After the launch of the Razer BlackWidow in 2010 as one of the first mechanical gaming keyboards, the peripherals have gradually become the centerpieces of gaming rigs. The technology has evolved considerably since then, with mechanical switches now more durable and allowing for pinpoint typing accuracy. Thanks to the proliferation of these keyboards in the marketplace, deciding on which device is right for a particular gamer is as difficult as mastering any game.

RELATED: Wired vs. Wireless Mouse: Which Is Better For Gaming?

Some of the major considerations for prospective buyers of mechanical gaming keyboards include price, size, and whether wired or wireless connectivity is preferable. Clicky mechanical keyboards are generally more expensive than membrane alternatives with mushier feeling keypresses. Even so, there is a wide range of asking prices among mechanical keyboards which don't necessarily correspond to build quality or feature sets. Some versions of this vital gaming gear are surprisingly compact and portable, while other full-sized options are better suited as permanent desktop accessories. Among the following contenders, a casual gamer or Esports competitor can find the best mechanical keyboard to elevate their gaming experience.

The Razer Huntsman V2 Analog is a keyboard that conforms to the old adage: If it isn't broken, don't fix it. And there isn't really much more to improve on when it comes to this analog switch-based keyboard. The Huntsman V2 Analog screams premium build quality meets great design as it captures the essence of what a high-end mechanical gaming keyboard should represent for gamers. Its USB 3.0 passthrough also makes it more convenient to access files on a flash drive or connect devices to wireless dongles.

Technically, the switches on the Huntsman V2 Analog are not mechanical in the traditional sense. However, the still fairly clicky analog switches allow for greater precision, enabling Esports pros to customize actuation points and even simulate a controller. Also, since the keyboard uses light to measure the travel distance of keys, the switches should prove to be especially durable.

With an included magnetic leather-based wrist rest that also has RGB support, the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog is an excellent candidate for the best mechanical keyboard you can buy in 2023, even if it comes at a significant price and is limited to being wired-only.

For more on what makes this keyboard the overall best mechanical keyboard, make sure you check out our full review of the Razer Hunstman V2 Analog.

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL shares much in common with the Razer Huntsman V2 Analog, as both keyboards utilize linear switches with adjustable travel distances. However, the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL is a more compact wired gaming keyboard without a number pad and offers a few other perks that its Razer competition lacks.

Boasting 2-in-1 Action Keys, gamers can set different actions with buttons, pushing lightly or with more force to walk or run in a game. Actuation points for the keys on the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL can be set between .2 and 3.8 mm. The OmniPoint Switches provide a faster response time than most mechanical keyboards and can endure 100 million keypresses.

RELATED: Steelseries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless Headset Review

The OLED display on the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL is a nice addition that helps to justify its high-end pricetag. This display is about more than flashiness, as the tiny screen on the upper right-hand part of the keyboard gives some important information about what keyboard profile is active and allows users to change various settings. The OLED display allows for some functionality that gamers normally would have to load the SteelSeries Engine software to access. Considering the app is rather buggy and not the most intuitive to use, this addresses some of the minor shortcomings of the keyboard.

Other than the OLED window, the Apex Pro TKL looks like a rather standard gaming keyboard. Durability is clearly what the company is aiming for, using a Series 5000 metal top plate that shares the same aluminum construction as the materials found in aircraft. This heavy-duty piece of gaming gear does come to life, with per-key RGB effects customizable in the Engine app.

Despite some drawbacks with its software, the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL is the best mechanical keyboard for gamers who seek the reliability that only a wired peripheral can provide.

The Asus ROG Azoth is the company's latest attempt to take on the premium mechanical market but unlike some of its prior efforts, this one is a hit on every level and then some. It comes with one of the most complete kits you could ask for to customize and upgrade your keyboard. The ROG Azoth is somewhat smaller than some of its TKL-tier (Ten Key Less) competitors. Still, the difference is insignificant given the considerable weight as well as the excellent build quality expected from high-end mechanical keyboards.

RELATED: Best Wireless Gaming Headsets For 2023

Effectively countering the notion that wireless mechanical keyboards can't match the performance of wired alternatives, the ASUS ROG Azoth features tri-mode connectivity with minimal latency. The ROG SpeedNova Wireless protocol is so power efficient that the keyboard can last up to 2,000 hours on a single charge. Also, gamers can toggle between 3 connected devices using the Bluetooth capabilities of the ROG Azoth.

Ironically, what is normally ASUS's biggest strength when it comes to software solutions is its greatest weakness here with Armory Crate offering limited and bloated control for an accessory. Asus might want to consider branching out its accessory software solutions to a different, more lightweight software component. That being said, the OLED screen on the Azoth is beautiful as is the system information it displays with ease

Do check out our detailed, hands-on Asus ROG Azoth review which highlights some of our findings and impressions of the best mechanical keyboard for gaming cord-free.

The Epomaker SkyLoong SK61 is an excellent budget gaming keyboard that is priced extremely well compared to the competition, making it arguably the best-value gaming keyboard on our list. It's built to last, albeit in a more 'plastic' approach to the construction in a bid to keep costs down. It comes with 6 different switch options, all of which are made by the switch-making company Gateron. RELATED: The Best Budget Gaming Mouse for 2023

The keyboard itself is IPX6 certified when it comes to its mainboard, meaning it's rated to be waterproof and dustproof. It does make a few compromises, but they can be considered acceptable in most cases; It eliminates a kickstand, going for a flat (but slightly raised) profile for an otherwise completed flat back. The slightly dimmer backlight similarly is something that can also be considered a tradeoff for the price and relatively good battery life out of the box compared to other wireless mechanical gaming keyboards.

The Logitech G915 TKL keyboard is in a class of its own when it comes to the best mechanical keyboards. With a full suite of connectivity options coupled with decent battery life with RGB turned on and 3 different switch types to choose from (linear, clicky, and tactile), this keyboard is packed with everything a gamer needs.

As a low-profile ergonomic-friendly keyboard, the Logitech G915 TKL is a dream to type on for hours at a time. There is no included wrist rest, but with a streamlined design and several incline settings, the comfort of gamers is assured.

The one gripe we have with the G915 TKL is it forgoing the use of a Type C connector, something that could make life a lot easier versus a relatively obsolete MicroUSB cable currently featured for charging and wired use. This, however, is an acceptable tradeoff for what is otherwise a fantastic keyboard with superfast low latency wireless on tap. Logitech's G Hub software suite is better than most of its competitors, designed specifically around its accessory offerings.

For an attractive RGB keyboard that gives the experience of a mechanical keyboard on a budget, check out our review of the Logitech G213 Prodigy.

The HyperX Alloy Origins is an attractive and compact wired mechanical gaming keyboard that focuses on the essentials. The device is able to achieve its highly competitive price point by ditching extras like a wrist rest, extra media keys, or a USB pass-through port. Even so, the Alloy Origins is as portable as any full-sized keyboard, with a detachable braided USB-C cable.

With the Alloy Origins, HyperX introduces its own custom mechanical switches, which seek the right balance between accurate typing and a low actuation force that allows for rapid inputs. HyperX offers 3 available switch types when ordering the keyboard, including Blue Clicky, Linear Red, and Aqua. The Linear Red switches are sensitive but rather quiet, while the Aqua switches provide a firm feel when typing on. For gamers who appreciate louder keyboards, the Blue Clicky option has an actuation point of just 1.8 mm and a 3.8 mm travel distance.

Even with its attractive asking price, the HyperX is a compact tank of a mechanical keyboard, heavier than one would expect at 2.36 lbs. While this takes away somewhat from the mobility of the peripheral, the generous amount of aluminum used to craft the Alloy Origins makes it feel like a quality piece of gaming gear.

RELATED: HyperX Clutch Gladiate Enhanced Wired Controller Review

The HyperX RGB ecosystem may not be as well-known as Corsair iCue or Razer Chroma, but regardless it's shown in its full glory here. The switches in the Alloy Origins feature exposed LED lights, which makes the lighting effects more visible both when looking down at the keyboard and glancing at it from its sides. Unfortunately, customizing these patterns in the HyperX NGenuity software is not always user-friendly, often taking a long series of clicks to make some simple changes.

A lack of a volume slider or media controls is also somewhat disappointing. Still, there is a small lit display on the top right of the keyboard that informs users when gaming mode is active. Users can also switch between 3 onboard button mapping profiles if accessing the NGenuity app is not an option.

Some shortcomings aside, the HyperX Alloy Origins is the best mechanical gaming keyboard for gamers desperate for a more portable yet well-built device.

Whenever a trend emerges with gaming peripherals, it inevitably is taken to the extreme. Tenkeyless keyboards offer only the essential keys without the number pad that is unlikely to find much use in Esports competitions. For pro gamers who want to preserve valuable desk space for mouse movements, 60% keyboards trim a standard layout even further. On the Razer Huntsman Mini, extra keys like media controls aren't even a consideration, and top-row function keys are also a casualty of these keyboards' compactness.

Full-sized Razer keyboards like the Huntsman V2 Analog brought some impressive innovations to the marketplace. The Razer Huntsman Mini gives gamers the opportunity to experience Razer's optical analog switches in a much smaller and more affordable device. Users can better emulate the movements possible with game controllers and joysticks since the keys on the Huntsman Mini are flexible enough to move in a 360-degree fashion.

RELATED: Razer Blackshark V2 Pro (2023) Review

Smaller keyboards don't have to suffer from a lesser build quality, and the Huntsman Mini sports the same aluminum construction as Razer's other premium mechanical keyboards. Even weighing less than 1 lb, the durability of this 60% keyboard is not in question, which even includes Doubleshot PBT Keycaps. Gamers won't have to worry about letters and numbers wearing off over time, and the keycaps are well-equipped to withstand abuse. Razer Chroma RGB lighting is also present on the Huntsman Mini, and gives an impressive display even with less surface area to work with.

Of course, a 60% keyboard presents certain challenges to buyers looking for an all-around gaming keyboard that's also suitable for office work. Without function buttons, users will have to learn some additional shortcuts, but Razer does help matters by imprinting secondary commands on the sides of its keycaps. The Razer Synapse software becomes even more critical with the Huntsman Mini, but thankfully its powerful customization enables gamers to make the shortcuts as intuitive as possible.

With a detachable USB cord, this ultra-compact keyboard clearly has the most appeal to Esports competitors constantly on the move. Regardless, the Razer Hunstman Mini largely accomplishes its goal of shrinking down a feature-packed keyboard without sacrificing cutting-edge switch and keycap technology.

As impressive as RGB lighting is on mice, headsets, and speakers, keyboards remain the ideal peripheral to showcase these effects. With a larger canvas to work with, individual key lighting can create some complex patterns that are not only diverse but also functional. Whether a gamer is looking for highlighted game-specific controls or just some pretty rainbow effects, Corsair iCue and the K70 RGB Pro deliver.

Beyond its RGB lighting, the Corsair K70 RGB Pro has plenty to offer in the performance department as well. This wired mechanical gaming keyboard relies on Axon Hyper-Processing technology, which registers key inputs at up to an 8,000 Hz polling rate with key scanning at 4,000 Hz. Axon also has an influence on the keyboard's RGB capabilities, allowing the device to process commands rapidly and coordinate lighting at the same time. As we have seen with some high-end mice, the Corsair K70 RGB Pro's polling rate is far too advanced for the typical gamer to notice, but nevertheless, it's an impressive accomplishment.

The keys on the Corsair K70 RGB Pro are perfect for taking advantage of the device's computing power, with a wide selection of Cherry MX switches available. Whether a gamer opts for Red, Speed, Brown, Blue, or Silent switches, the polycarbonate double-shot keycaps add durability to the K70 RGB pro. The frame of the keyboard is composed of aluminum, so a few drops aren't going to threaten the life of the keyboard.

The K70 RGB Pro weighing in at 2.64 lbs is nothing unusual for a full-sized mechanical keyboard, but it does occupy a serious amount of real estate on a desktop. Other keyboards sneak in a volume slider or media buttons to the right of function keys, but this Corsair keyboard dedicates a top row to these extra commands. It's noticeably slimmer without the magnetic wrist rest, which feels spongy and unpleasant, and is somewhat of a weak point for the keyboard.

The tournament switch is another feature that caters to Esports pros, allowing gamers to quickly disable extraneous macros and distracting lighting effects. Unique features like this along with its industry-leading performance often find the keyboard in competitive tournaments. Whether you are a casual gamer or a professional, the Corsair K70 RGB Pro is the best mechanical keyboard to add flair to a PC rig.

If you still aren't sure if this keyboard is the right choice for you, read our complete review of the Corsair K70 RGB Pro.

Lost in a Maze of Mechanical Gaming Keyboards?

One thing that this guide has made apparent is there is no shortage of top-tier mechanical gaming keyboards to choose from. The possibilities range from the distinctive-looking and budget-friendly Epomaker Skyloong SK61 to the innovative but pricey Razer Huntsman V2 Analog.

Price is an important factor when shopping for these peripherals, but size is another very practical consideration. The standard full-sized keyboard includes a number pad and function keys, but these are often unnecessary when gaming is the focus. As a result, tenkeyless keyboards without number keys are available as well as 60% keyboards that lack both function and number keys. Each variety of keyboard has a significant effect on how much desk space a device occupies and how portable each is.

As with other peripherals like gaming headsets and mice, whether a wired or wireless keyboard is preferred is another critical decision in the buying process. Traditionally, mechanical keyboards have favored wired or USB connections to eliminate any chance of latency. However, cord-free mechanical keyboards are now more common with wireless protocols that match or exceed the performance of wired devices. The Asus ROG Azoth is an example of a wireless keyboard with the performance and extraordinary battery life to match any corded competitor.

The good news is that the age of all-plastic gaming keyboards with short life expectancies is largely now behind us. Mechanical keyboards are still a considerable investment but are among the most essential and durable pieces of gear a gamer can acquire.

FAQ:

Q: Is a wireless mechanical keyboard better than a wired one?

A: Most wireless mechanical keyboards do use 2.4Ghz as a wireless band with a dongle. This is relatively low latency versus other options that are more mainstream such as Bluetooth; some keyboards support both for example. Keyboards like the ROG Azoth and the Logitech G915 have come a long way, offering 1ms and 1000Hz wireless polling to help competitive gamers have a similar low-latency experience that wired gamers are accustomed to.

Q: Is a budget mechanical gaming keyboard worth it?

A: Yes, absolutely. Mechanical keyboards have evolved tremendously over the last few years and even the entry-level options do deliver on the promise of a better typing or gaming experience in general when compared to their membrane alternatives.

MORE: Best PC Cases in 2023

FAQ

Q: Is a wireless mechanical keyboard better than a wired one?

Most wireless mechanical keyboards do use 2.4Ghz as a wireless band with a dongle. This is relatively low latency versus other options that are more mainstream such as Bluetooth; some keyboards support both for example. Keyboards like the ROG Azoth and the Logitech G915 have come a long way, offering 1ms and 1000Hz wireless polling to help competitive gamers have a similar low-latency experience that wired gamers are accustomed to.

If cable clutter and range are key issues, the wireless ones have an edge over the wired options you might consider. Otherwise, you can't really go wrong with one choice over the other.

Q: Is a budget mechanical gaming keyboard worth it?

Yes, absolutely. Mechanical keyboards have evolved tremendously over the last few years and even the entry-level options do deliver on the promise of a better typing or gaming experience in general when compared to their membrane alternatives.