If you’re a hardcore gamer, and you’re still missing out on the RGB experience, you’ve got some catching up to do. What better way than to take a trip to the RGB keyboard section? But that’s easier said than done. You need to look at your budget, lighting customization, key switch type, keycaps, portability, software compatibility, build quality, and... Okay, that’s just too much. You get the point.
Let’s face it, the excitement of getting your hands on the best keyboard of 2024 can quickly fade away amidst this overwhelming decision-making process. Luckily, we did the work for you. Let’s dive into the article and help you find the RGB gaming keyboard in 2024 that best caters to your needs.
Corsair K100 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Best Overall See at AmazonNuphy Air96 V2 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Best Minimalistic Design See at AmazonRoccat Vulcan II Max
Best For RGB Fanatics See at AmazonRazer Huntsman Mini Gaming Keyboard
Best For Budget See at AmazonKinesis Freestyle Edge RGB
Best For Comfort $199 at Walmart- See More
Razer BlackWidow V4 75%
Best For Gamers See at Amazon
Best RGB Keyboards Available In 2024
Best OverallCorsair K100 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Best RGB Keyboard In Town
The Corsair K100 is one of the best gaming keyboards in 2024 offering a blend of speed, precision, and aesthetics. It’s designed for gamers who demand high performance and appreciate the added flair of RGB lighting.
Pros & Cons- Extra G gaming keys for enhanced functionality
- Useful iCUE control wheel for easy adjustments
- Premium PBT keycaps for a superior typing experience
- Smart design that combines aesthetics and functionality
- Compatible with both Windows and Mac
- No removable USB cable
- Loud key switch action that might be distracting
When we’re talking about the best RGB keyboard, we hope to see over-the-top RGB, killer hardware, premium build quality, and an affordable price. That’s where the Corsair K100 RGB comes in; in a league of its own. With RGB strips on each side, the top edge, and full RGB backlighting with 44 individually lit keys, it doesn’t get any better than this.
You can also program an RGB lighting dial for profiles and brightness control. Adding on, Corsair’s iCUE's support, allows you to sync RGB with other Corsair peripherals you own. But that’s just the RGB part. The hardware on this thing is just as good. It’s a full-size keyboard with a polling rate of 8000Hz and an update rate of 4000Hz, giving this beast a latency next to none.
The Cherry MX Speed Switches deliver lightning-fast response time, and a smooth linear key response for ultra-fast double and triple taps. This makes the Corsair K100 not only visually stunning but also a top performer in its class. With a sturdy aluminum frame and comfortable double-shot PBT keycaps (except for a few), the build quality is also superb. We also loved the magnetic wrist rest. It is a nice touch for marathon gaming sessions.
So all in all, if you’re into competitive gaming, and love incorporating RGB in your setups, just take your wallet out right now. It’s under $200, and worth every penny.
Best Minimalistic DesignNuphy Air96 V2 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Retro Action
The Nuphy Air96 is a compact, wireless mechanical keyboard that offers a great typing experience. Its low-profile design and high-quality PBT keycaps make it a compelling option for those who value aesthetics and functionality.
Pros & Cons- Great typing experience
- Full-size layout for enhanced productivity
- Versatile enough to double as a gaming keyboard
- Native Windows and MacOS support
- High-quality PBT keycaps
- Flat keys and layout changes may lead to typos
The NuPhy Air96 is a feast for the eyes of any desk aesthete. Unlike bulky keyboards, the Air96 maintains a low-profile design, keeping your setup clean and clutter-free. And the best part is that it still manages to include the numpad.
But minimalism doesn't have to be boring. The NuPhy boasts subtle under-key RGB lighting. It's not a flashy light show – instead, a soft glow emanating from beneath the keycaps, adding a touch of personality without overwhelming the clean look. This tasteful use of RGB lets you showcase a hint of your style without sacrificing the minimalist spirit.
It also comes with high-quality PBT double-shot keycaps with clean fonts that further enhance the uncluttered aesthetic. These textured keycaps feel fantastic under your fingertips. If you’re looking for a retro keyboard that takes you back to the days of IBM and Windows 95, while still packing the RGB flair, this one’s a keeper.
RelatedMechanical Keyboard Vs. Membrane Keyboard: Which Is Better?
If you're still unsure whether to go for mechanical or a membrane keyboard for your PC, check out this guide.
Posts Best For RGB FanaticsRoccat Vulcan II Max
King of RGB
The ROCCAT Vulcan II Max is a high-end gaming keyboard that stands out with its vibrant RGB lighting and fast, responsive keys. It’s designed for gamers who prioritize customization and speed.
Pros & Cons- Attractive design
- Easy-Shift+ adds tons of functionality
- Switches compatible with many third-party keycaps
- Excellent build quality and robust features
- Outstanding RGB lighting is showcased by the low-profile keycaps
- Expensive compared to other models
- No wireless connection options
The ROCCAT Vulcan II Max throws down the gauntlet for RGB dominance. It's arguably one of the best gaming keyboards in 2024 as well. Forget single-color backlighting – each key boasts its own LED, capable of a staggering 16.8 million colors. ROCCAT's AIMO software elevates this to an RGB concert, with lights reacting to your in-game actions for a truly immersive experience. However, the Vulcan II Max prioritizes flash over affordability. This keyboard is a premium product with a premium price tag.
Additionally, the low-profile Titan II optical switches feature a hair-trigger 1.4mm actuation distance, ideal for speed demons, but some might find them overly sensitive compared to the satisfying bump of traditional mechanical switches. So, who should consider the Vulcan II Max? If you're a stat-conscious gamer who prioritizes RGB customization and blazing-fast responsiveness, and your wallet can handle the hit, the Vulcan II Max is a worthy contender for the 2024 RGB keyboard crown. However, budget-minded gamers or those who prefer a more tactile keystroke might be better served looking elsewhere.
Best For BudgetRazer Huntsman Mini Gaming Keyboard
Value For money
The Razer Huntsman Mini is a compact, budget-friendly gaming keyboard that offers a sleek design and high performance. Despite its small size, it doesn’t compromise on functionality or typing experience.
Pros & Cons- Small, sturdy design
- Light switches ideal for gaming
- Textured, shine-free PBT keycaps
- Removable USB-C cable for portability
- Exceptionally low latency for responsive gaming
- Lacks arrow keys
The Razer Huntsman Mini is our top pick for those on a budget. For less than $70, this keyboard offers a sleek black design that will go along with literally any gaming setup. The most notable thing you’ll see right off the bat is its 60% form factor. It does not have the arrow keys or numpad, which saves you a ton of space on the desk.
The RGB on this thing is a visual treat. Huntsman Mini comes with per-key RGB lighting with Doubleshot PBT keycaps that enhance the RGB effects while not compromising on the typing experience. Despite its size, the Huntsman Mini doesn’t compromise on performance. It features Razer’s second-generation Linear Optical switches, offering a light and responsive feel.
Another feature you’ll be pleased to hear is that it comes with a removable USB-C cable, making your portability as good as it gets. This is because wireless keyboards usually compromise on latency and wired ones can be a goner if the wire gets damaged. The Huntsman Mini solves both of these issues. So to put things in perspective, if you’re not worried about the form factor, and you’re on a budget, the Razer Huntsman Mini is as good as it gets in 2024.
Best For ComfortKinesis Freestyle Edge RGB
Say Goodbye to Sore Hands
Brand Kinesis Wireless No Backlight RGB Media Controls No Num Pad NoThe Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB Split is an ergonomic keyboard that prioritizes comfort without compromising on performance. Its split design and per-key RGB integration make it a unique addition to any gaming setup.
Pros & Cons- Supports one-handed play and comfortable typing
- Choice of Cherry MX key switches for a satisfying typing experience
- Price might be a hurdle
- Layout may take some time to get used to
The Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB Split is an ergonomic throne for your wrists. This split design integrates per-key RGB for dazzling customization, but its true beauty lies in comfort. The fully separated halves reduce stress, while the plush wrist rests and optional lift kit (for tenting) keep your wrists in a natural, pain-free position.
This mechanical marvel features your choice of Cherry MX key switches, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. While the price might be a hurdle, the Freestyle Edge RGB Split is an investment in pain-free gaming marathons.
Best For GamersRazer BlackWidow V4 75%
Flashy Beast
The Razer BlackWidow V4 is a feature-packed gaming keyboard that offers a visually stunning design and functional versatility. It’s equipped with dedicated macro keys and a volume scroll bar for ultimate control.
Pros & Cons- Attractive design with gorgeous RGB lighting
- Easy-Shift+ adds tons of functionality
- Switches compatible with many third-party keycaps
- Excellent build quality and robust features
- Dedicated macro keys for in-game combos
- Expensive compared to other models
- No wireless connection options
Powered by Razer Chroma, BlackWidow V4 is made for gamers with both RGB and hardware in mind. It offers per-key backlighting and a striking underglow to transform your setup into a mini-light show. This sleek black beauty boasts a full-sized design with dedicated media keys and a volume scroll bar for ultimate control.
But the real stars of the show are the six dedicated macro keys on the left, perfect for unleashing epic in-game combos. It also comes with ABS plastic keycaps for a textured grip, while the pre-lubed stabilizers keep your typing smooth and quiet. Razer even threw in sound-dampening foam to further minimize noise. This means competitive gamers have a new favorite around.
This feature-packed keyboard maintains a surprisingly compact design thanks to its magnetic (detachable) plush leatherette wrist rest. Available with clicky Razer Green or smooth Razer Yellow switches, the BlackWidow V4 caters to every gamer's preference.
So, if you're looking for a keyboard that's as visually stunning as it is functional, the Razer BlackWidow V4 is a top choice. It's a feast for the eyes, a dream for your fingers, and a worthy addition to any gaming battle station.
FAQ
What are Cherry MX switches?
Cherry MX switches are renowned for their distinct typing experiences, offering clicky, tactile, and linear options. These switches provide different feedback levels, from audible clicks to smooth keystrokes, catering to various typing preferences and styles.
Does RGB lighting affect performance?
RGB lighting is primarily cosmetic and does not impact keyboard performance. While complex lighting effects may slightly increase processing demands, the difference is negligible for modern computers, allowing for extensive customization without compromising functionality.
How many types of keyboards are there?
There are essentially two main categories. Membrane and mechanical. Membrane ones are better for quieter typing, while mechanical ones are usually preferred by gamers for their satisfying keystrokes and customizability.
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