Gaming keyboards

Gaming keyboards in this category include mechanical, optical, magnetic and membrane models for players, from full-size boards to small 65% and 75% layouts.

Our range has over 600 models, including Logitech, Razer, Redragon, Genesis and ASUS. You will find both wired and wireless keyboards.

How to choose a gaming keyboard

Switch type. Most keyboards in our range are mechanical, and there are also magnetic-mechanical, optical, opto-mechanical and membrane models. Mechanical switches give a distinct keypress and last a long time, while membrane keyboards are quieter and usually simpler. Many magnetic switches let you adjust the actuation point, which helps in fast shooters.

Keyboard size. A full-size keyboard has a number pad, while a tenkeyless model is narrower and leaves more room for mouse movement. 65% and 75% layouts are smaller still but keep the arrow keys, and a 96% board fits a number pad into a shorter body. If you play with wide mouse sweeps, choose a smaller layout.

Connection. Wired USB keyboards need no battery and have no wireless dropouts, which is why they are the largest group in our range. Wireless models connect through a 2.4 GHz receiver or Bluetooth, and some support both: the receiver suits gaming, while Bluetooth is handy for a laptop or tablet.

Backlighting and software. Many keyboards have multicolour or RGB lighting, which makes keys easier to find in a dark room. The manufacturer's software often matters more than the lighting effects, since it lets you assign macros and save profiles.

Gaming keyboard brands we carry

• Logitech: the largest brand in our range, known for the Logitech G gaming line and Lightspeed wireless technology.
• Razer: known for its own mechanical and optical switches and the Razer Synapse software for lighting and macros.
• Cherry: created the Cherry MX switches that many other manufacturers use.
• Ducky: specialises in mechanical keyboards, which are often chosen by enthusiasts.
• ASUS: makes its gaming keyboards under the ROG line, designed to match other ROG accessories.
• Redragon and Genesis: offer mechanical gaming keyboards at more affordable levels.

Also in our range: White Shark, Sharkoon, MSI, Lenovo and HyperX.

Gaming keyboard FAQ

Is a mechanical keyboard better for gaming than a membrane one?

Most gamers choose mechanical keyboards because they respond more distinctly to each keypress and last longer. Membrane keyboards are quieter and suit occasional players or shared rooms. Our range includes both types.

Is a wireless keyboard worth choosing for gaming?

Yes, as long as it connects through a 2.4 GHz receiver, since latency is rarely a problem for gaming. Bluetooth is more convenient for everyday use, and a wired keyboard remains the simplest option because it never needs charging.

What size of gaming keyboard should I choose?

If you use a number pad, choose a full-size or 96% keyboard. Players who need room for the mouse are usually better off with a tenkeyless, 75% or 65% model. The smallest layouts drop the function row or number pad, so some commands will need Fn key combinations.

What is the difference between optical and magnetic switches?

Optical switches detect a keypress with a beam of light, so there are no metal contacts to wear down. Magnetic switches read the key position from a magnetic field, and many models let you adjust the actuation point. Both are built for fast response, although mechanical switches are still the most common.