The main difference between typical keyboards and mechanical setups – the latter of which has been around for decades – is that mechanical keyboards use individual switches and metal springs imbued in each key, rather than rubber domes which, when pressed, complete a circuit. Below, ZDNET has compiled our top mechanical keyboard picks for gamers in 2023, designed to suit hobbyists, professionals, and a range of budgets. Also: Level up with deep discounts on gaming laptops from MSI, Lenovo, and Asus This stunning mechanical keyboard, Corsair’s K100, is a cut above the rest in design and functionality. Corsair has focused on refining the keyboard’s response times with optical-mechanical keys and Axon technology, which the firm says offers up to 8x the performance compared to other gaming keyboards. If you’re a fan of RGB lighting, you’ll enjoy the 44 zones Corsair has included. The keyboard also sports an iCUE control wheel, macro keys, media controls, and a palm rest. You will need to install Elgato streaming software. The Razer Pro Type Ultra is a mechanical keyboard developed for both gaming and work purposes. The keyboard doesn’t feature that satisfying ‘click’ that some gamers would want. Instead, the vendor has implemented stabilizers and ‘Yellow’ mechanical switches to reduce sound. The fuss-free design might appeal more to professionals than to hobbyist gamers. The Steelseries Apex Pro has been on the market for several years but still stands out as a solid mechanical keyboard option for gamers. This product features a full-sized keyboard, an ample wrist rest, and mechanical switches that can be adjusted for sensitivity, an unusual addition. Furthermore, the keyboard is wrapped in an aluminum frame. The Logitech G413 is an excellent entry-level mechanical keyboard to consider. The G413 is reminiscent of traditional keyboards in both key layout and frame, featuring an aluminum top case, PBT keycaps, and tactile switches. This incredibly compact mechanical keyboard from HyperX is perfect for anyone who has a desk on the smaller side. By focusing on the main typing area of the keyboard, HyperX was able to design a super compact keyboard that feels as great as a full-size model. It also features RGB lighting so you can show off your personal style or sync with other HyperX peripherals. And with a USB connection, you won’t have to worry about a battery dying in the middle of a game or your PC dropping a Bluetooth connection during a critical moment. When we made our selection, we included the major, well-known peripheral manufacturers in the space, as well as products suitable for a range of budgets. It should also be noted that properly-cared mechanical keyboards can last far longer than their membrane counterparts. Moreover, with proper care, they’ll last longer. Therefore, you’ll receive enhanced game play and better durability than traditional keyboards. However, if you enjoy the audible “click” of most mechanical keyboards and the feel of the individual springs, it might, at the least, be more enjoyable. However, there are also other mechanical keyboard options worth considering:
