The Top 9 Gaming Keyboards of 2020 with Programmable Keys and Customizable Backlighting

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All of these keyboards are wired and feature programmable keys, as well as customizable backlighting options. By combining mechanical switches with optical sensors, the Razer Huntsman Elite provides gamers with lightning-fast responsiveness. This innovative design makes it one of the fastest and most responsive gaming keyboards on the market. Additionally, the RGB lighting adds a cool touch to your gaming experience with various color patterns.

These keyboards come equipped with media controls that are programmable, just like the rest of the keys. Nowadays, most high-end gaming keyboards utilize mechanical switches, which assign each key to its own spring-loaded switch. These switches, often referred to as 'MX' mechanisms and made by Cherry, are distinguished by different colors, each offering a unique feel and sound when typing.

While you can certainly customize a mechanical keyboard with your own layout design and key covers, gaming keyboards offer a higher level of customization. In addition to aesthetic choices like lighting, these keyboards provide adjustable features that can tailor the keyboard to your specific needs for different games. This includes changing key functions, sensitivity, and even saving profiles for individual games, ensuring optimal performance based on the game you're playing.

If you're willing to invest almost $200 for the best gaming keyboard and are a fan of mechanical keyboards, then the Razer Huntsman Elite is the perfect choice for you. This mechanical gaming keyboard stands out due to its lighting effects, providing a fantastic gaming experience.

On the other hand, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Cooler Master CK552 is worth considering. It offers a full-sized keyboard with an aluminum top plate, typically found in pricier keyboards, indicating its durability and longevity. Not all great gaming keyboards rely on mechanical switches, and the Apex keyboard by SteelSeries proves that point. Despite being affordable, the SteelSeries Apex 3 impresses with its features, including IP32 water resistance to protect against spills.

For speed and precision, the Cooler Master MK730 utilizes Cherry MX low profile switches, offering a satisfying tactile feel associated with mechanical keyboards. It also provides customization options through the Cooler Master app, allowing you to personalize RGB lighting effects, colors, and macro settings. The keyboard features a dedicated key to switch between macro layouts on-the-fly, enabling you to quickly switch between different game genres.

The Akko Ducky One 2 Mini RGB Cherry MX Gaming Keyboard is perfect for those who prefer a smaller, more compact size. With a 60 percent keyboard layout and no numeric keypad, it allows for more space for mouse movement, making it ideal for gaming.