Top 5 Gaming Keyboards You NEED in 2025

It can be difficult to choose the best gaming keyboard for your needs, but we’ll make it easy. Latency (keyboard responsiveness), switch types (keypress feel and noise), and overall build quality, comfort, and feel are the most crucial aspects to take into account. After that, you can choose whether you want extra features like media controls, RGB backlighting, or software customization options to help you personalize your board.

The top mechanical and non-mechanical gaming keyboards are listed below based on our testing of over many keyboards. See our suggestions for the top keyboards, the best TKL, if you’re searching for a keyboard that isn’t exclusively intended for gaming keyboards, or the best mechanical keyboards. Alternatively, if you’re more interested in lighting, see our best RGB keyboards, or if you’re on a strict budget, our best budget gaming keyboards.

QUICK LIST

Last update on 2025-01-20 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

Top 5 Gaming Keyboards You NEED in 2025

1.NuPhy Field75 HE

Last update on 2025-01-20 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

We suggest the NuPhy Field75HE as the top gaming keyboard for the majority of users. Its Hall-effect switches, which allow you to change the actuation distance (sensitivity) of any key, are its most notable feature. With features like mod tap and rapid trigger that can significantly speed up follow-up inputs, its web-based software also offers a variety of customizations that are advantageous in some games, particularly FPS and rhythm games. It has a polling rate of 8000 Hz as well. In the case of the NuPhy, it does help push latency slightly lower and keep it very consistent, but it’s easy to get sucked into the hype surrounding higher polling rates. Remember that although you won’t notice a difference, this can have a significant impact on performance at a highly competitive level and is measurable.

With a robust plastic chassis, PBT keycaps, several layers of acoustic foam, and metal components like a carrying handle and a knurled volume wheel, it offers exceptional build quality in addition to performance. A typing comparison on YouTube shows that both the Gateron Magnetic White and the more costly Magnetic Jade switches are linear and lightweight, but the Jades have a slightly shorter total travel distance and a brighter, clackier sound profile that many people prefer. Additionally, all keys can be fully remapped, and NuPhy recently added macro support for the eight macro keys—a feature that was absent at launch.

After all of that positive feedback, there are drawbacks. First of all, not everyone will like this keyboard’s appearance, and it won’t blend in with all setups. Second, while it has per-key RGB lighting, the keycaps lack shine-through legends and the LEDs are south-facing. If these aren’t dealbreakers, we recommend this keyboard for gamers of all stripes.

The Field series keyboards from NuPhy are being continued with the NuPhy Field75 HE, a wired gaming keyboard. With various additional pieces of hardware, such as a carrying handle, a knurled volume knob, control dials, and customizable buttons, it maintains the same unique appearance as its predecessor, the NuPhy Field75. Although it lacks wireless connectivity like the original, it has a maximum polling rate of 8000 Hz and, unlike its predecessor, uses magnetic Hall-effect switches, which let you adjust the actuation and rapid trigger settings for individual switches. Last but not least, a new web-based tool created internally at NuPhy is used for setting changes and customizing switch actuation settings rather than VIA software.

Although it still has the same appearance, the NuPhy Field75 HE is very different from its predecessor. The Field75 HE is a wired-only model with analog magnetic switches, whereas the original NuPhy Field75 was a simpler wireless gaming keyboard with mechanical switches. With the new analog switches, you can customize the actuation and reset points to fine-tune the behavior of each switch. More sophisticated analog options, like multiple commands mapped to a single key or SOCD, which can prioritize the last key pushed between two keys, are also supported by NuPhy’s software. Although wireless connectivity is not supported by this new model, its overall latency performance and stability are greatly enhanced by its support for a maximum polling rate of 8000Hz.

2.Logitech G715

Last update on 2025-01-20 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

We suggest the Logitech G715 if you’re specifically searching for a wireless gaming keyboard. It provides good overall latency performance even though it lacks adjustable key actuation and polling rates greater than 1000 Hz. Additionally, it provides wireless connectivity, which gives you more setup flexibility and minimizes desktop clutter without compromising performance, in contrast to the other suggestions on this list.

Featuring a soft, cloud-shaped wrist rest, pastel accents, and a lovely ‘underglow’ effect from the frosted RGB lighting strip surrounding the device, this keyboard has a whimsical aesthetic. Clear shine-through RGB key legends are another feature. It’s also a fantastic off-the-box device that feels perfect without the need for programming or adjusting any settings.

Whether you use it wired with the included USB-A to USB-C cable or wirelessly with its USB receiver, it delivers a responsive in-game experience with no noticeable delay, even if you’re playing competitively. You can get this unit with your choice of Logitech’s own GX switches in the usual offerings of linear red, tactile brown, or clicky blue, so you can pick the switch feeling you prefer.

A wireless TenKeyLess gaming keyboard, the Logitech G715 is a member of the company’s Aurora lineup, which also includes the Logitech G705 mouse. The goal of these products is to accommodate players who might favor a less combative gaming style. In order to add a little personalization to your setup, you can purchase additional top plates and keycaps in different colors in addition to the soft white base colorway that this keyboard comes in. All things considered, its excellent performance makes it suitable for games of all kinds, from fast-paced competitive games to casual farm simulators.

The Logitech G715 is a fantastic gaming keyboard. You can choose from three GX mechanical switch types at checkout, and regardless of which you choose, they’re all well-suited for gaming. Its latency is extremely low, making it well-suited for any genre of game you want to play. Also, its build quality feels premium, and it’s very comfortable to use for long durations thanks to the included wrist rest that adds great ergonomic support. Plus, the Logitech G HUB software allows for thorough customization of the RGB backlighting, though macro programming is limited only to the F1-F12 keys.

3.Corsair K70 RGB TKL

Last update on 2025-01-20 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

Our recommendation is the Corsair K70 RGB TKL, which is priced in the middle. In addition to its exceptional gaming performance, it boasts a sturdy PBT keycap, a hard plastic chassis, and ergonomic kickstands that open sideways to prevent accidental collapse in the event of a bump. With a slightly lower effective update rate of up to 4000Hz, this keyboard’s performance is comparable to that of our top choice, the NuPhy Field75 HE, with a polling rate of 8000Hz. As previously stated, even though these polling rate numbers have a discernible impact, you won’t notice it when playing games.

The K70’s use of mechanical switches is its primary distinction from the NuPhy Field75HE. Cherry MX Speed switches or Cherry MX Red switches are your options. Although the actuation point cannot be changed,both feel light and smooth, with the Speed switches offering a shorter pre-travel distance ideal for reaction-based gaming.This keyboard is a member of Corsair’s K70 series, which consists of mid-range gaming keyboards with a range of features and sizes. Because it provides more space for mouse movements, we suggest the TKL size for both performance and form factor. In general, the Corsair K70 CORE is less expensive if you want a full-size option. Although it lacks the raw performance of the TKL and has a standard polling rate of 1000Hz, it is also quieter because of sound-dampening materials in the case and spacebar.

An excellent gaming keyboard, the Corsair K70 RGB TKL is an 80% smaller version of the Corsair K70 RGB MK.2. This model is well-made and includes sturdy doubleshot PBT keycaps. Numerous gaming features are included, such as macro-programmable keys, full RGB backlighting, and a ‘Tournament Mode’ switch that turns off all macros and shows just one color so you can concentrate on playing games. For a responsive gaming experience, our unit features Cherry MX Speed switches, which are incredibly light to press. It is also available with linear Cherry MX Reds. It has excellent typing quality if you want to use it for work and don’t mind the sensitive switches, but regrettably, it lacks a wrist rest.

The Corsair K70 RGB TKL is a fantastic gaming keyboard. The Cherry MX Speed switches on our unit are very light to press with minimal pre-travel distance. Its latency is also very low for a responsive gaming experience. All keys are macro-programmable, it has full RGB lighting, and it’s very well-made. Sadly, it doesn’t come with a wrist rest for those long gaming sessions.

4.Razer Huntsman Mini

Last update on 2025-01-20 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

We suggest the Razer Huntsman Mini as a more affordable model if the other options are a little too expensive for you. Despite being a somewhat older model, its price-to-performance ratio makes it stand out. Keep in mind that some of the results, especially latency, aren’t directly comparable to other picks because this keyboard was tested on a different test bench. For the most recent latency measurements, which also apply to the Mini, you might want to read our updated review of the full-size Razer Huntsman, even though we still suggest the Mini at this price range.

Razer’s optical switches, which come in clicky and linear varieties, are used in this keyboard. Despite having the feel of conventional mechanical switches, they register keystrokes using a beam of light, creating an incredibly responsive experience. Like other Razer models, it offers all standard software customization features, including macro programming, per-key RGB lighting effects, and onboard storage for custom profiles.

The build quality is also excellent, and it feels very sturdy, even compared to the more premium options on this list. One of its major selling points is its gaming-friendly compact size, which takes up very little room on your desk. This gives your setup a minimal look and leaves plenty of room for sweeping mouse movements. 

The Razer Huntsman Mini is an exceptional gaming keyboard with a compact form factor. Its small size is great for minimalist setups and to allow for more space to move the mouse. The build quality is excellent, it has per-key RGB backlighting, and every key is macro-programmable. The Clicky Optical switches we reviewed provide an excellent typing experience, with distinct tactile feedback and incredible responsiveness. Unfortunately, it can be tiring to type on for long periods due to the lack of a wrist rest, and the layout can feel a bit cramped for some. Media controls, function keys, and navigation keys are still accessible through the use of secondary functions, and most customizations can be done on the keyboard itself. Razer’s Synapse 3 software is feature-rich; however, it’s only available for Windows.

A superb gaming keyboard is the Razer Huntsman Mini. It features individually-lit keys, full RGB backlighting, macro-programmable keys, and superb build quality. Our unit’s Clicky Optical switches feel responsive because they require very little force to actuate and have a low pre-travel distance. If you’d like, you can also get the keyboard with linear optical switches. Unfortunately, there are no macro keys specifically designed for MMO games, and the keyboard isn’t the most comfortable.

5.SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL

Last update on 2025-01-20 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

For a less expensive choice, look no further than the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL. You have plenty of room on your desk for sweeping mouse movements thanks to its TenKeyLess form factor. This keyboard features rubber dome switches, whereas the majority of the options on this list use more mechanical or Hall-effect switches. Compared to most mechanical switches, these are relatively quiet and light to press. Additionally, this switch type is more resilient to debris and minor spills. They are somewhat less responsive, though, because of their greater pre-travel distance.

We don’t suggest this keyboard for high-stakes competitive play because of its higher latency compared to more expensive options, but it’s more than adequate for casual gaming in any genre. Additionally, it has a volume wheel, dedicated media keys, and the ability to set macros to any key—all of which are uncommon at this price range. Although it has RGB lighting, you can only customize eight zones because the keys aren’t individually lit. The SteelSeries Apex 3 is a full-size keyboard that is available if you would rather have a more conventional form factor. With the exception of size, they are nearly identical; however, it is usually slightly more costly and comes with a wrist rest.

Rubber dome switches are found on the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL, an entry-level gaming keyboard. Because it lacks a numpad, this smaller version of the SteelSeries Apex 3 is one of the few non-mechanical gaming keyboards available in a TenKeyLess size, giving you more desk space to move your mouse around. You shouldn’t have to worry about breaking it if you spill your drink because it is also certified to be IP32 rated, which means it is resistant to some liquid. Although it has RGB backlighting and all of the keys can be macro-programmed using the new SteelSeries GG software, you can only customize eight zones because the keys aren’t individually lit.

The SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL is decent for gaming. The rubber dome switches are fairly light to press, but they have a long pre-travel distance. All keys are macro-programmable, and it has RGB backlighting, but the keys aren’t individually lit, so you can only customize the lighting to 8 zones. Sadly, the latency is high for competitive gamers, but it should be fine for casual gamers.

What to Look for in Gaming Keyboard Software

When assessing gaming keyboards, we also take the software into account. Nowadays, practically every gaming keyboard that is worthy of the name is connected to an application that allows you to personalize on-keyboard lighting, assign functions to shortcut keys, and create profiles tailored to specific games.

Corsair keyboards use a tool called Corsair Utility Engine (iCUE, formerly just CUE) for these and other purposes. iCUE, a highly regarded keyboard software example, has a straightforward interface and a wide range of customization options for your board. For instance, you can record your own unique macros or give already-existing keys new functions. You can even use the program to stack different effects on Corsair keyboards that support RGB, and you can see possible combinations before applying them.

What Interface Should Your Gaming Keyboard Have: USB Wired, or Wireless?

Speaking of USB: Though you may prefer your keyboards to be wireless, most gaming keyboards are wired for a reason. Wired keyboards are snappy, as you don’t have to worry about the potential input latency involved in the transmission of wireless signals. With a run-of-the-mill wireless keyboard, you might expect some delay between you pressing a key and your computer registering that as a keypress.

It’s important to minimize this lag when playing games, particularly among competitive multiplayer titles. For this reason, a lot of esports enthusiasts and competitive gamers swear by wired only. Nevertheless, a number of well-known gaming keyboard manufacturers provide a few claimed low-latency wireless designs. However, wireless keyboards for gaming are still the exception rather than the rule. (Check out our selection of the best wireless keyboards.)