The instant switch type is the most important choice when choosing your new gaming keyboard. Cherry mechanical switches are the most common and most recognized. However, in addition to the options in the offer, several upmarket can choose the expert switch.
Other features you may want to consider are dedicated media controls, macro keys, and whether your preferred keyboard has a USB pass. Full-size keyboards provide the most features and a name pad, but the extra money you pay if you don't have the extra real estate to put one on your desk is invalid. Thankless (no number pads) and compact keyboards can also be an option, especially if you don't take care of all the extra bells and whistles or use any for LED code (how barbaric!)
1. Corsair K95 RGB Platinum
Size: Full size
Wrist rest: Detachable
Backlights: RGB
Pass-through: USB
Media Controls: Dedicated
When you want to go the extra mile and upgrade to the perfect best of the best, it’s hard to find a more premium option than the Corsair K95 Platinum. Despite being cautious, this is a great keyboard: some desks need to be cleaned for its huge footprint before it can be comfortably housed. However, according to the features, K95 Platinum got it. Dedicated media control and a USB pass-throw, a metallic volume wheel, RGB lighting. It even comes with extra set textured key-caps for WASD keys. Despite the fact that it is expensive, it is clear what you are getting for your money here and in 2019 and between 2020 we have seen that the price of K95 is declining steadily.
We also love its detachable wrist rest, which makes things great for long gaming sessions (and this keyboard is really great for long-term strategy and MMO sessions). The rubberized wrist pad attaches magnetically and has two contrasting textures: a smooth side and a rough side. Switching sides is as easy as turning it upside down and the extra additions it brings are exceptional.
2. Razer Cynosa Chroma
Interface: Wired USB
Keyboard backlighting: Per-key RGB
Programmable keys: All
Features: Per key RGB lighting, supports Windows 7+ and OSX 10.8+
Even if the mesh-membrane keys don't suit you and you claim a full membrane typing / gaming experience, the Razor Sinosa deck is for you. I know there are people who like the soft embrace of the authentic membrane switch and it’s good. We do not judge. Each is their own and all.
And the Sinosa has a bit of a good feel, the low profile membrane keys I've tested anyway, and at a retail price of $ 60 is one of the most reasonable gaming consoles out there (well, past a specific limit of value). While it may lack some of the features packed into several gaming boards these days, stuffed like a dedicated wrist rest or media controls, it boasts a razor-wide RGB light, which can be programmed on a per-key basis or applied by regions.
This is a solid, non-frills, great looking keyboard which is the best membrane option in the huge range I tested. A step-up version of Sinosa is available, but the only real addition to the 20 extra is RGB Under Global, so unless this kind of 'Ground Effects' package appeals to you widely, I suggest you save your cash and invest base. Model.
3. SteelSeries Apex Pro
Image credit: Steelseries
Switch: Omni point Adjustable
Size: Full size
Backlights: 16.8 million color RGB
Pass-through: Single USB
Media Controls: Dedicated via OLED
Wrist rest: Detachable
magnetic Switch: Omni point Adjustable
Size: Full size
Backlights: 16.8 million color RGB
Pass-through: Single USB
Media Controls: Dedicated via OLED
Wrist rest: Detachable magnetic
The Apex Pro can be built around a title feature (the ability to set the layout individually for each key) but it's an incredibly solid, competitive gaming keyboard without even that ground-breaking customization. That said, adjusting the actuation point on a key-by-key basis is an incredible gift, especially for anyone who separates their time between typing and gaming.
If you find yourself struggling to decide between linear and sensitive switches, Apex Pro offers you a hybrid that can meet both needs in the same model. Set a deeper actuation for typing or higher when you need spam keys in a MOBA or MMO. Or if you find that you have frequently accidentally nailed a special key and blown your cold down, you can set it individually so that you have to get down so you need to stop it on purpose.
The Apex Pro features a novel OLED feature in the top right corner of the board that lets you change the equation (although across the board as well; requires still-series engine software in per-key settings), manages media controls, and even displays a small animated GF. It's more fun than any requirement, it allows you to change some key settings without going too deep into any individual software suite. And the lower profile of the chassis with higher key-caps contributes to a very attractive aesthetic without wasting any unnecessary space around the edges of the board.
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