
Of course, we don't think this substitute will match the ease of the best joysticks in something like Elite: Dangerous, but in our testing it was certainly a much smoother experience with the Huntsman V2 Analog in tow. The Razer Huntsman V2 Analog does something we've never experienced before, and it stands out in any lineup of the best gaming keyboards as a result. We were gently ambling around the map instead of pinballing across it, getting the drop on our foes by sneaking up on them slowly. We were surprised by the difference these switches made in Watch Dogs: Legion, for example, giving us precise but subtle movement during our testing, to a level we hadn't experienced before. Although many keyboards struggle with nuance when it comes to in-game movement (changing from 'run' to 'walk' normally requires a hotkey, for example), the Analog imbues the WASD keys with a sense of precision they've never had before. That analog design might not sound like a big deal, but it is. That isn't something we've seen before when it comes to the best gaming keyboards, and this piece of premium kit made a hearty impression as a result. The Razer Huntsman V2 Analog exists to replicate the feel of an analog stick using switches that offer a sliding scale of actuation, rather than a simple on-off clicker. The elevator pitch for this keyboard is right there on the tin. No matter what you choose, the best gaming keyboards will make the perfect companion to the best gaming mouse and the best gaming monitor, completing your setup and - if you stick to a single brand - unlocking some particularly cool RGB effects. You can get quiet, linear switches, noisy and tactile ones, or optical alternatives where your input is registered by laser (these are the fastest).

Each key on a mechanical keyboard has a switch beneath it for greater accuracy, a bump of resistance, and greater durability in the long run. However, if you're going for an upgrade, the best gaming keyboard for you is likely to be a mechanical model. They're much cheaper than their mechanical siblings, while still packing a lot of the RGB and extra macro features that you'd expect from the best gaming keyboards on the market. Membrane gaming keyboards are generally the best starter option. If you're new to all this, you'll need to decide whether you're after a membrane or mechanical deck. We've had our hands on a massive number of decks over the years, and rounded up all our favorite models right here. With brands like Razer, SteelSeries, HyperX, and more all vying for the top spot in a range of different form factors, the hunt for the right gaming keyboard can be overwhelming. However, there are plenty of models out there all doing just that, which can make it difficult to work out which features you need and which you can drop.

The best gaming keyboard will mix function with form - offering a design that feels comfortable and satisfying, while also adding speed, macro programmability, and dedicated playback controls.
