Choosing a gaming keyboard: look at size, switches and layout

Buying a gaming keyboard seems straightforward until you have to choose between mechanical, membrane, wireless, 60%, 65% or 75%. Marketing often focuses on RGB lighting, extremely short response times and high polling rates. Yet it is mainly the layout, switch type and connection that determine whether a keyboard works well for your needs.

Also watch out for these common pitfalls:

• A compact size without clearly defined function keys: on a 60% keyboard, separate arrow keys, function keys and navigation keys are usually missing. You then use combinations with the Fn key.
• Confusing “mechanical feel” with mechanical switches: some membrane keyboards use this description for the key feel. That is not the same as a mechanical gaming keyboard with individual switches.
• High technical figures without practical benefits: an 8000 Hz polling rate or adjustable actuation point may be interesting for competitive players, but is not automatically necessary for casual gaming, typing or office work.
• The wrong QWERTY layout: a QWERTY US keyboard may have a different Enter key, symbols and key layout from the one you are used to. Check the product photos and specifications before ordering.

Which specifications should you check?

1. Size: 60%, 65%, 75%, TKL or full-size

The size determines how much room you have left for your mouse and which keys are available.

• 60% keyboard: usually 61 keys. Compact and easy to carry, but without separate arrow, navigation and function keys.
• 65% keyboard: usually retains the arrow keys and some navigation keys. A practical compromise for gaming and everyday typing.
• 75% keyboard: often provides function keys and arrow keys in a compact case. According to the product specifications, the AJAZZ AK820 has a 75% layout with 82 keys and a volume knob.
• TKL keyboard: a TenKeyLess model without a numeric keypad. You get more room for your mouse while retaining the function and navigation keys.
• Full-size: includes a numeric keypad. This is useful for administration, spreadsheets and frequent data entry, but takes up more desk space.

A compact gaming keyboard is therefore not necessarily more convenient. If you often work with numbers, a full-size model may be the better choice. If you mainly play shooters, you may appreciate the extra mouse space offered by a 60%, 65% or TKL model.

2. Switch technology and noise level

A mechanical gaming keyboard uses individual switches beneath the keycaps. Linear switches usually provide a consistent keystroke without a tactile click. Clicky switches, on the other hand, produce a distinct click and can be disruptive in a shared space.

Pay attention to the difference between:

• Mechanical: individual mechanical switches, often replaceable on a hot-swappable keyboard.
• Optical: registers a keystroke using light; according to the product specifications, the Razer Huntsman Mini uses optical switches.
• Membrane: quieter and often more affordable, but with a different key feel.
• Scissor keys: low-profile, quiet keys like those found on a laptop; the Trust Vaiya is fitted with these.
• Hall Effect: magnetic switches whose actuation point can be adjusted in software. This is mainly found on models designed for competitive gaming.

A hot-swappable keyboard may be appealing if you want to replace the switches later without soldering. However, check whether 3-pin or 5-pin switches are supported. The AJAZZ AK820’s product information states that both types are supported.

3. Connection, layout and extra features

A wired keyboard connects via USB and does not need a battery. For a fixed desktop setup, this is simple and predictable. A wireless keyboard offers greater flexibility, but check the connection method, battery life and charging requirements.

The following points are also useful to consider:

• RGB keyboard: lighting is useful in low ambient light, but says nothing about the key feel or durability.
• Volume knob: a keyboard with a volume knob is handy during gaming, video calls and streaming.
• N-key rollover: allows multiple simultaneous keystrokes to be registered. Check that this is actually stated in the specifications.
• PBT keycaps: are generally described as more wear-resistant than ABS. According to AJAZZ’s product information, the AK820 keycaps are made from PBT.
• Water or spill resistance: an IPX4 rating for the circuit board does not mean that the entire keyboard is waterproof. The MageGee TS91 also states that its connection is not waterproof. Treat this as limited protection, not permission to submerge the keyboard.

Recommended gaming keyboards by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

MageGee TS91 60% Wired Gaming Keyboard

Why it suits this profile: This wired 60% model is aimed at users looking for a small keyboard with RGB lighting for gaming, home use and office work. The product information describes a membrane design with a mechanical feel.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications make it clear that this is a membrane keyboard. Do not expect individual mechanical switches or a hot-swappable construction.

Main benefit & advantages

61 keys, a wired USB connection, RGB lighting and a compact design. The manufacturer states that the circuit board has IPX4 protection; the connection itself is not waterproof.

Suitable for: Buyers seeking premium quality

AJAZZ AK820 75% Wired Mechanical Keyboard

Why it suits this profile: For anyone who wants to combine a mechanical gaming keyboard with a compact layout, PBT keycaps and direct volume control.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 75% layout retains more functions than a 60% model. The product specifications also mention a wired Type-C connection and a hot-swappable 3/5-pin PCB.

Main benefit & advantages

82 keys, a CNC volume knob, PBT keycaps, gasket construction and, according to the manufacturer, multiple sound-dampening layers.

Suitable for: Specialist use & intensive users

Redragon M68 Magnetic Switch Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Why it suits this profile: According to the product information, this 65% model is designed for competitive PC games such as Valorant, CS2 and Apex Legends, with Hall Effect technology.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description explicitly mentions Hall Effect magnetic switches, an adjustable actuation point from 0,2 to 4,0 mm and Rapid Trigger. Before buying, check whether you want to use these features in the software.

Main benefit & advantages

68 keys, an aluminium top plate, RGB lighting, a detachable Type-C cable and, according to the manufacturer, an 8000 Hz polling rate.

Suitable for: Home workers and multitaskers

Trust Vaiya Wireless Keyboard

Why it suits this profile: The full-size layout with numeric keypad and quiet scissor keys is well suited to work, spreadsheets and switching between a laptop, tablet and smartphone.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly states that this is neither a mechanical keyboard nor an RGB model. You therefore do not pay for features you will not use.

Main benefit & advantages

Connection via USB receiver and three Bluetooth channels, a rechargeable battery and a range of up to 8 metres according to Trust.

Wired or wireless gaming keyboard?

Choose a wired keyboard if you use a fixed desktop PC, do not want to charge a battery and do not mind cable management. A wireless keyboard is more convenient when using multiple devices or keeping your desk tidy. With wireless models, check whether they support Bluetooth, a USB receiver or both.

For streamers, a volume knob or dedicated media key can be useful. For office professionals, noise levels are often more important than RGB. For esports players, layout, stability and the ability to adjust the actuation point are more relevant than appearance alone.

Frequently asked questions about gaming keyboards

Is a mechanical gaming keyboard quieter than a membrane keyboard?

Not necessarily. The noise level depends on the switch type, keycaps, case and any sound dampening. Linear switches are generally quieter than clicky switches, but a membrane keyboard or scissor model may be better suited to a quiet working environment.

Is a 60% keyboard suitable for everyday typing?

It can be, but you will need to get used to using Fn combinations for functions that do not have a dedicated key. For lots of typing, programming or spreadsheets, a 65%, 75% or TKL keyboard may be more practical. Also check that the QWERTY US layout suits the way you use it.

How long does a gaming keyboard last?

Lifespan varies depending on the switches, case, usage and maintenance. Manufacturers sometimes quote a specific number of keystrokes, but this is a product specification rather than a guarantee for every user. Keep the keyboard dry, do not pull the USB cable forcefully from the connection and unplug it before cleaning.