No gaming set is complete without a keyboard, primarily because it's the primary method of input whether you're playing a game or just using a computer. For gaming, you'll definitely want a mechanical keyboard for the increased response time and admittedly attractive RGB capabilities. With the recent announcement of the Steam Deck, Valve's new portable handheld, a smaller keyboard will come in handy. A mini keyboard is a fantastic option when you're in the office or on the go as it can usually be wired or connected via Bluetooth Although there are a plethora of options we've done our best to narrow down the best choices for everyone. players.
MOTHER PRO 2
The ANNE PRO 2 is a nice little keyboard that is sure to meet all your gaming needs. It features a compact minimalist design while still having all the features you need. These features include customizable RGB backlit keys, fully programmable keys, and Bluetooth 4.0. With an 8-hour battery life, you'll find it performs well for both short sessions and longer sessions. Plus, the ANNE PRO 2 comes with Obinskit software for even more customization. This mini keyboard comes in several switch styles, but overall it offers low latency, great feedback, and isn't very loud. The only downside of the ANNE PRO 2 is its lack of an arrow plate as well as poor ergonomics which can eventually cause wrist pain. All in all, it's a great choice, especially considering it costs less than $100.
Ducky One 2 Mini
This is a fantastic mini keyboard and priced at $119, the Ducky One 2 Mini has the qualities of high-end keyboards while being relatively inexpensive. It has a high quality feel as it was designed to provide the best durability and typing experience. Although it comes standard in a "stylish black and white panda contrast color", there are several color options available. The Ducky One 2 Mini comes with backlit keys that can be set to 10 different types of RGB modes, as well as speed and color. To avoid wrist pain, it is equipped with adjustable three-angle double-layered feet that keep it very stable. The main downside of this keyboard is its lack of dedicated media keys, number pad, and function buttons.
Cooler Master MK730 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
With a name like Cooler Master, it would be logical to expect some cool features in the Cooler Master MK730 mechanical gaming keyboard and it certainly doesn't disappoint. First, we have to mention the on-the-fly feature that lets you adjust per-key backlighting, record macros, and change in-game lighting modes with the press of a few keys. For even finer tuning, Cooler Master has its own easy-to-use software that works in conjunction with this keyboard. Moreover, it comes with Cherry MX switches to ensure fast and accurate response time. For added comfort, this keyboard has a removable magnetic wrist rest to prevent pain during long sessions. With a detachable USB Type-C cable, you can use this keyboard wired or wirelessly. All of this is available for a surprisingly high price of $129,99 and can also often be picked up on sale.
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Corsair K70 RGB TKL Series Champion
The Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series is a bargain at just $139,99 and even goes on sale regularly for better savings. Corsair has always produced high-end products and their keyboards are no different. This keyboard, in particular, features 8000Hz hyper polling and by flipping its tournament mode switch, the Corsair K70 is up to 8x faster than standard gaming keyboards. It also has customizable RGB backlit keys to personalize it however you see fit. In addition, it has a detachable USB Type-C cable to eliminate any problems that may arise through a wireless connection. It features fantastic build quality as well as sweat and oil resistance for long intense sessions. The keys are a bit closer together than other keyboards, so you might have to adapt. The Corsair K70 is available in several styles, although the Cherry MX Speed Silver tends to be the most popular for its lightning response time and short actuation distance.
E-Element Z-88 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
When it comes to the budget, it doesn't get much more friendly than the E-Element Z-88 RGB mechanical gaming keyboard. You'd expect that at $42,99 this keyboard would lack many features of its more expensive competitors, but you'd be surprised at what's included here. It is available in five different colors and has several options where the type changes for all preferences. For its RGB backlit keys, there are a variety of different lighting modes that can be changed with just a few keystrokes. It has a fairly compact design, which you'd expect from a mini keyboard, and it features anti-ghosting keys that aren't too loud when pressed as well as a quick response time. Finally, it has an ergonomic design that will prevent fatigue during long gaming sessions and a high-speed USB cable.
HyperX Origins 60 Alloy
The small HyperX Alloy Origins 60 is a fantastic choice for those who prefer small. Available for just under $100, this keyboard falls somewhere between budget and high dollar while still offering the benefits of both. It's constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum and features three customizable angles as well as a detachable USB C cable. The HyperX alloy comes in red, aqua, and blue switch options, and whichever you choose, you can expect speed and precision. The RGB backlit keyboard offers advanced customization via HyperX's NGENUITY software that lets you customize game mode, create macros, and configure lighting effects. While the HyperX alloy has a compact design and therefore fewer keycaps, with the stock double-shot PBT keycaps you don't lose any function and because the secondary functions are printed on the keys they are easy to find.
Related: When Is The Steam Deck Coming Out?
Logitech Pro X gaming keyboard
Logitech is a proven name in the gaming industry due to its high quality product and support. The Logitech Pro X gaming keyboard offers the experience of a premium keyboard while being under $100. As a mini keyboard and featuring a keyless design, the Pro X can easily be taken anywhere and with its detachable micro USB cable it can be played wired or via Bluetooth. This keyboard was designed for competitive gaming and therefore offers a performance that combines speed, precision and silence of the keys. Its switches can be changed manually by the user, which ensures that it is customizable for any type of gamer and also extends the life of the keyboard. For added stability, the Logitech Pro X features three-step angled legs with rubber feet. Finally, the Pro X has 12 programmable F-Key macros that can be customized with Logitech's G Hub software. Logitech targeted the pro scene with this keyboard and made a compelling case for why you should buy this keyboard over others.
Razer Huntsman Mini Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Another name that needs no introduction is Razer and although the Razer Black Widow range is one of the most popular, the Razer Huntsman Mini Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is an innovative and fantastic keyboard. Razer has added linear optical switch technology to make this keyboard faster than traditional mechanical switches. As a result, gamers will experience much faster response time and typing speed. The Huntsman Mini also offers ultimate customization and immersion with its backlit keyboard that can sync with popular games. The Razer Huntsman also features fully programmable macros for even more customization. Since this mini keyboard is designed for mobility, it has a durable, high-quality construction to prevent dirt buildup and damage. For Switches, the Razer Huntsman comes in industry-standard red or purple, but reviewers tend to find the purple missing. Therefore, until the issues are resolved with the Purple Clicky Opticals, you should stick with the linear red switches.
Redragon K552 KUMARA RVB
The Redragon K552 KUMARA RGB is a surprisingly fantastic keyboard at a fantastic price. This budget laptop costs less than $50, but still maintains a high quality standard. It features custom Cherry Blue equivalent switches that provide great durability and responsiveness. You wouldn't expect RGB capabilities from a keyboard at this price, but of course that's a feature of the Redragon K552 KUMARA. Not only that, but RGB is also available in 18 different lighting modes. For its design, there's nothing that really stands out when it comes to looks, but it does have an ergonomic, keyless design with adjustable angles. It also has a high-speed USB cable that unfortunately isn't detachable and is designed to be spill-proof, but you shouldn't take it to the water park. Overall for its price, the Redragon K552 KUMARA RGB is a fantastic addition to anyone's gaming build and especially those who have blown their budget on mice, headsets and monitors.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Mechanical Keyboard
SteelSeries has always produced quality products that also look stylish. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Mechanical Keyboard falls into these two categories and is priced a bit higher, but it's definitely worth it. This keyboard comes standard with adjustable OmniPoint switches, but is available in a variety of other options, such as Cherry MX Red, Brown, and Blue. These switches can be quickly adjusted on the fly via the OLED display built into the keyboard itself. The Apex Pro features aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction and an ergonomic design. It also has a removable magnetic wrist rest to prevent wrist pain during long sessions. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Mechanical Keyboard is a premium product that will last you a while and make gaming a dream come true.
Whatever games you play, you will definitely need a mechanical keyboard to get the most out of your game. For gaming keyboards, we prefer to have the best of both worlds in terms of functionality and budget and we therefore recommend the Ducky One 2 Mini or the HyperX Alloy Origins 60.
For more information on gaming accessories, check out the 5 Best Esports Keyboards of 2021 and the 9 Best Gaming Headphones of 2021 on Pro Gaming Guides.
