches allow adjustable actuation and rapid trigger, the current meta for competitive shooters. Mechanical switches come in linear, tactile and clicky flavors and are the classic choice. Membrane keyboards are cheapest but feel mushier.
Size. 60% and 65% boards maximize mouse space. TKL (tenkeyless) keeps the arrow and function keys, and full-size adds a number pad.
Build and software. Hot-swappable sockets let you change switches later. Good software (or web-based configuration) makes remapping and actuation settings painless.
FAQ
What is rapid trigger and do I need it?
Rapid trigger lets a key reset as soon as it starts moving back up, instead of at a fixed point. It makes counter-strafing and quick taps in shooters snappier. It's a real advantage in tactical FPS games and less important elsewhere.
Which keyboard size is best for gaming?
Smaller layouts (60-75%) free up desk space for wide mouse movements. Full-size boards keep the number pad. Competitive FPS players tend to prefer compact boards.