Best gaming keyboards

By Craig Simms | October 17, 2011 | 1

About The Author

Craig Simms

Follow @craigsimmsau

CNET Editor

Craig was sucked into the endless vortex of tech at an early age, only to be spat back out babbling things like "phase-locked-loop crystal oscillators!". Mostly this receives a pat on the head from the listener, followed closely by a question about what laptop they should buy.

Clickety-clack. The keyboard is often overlooked as a gaming peripheral compared to the mouse.

And yet it's vital to have a high response keyboard that can take multiple key presses and have a comfortable action not just for gaming, but for applications, too. Even if you're one of those people who just permanently holds down the "W" key, you need to think about comfort and longevity.

Here's our favourite gaming keyboards that we've tested to date.

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Razer BlackWidow Ultimate
1 of 5

CNET Rating9.0

Price:AU$199.00

Where To Buy
$178 to $199
at 2 stores

It's a steep price to pay (though savvy users will be able to get it for AU$50 cheaper than the RRP), and the noise makes it unsuitable for communal areas, but for those who want one of the best keyboard responses around, the BlackWidow Ultimate should be very high on the list. Full Review »
The Good
- Mechanical key-presses are a satisfaction unto themselves, Backlit, USB and headphone/mic pass-throughs give ease-of-access to ports, Flexible macro and customisation system, Heavier than many laptops
The Bad
- Clack clack clack ... don't expect this to be quiet ..., Or cheap