Cool keyboard. Choosing a gaming keyboard for a gamer

The keyboard is perhaps one of the most unpopular peripherals, associated with tedious sitting over it in office cubicles.

But if you are a crazy online PC gamer, then finding the best keyboard is vital for you.

Whether you're using it to control omnidirectional fire in a first-person shooter or to select from an arsenal of spells in a massively multiplayer online (MMO) game, it's an essential tool for showing off your skills and creating that all-important reputation. Therefore, a gamer is willing to pay any money to buy the best keyboard available.

With that in mind, we've rounded up the five best gaming keyboards to suit every gamer's preferences. No matter if you are a ninja Games World Of Warcraft or an expert in the Counter-Strike: GO game, a constantly updated game and whatever the state of your finances or sky-high requirements, you must choose best keyboard from this collection. Below we have arranged, starting with the most expensive, models in descending order of cost.

Average price: RUB 11,999
Pros: nice design
Minuses: removable wrist rest

In fact, mechanical keyboards offer a superior tactile feel compared to traditional membrane models that are too noisy. That's why Corsair launched the Strafe RGB Silent, the world's first mechanical keyboard to feature Cherry's exclusive MX Silent switches.

Thanks to this innovation, integrated into each key, this keyboard allows you to play without the constant, driving everyone around you crazy, clattering keys. Although the keys are still noisy, the clicking sound they produce is noticeably quieter than the company's MX Red or Brown switches. In addition, with Cherry Strafe RGB Silent, the keyboard looks aesthetically pleasing and can shimmer with all the colors of the rainbow, thanks to a three-color RGB backlight switch.

Average price: RUB 26,190
Pros: LED touch screen
Minuses: price

The model with the apocalyptic name DeathStalker Ultimate from Razer is another gaming keyboard that is still causing a clash of polar opinions. It is frighteningly expensive, although it is equipped with membrane keys. If you want to play on mechanical keys, DeathStalker Ultimate, rest assured, can easily replace them. In addition, this model has one completely unique feature: LCD touch screen (with ten programmable touch keys) that allows you to use any gaming application.

In specially developed applications for the games Star Wars: The Old Republic, Battlefield 3, Counter-Strike: GO, Team Fortress 2, you can assign all the necessary functions of the touch screen, and, if necessary, create your own applications for it to suit your taste. The latter is, of course, tempting, but just like that, this screen will help provide you with gaming advantages if you configure it correctly.

Average price: RUB 15,339
Pros: fast
Minuses: price

The Logitech G910 Orion Spark uses a different type of mechanical keys - the Romer-Gs system, which, as Logitech claims, is the fastest on the keyboard market. This fast and beautiful “beast”, thanks to full control of the color illumination of the keys, has a smart phone connector, which is convenient for those games that are accompanied by corresponding applications. Nine programmable macro keys may also be of interest to MMO/MOBA players.

Average price: RUB 11,990
Pros: innovative
Minuses: bulky

4. RYOS MK Pro is the most high-tech gaming keyboard that currently exists. It is produced by Roccat, with not one, but two 32-bit embedded ARM processors. Therefore, you can record and run up to 500 macros at once, which can give you an edge in MMO or MOBA games.

The “smart” key “Light Press” allows you to change the functions of any of the keys. You have the opportunity to independently backlight individual keys or their groups. In addition, the keyboard has a palm rest, a USB hub, built-in audio jacks and several Cherry MX mechanical key switches are available - black, red, brown and blue with fine tuning to match the strength of the player's key presses.

Average price: RUB 14,699
Pros: compact
Minuses: no programmable keys

If you prefer gaming keyboards to the more compact range, the Turtle Beach Impact 700 eliminates physical strain on your wrists and has the smallest footprint possible for a feature-rich keyboard. The device has a numeric keypad and uses Cherry MX Brown keys.

It lacks programmable macros since it's mostly used in standalone shooters, especially if the keyboard comes with a spare W, A, S, D key (among others), and a tool that allows you to delete unnecessary ones. of them. In addition, it makes it possible to highlight key keys. Not one of the cheapest, which is worth considering for those who have a habit of hammering on their keyboards until they lose their pulse.

Egorov Alexander "Top 5: Best Gaming Keyboards"

Choosing a gaming keyboard for a gamer

For a real gamer, the keyboard is a channel for immersion in virtual reality, this is the thread that connects you to your favorite game. It is with the help of the keyboard that today's crappy PC players chop orcs into noodles, drive a car or a tuned Subaru, drive a shift to B, remove a bomb and even, God forgive me, cheat the Sims.

Today we will plunge into the world of our multi-button comrades. We will analyze which type suits whom best, what minimum set of characteristics a real keyboard should have, and where you should put your old white keyboard from Sven, which your mom/dad/grandmother/cat once brought home from work - “No, well, that’s it.” carried it, and don’t waste money on your foolishness at all.”

Everyone's preferences and tastes are different. Serious passions and dangerous holiwars are inflamed on gaming forums, where more than one skillful troll has died. Let us determine the stratum point. The keyboard must be:
. High quality. No squeaks, backlashes, false alarms or failures.
. Ergonomic. After a multi-hour raid, or when you sat down to play tanks for a couple of battles, and the night passed, your hands should not feel discomfort or fatigue. The device should take care of you.
. Strong. Of course, everyone would like the material from which the keyboard is made to withstand, well, at least a nuclear strike or, at worst, a full-on blow against the wall after another melted roller. But the keyboard should simply withstand standard mechanical loads such as falling on the floor or sleeping with a beloved 10 kg cat.

All further conclusions are based on our own many hours of experience, the opinions of our comrades in arms and several authoritative open and closed gaming portals. Well, let's put it simply - IMHO. Read, enrich yourself and strictly follow all instructions. The text was compiled according to Kashpirovsky's method - you can bring water to the monitor.

General set of useful features of a gaming keyboard

Gamer keyboard is the most used type of keyboard among PC users. Therefore, there must be additional goodies that will help in battle.

Programmable keys- set of specials buttons that do not have an original purpose and are used by each player at their own discretion. This is a kind of ace in the hole - while your opponent still chooses to sing in the layout or, at best, squeezes Alt+1, You have already cast a whole series of blows, carefully put into the macro in advance. Wonderful thing.

Game mode- the essence of the regime is simple, but somewhere in this lightness lies its genius. Shuts down tightly Win key(that damn button that crashes the game to the desktop). Not critical, but very nice.

Screen- someone might say that this is excess, but not us. We need to put a monitor here! - thanks to “Pimp My Ride” for a happy childhood. With a reasonable approach, you can display game statistics on the screen or simply record system indicators there. Well, for example, to see if it’s time to turn over the sausages on a boiling video card.

Backlit keys- at this stage I immediately discard copies without support this indicator. Firstly, at night, well, a very necessary thing. You say: “Yes, I already know where my button is!” Yes, during the day it's true. But at night it will be more like “Dy ch mtsua k megch kiki%.” Sound familiar? Well, and secondly, it just looks very cool.

Media Control- today you rarely see models without a group of keys for balancing sound, brightness, etc., but until such examples disappear completely, we must not forget about this rule.

Which gaming keyboards are better: mechanical or membrane?

From the necessary set of components, let's move on to the internals. “Sister, open it up. Not the patient, but the cognac!” Today there are two main types of keyboard construction: membrane and mechanical structure.

The market is dominated by claves with membrane filling. It looks something like this: a three-layer film, the middle layer of which is an electrical circuit, and the top and bottom are insulation. There are recesses for the keys on the entire surface. When pressed, the circuit closes - the signal is received. The main disadvantage is the simple device itself. Where it's thin, that's where it breaks. Quite quickly, the moment of desynchronization of clicks comes, and lags and glitches can occur. It is at these moments that it begins to seem, and not in vain, that the harder you press the buttons, the faster your car will go. Manufacturers are trying to defend themselves by the fact that claves of this type survive contact with liquid. I would dispute this... Yes, it’s complete nonsense. Maybe in contact with distilled water, which does not conduct current - yes. Do you often drink this in front of the computer?

Mechanical keyboards are more acceptable for an enjoyable gaming experience. This is where “Everything new is well forgotten old” comes into force. Previously, membranes were used everywhere. But the technology was not just returned, but radically redesigned. One of the flagships of the sea of gaming devices, Razer decides to kill the morally and physically outdated CherryMX technology. New click systems are being released called Razer Green Switch and Razer Orange Switch. The difference between the two technologies is the presence and absence of returns, respectively. After talking about this topic at the next meeting with my guild members, I realized that the majority prefer the option without recoil. It adds softness, is silent and requires 10% less effort. Everything seems to be true, but I prefer the sound of clicking and tapping. It’s somehow old school, or something.

TOP WIRED GAMING KEYBOARDS

When considering keyboards, it’s difficult to say that one is tailored for a specific game or genre. Now I’m not talking about limited edition keyboards dedicated to one game or some event in the gaming industry. By the way, usually exorbitantly expensive specimens are of disgusting quality. Apart from very rare exceptions - the Half-life 2 collection, my respects. Maybe something will come out by the 3rd half (joke about Gabe). Below I will highlight the real favorites of 2015 and identify personal favorites in different price niches. Go!

Roccat Ryos - MK Glow

Let's start right away with the tin. Conceptual monster. The Roccat Ryos MK Glow keyboard (~ 9,000 rubles) is more powerful than a computer from the early 00s. 32-bit processor, a couple of MB of flash memory, a book for 500 macros. Each button has its own LED, each of which is individually configurable. The Roccat Ryos keyboard is a kind of high-precision terminator sent from the future.

Mad Catz V.7 Keyboard for PC

Spaceship control panel. Cool design, memorable. I’m not a fan of this style, but I’m bringing it here because of its high-quality performance and great functionality. This membrane keyboard, the best price of which is about 5,500 rubles. includes just everything you need. The big advantages are 12 programmable keys, the entire coverage is divided into 5 logical zones, each of which can be assigned its own backlight color and its own intensity. The WASD and space buttons are metal. It doesn’t give a very different feeling when using it, but it fights wear well.

Mad Catz Strike 7

Type: wired membrane keyboard.

Another joy for geeks. In general, from the name it is already clear that the thing is nuclear. Appearance more like the weapon of the Mangalores (the bad guys from the fifth element). Metal body, TFT display, a larger monitor than some, built-in Team Speak and a Jedi sword (it’s not there, of course, but it’s really missing). The keyboard is very atmospheric and reminiscent previous model Mad Catz Strike 5.

Razer BlackWidow Tournament Edition

Type: wired mechanical keyboard.

Model from the leaders of the hit parade. Elegant, black, beautiful. I really like this model. Full mechanics, a selection of programmable components, complete control over multimedia. The manufacturer guarantees the mileage of each key up to 60 million keystrokes. During the test, it went astray somewhere between the 30th and 40th pressing, so whoever checks it, take a video of the process and write to me. (Don't even think about it!). And another wonderful feature of this model is that you can record the sequence of presses. Autoclicker without definition on your computer, if you know what I mean. The price of the keyboard is about 5,600 rubles.

Razer Death Stalker Ultimate

Type: wired membrane keyboard.

Cool keyboard. I tested it live for a month. Cool design, perfect key operation, pleasant backlighting. Well, and the screen. By the way, in addition to game information, I was able to open mail and a couple of left search engines on it. And this keyboard will appeal to frequent visitors to champions or just fans who go everywhere with their keyboard and plug it into other people’s systems. Using the built-in software, you can synchronize with the cloud and not re-enter all the macros, but simply download them. Fashionable, stylish, youthful. The estimated price of the Razer Death Stalker Ultimate is from $190.

SteelSeries Apex Gaming Keyboard Black USB

Type: wired membrane keyboard.

Keyboard from an extremely famous gaming company. Stylish design, huge range of lighting combinations. The manufacturer even names a certain number, but it is too large to fit into the review. The wide spacebar is a very convenient gaming feature, which, by the way, I didn’t notice in other competitors. And there is a certain feature that you cannot tell about to people with weak psyches or your enemies. You can reconfigure absolutely all keys. Yes all. Yes, absolutely every one. You can give a gift to your friend by changing all the meanings. It will be very funny to see the poor guy. Best price this keyboard ~ 4,000 rub..

Separately, I would like to draw your attention, outside the general list, to one more model.

Razer Orbweaver Elite Mechanical PC Gaming Keypad

Type: wired mechanical keyboard.

Placed in a separate category because of its specificity and non-standard approach to business. It is generally more correct to call this keyboard a keypad. What we have here: a separate handle and thumb rest. And only 20 keys. The OrbWeaver Keypad is designed to left hand. All keys are programmed independently of each other and provide you with all the necessary functionality. Mouse in one hand, keyboard in the other, butt on the couch. Idyll.

Unfortunately, this device had to be thrown into the far corner after I got hooked on the arma, although for simpler games, shooters various types a very useful thing.

Let's summarize!

Choosing a real gaming device is an individual and very personal matter. It's like going to an intimate store. First you read on the Internet, then you ask your friends how it feels in person, after which you think for a long time, break your piggy bank and go towards your dream. Don’t think that by purchasing a cool keyboard, you will immediately become a Pro-level player. The keyboard improves your skills, makes your work more precise, and does not decide everything for you. Successful achievements - pleasant battles.

There are times when you want to take and throw your cheap keyboard out the window, forgetting about its price and consequences, because it brought so much pain and loss (frags, of course) - this is exactly what the first lines of this guide would sound like if it were written by someone fashionable women's writer. Well, okay, away with these lyrical digressions - today you will learn how a mechanical keyboard works, how to choose it correctly in price range from 80 to 170 dollars. As a result, I will present to your consideration 4 keyboards with the best software, design, and in a special nomination for neophytes - “The best universal mechanical keyboard for gaming and work.”

The market situation has developed in such a way that most keyboards “for the general consumer” are membrane ones. This tradition has started since the beginning of mass production of televisions - manufacturers simply began to save on the design of the remote control and equipped it with simple rubber membrane-type buttons. The same goes for a similar group of keyboards. Despite all the delights in design and loud names, a membrane keyboard is not the highest quality product, especially for a gamer. If you, like me, are not part of that same circle of “general consumers,” then we have something to talk about further.

Advantages of a mechanical keyboard and its operating principle

Why do I need a mechanical keyboard, and why should I pay more?

Having found out the prices for mechanical keyboards (they start from ~$30, and the “ceiling” rests at $800-900), you, dear reader, will probably be indignant, close this tab and continue tapping the rhythm on the membranes of your keyboard, bought at the first electronics store you come across. Yes, perhaps this is true if the person reading these lines is far from the world of games, and turns on the computer only to check email. But I dare to suggest that our reader is, first of all, a person who values the pleasure of playing not only by absorbing the information provided by the game developers, but also from the devices on which he plays. So what will a mechanical keyboard do?

Smoothness and ease of pressing.
No discomfort during a long drum march on the keys, whether chatting or working for many hours.
Durability and millions of clicks to spare.
Constant pleasant sensations from using a really cool thing, even a year after purchase.
After using a mechanical keyboard for an hour or two, you are unlikely to want to switch to a membrane keyboard.
Lack of annoying plastic clicks (but on some models, on the contrary, this aspect is taken as a basis - they click oh so loudly).

Worth it? Definitely yes, By the way, note - PR specific model I don’t spend time campaigning purely for technology. And by the way, it is one of the oldest and most reliable in the world. The essence of the device, as they say, reached the gaming audience back in 2014 with a keyboard from Razer. Since that time, the mechanics have completely occupied the eSports niche and reached ordinary gamers. Of course, the total increase in prices for all hardware is making itself felt, but I can boldly say that a mid-level mechanical keyboard is worth the money, as in many other cases there are their own “brand makers” that produce products with clearly inflated prices. Overall, there is plenty to choose from, and there are models for every budget.

In the heart of the machine: how a mechanical keyboard works

The main thing in a keyboard, as you might guess, is the keys. In gaming mechanical keyboards, a peculiar culture of mechanical switches has evolved over time. These are mainly Cherry MX in various color variations. And it’s not the color schemes that make them strikingly different from each other.

Cherry MX Black. The switch presses evenly without “clicking” at the same time. Its main advantage for gamers is the equal distribution of the moment of pressing and lowering. What does this give? During QTE scenes, for example, this will easily allow you to frantically hammer on the keys without fear of response lag. All thanks to the lack of tactility and the mechanism working “all the way”. And a mechanical keyboard, I remind you, basically protects against pressing one key too often.
Cherry MX Red. A lightweight version of the previous switch. The pressure is light, almost imperceptible. It won't fit every hand. Many people rely on tactile sensations when playing, here they are subtle, and players who are accustomed to making at least some effort when pressing will be disappointed - the buttons on the MX Red feel literally airy, every now and then confusing whether you clicked or No. But I repeat: the transmitter is considered to be just as gaming-ready as the Black version, so there are probably fingers that feel confident in conditions of such “increased lightness.”
Cherry MX Blue. This version has increased tactility, the force of pressing the button is comparable to that attached to scissor keys on laptops. Although the question is purely subjective: the author of these lines, for example, during bouts of hard work, is accustomed to beating out rhythms on the laptop keys, up to a clanging sound that is usually unusual for them. Therefore, if the pressing force is usually high, this option is suitable.
Cherry MX Brown. An option for those who are not used to “throwing it all the way” - the response comes in the middle of pressing, so there is no need to push it to the end. It is more suitable for convenient typing of texts in large volumes - there it is appropriate for the fingers to slide over the keys without having to make full presses. Suitable for games, if, of course, complete understanding is achieved between the keyboard and fingers. You can play if you get used to feeling the moment between lowering and triggering - in e-sports, for example, these 2ms will be important, in single-player, of course, not so much.
Cherry MX Clear. Quite balanced keys - suitable for picky people who don’t want to switch to mechanics because of the “rigidity”. The sensations are similar to membrane keyboards, but the same “rigidity” is retained, so we get a full-fledged mechanical keyboard with a slight membrane taste.

Planting depth for the entire Cherry family:
Before response - 2mm.
All the way - 4 mm.

Tactile sensations change depending on the proximity in the location of these points. Everything is quite clearly visible in the illustrations.

Subjectively:

In general, of the presented options, the market and the attention of gamers was absorbed by the MX Black option - and for good reason. Mechanical simplicity “press all the way” appeals to everyone. Moreover, both people who came from scissor laptop keyboards and lovers of membrane keyboards cope with it. MX Clear could be a counterbalance here, but manufacturers practically don’t use it.

I cry and I don’t cry: which mechanical keyboard should I buy?

The expanses of the Amazon website are like the flow of the distant Amazon - it’s so easy for an unprepared user to drown in the flow of offers and goods. And it’s even easier to buy something that’s not exactly what you’d like. It’s best, of course, to go straight to the manufacturer’s official websites, having previously “smoked the manual”, but it is in the vastness of one of the largest rivers on the Internet that you can find worthwhile offers. In the meantime, let’s look at the most interesting and noteworthy models of mechanical gaming keyboards. This, by the way, is not top and the devices are located purely in “nominations”.

Logitech G910 Orion Spark RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The best station wagon model

The first and most noticeable detail for the review (but we still had to get to the bottom of it) are the Romer-G switches, supplied by Logitech, apparently to quickly get rid of the yoke of Cherry, there is no other logical explanation. They feel like the MX Black version of their competitor. In general, everything is satisfactory - every click works, it’s quite difficult to miss, the tactile sensations are pleasant.

The second detail is the lighting. As many as 16.8 million shades (although recently, backlighting with less than 15 million has come to be considered a sign of bad taste). The light produces a pleasant light, although many will probably find it not bright enough due to the stencils on the keys. They here evoke thoughts of “Transformers” and, frankly speaking, were made for an amateur. Those who like minimalism are unlikely to appreciate it.

A smartphone is also attached to the keyboard, synchronizing with the ARX Control application. The features are not useful to everyone; the most valuable one is displaying information about the PC status on the display.

The multimedia keys, as in many models, will personally remain idle for me - they are located a little far away (and it’s good that they don’t get in the way). They also put a scroll wheel right above the number pad, and you need to have very thin and small fingers to use it comfortably. In general, with additional buttons, as with many manufacturers, everything is not so great.

The keyboard is comfortable - there is a stand for brushes, made more or less well. The hand on it does not get tired and does not go numb.

Orion Spark will cost approximately $150 and the price will be repaid by its tolerable quality. But the design issue is still open - it can scare off many. Are you looking for a model of a decent level to get your teeth into? It will do just fine.

ASUS (STRIX TACTIC PRO) Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Best software

Another interesting model, this time from Asus, not the hegemon of gaming devices, but a manufacturer that has established itself as a supplier of budget products of decent design, functionality and quality.

The curved, bowl-shaped design of the keyboard immediately catches your eye - it looks comfortable. In fact, it doesn't make any significant changes. It is only possible that the first row of keys, which protrudes higher than the next ones, will cause discomfort until you get used to it.

The keyboard is equipped with MX Blue switches (and in general it is available in all varieties of this same MX), you can immediately feel it: compared to the same Orion Spark, the force applied is much greater.

The backlight here is amber, the design is minimalistic, as opposed to the previous candidate. Programmable keys will be enough even for those who use them very intensively.

The most “delicious” technical point is the N-Key Rollover technology. Remember when we talked about the big disadvantage of the USB interface, which limits the number of simultaneous presses? So, here this problem is completely eliminated - press with at least four hands, there will be a response. If your hands are shaking too much after a stormy corporate event, with a slight movement of your hand the mode for limiting simultaneous presses is activated.

The software, which allows you to literally create configs on the fly and flexibly switch between them, does not let us down either. This is definitely a must-have item for online players.

The model will cost $170 . Be especially careful with a curved design - indeed, the convenience is questionable and may, as they say, not take root. And a device smashed against a wall will remind you of wasted money for a long time.

Roccat Ryos TKL Pro TENKEYLESS Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Best minimalist model

So we got to the manufacturer, “widely known in narrow circles.” Roccat Ryos TKL is one of the best minimalist models I have seen. There is also convenient stand for brushes, and the number of keys is just right; there are no extra sliders and wheels getting in the way. In general, those who constantly come across various additional buttons/modules are in line for review!

Roccat's signature design didn't let us down either - blue backlighting of neat, classic-looking keys, and a modest set of visual effects. There are no millions of shades here, but there is no need for them either - the basic set, such as backlighting only the “game” keys, is enough.

It is standardly available in all varieties of Cherry MX, you can choose it according to your hand. Even too large hands will not feel cramped - there is exactly as much free space as there should be.

A significant disadvantage for many will be the lack of a number pad and groups of additional keys. Therefore, Roccat Ryos satisfies the gaming needs quite ascetically and without frills. Many, however, don’t need more.

For the price ($80 to $90) and the compact appearance of the model looks attractive. I just want to say something like “it will pack into a bag without any problems and go with you to the International,” but the functionality is not enough for experienced players.

Corsair Vengeance K70 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Best Design

And now please skip the next few paragraphs for people who prefer to crunch cookies or do something more serious in front of the monitor. The design of the Corsair is open in the literal sense of the word - in the front row, under the keys, the switches are easily distinguishable, and small elements strive to fly into this opening. There are no more complaints about the design - if handled properly there will be no problems.

The corporate backlight is red. Brings back memories of Blackbeard’s notorious ship “Queen Anne’s Revenge”, recreated in one of the “Pirates of the Caribbean” films. Perhaps it was from him that the designers of the Corsair drew inspiration. The “game keys” here are textured and highlighted, which makes it easy to distinguish them by their surface texture. The brush stand is sharply inclined, which raises some doubts. Still, longer and more voluminous options look smoother and are more convenient to use.

The MX Red transmitter copes with its task quite well - no clicks are heard, the tactile sensations are quite pleasant.

Perhaps the remarkable pleasant elements end there. This, if you put aside the stylish design, is the harsh technical minimalism behind $130 . Many will be put off by the lack of high-quality branded software, but if life is good without it and the lack of unnecessary features has become a habit, feel free to try it.

Now we look at the table, where the main qualities of the keyboards reviewed are rated from 1 to 5.

Model	Price, $	Design	Ergonomics	Additional functions
Logitech G910 Orion Spark
Asus Strix Tactic Pro
Roccat Ryos TKL
Corsair Vengeance K70

P.S.. I immediately realized that there was no point in recommending the hyped Razer Blackwidow or one of the Mad Catz variants. They are constantly heard, and the manufacturer much more often does not lie when describing the characteristics and “tricks” (although the author of the lines has many questions about “branded” models). It is much more valuable to choose quality rather than brand, and pay attention to models that are less popular among a wide audience. And if you still feel sophistication in the reader’s gaze, welcome to our constantly updated catalog. Also don't miss our review the best wireless keyboards - this is if you want comfortable gaming without any wires.

Whatever keyboard you use, good luck on the battlefield (or on the monthly reports, if you're stuck looking for a keyboard for work)!

Backlit Keyboards Review

The article presents an overview of backlit gaming keyboards. Considered technical, functionality, the advantages and disadvantages of several of the most interesting examples.

Always an advantage

Backlit gaming keyboards take into account the needs of real gamers who can spend night time at the computer.

Backlit buttons are not the only thing that manufacturers have worried about.

From working models, gaming models differ even visually: in a specific set of keys.

When choosing a keyboard case for a game, you need to pay attention to standard issues.

Mechanical or membrane model? , or with a cord? How comfortable the chosen option is is especially important during a long gaming session.

Those who take part in competitions know how important it is to feel confident in their strengths and capabilities.

A good choice- mechanical wired, equipped with backlight.

The wireless principle of button impulse can cause loss important shares seconds

Mechanical cases are different increased accuracy, pressure control.

What the computer owner plays plays an important role.

The comfort of using the buttons is one when playing strategy games, and another when conducting the popular “shooting”.

These keys are rubberized, it is easy to change them by taking others from the package.

The sound of membranes differs in relative volume.

Comfort throughout a long gaming session is ensured by a barely noticeable, short press of the stroke. Bloody B120 Black is equipped with an interface and protection from liquids - these are clear advantages.

The backlighting is somewhat weak, but four-level.

The cost of Bloody B120 Black, relatively similar, high-quality options in lighting, is extremely low - about 2000 rubles.

The most significant disadvantage of the Bloody B120 Black is the lack of configuration software, but practice shows that most gamers do not use such software, even if it is available.

general characteristics and the requirements of the gaming keyboard case with the backlit function Bloody B120 Black:

wired type;
for desktop computer.

Apex M500

The backlit mechanical gaming keyboard - Apex M500, from the Danish manufacturer SteelSeries - is one of the best wired ones today.

The cost varies from 7,000 rubles to 10,000 rubles, however, it has been popular among gamers since its appearance in 2016.

The convenient functionality was appreciated by both ordinary fans of mechanical keyboards and fans of the SteelSeries brand.

The strict minimalist design of the case is equipped with pleasant buttons, and there are no fingerprints.

The manufacturer's logo is printed on the sides.

Thoughtfully designed legs and stands hold the keyboard body securely during the most intense moments.

Blue lighting has five levels of brightness, is equipped with animation elements, and is particularly bright.

SteelSeries Engine 3 software allows you to change some settings: type, brightness, frequency.

Setting macros allows you to set reassignment for each button.

Gaming opportunity to establish function buttons independently is very important and the mechanical wired Apex M500 allows this.

It is ergonomic, functional, attractive, and has a two-meter cord. Its only minor drawback is the lack of other color lighting options.

Attack X3 RGB

Gaming keyboards with RGB backlighting, fashionable today, belong to price category above average.

Cougar presented its version of an ultra-modern keyboard.

This is a wired mechanical Attack X3 RGB, with original German CHERRY MX switching mechanisms, thanks to which the manufacturer provides a guarantee of 50 million clicks.

The cost is about 10,000 rubles. The proposed option is designed taking into account all the possible needs of computer players.

The goal is to help them achieve even greater, devastating results.

Elegant design complemented LED backlight RGB, allowing the use of 16.8 million color shades.

The key backlighting device is capable of storing up to 30 macro-level commands.

The difference between this and similar offers on the market is that it provides comfortable text input.

This is achieved through aluminum inserts on the body.

Thanks to the N-Key Rollover function, which does not limit simultaneous presses, parallel use of buttons is possible.

With Attack X3 it is easy to control media functions (FN + F keys) or sound settings.

Legs - stands with a rubberized base resist sliding on the table surface, even during very intense sessions.

Specifics technical characteristics Attack X3 RGB:

Cherry MX Brown switches;
FPS, MMORPG, MOBA, RTS - games that you can give preference to;
backlight function;
presence of N-key rollover;
1000 Hz / 1 ms – polling frequency;
built-in memory;
COUGAR UIX™ SYSTEM – software;
made of aluminum;
USB interface, gold-plated connector;
braided cable, 1.8 m;
170/467/40mm;
0.9 kg.

Corsair K95 RGB Platinum Backlit Keyboard

The Corsair K95 RGB Platinum gaming keyboard with RGB backlighting is the perfect device for PC gaming.

High quality, with standard functional characteristics, stability - allow you to fully use this keyboard for ordinary purposes: work, printing texts, entertainment on the Internet.

This system illuminated with all the colors of the rainbow.

The provided special program Corsair Utility Engine allows you to fix this, if desired.

The body is made of ultra-high strength plastic and anodized aluminum.

Therefore, the K95 Platinum is suitable for those who are worried about the appearance of scratches or stains - on such a surface they will definitely be absent.

Retractable legs – stands can easily be pulled out when necessary, providing greater stability relative to the table surface.

The black background highlights the silver volume control and blue macro buttons.

The stylish K95 RGB Platinum case has dimensions of 465/171/36 mm and a weight of 1.3 kg.

These are quite impressive characteristics, even taking into account the fact that the equipment is for gaming. At the same time, you may be surprised by the relatively short wire - its length is only 1.5 m.

The media content control keys do not have springs, but for this reason they can hardly be called less convenient.

The equipment is equipped with a pad for the wrists of both hands, which is convenient and relieves stress during hours-long battles.

There are only six microkeys.

Corsair's proprietary Utility Engine software will solve this problem, as it allows you to install all the necessary commands under these few switches.

8 MB of keyboard memory will store up to three profiles.

This is especially convenient when more than one player is using the computer.

The reliability of the K95 Platinum is ensured by state-of-the-art Cherry MX Speed and Brown mechanical switches.

It is possible to install guaranteed protection against clicks - phantoms, which is especially useful for beginners.

Weightless high-speed actuation – distinguishing feature this impeccable new product introduced to the gaming keyboard market.

The K95 Platinum will certainly captivate those users who will be completely delighted with the excess of backlight color when turned on for the first time.

The cost of this offer is not less than 15,000 rubles.

Requirements:

operating room Microsoft system Windows;
standard USB interface;

Review of the Corsair K95 RGB Platinum mechanical keyboard

ABOUT mechanical keyboard reviewCorsairK95RGBPlatinum

Any gamer knows or dreams of a keyboard Razer, which are distinguished by excellent performance and equipment. Many gamers will want to have a keyboard model with gaming backlight, since all the details of this gaming device are worked out to the smallest detail. Razer Green Switch mechanical keys are designed by the company's specialists in such a way as to fully satisfy all the player's needs. They fire instantly with incredible accuracy. The user will not miss a single click, which can provoke an unsuccessful move and ultimately lose the game.

The incredible durability of the keyboard, according to the manufacturer, can withstand 60 million keystrokes, which indicates the highest durability. The gadget has compact format and fit even on a small computer desk. The gadget also has protective case and removable USB cable, which is useful for those who participate in gaming tournaments and use only their own keyboard. The LED backlighting of the keyboard buttons can be changed and has 16 million color shades. And Razer Synapse 2.0 software allows you to use many different effects. For example, spectrum cycling, breathing effect, waves, static backlighting and much more.

Characteristics:

Connection – wired (USB)
Number of buttons – 109 + 5 additional for macros
Weight – 1.5 kg, dimensions – 475 x 171 x 39 mm
Average cost – $215

Company SteelSeries is one of the leaders in the field of game controllers. New model gaming keyboard, which is predicted to be one of the most popular in 2016, can already be purchased. The device has a mechanical design and does not have any design features. Quite an ordinary-looking keyboard High Quality and fast button response. Not everything is so simple, of course - the device has its own characteristics. The body of the device has a weighty and solid appearance, so it will not move away from excessive gaming excitement.

Further, we can note the very clear and high-quality drawing of letters and symbols. There are six additional buttons on the side for programming frequent player actions. Naturally, this undoubtedly one of the best gaming keyboards comes with SteelSeries Engine 3 software for fine-tuning. There is backlighting of the keys in 16 million colors, which can be customized to suit the player’s every taste. The huge spacebar key deserves special attention; you certainly won’t be able to miss it. The proprietary QS1 button mechanism, which was developed together with the famous Kaihua, gives a pleasant pressing feeling without any tactile feedback.

Characteristics:

Keyboard type – mechanical gaming
Connection – wired (USB)
Number of buttons – 104 + 6 additional for macros
Fully programmable buttons
Dynamic LED backlighting of buttons with 16 million colors.
Weight – 1.4 kg, dimensions – 510 x 174 x 41 mm
Average cost – $200

This is, without exaggeration, a super keyboard from a manufacturer with an interesting name Mad Catz will be a welcome purchase for any gamer. The first glance at the keyboard immediately makes you want to own it, which is why it immediately puts it next to the best gaming keyboards. The model is created to provide a perfect gaming environment and is made in a very interesting design. For such dimensions you will need a very large area of the computer gaming table. The keyboard is based on an all-metal platform, which makes it very strong and durable. A special membrane built into the buttons imitates the tactile clicks of a mechanical manipulator, but without the characteristic loud sound.

The modular design of the device consists of five parts. The first module is the V.E.N.O.M touch screen, which gives access to all keyboard settings. The second module is the main base with buttons, and the third with functional programmable keys. The fourth and fifth modules are a numeric keypad plus a palm rest. There is backlighting of the buttons along with laser engraving of all symbols and letters. User-friendly interface touch control on touch screen allows you to quickly create macros and other program settings. The TeamSpeak chat feature allows you to communicate with your team players by voice during the game.

Characteristics:

Keyboard type – mechanical gaming
Connection – wired (USB)
Modular design with touch screen
Number of buttons – 109 + 24 additional keys for macros
Fully programmable buttons
Dynamic LED backlighting of buttons with 16 million colors.
Average cost – $250

Another very powerful gaming keyboard codenamed by famous manufacturer manipulators will definitely attract the attention of players. Company Logitech positions this model as the fastest mechanical keyboard in the world. This is made possible thanks to proprietary Romer-G switches, which will give advantages in a game where victory depends not only on the player’s skill, but also on reaction time, which goes by milliseconds. Customizable color lighting has 16 million shades and can display a lot of interesting light options. Each symbol or group can be highlighted in a separate color, which makes it easier to control and gives advantages in the game.

Particularly interesting will be the Arx Control function, which is an application for a smartphone that can be installed next to the keyboard and see all game indicators or perform fine tuning gaming device. There are nine macro programming buttons that can be used for 27 commands across three profiles, as well as convenient media control buttons. All 113 buttons are guaranteed to prevent malfunction even for the most active player. The design of the keyboard is designed specifically for maximum comfort for the player, including the buttons.

Characteristics:

Keyboard type – mechanical gaming
Connection – wired (USB)
Connecting to a smartphone via the Arx Control app
Number of buttons – 113 + 9 additional keys for macros (27 commands)
Fully programmable buttons
Dynamic LED backlighting of buttons with 16 million colors.
Weight – 1.5 kg, dimensions – 505 x 243 x 35 mm
Average cost – $260

Manufacturer products A4Tech are widely known to many gamers mainly due to their low price and quite decent quality. Of course, don’t expect fancy features from the model, but there are a lot of useful additions here too. First of all, four speed modes should be highlighted – normal, accelerated, fast and turbo. The button response time is 7 milliseconds, which is three times faster than a regular mechanical keyboard. The device cannot be fully called the best gaming keyboard, but the average gamer will positively appreciate the capabilities of the gaming device.

There are 15 hotkeys that can be customized to suit any computer games. The player will also be interested in 7 additional buttons for controlling multimedia. On the case, the user will find additional USB 2.0 connectors and audio with a microphone. The keyboard comes with 8 additional replaceable buttons, which is good news. The presented model of an inexpensive gaming gadget looks very decent for the money.

Characteristics:

Keyboard type – mechanical gaming
Connection – wired (USB)
Number of buttons – 104 + 22 additional keys (+ 8 replaceable)
Additional programmable buttons
Average cost – $23