Best Gaming Keyboards with Anti-ghosting

The inexpensive mechanical keyboard Bloody S98 Sports is often compared to another recent hit ― Fizz from Redragon. Ideologically, both models are united by being the first genuinely successful mechanical models from A4Tech and Redragon. Previously, both brands frankly struggled with the competent implementation of affordable mechanics. Functionally, both the Fizz and Bloody S98 provide gamers with all the essentials without demanding a motorcycle, jacket, or a ton of money in exchange.

The S98 Sports is a full-sized model with a slightly non-standard layout, where the functional keys are combined with the Num pad. The classic red switches of its own production are the most versatile option for both work and gaming: they are moderately resilient, with a linear stroke and a distinct but not annoying click sound when actuated. At the same time, the keyboard surprises with attention to detail. For example, the legs are adjustable in two positions, the detachable cable can be fixed in three different positions, and the Fn + F9/F10/F11 key combinations can be used for quick switching between gaming modes. Among the model’s strengths is the high polling rate (approx: 1000 Hz), durable keycaps with the possibility of hot swapping, built-in memory, anti-ghosting, customizable RGB backlighting, and several layers of internal sound insulation. Against this backdrop, one might criticize the frankly outdated design of the proprietary software, but that’s more of a nitpick.

Comparisons to Redragon Fizz also concern the appearance of both models. If most mechanical keyboards are made according to a rather dull template, with all elements painted black and backlighting shining from all sides, the A4Tech Bloody S98 Sports, on the contrary, tries to stand out. It features slightly unusual keycaps with beveled edges, all types of keys are highlighted in different colors (e.g., black, gray, and red or yellow), and the backlight looks neat and doesn’t blind during gameplay. In many ways, the design of the model resembles old-school gaming keyboards from a decade ago, yet it creates a more refined and cohesive impression.

The Roccat Vulcan TKL Linear Switch keyboard enhances efficiency in both home and away tournaments and completes the image of a professional e-sports player. The skeleton design with low-profile keys looks original, and customization is available thanks to multizone AIMO RGB lighting with effects. The model is oriented toward dynamic gaming and fast typing, reducing fatigue and maximizing ergonomics. The proprietary TITAN Mechanical Linear switches offer improved mechanics with smooth travel, minimal noise, and a 1.4 mm actuation point. The declared working resource is 50 million clicks. The switches are reliably protected against dust and dirt, requiring no maintenance and maintaining functionality throughout the service life.

The manipulator features a sturdy body with an aluminum plate to increase construction rigidity. Yet, the model remains optimally weighted and features a detachable cable for easy transport. A unique element is the rotary volume control knob. The gadget is fully optimized for gaming. In addition to standard technologies (N-KRO, Anti-Ghosting), the company provides for button programming and the Easy-Shift function for assigning additional actions using a modifier. User templates are saved in memory and can be quickly applied when connected to any PC. The proprietary Swarm II application allows for precise adaption of functionality and appearance to the owner's preferences.

The MSI Vigor GK50 Elite looks like a simple, quality, slightly old-school mechanical keyboard with a slightly unusual set of qualities. First, its body is unusually compact due to the shaved-off side frames. Because of this, it feels like the keys are literally hovering over the table. The second nuance involves experiments with unusual white Kailh switches, which combine a rare range of features: tactile feedback, dry and loud double-click sound, and linear travel. They are certainly noisy, but very comfortable to work with and easy to press. If you overlook the loudness, working on them is sheer pleasure.

Compared to the Vigor models from previous years, a proper RGB backlight with individual LEDs for each key and customization options similar to competitors has finally appeared. I also liked that the delivery set, in addition to the keyboard, includes a pair of replacement "Ctrl" and "Alt" caps. Unlike other caps, they aren't concave but convex, making them more distinguishable by touch. It's a pity there isn't a second set for WASD. However, the proprietary MSI Dragon Center command center is just as bulky and inconvenient. Nevertheless, the keyboard works perfectly fine without it, especially if macros aren't needed. Lighting can be controlled directly from the keyboard using the dedicated function button with a dragon symbol.

As for the mechanical part, everything is in order. The top of the case is made from a solid steel plate, adding rigidity to the structure. The bottom is made of plastic. The build quality is excellent. The impressions during gaming and work are solely positive: the switches are indeed comfortable, and the keyboard securely grips the surface and doesn’t slip. The only thing, the octagonal keycaps feel unusual under the fingertips, but this is a matter of habit, which takes no more than a couple of days.

The NZXT Function Tenkeyless keyboard stands out with its advanced construction and repairability. The model is designed for prolonged gaming in various modes with enhanced comfort due to the detachable stand with a soft cover. The company developed its own Gateron Red linear switches with a long lifespan. They provide smooth travel with minimal effort and a typical mechanical sound background. A key feature is the support for quick switch replacement (Hot Swap). This allows restoring functionality to frequently used keys without complex repairs and adapting them to personal preferences using elements of another type (Tactile, Clicky). The set includes tools for safe and quick removal. The body is reinforced with a metal plate, which protects the board from warping and damage, adds rigidity during active gaming sessions and transportation. Another useful addition is the detachable cable, which is easily replaceable if damaged.

The Skeleton concept, combined with multizone RGB backlighting, allows customizing the appearance and quickly changing the design using proprietary software or hotkeys. A wide variety of modes and effects are available. There is also the possibility of programming buttons, creating macros, and saving four templates for adaptation to different gaming genres and specific games. Key technologies necessary for effective gaming — N-KRO, Anti-Ghosting — are embedded in the firmware. Additional buttons are present on the side panel for quickly muting sound, activating gaming mode, and adjusting brightness. Volume control is carried out by a wheel with a rubber coating.

BlackWidow is, without the slightest exaggeration, a legendary series of gaming keyboards. Under these flags, more than a dozen diverse yet similar in essence keyboards have been released, following the proven formula for success: nearly perfect ergonomics, high-quality materials, reliable build, flexible macro management, and proprietary switches.

In the case of the compact tournament model BlackWidow V3 TKL, long-tested “green” switches from Razer are used, which in terms of characteristics and tactile sensations resemble Cherry Blue switches. They have a high response speed, medium actuation/reset values, and a small return to the original position distance. Only Razer switches have a higher refusal resource (80 million) and greater moisture resistance. By the way, such a combination of characteristics allows for comfortable typing on the BlackWidow V3 TKL as well. Provided, of course, that the sound of mechanical keyboard clicking doesn’t bother you. If it does, try the version with smooth and quiet yellow switches.

As for the appearance, the third version of BlackWidow TKL is not significantly different from its predecessors: it’s the same neat keyboard in a miniature aluminum case with slightly beveled edges. The main innovation is the reinforced Doubleshot ABS keycaps, created using double injection molding. Concerning RGB backlighting, it uses the same Razer Chroma RGB system, which can be customized as desired in the proprietary Razer Synapse application. There, you can also set macro sets, link individual sets to each specific game, etc. We regularly encounter this software and consistently praise its straightforward interface and fairly flexible set of settings.