How To Buy A Gaming Keyboard: Factors To Consider

If you’re planning on transforming your computer into a gaming rig, then the set that came out of the box along with your generic desktop computer might not be good enough. Games are continuously becoming advanced, and because of this people are putting so much effort into making sure that they have a seamless gaming experience. A big part of that experience heavily relies on how good your keyboard is.

Buying a keyword wasn’t always a total challenge since function was the primary consideration; right now, there are other factors like ergonomics for guaranteed comfort during gaming time. Some might think that all keyboards are the same since these things may look similar on the outside. However, there are a lot of internal components that could affect your keyboard usage.

Here are some factors you need to consider when buying a gaming keyboard:

1. Switch TypeA switch is the technology right below each key on your keyboard. Switches are what make your keystrokes register on the computer. Switch types determine the responsiveness, feedback and durability of each keys on your keyboard. The switch type is significant in choosing a gaming keyboard because you need to know what switch type will improve your gaming experience.

There are two major types of key switches:

• Rubber Membrane – A rubber membrane is a type of keyboard switch that utilizes rubber sitting; this kind of keyboard is characterized by it’s squishy sound. Cooler Master Masterkeys Lite L is an example of a rubber membrane gaming keyboard. This type of switch is good for casual gamers who doesn’t want to spend so much money on a keyboard since they are considered cheaper. Keys with rubber membrane switch are also soft and quieter when used.

One major drawback for gamers using this type of switch is that they have to push the keys all the way down for it to register.  This can be very challenging for players playing reactive-based games like Counter Strike Global Offensive.

• Mechanical – A mechanical switch utilizes a spring activated switch under each keys. It’s one of the oldest keyboards technology dating back to the 1980’s when IBM first created them. Gamers using a mechanical keyboard will love its tactile keypress feel. Each key is spring-loaded which can offer much higher input feedback and sensitivity. Furthermore, they are easier to repair, and the lifespan of these things can last up to 50 million keystrokes.

Keyboards with mechanical switches can be heavy not just literally, but also on the pocket. They’re also a bit louder when used compared to rubber membrane switch keyboards.

2. Keyboard Connection
   Keyboard connection is how your keyboard will communicate with the computer. It’s an important factor when considering a gaming keyboard because it can dictate how fast your input registers to the computer. Wired and wireless are the two types of keyboard connections currently available on the market.

Wired keyboards use a wire that needs to be connected to a computer. Wired keyboards are easier to find and cheaper than wireless ones which makes them a top choice for gamers.

There are two types of wired connections:

• USB – The USB connection is considered universal because you can basically attach it to any device like a laptop that has a USB port. It’s one of the most popular choices out there but issues like input lag can be expected when USB bus is crowded.
• PS/2 – An almost obsolete technology but, one of the most reliable out there as it has no input delay.

When it comes to choosing which type of wired keyboard to buy, it’s all about compatibility because some central processing units or CPU’s no longer have a PS/2 input.

Wireless keyboards are keyboards that use Bluetooth or RF (radio frequency) to connect to your computer. They are preferred by gamers who value flexibility or those that want to keep their gaming space wire-free. A good wireless keyboard for gaming needs to have a long battery life and an ergonomic design for maximum comfort during long games.

The problem is that wireless keyboards can sometimes have unreliable connection which increases input delay, which is why some professional gamers prefer wired keyboards.

3. 3. Type of Material Used

The keyboard material is important because you’d want a gaming keyboard that’s durable and can manage a few bumps here and there. Some keyboards even feature a metal backplate material which eliminates the risk of bending or in worst cases, breaking during games. Keyboards enclosed in plastic casings, and the type of plastic is what you should look out for when buying one. There are two types of plastic used when manufacturing a keyboard.

1. PVC plastic – It’s an inexpensive material which is common for most generic keyboards. It’s lightweight but can break easily. Can be good enough for casual gamers. Keyboards with rubber membrane switches are usually made of PVC plastic.
2. ABS plastic – This is a type of material is what professional gamers prefer as they are durable and can withstand forceful keystrokes. Keyboards with mechanical switches are usually made with ABS plastic for maximum durability.

4. Extra Features

Gaming keyboards come equipped with extra features you wouldn’t usually see on a regular keyboard. Additional features can be the following:

• Wrist stands to help you avoid experiencing wrist cramps
• Rubberized WASD keys
• Backlighting and dynamic illumination
• Extra customizable keys
• A dedicated software to reconfigure keys

While these features don’t directly impact gameplay or input, they make some aspects of gaming like switching between windows and keyboard customization much easier.

A Good Gaming Keyboard is an Investment

Explore each option you have and think more about the quality of material used and your needs as a gamer. Some gamers may forego keyboard illumination because it’s not something they care about, while some may want to have it because it makes their gaming rig look cooler. Use the above mentioned considerations to select the best gaming keyboard.