How have gaming keyboards evolved over the years?

In the 2000s, most gamers did not choose and play on what they could, and expensive keyboards from Razer were only seen on the covers of gaming magazines. When a demand for gaming products appeared in the late 2000s, manufacturers began to experiment with the design and functionality of models. So useful things appeared in gaming models, such as programmable keys, anti-ghosting, built-in memory, game mode that deactivates the Windows key, interchangeable keycaps and much more. And the appearance of a typical gaming keyboard began to resemble the dashboard of a starship from an old Sci-Fi movie.

The evolution of gaming keyboards: from plain membrane keyboards to trendy mechanical models with RGB backlighting.

In subsequent years, the design of gaming keyboards has become more restrained and calmer, and the backlighting of the keys, often with special effects and the ability to synchronize, is most often responsible for the visual component. The focus when choosing gaming models has shifted to convenience, and many gamers have wondered what exactly helps them win the game?

Dimensions: full size or compact?

Common keyboard sizes: from 100% to 60%.

Keyboards come in several formats, which differ in the number of keys and the area of the base. A "standard" keyboard with a numeric keypad, a block of navigation keys and a functional row F1 – F12 refers to the 100% format. Next come the compact (TKL) and ultra-compact keyboard varieties, with fewer keys and tighter layouts. Compact models usually do not have a numeric block, and its size is about 80% of the size of a full-size model. Ultra-compact TKL models usually do not have Numpad, arrows, a block with Delete, PrtScr keys and function keys F1– F12. In some cases, there are not even numbers on top. The TKL size can range from 65 to 50%. In the most compact versions, the keys are quite heaped, which will not appeal to all gamers.

The size of the gaming keyboard is chosen depending on the preferences of the user and the system they use. Most gamers usually choose full-size models, often with additional programmable keys (more on that later), since there is usually a lot of free space on the computer table, and the numpad can come in handy not only for games. Compact models were originally created for professional esports players who need a strong and mobile keyboard without extra keys to participate in esports tournaments. Compact and ultra-compact keyboards can have more interesting designs or visually separated key layouts with zonal backlighting that appeal to gamers who want to give their gaming PC an aesthetically pleasing look.

Keypads are a “stub” of a keyboard with Space, WADS and other keys important for a gamer. In fact, this is an extreme version of an ultra-compact gaming keyboard, which literally cut off everything superfluous. At the same time, keypads are often equipped with a palm rest and a block with additional programmable keys.

Compact Keyboards

Mechanical or membrane keyboards – which key design to choose?

There are two main types of key construction: classic, in which the keystroke is fixed using a rubber membrane, and mechanical models with spring switches. There are also hybrid mechanical-membrane and membrane-mechanical keyboards, however, these are almost always experimental models that occupy a minimal market share, so we will not dwell on them.

Membrane switches are a classic in the world of keyboards, quiet, inexpensive and not overly responsive switches based on silicone membranes. The silicone membrane registers both the pressing itself and the return of the key to its original position, but it does not do this very quickly. Because of this, experienced gamers consider them slow and not very accurate, preferring mechanical switches. Also, over time, depending on the wear of the keys, the pressure sensitivity may change. At the same time, due to their low price and simplicity, they can be a great option for beginners and casual gamers who just want to play with friends, and not dominate online.

Keyboards with mechanical switches are responsive and fast because the mechanism does not require a full key press. The key travel does not change over time, and the life of mechanical switches is usually higher than that of membranes. Switches are divided into several types according to their properties (blue, red, yellow, etc.), which sound differently and are better suited for certain game genres (more on this in the next section). All switches have the same dimensions and the same fastening of the caps, so if necessary, they can be lubricated separately or changed. The main minus of the mechanical type is the cost, on average, 4 times higher than membrane keyboards. They also click loudly, which delights some gamers and annoys others.

Opto-mechanical switches are a relatively new and promising development that can compete with pure mechanical type. An optical sensor is used, which detects the change in the light flux and determines that the key has been pressed. They stand out with fast response speed, which makes them the best option for dynamic game genres like shooters. Many gamers consider optical switches to be the future of gaming keyboards.

Mechanical Keyboards

What are the types of switches and what games are they more suitable for?

The 3 most common types of mechanical switches.

The first type of mechanical switches were linear switches from the German company Cherry, introduced in 1983. Subsequently, new types of mechanical switches appeared, with different types of springs, different actuation speeds and click types. Cherry MX started the trend of separating them by colour: blue, red, yellow, etc.

The optimal choice will depend on your gaming preferences and the type of click. This issue should be taken seriously, otherwise you can become another dissatisfied user who spent $150 on mechanical model, and now complains that he need to press the keys with effort, and it clicks so loudly that the cat fled the room in horror.

Cherry MX Red is a switch with linear travel, low actuation force and no audio feedback. Ideal for games like shooters and soulslikes that require quick and instant keystrokes.

Cherry MX Blue is a switch with a crisp actuation point and a distinct click sound like in an expensive typewriter. Often used for games that require high keystroke precision, such as strategy or MOBA games.

Cherry MX Brown is a relatively fast switch with tactile feedback but no click. It is the golden mean between red and blue switches. Such options are often bought not so much for games as for writing text or code.

Cherry MX Black is a switch with linear travel, no tactile feedback and higher actuation force than red switches. A smooth key travel is somewhat reminiscent of membrane switches. Because of this, they are better suited for games like RTS or MMO, in which the player operates with numerous keyboard shortcuts.

Cherry MX Speed is a linear travel switch with low actuation force and short travel. It differs in speed of reaction, and it is popular among fans of shooters.

Keyboards with Linear Switches

Switches of which manufacturer to choose?

Which manufacturer to choose so as not to make a mistake?

As for the choice of a switch manufacturer, it all depends on the player's low-cost. Cherry MX switches are considered one of the most reliable and high quality switches. The switch mechanism is lubricated during assembly, and the average number of keystrokes can reach 100 million. A trouble-free classic.

More affordable options are clones of Cherry switches from Chinese brands Gateron, Kailh and Outemu. Players speak differently about them: someone praises and rejoices at the opportunity to save money, someone complains about the rapid wear of the keys. Everything depends on luck. In our experience, the most successful Cherry clones come from Gateron. In terms of their physical characteristics, they are very similar to Cherry MX switches, the main difference is a smoother travel and a smaller number of keystrokes. Also sometimes they have backlash.

Clones from Kailh fall into the "cheap so count on luck" category. The mechanism lacks the smoothness of Cherry, the spring may backlash, the number of keystrokes is smaller, and the quality may differ markedly depending on the keyboard model. There is no question of any constancy. But Kailh has quite interesting switches of its own production – BOX and Speed.

Outemu is probably the most compromise option in terms of price and design. Usually found in the most low-cost keyboards, but despite the price, they are quite pleasant to the touch. As in the case of Kailh, they are not consistent, which is why the quality may vary depending on the keyboard model.

Major manufacturers like Razer and Logitech also offer good gaming switches that can cost less or more than Cherry products. For Razer, the switches are made by Kailh, so the quality is about the same. Perhaps the most successful of them are tactile green switches with an actuation force of 50 grams and a rather loud click.

Logitech keyboards used to run on switches from Cherry, but subsequently established a partnership with the Omron brand and introduced its line of switches GL, GX and Romer. In terms of cost and quality, they are approximately the same as Cherry, however, in terms of their physical and tactile sensations, they stand out from the usual range of red, blue and brown switches, which is why some players praise them, while others, on the contrary don't like them.

Keyboards with Cherry MX Switches

Only wire!

Wired connection is a classic.

The next question to ask yourself is whether to take wired or wireless model< /a>? For games, it is definitely better to take a wired one, since it instantly transmits information about keystrokes to the system and does not suffer from the delays inherent in a wireless connection. During the game, its radio communication will not fall off. And you don't have to deal with batteries. If you are worried that the cable may become unusable over time, we recommend that you look at options with a replaceable cable or wire in a protective braid. Alternatively, you can sit on both chairs at once, paying extra for a keyboard with a combined connection.

Design

A gaming keyboard doesn't have to be gray and boring.

According to the design of the case, gaming keyboards are divided into classic and frameless. The first are strict rectangles in which the base is covered from above. The frameless case, commonly referred to as the Skeleton, has no top plate, and uncovered keys rise above the body. This design simplifies the cleaning of the keys and does not limit the backlight in any way. An important design element is the palm rest. Quite a useful, albeit optional, thing that directly affects ergonomics. It can be detached or be a continuation of the body.

Macros, backlight, built-in memory and proprietary software

A comfortable palm rest is a very useful feature.

Keyboards may have backlit keys and additional features such as the ability to disable the Windows key or built-in USB connectors. These features can improve comfort and usability.

Programmable keys make it possible to bind some game actions, key combinations or a sequence of actions to them. For example, reassign the store menu in CS:GO to a free button. Or perform a complex sequence of actions in WOW with just one button. That is why many online players call macros legal cheats.

Built-in memory allows gamers to save various macro, backlight and function key settings directly to the keyboard's memory. The convenience here is that the user does not have to install drivers or proprietary software, you can simply connect the keyboard to another PC and play as you are used to.

Keyboards with Backlight

The backlight is not a feature for everyone. Solid or complex RGB backlighting can help the novice gamer better navigate the game keys when playing in low light. On the contrary, it annoys many experienced fighters, distracting them from what is happening on the screen. In modern realities, backlight is purely aesthetic, not functional. Many gamers are willing to pay extra for zone lighting with a synchronization system that will glow in time with the rest of the components.

Is it worth focusing on cost?

Model with many options.

Price can be one of the main factors when choosing a gaming keyboard.

However, it does not always play a critical role and acts as a guaranty of quality. For example, large manufacturers like Razer often charge for the brand, while their quality does not always match the level of Cherry switches. A reverse example is the inexpensive and popular keyboards from A4Tech, which, in terms of accuracy and convenience, leave behind more expensive keyboards. Perhaps the main rule to follow when choosing is not to save too much when choosing a mechanical keyboard, mediocre switches can completely ruin the first acquaintance, after which another dissatisfied user will appear on the Internet, scolding the mechanical models.

Last parting word

The main thing when choosing a gaming keyboard is not to rush and feel it all by yourself.

While all of these criteria are important when choosing a gaming keyboard, the most important is the user's personal preference and ease of use. Therefore, we strongly recommend 2 things – pre-select the appropriate options according to reviews, and then click on them yourself in the store, check the responsiveness of the keys and the quality of the mechanical switches, evaluate the ergonomics and convenience. These are too individual things, which is why you can find completely different opinions in reviews of the same keyboard. And when choosing the first mechanical keyboard in your life, it would be great to find one of your friends or acquaintances who are ready to give you their mechanical model for a couple of days to test. If this is not possible, there are enough detailed reviews on YouTube in which a lot of time is devoted specifically to switches.