What Gaming Keyboard Should I Buy? Answered Here.
In short -- the answer is to buy a custom keyboard. I list plenty of options here, but allow me to make the argument for why below.
When it comes to having the best gaming setup, the choice of keyboard is pivotal. While there are countless pre-built gaming keyboards on the market, custom keyboards offer a level of personalization and performance that can make your experience infinitely more enjoyable. Here's why you should consider going custom:
Tailored to Your Gaming Style
Custom keyboards allow you to craft a keyboard that fits your specific gaming needs. Whether you're into fast-paced FPS games requiring low actuation points or strategy games where tactile feedback is key, custom keyboards can be tailored to your play style.
- Switch Customization: With custom keyboards, you have the option to have a “hot-swappable” PCB board (the motherboard of your keyboard). This just means that you can swap out the switches on your board whenever you feel like it, without having to solder them on. With most pre-build gaming keyboards today, the switches are soldered onto the board -- meaning that in order to replace them, you have to melt the metal on the back of the plate to release the switch. Then, you have to re-solder your new switches on. Ton of work.
- Volume & Customization: If you want a silent keyboard, you can easily swap to silent switches. If you want something more tactile -- go with clicky ones. The process of swapping switches out doesn’t take more than 20 minutes once you get a hang of it with a custom board.
- Actuation Points: Different boards have different options for actuation points (how fast the switch “activates). If you’re a hardcore FPS gamer and want the actual point to be as quick as possible, you can look for boards that allow for this & swap to your hearts desire.
Unmatched Durability and Quality
Custom keyboards often boast superior build quality, using materials that are not commonly found in mass-produced models:
- Premium Materials: Custom keyboards are typically not mass produced -- meaning they have room to use higher quality materials. From the board housing (the case), to the keycaps, you have the power to choose what you want to use as the material. My personal favorite is to have a full aluminum case keyboard for a good thonky feel, while having super solid double shot PBT keycaps that last a lifetime.
- Customizable Stabilizers: Stabilizers are an unknown feature to most people who aren’t familiar with keyboards -- these are the things that keep your large keys (spacebar, shift, etc) from wobbling around and making too much rattle noise. When you customize your own keyboard, you can change these out to what you find best. You also have the option to apply lube to them to make it as quiet as possible, helping with the feel of the board.
Aesthetic and Ergonomics
For gamers, aesthetics aren't just about looks; they're about integration into your personal space:
- Unique Designs: With all of the options out there, when you make a custom keyboard -- you get to choose what suits you best, unlike with pre-build keyboards that have a specific design made for the masses.
- Size & Ergonomic Adjustments: You can decide if you want a small, big, split, or otherwise unconventional board. The size ranges go from mini 40% keyboards, all the way to full keyboards with numpads. Find whatever your heart desires.
Software and Customization
While pre-built keyboards come with software, custom options often allow deeper, more flexible programming:
- Full Programmability: Unlike some gaming keyboards that have limited software, custom builds can support open-source firmware like QMK or VIA, offering unparalleled customization in key functions and macros.
Community and Support
The custom keyboard community is vast and supportive, providing resources that can enhance your keyboard journey:
- Community Resources: Platforms like Reddit's r/MechanicalKeyboards are treasure troves of advice, where custom keyboards are often praised for their build quality over commercial gaming keyboards.
- DIY Satisfaction: There's a unique joy in building something yourself, akin to building your own PC, which offers satisfaction beyond mere functionality.
The Investment Perspective
While custom keyboards might come with a higher initial cost, they offer:
- Long-term Value: With replaceable parts and upgradable features, your keyboard can evolve with technology or your changing needs, unlike many pre-built models that might become obsolete quicker.
- Resale Value: Well-built custom keyboards often hold their value better in the second-hand market due to their uniqueness and quality.
Now Some Quick Plugs
There are tons of resources out there to find the perfect keyboards and accessories that you need, but if you’re looking for some easy options, check out the links below to our catalog.
Conclusion
Investing in a custom gaming keyboard isn't just about owning a piece of gear; it's about crafting your perfect space. With the ability to tailor every aspect to your gameplay, from switch feel to aesthetic design, custom keyboards not only enhance performance but also bring a personal touch to your setup. If you're looking for the ultimate gaming experience, a custom keyboard might just be the game-changer you need.
Remember, while the upfront cost and time to build a custom keyboard can be higher, the long-term benefits and satisfaction often outweigh those initial hurdles.