Gaming remains one of the most popular hobbies all around the world, with a player base that has continued to grow at a rapid pace. The pandemic caused by COVID-19 has also increased interest in gaming, as it’s a safe and accessible way to connect with your friends from home, no matter where they live. However, if you want to game with your friends, you’ll need a good gaming setup, and that includes a gaming keyboard. Keep reading if you’re not sure what to look out for when shopping for your keyboard.
What should you look for in a gaming keyboard?
There are a lot of different keyboard models for gamers to choose from, and the best keyboard for gaming depends a lot on what features you’re looking for. Those who game professionally or who value high performance for competition may want a gaming keyboard that provides the most significant boost to their speed and accuracy. Other gamers might want more options for style customization balanced with great performance. Understanding your gaming style and needs is an important part of finding the best gaming keyboard for you.
When looking for a keyboard, there are a few main decisions you’ll have to make. First, you need to know what kind of switches you want. You’ll also want to measure your desk space to ensure you get a keyboard that’s the perfect size. Aesthetics and lighting style are other major factors for those who are trying to create a certain look for their setup.
If you need some recommendations to get you started, the Razer Huntsman remains one of the best options on the market for those who care about speed and accuracy. Razer understands that a game can be won or lost with just one split-second decision, which is why their tournament edition keyboard is perfect for professional gamers or anyone who wants to play at the highest level. The Pulsar Nova Optical Pro PX100 is another great pick at a slightly lower price point which has swappable red linear mechanical switches and RGB lighting.
What other gaming accessories do you need?
What accessories are most worth investing in depends a lot on what games you play. Anyone who spends a lot of time playing multiplayer games with their friends online will definitely want to pick up a decent headset. A lot of competitive team games require that you be able to talk with the rest of your squad. Professional gamers and esports competitors should be especially particular about their headsets. With so much prize money on the line, you don’t want to lose because you couldn’t communicate.
A gaming chair is another smart buy, especially if you like to play for hours at a time. If you watch streamers on platforms like Twitch, you’ve likely noticed that almost all of them use a gaming chair. That’s because the ergonomic features and additional support can make a big difference in your health and comfort.
Console gamers or those who use a controller when playing on a PC can also look into thumb grips, which give you more control and comfort when using joysticks. Thumb grips are circular pads that slide right over the top of the thumbstick on your controller. For gamers who are familiar with thumb strain, grips can make a big difference.
With a variety of brands to choose from, it’s a good idea to take your time when shopping for gaming accessories. Your keyboard will be a major factor in how well you play and how comfortable your playing experience is, so do some research before deciding which is the best keyboard for you. If you plan to spend a lot of time gaming with your friends, you may want to grab some other equipment like a headset or a gaming chair too. Whether you’re a casual or competitive gamer, it’s worth investing a little money into creating your perfect setup.
