6 Fastest Gaming Keyboard In 2023
Getting an advantage in fast-paced games requires a combination of skills and the right equipment. While practice is the key to improving your in-game abilities, choosing the quickest gaming keyboard can give you a competitive edge.
Because when it comes to online gaming, even a few milliseconds can change the outcome of a match.
| Model | Razer Huntsman V2 | Corsair K100 | Logitech G915 | Roccat Vulcan Pro | SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL | ROG Strix Scope RX |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Response Time | 1ms | 1ms | 1ms | 1ms | 1ms | 1ms |
| Key Travel | 3.6mm | 3.4mm | 2.7mm | 3.8mm | 3.8mm | 4mm |
| Dimension | 3.55 x 17.53 x 1.2 in | 19.3 x 3.2 x 9.4 in | 9 x 20.25 x 1.25 in | 19.65 x 2.28 x 8.03 in | 5.04 x 14 x 1.65 in | 18.91 x 7.49 x 1.97 in |
| Polling Rate | 8000Hz | 4000Hz | – | 1000Hz | 1000Hz | 1000Hz |
| Connectivity | Wired | Wired | Wireless | Wired | Wired/Wireless | Wired |
| Switches | Analog Optical Switches | OPX Optical Switches | Low-Profile GL Switches | Linear/red optical Titan switches | OmniPoint 2.0 switches | Red Optical Mechanical Switches |
| RGB | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Razer Huntsman V2 (1 msec)
The Razer Huntsman V2 is an amazing gaming keyboard that boasts impressive features and a premium build quality. It uses Razer’s analog optical switches, which provides faster response, making it ideal for gaming
The analog optical switches offer a more nuanced approach to detecting key presses compared to traditional binary input methods. With an actuation range of 1.5 to 3.6 mm, switches can be adjusted via Razer Synapse to meet your preference, offering different kinds of benefits at every height.
It comes with a magnetic leatherette wrist rest for added comfort, and a 3.0 port for convenience of plugging any devices or a USB within your arms reach.
In terms of performance, the Huntsman V2 shines. The opto-mechanical switches deliver a satisfying click with each keystroke, and the actuation force and travel distance are well balanced for both typing and gaming. The keyboard is also responsive and accurate, with no noticeable lag or ghosting.
The Razer Synapse software allows users to program macros, customize lighting, adjust switches height and access a variety of settings. The software is user-friendly and easy to navigate, and offers a wide range of customization options.
Verdict
The Razer Huntsman V2 is an outstanding gaming keyboard, primarily due to its impressively low latency. Our model features Razer Linear Optical switches with minimal pre-travel distance and light actuation force, resulting in a highly responsive experience.
Users can assign macros to any key directly on the keyboard or through the Synapse 3 software. Additionally, the keyboard boasts customizable RGB lighting, dual incline adjustments, and a plush leatherette wrist rest.
Despite its solid construction, there is some noticeable wobble in the larger keys, and a few of them produce a distinct sound and feel compared to the smaller keys.
Corsair K100 RGB (1 msec)
The Corsair K100 RGB is a high-end gaming keyboard with a sleek and stylish design and a brushed aluminum frame, making it look as good as it performs.
The keyboard has six programmable macro keys, allowing gamers to set macros to quickly execute commands or actions. This can be useful in gaming and productivity, making combos quicker and easier to complete.
The K100 weighs just under three pounds, and it is heavier than most of the full-sized keyboards, and the dimensions is also bigger. So, make sure you have enough space on your desk to fit the keyboard and the wrist rest.
The unit that I have came with optical switches, but you can also buy it with Cherry MX switches (Speed variant). On the left, it has 6 G keys, that can be used to setup macros using the iCue software. The PBT keycaps it comes with are the most durable ones and can withstand 150 million keystrokes.
The optical-mechanical switches are very sensitive, with an actuation force of 45 grams and 4000Hz polling rate. With a high price tag the K100 isn’t for everyone but those who can use it’s true potential.
Verdict
The Corsair K100 is an excellent choice for gamers, boasting a sturdy construction and comfortable usability, along with customizable RGB lighting.
Its Cherry MX Speed switches require minimal operating force and feature a short pre-travel distance, while the incredibly low latency is achieved through an 8000Hz polling rate.
The keyboard is also available with Corsair OPX switches, which claim an even shorter pre-travel distance for a slightly more responsive feel.
All keys support macro programming, and there are six dedicated macro keys on the left side for added convenience.
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Logitech G915 (1 msec)
The Logitech G915 keyboard is a top choice for gamers. Its low profile switches offer quick response and satisfying tactile feedback. The latency is kept to a minimum, making it a great option for gaming.
The built-in media controls make adjusting audio simple, even during gameplay, and the added macro keys are a great feature. Lastly, the full RGB backlighting makes it an ideal option for those who prefer gaming in low light conditions.
The construction of this keyboard is excellent, featuring a sturdy metal frame and a durable plastic backing. With two tilt options and rubber pads on the feet, it stays in place and won’t slip during use.
The keyboard also boasts full RGB backlighting, which can be easily customized through the Logitech G HUB software. This gives you the ability to individually adjust the lighting for each key.
The Logitech G915 include dedicated media controls on the top right and a column of specialized macro keys on the left. You can store up to three distinct profiles using the G HUB software, and quickly toggle between them using the M1, M2, and M3 buttons on the top left.
Each profile can be equipped with five custom macros, providing a potential total of 15 macros. Additionally, the MR button allows for direct recording of macros without utilizing the software, and the wireless connection and Bluetooth buttons offer seamless switching between paired devices.
Verdict
The Logitech G915 stands out as a remarkable gaming keyboard. Its low-profile switches offer excellent responsiveness and satisfying tactile feedback, while the keyboard itself boasts incredibly low latency.
The inclusion of dedicated media controls enables you to manage audio without interrupting gameplay, and the dedicated macro keys add extra functionality.
For those who enjoy gaming in dimly lit environments, the full RGB backlighting is an added bonus.
Roccat Vulcan Pro (1 msec)
The ROCCAT Vulcan Pro is exceptional for gaming. The optical switches provide a quick and responsive gaming experience. These switches are lightweight and have a minimal pre-travel distance, making them perfect for fast-paced gaming.
The keyboard also features full RGB backlighting and allows for the setting of macros on some keys, though not all. Additionally, the keyboard is sturdy in construction and boasts ergonomic design, contributing to a comfortable gaming experience.
The ROCCAT Vulcan Pro is a full-sized keyboard that requires a considerable amount of desk space. However, if you are looking to conserve space, you can opt for the ROCCAT Vulcan TKL Pro which is a tenkeyless variant.
The ROCCAT Vulcan Pro boasts excellent ergonomic features, with a single tilt setting and a wrist rest that can be attached through magnetic means. However, the flat design of the keys may take some adaptation period.
The RGB settings can be personalized through the specialized software and it works with the AIMO Intelligent Lighting engine, allowing for seamless synchronization of the RGB lighting with other equipment. The keycaps have a flat design and the transparent switches allow for ample light transmission.
The keyboard has media hotkeys and a dedicated volume dial for easy control. It also has mute/unmute buttons located next to the dial. You can activate Game Mode by pressing Fn + Scroll Lock to prevent the Windows key from minimizing your game.
In Game Mode, you can use the macros you set for the M1 to M6 keys above the arrow keys. The keyboard also has an Easy-Shift[+] function, which allows you to set macros to the alphanumeric keys on the left side, such as 5, T, G, and B, by holding down the Caps Lock button.
The remaining keys can’t be used for macros, but they can be reprogrammed with a limited list of functions.
Verdict
The ROCCAT Vulcan Pro excels in gaming performance. Its proprietary optical switches require light pressure and have a minimal pre-travel distance, offering a swift gaming experience.
The keyboard features full RGB backlighting, and while macros can be assigned to some keys, not all support this function.
Additionally, the Vulcan Pro boasts a well-constructed design and provides good ergonomics for user comfort.
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL 2023 Edition (1 msec)
This is the first SteelSeries keyboards to offer adjustable switches. The Apex Pro not only boasts customizable actuation but also dual ones. Both of these features are great for gaming, especially if you are playing online games where speed matters.
It also comes with a smart OLED display, and a magnetic wrist rest. However, it is a bit pricey being a wired keyboard. But if you use all of the features it offer, I can say it is worth the price.
You will find the smart OLED display on the upper right, which showcases settings, profiles, and updates. There are two specific media keys, a clickable roller and media button is available. As a gaming keyboard, it also feature customizable RGB lighting.
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL is a feature-packed TKL gaming keyboard that offers adjustable actuation point, dual-actuation capability, and new switches that are both fast and durable. It is made of high grade aluminum and fade-proof PBT keycaps. This is a very rigid build.
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL comes with OmniPoint 2.0 adjustable mechanical switches, which promise quicker response and faster actuation. The improvements may not be noticeable for casual gamers, but will benefit those who play fast-paced games.
The keyboard offers a smooth and responsive gaming experience with a satisfying mechanical feel, but with minimal noise. The only drawback is that the roller has some resistance, which is not a major issue for gaming purposes.
Verdict
The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL 2023 is a top-notch gaming keyboard, featuring impressively low latency. Its unique OmniPoint switches enable you to adjust the keypress sensitivity to match your preferences and the specific game you’re playing.
The keyboard boasts a sturdy construction, and the PBT keycaps offer a satisfying texture for enhanced grip. Additionally, the inclusion of a wrist rest provides extra comfort, a feature not commonly found in compact TKL keyboards.
Read: What are Macro Keys on a keyboard
ROG Strix Scope RX (1.0 msec)
The Asus ROG Strix Scope RX is an attractive keyboard featuring optical switches, per-key RGB lighting, and various gaming-oriented features. Its only drawbacks are its smaller dimension and keycaps.
The keyboard boasts a sleek black and gray color scheme, highlighted by RGB backlighting and an eye-catching ROG logo in the top-right corner. The keycap lighting shines brightly and evenly, while the aluminum top plate reflects the lights beautifully without appearing too glossy.
Unfortunately, there are no specific media keys on this keyboard. However, Asus has prioritized media controls by printing the legends for the function row on the front of each keycap instead of the top.
This is a thoughtful design choice. The same approach is applied to the secondary functions of other keys, such as changing profiles and controlling lighting.
The ROG Strix Scope RX provides a convenient feature of USB 2.0 passthrough, bringing a USB Type-A port closer to the user, which some may find useful. However, this is a wired keyboard with two different USB connectors at its end.
This keyboard is designed to excel in gaming. The optical switches are not only durable than traditional mechanical switches, but more responsive too. Also, this is the cheapest keyboard on this list.
Verdict
The ASUS ROG Strix Scope TKL stands out as a superb gaming keyboard, featuring top-notch build quality, RGB backlighting, and programmable macro keys.
The Cherry MX Brown switches on our model are light and responsive, and a variety of Cherry MX switch options are available to cater to individual preferences. However, its slightly higher latency for a wired keyboard may not be optimal for competitive gamers.
Also Read: Choosing Mechanical Switches for keyboards
