May 2021
Gaming Keyboards: Aggregated Ranking Report
This report contains an aggregate consensus of Gaming Keyboard rankings posted by key online experts, as of May 2021.
Methodology: combine opinions of key experts
Identify Experts
We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend Gaming Keyboards.
Capture Rankings
For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of Gaming Keyboards, it must be updated in the last 9 months.
Aggregate Rankings
We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking
Experts chosen for May 2021 ranking
TechRadar
PC Gamer
Tom's Hardware
PCMag
Tom's Guide
T3
CNET
Laptop Mag
Rtings.com
Digital Trends
At a glance - May 2021 Ranking
| Rank | Price | Gaming Keyboard |
TechRadar
|
PC Gamer
|
Tom's Hardware
|
PCMag
|
Tom's Guide
|
T3
|
CNET
|
Laptop Mag
|
Rtings.com
|
Digital Trends
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
#1
|
$210 |
Corsair K100 RGB
|
-
|
1
|
6
|
7
|
-
|
11
|
-
|
1
|
5
|
-
|
|
#2
|
$180 |
SteelSeries Apex Pro
|
3
|
9
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
|
#3
|
$230 |
Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
2
|
4
|
-
|
|
#4
|
$158 |
Razer Huntsman Elite
|
4
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#5
|
$225 |
Logitech G915
|
-
|
5
|
11
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
|
#6
|
$159 |
Corsair K70 RGB MK.2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
|
#7
|
$39 |
Corsair K55 RGB
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
|
#8
|
$199 |
Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
|
#9
|
Check price |
Corsair K65
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
7
|
|
#10
|
$120 |
Corsair K70 RGB TKL
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
5
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
|
#11
|
$130 |
Roccat Vulcan 120
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
15
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#12
|
$231 |
Corsair K95 Platinum
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#13
|
$116 |
DAS Keyboard X50Q RGB
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#14
|
$110 |
Glorious GMMK
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#15
|
$140 |
Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#16
|
$110 |
HyperX Alloy Origins
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#17
|
$140 |
Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#18
|
$150 |
Logitech G Pro X
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#19
|
$45 |
Razer Cynosa V2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#20
|
$80 |
Razer Huntsman Tournament
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#21
|
$100 |
HyperX Alloy Elite 2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
12
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#22
|
$180 |
Logitech G915 TKL
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
13
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#23
|
$100 |
Whirlwind FX Element
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
#24
|
$61 |
Logitech G413
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
21
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
We ranked Corsair K100 RGB #1 in May 2021 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Corsair K100 RGB as #1.
PC Gamer
The best gaming keyboard
|
Pros
Responsive optical switches
All the RGB, all the time
Premium build quality
|
Cons
Lots of software
|
Tom's Hardware
Best Gaming Keyboard for Work and Play
|
Pros
1mm-actuation optical mechanical switches
Cushioned wrist rest and premium PBT keycaps
|
Cons
Expensive
Some features feel gimmicky
|
PCMag
Best for Streaming
|
Pros
Extra macro buttons, with Stream Deck support
Useful iCue control wheel
Comfortable wrist rest
USB Passthrough
|
Cons
Stream Deck support limited to extra Macro keys
Corsair OPX Optical Switches are an acquired taste
Very expensive
|
T3
A high-end keyboard that feels super-premium
|
Pros
+Beautiful build and design
+Dedicated media keys
+Some great extra features
|
Laptop Mag
The best overall gaming keyboard
|
Pros
Premium attractive build
Comfortable typing experience
Blazing fast key inputs
Tons of functionality and customization options
|
Cons
Pricy
OPX keys need getting used to
|
We ranked SteelSeries Apex Pro #2 in May 2021 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked SteelSeries Apex Pro as #1.
TechRadar
Taking magnetism to another level
|
Pros
+Beautiful aluminum build
+Custom actuation settings
+Quiet
|
Cons
Expensive
|
PC Gamer
The best gaming keyboard for per-key actuation
|
Pros
Per key actuation allows for incredible customization
Robust feature set
Attractive, minimalist deck with full RGB
|
Cons
No macro keys or wrist rest
|
Tom's Hardware
Best Customization
|
Pros
Adjustable per-key actuation points for most keys
5 on-board profiles with RGB and actuation settings
Aluminum build
USB passthrough and some cable management
|
Cons
Questionable long-term typing experience
Expensive
|
We ranked Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro #3 in May 2021 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
Tom's Hardware
Best Wireless Gaming Keyboard
|
Pros
Doubleshot keycaps feel premium, resist smudges
Premium wrist rest
|
Cons
Finicky when battery is very low
No macro keys
|
T3
The best wireless gaming keyboard
|
Pros
+Lag-free wireless connectivity
+Comfortable to use
+Very premium feel
|
Cons
-Some software issues
-Battery life may be an issue
|
Laptop Mag
Best wireless mechanical gaming keyboard
|
Pros
Excellent build quality
Subtle matte black design
Extensive lighting and customization options
Comfortable typing experience
Lag-free wireless input
|
Cons
Pricey
Battery life is a little short
|
We ranked Razer Huntsman Elite #4 in May 2021 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
PC Gamer
The fastest gaming keyboard
|
Pros
Opto-mechanical keys
Beautiful, fully lit, durable full sized board
Dedicated media controls
|
Cons
No USB passthrough or macro keys
|
T3
The best premium gaming keyboard
|
Pros
+Revolutionary optomechanical switches
+Impressive focus on RGB backlighting
+Mature and minimalist design
+Incredibly fast typing performance
|
We ranked Logitech G915 #5 in May 2021 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
PC Gamer
The best wireless gaming keyboard
|
Pros
Lag-free wireless
Great battery life
Low-profile mechanical switches
|
Cons
Macro key placement is odd to some
|
Tom's Hardware
Best Low-Profile Gaming Keyboard
|
Pros
Good for gaming and typing alike
Beautiful slim design
|
Cons
Keys show marks easily
No wrist rest
|
Tom's Guide
The best wireless gaming keyboard
|
Pros
Excellent key switches
Beautiful design
Robust software
|
Cons
No wrist rest
Very expensive
|
We ranked Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 #6 in May 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 as #1.
Tom's Guide
The best gaming keyboard overall
|
Pros
Gorgeous design
Key switch selection
High-quality components
|
Cons
Expensive
|
Laptop Mag
One of the best mechanical keyboards for a seasoned gamer
|
Pros
Stunning aesthetics
Multiple key-switch choices
High-quality build
Useful extras
|
Cons
Expensive
|
We ranked Corsair K55 RGB #7 in May 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
TechRadar
Great for gaming,better for budget streaming
|
Pros
Solid performance
Dedicated macro keys
|
Cons
Membrane switches
|
Laptop Mag
A premium gaming keyboard at a much more affordable price
|
Pros
Bold and vibrant RBG lighting
Extensive lighting and customization options
Comfortable typing experience
Affordably priced
|
Cons
Attractive design
Rubberized cable is cumbersome
Plastic construction flexes easily
|
We ranked Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB #8 in May 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
PC Gamer
The best gaming keyboard for customization and ergonomics
|
Pros
Split keyboard and unique layout to reduce strain
Optional lift kit and wrist rests to improve ergonomics
Extremely customizable
|
Cons
Learning curve on hand positioning
|
Laptop Mag
Best outside-the-box design
|
Pros
Unique split-keyboard design
Optional lift kit to improve ergonomics
Customizable to the max
|
Cons
Lift kit not included
|
We ranked Corsair K65 #9 in May 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
TechRadar
Hard to ignore performance in a compact design
|
Pros
Beautiful yet sturdy
Hyper responsive keystrokes
|
Cons
No way to change elevation
|
Laptop Mag
An impressive compact mechanical gaming keyboard
|
Pros
Neat, compact design
Mesmerising per-key RGB backlighting
Precise and fast key inputs
Lightweight portabilityOnboard profile storage
|
Cons
Pricey
Shortcuts take getting used to
|
We ranked Corsair K70 RGB TKL #10 in May 2021 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Corsair K70 RGB TKL as #1.
PCMag
Best for a Premium Tenkeyless Exprience / Editor's Choice
|
Pros
Media and profile buttons on a tenkeyless keyboard
Physical Tournament Mode switch
Compact design
Detachable USB-C cable
|
Cons
8000Hz isn’t necessary for a keyboard
|
Tom's Guide
The best TKL gaming keyboard
|
Pros
Gorgeous design
Authentic Cherry MX key switches
Handy tournament features
|
Cons
Expensive
Media controls have a learning curve
|
We ranked Roccat Vulcan 120 #11 in May 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
T3
A great all-round premium gaming keyboard
|
Pros
+Silent mechanical keys
+Incredible build quality
+Stunning AIMO lighting
|
We ranked Corsair K95 Platinum #12 in May 2021 because:
- 1 independent expert mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
TechRadar
The Rolls Royce of RGB gaming keyboards
|
Pros
+Hypnotic disco lighting
+Handy media and shortcut keys
+Classy aluminum build
|
Cons
-Awkward software
-Rubber palm rest gets grungy quickly
|
We ranked DAS Keyboard X50Q RGB #13 in May 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked DAS Keyboard X50Q RGB as #1.
T3
The best gaming keyboard for most people
|
Pros
+Gamma Zulu mechanical key switches
+Premium, aluminium build
+Strong RGB brightness
+Full N-Key Rollover
|
We ranked Glorious GMMK #14 in May 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Glorious GMMK as #1.
T3
The best gaming keyboard for modular customisation
|
Pros
+Fully modular
+Simple software
+Robust design
|
We ranked Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro #15 in May 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
TechRadar
First in its class compact gaming keyboard
|
Pros
Fast and accurate performance
Compact form factor
|
Cons
Pricey
|
T3
The best gaming keyboard without a number pad
|
Pros
+Incredibly responsive
+Beautifully bright RGB lighting
+Compact
|
Cons
-High-priced compared to other TKL options
-Very loud switches
|
We ranked HyperX Alloy Origins #16 in May 2021 because:
- 1 independent expert mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
Tom's Hardware
Best Mainstream Gaming Keyboard
|
Pros
Attractive, compact design
Excellent RGB lighting
Three-level rear height adjustment
|
Cons
No dedicated media controls or macro keys
Shorter 1.8mm switch actuation (versus 2mm) feels like a gimmick
NGenuity software could be more intuitive
|
We ranked Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT #17 in May 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
Tom's Hardware
Best Gaming Keyboard Splurge
|
Pros
Comfortable classic design with dedicated media keys and metal volume roller
Double Shot keycaps and wrist rest feel more premium
Elgato Stream Deck support makes macro keys more versatile
|
Cons
Cumbersome cable
Plastic clips on removable wrist rest feel like they could break
Elgato Stream Deck support means installing two pieces of software
|
T3
The best alternative to the Huntsman Elite
|
Pros
Fantastic build quality
Premium look and feel
Excellent RGB lighting and synchronisation
|
We ranked Logitech G Pro X #18 in May 2021 because:
- 1 independent expert mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
We ranked Razer Cynosa V2 #19 in May 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
Tom's Guide
The best budget gaming keyboard
|
Pros
Robust RGB lighting
Profiles and Game Mode
Reasonable price
|
Cons
Convoluted software
Bulky, plain design
|
T3
The best budget membrane gaming keyboard
|
Pros
+Great keyboard feel
+Quiet membrane keys
+Customisable RGB lighting
|
We ranked Razer Huntsman Tournament #20 in May 2021 because:
- 1 independent expert mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
TechRadar
The Razer Huntsman,but smaller and faster
|
Pros
+Fast switches
+Removable cable
|
Cons
-Not many extra features
|
We ranked HyperX Alloy Elite 2 #21 in May 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
PCMag
Best for RGB Fans
|
Pros
Sleek look
HyperX Red mechanical switches
Durable "pudding" keycaps
USB pass-through
Dedicated media buttons and volume roller
|
Cons
No wrist rest
No dedicated macro keys
Ngenuity software is improved but could use slightly better menu organization
|
T3
Everything you could want in a gaming keyboard
|
Pros
+Sharp, responsive switches
+Full set of media keys
|
We ranked Logitech G915 TKL #22 in May 2021 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
Tom's Guide
The best wireless tenkeyless gaming keyboard
|
Pros
Compact size
Excellent switches
Discrete media keys
|
Cons
Extremely expensive
No wrist rest
|
T3
An excellent wired or wireless compact option
|
Pros
+Fantastic typing experience
+Compact form factor
+Plenty of lighting options
|
We ranked Whirlwind FX Element #23 in May 2021 because:
- 1 independent expert mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
T3
The best gaming keyboard for RGB lighting brilliance
|
Pros
+The best RGB lighting in the business
+Super-responsive typing
+Nicely constructed from premium materials
|
We ranked Logitech G413 #24 in May 2021 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Gaming Keyboards” rankings.
T3
A great budget mechanical gaming keyboard
|
Pros
+Precision Romer-G lighting system
+Robust build quality
+Low price point
|