Compare Top Gaming Keyboards on the Market in 2021

Simply having a great gaming PC or laptop won’t deliver the best experience. Peripherals matter too, and out of all of the peripherals, most PC gamers still rely upon their keyboards. Find out how the best gaming keyboards work and what to look for when shopping for a new one.

Players can use their regular PC or laptop keyboard to play most games. Similarly, it’s fine to use a gaming keyboard to perform routine tasks on a computer.

Gaming and regular keyboards share a lot of similarities. Still, they work differently.

According to Tom’s Guide, the mechanical keys offered by most gaming keyboards make the biggest difference. For example, regular keyboards generally rely upon membranes that send electrical signals. On the other hand, mechanical keyboards use switches under each key, making the keyboard more reliable, less prone to failure, and more responsive.

Additionally, Tom’s Guide said that people usually find mechanical keyboards more comfortable to use, so non-gamers should also consider buying one.

Several companies offer a variety of gaming keyboards. This list cannot possibly include all of the best ones, but it offers a good sample to help players know what to expect when they start shopping.

At $249, this high-end keyboard appears rather expensive. Still, it delivers both a great tactile feel and an ergonomic design that lets players enjoy themselves longer without hand or wrist cramps.

Alienware established itself as a big name in gaming for its PCs and laptops. Priced at around $150, this gaming keyboard has grown so popular that sometimes it’s hard to find at major retailers. The low price, slick appearance, macro keys, and durable build contributed to its popularity.

Gamers also recognize Corsair as an established brand. Highlights include an airplane-grade aluminum frame and 8MB of storage. The built-in lights and color choices really make this $159 keyboard stand out.

Sometimes, gamers just need to find a bargain. At $38.95, the Apex 3 provides water resistance and attractive lighting. Unlike most gaming keyboards, this one’s not mechanical. Of course, some people like the fact that it works quietly.

This mini-keyboard takes up about 65 percent of the space of a typical model. Reducing the keyboard size has actually grown more popular with people who don’t have a large desk or also rely on a controller. This K65 offers one of the best examples of this trend and costs about $110.

Gaming consoles generally rely on controllers, but many PC gamers still prefer using a keyboard and mouse. They contend that it gives them better control. On the other hand, fans of controllers say that they enjoy the more immersive experience that triggers and knobs might provide. Anybody who’s still on the fence can explore the gaming keyboard vs. controller debate by reading an earlier Upsie article.

Spills and early wear represent some of the biggest hazards to gaming equipment. After investing hundreds of dollars on top-notch devices, prudent players should protect their purchase with an Upsie extended warranty. Although Upsie doesn’t warranty stand-alone keyboards, they do protect all of your other gaming devices, PCs and laptops.

Upsie’s extended warranties provide protection from mechanical, power, and hard drive failure. In addition, warranties for laptops, controllers, headsets and consoles include accident protection to safeguard your equipment from drops and liquid damage.

To protect your gaming equipment and ensure it stays in the best shape possible, purchase an Upsie extended warranty.