Best picks

9 Best Keyboards for Gaming (November 2026)

Updated on · By the Compute Gear Lab team

The best gaming keyboards include the Redragon S101-3 PRO Gaming Keyboard and Mouse for a full-size starter setup, the AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard for compact wireless customization, and the Redragon S101M-KS Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Wireless for a wireless combo.

On this page (7 sections)
  1. How we chose these gaming keyboards
  2. The best keyboards for gaming by layout and controls
  3. Which gaming keyboard layout should you choose?
  4. Which keyboard technology fits your play style?
  5. Do you need wired or wireless gaming controls?
  6. What features matter beyond the keys?
  7. Which keyboard should you choose for gaming?

The best keyboard for gaming for most people is the Redragon S101-3 PRO, a full-size wired combo with quiet membrane keys, five macro keys and a wrist rest. For a compact wireless mechanical board, consider the AULA F75 Pro; for quieter switches and a magnetic wrist rest, look at the SteelSeries Apex 3.

A gaming keyboard should match your play style and desk. Full-size boards keep the number pad and often add dedicated media buttons, while compact layouts leave more room for mouse movement.

If you're comparing everyday typing features too, our best keyboard for computer guide covers common layouts and controls. These gaming picks range from membrane models to mechanical and magnetic-switch boards.

Our picks at a glance

  1. 1 Redragon S101-3 PRO Gaming Keyboard and Mouse
    Best for a full-size starter setup

    Redragon S101-3 PRO Gaming Keyboard and Mouse

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
    Best for compact wireless customization

    AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 Redragon S101M-KS Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Wireless
    Best for a wireless combo

    Redragon S101M-KS Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Wireless

    9.5/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  1. 4SteelSeries Apex 3 Gaming Keyboard

    SteelSeries Apex 3 Gaming Keyboard

    Best for quiet play with a wrist rest
    Check it
  2. 5TECKNET Wired Gaming Keyboard

    TECKNET Wired Gaming Keyboard

    Best for quiet membrane typing
    Check it
  3. 6Logitech G213 Prodigy Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard

    Logitech G213 Prodigy Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard

    Best for full-size media controls
    Check it
  4. 7Womier SK80 75% Keyboard with Color Multimedia

    Womier SK80 75% Keyboard with Color Multimedia

    Best for a compact display and hot-swap switches
    Check it
  5. 8Logitech G413 SE Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

    Logitech G413 SE Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

    Best for a straightforward mechanical layout
    Check it
  6. 9AULA WIN68 HE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 60%

    AULA WIN68 HE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 60%

    Best for adjustable actuation in a small space
    Check it

How we chose these gaming keyboards

The best gaming keyboards balance useful layouts, control features and connection choices for the way you play. We compared their stated key types, sizes, connectivity, rollover features and included controls.

A full-size board may be convenient if you use the number pad, while 75% and 60% models trade that space for a smaller footprint. Macro support, media buttons, wrist rests and lighting also vary, so consider which features matter during your usual games.

Scores weigh the listed specifications and features against the needs of someone shopping for a gaming keyboard. A higher score reflects a closer match to the broad query, while more specialized choices can fit a narrower use better.

ProductBest forLayoutSwitch typeConnectionOur score
Redragon S101-3 PRO Gaming Keyboard and Mousea full-size starter setupFull-size, 114 keysMembraneUSB wired9.7
AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboardcompact wireless customization75%, 81 keysMechanical, hot-swappableBluetooth, 2.4GHz or USB-C9.6
Redragon S101M-KS Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Wirelessa wireless comboFull-size, 104 keysNot specifiedWired, Bluetooth or 2.4GHz9.5
SteelSeries Apex 3 Gaming Keyboardquiet play with a wrist restFull-size, 104 keysWhisper-quiet gaming switchesWired9.4
TECKNET Wired Gaming Keyboardquiet membrane typingFull-size, 104 keysMembraneUSB-A wired9.3
Logitech G213 Prodigy Wired RGB Gaming Keyboardfull-size media controlsFull-sizeTuned gaming keysUSB wired9.2
Womier SK80 75% Keyboard with Color Multimediaa compact display and hot-swap switches75%, 82 keysMechanical, hot-swappableDetachable USB-C9.0
Logitech G413 SE Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboarda straightforward mechanical layoutFull-sizeTactile mechanicalUSB wired8.4
AULA WIN68 HE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 60%adjustable actuation in a small space60%, 68 keysHall Effect magneticDetachable USB-C wired8.1

The best keyboards for gaming by layout and controls

The right gaming keyboard depends on whether you want a full-size layout, compact keys, quiet typing or customization. These picks are ordered by score, with each one suited to a different setup.

1

Redragon S101-3 PRO Gaming Keyboard and Mouse: Best for a full-size starter setup

Redragon S101-3 PRO Gaming Keyboard and Mouse, gaming keyboards
9.7/10Our score
  • Full-size wired keyboard and mouse
  • RGB lighting
  • 5 macro keys
  • Quiet membrane keys
  • Wrist rest

This combo pairs a full-size RGB keyboard with a mouse, five macro keys and a wrist rest. Its quiet membrane keys suit shared rooms and first gaming setups.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Keyboard and mouse included
  • Five dedicated macro keys
  • Quiet keys and wrist rest

Cons

  • Wired connection
  • Lighting and settings customization uses software

The Redragon S101-3 PRO is a practical starting point if you need both a keyboard and a mouse. For a gaming mouse option, see our Logitech MX Master gaming guide.

Its full-size layout, five independent macro keys and four media keys cover common gaming and desktop controls.

The keyboard uses quiet membrane keys and includes a wrist rest. Redragon also describes the keys as anti-ghosting, which can help when a game calls for several keys at once.

RGB lighting has six modes, and the keyboard's settings can be customized with Redragon software. The wired setup keeps the keyboard connected over USB, so plan for cable space on your desk.

For more options, see our wired keyboards for PC guide.

Choose this set if you want a full-size board and mouse together, or if quieter membrane keys suit your room. If you already own a mouse, compare it with standalone wired gaming keyboards before deciding.

Redragon S101-3 PRO Gaming Keyboard and MouseCheck it on Amazon
2

AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard: Best for compact wireless customization

AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, gaming keyboards
9.6/10Our score
  • 75% layout with arrow keys
  • Bluetooth, 2.4GHz and USB-C
  • Hot-swappable switches
  • Multi-function knob

The 75% layout keeps arrow keys while saving desk space. Tri-mode connection, switch swapping and a control knob offer options for gaming and everyday use.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Three connection modes
  • Retains arrow keys in a compact layout
  • Supports 3-pin and 5-pin switch replacement

Cons

  • Does not include a number pad
  • Keycap layout is listed as QWERTZ

The AULA F75 Pro suits a smaller desk where you still want arrow keys and mechanical switches. Its 75% layout has 81 keys, and a knob can adjust lighting or media controls depending on the selected mode.

You can connect it over Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless or USB-C, and it supports up to five devices. For other wireless options, see wireless gaming keyboards.

Hot-swappable sockets accept 3-pin or 5-pin switches, which gives you a way to change the feel later.

This keyboard includes RGB lighting, programmable keys and a Windows key lock. The listed key layout is QWERTZ, so check that it matches the layout you use before choosing it.

Pick the F75 Pro if layout flexibility and switch customization matter more than a number pad. For more compact wireless options, see our wireless TKL gaming keyboard guide.

AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical KeyboardCheck it on Amazon
3

Redragon S101M-KS Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Wireless: Best for a wireless combo

Redragon S101M-KS Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Wireless, gaming keyboards
9.5/10Our score
  • Keyboard and mouse included
  • Wired, Bluetooth and 2.4GHz modes
  • 10 independent multimedia keys
  • RGB lighting

This keyboard and mouse set offers three connection modes, programmable controls and separate multimedia keys. One 2.4GHz receiver can connect both devices.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Keyboard and mouse in one set
  • Three connection modes
  • Dedicated media keys and Windows key lock

Cons

  • Windows compatibility is specified
  • Software is needed for customization

The Redragon S101M-KS is the wireless combo pick for buyers who want the keyboard and mouse to share a setup. It supports wired, Bluetooth and 2.4GHz modes, and one 2.4GHz receiver can control both devices.

The full-size keyboard has 104 keys, RGB backlighting, 10 independent multimedia keys and 12 shortcut media functions. Redragon says its battery can last up to 300 hours with RGB turned off.

The keyboard and mouse can be customized through software, including key functions, lighting and mouse settings. The keyboard also has a Windows lock function and a detachable USB-C cable for wired use.

Choose it if wireless flexibility matters and you need both devices. Our wireless gaming keyboard and mouse combo picks compare more sets, while the mechanical keyboard and mouse combo guide is aimed at buyers who want mechanical keys.

Redragon S101M-KS Gaming Keyboard and Mouse WirelessCheck it on Amazon
4

SteelSeries Apex 3 Gaming Keyboard: Best for quiet play with a wrist rest

SteelSeries Apex 3 Gaming Keyboard, gaming keyboards
9.4/10Our score
  • Whisper-quiet switches
  • Magnetic wrist rest
  • 10-zone RGB
  • IP32 water resistance

Quiet switches and a magnetic wrist rest make the Apex 3 a fit for shared spaces and longer sessions. It also has dedicated media controls and 10-zone lighting.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Quiet switch design
  • Magnetic wrist rest
  • Compatible with Windows, Mac, Xbox and PlayStation

Cons

  • Wired connection
  • Full-size layout takes more desk space

The SteelSeries Apex 3 is a good fit for a shared room where keyboard noise matters. For office typing, compare our quiet keyboards for office work guide.

It uses whisper-quiet gaming switches and includes a magnetic wrist rest for palm support.

Its full-size layout has dedicated multimedia controls, and 10-zone RGB lighting lets you set different color areas. The board is IP32 water resistant, a feature aimed at protection from accidental liquid spills.

SteelSeries lists compatibility with Windows, Mac OS X, Xbox Series S and X, PS4 and PS5. The wired connection is straightforward, but its full-size footprint needs more desk space than the compact models here.

Pick the Apex 3 for quiet switches, media controls and a wrist rest. If low sound is your main priority, our quiet gaming keyboard guide focuses on that need.

SteelSeries Apex 3 Gaming KeyboardCheck it on Amazon
5

TECKNET Wired Gaming Keyboard: Best for quiet membrane typing

TECKNET Wired Gaming Keyboard, gaming keyboards
9.3/10Our score
  • Membrane keys
  • 15-zone rainbow backlighting
  • 25 anti-ghosting keys
  • Integrated wrist rest

This quiet membrane keyboard combines a wrist rest with 25 anti-ghosting keys and dedicated multimedia controls. Its backlight has multiple modes and brightness levels.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Quiet membrane design
  • 25 anti-ghosting keys
  • IP32 spill resistance

Cons

  • Multimedia keys are not compatible with Mac
  • Backlight turns off after inactivity

The TECKNET wired keyboard combines quiet membrane keys with an integrated wrist rest and full-size layout. Its 25 anti-ghosting keys are useful if your game uses multiple simultaneous inputs.

The board has 15-zone rainbow lighting, seven illumination modes and four brightness levels. It also includes 12 multimedia keys, though TECKNET says those keys are not compatible with Mac.

IP32 spill resistance and drainage holes in the wrist rest offer some protection from small spills. The backlight turns off after inactivity and can be woken with a key press or Fn+PgDn.

Choose this model if quiet membrane typing and a wrist rest matter more than wireless use. For a lower-cost shortlist, compare our gaming keyboards under 50 dollars.

TECKNET Wired Gaming KeyboardCheck it on Amazon
6

Logitech G213 Prodigy Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard: Best for full-size media controls

Logitech G213 Prodigy Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard, gaming keyboards
9.2/10Our score
  • Five customizable lighting zones
  • Dedicated media controls
  • Integrated palm rest
  • Adjustable feet

The G213 combines a full-size layout with dedicated media buttons, an integrated palm rest and customizable lighting. Its anti-ghosting matrix supports simultaneous key presses.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Dedicated play, pause and volume controls
  • Integrated palm rest
  • Lighting and macros can be customized

Cons

  • Wired connection
  • Lighting customization uses Logitech G HUB

The Logitech G213 suits players who want full-size keys and quick access to media controls. Its integrated palm rest and adjustable feet also let you set the keyboard angle and hand position.

The board has five customizable lighting zones and a gaming matrix designed for multiple key presses. Logitech describes the keys as tuned for responsive feedback, and the keyboard is built to resist liquids, crumbs and dirt.

Dedicated controls handle play, pause, mute and volume without relying on function shortcuts. Lighting, game mode and macro programming use Logitech G HUB software.

Choose the G213 if you want a full-size wired keyboard with separate media buttons and a palm rest. For more speed-focused options, browse our gaming keyboards for fast response.

Logitech G213 Prodigy Wired RGB Gaming KeyboardCheck it on Amazon
7

Womier SK80 75% Keyboard with Color Multimedia: Best for a compact display and hot-swap switches

Womier SK80 75% Keyboard with Color Multimedia, gaming keyboards
9.0/10Our score
  • 75% layout
  • Customizable color display
  • Hot-swappable switches
  • RGB lighting

The compact SK80 adds a color display for visual settings and media information. Hot-swappable switches and customizable lighting suit buyers who want to adjust their setup.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Color display supports custom GIFs
  • Supports 3-pin and 5-pin switch swaps
  • Detachable USB-C connection

Cons

  • No wireless connection specified
  • Layout leaves out a full number pad

The Womier SK80 pairs a 75% mechanical layout with a customizable color display. The screen can show settings such as connection mode, lighting, volume and custom GIF images.

Its hot-swappable board supports 3-pin or 5-pin switches, and the USB-C cable is detachable. The compact layout saves space compared with a full-size keyboard, though you give up a separate number pad.

RGB lighting includes 19 effects and nine colors. Womier's software can customize lighting, macros and the display, and the keyboard supports Windows and Mac systems.

Pick the SK80 if a display and switch customization are more useful to you than wireless connection. Buyers choosing a white setup can compare our white gaming keyboards and white wireless gaming keyboard picks.

Womier SK80 75% Keyboard with Color MultimediaCheck it on Amazon
8

Logitech G413 SE Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard: Best for a straightforward mechanical layout

Logitech G413 SE Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, gaming keyboards
8.4/10Our score
  • Tactile mechanical switches
  • PBT keycaps
  • White LED lighting
  • 6-key rollover anti-ghosting

The G413 SE pairs tactile mechanical switches with PBT keycaps and a full-size layout. Function-key shortcuts handle media and lighting controls.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Tactile mechanical switches
  • PBT keycaps
  • Brushed aluminum top case

Cons

  • Single-color white backlighting
  • Media controls use function-key shortcuts

The Logitech G413 SE is a full-size mechanical option with tactile switches and PBT keycaps. Its white LED backlighting is a single color, making it a simpler lighting choice than the RGB models above.

The keyboard uses a brushed aluminum top case and has 6-key rollover anti-ghosting. Twelve function-key shortcuts handle media, lighting and Windows lock controls.

This wired model is built around a standard full-size layout. Logitech also offers a separate tenkeyless version, so check the exact model if you want a smaller board.

Choose the G413 SE for tactile mechanical keys and a full-size layout without multi-zone RGB. If you're buying for a console, check our guides to a wireless keyboard for PS5 or a wireless keyboard for Xbox Series X.

Logitech G413 SE Full-Size Mechanical Gaming KeyboardCheck it on Amazon
9

AULA WIN68 HE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 60%: Best for adjustable actuation in a small space

AULA WIN68 HE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 60%, gaming keyboards
8.1/10Our score
  • 60% compact layout
  • Hall Effect magnetic switches
  • Adjustable actuation
  • 8000Hz polling rate

This compact keyboard offers adjustable actuation settings and a detachable cable. Its small layout saves desk space, with some commands accessed through Fn combinations.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Adjustable actuation point
  • Compact 68-key layout
  • RGB lighting can be turned off

Cons

  • Web driver supports Windows, not Mac
  • Some commands require Fn combinations

The AULA WIN68 HE is the compact pick for players who want to adjust how far keys need to travel before registering. Its Hall Effect magnetic switches have an adjustable actuation point, and the keyboard uses a wired USB-C connection.

The 68-key layout saves desk space and retains arrow keys, while other commands use Fn combinations. AULA lists an 8000Hz polling rate and a detachable cable.

Its web driver can adjust key mapping, macros, lighting and other settings on Windows. AULA says the driver does not support Mac, so this model is best suited to a Windows setup.

Choose the WIN68 HE if actuation adjustment and a compact footprint are priorities. If you prefer a specific brand, our Razer wireless keyboard guide covers another route.

AULA WIN68 HE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 60%Check it on Amazon

Which gaming keyboard layout should you choose?

Choose full-size if you use a number pad and want dedicated controls close at hand. A compact layout can create more room for your mouse, but you may need to use Fn shortcuts for keys that are not present.

A 75% keyboard keeps arrow keys while trimming the number pad and other space. A 60% board is smaller still, so check its function shortcuts before moving from a full-size layout.

Which keyboard technology fits your play style?

Mechanical boards give you a choice of switch feel, and hot-swap support lets you replace compatible switches without soldering. The AULA F75 Pro and Womier SK80 support hot-swappable switches, while the Logitech G413 SE has tactile mechanical switches.

Membrane models like the Redragon S101-3 PRO and TECKNET can be a better fit when you want quieter key presses. Hall Effect magnetic switches, as used by the AULA WIN68 HE, offer adjustable actuation for players who want to tune key response.

Do you need wired or wireless gaming controls?

Wired keyboards keep a direct cable connection and avoid charging the keyboard. Wireless choices can reduce desk cables, and some models support more than one connection mode.

The AULA F75 Pro supports Bluetooth, 2.4GHz and USB-C, while the Redragon S101M-KS also supports three modes and includes a mouse. Compare connection options with your computer or console before choosing a keyboard.

What features matter beyond the keys?

Media buttons, macro keys and wrist rests can change how convenient a keyboard feels at your desk. Anti-ghosting or rollover details also matter if your games use multiple key presses together.

Lighting is mostly a matter of preference, but software controls can matter if you plan to change macros or key behavior. Check operating system support when a keyboard's customization tools are part of your plan.

Which keyboard should you choose for gaming?

Choose the Redragon S101-3 PRO for a full-size wired combo with quiet keys, macro controls and a wrist rest. Pick the AULA F75 Pro if you want a compact wireless mechanical layout, or the SteelSeries Apex 3 for quiet switches, media controls and a magnetic wrist rest.

For a smaller space with adjustable magnetic switches, consider the AULA WIN68 HE. Choose by layout, switch type and connection first, then narrow the options by the controls and extras you'll actually use.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

  1. 1 Redragon S101-3 PRO Gaming Keyboard and Mouse
    Best for a full-size starter setup

    Redragon S101-3 PRO Gaming Keyboard and Mouse

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
    Best for compact wireless customization

    AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 Redragon S101M-KS Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Wireless
    Best for a wireless combo

    Redragon S101M-KS Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Wireless

    9.5/10 our score

    See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What keyboard layout is best for gaming?

A full-size keyboard keeps a number pad and dedicated controls, while a 75% layout saves space and retains arrow keys. A 60% or similarly small layout frees more desk room but relies more on Fn shortcuts.

Choose based on the keys you use during play and the space available for your mouse.

Are mechanical keyboards better for gaming?

Mechanical keyboards offer distinct switch types and, on some models here, hot-swappable switches. Membrane keyboards can be quieter and may suit shared rooms.

The better choice depends on the key feel, sound and layout you prefer.

Switch type alone does not tell you which keyboard will fit your games.

Is a wireless keyboard good for gaming?

A wireless keyboard can reduce cable clutter, and some models also offer a wired mode. Check which connection options the keyboard supports and whether its layout includes the keys you need.

For wireless setup details and more options, see our guide to wireless gaming keyboards.

What is anti-ghosting on a gaming keyboard?

Anti-ghosting helps a keyboard register multiple keys pressed together. The TECKNET specifies 25 anti-ghosting keys, while the Logitech G413 SE specifies 6-key rollover.

If your game uses several simultaneous inputs, check the keyboard's stated rollover or anti-ghosting support.

Should I choose a gaming keyboard and mouse combo?

A combo can cover both input devices in one purchase and keep the keyboard and mouse connection options aligned. The Redragon S101-3 PRO is a wired set, while the S101M-KS adds wireless modes.

Compare the included mouse and keyboard features with what you need, or browse our gaming keyboard and mouse combo picks.