Whenever a new series of one of my most beloved anime launches, I inevitably get a bit obsessed and snap up any figures and merch I can get my hands on. So it feels serendipitous that I stumbled upon the IQUNIX EV63 Ghost in the Shell Edition keyboards.

The $249.99 (Amazon) boards are the result of a collaboration between gaming keyboard brand IQUNIX and publishing company Kodansha, and include two 60% layout keyboards, decked out with double-shot PBT themed keycaps (hey Major), NOVA hall-effect switches, and aluminum chassis for a look that appears as if they jumped right out of the original 1995 film.

I'm currently typing with the K3 Gen II Hatsune Miku Edition keyboard from Asus, so I'm always partial to an officially licensed bit of tech, but the Shell Core and Shell Blue go above and beyond what I'd expected to see on an anime board.

IQUINIX states that the board "blends tactical precision with cyberpunk
aesthetics" and that's definitely apparent when you gaze at the images and see the transparent keycaps for yourself. The turquoise green coloring on the Shell Core design, in particular, feels very on-brand for the franchise. Its coloring reminds me of the QUAD poster I have for the 1995 Ghost in the Shell film re-release, which I own from my days working at in independance movie theatre.

If you look close enough, you can even spot the Major herself upon some of the keys, and each version of the board incorporates her image differently, which delivers a nice bit of variation for fans. Yet, as cool as they look, I'd be really intrigued to see if this Ghost in the Shell collaboration isn't just style over substance.

Both EV63 Ghost in the Shell models include Hall-effect Nova Switches, which are designed with "reduce wabble and enhanced trigger consistency." As someone who's recently discovered the wonders of Counter-Strike 2 a bit too late, I'd be curious to see what these linear-feeling switches could do to get me on the same level as seasoned players.

The keyboards are also built with FPS games in mind and include custom onboard profiles, and are powered by the brand's latest HyperCore V3 firmware. The latter of which is aimed at prioritising speed by ensuring every keypress is fast, and that there are no keystroke accuracy issues if you swap to alternative compatible switches, an inclusion which is quite unusual given the rarity of hot-swappable HE keyboards.

I'm not as well-versed in the world of e-sports gaming to notice a discernible speed difference most of the time, but it's reassuring to learn that these new Ghost in Shell edition boards aren't relying solely on their looks.

The new Ghost in the Shell anime series launches on Amazon Prime on July 7, where I'll inevitably become yet again obsessed with the queen that is Major Motoko Kusanagi. Sadly, these boards aren't available at UK retailers, so I won't be able to add them to my setup in preparation. But I'll let all of you fellow UK-anime fans know if and when they become available across the pond.

• View all gaming keyboards at Amazon

Our team has also rounded up the best gaming chairs, the best gaming laptops, and the best gaming mice, if you want to give your PC gaming setup a boost.

I've been waiting for this gaming keyboard deal ever since I first pulled the Corsair Galleon 100 SD out the box and clocked its $349.99 MSRP. This is a seriously fun deck to have on the desk, but its price point always slightly got in the way. Yes, it's the best gaming keyboard for those after a full-size format, but at full price, you still need to sit in a niche use case to make the most of it.

You're looking at a TKL layout with a 12-button Stream Deck integrated where you'd expect a num-pad to be. That's a massive amount of customization potential, especially with the four-panelled screen and two control dials. You're essentially getting the functionality of the Stream Deck Plus (minus two dials and plus four buttons) baked into the price here. When that price is $299.99, things get a little more interesting.

This record-breaking discount comes as part of Best Buy's 4th of July sales - surprising, considering the Galleon 100 SD was still stuck at full price during last week's Prime Day offers. Still, I'll take that first discount whenever it comes - especially if it makes one of my favorite gaming keyboards easier to get hold of.

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I've had this model front and centre on my desk whenever I've not been testing a new gaming keyboard. You can even forget its obvious streaming benefits; I use those extra keys for everyday productivity, Spotify controls, and a particularly in-depth Planet Coaster 2 control suite.

Whether or not it will be right for you depends on how your setup already looks, though. If you're already sorted for a Stream Deck, there's little point in paying over the odds for an integrated model. It's nice to have it right there, but considering you can pick up one of the best Hall effect keyboards for about this price, there's more flexibility elsewhere.

Anyone on the hunt for both a keyboard and a Stream Deck, however, needs to listen up. The Galleon 100 SD scored four stars in my review, dropping the final star largely because that value doesn't quite stack up so easily. A couple of months ago, I dug a little further into the math.

The Stream Deck Neo is one of the brand's more value-packed mid-range options. At $99.99, it can easily sit next to a cheaper gaming keyboard and give you the same kind of control opportunities as the Corsair Galleon 100 SD for far less cash. With today's discount applied, you've still got $200 to spend on a mechanical TKL keyboard or a magnetic option. That's not insignificant.

Splitting the design has its own benefits; being able to position the Stream Deck exactly where I wanted was nicer than sometimes having to take my mouse hand away, and the flexibility to introduce a magnetic keyboard instead is going to benefit more competitive players.

You're still not getting the full control panel at your disposal, though, and day-to-day shortcuts are far more comfortable (and I was hitting them more reliably) when positioned along a flat interface rather than the Neo's stand.

Ultimately, today's discount tips the scales in the Galleon's favor a little, but there are still cheaper ways to achieve your command centre setup. If you're more interested in quickly and easily hitting all your macros while still upgrading your keyboard to a solid mechanical offering at the same time, though, it's well worth investigating.

• See all 4th of July sales at Best Buy

I'm also bringing you all the best wireless gaming keyboards as well as the best hot-swappable keyboards for more options as well.

This is how my life goes. I use a new keyboard every two weeks, then at the end I have to take photos of it. We're all friends here, I'll tell you that after all that constant work and play it doesn't exactly look photo fresh by the time I come to write up my final review. Dust is the enemy here, but we all know these accessories aren't exactly impervious to crumbs and other grossness - that's not what you want to see from some of the best gaming keyboards on the market.

A while back I got tired of tiny brushes, or de-capping every keyboard before I took photos of it. I picked up a $7 tub of goop, and I haven't gone back since.

There's one problem - the only reason I'd mark ColorCoral down. It doesn't last much longer than around six months.

After that, the gel becomes too soft, sticking awkwardly where it previously would have lifted straight up and becoming a nightmare on the hands. So yes, you will have to replace it eventually - especially if you're using it as often as I am. For $8, though, it's earned a permanent spot on my shelf.

Simply take that crusty old keyboard, switch it off, slap the gel on top (I like to move fast here to avoid leaving the goop to nestle too deep in between the keycaps), give it a little shuggle around, and lift everything straight out. All that nastiness sticks to the gel, leaving your deck as fresh as the day it was set up.

Just don't try it on straight switches - I did that once, it was a bad move.

• See all PC cleaning accessories at Amazon

We're rounding up plenty more of the best Prime Day gaming deals, spanning everything from Prime Day PC deals to Prime Day Nintendo Switch deals.

We all have to start somewhere, and if you're still at the 'office keyboard and cheap mouse' stage of your PC gaming journey, you'll be glad to know that it's finally time to make an upgrade.

As part of the Prime Day deals, the Asus ROG Strix Scope II X is now down to $95.99 at Amazon — this is the first time it's fallen below the $99.99 mark, and it's also more affordable than Asus' other keyboards, making it a pretty tempting buy right now. If you're ready for your first serious gaming keyboard, it's worth taking a closer look.

Every member of the Asus ROG Strix Scope II X family is reduced, as well as some other models from the brand, and you can find those discounts below.

Explaining its lower price, the Scope II X is wired, and doesn't have wireless connectivity, and it's also a little more compact, but its cables and switches are more robust than on the original model. For most gamers, it's probably the best pick of the bunch.

Should you buy the Asus ROG Strix Scope II X?

The ROG Strix Scope II series, rounded out by the standard and 96 models, all have mechanical keys. This kind of button has a tactile 'click' which feels more responsive to use for gaming, and they're incredibly durable too (no more disintegrating WASD keys).

Gamers tend to opt for them for these reasons, and so if you're beginning to buy some serious gaming accessories, it's a great place to start. A mechanical keyboard like the Strix Scope II X will last for a long time, and you won't really see a need to upgrade unless it's worn out or damaged.

The one question is cabling: if you absolutely need a wireless model, it's not going to suit your needs. Otherwise, though, you're sorted.

Plenty of other keyboards are discounted over Prime Day right now, but the biggest reductions often come on higher-priced keyboards, like 8Khz ones or those with robust, WASD-hammering designs. For most gamers, the Strix Scope II X is more than enough.

• Asus ROG Strix Scope II | $139.99 $109.99 at Amazon
• Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 | $179.99 $146.99 at Amazon
• Asus ROG Azoth | $249.99 $161.49 at Amazon

If you're looking for other items for your gaming set-up, we're monitoring all of the Prime Day gaming deals that'll help you pick up more kit. We've also rounded up all the best gaming keyboards so you can see how Asus' options stack up and find some other options worth considering.

Many mechanical keyboards bought in the last few years are hot-swappable, so - rather than buying a whole new deck this Prime Day, it's well worth seeing yours can simply take a new set of switches as an upgrade. Sure, the best gaming keyboards benefit from super-speedy clackers, but everyday typing devices deserve a little luxury as well.

After all, shelling out for a whole new typing experience can rack up quite the bill if you're just looking to swap to a different feel or actuation speed. While custom decks will run you into the hundreds, even cheaper off-the-shelf mechanical decks can still take you well over the $50 price range.

Of course, so can some switch sets. You'll find a good spread of some of my favorite linear, tactile, and clicky mechanical keyboard switches just below, spanning the premium to the budget. I've also kept my roster limited to Amazon, to make the most of early Prime Day gaming deals.

Linear mechanical keyboard switches

Tactile mechanical keyboard switches

Clicky mechanical keyboard switches

Don't have swappable clackers? Check out the best hot-swappable keyboards on the market right now. For something a little more customizable, we're also rounding up the best Hall effect keyboards available.

If you've ever been served one of those videos that goes up the price range of different gaming keyboards and compares how they sound, you'll likely relate to my first experience with the Asus ROG Azoth Extreme Edition 20. As someone who has only really dabbled with the depth of the keyboard world, I always figured that yes, there'd be a difference in the feel of the more expensive options, but surely not as much as the true keyboard nerds make out.

• Pre-order | $599.99 at Best Buy

I've been typing on a DROP LOTR Elven keyboard for the last year or two, and I love its mechanical feel and faithful design, especially as someone who hammers down pretty hard on his keys; it has an excellent weighty actuation to it. The Azoth Extreme Edition 20 sounds, feels, and actuates about 20x better than what I'm used to, so I finally understand the appeal of the most expensive sounding keyboards in those videos I see in my feed.

That much has been true of pretty much any Azoth board we've tested, but this is no regular Azoth. It's an anniversary timepiece that helps mark 20 years of the ROG brand, and with some seriously premium frills, it costs no less than $599.99. It's no keyboard for the faint of heart (or wallet). Whether you're typing or gaming, it's one of the most premium you'll find. It's certainly the best I've come across, but this keyboard range's price tag is becoming a bigger and bigger pill to swallow.

Design

The original Asus ROG Azoth has been sitting pretty atop our best gaming keyboard lists for a while now, with each iteration wowing us in different ways as their prices increase.

For this version, Asus has donned a black and gold aesthetic along with a "bladed metallic" texture. The chassis is a full aluminium alloy, and the frame is metal, giving it a noticeable weight compared to a lot of other keyboards you'll have tried. It's a fully customizable/hot-swappable 75% keyboard with RGB lighting. In the top right corner, there's a small OLED display with a switch you can use to set different colors and programmes for the color of the lights - a solid continuation from the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE.

Turning it over is where things get a bit silly. There's room for detachable magnetic feet (of differing heights) to give it more of a raised angle, which is something I never found necessary, even when pairing the board with its companion wrist rest. In the middle, though, is a 24K gold-plated, laser-engraved, polished ROG nameplate, which is as extra as it sounds. It is removable if you want to put it on display somewhere, but it certainly will contribute to the cost of this thing. Lurking underneath it is a USB dongle and a paddle switch for the adjustable gasket mount.

Speaking of, that clever switch will let you adjust the typing feel of the Azoth Extreme to be a tad firmer or softer, which may suit you if you're like me and tend to type pretty hard. What will contribute to that typing feel a lot more is the architectural choices that went into the product as a whole. For starters, the carbon fibre positioning plate has a firmer rigidity to stop vibrations on the top layer of the chassis. Then, underneath is a three-layer dampening system. First up are two PORON layers, then underneath it all is a silicone pad to absorb vibrations and minimize switch pinging and echoes.

Features

Getting to the finer details, the ROG Azoth Extreme Edition 20 features ROG NX Snow mechanical switches that are hot-swappable and come pre-lubed. They have a refined clicky and refined linear feel, depending on how you configure them, which complements the adjustment Asus has made to the inner workings of the switch.

Below the upper housing is a stem material made of composite POM material that adds a bit more smoothness to the keystroke. It has a walled stem design to protect from dust intrusion while also adding some more stability. Then, on the very bottom, you have a POM bottom housing for a deeper keystroke sound.

In terms of connections, the tri-mode connectivity from the previous Azoth boards carries over, and the Azoth Extreme 20 is equipped with a ROG Omni receiver that allows connections to multiple supported devices with a single USB dongle - perfect for if you have an Asus mouse or other peripheral that already supports it. That means fewer USB ports are used up without compromising on high-polling gear.

Speaking of which, the Azoth Extreme sports a maximum polling rate of 8,000Hz, but only if you have a ROG Polling Rate Booster. In wireless mode, the Azoth Extreme can last you a quoted 1600 hours with RGB lighting and the OLED display off, 245 hours with the OLED display on and the lighting off, or a still impressive 96 hours with both on.

You can customize the board using Gear Link, without the use of Armory Crate.

Mystery Keycap Set

Launching alongside both the mouse and keyboard is a fun twist on the ROG anniversary - a new form of collectible called the Mystery Keycap Set. These provide a fun unboxing experience for long-term fans and are excellently crafted tributes to some of the most well-known products in Asus ROG's history.

I have to admit, I'm not one for mysterious collectibles like this because so often they end up being fodder for resellers to make a fortune off of, but the attention to detail here is unreal. The Chariot keycap actually spins as one of the best gaming chairs should, the Claymore deck and Raikiri controller keycaps sport all the right textures.

Each ROG Keycap Mystery Box reveals a random collectible keycap, and the full set includes tributes to the Chariot chair, Raikiri controller, Claymore keyboard, Delta headset, and variations on the ROG 20 logo. In one box you'll find: 6 x Mystery Keycaps, and 6 x nameplates (randomly selected with no duplicates; and it may include a special edition version)

According to the press materials I've been issued, the probability of finding all of them is as follows:

• ROG Claymore: 1/6
• ROG Gladius: 1/6
• ROG Chariot: 1/6
• ROG Delta: 1/6
• ROG Raikri Pro:1/6
• ROG Logo: 7/48
• Special Edition Keycap: 1/48

One box sets you back $24.99, which isn't bad considering the hand-crafted design of the keycaps inside - although it may seem bad to those who have already splashed down $599 on the Azoth Extreme 20.

The mystery keycaps are made with a Cross-based structure (Cherry MX-based stem), which should give them wide compatibility when it comes to switches to put them on. Each keycap is made with Resin material before being hand-finished with intricate paintwork.

Performance

As I've mentioned, I'm pretty hard on my switches when it comes to typing. I don't know what happened in my younger days while I was learning to type that compelled me to hammer down as hard as I do. However, using the Azoth Extreme Edition has felt like a formative experience. Its premium switches, the way their sound is dampened with each keystroke, and the featherweight it takes to actuate them if you aren't using their firmer actuation, is unlike any other keyboard I've used. It feels like it's taking me by the hand and asking who hurt me, encouraging me to be nicer to whatever keyboard I type on next.

There are ups and downs to lots of Azoth's qualities for me, though. Its lighter actuation means it's super easy to translate your reaction time to whatever game you're playing. But there have been so many times when I've been gaming or typing when I thought I was just resting my finger on a key, only to see something happening on screen and realise I was putting too much weight on it. That's awesome for gamers who need the slightest bit of press on their keys to register, but that can also, in my case, cause mis-presses where you don't want them.

Secondly, there's no denying the build quality of this keyboard. Hell, there's 24K gold plating on it and a fully metal body - something so many other keyboards forgo because they're worried about performance. No guess as to why it weighs as much as it does!

That kind of build quality doesn't come around often in any category of gaming hardware, and it absolutely reinforces the experience of using it. With such a hefty deck underneath it, the switches all feel so stable and cushioned. Each press, no matter how hard you tap, is safe; it doesn't feel like I'm damaging anything or that I'll be wearing down the switches the more I use it like that. But with so much weight to it, it does make it feel a bit like an immovable object to keep on your desk, so if you like to shift your accessories around often, this isn't very agile. More, if you've spent a lot on a desk mat, be prepared for it to suffer marks and potentially dents under the sheer heft of this sitting on it.

Even the flashy design has its utility drawbacks. For a celebratory piece like this, there will almost certainly be form-over-function issues, but there are some basic errors I wish were stamped out. The white key symbols on the bottom sides of the keycaps aren't very legible when the RGB is shining through from underneath, and slightly blinding you thanks to transparent edges on the keycaps themselves. This would hardly be a dealbreaker, but for a 75% board where you are likely to search for the Fn functions lurking on some of the keys, it's likely an annoyance you'll run into.

Should you buy the Asus ROG Azoth Extreme Edition 20?

In years of testing all sorts of gaming tech, there have been few with the kind of premium build quality and luxurious feel of the ROG Azoth Extreme Edition.

The Azoth Extreme has been made to mark 20 years of ROG accessories, and its latest flagship keyboard, as well as its mystery keycap set, is easy to recognise as a labor of love. Its lightweight actuation has a calming effect on a hard typer like me, will offer speed to competitive gamers, and a design that will make anyone (gamer or not) see why the maker has lasted this long.

Like with any gaming peripheral of this cost, I'd remind you that you don't need to spend this much to get something good, or even usable. Even with all its 24K gold-plated flourishes, it's going to be very difficult to justify a keyboard this expensive, and there's no way around that. That said, for the Extreme users who want a showpiece, it doesn't come much better than this.

• Pre-order | $599.99 at Best Buy

How I tested the Asus ROG Azoth Extreme 20

This keyboard sat on my desk for around two weeks before I wrote up my thoughts in this review. I used it for typing, video editing, and gaming every day in that time to put it through its paces. I compared it to other keyboards I've used, and I read up on previous Azoth offerings to get a feel for what this line represents.

For more on how we test keyboards, take a look at our hardware policy.

For more on peripherals, check out the best PC controllers, the best gaming mouse, and the best hot-swappable keyboard.

I'll get it out the way first, the Logitech G512 X is one of my favorite gaming keyboards of the magnetic age. It doesn't offer the smoothest typing feel or break out a ludicrous number of actions per key. It doesn't use a wireless connection or a whole new form factor. In fact, the Logitech G512 X impresses me so much because it falls into none of those pitfalls, instead making smart investments with its features in order to undercut some of the more premium options on the market.

That's where some of the best gaming keyboards find their footing so, while you won't find a PCB stacked to the brim with high quality magnetic switches here, there's plenty nudging the G512 X into that top list. Another thing to get out the way before we start. Straight out of the box, this is a mechanical keyboard through and through. It's only when you take a look at the nine Gateron magnetic switches hidden along the top lip that the full customization options are unfurled.

This is a hybrid magnetic / mechanical deck, with 39 slots for those magnetic clackers to sit in and the ability to chop and change between analog and mech whenever you need to. In essence, it doesn't charge you for the premium magnetic switches you're unlikely to use on the right-hand side of the board.

What I love

Smart magnetic implementation makes for an easier price tag

The Logitech G512 X starts at $179.99 / £169.99 for the 75% version, but it's probably more useful to look at the 98% model. That's because this not-quite-full-sized design is where a lot of the more premium Hall effect keyboards are finding themselves these days, with the best two I've tested being the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 and Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE.

Both of these are more expensive than the Logitech G512 X (at full price, anyway - more on that later), with Corsair's option coming in at $229.99 / £209.99 and the Azoth sitting at a whopping $359.99 / £349.99. They both also feature magnetic Hall effect switches throughout the entire deck.

That means you're paying for analog customization where you might not need it. Logitech restricts its nine supplied Gateron switches to the left hand of the board, where you're more likely to be clustering your action keys around WASD. This is where most players actually utilize adjustable actuation points and rapid trigger - featuring the same switches across the rest of the deck can feel like a waste.

That's where Logitech plays its smartest card. While dropping down the number of usable magnetic switches may be a disservice to the ultra-competitive among us, the majority of more casual players are better served here.

It also achieves full hot-swappability between magnetic and mechanical clackers for far less cash than the only other keyboard I've tested with this tough-to-find feature; the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR at $249.99 / £209.99. Straight out the box, you'll find either Logitech's linear or tactile mechanical switches installed.

It's not just that Logitech has cut back on its magnetic keys so save us a few bucks. It's that this analog functionality has been implemented in a way that keeps things sensible while still allowing for the full customization experience. Each Gateron switch is capable of actuating at between 0.1mm and 4mm (the full range we typically see), with dual-step actuation points up for grabs.

You can look at the four-point actuations found in premium options like the Azoth or Glorious GMMK 3 Pro HE, but few players will actually take advantage of such a feature.

Plus, the added Second Actuation Pressure Point rings (included alongside your extra switches along the top of the deck) make this magnetic feature even better with their smart tactile bump. Applying these o-rings to a Gateron switch's face provides tangible feedback for your first actuation point. I'm just guessing and relying on muscle memory in other decks.

Rich typing feel

You can find cheaper magnetic keyboards, in the NZXT Function Elite Mini TKL that launched at $199.99 but is regularly found in double-figures these days, for example. These decks always carry a slightly woolly quality to their cheaper magnetic switches, though, upping resistance in the typing feel and adding extra fatigue.

While the G512 X's mechanical clackers are a little heavier in their actuation force than I would typically choose day to day, their mechanical design keeps this lower-budget magnetic stiffness at bay. If the supplied Gaterons then went and stomped all over that smoother typing feel, we'd have a problem - but Logitech went with TMR technology for its alternate clackers. That means we've got a much easier actuation even across those other switches.

Typing with both flavors installed isn't as disconcerting as I thought it might have been as well. There's a little giveaway that some of these things are not like the others, but it never translates into an uncomfortable experience, nor a less precise one. They smooth into each other nicely, and I never felt the need to adjust tension when hitting a magnetic clacker straight after a mechanical one.

All that's supported by a gasket mounted design that makes for a softer full press and keeps each clack suitably deep in sound and texture. I never heard a single rattle, ping, or echo in my entire testing time.

Functional cyberpunk design

Some could look at the glowing plastic grate at the front of the Logitech G512 X and call it garish. Others could see a cheaper-feeling piece of plastic holding switches and o-rings in place and think it naff. I might have been one of those people in another life, but the jazzy design has won me over.

We've got enough all-black monochrome keyboards relying on per-key RGB lighting, the aqua-cyan of the white G512 X I've been testing looks great on the desk and keeps things interesting in aesthetic. There's a serious impact to that glowing front edge - if Logitech decided to include the accompanying translucent wrist rest in the box, this would have been a 10/10 for style.

What to consider

Casing quality doesn't quite match competitors

Logi nailed the look of the G512 X in my opinion, but it's not quite following it through with a durable build. I've noticed in the last week or so of my testing, the casing itself doesn't hold up to as much pressure as you'll find elsewhere across the market. There's some notable flex in the lower bezel that even yields some creaks when really pushed to its limits. That's under direct force that wouldn't be applied under normal circumstances, but the Asus and Corsair decks mentioned earlier don't behave quite the same.

Logitech is using a thinner plastic for its top plate, and when that material overhangs the light bar running underneath the front edge it's significantly weakened. The same flexing and creaking can't be felt towards the top of the keyboard, but does betray itself in the thinner lines of casing between the main alphas and the num pad.

Full magnetic decks can meet this price point

It's not necessarily a con, partly because I'm celebrating the fact that Logitech is using magnetic clackers efficiently. However, it should be noted that you're not getting a full set of adjustable switches here - just in case you really do need all those customizations. Still, even that would be a non-starter if the G512 X was priced just a little lower. As it stands today, with sales taken into the equation, you can find full sweeps of Hall effect switches for about the same rate as this - and often less.

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96, for example, launched at $229.99 / £209.99 but it's since tumbled to sit at between $160 and $190 day to day now. Whether you use all of those magnetic clackers or not, it's still the better deal.

Should you buy the Logitech G512 X?

If you're looking to dip your toe into the world of Hall effect keyboards, have a decent wad of cash to invest in the adventure, but want the flexibility to back out and return to your mechanical switches instead, there's no better gaming keyboard on the market right now.

That hot-swappability (and cheaper price than Cherry) is a real feather in this board's cap and makes for a seriously compelling reason to go team Logi for your next deck. Being able to swap and change between not just different mechanical feels, but switch types altogether is a real benefit considering the high prices of fully analog keyboards. Even if you decide you hate adjustable clackers, the G512 X will still serve you just fine.

If you're already on board with the magnetic revolution, there may be better value elsewhere. The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 hasn't lost its throne to Logitech here. It's more efficient not to slot magnetic switches into slots where they won't be used, but it's also undeniable that the Vanguard provides more customization options for less cash (when it's on sale). Throw in that sturdier form factor and those looking for an all-out magnetic transformation will find better features elsewhere.

How I tested the Logitech G512 X

I've had the Logitech G512 X on my desk for just over two weeks now, and it's been running the whole show in that time. This has been my only keyboard for both work and play, save for a few direct comparison sessions with the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE and Corsair Vanguard Pro 96. In that time I tested specifically on Apex Legends and CS2, but also let it run on High on Life 2, Mixtape, and Planet Coaster 2 sessions.

For more information on how we test gaming keyboards, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

For more options, check out our guides to the best hot-swappable keyboards and the best wireless gaming keyboards available.

The Corsair Galleon 100 SD has become a daily driver for me outside of testing the latest gaming keyboards. It's the keyboard I reach for as soon as I find a few days in between reviews, packing all my launchers, in-game keybindings, Spotify controls, and productivity shortcuts in one place on the desk. I received mine direct from the brand, though, and that $349.99 MSRP is a weight hanging heavy every time I find myself close to recommending it.

Things aren't helped by the fact that I haven't seen a single discount on this deck since it launched in January (trust me, I've been waiting for it - this thing has been rock solid at both Amazon and Corsair). That means you're paying one of the highest prices of any gaming keyboard I've tested so far.

It's why I generally only recommend it to players who already need a chunkier Stream Deck anyway. The $199.99 MSRP of the Stream Deck Plus (the closest you'll find to the number of buttons and controls available on the Galleon) means it takes up a good chunk of that MSRP and makes far more sense from a purchase standpoint.

There's a cheaper way, though. I've had the Elgato Stream Deck Neo on the desk for a few weeks now, testing it alongside some of the best gaming keyboards to see how the experience differs from the full $350 all-in-one. Considering the Neo comes in at just $99.99, I was curious to see how much of a luxury tax we're paying for Corsair's deck.

I tested the Neo with three keyboards in mind; the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96, to see whether adding magnetic switches into the mix will bring enough of a benefit to leave the mechanical Galleon behind, the Keychron V6 Max for those who can't drop their number pad, and the Asus ROG Azoth - still my go-to for overall typing feel.

The contenders

The good

There are a couple of benefits to sacking off the Galleon entirely.

Returning to one of the best Hall effect keyboards meant I was able to pair my Stream Deck Neo with a set of customizable switches for a streamlined in-game experience across certain commands. I primarily keep my custom actuation points to WASD when using a magnetic deck, while dampening surrounding buttons to avoid accidental presses and setting main action keys to rapid trigger.

It's a playstyle I've come to appreciate in faster titles like CS2 and Apex Legends, but one I can easily go without for more strategic experience or relaxing simulation endeavours. Being able to keep that flexibility was a massive benefit to dropping the Galleon from my setup.

The only other benefit I noticed over the Galleon (as opposed to the like-for-like features I'll detail below), was in positioning. The full keyboard puts the Stream Deck portion on the right hand side, which makes sense if you're viewing it as a number pad replacement. However, moving my 'keyboard' hand over to the other side of the deck doesn't always feel natural - and it's even more ungodly to take my hand off the mouse. The Stream Deck Neo, however, can be placed wherever you want it, keeping that right paw on the rodent and moving your left hand slightly less to hit each button.

Then we have everything that's just about equal between the two experiences.

Even pivoting to cheaper mechanical options, the Stream Deck Neo provides enough buttons for fairly comprehensive stream controls and daily productivity tools. It keeps the Galleon's ease of use as a daily launcher, and the decks I tested with kept media controls within reach as well.

Using the Stream Deck Neo with the Asus ROG Azoth meant I was able to keep some screen functions, though these were pretty limited compared to the full Stream Deck experience.

The Keychron V6 Max will likely offer up the keenest comparison for many, by virtue of keeping a dedicated number pad alongside the additional controls of the Neo.

The bad

To try and replicate my in-game macro use as closely as possible, I positioned the Stream Deck Neo to the left of my keyboard, closer to my main control hand than it would be on the Galleon. Try as I might, though, I could never get used to the taller angle of the mini device. In-game controls feel far less natural to hit, and I can never quite prove myself reliable enough to slap that pad without looking. It slowed things down by a noticeable amount even after about a week of practice.

It's annoying that the Galleon's Stream Deck is fixed to the right side, but it feels easier to hit at a flat angle inline with the rest of the keyboard. It's not going to become a competitive staple, it's still too awkward for that, but inventory management, simulation and strategy controls, and menu streamlining are all far more enjoyable on the Galleon.

Keyboard displays are a big source of contention right now, with many brands (most notably Corsair itself, outside of this Stream Deck integration) content to simply use these panels as expensive, low res digital photo frames. While the Asus ROG Azoth has a little more meat on its display bones, it still can't compare with the full-color, personalizable panel on the Galleon. Plugins are still slow coming, but there's plenty to show off here and it makes for an easier control system than the Neo's simple strip of display overall.

There's also the number of buttons available to you. The Stream Deck Neo offers up eight clackers to the Galleon's 12. I'll admit, I sometimes struggle to fill all 12 when I'm creating dedicated folders for specific apps, games, and use-cases. But at the same time I was often limited by the Neo's 8. I'd rather have too much space on my deck to ensure each page can function as a full set of distinct options, rather than having to add extra button presses and defeat the purpose of a handy helper.

There's just one minor snag that came up pretty quickly as well. We're really picking here, but adding a Stream Deck and a keyboard means you're using up an extra port. I run a gaming laptop setup, and the Neo's USB-C connection is pretty valuable in an accessory-laden desk.

The ugly

Of course, everything the Corsair Galleon 100 SD has going for it has to work pretty hard when we come to the ugly truth of the matter. The all-in-one solution is incredibly expensive, and alternatives can save you nearly $200 if you play your cards right.

Is the Corsair Galleon 100 SD going to be worth the extra spend? Maybe not.

I'm Corsair's best-case-scenario user. I don't typically stream, but I love having a command center at my fingertips, spend far too much time in menu-heavy simulation and strategy games, don't rely on a number pad, am constantly in and out of different apps and windows, and have a bunch of productivity shortcuts and keybindings to remember. I need more than eight buttons, I use those buttons frequently enough to find reaching over to a separate device awkward, and I'm happy to invest time setting up more complex folder systems to keep everything I need close to hand.

If that's you as well, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD is going to be worth the extra spend compared to a keyboard + Stream Deck Neo combo. Streamers, competitive players, and num-pad enthusiasts aren't going to find the same kind of value here.

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 is the strongest alternative. The magnetic keyboard is geared more towards competitive players while still packing its num-pad and slick typing experience. At full MSRP, a Vanguard Pro and Stream Deck Neo will run you $329.99. I usually see both of these devices on sale for $160-$190 / $75-$90 respectively, though. That means, on the right day, you could pick up both for anything between $235 and $280, saving you $70-$115 overall. In this case, the Galleon isn't worth the extra cash.

If you're not fussed about magnetic switches, the Asus ROG Azoth is going to be your next port of call. This is still the best typing experience I've had from a gaming keyboard, so you're investing more in the feel of your everyday keystrokes while saving some cash dropping some of those Stream Deck features. The Azoth holds a $249.99 MSRP, but it's old - it hasn't been up that high reliably in quite some time. These days you're more likely to find it between $190 and $220, putting the package - at its cheapest - at $265.

Without those magnetic switches in play, would I say the extra $85 for the Galleon is money well spent? If you want a full productivity suite, need more from your display, and play macro-heavy games regularly, yes. If you just want a streaming companion or app launcher, no.

In scenarios where I prefer to use a num-pad, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD supplies its own profiles. However, using the dedicated keys of the Keychron V6 Max and Corsair Vanguard feels so much better than these plastic clackers. Having to hit another button just to bring up my number options is an annoyance of the all-in-one. Those using a number pad every day will soon get too tired for it to be worthwhile. With the Keychron V6 Max coming in at $119.99 on a bad day, $96 on a good day, you're saving a maximum of $179 by opting for the split setup. If you need that number pad, the Galleon's other benefits aren't worth the additional spend.

Featured keyboards

I'm also rounding up all the best hot-swappable keyboards and the best wireless gaming keyboards I've tested so far for more options.

I never thought Logitech would be behind one of my favorite gaming keyboards of the year. I'll be the first to admit I've previously found these decks a little lacklustre. While Asus, Razer, and Corsair often have something unique to shout about, Logi's keyboards have generally felt a little too safe for me to truly get excited about.

The Logitech G512 X launched yesterday, and having spent some time with the mechanical (but also TMR magnetic - more on that in a bit) deck it has to be one of the most interesting I've had on the desk so far.

Straight out of the box this is a mechanical keyboard, and a particularly satisfying one at that. Keypresses are a little heavier than I'm used to with traditional red linears, but there's a secret hidden inside a little window at the top of the chassis.

Here you'll find nine Gateron KS-20 magnetic switches, neatly waiting in a little row. They're fully hot-swappable with the mechanical clackers already installed on the G512 X straight out of the box, and even come with a set of O-rings within easy reach as well. Slap these switches on your most used keys, and you've got a combination of tactile mechanical clackers and more adjustable magnetic gameplay zones.

Logitech is calling the G512 X the 'first' keyboard with compatibility across mechanical and magnetic switches. It's not. That trophy sits in Cherry's case, with the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR offering up the first example of a truly hot-swappable magnetic keyboard that I've seen so far. Logi's latest release is no less impressive, though, and makes the smart move to prioritize cheaper mechanical clackers rather than far more expensive magnetic tappers straight out the box. Not only that, but those TMR sensors (a newer Hall effect lookalike that's growing in popularity this year) are only taking up half the deck.

That, combined with a more budget-friendly wired connection, means the G512 X sits at a $179.99 launch price - far less than Cherry's $249.99.

I've had the larger 96% model on deck, with full access to a slightly shifted number pad and a couple of media controls up in the right corner. The 75% keeps both of these rotary knobs, dropping those number keys for a vertical set of nav buttons instead.

This is no stock black gaming keyboard either. While Logitech's more 'Pro' styled decks tend to look a little boring on the desk top, the G512 X has plenty more energy to it. The white and aqua colorway I received is accented by a wide RGB light strip running under translucent plastic around the front. If you pick up the extra palm wrest, this lighting also produces a glowing effect as well.

Under-key lighting is sturdy, though with only one LED under larger keys, things can get a little uneven around longer (or dual) legends.

All of that would be nothing without a solid feel, though, and this is where those TMR sensors come into their own. Rather than feeling woolly and heavy, like earlier iterations of the best Hall effect gaming keyboards, these clackers feel incredibly smooth. They're lighter than the browns under the rest of the keys, but also manage to blend seamlessly into the typing experience. Once installed on the deck, each key's RGB color changes to let you know where your special clackers are as well - it's the little things.

I've only spent a little time with the Logitech G512 X so far but, ahead of my full review, this deck has already impressed me. There's evidence of an excellent attention to detail here, from the five-pin storage sockets keeping your swapped-out mechanical switches safe to the nicely textured caps up top.

$179.99 is still relatively pricey for a gaming keyboard, but Logitech has been far smarter with this magnetic release than its competitors. The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 is my top rated gaming keyboard of the moment, even with its $229.99 MSRP. The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE is the best magnetic option I've tested, but comes in at an eye-watering $359.99.

Logitech may lose some friends by limiting its magnetic compatibility to the left hand side of the board, and marketing it as a TMR keyboard with only nine included switches. I've been using these premium decks for some time now, though, and while it might be nice to be able to configure every key as you see fit - it's often just not necessary.

This is a lean implementation of a high-end keyboard technology that respects your wallet far more than its competitors. Right now, any brand that finds unique ways to offer greater flexibility around features and pricing is in my good graces.

• See all gaming keyboard deals at Amazon

I'm also rounding up more of the best hot-swappable keyboards, or take a look at the best wireless gaming keyboards and best membrane keyboards for more options.

If you're on the hunt for a cheap and cheerful gaming keyboard that will see you through the next few years of play without a hefty up front price tag, you might as well stop reading right now.

If you're looking to invest in a high-end magnetic deck that offers a better typing experience than any I've tested so far, while still packing premium features like wireless play, an actually usable OLED display, and super slick customization features, there's something I need you to see.

I finished testing the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE earlier this year, and it's stuck around in my setup. Those super smooth switches, the clean and easy 2.4GHz connection, even the comfortable 96% key spacing (not to be taken for granted) make it not just the best Hall effect keyboard I've tested, but one of the best gaming keyboards on the market right now.

There's just one problem, this thing will run you a whopping $359.99 at MSRP. I'd avoid that. Instead, Amazon has just dropped the magnetic clacker back down to its lowest price yet, hitting $295.99 for only the second time in its life. You're still paying a premium, but with just over $60 off it's a little easier to grab my endgame keeb.

Let me get one thing straight. This is a gaming keyboard for those who already know they're going all in on magnetic switches. Even at $300, it's in a different pricing league to 99% of the rest of the market - the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96, my top gaming keyboard overall, makes some smart sacrifices to keep its MSRP at $230 (and it's even currently on sale for $189.99 at Amazon).

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All of that to say, this is the Hall effect keyboard for those who don't want to make sacrifices. The wireless connection (both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth) isn't necessary by any stretch of the imagination, but it is rare to find and the battery holds up better than the Ducky One X.

You'll find a neat little OLED display window on a lot of gaming keyboards, but the ROG Azoth 96 HE's incorporates far more control features, from music playback to onboard switch actuation customization. Corsair's is essentially a digital photo frame.

And the typing experience. If you've used a cheaper HE deck, you'll know the woolly, stuffy feeling that's plagued these boards since they first went mainstream a couple of years ago. Paying $100 to $200 for a magnetic deck from this time last year will see you fighting through high-tension keys and battling fatigue in the meantime. Asus's ROG HFX V2 switches (the same ones used on the even more expensive Asus ROG Falcata) are silky by comparison, feeling almost mechanical in their snap.

The only thing holding the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE back is its price point. It's just too expensive for the majority of the market, but if you're interested in the Lambo of magnetic decks, this is a must-see discount.

• See all gaming keyboard deals at Amazon

I'm also hunting down all the best wireless gaming keyboards and the best hot-swappable keyboards for more options.

Keychron has updated its GitHub repository to include firmware source code, 3D model files, and even keycap and control knob designs for its K, L, P, Q, and V series decks in the last few days. With new files being added as recently as one hour ago, we've essentially got everything we need to customize and 3D print some of the best gaming keyboards the brand has to offer.

I say essentially, because the actual switches and PCB will still need to be purchased. While the former can be grabbed from a wider range of brands, any of Keychron's HE models will also need their own magnetic switches.

Of course, the readme is explicit in its statement that "copying and selling Keychron keyboards or mice, or trading on Keychron trademarks, is not allowed," but other than that this is all pretty free rein. The full hub contains everything you need to get started as well as helpful guides and beginner-friendly assistance.

With a little know-how and a 3D printer at your side, it's possible to modify and create your very own custom Keychron deck. Why is the brand being so free with its documentation?

It wants to expand its community while also providing educational materials for hobbyists and students. Whether you want to learn how all those components fit together so critically or you're just keen to take your custom designs to the next level, there's plenty to dig into here.

It's going to take some work to build an entire Keychron keyboard from scratch using these files, but modifying or creating entirely new accessories for your deck is a far simpler starting position. The brand is even allowing creators to sell their new kit, just as long as it's not a full keyboard.

• See all Keychron keyboards at Amazon

I'm also hunting down all the best Hall effect keyboards and the best hot-swappable keyboards for more customization options, or take a look at the best wireless gaming keyboards for cable-free devices.

I've been saying it for years, Asus knows how to sound dampen a keyboard - probably more so than any other mainstream gaming brand putting out "enthusiast-grade" devices. The Asus ROG Strix Morph 96 Wireless is no exception.

This cheaper entry (coming in at $139.99 / £134.99) is a sight for a set of sore eyes that have spent a little too long poring over $250+ decks to find the best gaming keyboards. You're still getting the wireless connection, solid battery life, and functional 96% layout of more premium options, though. The dampening, foaming, and gasket mounting make for one of the most tactile-feeling linear experiences I've had so far, energetic, bouncy, but with a nice sense of texture to every press.

Where it steps slightly outside of the mainstream is its modding potential. The Strix Morph features a fully removable top plate held in position by five screws. Removing this allows for in-depth personalization underneath the PCB, as well as on top of it with hot-swappable switches.

Wireless mechanical keyboards aren't as expensive as they used to be, and you'll find plenty of two-figure options out there from budget brands. If you're going for a slightly more refined typing feel, though, the Asus ROG Morph 96 is a solid option - especially if you want to crack open that case.

What I love

A bouncier linear experience

There's something about these Asus ROG NX switches, in a chassis this well mounted they simply spring off the board. I've been testing a set of ROG NX Snow V2 clickers, but the Morph is also available with the brand's Storm V2 switches as well.

Asus itself classes Snow as thocky, and if that's the case I'd be interested to see how 'clacky' the Storms really are.

This isn't a simple linear experience like the majority of the market, but rather one that has a little more texture to it. The best way I can describe it is somewhere between a very light brown and a heavy red, with something of the sound of a well-dampened blue. That's to say smooth and streamlined, but with more of a clack sound than a thock.

The clackers themselves use a walled stem design to keep dust out before each switch gets a good factory lubing to keep things smooth and steady. With a 1.8mm actuation point and 40gf initial force, they're pretty light under the hand, but I rarely mis-pressed adjacent keys.

Straight out the box I was surprised to find ABS toppers on here. Aside from the slightly below average price for a wireless Asus gaming keyboard, there's nothing else in here to suggest this is a budget offering. While some will take umbrage in the lower quality cap build, though, I take some solace in the fact that they're particularly well textured and feel sturdy under the fingertips.

Far more room for customization

Very few mainstream decks will let you break into the main chassis without clocking your warranty. Even the best hot-swappable keyboards from gaming brands like Razer, Corsair, and SteelSeries make their cases almost impossible to break into, but the Asus ROG Strix Morph 96 Wireless can be fully disassembled from the top down.

It's a shame a screwdriver isn't included in the box. If you're used to tearing down tech you'll likely have a torx driver to hand, but without one you'll be stripped these screws in an instant. Still, as a companion to the hot-swappable design and south-facing LEDs, it's a nice touch that opens the door to even heavier dampening mods.

Compact but functional design

The 96% form factor is picking up across the industry, after spending a few too many years in the shadows. It's by no means new, but with the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 and Asus ROG Azoth HE 96 both opting for the compact layout in the last few months it feels like a resurgence is heading our way.

Unlike the former, there's a good amount of spacing between the main keys and the 'num-pad zone,' which keeps things nice and accurate in every day usage. I did find myself accidentally hitting the slightly squished arrow buttons, but it's easy enough to get used to.

With no need to drop your num-pad for extra mouse room the Asus ROG Strix Morph 96 Wireless keeps all your main controls front and center, with a row of nav keys maintained above the main numerical pad as well. All that sits in a chassis only slightly longer than a larger 75% keyboard.

Dropping the OLED display of devices like the Azoth means you've got more space for keys (though Asus does do a lot more with these panels than its competitors), while dedicated media controls are housed on the left hand side of the deck. A volume dial and multi-function button sit on the edge of the left lip, with their own RGB flair, in a similar to design to that of the Asus ROG Falcata. It's functional without taking up too much space, and that's exactly the balance I like to see.

What to consider

No magnetic functionality

You'd be hard pressed to find one of the best Hall effect keyboards at under $140 these days, so I'm not knocking the Asus ROG Strix Morph 96 Wireless too hard for sticking to mechanical clackers. However, models like the Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid will net you the extra features of a magnetic board at only a little further up the price scale. That particular model comes in $50 more expensive at MSRP, but is often on sale at Amazon for between $140 and $160.

What specifically are you sacrificing? Adjustable switch actuations can come in pretty handy for fast-paced FPS and other competitive genres. Setting certain keys to a feather-sensitivity while making sure the keys around them are at their dullest settings improves speed while reducing accidental presses. On top of that, you're getting rapid trigger (to make repeat presses register faster) and multiple actuations per key (a more advanced feature that can trigger different inputs based on how far down a keypress you are).

You'd be looking at the cheaper end of the Hall effect scale to pick up a keyboard close to this MSRP, though, and typing experience can take a hit when the numbers are this low. I find magnetic decks have a propensity to feel a little woolly under the hands with too much tension in their actuation compared to mechanical clickers. If you're typing for longer periods of time, I'd steer clear of sub-$200 models.

Budget brands can go cheaper

The Asus ROG Strix Morph 96 Wireless manages to hold its position against slightly more expensive Hall effect decks based on its typing feel, but it's still got to justify itself against the low end of the market.

As I found in my Newmen GM326 review, budget mechanical keyboards have come a long way in a few short years. While super cheap options won't net you the same kind of sound dampening and gasket mounting prestige as this Asus model, you'll still find largely the same features, feel, and overall functionality for far less.

Brands like Redragon, RK Royal Kludge, and Womier specialize in producing low-budget decks that still look and feel great - and they're often half the price of Asus's entry. Only some of these options (and largely the more expensive ones coming in only slightly below $139.99) offer the same 2.4GHz / Bluetooth wireless connections, though, and few use a CNC milled aluminum main chassis.

If you just want to get the job done and don't mind dropping some fancy high-speed connection features, a sturdier build quality, and (generally speaking) dedicated media controls, you can still get a solid deck for between $50 and $80. Of course, buying from these smaller 'Amazon' brands doesn't net you the same kind of warranty guarantee.

Azoth still wins on battery life

It's a small point, but it bears reminding as I've been testing the Morph directly against the Asus ROG Azoth over the past couple of weeks. This is certainly a sturdy battery, running for up to 100 hours with RGB on and 590 hours in its most power-economical state.

It can't hold a candle to the 100+ hours I regularly manage to squeeze out of the Azoth with both the RGB and OLED screen on. Whether or not the old girl can still hit that 2,000 hour max charge three years later, I'm still surprised by just how much juice is in this keyboard whenever I get it back on the desk. Considering the Azoth is the best wireless gaming keyboard (thanks in no small part to this endurance), it's pertinent to mention.

Should you buy the Asus ROG Strix Morph 96 Wireless?

Compared to the rest of the mainstream gaming market, the Asus ROG Strix Morph 96 has a remarkably fair proposition. Its $139.99 price tag isn't outrageous by any means, coming in much cheaper than I would have expected a wireless mechanical keyboard to have done just a year or so ago. Hell, even the 2023 Asus ROG Azoth is still regularly going for $199.99 these days.

In a time when the shelves seem to be filling with $200+ Hall effect powerhouses, it's nice to see a deck that focuses on high-end customization, typing feel, and build quality. I'd be comfortable recommending the Morph to anyone for whom personalization and a wireless connection are must-haves, especially if you don't like to leave your media controls out of the equation.

In fact, the only reason it doesn't quite topple the Azoth in the wireless category is its battery life. Without that superior charge, the similar typing feel, excellent design, and connection versatility (not to mention the much lower price point) would have seriously threatened pole position. At $139.99, the Asus ROG Strix Morph is certainly up there, it just depends on how much you hate plugging in.

How I tested the Asus ROG Strix Morph 96 Wireless

I ran the Asus ROG Strix Morph 96 Wireless as my main keyboard for a period of two weeks before completing this review, comparing it directly against the Asus ROG Azoth, Corsair Vanguard Pro 96, and Newmen GM326 in that time. More dedicated testing time was spent in Apex Legends and CS:2, with additional play in Planet Coaster and Doom: The Dark Ages. For more information on how we test gaming keyboards, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

I'm also rounding up all the best membrane keyboards for something a little cheaper, or check out the best gaming mouse models and best gaming headsets for more setup ideas.

I took a punt on the Newmen GM326 gaming keyboard when I ordered one off Amazon last year. Having spent years testing the latest and greatest decks, I wanted to see how the budget category was faring, outside of your usual Razer and Corsair entry level models. Newmen took me completely by surprise.

This is a $30 gaming keyboard (and that's on a bad day - right now it's down to $23.99 in Amazon's Big Spring Sale), but it's offering a typing experience I would have paid over $100 for just a couple of years ago, with hot-swappable switches, a sturdy build, and dedicated media controls no less.

Considering the last keyboard I reviewed cost $359.99, there's a lot of room for the Newmen GM326 to shine. It's one of the best gaming keyboards I've tested so far for good reason.

The 75% layout keeps primarily controls to hand while still providing a good amount of navigation, but it's the density of this typing feel that surprised me.

Just a couple of years ago a mechanical keyboard at this price would have been rattly, with echoes pinging across the empty case any time I so much as looked at a key. Here, though, each stroke feels well-cushioned and any pings are incredibly difficult to hear. I've caught a few now that I've been running the GM326 for a few more months, but at first listen this could be a far more premium model.

The caps are ABS, and feel a little thinner than the PBT options you'll find elsewhere on the market. They're nicely textured, though, and still feel solid under the hands.

Even those stock 'Red' switches are impressive. Don't go in expecting the creamy thock of a set of clackers that cost more than this keyboard ten times over, but the existing linears avoid the scratchiness I'd expect at this price point, with a nice bounce to them.

Ultimately, if you're looking at this sub-$50 price point you're more likely going to be fending off offers from membrane gaming keyboards. These have typically ruled the roost when it comes to prioritizing a low price and dedicated gaming features over typing feel. The Newmen GM326 makes it nigh-on impossible to recommend a membrane deck in 2026.

• See all gaming keyboard deals at Amazon

I'm reviewing plenty more of the best hot-swappable keyboards on the market, or check out the best wireless gaming keyboards available now.

I know, I know, a handheld should be hand... held. But hear me out here.

I've been using the Razer Joro with my portable setup for just under a year now and if you use your Steam Deck in the same way as me it's an easy recommendation. I love crunching over a handheld system, but one of the biggest benefits of my Asus ROG Ally is its ability to plug in wherever I find myself. With one of the best Steam Deck docks in-hand, I'm playing on the big and small screen - Switch style.

That's where the Razer Joro comes in. It's a super slimline, lightweight Bluetooth keyboard that keeps a fantastic connection with handheld systems. It takes up practically no space in a backpack, feels great under the fingertips, and allows me to play Planet Coaster without smashing my head against the wall. It's also just dropped below $100 in Amazon's Spring Sale.

The Razer Joro isn't going to suit anyone looking for a heavy-duty writing keyboard. Its low profile keys feel fantastic for gaming, but I found fatigue can set in during longer sessions in my review. Still, as a Bluetooth Steam Deck companion there's nothing else quite like it.

The 65% layout keeps things compact while Razer's scissor switches make sure key action is springy and energetic. That's a far cry from the portable keyboards I used to hook up to my iPad, there's absolutely no sponge to this experience.

That lack of 2.4GHz connection isn't going to put any of the best gaming keyboards out of their positions on your main PC setup, but with a long-lasting battery and easy Bluetooth switching the Joro is a unique proposition for handheld power-users.

Mine normally lives in a backpack, pulled out with an HDMI cable and dock whenever I'm on the road with my Asus ROG Ally. I'm not a competitive player, but being able to tick through strategy and simulation games with a keyboard to hand whenever I need it is a massive benefit. Paired up with a cheap and cheerful mouse, like the Logitech G305 Lightspeed (now $29.99 at Amazon), it's a full setup on wheels.

• See all gaming keyboard deals at Amazon
• View the full Big Spring Sale at Amazon

We're also hunting down all the best Steam Deck accessories, but for more typing options check out the rest of the best wireless gaming keyboards and best hot-swappable keyboards I've tested.

The best Hall effect keyboard on the market right now is the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE. It's the best on paper and performed the best from my testing, but its wireless connection, sturdy battery life, versatile display, and top-of-the-pack typing feel comes at a price. This is a premium luxury, but it's so, so much more expensive than my second favorite.

That's why the Hall effect keyboard I'd recommend to most people is the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96. This is still a relatively expensive model, but so are pretty much all magnetic decks, but it's the best gaming keyboard I've tested so far overall, and offers 90% of the Azoth's charm at a good chunk of change less.

Of course, Corsair and Asus haven't cornered the magnetic market. In fact, I've been hands on with all the latest and greatest Hall effect keyboards from major gaming brands like Razer, Logitech, SteelSeries, Glorious, and more. Of all these, I've narrowed the top roster down to six options and you'll find them all just below.

The quick list

The best Hall effect keyboard overall

The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE is the best Hall effect gaming keyboard I've tested so far, but it's had to fend off some stiff competition from Corsair to get here. In many scenarios I'd actually recommend the Vanguard Pro over the Azoth, but if you're going for the gold standard of magnetic decks there's no denying Asus has it in the bag.

I'll get the TL;DR out of the way. The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE offers the best typing experience I've had from a magnetic deck, while also piling on premium features you don't see elsewhere. That wireless connection is a rarity with these more power-hungry switches and the sturdy battery life saw me through a week of play at a time (far greater than the Ducky One X and comparable to the Cherry MX 8.2 Pro TMR Wireless). It's the sound-dampened, crisp PBT, super smooth experience I first fell in love with on the original Asus ROG Azoth - just with super-fast, versatile Hall effect switches.

It's an investment, though. The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE has a price problem, coming in well below the $430 Asus ROG Falcata but still more than $100 higher than the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 below. At $349.99 you need to really know you prioritize a best-in-class typing experience and wireless experience for this deck to make sense.

It beats Corsair in a key few areas, though. The 96% form factor is far less condensed than the keys on the Vanguard. There's real breathing room here, which in turn increases accuracy and reliability - I know where I am on the deck at all times, and that's just not the case for the Vanguard. That extra sliver between the arrow keys and number pad makes all the difference.

Then you've got the switches themselves.

The Azoth 96 HE uses Asus's ROG HFX V2 clackers, the same ones that captured my attention in the Falcata. They're the smoothest, most mechanical-feeling magnetic switches I've tested so far, and in the Azoth chassis they have a bounce and energy that's unmatched. I feel springy moving across this board, with the sensitivity of those adjustable actuation points making for a particularly speedy, but still satisfying, gaming experience.

If you're going all-out on the best Hall effect gaming keyboard, the Azoth is where you should be looking. If you want to get 90% of the way there for a lot less cash, though, I'd recommend the Vanguard instead.

Read more: Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE review

The best Hall effect keyboard for most players

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 was the top dog before the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE came onto the scene. With its plastic construction, wired-only connection, and under-utilized display it's not quite the best on the market, comparatively, but it's still the best Hall effect keyboard for more casual players who don't want to break past the $300 price bracket.

The Vanguard thrives on its compact, but still button-heavy, form factor and excellent MGX V2 switches. Those clackers come second only to the Asus ROG HFX V2s inside the Azoth and Falcata, offering a super smooth keypress with a satisfying bounce and a real thocky feel. It's not quite as energetic as the softer options from Asus, but it's certainly more comfortable than the woolly options available elsewhere.

The main feather in this deck's cap is its functional but still space-saving layout. This is a squished 96% deck, giving you access to all your number keys, arrow buttons, and most navigation buttons, while still leaving mouse-swinging room to the right. Yes, it's a little cramped but it only takes a little muscle memory re-learning to get into the swing of those key placements, and I'd certainly take the five dedicated macro buttons while they're on offer.

So the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 stands tall in its typing feel, actuation adjustment, and extra controls. Where does it fall down?

If you thought you were getting the same kind of OLED display experience as you would the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE above, you'd be sorely mistaken. The panel on this model feels particularly under-utilized, only really offering some backgrounds and a volume dial. Compare that to the switch adjustment, media control, and system spec offering on Asus's model and the difference is pretty clear.

Still, with a wired connection and durable plastic chassis, the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 comes in significantly cheaper than top-of-the-market options, without sacrificing core features and typing feeling. That's a win in my books.

Read more: Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 review

The best budget Hall effect keyboard

The Endgame Gear KB65HE is actually one of the first Hall effect gaming keyboards I tested, but that age means it's falling much further down the price scale compared to newer releases. I'll get this straight out the way, it's a lot heavier under the fingers compared to more modern models and you do drop dual-step actuation features. However, if you're looking to spend less than $100 / £100 on one of the best Hall effect gaming keyboards, it's still excellent value.

Everything about this deck is heavy, from the super dense brick of a chassis to the stiffer switches under the hood. That's not necessarily a bad thing. If you have a heavy hammer these are incredibly satisfying. I prefer a lighter touch and even I had a good time here.

It's rare to find magnetic switches in a gaming keyboard this far down the price bracket. You're usually looking at a $130 / £130 investment minimum (and that's with the heaviest of discounts applied). The Endgame Gear KB65HE keeps the basics (there are no dual-step actuations in here) while sporting a commendable $49.99 MSRP, miles from its original $140 launch price.

Those Gateron switches maintain their smooth feel with a slightly higher level of tension under each key than you'll find in more modern devices. With sensitivities bumped up as high as they go, that heavier feel goes out the window completely. I can still zip across a CS2 map at a hair trigger input, all with my more problematic keys staying well out the way of accidental presses.

You can spend a lot more than $50 and get only half of these features in a cheaper mechanical deck. The Endgame Gear KB65HE may be the oldest Hall effect gaming keyboard on this list, but that quality has endured and fought off years' worth of competition all the while.

Read more: Endgame Gear KB65HE review

The best compact Hall effect keyboard

Don't want your deck to take up all your space? 60% keyboards are the smallest most players opt for, but the lack of arrow keys is often a drawback. If you're after the best compact Hall effect gaming keyboard, though, Razer uses its analog switches to make all those problems go away. The Huntsman V3 Pro Mini keeps things incredibly efficient, making good use of those dual-step actuation features to provide handy arrow functionality while still saving you space.

These are Razer's Analog Optical Switch Gen-2s, so we're not exactly playing with Hall effect clackers here. The fundamental benefits are still the same, though, with adjustable actuation from 0.1 to 4.0mm, dual-step inputs, and rapid trigger on board. There's another trick up this deck's sleeve, though.

Those analog switches can also mimic the finer controls of a thumbstick. Simply assign WASD to joystick controls in Synapse, and you've got an extra degree of control over just how far you're moving, or steering, or peering in-game. That comes in clutch for stealth titles in particular, but if you don't have a PC controller for racing games it's also far more accommodating.

It's not all roses in Razer's camp, though. The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini has a particularly thin frame, which hasn't been stuffed with particularly high quality sound dampening. That means I hear a noticeable amount of echo and ping when hitting keys particularly hard. It's nowhere near as bad as mechanical keyboards used to be, but if you're used to a deeper thock it may well take you a second to get used to.

Opting for a smaller form factor also, naturally, means you lose dedicated media controls. Everything's mapped up to alternative keys here, but if you need access to your volume at all times it's something to consider.

Read more: Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini review

The best full-sized Hall effect keyboard

Even the best Hall effect keyboards are power hungry, so it's a little rare to find a full-sized model that also sports a wireless connection. Ducky gets around that power draw by swapping over to inductive clackers. That means this is another not-strictly-HE keyboard, but it still has the same functions and features, with the added benefit of a cord-free setup.

Yes, this is a wireless gaming keyboard, but that max 15 hours of juice isn't going to get you too far. Instead, I'd recommend this deck primarily to those after a full-size keyboard rather than a cord-free one.

The extra cost of those inductive switches means full-sized decks are a little harder to come by, but the Ducky One X manages to squeeze a full rack of magnetic clackers into a $180 MSRP. Not only that, but it runs spectacularly.

There are a few sacrifices - awkward software means this is one you'll want to set and forget and there's no storage for onboard profiles. However, a gold-standard of sound dampening and a soft, smooth typing experience keeps the Ducky One X a step above its alternatives.

It's a slightly unique feel, almost padded out underneath the fingertips. That means you're not quite getting the energy or bounce of something like the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE - it's more serene, like the mechanical Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile. I said that deck felt like typing on fresh snow, and the experience isn't too dissimilar here.

If you want the functionality of a Hall effect keyboard, but hate how they typically feel under the fingertips and don't want to sacrifice your extra keys this is absolutely where I'd be pointing you.

Read more: Ducky One X review

The best Hall effect keyboard for beginners

Logitech has been smart with its G512 X magnetic gaming keyboard. Only the left side of the deck is compatible with TMR switches and straight out the box you'll find a full sweep of mechanical clackers under those PBT keycaps. That's because rather than fill the whole deck, Logi supplies nine Gateron K20 magnetic switches along the top of the deck. These can be hot-swapped where you need them.

That means you can set up your magnetic switches exactly where you need them (likely around the WASD cluster) and still keep simpler mechanical switches elsewhere. That's perfect for beginners, especially considering the best Hall effect keyboards are a significant investment.

Here, you're spending a little less than you would for a full premium deck and still keeping the option to revert to mechanical clackers if you don't get on with the more customizable option. There's certainly a learning curve to using these switches, so any flexibility is a win.

The typing feel is a little heavier than I typically see, but it's still satisfying and smooth. I'd avoid it if you're looking for a particularly creamy stem, but I was still able to type for an entire work day without feeling too much fatigue. Not only that, but using both magnetic and mechanical switches didn't present too much of an awkward shift during day to day use as well.

It's the smart design choices of the G512 X that have earned its position on this page, though. Aside from those swappable magnetic switches, Logitech has also provided a series of O-rings nestled into the top lid. When attached to a TMR key, these provide a more tangible bump for multiple actuation use. No more guessing when you're half way down the stem - another win for beginners.

I do have my concerns about the case durability, but they're limited to the small line of plastic along the front edge of the top plastic. While the rest is sturdy, the overhang on this design means it's a little more flexible here - with considerable bending and some creaking under pressure. This is one to keep on the desk rather than in a backpack.

Read more: Logitech G512 X review

The best hot-swappable Hall effect keyboard

For the slightly more expensive Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR to make sense you'll need to be absolutely sure of two things; you need a wireless connection and you want the option to revert back to mechanical switches. A $249.99 / £209.99 MSRP doesn't put the Cherry deck at the top of the price range, but you're still spending a chunk of change on those extra features. For those hunting down a more versatile mechanical and magnetic option, this is a pretty unique proposition.

Some of the best Hall effect keyboards claim they're hot-swappable, but looking into the fine print you'll find most are only compatible with a couple of magnetic options. Cherry's deck flips that completely, with support for both Hall effect and mechanical clickers. This is the first time I've seen cross-switch compatibility and it's pretty rare out there.

Elsewhere, the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR Wireless still holds up as a fantastic deck in its own right. With TMR sensors to keep that power slightly lower than more traditional options (and an 8,000mAh charge), the wireless battery life extends to a week of full-day use in my setup, with RGB switch on. Wireless magnetic decks are often falling far short of that benchmark.

The typing experience is as you'd expect from a Cherry deck, smooth, soft, and particularly well sound-dampened. There's just the right amount of resistance underneath each cap making for a speedy typing and gaming experience, especially when set at max sensitivity.

It's not, however, one for those who spend a lot of time in a keyboard's software. Cherry's downloadable program is far less intuitive than the rest of the market. Everything is still configurable and the app covers everything you'd need, but it's no looker and it can be difficult to parse each section's function. That's where the MX 8.2 Pro TMR loses most of its marks, but those building a more subtle setup will also want to check the strange logos emblazed across the space bar and top lip.

Read more: Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR Wireless review

How I test Hall effect keyboards

The first thing I do with any Hall effect gaming keyboard that passes my desk is dive into the settings. The day-one experience of setting up a deck is sacred, but a smooth setup is all the more important when magnetic switches are taken into account. Getting those actuation points right, setting up rapid trigger settings, and creating certain per-game presets is essential to getting your money's worth out of a Hall effect deck, and unintuitive software can sour the experience straight out the gate.

Once everything's set up I spend a week living, working, and playing with the deck as if it were my own. That means I'm playing the games on my current roster, using the keyboard for all my daily work, and running its battery, any additional displays, and macro keys as I would in my usual routines.

The second week of testing gets a little more intensive. Once I've settled into a deck, allowed muscle memory to take over, and got a feel for the switches, I'm going back into the settings and tearing everything apart. I test competitive performance in CS2 and Apex Legends, running each keyboard at its heaviest and lightest switch settings with rapid trigger enabled.

From there, any additional features not previously covered by my everyday use are explored further. Any joystick-like analog features, four-step trigger options, or extra macro buttons / display settings are put to work across both competitive and single player endeavours. I also complete three speed tests in TypingTest.com, each test is spent in medium text on a one minute run. Final typing speeds and accuracy measures are taken as an average.

This second week of testing is also spent with other Hall effect keyboards on the desk. I directly test against each keyboard's major competition, whether that's from a price or feature perspective.

Wireless Hall effect keyboards are charged fully at the start of testing and left to do their thing. I don't turn them off when I'm done for the day, and I'm running full brightness until the battery eventually dies. After that charge run, I lower the brightness to 50% for a second go and, where applicable, test that lifespan on an 8,000Hz connection.

For more information on how we test gaming keyboards, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

Also Tested

How to choose a Hall effect gaming keyboard

So you know you want to dive into the world of magnetic switches - it's a pretty big world. To help you narrow down your choice, it's worth getting some early must-have questions out the way early.

First you need to work out how much you want to spend. These decks aren't cheap - you're likely looking at more than $100 no matter how many features you drop (Endgame Gear KB65HE excluded), but price scales with extras and you might not need all of them.

The above table isn't a hard line, it's just an approximation based on what I've seen so far. There will absolutely be outliers to these but in general you'll find that the mid-range sits between $100 and $200 for a magnetic deck, with the move to $250 opening you up to better feeling switches overall. That's a lot higher than a mechanical option.

This is the point when you need to decide how important typing feel is. If you're just going for the core features of magnetic switches, and don't use your keyboard for hours of everyday work in between play sessions it's worth sticking to the low end of the $100s. That's where you'll find some of the best value on the market.

If you know you'll need to take your keyboard with you on your travels, or you're happy to invest in a wire-free setup a cordless connection is going to cost you. You can start to drop the wire at around $250, with better battery lives available in the $300+ region.

FAQ

Take a look at the best membrane gaming keyboards and best hot-swappable keyboards for a different deck flavor.

I have a history with the Asus ROG Azoth line. When I reviewed the first model back in 2023, I instantly fell in love with its excellent sound dampening, hot-swappable PCB, and incredibly energetic typing feel.

That was back when the best gaming keyboards were only just learning what gasket mounting was and where to put the foam sheets. Things have moved on, though. With magnetic switches taking over the high-end market and Asus's own ROG HFX clackers representing the best I've used so far, I jumped at the chance to get the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE on my desk.

After a string of, frankly, unnecessary releases in this range, this is the keyboard that's bringing me back to the Azoth - but goodness is it an expensive journey. Asus provided the review sample I've been testing at no cost, but when a device proves itself as the 'best' I've tested, I'm often a little more lenient around a higher price tag. After all, if something is objectively ticking more boxes and providing a better experience than something else, it is 'better'.

In this case, the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE's $359.99 MSRP is a full $130 more than the keyboard I'd recommend after it, the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 ($229.99). That's a serious leap in pricing.

This isn't out of the blue, though. The Asus ROG Falcata launched earlier last year at a ludicrous $429.99 starting price. That's a more niche split deck that's working a little harder for a specific set of users, but it's still a set of numbers that would have been unthinkable a few years ago.

The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE has so much going for it. It is the best Hall effect gaming keyboard I've tested so far. Whether or not it's easy to recommend as a top-choice gaming keyboard is a slightly different matter.

What I love

The best feeling magnetic switches I've used

I've been struggling with the Asus ROG Falcata of late. It's got the best magnetic switches I've used so far, but the split design and $400+ price point make it difficult to fully recommend. Thankfully, the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE uses the same clackers, and the experience is just as smooth this time around.

Magnetic keyboards are great for extra gaming features, but the extra tension under each key makes for a slightly lethargic typing feel. Considering I loved the original Asus ROG Azoth's bouncy switches, the Hall effect version has filled some big boots in 2026. Every keypress is as smooth and rich as you'd expect from a well-tuned mechanical keyboard, no more woolly pressure under each cap.

That makes a world of difference in everyday typing, but it also makes for a more spritely gaming experience as well. There's a distinct snap to each keypress here and, combined with that speedy rapid trigger and the ability to set actuation points a little higher than a typical mechanical deck, I've been propelled across the deck with particular ease.

Not many mainstream gaming keyboard brands know how to get a keyboard sounding and feeling this good, but Asus has some kind of secret sauce in its factory. These folks know how to dampen a deck, and they've poured that sacred wisdom into the ROG Azoth 96 HE.

That means it's a more pleasant experience than that of the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96. Its competitor is still impressively smooth and far better than most Hall effect options, but the Azoth brings extra energy to the experience as a whole.

If you're coming to the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE from one of the previous mechanical options, those switches are going to be the biggest change by far. You can read more about the benefits of magnetic clackers in my guide to what is a Hall effect gaming keyboard, but essentially, they're free from the on/off moving parts of a mechanical option.

Instead, the Azoth 96 HE allows you to set per-key customizable actuation points (the moment a keypress is registered) from 0.1mm to 3.5mm in depth. It's a little shorter than others on the market - Corsair's Vanguard Pro, for example, takes you all the way down to 4mm, as does the Glorious GMMK 3 Pro HE). That means higher sensitivities on keys you need to hit faster, and more force is required on the buttons you don't want to accidentally hit.

It also opens the door to faster, rapid trigger inputs. When a mechanical switch is pressed, it needs to fully 'reset' its position before it can register a new input (physically, a pin needs to slot back into place). With magnets, you can set where that reset point is, and the deck can even dynamically alter it while you're spamming. It essentially means much faster repeat presses.

Finally, now that your keyboard knows how far down you want to press to actuate, it can assign multiple functions to different levels of pressure. The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE allows for four individual inputs per press (two on the way down and one on the way up). You're less likely to live and die by this feature, but it is helpful for keeping walk / run separate on the W key, for example, and Asus's implementation doubles the usual two-step inputs offered elsewhere (like the Vanguard).

Battery life keeps up with that wireless connection

The magnetic switches inside the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE offer far greater versatility and control for gamers, but you don't see too many of the best wireless gaming keyboards moving away from mechanical clackers. There's good reason for that, and it goes a long way to explaining the Azoth's particularly high price tag.

Not only does the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE manage to get away with a wireless connection (via both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz), but it's also got a battery that can keep it juiced up at the same time. That's rare - these switches are hungry for charge and can often eat up a full battery in just over a day.

The Ducky One X, for example, will barely last 15 hours on my desk before needing to be plugged in. I've been running the Azoth 96 HE for about a week of work and play on a single charge, equating to roughly 45 to 50 hours.

It's nowhere near the seemingly immortal battery life of the original model, which I can often forget needs charging at all, but it's certainly above the average of all the Hall effect keyboards I've tested over the last couple of years.

Well designed key spacing

The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE makes another major change compared to previous iterations. The 96% form factor means it's closer to a full-sized keyboard in functionality while still keeping a more compact design on the desk. A few decks (most notably the Corsair Vanguard) are adopting similar practices these days, which means you get access to all those right-hand numbers and a few nav keys (minus home, insert, and end) while still keeping space for mouse swipes to the side.

Asus gets its spacing right, though. There's a small line of separation between the main deck and the arrow keys, with a little extra buffer to the number pad. It's an extra piece of top plate that might not seem like much, but compared with the Corsair Vanguard that simply squishes everything into a more homogenous cluster, it makes for a far more relaxed experience.

Just that bit of extra spacing delineates the different key zones enough to make sure I always know where I am on the deck, and can hit arrow keys more reliably. Sure, it still takes a second to get used to, but it's far easier to re-learn than Corsair's implementation. It also makes for a more visually appealing keyboard overall.

OLED display feels more useful than others

Top gaming keyboards have been adding OLED displays to their spec sheets for years now, and the Asus ROG Azoth nailed its iteration back in 2023. Nobody seems to have caught up, though, and Asus has simply doubled down on what made its original panel so great.

While Corsair limits its screen to a few images and animations, and the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 adds more functionality without the luxury of colour and far fewer pixels, the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE takes everything a step further.

Onboard switch sensitivity and actuation settings can be accessed and controlled via the button and rocker switch to the right of the display, with everything from hardware vitals to keystrokes per second on the screen itself. That's far more useful than the rest of the market, which seems content to keep the display as a neat extra rather than a core piece of the puzzle.

What to consider

We're in another price bracket now

The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE packs a rare wireless connection with the battery to support it, offers the best magnetic switches I've used so far, and makes its extra features work a little harder for it than the competition. It's also priced well above the rest of the market.

The Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid and Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini can offer you adjustable switches for less than $200, albeit while dropping that premium typing feel and wireless connection.

I was beginning to think the top end of the market sat with the Keychron Q1 HE 8K and Corsair's $229.99 MSRPs, but Asus is looking to push those prices a little higher than the rest of the gang. At $349.99, the Azoth isn't as expensive as the Falcata, but it's still the third most premium deck I've tested so far. That's taking the fully-configured Glorious GMMK 3 Pro HE with all bells and whistles and a launch day price tag into account - that deck can be found for between $200 and $300 these days.

Yes, the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE offers a better experience than these alternatives, but are those benefits worth $130? That's largely down to you. I love this typing feel, keyboards are a real passion of mine, and I'm happy to invest in something that ticks all my boxes. I would still wait for a sale on this one.

The problem is this. The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE is in a different price league to the rest of the market, but its benefits don't quite justify that jump.

Should you buy the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE?

The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE is an expensive gaming keyboard, and it's only going to make sense for those who prioritize a high-end typing feel more than anything else. Every other combination of features is already served by cheaper decks.

How I tested the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE

I used the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE as my main daily keyboard for a period of two weeks, with a day's worth of side-by-side testing against the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96, Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 TKL TMR, Asus ROG Azoth, and Asus ROG Falcata. That's eight hours of typing per day, with a couple hours of gaming in the evening and more involved play over the weekend. In that time, I tested in CS2 and Doom: The Dark Ages, with additional time spent in Planet Coaster. For more information on how we test gaming keyboards, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

For more switch options, check out the best hot-swappable keyboards or the best membrane gaming keyboards for something a little cheaper. We're also rounding up all the best gaming mouse models on the market for a full refresh.

The Corsair Galleon 100 SD has made it into my hall of fame, joining the ranks of the best gaming keyboards I've tested so far with the top slot in the full-sized category. That's a long way of saying I've been testing it directly against the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro (my previous go-to) and the Galleon has come out on top.

This is the second time in about as many months that I've added a new Corsair keyboard to my roster, the brand is clearly on a roll. This time, though, it's the addition of a full Stream Deck on the right side that has me itching to recommend it. At $349.99 it's more expensive than Razer's entry (and that's difficult to do), but in the right setup this is going to be an endgame device.

I'll get the gushing out of the way early so we can talk about whether or not this is the deck for you. Put simply, I had a ton of fun completing my Corsair Galleon 100 SD review thanks to those additional Stream Deck controls and the seemingly endless versatility they provide. With the full functionality of one of the most popular pads on the market, the Galleon can do pretty much whatever you need it to both in work and play. The result is a strangle intoxicating freedom to stick whatever I want on my keyboard, from quick access to Spotify playlists to a dedicated Planet Coaster control scheme. Nobody else can beat that.

The best full-sized gaming keyboards

Troublesome value

Taken in isolation, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD is easily the best full-sized gaming keyboard on the market. However, it might not be right for your setup.

Essentially, I'm happiest recommending this premium deck to anyone who is also in the market for a Stream Deck. If you already have one of the launcher pads in your setup you're not going to feel the benefit of simply shifting an extra one onto your keyboard. Similarly, the Galleon makes the most sense for players who will actually use that screen and those two extra dials.

That's because, at launch, the versatility of these particular components is a little restricted by the lack of dedicated plugins and available controls. There's a whole world of opportunity here, but it hasn't been captured quite yet.

If you don't see yourself using the extra dials and display, picking up a cheaper deck and a separate Stream Deck Mk.2 is going to offer the same core experience at a far lower price. You can even upgrade those mechanical switches to magnetic ones if you go for something like the Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid or NZXT Function Elite, adding adjustable actuation points and rapid trigger to your arsenal of weapons.

I still have to take my hat off to Corsair, this is a gold standard for controls and flexibility but whether or not it makes sense for your desk is another matter.

Corsair Galleon 100 SD vs Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro

After completing my Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro review back in 2023, it went straight to the top of my full-sized recommendations list. It's stayed there ever since, so it's testament to the BlackWidow that it took a full $350 Stream Deck-toting monster to knock it off its spot.

The BlackWidow is $100 / £100 cheaper than Corsair's premium deck, and that's a win that can't be ignored. However, if we're truly looking at which device offers the best experience the trophy has to go to Corsair. Razer impressed me with its massive selection of additional controls; four rotary dials, a volume scroll, five dedicated macro keys, and three further multi-function buttons on the side of the deck. That's a hell of a lot to play with, but Corsair has streamlined the whole endeavor.

It just feels better to use the Stream Deck integration on the Galleon. My commands aren't split into different places on the keyboard, I can configure handy LED reminders for different presets and toggles, and everything can be drag and dropped from the Elgato software. That's not even mentioning the fact that you've got access to the whole plugin marketplace, whereas Razer's scope is significantly more limited.

Let's move away from that Stream Deck bell, though. The Corsair MLX Pulse switches inside the Galleon 100 SD feel a little more robust than Razer's linear offerings, with a richer sound quality and more luxurious feel overall. Don't get me wrong, both offer fantastic typing experiences, but if you prefer a more textured thock Corsair's going to be your best bet.

Razer also carries its full-sized form factor a little further, which means less space on the desk itself. With those macro keys in a row on the left this feels like a much wider deck in use. When testing side by side, I've noticed my mouse hand knocking into the BlackWidow a little more often, and I've got a relatively large surface area. Those with a smaller desk can still benefit from all the additional controls without sacrificing too much play space with Corsair's alternative.

Buy the Corsair Galleon 100 SD if:

✅ You're a streamer or content creator
✅ You want as many controls on your keyboard as possible
✅ You have a regular sized desk

Buy the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro if:

✅ You're investing, but you still don't want to spend $350
✅ You're not interested in Elgato plugins
✅ You want more dials than buttons

The rest of the best

The Corsair Galleon 100 SD actually joins the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 in my recent additions to the top list. The Vanguard currently sits at the number one slot thanks to its fantastic magnetic switches, compact but versatile 96% form factor, and excellent typing feel.

If, however, you're looking for a cheaper alternative you can't go wrong with the Newmen GM326. While the Vanguard will cost you $350, this is a hot-swappable mechanical keyboard that can sometimes drop as low as $20. At that price I wasn't expecting much when I got it on the test bench, but this super cheap deck proves just how far budget accessories have come in 2026.

For those ditching the cables, the Asus ROG Azoth still reigns supreme. I'm yet to see the rest of the best wireless gaming keyboards even getting close to this keyboard's battery life, and it does so with a beautifully sound-dampened chassis, sublime typing feel, and a display that works far harder than the competition.

If you're after a little more versatility, check out the best hot-swappable keyboards on the market. Or, for something a little cheaper take a look at the best membrane keyboards I've tested so far. For a full setup refresh, take a look at the best gaming mouse models available.

Three years ago I sat in front of the Asus ROG Azoth and knew it was going to be a winner. That mechanical 75%-er so perfectly fused the worlds of custom decks and the best gaming keyboards it seemed like nothing would ever top it. And, for a long time, nothing did.

In the years since, Asus has released new versions with ever-increasing price tags, adding white colorways, new switches, wrist rests, and strange space-themed designs. None of them truly captured that hazy summer of love with the original... until I sat across from the latest release this weekend. The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE takes the best parts of its ancestor, adds extra keys, and throws in some of the best magnetic switches I've used so far.

It's also one of the more expensive gaming keyboards on the market today. Amazon has dropped that $359.99 MSRP down to $305.99 (a record-low price) this week, but we're still talking about a good chunk of change here. Still, with Resident Evil Requiem thrown in for free and wireless magnetic keyboards representing the very top end of the market, this is a deck worth investigating.

Let's look at that $305.99 sales price under the microscope a little.

The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE's closest competition is the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96. That's currently got pole position on my gaming keyboard recommendation list. It's a wired-only, plastic chassis device that doesn't push its OLED display quite as far as the Azoth, but it's also $76 cheaper right now, at its usual $229.99 MSRP (Amazon).

Is the extra investment worth it? It depends.

In short, you'll reap the benefits if you need three things from your new keyboard; a hardworking onboard display, a wireless connection, and a more premium chassis.

I've only had the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE on the desk for a few days now, whereas I've spent weeks with the Vanguard in prime position. Side by side, the Azoth does feel a little tighter under the fingertips. It uses the same ROG HFX V2 switches that I celebrated in my Asus ROG Falcata review (an even more expensive deck), aka the best magnetic clickers I've personally tested so far.

They're smooth, snappy, incredibly energetic and offer a satisfying level of resistance without ever feeling mushy or woolly. If you told me they were mechanical, I'd probably believe you, and considering the original Azoth shone for its typing experienc,e that's saying something.

The now-full-color OLED display in the top right corner is also far more versatile than Corsair's. Real system specs, magnetic switch adjustment controls, and a plethora of media and RGB controls make this a far more sophisticated tool overall.

If you don't need a wireless connection (and very few players actually do), don't mind a still-durable plastic shell, and won't be using that OLED display too much, it makes sense to take the saving and opt for the Vanguard. Its MGX V2 switches are still incredibly impressive (second only to Asus's) with a truly satisfying thock to each keypress. Plus, you'll get the added benefit of five extra macro buttons down the side as well.

• See all gaming keyboards at Amazon

Want more cord-free options? I'm also rounding more of the best wireless gaming keyboards, or take a look at the best hot-swappable keyboards for more versatility and the best membrane gaming keyboards for lower prices.

Cherry's keyboards have been faltering recently, stuck in a fairly boring pattern that never seemed to challenge the best gaming keyboards on the market. The Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR leapfrogs that progress, though, offering magnetic and mechanical hot-swappability for the first time and using newer TMR sensors to keep things nimble and juiced up for hours.

While its software will be a headache and its otherwise slick design is marred by some gaudy stamps, a premium typing feel and wireless connection will reward anyone willing to invest in a specific set of must-haves.

What I love about the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR

Luxurious typing

After spending the last year testing all manner of stuffy, woolly Hall effect keyboards, the TMR switches inside the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR feel like a welcome relief. This is an extremely smooth keypress, with very little resistance behind every clack. Combine that with a set of perfectly textured keycaps (soft and comfortable, but with a faint hint of grain to grip onto) and you've got a keyboard that feels glorious even during longer typing sessions.

I use a lot of different decks, but every now and then my fingers land on a set of keys that sit a step higher than the rest in terms of feel and the Cherry XTRFY MC 8.2 Pro TMR has that luxury in swathes.

That feel holds up in the speed department as well. With so little resistance under each keycap, and the additional grip, I was able to nudge slightly ahead of my current 95.7 WPM / 95.5% accuracy average, running at 97.6 WPM at 97% accuracy during testing.

Take all the gaming features

Cherry uses TMR sensors inside its first magnetic keyboard, an alternative to the sensors used in Hall effect decks that's slowly picking up steam. TMR clackers provide benefits in precision, sensitivity, and power efficiency (which is why the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR can get away with a wireless connection). Still, the actual returns on those upgrades aren't going to be too noticeable to the everyday player.

Instead, it's worth noting that you're keeping all the features of your regular Hall effect keyboards, with the added bonus of four actuations per input (most opt for two, save for premium options like the Asus ROG Falcata and Glorious GMMK 3 Pro HE). Rapid trigger, SOCD, and an 8,000Hz polling rate (for the truly competitive among us) keep things competitive with the rest of the Hall effect market.

If you're going for a particularly deep keypress, though, it's worth noting that the MX 8.2 Pro TMR caps out at 3.2mm (most go to four).

Rare flexibility in switch swapping

I've always had a question mark looming over each of my Cherry gaming keyboard reviews. From the original Cherry MX 8.2 to the full-sized Cherry MX 3.1, I've always been astonished that the biggest switch brand on the market wouldn't make its keyboards hot-swappable. The MX 8.2 Pro TMR has come through, though, beating the rest of the Hall effect market to true switch freedom.

These decks have been trying to threaten the best hot-swappable keyboards for a couple of years now, but they're generally limited to a handful of compatible HE options. Cherry's latest deck is fully hot-swappable with both magnetic and mechanical clickers, the first I've had on the desk.

Yes, you'll lose those additional gaming features by ripping out the Cherry MK Crystal switches straight out the box, but extra versatility for mechanical fans is always a win in my books.

Remarkable battery life

There's a reason the best wireless gaming keyboards are rarely magnetic. More traditional Hall effect sensors drain that power incredibly quickly, I've had decks last less than a day's work and play in the past. The power efficiency of those TMR sensors, however, plus the massive 8,000mAh battery hiding inside this chassis means the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR can run for up to 300 hours, as quoted by the brand itself.

That's an optimistic estimate likely with RGBs switched off and more power-hungry features un-toggled. However, I've only had to charge this deck once every week or so, with full RGB blaring for an average of 10 hours per day. That's far more distance than I'll usually get in a magnetic keyboard.

What to consider

High price tag

At $249.99 / £209.99, the MX 8.2 Pro TMR is sitting a little higher than the rest of the TKL competition. While magnetic keyboards generally skew more expensive than their mechanical counterparts, especially if they have that wireless 2.4GHz connection, a wired device can offer the same core features for a lot less.

Sure, you've got giants like the Stream Deck-toting Corsair Galleon 100 SD up for $349.99, but cheaper alternatives like the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini and Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid won't cost you more than $180.

If that wireless connection is a must-have then this is a reasonable price tag, though you are losing out on additional features like extra displays, more keys, and additional macro controls on something cheaper like the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96.

Some questionable design choices

Cherry generally releases understated (sometimes verging on boring) gaming keyboard designs, and things are largely the same here. However, there are a few logos and icons that could get in the way of a more minimalist setup. Fairly retro-looking 'DualMaster' logos are stamped across the escape bar and, more egregiously, the top lip of the keyboard. They're fairly gaudy and taint what would otherwise be a slick looking deck, complete with brushed aluminum top plate and premium 'Cherry XTRFY' embossed logo above the arrow keys.

Considering there's no mention of this DualMaster branding, or what it represents, on marketing or packaging, it's a little confusing and takes up a surprising amount of space in the final design.

Tricky software

Cherry's MagCrate software will need to be downloaded to make full use of all those switch and RGB features, but it's a pretty awkward piece of kit. Booting it up is pretty slow (heck, even switching between tabs introduces a loading screen), there are some strange translations running through the software, and the interface itself is pretty cluttered.

Certain features are explained with bizarre text that takes a serious amount of thought to parse meaning, while the whole thing is squished into a smaller window that can't be resized easily. It gets the job done and all customization options work as expected, but it's far from a pleasant experience.

Should you buy the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR?

Those hunting down a magnetic gaming keyboard that still allows for a wireless connection and versatile hot-swappability will find excellent value in that $249.99 price tag. This is a glorious keyboard once it's under the fingertips and initial setup through that software has been put to bed. However, if hot-swappability and a cord-free connection aren't high on your must-have list there are far better options out there.

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 is my top pick at the moment, and that still stands now that Cherry's model has been under the microscope. It's a more robust typing feel than the MX 8.2 Pro TMR's light, clacky offering, with the additional benefit of an OLED display, a volume wheel, a compact but full-sized layout, and five extra macro keys. It's also slightly cheaper, with MSRPs sitting at $229.99 / £209.99.

Further down the price scale, you've got the Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid. Here, you're keeping the slimmer form factor but adding dedicated media controls and dropping the MSRP down to $189.99 (though it's regularly on sale for less than $150 at Amazon). It's a heavier typing experience for sure, but it's also excellent value for those mainlining for magnetic switches.

How I tested the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR

I used the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR for two weeks, running the deck as my main keyboard for daily work and play in the evenings. I primarily tested across CS2 and Doom: The Dark Ages, with some lighter play in Planet Coaster as well. I completed three one minute tests at Medium difficulty on TypingTest.com. For more information on how we test gaming keyboards, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

If you're after something a little cheaper, check out the best membrane gaming keyboards on the market right now, Or, for a full setup refresh take a look at the best gaming mouse and best wireless gaming mouse models I've tested so far.

Razer's running another of its super limited hardware drops in just two days time, and this time it's the Huntsman keyboard getting the premium treatment. The Razer Huntsman Signature Edition has been CNC milled from 6063 anodized aluminum and polished off with PVD finishing. Throw in the brand's analog switches, a set of PBT keycaps, and sound dampening internals, slap a serialized stamp on the side and you've got yourself a Signature Edition. Oh yeah, it also costs $499.99 / £499.99.

You'll need to be a serious fan of the Huntsman line to take a place in line when the 1,337 available units start dropping at 8am PT on February 22. I can see why you would be, they're some of the best gaming keyboards on the market, especially if you're after analog customizable switches. $500 though? This is a showpiece rather than a full release.

Still, it's fun to see what Sneki's been cooking up for its 1,300-odd most loyal fans.

For your $500, the Razer Huntsman Signature Edition is constructed from the brand's favorite hard-wearing CNC aluminum before being finished with a process known as Physical Vapor Deposition. It's a coating system that essentially vaporizes the top layer of a metalic surface before fusing a concoction of chemicals to the surface to boost durability and bragging rights.

Razer wants its final hand-polishing stage to create "a mirror-like sheen" over the exposed surfaces and, looking at images released alongside the announcement, it looks like it's succeeded. That is one shiny surface.

Of course, you're also getting all the staples of the Huntsman line here, including those Razer Analog Optical Switches Gen-2. These are some of my favorite adjustable clickers, with a slick joystick mode and a comfortable dual-step actuation that makes for a gameplay experience as simple or complex as you need. You don't need to spend $500 on a premium chassis to get that, though. In fact, the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini is one of the best decks of all time and comes in at $133.19 at Amazon right now.

The Razer Huntsman Signature Edition isn't a serious gaming keyboard, it's a fun costume change, a confetti canon for the hardcore Sneki-heads. Still, if you've got the cash to burn and you want a statement piece, those 1,337 units are likely to move fairly fast so it's worth sticking around Razer on February 22.

• See all Razer keyboards at Amazon

I'm also rounding up all the best membrane keyboards on the market as well as the best wireless gaming keyboards. For something more mechanical, though, check out the best hot-swappable keyboards I've tested.

Keychron came out the magnetic keyboard gate swinging last year, with both the Q1 HE and ceramic Q16 HE 8K. Now it's got a speedy 75% option for those after high polling rates and a snappier switch feel, and the Keychron Q1 HE 8K delivers on its promises. Whether those features will be enough to sway gamers away from similarly priced alternatives remains to be seen.

This $229.99 price point is starting to look a little crowded. The Q1 HE 8K isn't going to trouble the best gaming keyboard I've tested so far: it lacks a few of the gaming-specific features to give the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 anything to worry about. However, if you're after a high-level typing experience with a firmer feel overall, this is still well worth a look.

Design

At this point, nobody's expecting Keychron to release a keyboard that feels anything short of bomb-proof. The solid 6063 aluminum chassis sits dense and heavy on a desk top, dissuading any considerations of portability but holding firm against mouse knocks and providing a solid, deep landing pad for keypresses. This is the same kind of stocky impenetrability we've come to expect from the brand, though.

It also means Keychron takes the first win against the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96, feeling sturdier and heavier overall.

Underneath all that aluminum, the Keychron Q1 HE 8K is packed with a gasket design and silicone pads. It means every keypress is muted, clean, bouncy, and extremely satisfying to hear. As we'll get into in the switch section below, that's the first major difference between this and the Keychron Q1 HE, which presents a far softer sound and feel overall.

The full deck benefits from some natural elevation in its slightly wedge-shaped design, but those coming from a more traditional gaming keyboard will notice a flatter typing experience. There are no extendable kick feet underneath to provide that extra height, and without a palm rest in the box, I did feel a strain on the tops of the wrists during extended typing sessions, especially when I'm not sitting properly.

This is a 75% layout, so you're getting all the controls you'll typically need for 90% of games and productivity tasks, with the benefits of extra room to swing that mouse and a more natural shoulder alignment when typing. I typically prefer this layout to others, but if you need that number pad in actio,n it's worth noting that the Vanguard's squished 96% form factor still keeps things relatively slimline on the desk.

Unlike the Q1 HE's bright white, black, and red design (a personal favorite), the 8K model ships with more of a purple skew. The model I'm testing is all-black save for lighter gray keys around the edges and a couple of purple accents. You'll also find the same pattern with white as the main color.

Keycaps

Like most of its keyboards, Keychron has outfitted the Q1 HE 8K with its OSA PBT keycaps. These heavily curved toppers feel solid under the fingertips, if a little softer than the textured options you'll find on more gaming-oriented decks. They're still satisfying, though, with a full, bouncy feel and solid stability thanks to rigid screw-in stabilizers.

Switches

Keychron advertises its Q1 HE 8K board as hot-swappable but there's a great big asterisk over that assertion. Yes, these Ultra-Fast lime Magnetic clackers can be removed from the PCB, but the board isn't compatible with any other switch on the market. Not even Keychron's own. That means this hot-swappability is purely functional, rather than a customization feature, should a clicker die on you.

The switches themselves clearly separate this deck from the previous Q1 HE (and pretty much every other Keychron keyboard I've used so far). Rather than a deep, heavy thock they're far snappier, with a lighter (almost clicky) feel to them overall. There's a definite snap point and a slightly heavier actuation feel than I'm used to from a gaming deck.

That doesn't mean the Q1 HE 8K suffers from the same woolly fate as other Hall effect or magnetic gaming keyboards. There's a little extra resistance in here compared to more traditional mechanical options, but it's far from the stuffy heft you'll feel from older HE models.

Of course, you're getting all the features you'd expect from a Hall effect keyboard these days, though the full actuation range sits a little shorter than the competition at 0.1 - 3.5mm. Most magnetic decks, like the Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid and SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3, go further into heavier presses with a 4mm bottom-out option. It's also worth noting that the Q1 HE 8K goes beyond the standard dual-step actuation options to give you four inputs per press, should you require it.

Software

Like many, Keychron opts for web-based software for its Q1 HE 8K. That means no more pesky downloads clogging up your tray, simply head to Keychron Launcher in your browser, connect the device, and you're away.

It's not the slickest experience out there. Text can show up exceedingly small until you head into browser settings, and some page elements can take a second to pop in fully.

Configuring multiple inputs is a little more convoluted than you'll find in similar applications from Logitech and NZXT, with a more fragmented interface. However, adjusting actuation distance is more intuitive with a handy trigger visualization to help set the right levels.

Gamepad Analog mode can also be configured here, offering a slightly more comprehensive selection of Xbox controls compared to the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini. Where the latter simply turns your WASD keys into an analog joystick, we've got all kinds of system controls up for grabs here.

Controls

The vast majority of playback, brightness, and macro controls are kept on the function row, as you'll usually find in a 75% deck, but the Keychron Q1 HE 8K also offers a control dial with its own button in the top right corner. Mapped as a volume by default, it gets the job done with soft notches and a nice position on the board.

It's stiffer than other control dials out there, though. Combine that with a smooth, soft surface texture, and it's difficult to quickly crank things up during faster moments of gameplay. The button up top is also particularly heavy - far too cumbersome to rely on in-game and even in everyday productivity.

That's about it. If you're looking for an in-depth control panel, you won't find it here. Unlike macro-heavy decks like the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro and Corsair Galleon 100 SD, this is a typing keyboard first and foremost.

Connection

The big story here is that 8,000Hz polling rate. I've said it before and I'll say it again, that's great for those at the top of the esports ladder, but the vast majority of players won't see a benefit in this increased speed. We're talking about fractions of milliseconds that more casual tappers simply don't utilize.

The addition of that high-speed polling rate in the 8K model removes the wireless connection enjoyed by many in the original Q1 HE. Whereas the previous generation offered both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity for easier travel and to keep that desk top clutter-free, we've got a single USB-C cable here.

That's certainly not the end of the world. Even the best wireless keyboards don't give you the same kinds of benefits as wireless gaming mice or wireless gaming headsets. It's worth remembering, though, if you're building a more aesthetic setup.

Typing

The Keychron Q1 HE 8K offers a very different typing experience compared to the original model, but it's still fantastic. The dampening inside the chassis means absolutely zero sound leakage - all we've got here is the sweet sound of those switches clacking. Yes, the actuation force is a little higher than many may be used to in a speed-focused gaming keyboard, and typing for longer durations can get a little fatiguing. However, the light patter and crisp bounce as these keys patter through the deck is well worth the effort.

That extra weight didn't impede my regular typing speed, but it did sometimes drop my precision. In my typing speed tests, I averaged 97 words per minute at 93% accuracy. That's slightly above my general average of 95 WPM, but lagging slightly in the latter (usually I'm at about 95.5%). These tests were completed at a 1.7mm actuation distance.

Gaming

Bumping the sensitivity of those magnetic switches reveals a particularly consistent and nicely speedy gaming keyboard. You've got everything you need from a spec standpoint, with SOCD controls where games permit, rapid trigger, a particularly nifty analog mode for a joystick-like experience, and up to four actions per key. That all comes together for a particularly versatile experience across a range of different genres.

In first-person endeavours like CS2 and Doom: The Dark Ages, the low sensitivity makes twitch-reflex movements feel incredibly snappy, while surrounding keys can be dulled to avoid accidental presses.

I did miss the addition of extra macro buttons in my strategy and simulation pursuits, but my usual roster of dual-input keypresses fired off without a hitch. Having four actuations per-key is nice, but it only makes sense in select few gameplay scenarios.

Should you buy the Keychron Q1 HE 8K?

The Keychron Q1 HE 8K isn't the most expensive gaming keyboard on the market, but it's far from the cheapest. At $229.99, it sits in a luxury category reserved for the decks offering high-end magnetic switches with an extra flourish. This time that twist is speed in the form of that 8,000Hz polling rate. Unfortunately, unless you're at the very top of your game, that embellishment isn't going to give you as many benefits as other decks.

How I tested the Keychron Q1 HE 8K

I've been using the Keychron Q1 HE 8K for two weeks, with a couple of other gaming keyboards popping in and out of rotation. I've primarily been testing across CS2 and Doom: The Dark Ages, with a healthy dose of Planet Coaster and The Sims 4 thrown in for good measure. I tested at both default actuation settings and at the top of the keyboard's sensitivity range (0.1mm). I also performed three typing tests on TypingTest.com, taking the average of all as my final results. For more information on how we test gaming keyboards, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

I'm also rounding up all the best hot-swappable keyboards and the best Razer keyboards for a different brand flavor. If you're after something cheaper, check out the best membrane gaming keyboards on the market.

Cherry merged with XTRFY to start releasing its own gaming keyboards back in 2022, but since then nothing has truly wowed me. That was until the new Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR showed up at my doorstep. The magnetic keyboard is one of the first mainstream gaming decks to use TMR sensing technology, but that's not what's initially turned my head.

The XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR is fully hot-swappable between both magnetic and mechanical switches. That's not something even the best gaming keyboards on the market can claim, and it's a feature that plugs a serious hole in the competition's armor. Cherry has just released its new TKL deck, hitting a lofty $249.99 price tag at Amazon.

I've been keeping an eye on these keyboards for some time now, and every time a new Cherry deck makes its way onto my desk, I'm always confused about why it's not hot-swappable. After all, this is one of the biggest switch brands on the market - why wouldn't they make their decks compatible with their range of clackers?

Cherry has caught up in a big way here; even the few hot-swappable magnetic keyboards that are out there can only swap between a select few Hall effect options. Sure, you're limited to the Cherry MK collection if you want to keep that adjustable actuation, but with any MX mechanical switch open to you, there's a far greater degree of flexibility than most. It finally puts a magnetic model in the best hot-swappable keyboard arena, and I've been waiting for that for a while now.

There's another eyebrow-raiser behind that $249.99 price tag. The MX 8.2 Pro TMR is wireless, with an 8,000Hz polling rate. The brand attributes this ability to the improved energy efficiency of the TMR sensors in its PCB, and it's true, the reason so many Hall effect decks are wired is because there's a lot of processing going on under the hood. Even the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 costs $229.99, and that's cables all the way.

Sure, that wireless connection isn't going to make much of a difference if you keep your keyboard on the desk, though it can keep things a bit tidier and comes in handy for travel.

So, is it worth it?

There are a lot of firsts in this package for me, and after having it on the desk for a few days, I'm impressed overall. That $250 price tag is still premium for a magnetic deck, though the Asus ROG Falcata is sticking close to its $429.99 MSRP so things could be much worse.

Under the hand, this is a particularly soft experience. A particularly deep, rich sound profile combined with smooth matte keycaps and a noticeably denser sound dampening than most makes for a super satisfying typing experience. It's certainly a luxury experience befitting of a higher price tag, but the overall value of the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR will ultimately come down to what you need.

That plush typing feel is fairly similar to that of the Cherry MX 3.1, a full-sized deck that currently sits at $89.99 at Amazon, but is lacking in features overall. We're also much higher than the Cherry K5V2's $139.99 price at Amazon, though that particular 65% model disappointed in its build materials and overall feel.

At $249.99, the MX 8.2 Pro TMR is battling it out with the big guns. After getting it on the desk for a little while, this is what I can tell you right now. It's only going to make sense over the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 (my current top pick across the market) if you prioritize a soft typing feel over extra controls and know you need a compact form factor.

It's certainly nicer than most Hall effect keyboards I've tested so far. Without a lick of that stuffy, woolly feel that still concerns the likes of the NZXT Function Elite Mini TKL and Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid, it's definitely part of the next generation of magnetic decks.

Ultimately, though, this is an expensive option, and the extra wireless connection and hot-swappability may not be enough to sway most players towards Cherry's army.

• See all magnetic keyboards at Amazon

I'm rounding up all the best wireless gaming keyboards for more options, or check out the best membrane gaming keyboards for something a little cheaper. If you're kitting out your whole setup, it's also worth taking a look at the best gaming mouse models I've tested so far.

Corsair seems to be having a good few months. Out of the dust left behind in the Vanguard Pro's sprint to the top of my best gaming keyboards list emerges a mechanical keyboard that finally blends a gaming-ready deck with the brand's Stream Deck functionality.

The Corsair Galleon 100 SD has a lofty price tag, though comparative Stream Deck functionality will cost you about $200 by itself (looking at the Stream Deck Plus) and the quality of the keyboard part of the equation stands up to the remaining $150. That is, however, presuming you need the dials and display. Problems with those numbers occur if you're just after the buttons themselves.

Nevertheless, this is a deck I'll genuinely be returning to in between testing periods. Smooth typing, excellent caps, and that whole suite of controls at my fingertips means this one's going to stay in my roster for some time. With a discount behind it, it's going to be a game-changer for many.

Design

Would you call the Corsair Galleon 100 SD a full sized gaming keyboard or a TKL one? I'm torn. Its form factor on the desk is going to feel like a full-width model, restricting mouse movement slightly. And yet the actual keyboard portion is a TKL design. This is a hybrid of sorts, Corsair continuing to experiment with layouts following the Vanguard Pro 96's squashed shape.

However you choose to see it, the Galleon looks pretty slick on the desk. The shining lights of the Stream Deck on the right, combined with that 'Mood Light' bare along the top and a collection of bold, vibrant RGB LEDs makes for an impressive showpiece.

The Stream Deck portion is fully baked in. Would it have been nice to have the option to swap it to the right-hand side for wider mouse sweeps? Maybe, but I'm just happy it's here in the first place.

You're paying $350 for this deck, and the build quality pulls its weight. While you're not getting the dense block of a Keychron model, the black aluminum chassis feels solid and premium and gasket mounting and sound dampening under the hood keep things echo-free under the fingertips.

There's a very slight wedge shape to the chassis itself, but it's far from enough elevation by itself. Two flip-out feet add extra height for a more comfortable experience, even if the included wrist rest feels just a little too high for me personally. It attaches magnetically and provides a cushioned position for the palms, but my hands feel like they're hanging just a little too far up the deck to feel truly nimble. I generally preferred using the Galleon without the included rest.

Keycaps

Thick PBT keycaps keep the typing experience firm and snappy, while those longer legends do a good job of keeping RGB backlighting uniform and consistent. I can only see one instance where those LEDs aren't making it across the full text, on the Enter key, elsewhere everything else looks super tight.

The caps themselves are curved nicely to provide extra precision support while still offering a satisfying grippy texture up top. That means no slipping, less chance of shine build up, and a tactile grainy feel under the fingertips. It's my preferred style of keycap, but those who like to keep things smooth may want to swap these toppers.

Switches

Under the hood we've got a full set of Corsair's MLX Pulse switches. I first took these purple snappers out for a spin in the ill-fated Corsair MAKR 75, and fell in love with them there. Without that FR4 plate in action there's a little less snap to the overall experience, but they're still smooth, thocky, and rattle-free.

With 45g of actuation force they're not the lightest on the market, but hold up particularly well for accuracy. A 2.0mm actuation distance avoids accidental presses as well. They're not for skating across the top of a deck, but they resist fatigue particularly well. All that, with a nice crisp auditory response - excellent.

The entire deck is also fully hot-swappable with three and five pin switches to boot.

If you've been following gaming keyboards closely over the last year you might notice some absences here. The Corsair Galleon 100 SD doesn't use magnetic switches, instead opting for a full mechanical existence. That means you're dropping some core gaming features like rapid trigger for faster repeat presses, customizable actuation points, and multi-step inputs. Considering this is already a $350 deck, though, there's very little room for Hall effect clackers in this price tag - even if Corsair's latest MGX V2 options are some of the best I've tested yet.

Software

The software is a sticking point for me, but I'm hoping it won't be in a few weeks' time. I've been testing the Corsair Galleon 100 SD with a beta version of the Corsair Web Hub and Firmware Tool. I haven't had a great experience with it straight off the bat.

The Web Hub refused to recognize the Galleon as a connected device until I updated the firmware. I couldn't update the firmware until the Web Hub recognized the keyboard. You see my conundrum.

Using a beta build of both allowed me to get in long enough to start a firmware update, at which point I lost connection again and the entire keyboard bricked itself.

I've been assured by Corsair that this is a rare occurrence and considering Web Hub has been running smoothly for all the other gadgets I've tested with it, I expect the issue comes down to pre-release software.

After all, with a full reboot I was able to connect and update the deck and have had a fairly smooth ride ever since. The Web Hub is still a little sticky, often refusing to save RGB lighting tweaks to the actual keyboard but it's got everything you need.

I'll be keeping a close eye, returning to the Galleon regularly, and will update here.

To set up the Stream Deck portion of the Galleon you'll need Elgato's dedicated software. This runs like a dream, dragging and dropping different functions and commands onto the deck to create profiles, pages, and presets galore. It was easily my favorite part of setting up this deck - I could spend hours building and tweaking different setups. You'll also have access to the massive supply of plugins via the marketplace as well.

Controls

This is where things get good again.

By now you know there's a full Stream Deck tacked onto the side of the Galleon, with 12 full-color buttons to play with, two control dials, and a 5-inch display sandwiched between them.

It's an unprecedented amount of control from a single keyboard, removing the need for static dedicated macro buttons, media playback, and system settings. If you do it on your PC, you can build a list of shortcuts for it.

I've got everything from a Spotify command center to all my usual work links and commands set up, alongside dedicated profiles for Planet Coaster, The Sims 4, and Baldur's Gate 3. Keeping all that right next to my keyboard makes for a far more streamlined experience compared to a separate device. I've used the Mountain DisplayPad for similar functions for some time now, but it's never been reachable enough to accommodate many of these controls. Sure, they're rudimentary for now (though you can buy dedicated profiles for a massive range of games that go into more depth), but they keep all my usual commands within closer reach.

The screen up top has space for four zones of control, ranging from swapping between profiles to changing volume to displaying the weather. There's not a lot out there for this setup just yet, so launch options are fairly limited. I'm hopeful more plugins and uses will come to light shortly, though. There's plenty of potential in this element.

Connection

The Corsair Galleon 100 SD does something I haven't seen in a long time. It uses two USB-C connections to hook up to separate USB-A ports on your PC, only to give one of them back to you via a passthrough hookup along the right edge. It's an odd setup, though perhaps helpful if you need a peripheral plugged in closer to your mouse hand than your rig will allow. Still, it's a little strange to keep two cables trailing across the desk.

The best wireless gaming keyboards have their place in portable setups, but they're generally only useful for keeping your setup clutter-free. If that's a priority, the $350 price tag for not one but two wires is going to sting. Still, the deck runs just fine in everyday life with only one cord connected.

If you're a particularly competitive player you'll also be glad to see an 8,000Hz polling rate in here. That's a feature only the top 1% will even notice, though.

Typing

There was a time when I would loathe to write up an article on a Corsair keyboard, but the brand has knuckled down on its build quality in the last couple of years and the Galleon 100 SD is free from any of the echo and ping I used to experience. This is a snappy, well-dampened typing experience with a smooth feel and just the right amount of resistance underneath each cap.

The Asus ROG Azoth is still going to give you a little more spring, there's slightly more depth to each press here making for a slightly heavier feel. It's also lacking a little of the richness you'll find in a more substantial chassis like the MAKR 75 or a Keychron deck. Still, it's satisfying to use and listen to, while remaining light on the fingers and tight in all its lovely mechanical parts.

Gaming

While Corsair has removed magnetic switches from the equation, the Galleon still has plenty in its arsenal for both casual and competitive players. On the fly macro recording, SOCD settings, and space for up to five onboard profiles (not counting the Stream Deck) keeps things up to pace with other mechanical options.

That extra control panel is the main draw here, though. My Planet Coaster building sessions are easier and faster than ever, and I'm only scratching the surface with my initial profile. There are far more in-game controls to explore across a whole range of titles that will make the Corsair Galleon 100 SD a formidable force whether you're going single-player, strategy, simulation, or competitive.

Switching between profiles is easy (I have mine set on a cycling roster via the control dial), buttons are responsive, actions are immediate, and setup is far easier than other similar options I've used. I'd feel the benefit of this extra panel even if I only ever used it as a launcher.

Of course, the benefits for streamers can't be denied either. After all, this is why the Stream Deck was invented in the first place. With all your controls in one place right next to your hands, tapping through different functions is far easier than reaching over to a dedicated device. That said, if you've already got a Deck on desk you won't find much new here to explore.

Should you buy the Corsair Galleon 100 SD?

There's no getting around it, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD is expensive. It's a great keyboard in its own right, though, and the Stream Deck is one of the most feature-rich and intuitive control pads on the market. That $349.99 MSRP means you'll need to really want both a keyboard and a Stream Deck separately, though. The higher price simply doesn't make sense if you weren't already in the market for a control panel or if you already have one on your desk.

The implementation here is closest to the Stream Deck + model, with its display, dials, and ten buttons. That's a gadget that's going to cost you $199.99 by itself, leaving $150 in the final price for a mechanical keyboard - easy enough if you're after a mid-ranger like the Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL or Keychron V6 Max. The typing experience and extra features in here do have both of those models beat, though.

There is far more room in that price if you were to drop the dials and go for the simplest of Stream Deck options. The Stream Deck Mk. 2 holds a $150 MSRP (but is more often found at around $130). That leaves you $200 to pick up a gaming keyboard at the same time, and with that cash you've got a few Hall effect options open to you. The Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid and NZXT Function Elite, for example, will get you more switch features with the same macropad functionality when bought alongside the cheaper controls.

That's where the value of the $349.99 Corsair Galleon 100 SD starts to fall a little short. Put simply, if you're not fussed about the screen and dials (and considering I found them to be a little under-utilized in everyday play at launch I wouldn't blame you), it makes more sense to opt for two separate devices.

The benefit of grabbing the all-in-one device is just that; your keypad, display, and control dials are right there. It's not a feature that should be overlooked - actually using these customizable clickers is far easier in this implementation, and I found myself more motivated to create, tweak, and hunt down the profiles and features I need as a result.

It's an expensive luxury, though, and one that might only make sense for the most discerning of streamers among us or those looking willing to invest in hitting their macros a little faster.

How I tested the Corsair Galleon 100 SD

I've been using the Corsair Galleon 100 SD for the last two weeks, swapping between another deck for some of that time. Alongside my Planet Coaster, The Sims, and Baldur's Gate 3 sessions, I've also run the deck in my usual competitive CS2 and Apex Legends testing and enjoyed my time in Clair Obscur Expedition 33 as well. For more information on how we test gaming keyboards, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

I'm hunting down plenty more of the best hot-swappable keyboards on the market, as well as the best membrane gaming keyboards for something a little cheaper. For more setup inspiration, check out the best gaming mouse models I've tested so far.

Razer has jumped on the web-tool bandwagon this week, releasing a beta for its Synapse Web customizer. Except it's been all but a smooth rollout.

The tool is currently compatible with three Razer Huntsman decks, including one of the best gaming keyboards on the web, the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini. Alongside the V3 Pro 8K and V3 Pro TKL 8K, the Huntsman should be fully configurable through your web browser. If it could load.

I dug out my Huntsman V3 Pro Mini to take the beta out for a test drive and was reassured when the browser spotted the keyboard immediately. Actually loading the configurator tool proved too much, though, and it actually cut communication with my Corsair wireless mouse as well.

That was my first clue that something wasn't quite right. For now, at least, it looks like the Synapse Web tool can only run when no other configurators are alive in the system tray. Quitting out of everything else granted me entry.

It's early days yet; Razer has plenty of time to get its Synapse Web tool right, and when it does, it will be a weight off its hardware's shoulders. This has always been a heavy, clunky piece of software, but at the same time, I generally find more features included compared to the rest of the market.

The brand tried to streamline efforts in recent times with Synapse 4, but the software still suffers from convoluted firmware update processes, strange crashes, and interference with other programs. I've managed to get Synapse Web running, and it's looking pretty sweet inside. It carries over the core functionality of the standalone software, but still has some fancy extras.

The Huntsman's analog switches are all supported by actuation and rapid trigger settings, as well as your standard RGB fare.

The move comes after years of competitors taking their dedicated configurators to the web. Corsair and Keychron are leading the way here, with the former's Web Hub offering a particularly expansive selection of tools for everything from the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 to the Sabre V2 Pro Ultralight.

While most programs don't hurt your CPU usage too much these days, they are annoying to keep on your system - and even harder to justify when they constantly hibernate in the system tray. Having multiple accessories by multiple brands compounds the problem. Hopefully, Razer's role in the solution is fixed sooner rather than later.

For now, you can test out Razer's Synapse Web tool beta at synapse.razer.com/dashboard.

• See all Razer keyboard deals at Amazon

I'm rounding up all the best Razer keyboards on the market, as well as the best wireless gaming keyboards and the best hot-swappable keyboards available.

Magnetic keyboards have surged over the last year, with Hall effect decks taking a prominent role in the gaming market for the first time in 2025. These adjustable switches first hit the scene way back in 2018, though, with Wooting's 60HE. Now, just as HE models are starting to hit their gaming stride, TMR technology is sneaking up behind it - and that first assault seems to be mounting at CES 2026.

Cherry has its own TMR deck on the showfloor this year, taking the lead from Keychron's Q16 and the Ducky One X last year. These certainly aren't the first devices to use Tunnel MagnetoResistance tech in their sensors, but TMR keyboards have taken a couple of years to truly start seeing mainstream gaming attention. Hall effect might have only just broken into the zeitgeist, but TMR isn't too far behind.

There's a reason these magnetic sensors could be behind some of the best gaming keyboards of 2026. You're getting all the same core customization features of more traditional Hall effect options, but with a stronger (therefore more accurate) magnetic pull and extra sensitivity in each keypress. They also can (not always) manage their power more efficiently, which means more opportunities for wireless gaming keyboards.

It's that last point that Cherry's jumped on.

The brand has announced its TMR keyboard at CES this week, the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR Wireless (that's going to be fun to get right in the review). It's a TKL deck with TMR sensors and an 8,000Hz wireless polling rate. Cherry MK Crystal switches can be adjusted in 0.01mm strokes, but the best is yet to come - they're dual hot-swap.

That means that (most of) the deck can revert back to mechanical clickers. In fact, this is the first time I've seen a magnetic keyboard offering true hot-swappability and it comes from Cherry of all places. I've been wondering why none of this brand's keyboards are swappable when switches were their bread and butter for so long. Now Cherry seems to be back in action.

It may well be another year before we see TMR tech from mainstream brands like Corsair, Logitech, and SteelSeries. After all, the first two brands only just started releasing Hall effect keyboards in 2025. However, the takeover is certainly starting to brew.

I'm also rounding up all the best hot-swappable keyboards and the best membrane gaming keyboards on the market. Or, take a look at the best gaming mouse models for more inspiration.

Corsair purchased Elgato eight years ago, but it's only just added that brand's biggest device to its own roster of gaming keyboards. Looking back, the Stream Deck has been languishing with untapped potential - until now.

The macropad, and all its custom plugins, has continued to thrive under Corsair's ownership, and now the brand is finally combining the Stream Deck's benefits with its own keyboards. The Galleon 100 SD has taken to the CES 2026 showfloor this week, a TKL mechanical keyboard with a 12-button Stream Deck baked into the right side.

That's the full functionality of a macropad next to your right hand, with full compatibility across the system's bountiful user-generated plugin library, and I can't wait to get it on my desk. After all, this is coming from the makers behind the best gaming keyboard I've tested so far.

On top of those extra clickers, you've also got a full-color display and two scroll dials for extra controls, which likens it more to the Elgato Stream Deck+. That's plenty of space for media information, notifications, and system vitals, all in a seemingly vibrant color display (though that's just going off press images).

I love me a control panel, but never really gelled with the idea of using one in-game. Reaching forward to the stack of buttons under my monitor never felt intuitive, and even bringing it closer to my main controls still felt a little awkward. I mostly use my macropad for system information, launching apps, toggling different settings, and switching hardware profiles.

With per-game controls directly on the board itself, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD has me excited in a way I haven't been for a keyboard in a little while.

For the Galleon to set sail, though, it needs to perform well as a keyboard. Corsair hasn't exactly sat at the top of my roster for its decks over the last few years, but I'm certainly optimistic this time around.

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 shot to the top of my recommendations late last year, fixing one of my biggest issues with the brand's decks as a whole. They've always been particularly echoey.

With a gasket-mounted design, six layers of sound dampening, and an aluminum chassis, the Corsair Galleon 100 SD is set up to cook. If you're particularly competitive, you'll also note that 8,000Hz polling rate - though that's largely unnecessary for most players.

Those up to date on more recent gaming keyboard developments will also notice that this is a full mechanical deck. Looking at that lofty $349.99 MSRP, this could well be a price tag play. Magnetic options have swelled in popularity over the last year and offer greater control over the way your keyboard responds, but they're still the more expensive option.

If Corsair has to sub those switches out to squeeze a whole Stream Deck in and avoid going into too-silly numbers (even $350 is still a big ask), I'm not too mad - even if the Vanguard did offer some of the best Hall effect clackers I've tested so far. As it stands, we've got MLX Pulse switches under the hood, a set that performed solidly in my Corsair MAKR 75 testing, and full hot-swappability.

The Corsair Galleon 100 SD is available on backorder now, with new keyboards set to ship towards the end of the month.

• See all Corsair keyboards at Amazon

I'm also rounding up all the best wireless gaming keyboards as well as the best hot-swappable keyboards on the market. For something a little cheaper, check out the best membrane gaming keyboards I've tested so far.

December seems to be a good month for gaming keyboards. Just last year my favorite deck for much of 2025 released, with the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 taking to the shelves for the first time in the holiday season. Now Corsair's pulling the same trick.

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 has just ascended to the top of my guide to the best gaming keyboards I've tested so far. It's a fully magnetic Hall effect deck with all the number pad and macro button controls you'd expect from a full-sized design, in a more compact 96% form factor. Throw in some of the best switches I've used so far, super textured PBT keycaps, and a soft, bouncy wrist rest and you've got yourself a winner.

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 is no cheap deck, $229.99 is a lot for a gaming keyboard. If you've been saving to invest in a high-end magnetic option for a while, though, those numbers won't look so outrageous, they're only slightly higher than the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3. At least that cost isn't as jaw-dropping as the $419.99 price tag on the Asus ROG Falcata.

It's absolutely worth it if you're looking to set yourself up with adjustable magnetic switches ahead of 2026, though. I wasn't blown away by the first generation of Corsair's MGX switches when I first tested them in the K70 Pro TKL earlier this year. The Vanguard uses the second generation, though, and they're second only to the super-premium ROG HFX V2s in the Falcata.

In short, they remain smooth and clacky like a mechanical option whereas most Hall effect keyboards I've tested so far feel a little woolly, with slightly too much resistance underneath each press to feel truly comfortable during longer sessions. Here you're getting the best of both worlds; a customizable experience that still retains the tactile charm of a mechanical deck.

That's before we even get into the form factor. 96% isn't a size we see too much of in the gaming keyboard world, but many players still want to keep their number pads in action. Again, the Vanguard does it all. While SteelSeries' TKL form factor removes a whole chunk of buttons and the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro packs everything but the kitchen sink (but doesn't leave much room for mouse swinging), Corsair had pinned itself in a perfect spot of balance.

It actually took me a moment to realize there was a number pad on here when I first got the Vanguard on the desk. From a quick look at its shape I just assumed it was a 75% model. Everything is squished in to keep that footprint as small as possible, which does take some getting used to. The arrow keys, for example, are a little awkwardly placed. However, I was able to confidently get to grips with the layout, even if I did still need to look down at those directional buttons.

Plus, you keep the additional controls of larger macro-heavy decks. The five customizable keys are lined up along the left hand side of the keyboard, slanted slightly away to avoid accidental presses. It's rare to find these extra clickers these days.

Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 vs SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3

So how exactly did Corsair knock SteelSeries off the top spot?

Essentially, the Vanguard Pro 96 does more than the Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 while still keeping its form factor slim and its price tag comparable.

All keys are fully magnetic with a smoother, lower resistance typing feel, whereas the Apex only uses its slightly heavier Hall effect clackers on its main alpha keys.

The Vanguard offers more control options via its number pad and dedicated macro buttons, neither of which are available on SteelSeries' competitor.

Both decks use high quality PBT keycaps, a wired connection (though a wireless Apex Pro is also available), and feature dedicated volume controls.

You also won't need to download any additional software to make the most of Corsair's fighter, it's configurable from a light web-based app. SteelSeries does win out on the screen front.

Both decks use an OLED panel in the top right corner, but Corsair's color option can only show images. SteelSeries defaults to black and white, but allows for notifications and system information as well.

I'm also rounding up all the best wireless gaming keyboards and the best hot-swappable keyboards of the year. Or, check out the best membrane keyboards for something a little cheaper.

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 isn't the brand's first Hall effect keyboard, but its switch upgrades and slick form factor show a real glow up from the K70 released earlier in the year. This is a 96% magnetic keyboard that puts customization front and center, all while keeping a fresh balance between functionality and compact design.

At a $229.99 / £209.99 MSRP it's going directly up against the best gaming keyboard I've tested so far, the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 and, honestly, it takes the lead. This is one of the best Hall effect keyboards on the market right now, and my first recommendation for the majority of players.

Design

This 96% form factor isn't common at all, essentially taking a full sized deck and squishing it all together. Its width is still a little longer than most TKL options, but doesn't take up the whole desk - all while still offering full number pad controls. There are a few keys missing here, but it's the spacing between those clackers that's been sacrificed. Everything is bunched together, shoving the arrow keys directly under the Enter and right Shift and cramming the number pad on top.

That takes a little getting used to, after two weeks of testing I still cast an eye down towards the keyboard when I need to hit a directional button. It is possible to re-learn, though, and considering the space you're saving it's a step I'm happy to take to keep this thing on my desk.

An aluminium case keeps everything feeling sturdy, with a matte black finish that blends nicely into a range of setups. There's also a black and white dual-tone option for those who want a little lift in their caps. Either way, you're getting a solid build with plenty of quality of life features built in.

A cable trail runs along the bottom of the chassis, along with those elevation feet. It allows for your detachable USB-C cord to run away from the keyboard in three directional, but I'd argue it's more of a faff to squeeze the wire in these chasms than its worth. The included magnetic wrist rest is a welcome addition, though, offering a firm plush landing spot for the palms, with a smooth leatherette finish. It's a small enhancement, but it's actually the best wrist rest I've used on a gaming keyboard so far.

There's also a full-color LCD display to play with, but it's so under-utilized it's a little maddening. This is a feature shared by a huge number of high-end keyboards, but models like the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 and Asus ROG Azoth are limited to a black and white display. Still, at least those keyboards actually use the screen. This one will only show you the images you add to it, no system specs, media information, or Discord integration here.

Keycaps

Corsair has redeemed itself after the K70 Pro TKL incident earlier this year. While that older deck shipped with PBT keycaps in the US, UK folk had to make do with some of the cheapest-feeling ABS clackers I've seen on a mainstream gaming deck in some time. All is right in the world now.

The keycaps on the Vanguard Pro 96 are thick, heavy PBT with a particularly textured surface and doubleshot legends. That's a winning combination personally, with plenty of grit to each cap offering greater precision and keeping things satisfyingly tactile. Those shinethrough legends are nicely uniform across the main alphas, through the Enter key does show some uneven lighting towards the edges.

Switches

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 is outfitted with the brand's new MGX V2 Hall effect switches, and they feel so so much better than the originals featured in the K70 Pro TKL. In fact, these magnetic switches are second only to the Asus ROG Falcata and its ROG HFX V2 clackers. They're not quite as smooth in their operation as Asus, but they're certainly far more mechanical-feeling than the likes of SteelSeries, Logitech, and previous Corsair magnetic releases. There's a satisfying thock to each keypress that's often lost with these more adjustable decks, making both typing and gaming more comfortable and satisfying.

The switches themselves allow for all your usual Hall effect tricks. Rapid trigger, SOCD controls, and adjustable actuation points (from 0.1mm to 4mm) are all present and accounted for. The first also benefits from customizable sensitivity and the option to enable continuous rapid trigger as well. Two-step actuation is also available for more complex macro setups, though it's not quite hitting the four-step heights of the Falcata or Glorious GMMK 3 Pro HE.

Software

All those tools are run through Corsair's lighter Web Hub program. Like many gaming keyboards, the Vanguard Pro 96 steps away from cumbersome programs and uses a web-based tool for all its configuration tools. You've got everything you need in here, from complicated multi-step macros to RGB settings, all laid out in a series of menus along the left side of the screen.

Once connected, the browser remembers your keyboard quickly for returning settings tweaks and can also flash new firmware as well.

Setting everything from your everyday keybindings to adjusting switch actuation points is easily and simple, though lacks some of the quality of life features competitors use in their own downloadable programs. Razer, for example, includes a visualization of just how far you're actually pushing each key down when setting multiple actuations for a particularly easy setup process across its Huntsman V3 Pro Mini analog deck.

Controls

We've got a set of comfortable keys, a sturdy build quality, super slick Hall effect switches, and plenty of extra quality of life design features already in the bank, but Corsair keeps rolling on. The Vanguard Pro 96 also benefits from a plethora of additional controls that make sure all those boxes are ticked. First up you've got that control dial in the top right corner. Configurable to everything from volume control to playback, scrolling, application switching, and zoom, with your own custom dial modes available, it's a slick addition that goes beyond offerings by its competitors.

Then there are five dedicated macro buttons running down the left panel of the keyboard itself. That's a lot of extra clickers to squeeze into a keyboard with this more compact footprint, but they're angled beautifully down the side to avoid feeling clunky (or accidentally being hit). It's this kind of extra control that makes the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro the best full-sized deck I've tested yet, but Corsair's found a way to do it all without taking over your desk.

Connection

Like most Hall effect keyboards, this is a fully wired affair but considering the full-sized form factor and excellent wrist rest it's unlikely you're after anything too portable. The included USB-C cable feels sturdy, and can be detached and swapped out if need be. It also unlocks a speedy 8,000Hz polling rate to boot. That's not going to be a game-changer for most players, but esports hopefuls should take note. If you're after one of the best wireless gaming keyboards but still want those magnetic clackers, the Falcata is your top shelf option and the Glorious GMMK 3 Pro HE is slightly cheaper.

Typing

Those new generation magnetic switches and super tactile keycaps work in tandem with four layers of sound dampening to provide a fantastic typing experience, second only to the $420 Asus ROG Falcata in my testing. Everything feels and sounds rich and robust, but there's an excellent spring to each keypress that maintains the energy and spring you'll need for particularly fast movement across the deck.

There's a little resistance persisting underneath each keypress, but it's far crisper than that of the Corsair K70 Pro TKL. Each press has a mechanical-feeling clack to it that you rarely find in magnetic keyboards, and the result is a best-of-both-worlds approach to tactility and personalization. Throw that plush wrist rest into the battlefield and I was able to type all day without feeling a hint of fatigue. The only issue I ran into was reliably hitting those squished arrow buttons.

My average WPM speed over the last few years of keyboard tests currently sits at 95WPM, with my average accuracy sitting at 95.5%. I scored slightly higher on pure speed with the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 at the helm (96WPM), though I dropped a tiny bit off that accuracy score (95%).

Gaming

Of course, that satisfying key feel runs through to gaming as well, with the additional benefit of those super adjustable switches. Doom: The Dark Ages felt snappy and responsive, even in more lumbering Atlan chapters, while competitive endeavors held up particularly well. Setting a higher actuation point for Apex Legends always feels like a hack and continues to perform well in the Vanguard, while setting my regular accidental hits to a super deep actuation made for excellent precision.

The presence of those additional macro buttons even made slower simulation games like Planet Coaster more enjoyable, mapping frequent object changes to individual macro buttons for a speedier interface overall.

Should you buy the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96?

If you're upgrading your gaming keyboard and want all the latest features in a macro-heavy control panel that still keeps all your controls at your fingertips without taking up the whole desk, the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 should absolutely be on your radar. All of these keys are adjustable, unlike the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3, and you're getting a wad of extra controls without sacrificing mouse space, unlike the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro. While it doesn't quite hit the typing feel of the Asus ROG Falcata or Asus ROG Azoth, and drops the wireless connectivity from both, the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 is as close to perfect as you're going to get for $229.99 / £209.99.

How I tested the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96

I used the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 for two weeks, running the keyboard across all my daily work and play. In that time I primarily tested in Apex Legends and Doom: The Dark Ages, while also running Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, The Outer Worlds 3, and Planet Coaster. I also ran through my usual speed benchmarks in Typing Speed Test. For more information on how we test gaming keyboards, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

I've also been busy hunting down all the best hot-swappable keyboards and the best membrane keyboards on the market. If you're kitting out your whole setup, though, you can always check out the best gaming mouse models I've tested so far.

Wooting is the brand most often credited with bringing magnetic Hall effect keyboards to the market for the first time, but it took until 2025 for mainstream gaming brands to finally get a foot on the bandwagon.

This year Asus, Corsair, Keychron, and Logitech all debuted their Hall effect gaming keyboards, and as the year progressed I started noticing something. They were getting much better, much faster.

The first magnetic keyboard I used was the Endgame Gear KB65HE early last year. It's heavy, stiff, and stuffy, but at the time it was one of the best gaming keyboards I had had my hands on. Those adjustable switches opened up a whole new world of personalization and speed-focused features, and I was happy to forgive the tough typing experience to keep them on my desk.

Skip forward to the Asus ROG Falcata released mid way through 2025, and the difference is night and day. The Falcata is an almost ludicrously expensive deck, clocking in at $419.99, but it solved the biggest issue in Hall effect keyboards for me. That typing experience.

Magnetic switches naturally have a higher level of resistance behind them compared to more clacky mechanical options, and I felt it in the fingers throughout most of the year. Going back to some of 2025's earlier releases, and it's clear how far we've come in just a few months.

The SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL feels cumbersome in comparison to the Falcata, and the Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid is actively fighting back against my hands when I use them side by side.

That's the price of a Hall effect keyboard that feels like it uses mechanical clickers, I thought. Then the $229.99 Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 landed on my desk. I haven't finished reviewing this bad boy just yet, but it's already clear that some leaps have been made in HE tech even in the last year. The Corsair K70 Pro TKL I tested back in April used the brand's original MGX Hyperdrive switches, whereas we have the V2 under the hood of the Vanguard. The difference is night and day, and that's just with a few months between them.

Whereas the K70 feels soft and mushy, there's a definite clack to these clickers, and a more mechanical sound profile overall. There's still a small increase in resistance compared to a smoother traditional option, but that fatigue isn't setting in - it's far closer to a luxury mech deck than it is the Endgame Gear I started this journey with.

2025 feels like a learning curve for Hall effect gaming keyboards. Most gaming brands launched their first magnetic decks this year, and most of them learned from the experience. Considering the improvement I'm seeing from more recent releases, I'm excited to see how 2026 pans out.

After all, there are still drawbacks that technology needs to catch up to, outside of the core feel. Hall effect switches are far more power hungry, so you'll find very few of the best wireless gaming keyboards employing them (and the ones that do exist are far more expensive).

The software to make those adjustments is also hit and miss. Logitech's G Hub is the best I've used so far, but with finer controls comes the threat of a software mess that runs with a serious learning curve. Hot-swappability remains an issue as well. Many claim their support for switch-swaps, but only among a small number of clackers. If next year throws us cheaper wireless options with a smoother feel and better software support, I'll be a very happy camper. If those prices start to trend closer to $150 I'll start the campfire myself.

• See all gaming keyboards at Amazon

After something a little more traditional? You'll find all the best hot-swappable keyboards I've tested so far, but I'm also rounding up all the best membrane keyboards for something a little cheaper as well.

Corsair is celebrating the fifth anniversary of Cyberpunk 2077 this week, with an Arasaka-themed drop of some of its best gaming tech. The red, black, and gray aesthetics of these gadgets is particularly slick, with iconography spanning the simple logo through to the Mantis Blade itself.

We're talking one of my favorite gaming keyboards, the best ambidextrous gaming mouse I've tested to date, and a mouse pad that stretches all the way across your setup. Not only that, but die-hard fans can grab the full collection for nearly $50 off at Corsair to boot.

Most of these gadgets are on back order at the time of writing, with shipping dates spreading from December 11 to 19. That means you've still got some time to get in there before the holiday shipping cut-off, but you'll need to move fast if you're buying for the Cyberpunk superfan in your life.

Corsair K65 Plus Wireless

This is my favorite piece in the collection. I praised the Corsair K65 Plus Wireless for its excellent value at launch, you're not just grabbing a Cyberpunk special edition here - it's a surprisingly solid hot-swappable mechanical keyboard. I say surprisingly, because Corsair hasn't always impressed me with its sound dampening or typing feel. This runs like a much cheaper Asus ROG Azoth, though, with a smooth feel, that classic Corsair speed, and a whole bunch of extra controls.

The new Arasaka edition kits out the K65 Plus Wireless in a jet black case, with light gray and red accents across the keys and the megacorp's icon on the dedicated volume scroller.

Corsair M75 Wireless

That black and red color scheme continues through to the Corsair M75 Wireless, with the ambidextrous gaming mouse getting that Arasaka stamp of approval on its main back panel and complimentary red side buttons to complete the look. This isn't the most detailed of special editions, but if you're looking for a nod to your favorite game it still speaks volumes.

This is also one of the best gaming mouse models on the market, especially if you're left-handed. Its ambidextrous design uses swappable side buttons so you have full control no matter which grabber you prefer, and with a 210 hour battery life, 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connection, and super slick sensor it holds up under the hood as well.

Corsair MM300 2XL

If you want to spend as little as possible while still repping Arsaka, the Corsair MM300 2XL is the way to go. I've been using a desk mat like this for a little while now, and not only does it keep mouse movements smooth and speedy, but it also provides a little extra dampening to a keyboard as well.

The Arasaka special edition features the Mantis Blade in full blueprint design and follows the same red, black, and gray color scheme of the rest of the collection.

• See all special editions at Corsair
• See The Witcher 10th Anniversary Collection at Corsair
• See the Doom: The Dark Ages Collection at Corsair

We've also had our hands on Razer's Gengar Collection this week, but this Hatsune Miku setup is actually on sale right now as well.

Upgrading a keyboard can get expensive fast. If you look into the worlds of artisan keycaps, new switch plates, custom mods, and high-end switches, a $20 keyboard can quickly turn into a $200 job. That's why I've spent the last three months of my life road testing the cheapest PBT keycap sets I could find.

You're still getting quality here; PBT is a thicker, more durable plastic than the ABS sets you'll find on budget decks. However, even the best gaming keyboards sometimes skimp out on the caps - and grabbing a fresh set can completely change the way your deck looks and feels.

There are five brands on the test bench today; Epomaker, Keychron, Glorious, Ghost Judge, and Ducky. All have keycap sets readily available for less than $50 from major retailers, all offering sturdy PBT build qualities. I'll cut to the chase, Epomaker is your best bet overall.

However, the others still have their benefits - you'll find all my notes from my journey into the world of the best PBT keycap sets just below.

The quick list

1. Epomaker | Available at Amazon
2. Keychron | Available at Amazon
3. Glorious | Available at Amazon
4. Ghost Judge | Available at Amazon
5. Ducky | Available at Amazon

1. Epomaker

I took the Epomaker Glintrix PBT set out for a spin and was immediately smitten. This is the deepest feel to all the keycaps in my testing pool, with the most resistance and richest snap to each keypress. That makes for a super precise and satisfying typing experience, and everything still looks fantastic up top.

Shinethrough caps let your RGBs do their thing, but switching those LEDs off also leaves a nicely elegant effect with these bordered legends and light gray accents. The white of this set isn't quite as crisp as others, but its creamier aesthetic works particularly well instead. I also tested a darker blue set and was impressed with the uniformity and boldness of color.

Epomaker has a range of keycap sets available, and easily picked up from a range of different retailers, with Cherry profile keys, doubleshot legends, and enough caps to suit both ISO and ANSI layouts all the way up to a full sized deck. It's also one of the cheaper options in my list, despite offering the best typing experience overall.

2. Keychron

Keychron generally runs in an OSA profile, as well as OEM, XDA and low profile. ISO layouts are also accounted for.

This set offered me one of the easiest installation processes of the bunch, with a neatly organized blister pack and all the keys I needed for a full-sized ANSI deck (and more). Once everything's on the deck, Keychron's caps feel a little more slippery than the more textured offerings by Razer and X, and I can see why some are reporting shine after extended use here. They're not exactly the most tactile caps, but they're very well made.

A generous thickness makes for a sturdy feel with a soft sound profile. There's a relatively high-pitched clack when returning to full height here, but still a deeper key sound underneath.

I didn't pick up a shine-through set, very few of Keychron's PBT offerings use these legends. Instead, everything is printed in jet black on top of clean, white toppers.

Keychron's uneven legend weight still persists here, though, with some letters in longer caps looking more bold than others. Other legends are also specific to Keychron's own keyboard layouts, so you might need to get creative if adding them to another brand's buttons.

3. Glorious

Glorious has a massive range of Cherry profile PBT keycaps that ship with keys for both ANSI and ISO layouts. This collection is ever-growing across a series of different block colors and gradient designs as well, with a wealth of options to choose from. I got my hands on a simple set of white caps, as well as the brand's Celestial Ice design.

These aren't doubleshot, instead opting for a Dye Sublimated legend process. That means they'll be a little less durable in the longer term and won't shine your LEDs through. However, the actual lettering is particularly crisp, with uniform printing and a clean design overall.

The caps themselves are Cherry profile, so you're in for a medium height with a nice deep curve to the center of the cap. That makes for great positioning and accuracy, though the plastic here feels a little thinner compared to Keychron and Razer. RGB lighting shows through the lighter caps easily, creating a slightly messier effect than I would have liked.

Overall, the feel is much smoother and softer than Keychron's, though. While you do lose that snap I loved so much on thicker caps, each key slides down its stem like butter and there's a satisfying amount of texture to the topper as well. It may feel like a slightly weaker experience if you're going all-in on that snap sound, especially if you're pairing it with a low-resistance switch.

Some newer and more limited edition releases can climb the price ladder up to $70, but more standard sets will keep you closer to $30. All kits are sold to cater all the way up to full-size keyboards.

4. Ghost Judge

The first thing I noticed about my Ghost Judge keycap set was that these are no white caps. Rather than the stark white pictured above, the Apollo colorway I ordered arrives with a dusky blue highlight on the alphas. They actually photograph a little whiter above, but you can see what I mean better in the packaging image. There's some discrepancy in what you actually get from this slightly more expensive PBT keycap brand then.

Legends feel a little more slapdash than other brands as well. The main keys are chunky, the number and function row are skinny, and there's a little blurriness around longer text.

Looks aside, though, these caps feel great. They're strong, sturdy, and have a nice click to each push. The texture is a little rougher than Ducky and Keychron, sitting more inline with Glorious's caps, but with a slightly denser feel overall. That makes for a crisp, satisfying snap with plenty of depth to the sound. It's second on

Application is also easy, with a TKL layout all inline in the packaging, and additional color accents and ISO layout options included as well.

5. Ducky

Ducky mostly trades in Cherry profile keycap sets, but only has a few on sale at any one time. I had the Fallout set in for testing, and was surprised by the vibrancy of the printing on here. From the images everything looks a little faded, but as I've learned with this brand's keyboards it doesn't go easy on color.

Expect vibrant caps and bold coloring whichever set you choose, with a slightly softer-than-usual material. I'm not a massive fan of the slippery toppers here, preferring a slight grain found in other sets. I found myself sliding around a little more than usual here. The range is a little more limited than its competitors, so you'll need to grab them on a good day.

Caps come in packs of 132, with provisions for both ANSI and ISO layouts. On my deck, though, that meant sacrificing a yellow right side, with no pipe key included in the set's yellow accent. Still, they're sturdy, thick, and a little deeper in feel and sound compared to Glorious.

Just a note for RGB fans, the legends I'm testing aren't shinethrough.

How I tested PBT keycaps

I used each PBT keycap set on the same Glorious GMMK 3 full-sized keyboard for a period of two weeks. That means each set was put to work over the same daily work and play, while seated on the same switches, in the same chassis. I'm typing all day every day so they took a beating, all under my watchful eye hunting down any signs of glossing or shine.

How to choose PBT keycaps

There are a few things you might need to know before you head to checkout. Some keycap sets (though only a few) will only cater to either ANSI or ISO layouts, and some may even only offer enough keys for a particular layout (60%, 65%, 75%, TKL). Your best bet is to grab a keycap set that includes caps for both regions to be on the safe side, while also including enough toppers for a full sized deck.

There are also a number of different profiles (the shape of the cap itself) floating around. While most cheaper PBT keycaps sets stick to Cherry for its wide compatibility, some - like Keychron - stick to a more curved OEM profile. The main thing you need to look out for from a shape perspective is the stem.

If you have switches with a Cherry MX stem (a cross at the top), you'll be sorted for the widest range of compatible keycaps. Things get a little more complicated if your switches have a box stem (a literal box at the top of the switch).

Once the housekeeping is done, it's all down to personal choice. There's a massive number of caps out there all catering to different aesthetic tastes and textural preferences. Just note that not all of them support RGB shinethrough on their legends, so if you're using your keyboard in a darker environment you may want to prioritize this feature.

• See all PBT keycaps at Amazon
• See all ABS keycaps at Amazon

I'm also rounding up all the best hot-swappable keyboards for more customization inspiration. Or, take a look at the best wireless gaming keyboards and best membrane keyboards for a whole new deck.

Cheaper Amazon brands are tempting. They offer the world for ludicrously low prices, promising everything we’ve been taught to avoid - an offer that looks too good to be true. That’s what I thought I was buying when, for science purposes, I added the Newmen GM326 to my cart a few months ago. I was looking to build a custom keyboard for a friend and needed a budget base to work off. Instead, this super cheap deck accidentally became one of the best gaming keyboards I've tested.

While pricing can fluctuate all the way from $18 to $33, it’s most commonly found at around $26 - even at the top of its price range, though, the value for money on offer is excellent. Right now, it's on sale for $21.99 at Amazon. This is a fully hot-swappable keyboard with sturdy-feeling ABS keycaps, surprisingly satisfying switches, and even a dedicated volume control dial. Alternatives from budget brands like Redragon often come in at $65 for a similar feature set.

Should you buy the Newmen GM326?

I've just landed the Newmen GM326 in second position on my guide to the top gaming keyboards of the year. It's a budget pick for those looking to spend as little as possible while still getting that super satisfying mechanical feel.

It's difficult not to compare it to another budget-friendly gaming keyboard I've been testing recently. The Glorious GMBK 75% is double the price at $59.99, but swaps those mechanical switches for a membrane set. That means heavy, clunky typing, even if you're saving a few gaming-specific features like bolder RGBs and more dedicated controls.

I said it in my review then, and I'll say it again now. The era of cheap membrane keyboards has come to an end. Now that mechanical options are hitting these kinds of price lows (and still feeling like more premium options did only a few years ago), I can't see myself recommending another rubber dome deck instead.

Of course, if you're after one of the best wireless gaming keyboards to keep that desk space clear or travel easier, you'll need to move further up the price scale. This is still a fully hot-swappable deck, though, with plenty that punches well above its price.

• See today's Black Friday gaming keyboard deals at Amazon
• Newmen GM326 | $25.99 $21.99 at Amazon
• Glorious GMBK 75% | $59.99 at Amazon

There are plenty more Black Friday gaming deals to prepare for this year, but if you're after something console-shaped check out the Black Friday PS5 deals and Black Friday Nintendo Switch deals we've found so far.

The best gaming keyboard I've tested in 2026 is the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96, a Hall effect deck that beats the price of Asus's (arguably better feeling) devices while still offering an excellent all-round experience. The Vanguard offers up some of the more comfortable magnetic switches I've tested so far, but does so in a compact 96% form factor that still packs the speed, macro functionality, and adjustability of top decks.

There are plenty more categories up for grabs. After all, this is a $200+ option. If you're after something more budget friendly, the Newmen GM326 is still your best bet, while the Asus ROG Azoth is your go-to wireless mechanical option.

I've had my fingertips on all the best gaming keyboards of 2026, and years before that. You'll find all my favorites just below.

The quick list

The best gaming keyboard overall

Every now and then I come across a gaming keyboard that just ticks all the boxes. It happened with the Asus ROG Azoth, then more boxes were added. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 kept everything checked off last year, and now Corsair has stepped in to add even more to the experience.

This is a 96% Hall effect magnetic gaming keyboard with a slightly squished compact form factor, plenty of additional controls, and a super comfortable typing and gaming experience.

The 96% design is more unusual, but allows for a full number pad layout without sacrificing desk space. There's even room for five dedicated macro buttons down the left hand side. You're not exactly getting the macro support of the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro below, but we're certainly close and you don't have to give up any mouse swipes.

A set of the second nicest feeling magnetic switches under each PBT keycap tops it all off. They're not quite as clacky as the Asus ROG Falcata's, but that's a $400+ gaming keyboard. If you're after a more realistic saving goal, this is easily my first recommendation.

The only problem? The full color OLED display in the top right corner has bags of potential (SteelSeries, Razer, and Asus all use these screens but they're often limited to black and white). Unfortunately, though, Corsair doesn't actually utilize this screen to the extent its competitors do. There's no system messages, app integrations, or media information here - it's essentially a digital photo frame.

Aside from that, though, you're getting a gaming keyboard that does everything without sacrificing as much as other models.

Read more: Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 review

Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 vs. The Competition

The best budget gaming keyboard

For a long time, those seeking the best budget gaming keyboards had to settle for membrane switches. Nowadays, mechanical clackers are within reach of all. Well that was the idea, anyway. In reality a lot of budget mechanical keyboards are riddled with echo, ping, dodgy switches, and cheap-feeling keycaps. Not the Newmen GM326.

This is one of the cheapest gaming keyboards on the shelves right now, rarely jumping above $30 / £30 and more often found at between $20 and $25 / £20 - £25. It surprised me in testing, though.

This is a solid deck, yes it's a cheaper plastic case that's much lighter than more premium options, but it's still put together well and with enough density that there's no rattle to any of the switches under the hood. That's surprising considering options from Corsair and Razer that can sit at three times this price still suffer from loud echoes.

You've got a full 75% deck of hot-swappable switches here, with a clean PCB and an easy removal process. That's not to mention the dedicated volume dial in the top right corner - an additional rarity compared to options from Redragon and more.

The RGB lighting isn't as vibrant or customizable as a more expensive deck, and you'll be relying on a cheaper rubber cable to stay connected, but this is all still excellent value for money. Software is also nowhere to be found (well, it is, but my Chrome refuses to download it or even open the website). I would prefer to sacrifice all that, though, to get a keyboard that feels this good to use at this price.

The Glorious GMBK 75% is your next alternative for a budget deck and, while it comes from a more well-known brand, offers better RGB lighting, and a slightly thicker chassis design, its membrane switches are a serious step backwards compared to the smooth, speedy response of these clackers.

Read more: Newmen GM326 review

The best wireless gaming keyboard

The Asus ROG Azoth is the best wireless gaming keyboard I've had on the GamesRadar desk so far. Between a silky smooth typing experience, hot-swappable switches, speedy response times, and plenty of premium extras, you're covered for both gaming and everyday productivity in style here.

In fact, this deck used to be the best gaming keyboard overall, until Hall effect switches started sweeping the market. If you're not interested in the extra customization options of a magnetic switch, this is absolutely where I'd be looking.

There is a newer kid on the block, but after running the Asus ROG Azoth X I'd still stick with the OG. The new model is very similar, though swaps your aesthetics for a new space-age design. It's also considerably more expensive, without doing much to further the Azoth's core experience.

Asus has taken its inspiration from the custom keyboard market, building an off-the-shelf 75% deck with three layers of sound dampening foam in its gasket mounted chassis. This is a path more recently taken by Corsair. The difference here is Asus isn't selling you a 'DIY' kit that you actually have to configure all in one go and pay nearly $400 for. The ROG Azoth gives you the luxury typing feel and hot-swappability of the Corsair MAKR 75 for far less cash.

Hot-swappable switches, a sturdy wireless connection, OLED panel with multi-functional clicker, and grippy PBT keys? There's little the ROG Azoth doesn't pack into its smaller form factor. This is an impressive spec sheet for those willing to invest in a keyboard with both form and functionality - though there are no dedicated macro keys. Its battery is also best-in-class, offering up to 2,000 hours with RGB lighting off. It's this battery boost that keeps the Asus ROG Strix Morph 96 Wireless at bay. With a similarly springy typing feel, this 2.4GHz / Bluetooth deck is threatening the Azoth with a cheaper price point - its charge time can't quite compete, though.

Here, every keystroke has a soft landing with no reverb around the main body (thanks to the pre-lubed stabilizers), but the NX switches under the hood also offer a satisfying clack to each silky smooth press. Pair that with a speedy debounce and nippy response times and you've got yourself a fast deck with all the comfort of an enthusiast level set of keys.

Read more: Asus ROG Azoth review

The best Hall effect gaming keyboard

The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE sits right next to its ancestor on this list, but while its drop in battery life keeps it from the top wireless spot its ROG HFX V2 magnetic switches and lower price tag than the Asus ROG Falcata puts it in prime position as the best Hall effect keyboard I've tested so far.

Let me get one thing straight, though.

The vast majority of players will get on much better with the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96's price point - it's the best gaming keyboard overall for a reason. However, the Azoth manages to pitch its typing feel significantly higher than Corsair's, with incredibly smooth switches, a fantastic energy to each keypress, and just the right amount of resistance under the hands. It's still going to set you back more than $300, though.

If you're going all-out on the best magnetic switches I've tested so far, that's an MSRP that can't be avoided. Luckily, there's plenty more in here to investigate.

The onboard OLED display does a far better job of actually... well.. doing anything, compared to the Vanguard. While Corsair's seems to be a fancy picture frame, the controls and information offered on this screen can perform a variety of functions - most importantly, though, it offers an easy onboard route to adjusting those actuation points without having to set foot in a piece of software. That's great for on-the-fly adjustments.

You're also grabbing a wireless connection here - a rarity among magnetic decks due to their increased power demands. While the Azoth 96 HE isn't going to topple its grandfather's battery life, it's still a nice benefit for those keeping their setups clutter-free.

Ultimately, this is a gaming keyboard for those who already know they're investing in adjustable switches for the long term. If you want the best of the best this is it - but there is better value elsewhere.

Read more: Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE review

The best low-profile gaming keyboard

The Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile is a fantastic gaming keyboard in its own right, but its super satisfying typing experience and unique media control scheme make it a standout in today's market.

Let's compare it to the more recently released low profile gaming keyboards. The Logitech G515 Rapid TKL does introduce adjustable switch actuation points, but on this shorter form factor they're not quite as potent in real world use. You also sacrifice the buttery smooth typing experience (seriously the Falchion is like writing on snow) and dedicated media controls.

The Razer BlackWidow V4 Low Profile is another 2025 release that fails to live up to the Falchion's standards. It's considerably more expensive and does win on battery life overall, but has a heavier typing experience with more echo under the keys.

I've had my hands on several other low profile gaming keyboards over the course of the years, and the Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile beats them all. It's a compact 65% deck that still manages to keep dedicated media controls intact. The Falchion packs a small touch-sensitive slider along its top panel that can be configured for anything from scrolling to playback.

That's a solid feature in itself, but combine it with Mac OS support (and associated printed legends), two layers of sound dampening foam under the main chassis, and on the fly macro recording and you've got a full house.

The typing experience here is absolutely fantastic, with those softer keycaps playing into the lightweight switches particularly well. Those layers of foam create a nicely muted soundscape to each keypress, avoiding the clack of traditional gaming keyboards while still providing a satisfying auditory response. The size of the shift key did get in the way of accuracy a little here. It's a considerably stubby implementation and, in combination with the sensitive switches and low profile keycaps, we were regularly hitting caps lock instead. That's only going to be a problem if you rely on these keys for more complex bindings, though.

Read more: Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile review

The best 60% gaming keyboard

The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini has beaten the Corsair K70 Pro Mini Wireless to become the best 60% gaming keyboard I've tested so far. Put simply, it comes in at the same price, offers far more flexibility in its features, and feels much nicer under the fingertips. It's not without its setbacks, with an echoey chassis and some whining LEDs, but if you're going for speed, customization, and versatility it's a must-see.

I tested the newer white version of the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini, but there's a more standard black model available as well. Razer has also abandoned the chunky form factor of previous Huntsman entries, instead opting for a slim chassis and low bezels.

Of course, there's a downside to that sleek design. In gaming and everyday use, it sounds like there's no padding inside whatsoever. That means keys can rattle and echo across the deck, feeling slightly harsh in their bottom-out and making a hell of a racket.

However, it does benefit from Razer's Analog switches. That means you're still getting adjustable actuation points, rapid trigger, and dual-step actuation (which the brand ingeniously uses to still keep your arrow buttons a tap away). It also opens you up to a feature that I've only seen on this line of gaming keyboards.

With the tap of a button in Synapse, the WASD keys can be instantly transformed into more of a thumbstick-level of control. Rather than simply turning on and off, the pressure you apply to these keys will determine the speed you move in any direction. That makes creeping up on unsuspecting guards or finessing your racing lines far easier. Corsair does keep one card in its pocket, though only the top 1% of competitive players will notice, the Huntsman can only poll at 1,000Hz, whereas the K70 Pro Mini Wireless can go up to 8,000Hz.

While a little noisy, the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini feels fantastic in both single-player and competitive endeavors. These analog switches don't feel like Hall effect clickers, which often carry a little more tension underneath, but they're slightly more restrictive than a simple mechanical bottom-out. Overall, the typing experience isn't comparable to that of the Asus ROG Azoth or SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL featured further up this list, but the extra features certainly keep gameplay performance fresh.

Read more: Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini review

The best full-sized gaming keyboard

Yes the Corsair Galleon 100 SD is expensive, but those looking to build an entire gaming / content creation / productivity control panel from one deck should certainly be investigating this gem. The actual keyboard part takes up 75% of the deck, with the rest devoted to a full Stream Deck system, complete with LED buttons, a display panel, and two dials. That's the highest number of additional controls you'll find on any gaming keyboard, with the typing experience to back it up as well.

To put this deck in its simplest terms, I had an absolute blast testing it. From productivity-focused macro sets to per-game command keys, the Stream Deck portion is everything I hoped it would be. The display portion is still waiting for plugins that can truly put it to work, but otherwise you've got access to the full Elgato marketplace here.

That's all easily configured from the Stream Deck software, with Corsair's lightweight Web Hub offering your regular keyboard customization options. I did experience a few update issues with the beta build, however.

A mechanical build makes for a super satisfying typing experience, with excellent sound dampening (something Corsair has improved upon greatly in the last year or so). It's not quite as luxurious under the fingertips as the Asus ROG Azoth or Corsair MAKR 75, but it's light, fast, and nicely textured.

Those mechanical switches may pose a value problem for some players, though. Considering this $349 MSRP is higher than most magnetic keyboards, anyone after additional customization in the way those switches work will be better off picking up a cheaper Hall effect deck and a Stream Deck separately for the full experience.

The Galleon 100 SD has replaced the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro as the best full-sized gaming keyboard I've had my hands on so far, and it's largely down to that Stream Deck integration. You won't find this flexibility in additional controls anywhere else and, while it's certainly pricey, those extra features are nicely supported by a crisp typing experience.

Read more: Corsair Galleon 100 SD review

How I test gaming keyboards

Every keyboard that takes up residency on my desk goes through a series of tests to see exactly how it ranks among the best decks on the market. I check everything from the n-key rollover to the keyboard's scan rate to make sure all features are as described, but I also put each set of keys through their paces through a series of genres and titles. I test response times, debounce, switch speeds, ease of macro use, travel, weight of switches, and polling rate using faster first person shooter and action titles as well as strategy, simulation, platformer, and racing genres as well.

I also pay close attention to how well the form factor lends itself to the useability and speed of each device. That means I'm always judging whether the build materials are solid and watching out for flex, keycap wobble, and inconsistent or unreliable switches. I use each model for a minimum of two weeks at a time, bringing them into my daily life for work and play - so I can gather an early idea of whether any scuffs or scratches will appear from standard everyday use.

Crucially, I keep these keyboards in my rotation far beyond the publication of my final review - which means I can watch out for longer-term durability concerns and update my findings as well.

My testing also covers those all-important switches. I check how well the actuation feel, travel distance, and speed comply with the overall design and intended use-case of the keyboard itself. I also fully strip and rebuild any hot-swappable keyboards that I review as well.

At the end of my testing, I make an assessment not just on performance, but also concerning the overall value of the product itself. That means I measure all of my findings against the price point and competing models within that bracket as well.

For more information on how we make our recommendations, take a look at the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy. You'll also find more details on how we test gaming keyboards specifically as well.

Also tested

How to choose a gaming keyboard

The gaming keyboard market is massive, and there are plenty of different models out there all offering a slightly different experience. Finding the right one for you can be tricky - especially if this is your first deck. However, there are a few key features that you can narrow down to in order to make sure you're getting the best experience for your playstyle. From size to switches, connections to caps, gaming keyboards are made up of a number of different elements - and each one has an impact on how you interact with your games.

Connection

The first thing you'll likely want to decide on is your connection. A wireless gaming keyboard is better for travel and keeps your desk clutter-free. But you can save a considerable amount of cash if you just attach that little cable. Unlike the world of gaming mice, the presence of that wire doesn't impact the actual experience of using a keyboard. However, if you plan on using your deck with multiple devices in your setup it's well worth investing in a 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connection.

Size

Once you've landed on one side of the wired vs wireless debate, it's time to take a look at your desk top. Keyboards have evolved beyond the full-sized decks we came to accept back in the day - you can now get tiny 60% models and even larger command centers.

Each comes with its own benefits. While many initially struggle with the finger gymnastics required by the smallest keyboards (most commands are assigned to a secondary functional layer), a 65% model is perfect for those looking for a little more room to swing their mouse while still keeping a good amount of controls on board. 75% bumps you up to some extra navigational keys, and is preferable if you're using your keyboard for work as well as play but still want to keep things slim.

A full-sized model is going to limit your mouse movements a little, but provides more options for extra keybindings and macros.

Typing feel

If you're going to be using your keyboard for heavier typing sessions, it's well worth investing in a model that borrows from the world of custom decks. Features like gasket mounting, tape modding, and foam dampeners have all made their way from the enthusiast space to gaming keyboards in the last year, and make for a fantastic feel when hammering through the keys. If, however, you're only really going to be running the WASD this kind of investment might be misplaced (these design features can drive up the price a little).

Switches

The vast majority of keyboards come with a range of different switch options to choose from. However, once you've narrowed your selection down to a few candidates it's worth taking a look at the clickers you have available. More and more of the best gaming keyboards are actually hot-swappable (meaning you can easily replace the switches down the road), but picking up the kind of actuation speed and feel that suits you from day one is still important.

A linear switch is a smooth sweep down through the keypress, without any bumps underneath. This is best for faster gameplay with repeat presses.

A tactile switch will present a small bump to the actuation halfway down the keypress - it's more satisfying and controlled, but not as fast when it comes to repeat presses.

Clicky switches are similar, keeping that tactile bump, but making a louder sound while doing so. For more information, check out our guide to mechanical keyboard switches.

Gaming keyboard glossary

So as not to run this glossary section for ten pages, this guide focuses on key terms applied to gaming keyboards themselves, rather than the switches employed in them.

• Anti-Ghosting - A gaming keyboard with anti-ghosting features will allow multiple keys to be pressed at the same time and still recognize all of the inputs separately.
• Chatter - Chatter describes a fault in keyboard switches that appears with age. Multiple inputs are registered from a single keypress.
• Doubleshot - Doubleshot is a process of adding legends to keycaps that increases durability by combining two layers of plastic.
• Flex - Flex is a term used to describe the slight bending of the main keyboard chassis when pressure is applied or with typing force.
• Gasket Mount - A gasket mount is a mounting style making its way to gaming keyboards. Rubber sheets are placed between the frames of the keyboard and the main plate for a softer typing feel and reduced unwanted sound.
• Hotswap - Hotswapping a switch involves easily removing it from the casing of the keyboard and plugging another in. A hot-swappable keyboard will allow you to change the switches without having to solder anything.
• Keycap - The plastic cover on top of a keyboard switch.
• Macro - A macro is a keybinding or series of inputs programmed to a single keypress. A dedicated macro key is a set of keys set aside for this purpose.
• N-Key Rollover - A keyboard advertized as having N-Key Rollover can detect and register simultaneous key presses of any number of keys.
• Numpad - The array of number and navigational keys often found on the right hand side of a full-sized keyboard.
• Optical (Switch) - An alternative to mechanical keys where light is used to trigger a keypress response rather than individually moving parts. An optical keyboard is faster than a mechanical one, but doesn't feature the same feedback.
• PBT - A keycap material known for its superior durability and more textured feel compared to cheaper ABS.
• PCB - The printed circuit board of the keyboard.
• Ping - A reverberation of unfavorable high-pitched sound when a key is pressed.
• Polling Rate - The speed at which the keyboard communicates with a PC.
• Scan Rate - The speed at which the keyboard itself checks for new inputs.
• Stabilizer - A set of two small bars used to hold larger keys in place and reduce wobble.
• Switch - The component underneath a keycap that registers an input.

Gaming Keyboard FAQ

I'm also hunting down all the best membrane gaming keyboards and the best hot-swappable keyboards available right now. Or, take a look at the best Razer keyboards for full Chroma action.

You can spend hundreds on hot-swappable gaming keyboards, but I didn't want to do that. I wanted a cheap deck I could tinker with, upgrade, and potentially break. That's what led me to picking up the Newmen GM326, a super cheap 75% keyboard that retails at around $25-$30 / £25, and often much less. What can I say, I was curious to see what budget Amazon brands could offer.

After spending years testing the best gaming keyboards on the market, it's easy to forget the quality that can lie at the bottom end of that price range. I love picking up these cheaper decks, but the GM326 proves just how far we've come.

This is a fantastic piece of kit that costs less than some DLC. Based on the cheap gaming keyboards I used to pick up, I was expecting rattle, echo, dodgy switches, dead LEDs, and a crusty PCB. This thing feels like a premium deck masquerading as an entry level device.

Design

Considering I spent less than I would on takeout for this keyboard, it's built pretty damn well. It's a full plastic construction, which is to be expected, with a crisp white paint job. Yes, it's lighter than more expensive models from Keychron, and slightly taller than some gaming options from Asus and Razer, but it's comfortable, stable, and echo-free.

That's more than I can say for some gaming keyboards at three times this price. It's not without its edges; my right shift button is a little wonky, the rear elevation feet are particularly stiff, and the height of the top plate makes pulling some nestled switches a little fiddly. Overall, though, this thing looks like it costs far more than $25.

RGB lighting runs underneath each key, it's a little pastel-leaning rather than offering super vibrant colors but it's bright enough to keep your legends visible and can be swapped between three different profiles.

Overall, everything is remarkably sturdy - even the volume dial in the top right corner feels nicely tensioned. Unfortunately, there's no easy way to break into the chassis to apply your own mods, but taps still sound nicely dampened without a lick of ping, rattle, or echo across the entire deck. Considering I've tested three-figure Corsair keyboards that still suffer in this regard, that's a serious win.

Keycaps

Newmen doesn't disclose what its stock keycaps are made of, but considering this thing costs less than some of the cheaper PBT sets on the market I expect they're ABS. They're certainly sound like ABS, with a thinner form factor and a clackier rather than thockier sound (all technical terms, don't worry). The sides bend quite easily under pressure when removed form the board, and the cheaper construction can lead to shine over time, but they actually feel surprisingly solid under the fingertips.

There's a slight grain to the surface that provides plenty of tactile feedback as I skate over the top of the deck, and a nicely rounded profile that keeps things accurate as well. Compared to the Glorious GMBK's ABS toppers, these things are almost luxurious. Plus, at this price upgrading to something a little more comfortable is always on the cards.

Switches

Again, Newmen doesn't name a brand when discussing its switches - mine are simply labelled 'Red'. Again, though, they actually feel pretty good. You'll need to move further up the price scale (or swap them out) if you want something creamier, with a smoother travel, but things aren't exactly scratchy here.

Repeat presses are smooth and responsive, though you'll find better speeds and more dynamic actuation controls in premium magnetic options. As a budget mechanical option, though, they nail the brief, performing with a nice bounce and energetic feel under hand.

Software

Software isn't the Newmen GM326's strong point. It's out there, somewhere, but the site often sends Windows into a panic about malware and even once I took the plunge I could never fully get my PC to trust or run it. This is a no-go if you're after in-depth controls, but thankfully most of the basics are covered on the keyboard itself.

Controls

The Newmen GM326 has onboard function controls for a variety of different RGB settings including brightness, speed, and direction, as well as swapping between Windows and Mac, screen brightness, media playback, and even cut, copy, and paste. That's combined with a large, easily accessible volume dial in the corner, a rarity among cheaper decks.

There are a few gaming controls that are missing from this setup. There are no alternative keybinding arrangements, either via software (that I've been able to access anyway) or on the keyboard itself. You'll also find more RGB options, additional switch features, and SOCD controls in mid-range options as well.

Connection

A detachable USB-C cord keeps things flexible both on the desk top and in a backpack, though the thicker chassis of the Newmen GM326 does dash those portability hopes a little. This is a fully wired device, which is to be expected this far down the price scale. The supplied cable is cheap and rubbery, though does color-match the deck itself.

You won't find any fancy high polling rates via this cable, but most players don't need the 4,000 or 8,000Hz connections touted in marketing materials for premium decks. The GM326 kept up with me just fine in single player adventures.

Should you buy the Newmen GM326?

Whether you're buying your first gaming keyboard or you're looking for a slick mechanical 75% option on a budget, the Newmen GM326 is absolutely worth a visit. This is one of the first gaming keyboards to truly impress me with its value in a long time, and it's an absolute steal overall. You're not quite getting the finesse or features of more polished devices, but you'd be mad to expect it considering the quality of what's in front of you is so high for the price.

How I tested the Newmen GM326

I've been tinkering with the Newmen GM326 ever since I picked it up a few months ago. The budget deck has been on and off my desk in the time since then, culminating in one week's worth of intensive use across all my daily work and gaming. I ran this deck across Doom: The Dark Ages, Planet Coaster, and The Outer Worlds 2, with additional testing in Apex Legends.

I've also got my eyes on all the best wireless gaming keyboards as well as the best Razer keyboards and the best gaming mouse options for more setup ideas.

The Logitech G515 Rapid TKL takes the popular 515 form factor and throws a set of magnetic switches under the hood.

There's a reason not many low profile decks are adopting these adjustable switches, though. They're usually best placed in a taller deck with more travel distance to accurately judge, especially when it comes to setting multiple actuation points. That means the G515 does suffer compared to the best gaming keyboards at full height.

Aside from those new switches, there's not a lot to separate this deck from the original G515. The only difference is that wired connection. At $169.99 it's towards the cheaper end of the Hall effect spectrum, coming in only $10 more expensive than its mechanical companion.

Design

Logitech didn't want to mess with a good thing, and I can see why. The G515 Rapid TKL is simple in its aims, replicating the low profile experience of the G515 but with new switches under the hood. That means this thing looks, walks, and talks like the original - save for the typing feel once it's under the fingertips.

That means you're getting a super dense construction, built like a brick but with a much slimmer waistline. At just over 2cm tall it's thinner than just about everything in my testing pool, barring the travel-focused Razer Joro at 1.6cm.

That's at its thinnest point. Rising tall from the main black body is a lighter gray chunk that acts as a top bezel. This space is a little under-utilized, only offering a Game Mode button and caps lock indicator. It's a perfect spot for some dedicated media controls, which the G515 Rapid currently lacks. Even the Razer BlackWidow V4 Low Profile Hyperspeed, gave us more up top.

Still, it's a slick aesthetic only helped along by super vibrant blue lighting and a nice variation across the WASD keycap color. Longer legends still suffer from uneven LED shinethrough on this deck, but the main keys are all bold and bright.

The underside keeps things simple with a light gray corrugated plastic panel, two sets of feet for elevation and some thinner rubber grips. I'm not too worried about the size of those feet - this thing is surprisingly heavy and easily resists being slid across a desk.

Keycaps

I've come to the Logitech G515 Rapid TKL after a string of ABS caps, and it feels good to be home. These are quality doubleshot PBT toppers with a comfortable grain of texture to them that maintains precision while still being easy on the fingertips.

They're thin, wide caps with less spacing between keys than you'll find on taller models. That does lead to some missteps during faster gameplay and typing moments, but only requires a little muscle re-learning to get used to.

Switches

Being a low profile keyboard, the magnetic switches in here aren't going to reach the heights of the Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid, or other full-height Hall effect decks. Those looking for super-fast movements will be happy that we're still at a 0.1mm ceiling here, but if you prefer a deeper press it's worth noting that things cap out at 2.5mm here. That's just over half the depth of regular decks, which tend to reach all the way down to 4mm.

That means you've also got less space to time your multi-actuation inputs. It's a small feature I mostly use on WASD to swap between walking and running. The shorter height makes for an awkward hover when one function is set to halfway and another at full press, though. It's almost impossible to reliably maintain precision over these commands.

Elsewhere, though, you've got most of the other functions promised by analog switches. Rapid Tap keeps repeated inputs snappy by dynamically altering your reset point and SOCD controls are available as well. You do, however, lose the joystick-like features of decks like the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini.

Software

All that is configured in Logitech's G Hub software, a nicely laid out program that allows for easy configuration of keybindings, multiple actuations, individual actuation points, SOCD, and RGB effects.

All the usual suspects are here, with the ability to remap keys across a variety of system and streaming functions as well as personalized macros. This versatility isn't matched when assigning multiple actuation points, though.

G Hub itself is straightforward to use, with a simple menu along the side directing you towards its various personalization options intuitively. It's also fairly lightweight on the system, never causing any crashes or stuttering when in use.

Controls

The TKL layout is about as compact as you can go without losing any of your major controls, but many keyboards in this form factor still manage to keep a few dedicated clickers for media playback and volume. There's no such luxury here, with both functions mapped to the function row / top line of your navigation keys.

Even in a smaller form factor, the Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile manages to maintain a suite of additional controls.

Still, you're getting everything else you'd usually find in a TKL model here, as well as a dedicated Game Mode button in the top right corner.

Connection

Aside from those switches, this is the only thing separating the regular G515 from the Logitech G515 Rapid TKL. This is a fully wired system, with a corded 1.8m USB-C to USB-A cable in the box.

It's common for magnetic keyboards to use a wired connection. The switches themselves have a higher power draw and are already more expensive than mechanical clackers. However, if you are after a cord-free option, you'll be moving further up the price scale to the likes of the $419.99 Asus ROG Falcata or $329.99 Glorious GMMK 3 Pro HE.

The only real sacrifice you're making here is desk tidiness, though - unless you plan on taking your keyboard on the road with a gaming handheld.

Typing

With a wedge of sound dampening foam and softer-feeling magnetic switches, combined with that low profile design, the typing experience here is a little mushier than I've come to expect. There's still a small clack to each keypress but we're miles away from the thocky feel of my favorite decks.

If you opt for a shorter actuation point, typing can get a little messy. The combination of sensitivity, shorter spacing, and low-resistance keys makes for a slightly underwhelming typing experience overall. Speed is definitely on your side, but we're nowhere near the tactile response of the Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile here. Everything feels almost slippery in its actuation, even if those caps are textured well.

There's absolutely no echo here, though, so anyone looking for a quieter alternative to the Razer BlackWidow V4 Low Profile Hyperspeed should be taking note. That smoother action also makes for a more comfortable typing experience, especially over longer periods.

It's certainly speedy - I was above average at 102 WPM in my typing test (normally around 95 WPM), though was just a hair under my usual accuracy at 95%.

Gaming

While the issues I felt in typing are still present in-game, the speed and sensitivity of the Logitech G515 Rapid TKL show their benefits in the arena. While I would have liked a little extra key spacing to avoid accidental presses (which I did note a little more compared to other decks), everything was smooth and crisp here.

I couldn't quite rely on my usual dual-step actuations due to the shorter actuation point, but setting different keys to different positions certainly helped clean up some of those missteps. Similarly, Rapid Trigger features shone particularly bright in these shorter stops. I often find repeat presses cumbersome without a full height of travel to play with, but everything feels slick and effortless here.

Should you buy the Logitech G515 Rapid TKL?

I'd easily recommend the Logitech G515 Rapid TKL to anyone after a softer typing and gaming experience, with the additional flexibility of adjustable switch actuation points. If, however, you prefer a good amount of tactility under your fingertips there are other options I would prioritize. Ultimately, the feel of your keyboard is a personal preference, though having a little extra oomph can help with accuracy and precision in-game and when typing.

The Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile starts at the same $169.99 MSRP, foregos those adjustable switches, but offers a wireless connection, one of the best low profile typing experiences I've had, and still keeps dedicated media controls. It's still my favorite low profile deck overall.

If those magnetic clackers drew you to the Logitech G515 Rapid TKL, though, it's worth checking out its sibling. The $169.99 Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid uses full height keys for a far better experience in dual-step actuation and with a wider range of actuation points to choose form. It also stocks you full with extra controls. Again, this is a wired-only model, and you'll find a little extra tension in those switches compared to the G515.

The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini also adds extra functionality and a more satisfying (though notably echoey) typing experience, but cuts your footprint right down and costs $10 more.

How I tested the Logitech G515 TKL Rapid

I used the Logitech G515 TKL Rapid as my daily driver for one week, running it alongside a Glorious GMMK 3 with Ducky keycaps during that time. I mostly played my usual roster of Doom: The Dark Ages and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, with a little Planet Coaster thrown in for a good mix. However, I also performed more dedicated tests in Apex Legends and CS2, while measuring typing speed using TypingTest.com.

For more information on how we test gaming keyboards, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

I'm also counting down all the best wireless gaming keyboards as well as the best hot-swappable keyboards on the market. For something a little cheaper, though, check out the best membrane keyboards available now.

The majority of gaming keyboards that cross my desk these days have one thing in common. Magnetic switches are taking the scene by storm, but Turtle Beach is taking a step back from this Hall effect revolution. The Vulcan II TKL is a wired hot-swappable mechanical keyboard retailing for $119.99 / £119.99, just $40 less than its magnetic Pro model.

That's a little tricky to reconcile. For just a little extra, the Pro offers adjustable switches and a wrist rest for good measure.

So what do you get here? A particularly smooth typing experience, dedicated volume controls, and a nicely staggered keycap design makes for a versatile and intuitive deck with the feel of a low profile keyboard but the depth of a full height machine. At this lower mid-range price point, though, it's not going to give any of the best gaming keyboards too much of a headache.

Design

The Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL looks like pretty much every other Vulcan release to date, even going back to the Roccat days. Just like the Vulcan II Mini Air, we've got a set of exposed switches with skinny caps on top, an all-black chassis, and a plastic body.

It's an aesthetic I can get behind, and I normally prefer the thickest, thocciest keyboard I can get my hands on. There's an almost industrial design going on here, with those exposed switches and LEDs shining bright underneath each cap and a brushed effect keeping the top plate interesting as well.

Thankfully the larger top bezel of older releases is gone, with the only branding here being a light gray Turtle Beach logo underneath the navigation keys.

It's a cheaper build quality for sure, but the aluminum top plate still feels solid and the main case avoids feeling too hollow.

That's because, despite the slightly thinner design, there's still a good amount of sound absorption going on here. Dampening foam is listed on the Vulcan II TKL's materials list, but the exact structure of that internal padding is still a mystery.

Whatever it looks like inside, Turtle Beach has done a fantastic job of eliminating ping and echo around this deck - something even the $199.99 Razer BlackWidow V4 Low Profile Hyperspeed suffers from.

Keycaps

Unlike the Pro version, the Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL is compatible with third party keycaps, and I'd recommend swapping them out pretty soon. These are cheaper ABS numbers, and I'm already seeing just a little hint shine after just over two weeks of use.

Aside from the legends themselves there's no texture here, and things can get clammy fast. Of course, if you do swap you'll lose the RGB vibrancy offered by the T-shaped cap design. Lighting is reduced to a small underglow on the top plate when swapped with a set of Cherry-profile Duckys.

It's a little frustrating that Turtle Beach cheaped out on the keycaps here, as the visual design of the existing profile is one of the deck's main strengths. The brand also notes that after-market low profile keycaps might not be compatible.

Switches

Onto better news, I do love these switches. The Vulcan II TKL is outfitted with a set of the brand's own Titan HS linears, all pre-lubed. These are particularly smooth and soft, with a particularly dampened landing that still manages to produce a satisfying clack sound.

Combine that with the sound dampening underneath and you've got a particularly creamy feel to each keypress. A 1.8mm actuation point and 45g of force keep things a little zippier than some red linears, they're slightly shorter and lighter.

This is also a fully hot-swappable keyboard, compatible with both 3 and 5 pin switches. In theory, anyway. I'd be damned if these things aren't cemented into the PCB, it's incredibly tough to actually rip them out. I'm swapping switches nearly every week and I've never had this much trouble tearing down a keyboard.

If you do manage to prise these clackers out, note that LEDs are north facing so you'll need to make sure your switches suit in order to get the full light show.

Software

Like most Turtle Beach accessories, you'll be booting up Swarm II software, a fairly lightweight program for keybindings and RGB customization. There's little else going on here, without any adjustable switches to speak of additional controls are limited to SOCD configuration.

Key remaps and individual macros are easy to set up and assign, with a simple click-and-replace process and a visual representation of the deck to work from. There are some quirks here, though. For some reason my keyboard showed up in an alternate layout, which I never seemed to be able to resolve. All the keys were still remappable, though.

Controls

This is a TKL number, which means you've still got full access to the function row as well as a separate navigational cluster and arrow buttons. That means you've got more horizontal space to work with compared to a 75% model, while still cutting down on your footprint to save desk space.

This is a happy medium for many players.

It also means you're more likely to find dedicated media controls and, while playback is relegated to the function row, a separate volume dial stands tall in the top right corner. I say 'stands tall' because the extra height on this dial compared to others I've used makes it particularly easy to twirl at a moment's notice.

Some decks will instead offer a wider, flatter roller control (like the Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid and SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3), but they're often lost amongst the sea of keys. I have to physically reach over the top of the caps to hit them, whereas Turtle Beach's implementation feels far more intuitive.

Connection

Is $119.99 a little pricey for a wired gaming keyboard? It depends who you ask. This would be a fantastic price if the Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL was wireless, but competitors in this price range are still attaching cords as well. The Cherry MX 3.1 occupies the same MSRP with a wired connection and the Alienware Pro Wireless gaming keyboard keeps the cord at the full $199.99.

Still, it's worth noting that the Keychron V6 Max manages to do away with that cable for just $5 more, and does so with a fantastic range of connection options to boot.

The Vulcan comes supplied with its own USB-C cable, plugging directly into your system with a 1,000Hz poling rate.

Typing

The combination of sound dampening and super smooth switches makes for a particularly comfortable typing experience. There's more resistance underneath each key than I'm used to here, but interestingly that tension ramps all the way up on larger buttons.

The space bar, enter key, and backspace all feel a little more muffled under the fingertips. Initially, I was worried that my presses weren't even registering, such was the difference between the clack of the main alphas and the cushioned thunk of these modifiers. However, I've grown used to the sensation and, overall, it adds to the comfort.

The high sensitivity of these switches comes as both a curse and a blessing. On the one hand, shorter actuations meant my typing speed was slightly up, hitting 100 WPM on average during testing. However, the smaller caps combined with the difference in resistance meant accuracy was shot. I averaged 92% accuracy in typing tests, a notable drop from my usual 95% position.

Gaming

The Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL is plenty fast enough for today's games, at a variety of skill levels. It's not pushing too far into esports territory with its 1,000Hz polling rate but will still serve those playing competitively online just fine. If you're knocking on tournament-level doors, you might prefer something with a faster speed.

The extra sensitivity is nice, but is held back a little by shorter key spacing and less defined caps. While those smooth keycaps did hurt accuracy a little during faster games like Doom: The Dark Ages, I was comfortable playing for the vast majority of my time with the Vulcan. The strange feel of the space bar did take even more getting used to when it came to perfectly-timed jumps, though.

Of course, it's also worth noting that you'll get far more gaming features, like rapid trigger, multi-step actuation, and joystick-like controls from magnetic or analog keyboards, some of which are only a little more expensive than the Vulcan II TKL.

Should you buy the Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL?

The Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL carries a typing feel that differs from just about every other gaming keyboard I've tested to date, but if you prioritize smooth switch action and a short actuation point above all else it's going to serve particularly well. It takes a few hits in accuracy, and its advertised hot-swappability is easier said than done, but overall this is a pleasant deck to use every day.

You'll need to get used to the higher tension underneath each switch, and longer, faster typing sessions can grow fatiguing. It's also only one for those cramming as many LEDs into their setups as possible, but it's solid on its own.

The problem is there's a lot more available for only a little extra cash. In the Vulcan's very own family the Pro model offers far better value overall with its magnetic switches and extra design features. Not only that, but from a pure mechanical standpoint, the Cherry MX 3.1 sits at the exact same price but with far better keycaps and easier hot-swappability.

How I tested the Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL

I used the Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL over a period of two weeks, alongside the Glorious GMMK 3 and CLVX 1 here and there. During that time I used the device for both work and play, running most days entirely on the keyboard connected to either a Razer Blade 14 or Lenovo Legion 7i Gen 10 gaming laptop. I primarily tested across Apex Legends, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Doom: The Dark Ages, with additional typing tests at TypingTest.com. For more information on how we test gaming keyboards, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

I'm also rounding up all the best Razer keyboards if you're after another flavor. Or, check out the best gaming mouse models and best gaming headsets for more setup inspiration.

If you keep on top of gaming keyboards, Razer's latest model is going to seem awfully familiar. That's because the company has just announced a new spin on its Hunstman V3 Pro but it's for esports players and not you (well, unless you are an esports player, or want to be one).

The Huntsman V3 Pro 8KHz increases responsiveness over the previous model by 11%, according to Razer. The exact polling speed is 8,000Hz. Razer's added a few more perks in its fight for best gaming keyboard status, including tweaks that make the keyboard more comfortable to type on.

Like the standard model, the 8KHz has a digital dial, control buttons, adjustable actuation from 0.1mm to 4mm, and enhanced durability so you can't accidentally destroy the thing in a fit of rage. It boasts plenty of returning Razer features like Rapid Trigger Mode, making for quicker repeated button-pressing, and Snap Tap, which lets you press sequences of keys without the keyboard triggering multiple at once.

Of course, most people won't notice the heights of the 8KHz's fast speed, but if you're an eSports pro — or if you're really behind on your coursework — perhaps it'll make the difference. Unlike many gadgets which boast the 'Pro' suffix, the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro 8KHz really is designed for professionals.

The V3 Pro 8KHz costs you $249.99 to buy, which is exactly the same as the standard edition costs, though discounts including early Black Friday gaming deals have seen the older model drop in price by a modest amount. Razer generally offers its super-responsive models for the same price as the standard ones, like with the Basilisk V3 Pro and its 35KHz model both going for $159.99.

Razer has also released the Huntsman V3 Pro 8KHz Tenkeyless, which as the name suggests, ditches the number pad on the side. This is $219.99 for the black version, $229.99 for a white model or $249.99 for a green model.

The standard model of the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro didn't make it onto our list of the best gaming keyboards (although the V3 Pro Mini is our best 60%er), but perhaps the tweaks Razer has made here will make the difference and earn the keyboard a spot.

• See all gaming keyboards at Amazon
• Razer Huntsman V3 Pro 8KHz | $249.99 at Razer
• Razer Huntsman V3 Pro | $249.99 $219.99 at Best Buy

We've also got you covered for all the best wireless gaming keyboards and best hot-swappable keyboards on the market. For more Sneki, though, check out the best Razer keyboards available.

The CLVX 1 was immediately met with a raised eyebrow when it landed in my inbox. Having been burned by the Naya Create just last month, I was wary of any keyboard that claimed to be more than a set of clackers.

This is a full sized keyboard with a touchpad built into the keys themselves, outlining the middle of the alphanumeric keys for an expansive pad ready to act as a mouse as soon as you finish typing. Yeah right.

No, it really does work.

It's not going to be giving the best gaming keyboards anything to worry about, but I have to say the CLVX1 has changed my work game. I test keyboards and mice on the regular, so I have a near constant rotation of new devices every two weeks. Putting them all away for a few days was a relief. I haven't had a mouse on my desk during work hours for days now, and everything feels a lot calmer.

Switching between typing and using the touchpad control is everything brand Clevetura claims it to be; seamless, intuitive, and fast. Inputs are picked up incredibly smoothly, and the transition back to typing is immediate as well.

You'd be surprised how much time you can save without having to move your hands away from the keyboard, how much you stay in flow. It's remarkable that nobody's released a similar device in the year since the CLVX1 has been on the market.

Unlike other keyboards looking to consolidate all controls into one board, the CLVX 1 doesn't need you to change how you work. Naya's modular design fundamentally alters the way you interact with your PC, here the keyboard is working to the actions already embedded in your muscle memory.

For the most part, sliding motions when typing are impressively ignored. I only had a few instances of accidental inputs when I'd left my hands on the keys in between sentences, only to drag them to the next key slightly before starting to type again.

There are two main click buttons positioned under the space bar, but they're a little too stiff to truly feel intuitive and their positioning means dragging and dropping is a bit of a juggle. Still, a double tap and hold can perform the same action on the touchpad itself.

That's the best thing about the CLVX 1; the more you use it the better it gets. Yes there's an AI mode that claims to learn how you type in order to better tune sensitivity levels, but I'm talking more about the functions and features on offer.

There's an accompanying app but it's a little sparse, allowing you to reprogram the slider sections at the top and remap the function row. There's one thing missing here, though, touchpad sensitivity controls.

See, a laptop touchpad is designed to use with a smaller laptop screen. That means you don't need as much distance in your tracking speed - a single sweep from left to right will normally get you across the screen just fine. Except the CLVX 1 isn't designed to accompany a laptop, it's a keyboard built for desk use - and my monitor measures 32-inches.

That means to get from one corner to another I'm having to swipe a good number of times, sometimes feeling like I'm crawling to my destination. Being able to adjust this speed would make the world of difference.

Should you buy the CLVX 1?

This isn't the article I assumed I'd be writing when the CLVX 1 landed at my doorstep. It only took a few minutes of actual use for the two-in-one to actually impress me, though. Aside from that super slick touchpad integration, the CLVX 1 actually feels like a nice keyboard to type on.

You'll find deeper, more textured keystrokes among the best hot-swappable keyboards, but for a low profile chiclet style deck there's still plenty of snap and energy here.

If you've got the cash to experiment and find yourself tired of breaking typing flow to reach over to your mouse, there's nothing I'd recommend more than the CLVX 1. It seems like such a simple feature addition, but it can genuinely change the game if you give it the time and space to shine. Separate profiles can cater to more creative apps for power users as well.

That said, I don't think anything could be worse for gaming. This deck isn't designed for your Steam library, so keep it well away.

• See all keyboards at Amazon
• CLVX 1 | $249 at Amazon

I'm also rounding up all the best wireless gaming keyboards and the best membrane gaming keyboards on the market. If an integrated touchpad doesn't sound like your bag, though, check out the best gaming mouse models on the market.

I think Azeron's Cyborg gaming keypads are probably some of the most ingenious bits of gaming technology ever created, but their alien design is quick to jumpscare most people into immediately saying "I just don't know how I would... but.. what is it?" before ultimately landing on "I don't think that's for me". They might be a love child of one of the best PC controllers and a typical gaming keyboard, but they certainly get met with the same reaction as Frankenstein's creature a lot of the time.

That's why I can see why Azeron has created a new version of its increasingly popular gaming keypad, called Keyzen. This seems a little more familiar to the norm for PC gamers, thanks to its adoption of keyboard switches and a slightly less offensive design. Since its reveal, I can feel a lot more excitement coming from the folks who have been interested in trying an Azeron device, but who wanted less of an adjustment from the norm. Could the combination of thumbstick movement and Cherry switches be a more "mainstream" approach for this revolutionary way to game?

Perhaps what I like best about the way Azeron has gone about the creation of Keyzen is that it feels like a sibling, not an upgrade. It's got the same features, design philosophy, and a similar price to the Cyborg II. Newcomers can choose between the $240 / £240 Cyborg II, or the $250 / £250 Keyzen, and besides a slight discrepancy, it'll all come down to preference over your switches.

Design

Even with its more conventional approach, I fear that the Azeron Keyzen still takes some explaining. Azeron has made a name for itself by crafting middle-man devices that sit somewhere between the comfort and ergonomics of a controller and the functionality and speed of a keyboard.

Like the Azeron Cyborg II, Keyzen is designed to be used by one hand (left or right) in combination with a mouse. You rest your palm down on it, and each of your fingers is allocated a "tower" or line of keys for you to actuate. Your thumb is allocated a stick, like the ones on a controller, which you can map to the WASD keys, freeing your other fingers up for other in-game actions.

The thumbstick and all 32 mappable keys are your blank canvas to paint your own beautiful control schemes onto. It's up to you to make profiles that suit you and the games you play. Thanks to a handy online community of people who have already been through this often jarring teething process, you can also find profiles others have already made to save some trouble. While I often create new controller profiles for new games I play, a lot of the time, you can absolutely get by with just one profile for most titles.

Where Keyzen and the Cyborg II differ is that the "towers" (rows of switches allocated to each finger) on this device only have switches that mainly keep to a horizontal plane - although they curl upwards at the ends, most of the ones you'll use more frequently are laid down flat, like they are on a conventional keyboard. Slight offsets on angles help you to differentiate one from another, as opposed to the sometimes off-putting finger cages of the Cyborg II that wrap around your digits. In converting the Cyborg's design in this way, Azeron has added two extra columns of keys for your pinky and index fingers, which actually results in an increase of two keys over the Cyborg II's 30.

Keyzen can be adjusted and customized in plenty of different ways, as is one of this brand's USPs. Each keypad is handcrafted from the company's headquarters in Latvia, and although most of its components are 3D printed, it's put together by hand based on your preferences. You can opt for a curved or flat palmrest, you can change the colors and switches used, you can add a custom name plate, or opt for an "elite" metal thumbstick. Although this brand's wares are available at Amazon, the real treat is heading to its bespoke website, where you can build your device from the ground up with a custom designer.

Keyzen is compatible with the angular magnetic stand and grip tape of Cyborg II, although you won't be able to get grip tape for the tops of the keys on the Keyzen, like you can for the Cyborg II.

That shopping experience is really just the beginning too, because once the keypad arrives at your door, you can then change the length of each finger tower so that it's in the right position for your hand. This is one area where I feel as though Keyzen loses out compared to Azeron's other devices, though. There's less adjustability here than I'd like. I'd prefer to be able to change the tilting angles of the keys a little more so that I could more easily distinguish between them. I'd like to be able to recreate the same shape as the Cyborg's towers, but these are mostly all fixed in place.

Something I do have to credit about Keyzen's design is its build quality. One of my few gripes with Azeron's 3D printing is that it doesn't exactly feel premium for its price tag, or even, at times, sturdy enough to last. That really boils down to a feeling - I've never actually run into major fragility issues with this brand's devices besides one screw popping out a few years ago, but with the mouse switches and finger towers on the Cyborgs, I always feel like I need to be careful. With the more substantial keyboard switches aboard Keyzen, that fragile feeling is avoided, and the device has a more premium feeling of build quality as a result.

Features

Just like with the Azeron Cyborg II, Keyzen features a Hall effect thumbstick that won't succumb to stick drift, and it can be calibrated through the Azeron software. Switches can be either Cherry Red, Blue, or Brown, but you can only get one type of switch on your keypad. Although the keycaps are removable and supposedly swappable, you won't be able to count this among the best hot-swappable keyboards. Since each Azeron device is handcrafted, I imagine it's a much harder process to mount new switches to a device like this, and you'll be limited by the space you actually have and the angles you'd need to mount them, etc, etc.

It's a bit of a shame that these are the only options for key switches, though. As I've just alluded to, I understand the limitations when making a niche product like this, but one of the big appeals of keyboards as a gaming device is that you can truly customize their feel, and in many ways, futureproof yourself when new switches enter vogue. It'd be amazing to see an Azeron keypad with Hall effect switches where you could customize different levels of actuation. It'd be an unholy degree of personalization, but one I think would take the appeal of this product to even greater heights for me. Perhaps this is already an idea the brand is working on for an eventual Keyzen II.

The companion piece to the excellent hardware here is Azeron's software, which allows you to create all of the profiles you want for your pad. You can store up to six profiles on board Keyzen, but the software lets you create limitless numbers, and swapping them on and off the keypad's memory is nice and easy. I even managed to drag a few existing profiles from my Cyborg II onto Keyzen, and with a few minor edits, they were ready to use in under a minute each. For a device as potentially complex as this, Azeron does a remarkable job of making its software streamlined and easy to use.

Performance

I swapped out my Azeron Cyborg II for the Keyzen for over a month, and all in all, I've put well over 100 hours of gameplay into testing it. That's across mainly first-person games like Cyberpunk 2077, Dying Light: The Beast, Hunt: Showdown, Arena Breakout Infinite, Borderlands 4, and a little bit of Helldivers 2 as well. I didn't test Keyzen in as many genres as I did with the Cyborg II, mainly because reviewing that keypad showed that this line of peripheral is really designed for FPS games first and foremost, with some additional strength in third-person action and MMOs. That might just be my preference though, since Azeron regularly holds livestreams showcasing its devices in games like Hades II. There really is a lot of versatility here, in part due to how creative you can get with its software.

I really don't think Cyborg II lends itself to 2D platformers or fighting games where controllers arguably feel most at home - but with Keyzen providing more of an arrow key setup, I bet you could probably find a way to make these games work if you wanted to.

I chose Cherry Blue switches in my review unit, since I wanted something with a clicky feel to make the crossover from the Cyborg II as natural as possible. Keep in mind that your experience may vary from mine, depending on your switch choice, but for me, keyboard switches added more tactility to the Azeron experience.

I'm a big lover of the idea of "game feel", but when I use that term off the cuff, a lot of people squint for a second, because although it's a pretty self-explanatory concept, it's a term mainly used by game designers to describe virtual sensation. It's the sum of a lot of things a video game does to make you feel as though your in-game actions have weight and substance. It's a mix of the sound and animation, any effects that are thrown up on screen, or the effort noises your character makes. When I'm reviewing one of the best Xbox Series X controllers, it's fairly easy to assess if they aid or detract from game feel thanks to crunchy feedback rumbling around in your hands.

Once you become fluent in using the Azeron Cyborg, it has decent potential for game feel - not because it has rumble motors or haptic feedback, but because the speed with which you actuate its OMRON keys makes you feel at one with your avatar. On the other hand, compared to all the varying button presses and key sensations from controllers and keyboards, there's a tactility that's slightly lacking from the Cyborg II.

With keyboard switches on the Keyzen, games feel so much weightier. I played around 70 hours of Cyberpunk 2077 with this product under my left hand, and every jump, breach initiation, and scan of the environment felt so much more substantial than when I played with a Cyborg. Especially with the Blue switches I have, the actuation has such a satisfying push-down before the click happens, which adds a feeling of power to melee strikes, jumps, and dashes.

On the flip side, I do feel as though Keyzen misses out on the speed that I love the Cyborg II for. With every switch on that device, a small finger twitch away, not only are the in-game actions quicker to actuate, but they're so much easier to find. One of my biggest issues with Keyzen is that it comes with the same issues a conventional keyboard does for me.

I don't know what it is about my brain that can't differentiate keys on a horizontal board when I'm gaming, but I really struggle. I compare it to when I was forced to take a few piano lessons as a kid, and I couldn't for the life of me distinguish the spaces between each one appropriately. That's one of the biggest reasons I was drawn to the Cyborg keypads to begin with, because it brings all of the keys to your fingers and makes things so much easier to navigate. With Keyzen, even after more than 100 hours played, I still struggle to hit the right ones. This is still a personal preference more than anything else, and I'm sure others who usually play with a keyboard won't have this issue, but there's undoubtedly more margin for error here, especially since there's space between each key that presents more opportunity for fat-fingering, potatoing, or whatever term you use to describe a disastrous mis-press.

For those who do use a keyboard though, or who don't mind all of these typical keyboard hangups, I'll say what I said about the Cyborg II when I reviewed it. This is a revolutionary gaming peripheral that will liberate you from dedicated WASD controls, and give you a controller that works for you and your brain. In that way, this is an unmatched way to play that I really believe points to the future of this hobby.

Should you buy the Azeron Keyzen?

Personally, I think Azeron Cyborg II has the edge over Keyzen, but my arrival at this brand's door may not be for the same reasons as you. If you're more acclimatized to using a keyboard for gaming, this will likely suit you so much more than the clicky mouse switches on the Cyborg. What's more, it'll make for a smoother transition, which can make or break your enjoyment of this device. This is a new way to play, so there's undoubtedly going to be a break-in period for your brain as you re-learn. But if you're already a keyboard enjoyer, that break-in window will be so much shorter for you with Keyzen than it would be with a Cyborg.

If, however, you're like me and you avoid gaming keyboards for a reason, I'd still stick with the Cyborg II. It makes up for its lack of feel with an increase in speed.

Like I stated at the beginning of this review, though, Cyborg and Keyzen feel like siblings, not rivals. There are absolutely small strengths and weaknesses with either, but on the whole, I'd argue that it comes down to your preference. Both offer the same excellent gaming potential that marries keyboards and controllers beautifully.

For me, it's the Cyborg II's speed that comes out on top, but if you'd prefer a bit more feel, the Cherry switches on the Keyzen will help open your mind to a whole new way to play.

How I tested the Azeron Keyzen

I used the Azeron Keyzen for almost all of my PC gaming for over a month before writing this review. All in all, I put more than 100 hours into testing it, mainly in first-person games.

I compared my experience very closely to my time with previous Azeron products, and even designed my review unit using the brand's custom builder to get a better sense of how the customer experience can be.

For more on how we test controllers, check out the GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

Looking for more conventional controllers? Check out the best PS5 controllers, the best PS4 controllers, and the best Xbox One controllers.

Turtle Beach has refreshed its low profile Vulcan line this week, with the Vulcan II TKL hitting the pre-order shelves ahead of the October 12 release date. I've been running the new deck alongside some of the best gaming keyboards for a little while in the lead up to release, but one thing was obvious as soon as I got it out the box.

This is a damn strange space bar.

I can't decide if I love for hate it. See, Turtle Beach has greatly improved the switch smoothness in its latest iteration, but it's also massively softened its larger keys. While the main alphas feel incredibly well sound dampened, even creamy, under the fingertips, the space bar is almost entirely silenced.

It's got more resistance behind it, absolutely no sound, and it's even set ever-so-slightly lower than the rest of the deck. The first time I used it I immediately assumed it hadn't even registered a keypress, that my unit was faulty. This looks to be a feature, not a bug though.

It's a bizarre feeling to try and get used to, but in just a few hours I did. The effect is also replicated across the backspace and, to a lesser extent, and enter key. There's a higher tension in these keys, but an additional softness to compensate and it, actually, makes for a surprisingly comfortable experience.

I'm not a fan of low profile keyboards, and I never have been.

Newer releases are turning my head, though. The Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile is one of my favorite decks on the market, thanks to its super cushioned typing feel. The Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL has even more of a pillowy design.

I'm yet to get enough time with the new deck to release my full review but, even from this short period of testing I'm on board. I'm even starting to like the industrial RGB vibe.

Smaller keycaps, a view straight down to the switches, and larger gaps between keys means there's nowhere for these LEDs to hide. Other decks tend to clean this up a little, to make their lighting look a little more slick. I don't hate seeing every color dancing across the board here.

So maybe I was a little harsh on low profile keyboards in the past. It wasn't the gradient I hated, but the hard, loud key landing. It's difficult to dampen a shorter key stop, as I learned recently while testing the Razer BlackWidow V4 Low Profile Hyperspeed. If more low profile decks give this much attention to cushioning that typing feel, I could be their next convert.

It's also fully hot-swappable, offers its own dedicated volume dial, and polls at the standard 1,000Hz.

• See all gaming keyboards at Amazon
• Turtle Beach Vulcan II TKL | $119.99 at Turtle Beach
• Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile | $199.99 $139.99 at Amazon

Need something tether-free? I'm also rounding up all the best wireless gaming keyboards on the market. Or, check out more of the best hot-swappable keyboards available. If you're looking for something cheaper, take a look at the best membrane keyboards available.

The Glorious GMBK 75% targets a market that hardware brands seem to forget about. This 75% membrane deck wants to be a bargain favorite, an entry level gaming keyboard with the core features you need to survive the arena. On the surface, it succeeds.

A strong build quality for the price, decent 1,000Hz polling, customizable keycaps, and dedicated volume controls make for a compelling package at $59.99 / £49.99. The enduring stiffness of membrane switches persist here, though, and considering cheaper mechanical decks are sneaking into this price range things aren't exactly smooth sailing compared to the rest of the market. Yes, it's cheaper than the best gaming keyboards on the shelves, but there are better typing experiences available at this price point.

As far as the best membrane gaming keyboards are concerned, though, this is a new contender.

Design

Despite its lower price tag, this is undeniably a Glorious keyboard. You're getting the same blocky wedge-shaped form factor with a strip of RGB lighting down each side and a logo emblazoned in the top right corner.

Unlike the rest of the brand's premium lineup, this is an entirely plastic affair. That's to be expected for a more budget-friendly deck, and the case itself holds up well under pressure. I heard no creaking during either day-to-day operation or when physically pushing on the sides and underside.

It still feels like plastic, with a slightly hollow chassis and lighter form, but it's a solid implementation of a cheaper material designed to keep costs low.

The main deck has enough flex to stay bouncy without feeling mushy, and is decked out with some pretty vibrant RGB lighting. The Glorious GMBK 75% offers ten customizable lighting zones, spread across the main typing area underneath a translucent cover. That's far more than you'll find on the Roccat Magma, which halves your RGB zones.

The fact that this is a membrane keyboard also means you're covered for spills, with IP57 waterproofing and dust resistance.

Keycaps

Glorious has made a big song and dance about the fact that you can swap the keycaps on the GMBK 75%, and I can see why. The caps available straight out the box are super cheap APS toppers, with a slippery surface. They're far from pleasant to type on, but do offer shine through legends and the fact that RGB isn't confined to individual switches means that shine is impressively uniform as well.

The big benefit over other membrane keyboards here, though, is that swappability. Most rubber-dome decks keep their caps fused to their switches, but this deck is compatible with any MX-style toppers.

Switches

If you've come from a mechanical gaming keyboard you're going to hate the feel of these switches. If you're shopping for your first RGB-infused deck and don't want to break the bank, your opinion may be slightly different. I'm in the privileged position of testing a huge number of high-end keyboards month to month, so returning to a membrane option always hurts a little.

These keys are significantly heavier, and stickier, than mechanical switches - though they're far more pleasant to type on than those of the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL. While membrane switches are always going to feel stiffer than smooth mechanical options they're also much, much cheaper. If, however, you can't stand that extra force, it's worth noting that the SteelSeries Apex 5 manages to sidestep the issue by using lighter mecha-membrane clackers.

The GMBK's clickers also feature a satisfying clack sound, which I love - but certainly disqualifies the brand's "quiet" marketing claims. I also recorded no jittering or double presses, faults that often plague cheaper mechanical decks.

Software

The GMBK 75% is fully customizable using Glorious Core software, a refined set of keybinding, RGB, battery, and polling controls. The actual software is nice and easy to use, with a sturdy, though not exhaustive, collection of keybinding options and a simple macro recorder. The only issue I encountered happened after updating my firmware, though.

I usually keep my gaming keyboards' RGB to a static cyan (strangely labelled "normally on" in Core software) and had everything set up as such before updating. The update removed this setting and no matter how many times I rebooted I was never able to customize the RGB again. This should hopefully be ironed out with further fixes.

There's one downside to the Core software that you might not find in other programs or keyboards that offer lighter web-launcher customization tools. It's hungry. At times, it was using more of my CPU than a 98-tab Chrome window, and it always seems to bury itself deep in my task bar.

Controls

I'm a big fan of the 75% form factor, so I'm glad Glorious chose this mini-yet-functional style for its budget friendly device. You've got full access to a function row, arrow buttons, and navigational keys here, while also maintaining a compact footprint. That means no knocking up against the side of your keyboard with your mouse hand, and a more comfortable shoulder position when typing.

The GMBK also features dedicated volume controls via its programmable rotary dial, a knob that feels sturdy and smooth to operate. Unfortunately, playback is relegated to the function row, so you're losing the full buttons you'll find on the SteelSeries Apex 5.

Connection

As you might have guessed from the low price tag, the Glorious GMBK 75% is a fully wired affair, and that cable is nothing special. This is one of the cheapest cables cords I've come across, a thin rubber wire that keeps all the kinks it gained in packaging.

Typing

It took me a little while get used to typing on the GMBK 75%. I'm used to a linear mechanical or magnetic switch, so the heavier actuation force and stickier feeling of a membrane deck took a little re-learning. Still, there's a surprising energy underneath these keys that actually made longer typing sessions slightly more pleasant than I was expecting after first laying hands on it.

Fatigue does set in fairly quickly, you'll need sturdy fingers to marathon this device. However, it's far from the lethargic feel of the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL.

I made more mistakes in the early days, due to the lower sensitivity of the switches I was assuming a keypress had been registered far too often. What happened in the typing tests surprised me.

Despite the heavier feel, I was actually well above my usual average typing speeds here. The average of all my tests was a neat 100 WPM, where my usual average sits at 95. That said, my accuracy was well below average, working out at 93% across all tests. I'm normally sitting at around 96%.

Gaming

The heavier switch feel means the GMBK 75 won't be the one for those needing instant responses to twitch-reflex inputs. I couldn't quite keep up with my usual pace in faster games like Apex Legends, and I was missing quite a few inputs while expecting a lighter actuation force.

The deck did, however, hold its own in single player events. Fatigue is less of an issue here, which means that deeper keypress works slightly more in a gamer's favor. While a few inputs were dropped due to my lighter touch, I was far cleaner in avoiding accidental presses.

Should you buy the Glorious GMBK 75%?

If you've got $60 to spend on a new gaming keyboard you've got a few options open to you. You can opt for a budget mechanical deck from a lesser known brand (likely Redragon or RK Royal Kludge) or go for a more feature-rich membrane deck. The path you take will be dictated by your priorities; typing feel vs gaming features.

You're less likely to find easy programming controls, RGB lighting and higher 1,000Hz polling rates in the kinds of $59.99 mechanical keyboards you'll find on Amazon or AliExpress. But they will feel a lot smoother than stiffer membrane keys.

If you're going for gaming features, the Glorious GMBK 75% could be worth a look. It's not for those who will be typing for longer periods of time, nor those looking for twitch-reflex gameplay, but as a first, budget-friendly gaming keyboard with everything you need to get started (and the opportunity to customize further with new keycaps), it's well worth your attention.

It's certainly a better buy than the SteelSeries Apex 3 TKL. That said, I'd always recommend checking out cheaper mechanical options before a membrane deck.

How I tested the Glorious GMBK 75%

I used the Glorious GMBK 75% for one work week and two gaming weekends, running the device for a particularly typing-intensive few days and using it for all my daily gameplay. I primarily tested across Doom: The Dark Ages and Spiritfarer, while also testing more intently on Apex Legends. I also completed three typing tests on TypingTest.com, using two minute runs on easy text. For more information on how we test gaming keyboards, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

I'm also rounding up all the best wireless gaming keyboards and the best hot-swappable keyboards on the market. Or, check out the best gaming mouse models for more setup inspiration.

Amazon Prime Day may be just around the corner, but Best Buy has made some early leaps this weekend. While the online retail giant is still trickling early deals onto the shelves, there's one gadget that's seen a complete price plummet on the other side of the web.

You'll find the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 available for its lowest price yet at Best Buy, down to $175.99 from the $239.99 MSRP. That's a fantastic result considering this is the best gaming keyboard I've tested so far this year, and previous discounts have only ever bottomed out at $197.99.

Official Amazon Prime Day gaming deals will land on October 7, but Best Buy is already gearing up for its competing sale. Sites like this, Newegg, and Walmart all settle into their own discounts when Amazon takes a leap - and they often kick off the entire holiday sales season. That means there's plenty more where that came from, but for now - this is a steal.

Should you buy the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3?

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 is my favorite gaming keyboard at the moment, combining magnetic alpha keys and mechanical modifiers for a best-of-both-worlds experience. Beyond that, though, it's one of the best-feeling magnetic keyboards I've tested so far.

While cheaper alternatives like the Logitech G Pro X TKL Rapid and Corsair K70 Pro TKL can feel a little too stiff with that extra magnetic tension, the Apex Pro is smooth, speedy, and intuitive. It's the fastest I've been able to adapt to half-presses for multiple actuations, with an excellent sense of positioning within the switch itself.

Are those switches as slick as those of the Asus ROG Falcata? No, but you're also not spending $420.

The Apex Pro TKL offers a fantastic gaming and typing experience with a handful of extras contained within that OLED display, additional wrist rest, and a streamlined design.

Just one word of warning, though. If you need one of the best wireless gaming keyboards you'll need to move a little further up the price scale for a Hall effect model. At the moment, the Keychron Q1 HE Wireless is the best value at $227.99 (was $239.99) at Amazon, but keep an eye on the Glorious GMMK 3 Pro HE for further savings as well.

• See all gaming keyboards at Amazon
• SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 | $239.99 $175.99 at Best Buy
• Keychron Q1 HE | $239.99 $227.99 at Amazon

I'm also rounding up all the best hot-swappable keyboards and best membrane gaming keyboards on the market. Or, take a look at the best gaming mouse models for more setup upgrades.