Amazon's annual Prime Day sale doesn't officially start until next month, but some great budget-friendly deals are already popping up.

Good phone and laptop accessories don't have to break the bank, especially when you're getting them at a discount. We hand-picked some of the best devices currently on sale for Prime Day that are under $50, making them perfect for anyone looking to save on headphones, gaming gear, chargers, and more.

For instance, the HyperX SoloCast is down to just $39, a steal for this already budget-friendly USB mic. If you're looking for an upgrade over the built-in mic on your headset or laptop, the SoloCast is a great choice. It nails all the basics you need for great sound quality and easy setup.

That's just one of many bargains we found ahead of Prime Day. Here are today's top nine under $50.

See also: Amazon's next Prime Day sale starts July 8, here's what's new this year

Top 9 early Prime Day deals under $50

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When I was young, my parents never bought me a gaming console, and they told me it wasn’t a necessity. But we already had an MS-DOS PC — even when I was six — and they encouraged me to learn how to use it for productivity.

Well, creative me learned how to install games on it, and I’ve been a PC gamer ever since. I've always preferred to use the mouse and keyboard for nearly every title I try.

I bought a GuliKit KingKong 2 Pro to try gaming on a controller

Console gaming still intrigued me, though, and I’ve been considering the Lenovo Legion Go, one of Laptop Mag’s best-reviewed handheld Windows consoles.

But before I spent over $500 on a new gadget, I had to check if it was really for me or if it would just end up gathering dust in my drawer.

So, I bought the GuliKit KingKong 2 Pro gaming controller. It’s cheaper than Xbox’s first-party offerings, and it uses Hall Effect sticks, giving me peace of mind that it won’t suffer from stick drift.

🔁 This story is part of the How Swap series from Laptop Mag

The KingKong 2 Pro is a wireless Bluetooth controller, but I prefer connecting it via USB-C while gaming on my PC. It’s much easier to use that way, and I also don’t have to worry about running out of battery. With that out of the way, I fired up Steam and the Xbox app and started experimenting with a few games I usually play.

It’s impossible to use with my favorite RTS and 4X titles

I am a big fan of Red Alert 2 and the Civilization franchise, so I naturally tried using the controller with them first. However, I knew this was a lost cause, as titles like this are specifically designed to be played with a mouse and keyboard.

I’m currently playing Company of Heroes 3, and when I launched the game, the controller did not respond at all. I also checked the game’s settings, and it does not recognize the controller, only the mouse and keyboard.

I then opened Civilization VI (I don’t have Civilization VII yet), and it’s the same story — there’s no controller support for PC. Some players have found a workaround for this, but it’s too much of a hassle for me. Still, I’m not giving up on it, and I’m going to try using the controller on another set of games.

I’m no good at playing FPS games using a controller

One of my favorite gaming genres is first-person shooters, so I naturally must try that with the KingKong 2 Pro. I pulled up Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III and continued my game, but I found out I could not go beyond the first two minutes of the mission I was playing.

I have no issues using the controller — all the quick actions I need are within easy reach of my fingers. However, I had difficulty aiming, as I’m used to using my entire right hand to move the target, not just my thumb.

I probably would’ve fared better if I had restarted the entire campaign and practiced with the easier missions, but that will be boring. After all, I mostly play the Call of Duty franchise for the storyline. So, using the controller for FPS gaming is a no-go for me.

Still, I get why some gamers prefer using controllers over the mouse and keyboard, especially as it gives them better flexibility on where they want to game (unlike me, who’s stuck on my workstation).

It’s my perfect partner for casual, slow-paced games

I knew I had to give myself a fair chance of liking the controller, so I picked out some casual titles I use to relax my mind. I first pulled up American Truck Simulator, and I found myself enjoying the game in a new way.

I had to do some in-depth controller mapping, which took some time. But once I had everything set, playing on the controller was much more comfortable and ergonomic than having my finger jammed on the up arrow for three hours straight as I took a long delivery. It also allowed me to modulate my acceleration and braking, much like when I’m driving my car.

If I’m planning a long gaming session with American Truck Simulator, I’ll clear my desk and set up my driving wheel and pedals so I can enjoy the game to the fullest. But if I only want to distract myself with a short delivery, the controller is more than enough and far more convenient to set up.

I also tried another slow-paced game called Dorfromantik with the controller, and this is where I finally found the perfect match for the KingKong 2 Pro. The easy control and slow gameplay meant I could sit back and relax while placing tiles on the screen.

In addition, I also tried playing these games on my bedroom TV using Steam Link, and that was when I wished I had discovered controller gaming far sooner.

Trying out this controller has not converted me to console gaming—I still prefer the flexibility and power that PC gaming can deliver. But if all I wanted to do was relax in my bed and turn off my mind from work and the cares of adult life, playing with a controller would make it so much easier.

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I'm a sucker for a good MMO mouse. The hours of my life that I've spent plugged in to Final Fantasy XIV can be measured in months rather than hours or days.

At this point, the fact that I will run Final Fantasy as my test game on just about any computing device is a meme in the Laptop Mag office.

So imagine my surprise when I saw Corsair demoing the new Scimitar Elite Wireless SE MMO mouse at Computex, using Final Fantasy XIV as one of the test games.

Look, obviously, I was a bit sold on this mouse from the start. But it's more than just the game tie-in that has me debating whether or not it's time to retire my Razer Naga V2.

After all, the previous version of the Scimitar Elite is currently our pick for best MMO mouse.

But don't just take my word for it. Let's get into the details on what makes this version of Corsair's Scimitar mouse better than its predecessors.

16 programmable buttons, 150 hours of wireless battery life, and StreamDeck functionality

The Scimitar Elite SE features 16 programmable buttons, including the 12 placed right under your thumb. Like the previous generation, this version of the Scimitar also has an adjustable key slider that allows you to reposition the 12-button panel to ensure each button is in the optimal position for your hand and playstyle.

The Scimitar Elite SE features the Corsair Marksman S 33,000 DPI optical sensor, which can track speeds of 750 IPS (inches per second) and accelerate up to 50 G (gravitational force).

Unlike our top MMO mouse, the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite, the Elite SE is fully wireless and has a battery life of up to 150 hours. However, if you prefer a more wired experience, the Scimitar Elite SE does ship with a 1.8m braided fiber charge cable.

While you can still program the Scimitar SE with Corsair's iCUE interface, it can also be updated and customized using Corsair's new online Firmware Update Utility. This makes the Scimitar Elite SE a bit more drag-and-drop for an easier setup experience.

But if that's not enough of an upgrade over the previous gen, well: The Scimitar Elite SE is a fully functional Stream Deck. While you can use the mouse in conjunction with a Stream Deck, it can also be used as a full Elgato Stream Deck replacement for all sorts of macros and control integrations.

And you can easily swap between different Stream Deck control schemes, allowing you to easily share clips with your friends or control your stream without having to leave the game or take your hand off your mouse.

Corsair Scimitar Elite Wireless SE is available now

I'm itching to get my hands on a review unit and really put the Scimitar Elite through its paces. While I did get to poke around with the mouse at Computex in both Final Fantasy XIV and Monster Hunter Wilds, the mouse was already set up with abilities and features mapped in.

And an MMO mouse lives or dies on how easy it is to program. While it looks like the Scimitar Elite Wireless SE is easy to use out of the box, I can't say for certain until I get to test it out for myself.

However, if you're ready to take home the Scimitar Elite Wireless SE now, the mouse is available for purchase for just $139 from Corsair and Best Buy.

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Whether you are an aspiring esports pro or just want to reach for the limits of your gaming prowess (and beat your friends), Asus just dropped a compelling new option at Computex 2025.

The ROG Harpe II Ace, a sequel to the original ROG Harpe Ace, is the latest addition to the company’s Ace lineup, which is a collection of hardware designed with esports players in mind.

This new model builds on the first Harpe and is based on feedback from actual pros, including 2023 Valorant Champions winner Max Mazanov, a.k.a. Demon1.

It’s not a flashy mouse compared to the often aggressive and RGB-laden designs of gaming peripherals. Asus was hyper-focused on refining the fundamentals that matter most to serious players: low weight, responsive clicks, reliable performance, and a shape that just feels right.

This all came through clearly even during my brief time with it, but let's take a closer look at the Harpe II Ace.

Designed with esports in mind

Building a great gaming mouse is already a challenge, but building a “pro-level” gaming mouse takes it to another level, inviting the critique of the most discerning gamers.

Asus got ahead of this challenge by bringing professional players into the process. Demon1 isn’t just a marketing face — he helped shape the Harpe II Ace's design.

In a video on the design process, Mazanov said, “I got to bring my experience as a pro directly into the design process — down to the shape, the clicks, the weight, everything.

"I’m genuinely excited for players to try it out, and I hope it becomes a go-to for pros who want gear that can keep up with them."

That level of involvement doesn’t guarantee greatness, but it’s a good sign when the people who rely on this hardware to win are involved from the start.

Ultralight and ultratough

One of the headline features is the weight. At just 48 grams, the Harpe II Ace is 6 grams lighter than the previous Harpe Ace Aim Lab Edition.

That’s no small feat, especially when you consider the internal structure has been reinforced to prevent flexing. Asus pulled this off using a bio-based nylon that’s 70% more eco-friendly than traditional materials without compromising durability.

The end result is that it still feels solid in your hand, despite that featherweight shell. The matte finish is designed to offer a firm grip even after hours of gaming. It also avoids resistance with rounded edges on its PTFE feet that make it glide smoothly across your mousepad.

Get a grip

While the Harpe II Ace is a follow-up to the Aim Lab Edition, the exterior got a near-ground-up rethink. The mouse has a carefully crafted shape to suit claw and fingertip grips, with a lower hump for better fingertip control and tapered sidewalls to make it easier to lift.

The incline from the buttons to the middle of the shell creates better hand balance, and the side buttons are spaced and angled to reduce accidental misclicks.

These are subtle tweaks that don’t appear on a spec sheet but can be potential game-changers in real-world use.

It's what's inside that counts

Performance-wise, the Harpe II Ace checks all the right boxes. It features the ROG AimPoint Pro sensor, which maxes out at 42,000 DPI and includes track-on-glass technology.

Wireless performance is also a standout. The mouse uses Asus’ SpeedNova 8K technology to hit a true 8000Hz polling rate.

Typically, you have to turn to a wired mouse for that, but Asus has managed to deliver it over 2.4GHz with the help of its next-gen microcontroller unit (MCU) chip.

The optical switches are rated for 100 million clicks, and while I wasn’t able to actually game with it, the buttons certainly feel crisp and decisive.

Combine that with the low-latency wireless, and it’s going to be hard to blame the mouse for the occasional poor play.

Competitive advantage

Asus added a couple of features that are especially targeted at tournament players or anyone who regularly switches setups. Zone Mode lets you quickly configure the mouse for peak performance. When activated, it boosts the polling rate to 8000Hz, disables RGB lighting to save power, and puts the mouse in a constant active state for zero lag when you pick it up.

There’s also ROG Gear Link, which lets you tweak settings from a web browser — no software install needed. For esports players who regularly switch between PCs or use shared machines, this flexibility is a huge plus.

Is the Harpe II Ace gaming mouse for you?

The Harpe II Ace is a fairly unassuming mouse that may blow you (or your opponents) away. Asus was hyper-focused on critical basics: shape, speed, responsiveness, and durability. Asus’ engineers and input from pro gamers combine for a balance between raw performance and practical usability.

At 48 grams, it’s one of the lightest pro-grade wireless mice on the market. It feels great in hand and doesn’t compromise on build quality or features to get there.

For competitive players — or anyone who just wants a mouse that lets them play their best — the Harpe II Ace looks like one to put on your shortlist for 2025.

Pricing and availability information aren’t available yet, but it’s expected to arrive in the summer. The previous version started at $149, so hopefully, Asus can keep it right around that same price point.

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On Monday, I was ushered into a room just off the lobby of Asus HQ in Taipei, Taiwan, to see and use the latest ROG hardware announced at Computex 2025.

Even after listening to a 30-minute presentation by Asus on what we were about to see, I wouldn't have guessed the device that would dominate my attention for most of my time there.

The ROG Falcata is a wireless 75% split gaming keyboard. It's an intriguing product even at first glance, but I've used some of the best gaming keyboards and, invariably, I retreat to a more traditional mechanical keyboard.

Gaming isn't enough of what I do to justify the often bulky size of a gaming keyboard in my setup, which typically offers an actuation point better suited to the precision capture of every keypress than tracking the flow of typing, and a multitude of features that go unused by me.

Based on my time with it so far, the Falcata is different. It offers a level of customization that is thrilling (if slightly overwhelming). Once you start tinkering with it, the customizations are intuitive and easily accessible via the scroll wheel and buttons on the left half of the relatively diminutive keyboard.

There's no question the Falcata is designed with gamers in mind, and it will serve them well, but even if you're a more casual gamer, it has a lot to offer.

If you've struggled to find a keyboard that perfectly fits the ergonomics or actuation point that best suits you, this may well be the answer; let me walk you through how it works.

• Hot-swappable ROG HFX V2 Magnetic Switches
• ROG Hall Sensor
• Rapid Trigger Toggle
• Tri-mode connectivity (ROG SpeedNova 8K wireless, wired, BT)
• 8K polling rate
• Connect up to 5 devices simultaneously
• Four-layer dampening
• Detachable silicone wrist rests
• Variable actuation (0.1 - 3.5mm at 0.01mm increments)

The options are endless

Starting with the split keyboard design, you can position the keyboard virtually anywhere on your desk. For gamers, this could mean ditching the right-hand side of the keyboard, leaving the left side free to handle WASD movement, and granting you more space for your mouse.

For more general computing usage, this allows you to position the keyboard in whatever location is most comfortable for you, but it's not just the location of the halves.

On the bottom of the Falcata are five screw holes, and you can angle the keyboard with the included attachments at two distinct heights. Raise the keyboard in the middle, at the sides, or the back for a traditional typing position. You can also completely remove the built-in wrist rests if you prefer.

I've used numerous ergonomic split keyboards over the years, but they never perfectly fit, so the endless opportunity for customization here makes it hard to imagine anyone not finding a perfect configuration.

Take control of your keyboard

The physical customization options available on the Falcata are a compelling, ergonomic dream for any type of user, but that's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to customization for this keyboard, and it can all be done from the buttons and scroll wheel on its left side.

The most notable is the ability to switch the actuation point for the keys anywhere from 0.1mm to 3.5mm in 0.01mm increments. That should cover anyone's typing or gaming style. And it's worth noting that you can get as granular as you want with that, setting actuation points on a per-key basis.

This is achieved with the multifunction button at the top-left corner of the keyboard, and the changes are easy to see thanks to the LED below reflecting your changes in real time. This also lets you control volume, media playback, keyboard lighting, and more while only taking up a tiny amount of space on the keyboard.

Flipping a switch at the top of the keyboard lets you toggle Rapid Trigger on or off when switching from a fast-paced FPS game to maybe an RPG.

Is this your next keyboard?

I had plenty of time to play with the keyboard and tweak the various settings to my liking, but I couldn't connect it to a laptop or desktop to really put it through its paces. Given that, it would be impossible to give a real ruling on whether it's something I'd recommend right now.

We're also missing some critical information, as Asus has not yet provided pricing or availability. I don't fault Asus; that's been a theme of Computex 2025 across the board, given tariffs and other concerns.

However, it's difficult to even speculate on the price, given that there aren't alternatives that duplicate everything on the Falcata, but I wouldn't be surprised if it were north of $300.

With all that said, it's certainly the most excited I've been about a keyboard in recent memory, so I'll be tracking it closely when Asus can get it shipped.

Asus paid for Laptop Mag's travel to and accommodations during Computex Tapei. The company did not see the contents of this article before publication.

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I love trying new gaming mice, but the best models can be pricey.

If you're looking for a new gaming mouse that offers excellent value for your money, you can avoid paying the high list prices with these seven deals I found on Amazon this week.

For example, my favorite budget gaming mouse, the Logitech G305 Lightspeed, is now down to just $29! This mouse covers all the basics at a phenomenal price and stands the test of time. I've used mine for almost three years, and it works great.

If you want something more feature-laden, consider the Razer Basilisk V3, which is currently available for just $39. It boasts a sculpted ergonomic design with RGB backlighting, 11 programmable buttons, a 26K sensor, and optical switches, ensuring top-performance functionality.

No matter what kind of gaming mouse you're on the hunt for, you don't want to miss out on this weekend's top deals.

Top 7 deals on gaming mice this weekend

If you love gaming tech like me, you’ve probably noticed a lot of it can be a bit over the top, with cyberpunk fonts and RGB lighting on every surface. If you find yourself wishing for a more minimalistic design that puts the focus on performance, I may have found the perfect keyboard.

The Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid sports one of the cleanest designs I’ve seen on a gaming keyboard, especially in the white colorway. It features a monochrome design with a neutral font that’s legible without being obnoxious. While it looks simple on the surface, the G PRO X TKL Rapid offers some advanced features under the hood that promise to take your game performance up a notch.

With magnetic switches and a boatload of software-based customization options, the Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid puts performance front and center. The question is, are software features enough to give it an edge over regular Cherry-style mechanical keyboards or even earn a place among the best gaming keyboards?

Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid: Price and configurations

The Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid costs $169 and comes in three colors: black, white, and magenta, which is dark pink. As the name suggests, all three versions are TKL (tenkeyless) keyboards, meaning they do not have a number pad. If that’s a must-have for you, take a look at our guide to the best gaming keyboards for some full-size alternatives.

At this price, it would have been nice for the G PRO X TKL Rapid to include wireless functionality like some other comparably priced gaming keyboards, such as the Alienware Pro Wireless. The G PRO X TKL Rapid is only available in a wired configuration at the time of writing. Wireless functionality probably isn’t a deal breaker for many gamers, but it’s still nice to have the option on premium keyboards.

Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid: Design

Logitech went with a clean, monochrome design for the G PRO X TKL Rapid. All three colorways are consistent across the chassis, with the exception of the black scroll wheel. I’m a big fan of how clean our white review unit looks. The black scroll wheel and bottom case add a nice bit of contrast along with the brushed aluminum top plate, which matches the silver Logitech logo in the top right corner.

Along the top edge of the keyboard, there are dedicated buttons for controlling game mode, RGB backlighting, pause/play, and mute. The volume scroll wheel is a good size and features textured lines along it for some extra grip.

The keycaps Logitech included on the G PRO X TKL Rapid feel premium and heavy-duty. They offer a clear, bolded font that’s neutral enough to bring to the office if you want to. The keycap texture is matte with a bit of grain on top for improved traction. Overall, I found them very comfortable to type and game on.

Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid: Switches

Unlike most of Logitech’s gaming keyboards, the G PRO X TKL Rapid doesn’t feature regular Cherry-style mechanical switches. Instead, it boasts magnetic analog switches, which sound and feel like regular mechanical switches but have some special capabilities. For instance, you can customize the actuation point on these switches so keystrokes go through sooner or later, depending on your playstyle. (More on that in the performance and software sections.)

The magnetic switches on the Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid are linear switches with a 35g actuation force, which is just about perfect for gaming. Most linear gaming switches are around 30 to 40g, but tactile switches can be a bit heavier, around 50 to 55g. The 35g actuation force on the G PRO X TKL Rapid is enough resistance to prevent accidental keystrokes but still light enough for speed and precision.

The Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid isn’t bad in terms of sound quality. These linear switches sound like tactile switches when they bottom out, with a low “clack” tone. There’s a tiny bit of a metallic sound but no rattling. The larger keys sound fairly deep, as well. Overall, the sound profile for these switches is relatively smooth, not too loud, and better than many other gaming keyboards, meaning most gamers will probably be happy with it.

Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid: Performance

I used the Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid as my main gaming keyboard for a few weeks and tested it out with several games, including Halo: The Master Chief Collection, Minecraft, Eternal Strands, and Tales of Kenzera: ZAU.

The G PRO X TKL Rapid performed well across the board with consistent actuation, swift responsiveness, and minimal finger and wrist fatigue.

All four games require snappy movement on the WASD keys, which the G PRO X TKL Rapid delivers easily. The switches are light enough that I didn’t have trouble with keystrokes requiring my pinky finger, such as the left control key used for magic actions in Eternal Strands. Double-tapping in Minecraft and Tales of Kenzera for sprinting and double jumps (respectively) was smooth and consistent, as well.

I left the actuation point at the default level on the G PRO X TKL, but I did make use of Game Mode and found it helpful. This feature deactivates designated keys while you’re gaming to prevent distractions or misfires. The dedicated Game Mode button at the top of the keyboard makes it easy to turn the feature on or off.

My keystrokes can get a bit clumsy in fast-paced games, so Game Mode came in handy for me, particularly in Halo. I have a bad habit of accidentally killing my teammates with grenades, so I moved that action to my number row and deactivated the G key in Game Mode. Of course, any keys you block out with Game Mode won’t trigger while it’s active, so make sure to rebind keys if necessary.

I had a good typing experience, as well. On the Monkeytype typing test, I scored 89 words per minute with 95% accuracy on the Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid. That’s on par with my desktop average of 90 words per minute with 98% accuracy earned with my typical daily driver, the Lofree Block.

Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid: Software

You can use the Logitech G Hub app to customize settings and performance on the G PRO X TKL Rapid. Logitech G Hub is a fairly robust app and offered all of the customization tools I needed.

You can customize RGB backlighting on a per-key level with the “Freestyle” lighting mode or use one of several pre-made animations. The RGB backlighting looks fantastic, with noticeably more vibrant colors than I’ve seen on other gaming keyboards.

G Hub is also where you can customize Rapid Trigger, Game Mode, actuation points, and key assignments. You can fine-tune all of these features on a per-key basis or all at once. So, for instance, you can set a custom actuation point for just your WASD keys or turn down the actuation point on your entire keyboard. You can also create multiple Game Mode profiles, meaning you can have different keys deactivated in Game Mode for different games.

Overall, I found G Hub easy to navigate and use and didn’t experience any crashing or bugs. It’s a straightforward app that gets all the basics right.

Bottom line

The Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid is a reliable, responsive gaming keyboard that nails all the basics and amplifies performance through special software features that improve speed and precision with the magnetic switches.

It’s a great pick if you’re looking for a fast, minimalistic wired gaming keyboard that won’t take up too much space on your desk. The G PRO X TKL Rapid is also good for gamers looking for an upgrade over their laptop keyboard or Cherry-style mechanical keyboard — Logitech’s magnetic analog switches open the door for more customization with Rapid Trigger and Game Mode.

However, the G PRO X TKL Rapid might not be the right choice for gamers who are looking for a wireless or full-size keyboard. If you’re in this camp, visit our guide to the best gaming keyboards for more top-rated options like the Alienware Pro Wireless.

At first glance, I expected the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL to be like any other basic, matte black gaming keyboard I’ve tried, but the features it offered inside its unassuming chassis quickly set it apart.

While a nice design is a big win for any keyboard in my book, it’s not the most important trait for a gaming keyboard. The SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL has a no-frills design that gets the job done, with a nice keycap font and the perfect chassis size for my desk, but it blends right in with a sea of other matte black gaming keyboards.

What makes it stand out is what it offers under the hood: several game-changing features for streamlining performance in fast-paced gameplay. The Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL comes with OmniPoint 3.0 magnetic hall effect switches, which allows you to adjust the actuation point for each key, a feature that isn’t possible on regular mechanical keyboards. SteelSeries went beyond basic actuation point customization on this keyboard, though.

The question is, do software and performance features make enough of a difference to legitimately impact gameplay? And will that push it onto our best gaming keyboards list? After using the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL as my main gaming keyboard for a few weeks, I think I’ve found the answer.

SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL: Price and configurations

The SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL costs $219 for the wired version or $269 for wireless. Each model is available in seven languages: US English, UK English, French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Nordic. It’s only available in a matte black colorway. Our review unit is the wired model in US English.

SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL: Design

The SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL mainly sticks to the tried-and-true design of previous Apex keyboards, but that’s not a bad thing. The minimalistic, polished look gets all the basics right. I especially like that SteelSeries uses a clean, simple font for its keycaps instead of a more over-the-top “gamer” font.

As a TKL keyboard, this model features a full row of function keys and six utility keys but no number pad. For that, take a look at the larger SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3. In the top right corner above the utility keys there’s a small OLED display, scroll wheel, and media button. You can use the display to view and adjust switch actuation settings, macros, lighting, and configurations for different games.

I’m a big fan of scroll wheels, but the one on the Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL is so small and deeply recessed in the case that it’s uncomfortable to use.

On many keyboards, the top case is elevated a bit to cover the gaps under the keycaps and help prevent dust from getting into the switches. Conveniently, this also allows special keys like a scroll wheel to sit at the same height as the keycaps, as on the Razer BlackWidow V4. That’s not the case on the Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL.

On this keyboard, the “top case” is effectively just the plate the switches are mounted on, so the tiny scroll wheel and media button sit lower than the keycaps, which isn’t the most ergonomic design.

That might sound like a minor issue, but it means you have to reach over the top row of keys to reach the media button or scroll wheel. The scroll wheel being so tiny and nearly flush with the switch plate makes it all the more awkward to reach. If I were in the middle of a fast-paced gaming session, I would be more likely to reach for my headphones’ volume button than the mini scroll wheel on the Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL.

While the scroll wheel was a letdown, I liked that SteelSeries included built-in storage for a keycap puller on the bottom of the keyboard. It’s hidden under a soft silicone cover. A switch puller isn’t included, but the Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL is hot-swappable with other hall effect switches.

A detachable wrist rest is included in the box, which is always a big plus. I wasn’t sure about this one at first since it has a flat, rubberized surface instead of a cushy faux leather like most other wrist rests I’ve used. However, I ended up really liking the feel of this one.

The rubber features a soft, slightly grippy texture to it, much like the silicone cover on the bottom of the keyboard. It’s especially nice for gaming sessions since it doesn’t warm up or get sweaty. As an added bonus, the wrist rest gives the spacebar a slightly deeper sound.

SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL: Switches and keycaps

The Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL is a hall effect keyboard… mostly. All the main keys use SteelSeries OmniPoint 3.0 HyperMagnetic switches, but the function row and utility keys use normal Gateron red switches. They sound and feel effectively the same, but you can’t customize performance on any of the regular Gateron red switches since that capability is available only on magnetic hall effect switches.

If you don’t plan to replace or hot-swap the switches on your keyboard, the mix of hall effect and normal mechanical switches is likely not a big deal. However, if you do want the ability to hot-swap your switches, the mix of different switch types may be frustrating since you can’t use the same switch on the whole keyboard.

That said, I am a big fan of the OmniPoint 3.0 switches. They’re light, fast, and reliable, the three traits that are most important for gaming switches in my experience. The keystroke sound quality could be better, but it’s not bad at all. I didn’t notice any rattling, even on the larger keys.

The switches sound a lot like standard Cherry red switches – smooth and relatively quiet with a slightly metallic note when the keys bottom out. I really enjoyed typing on the Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL, so it makes a good all-around keyboard for those who work and game with the same gear.

SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL: Performance

I used the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL as my main gaming keyboard for over a month, so I’ve tested it out with nearly every type of game in my collection. I had a great experience with it across the board but was especially impressed with how smooth and consistent performance was in fast-paced games.

The Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL handled Roboquest, Marvel Rivals, and Halo: The Master Chief Collection like a champ, keeping up perfectly with my quick keystrokes. All three titles require a balance of speed and precision, which is exactly what hall effect keyboards are perfect for. I didn't change the actuation point on any of my keys much, but set it a bit higher on my WSAD keys for these games to make movement snappier.

I also completed a speedrun of Minecraft using the Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL and was impressed with how it handled parkour and combat. I never had issues with rapid key presses canceling each other out or failing to register thanks to the Rapid Tap feature, which automatically prioritizes the most recent keystroke.

Fast-paced games are also where Protection Mode came in handy. Protection Mode is a SteelSeries exclusive feature that’s great for gamers who need speedy performance but tend to button mash or “fat finger” their keyboard. I have a habit of accidentally hitting or holding down adjacent keys in tense gameplay, so having the option to activate Protection Mode and prevent those accidental keystrokes was convenient.

While I didn’t use it often, the ability to set a custom actuation point for each individual hall effect switch is also nice to have, especially for esports players. Per-key actuation points allow you to fine-tune the sensitivity for each key based on your gameplay style.

For instance, you could set a higher actuation point for your movement keys and a deeper actuation point for actions or macros, allowing movement to be snappy while reducing the chance of accidental keystrokes for actions and abilities.

SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL: Software

You can customize lighting and performance on the Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL through the SteelSeries GG app. Navigating the app could be a more intuitive experience, but it offers just about every customization feature you could want.

You can activate Rapid Tap and Protection Mode for every individual key and set the actuation point for each hall effect key. Conveniently, SteelSeries GG features pre-made configuration profiles for some popular games, which saves time. For instance, it automatically found the Minecraft configuration for me with Rapid Tap and Protection Mode pre-assigned accordingly.

SteelSeries GG is also where you can swap between various pre-made lighting modes or create your own per-key RGB design. This process could be a bit more straightforward.

In SteelSeries GG you have to go to Engine > Prism > Effects > Single Color. Initially the whole keyboard will be one color then you can select individual keys to assign a different color to them. It’s worth noting, you need SteelSeries GG running in the background for custom lighting profiles to remain active.

SteelSeries GG is a fairly good app overall, though. Aside from your keyboard settings, you can also use it to practice certain games with the 3D Aim Trainer feature, record and view gameplay clips with Moments, and fine tune game and chat audio with Sonar.

Bottom line

The SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL is a top-notch gaming keyboard with fantastic magnetic switches and several features that streamline performance for fast-paced games. The design is polished and practical overall, but the size and placement of the scroll wheel and media button make them uncomfortable to use. However, the included wrist rest is comfortable and the hidden switch puller is a nice bonus.

The Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL is an especially good pick for esports players or gamers who prefer fast-paced titles where quick, precise keystrokes are crucial. Rapid Tap, Protection Mode, and per-key customizable actuation points can be legitimate game changers in these types of games. Preventing clumsy keystrokes or activating a key a fraction of a second earlier might seem like small benefits, but they can make the difference between winning and losing in highly competitive games.

While this gaming keyboard isn’t perfect, the Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL gets the important elements right and may boast the most comprehensive set of performance features I’ve seen on a gaming keyboard. Of course, it may not be the best fit for everyone.

For instance, the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% features a more ergonomic scroll wheel and media buttons. You can compare the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL to even more competitors with our guide to the best gaming keyboards of the year.

CES 2025 is wrapping up, but this year's new wave of gaming accessories is just getting off the ground.

A slew of exciting new tech products launched at CES, from Lenovo's latest handheld gaming PC to a unique gaming chair from Razer, along with dozens of new laptops.

While many intriguing products were unveiled, five in particular caught my attention. Whether you're looking for a new gaming keyboard, a customizable mouse, or the right fit for your next gaming chair, these five gaming accessories from CES 2025 are the ones to watch.

HyperX Pulsefire Saga Pro modular gaming mouse

Arguably the most innovative peripheral announced at CES 2025 was the HyperX Pulsefire Saga Pro. This is the most customizable gaming mouse I've ever seen. The case is modular so you can create up to 16 different combinations with various magnetic case pieces and buttons. This effectively allows the Pulsefire Saga Pro to be a one-size-fits-all gaming mouse you can customize for your specific needs, whether that's hand size or play style.

As someone with smaller hands, I know how challenging it can be to find a gaming mouse that fits just right. It's even more difficult for left-handed gamers. A modular design like the Pulsefire Saga Pro features could be the perfect solution for many gamers. It's a refreshing departure from mouse designs that default to the least common denominator: right-handed gamers with larger hands.

The Pulsefire Saga Pro is a wireless gaming mouse weighing in at 72 grams with a 4K max polling rate. There is also a wired version, the Pulsefire Saga, that weighs 69 grams and boasts an 8K polling rate. Both will launch in March 2025 for $119 and $79, respectively.

Keychron K2 HE mechanical keyboard

Hall effect keyboards are quickly gaining popularity, so I wasn't surprised to see Keychron bringing more HE models into its line-up at CES 2025.

Perhaps the most eye-catching of the bunch is the Keychron K2 HE. The Special Edition model looks especially stylish, featuring a matte black case with rosewood edges. It has the clean, minimalistic look Keychron is known for, but the wood accents are a nice, unique touch.

Keychron keyboards may not be made specifically for gaming, but with magnetic switches appearing in more and more mainstream keyboards, that line is getting blurrier every year.

The Keychron K2 HE could be a great fit for someone who wants a keyboard that can keep up with fast-paced games without looking like a stereotypical gaming keyboard (think cliché tech fonts and loads of RGB). Plus, as a Keychron keyboard, the K2 HE will probably feature better sound quality than most gaming keyboards.

Cherry XTRFY MX 8.3 TKL gaming keyboard

I know Cherry best for its mechanical keyboard switches, but it produces its own keyboards, as well, including the new Cherry XTRFY MX 8.3 TKL gaming keyboard. This sleek keyboard features a polished design with a uniquely rounded top edge. It also includes a knob and a mini display along with full RGB backlighting and a gasket structure. To top it all off, it also boasts an 8K polling rate.

With all that going for it, the XTRFY MX 8.3 TKL is hard to ignore. It will have plenty of competition, but if its specs are any hint, it could be a contender for our best gaming keyboards list.

MSI Strike 700 and Forge GK600 gaming keyboards

The MSI Strike 700 might just be the keyboard I'm most excited to try out this year. It features a more stylish design than I've seen from most other mainstream gaming brands, but with just enough of a cyberpunk edge to still look characteristically MSI. The blue, white, and indigo keycaps look great and appear to be XDA or MDA profile, both of which I'm a big fan of.

MSI seems to be embracing the enthusiast keyboard community with this one, too. The Strike 700 is fully hot-swappable and features a gasket mounted design with multiple sound-dampening layers.

The Strike 700 isn't the only new MSI keyboard taking cues from the enthusiast keyboard community. MSI also unveiled the Forge GK600 TKL at CES 2025 and it also looks fantastic. It's available in two colorways, "sky" blue and "violet" (which looks more like pink). Each features KTT HiFi linear switches, which are surprising to see on a gaming keyboard. Like the Strike 700, the Forge GK600 TKL is fully hot-swappable and gasket mounted.

I'm excited to see gaming keyboards branching out beyond basic matte-black designs, so I'll be keeping a close eye out for the launch of both of these new keyboards from MSI.

Razer Iskur V2 X gaming chair

One of my favorite gaming accessories I reviewed last year was the Noblechairs Epic Compact, which remains my favorite gaming chair. Much as I love the Epic Compact, as a vertically challenged gamer, I always have my eye out for new gaming chairs with low minimum seat heights. That's why I'm cautiously optimistic about testing out Razer's latest gaming chair, the Iskur V2 X.

The Iskur V2 X is a more budget-friendly sequel to the original Iskur V2, coming in at a modest $299. That's almost half the price of my Epic Compact and even less than the Razer Enki X, which is also a budget-oriented gaming chair.

The Iskur has a cleaner, more cushy design than the Enki, but there is one trait I hope Razer copied: the minimum seat height. The Enki X has the lowest minimum seat height of Razer's gaming chairs at just 400mm or 15.7 inches, which is below my ideal 16-inch minimum.

The Iskur V2 X is recommended for people at least 5'2" tall, but I still have hope it will have a low enough seat height for me to give it a test drive. I'd love to see the premium versions of gaming chairs like the Iskur V2 X feature more height-inclusive designs (and not just at the upper end), but lower seat heights on budget chairs are a good start.

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Black Friday is taking no prisoners, yielding some of the greatest discounts we've seen all year, and it's proven the most by our best Black Friday laptop deals. But beyond just laptops, we also have seen great deals on gaming accessories, especially in the realm of keyboards. Razer is one of the best keyboard manufacturers out there, and we're shocked by how steep the deals are for their keyboards.

For example, a keyboard like the Razer BladeWidow V3 Mini Hyperspeed Phantom Edition is now $84 at Best Buy, which is $115 off its original price. Yes, this keyboard is more than half off what it initially was, and beyond just that, it's an absolute champion for competitive gamers, featuring mechanical linear switches that are silent, RGB backlighting and more.

But if you don't want to break the bank, and just need a solid gaming keyboard to accompany your gameplay, there's also an incredible choice like the Razer Cynosa V2 for $24 at Best Buy. Yes, that's right, you'll get a full Razer keyboard (meaning it has a number pad, arrows keys, and navigation keys) for just $24, which is $35 off its original price.

All in all, I'm amazed by the Razer deals we've seen for keyboards so far, so here's a bunch to make your Black Friday even better.

Best Black Friday Razer keyboard deals

I've been playing Final Fantasy XIV since the Heavensward expansion came out almost a decade ago in the summer of 2015. I've played the game on nearly every platform, including PlayStation 4, Xbox, and macOS. I've used old-school keyboard and mouse controls, and I've played with gamepads on console and PC. My in-game time counter is ranked in months, not hours or days.

I tested the Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail graphic updates on two gaming laptops and PS5 to see what specs you need to fully enjoy the increased texture details that came with the latest expansion. I frequently use my FF14 addiction to test gaming rigs and even thin-and-light premium laptops. I used the Dawntrail benchmark and live gameplay to evaluate AMD's new Fluid Motion Frames 2 technology for integrated GPUs.

So, I think it's safe to say that I know Final Fantasy XIV pretty well.

While Cyber Monday is over, you can still get a solid $30 off my favorite Final Fantasy XIV companion, the Razer Naga V2 Pro. The Naga V2 Pro had dropped down to just $132 at Amazon over the Black Friday-Cyber Monday weekend, but the stock has run out so that sale is no longer available. Making the $149 deal from Razer the best bargain right now.

If you've been considering leveling up your gaming mouse, don't wait, the Cyber Monday deals are disappearing quickly.

The best Razer Naga V2 Pro extended Cyber Monday deal

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We might have mentioned it once or twice already, but October Prime Day is here, and that means great deals on a huge range of tech. One area that caught our eye was the huge range of Razer peripheral deals on Amazon, with up to 55% off on a range of mice, keyboards, headsets, and more — ideal for gamers looking to upgrade their setup.

Razer makes some of the most beautiful and best-performing peripherals on the market, offering premium build quality, top-end specs, and slick-looking RGB. The only downside is that you usually pay a high price for that quality, but these Prime Day offers really take the edge off the Razer, bringing many into downright bargain territory.

If you need a new mouse, you can snag $30 off the Razer Basilisk V3 and Razer Basilisk V3 Pro, or $40 off the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro. There are some hefty savings to be found on a couple of their mini-format keyboards, with over 40% off both the Razer BlackWidow V3 Mini and Razer Huntsman Mini.

Finally, on the audio front, you can find a tasty $30 discount on the Razer BlackShark V2 gaming headset or a whopping 53% off the Razer Seiren V2 X standalone microphone.

Best Razer gaming peripherals October Prime Day deals

If there's one thing that can make or break a great gaming session for me, it's my mouse. Having the perfect gaming mouse on my desk can often make the difference between a win and a loss. You don't have to break the bank to upgrade your mouse, though! 

Right now you can pick up a high-performance gaming mouse from HyperX up to 20% off on Amazon. For example, I've got my eye on the HyperX Pulsefire Haste, which is on sale for just $40 and features a lightweight honeycomb design. That's tough to beat! 

HyperX is known for making top-notch gaming gear, so don't let these low prices fool you. Sure, some of the best gaming mice cost well over $100, but finding the right mouse for your gameplay style just comes down to balancing price and performance. HyperX's gaming mice are easy to recommend since you know you'll be getting a reliable device with a low weight and a precise sensor. 

If you're ready to level up your PC gaming setup, score one of these HyperX deals while they last! 

Today's top HyperX gaming mice deals

I can't believe some of the deals Best Buy is offering on top PC gaming gear right now — trust me, you don't want to miss out on this sale. 

I review gaming peripherals for a living, so I know a great deal on mice, keyboards, and headphones when I see one. Gaming gear can be seriously pricey, so Best Buy's Black Friday in July sale is the perfect time to upgrade your battle station without breaking the bank. 

Right now, you can snag gear from top brands like Razer, Logitech, and Corsair for under $50! 

For example, you can get one of my favorite wireless gaming mice, the Logitech G305 LIGHTSPEED, for just $30. If you're looking for a reliable, budget-friendly gaming mouse that looks great, too, this one is tough to beat. 

You can also level up your audio experience with a set of Razer BlackShark V2 X wired headphones for just $35, slashing $25 off the usual price of $60. 

That's just the tip of the iceberg. I scoured Best Buy's Black Friday in July sale for the best deals on PC gaming gear and hand-picked these top seven deals so you can give your gaming setup a makeover at a great price. 

Top 7 gaming gear deals for Best Buy Black Friday in July 2024

The Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL could level up your gaming — by sizing down your keyboard. It features a low-profile design, which could be a huge win for PC gaming ergonomics. 

Most gaming keyboards use mechanical key switches that perform better than membrane, chiclet, or laptop keyboards. The Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL uses a particular type of mechanical switch that’s gaining popularity: low-profile switches. They work like full-size mechanical switches, but they’re much flatter. The keycaps on top are flatter, too, allowing low-profile mechanical keyboards to be much thinner than their full-size counterparts. 

If you want a dedicated gaming keyboard but enjoy the flat shape of a laptop keyboard, a low-profile gaming keyboard like the Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL could be the perfect fit. Before adding it to your battle station, here's everything you should know.

Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL: Price and configurations

The Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL has two main configurations: wired and tri-mode wireless. The wired-only version costs $99, while the tri-mode wireless version costs $139. At launch in June 2024, only the tri-mode wireless version was available. Logitech plans to launch the wired-only model later this year. Both versions are available in black or white colorways. Each model is available with either tactile or linear switches. 

Our review unit is the black tri-mode wireless version with tactile switches, which includes the keyboard, a detachable USB-C to USB-A cable, and a 2.4GHz USB dongle.

Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL: Design

I wouldn’t usually opt for a low-profile keyboard, but I have to admit I like the design of the Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED. Low-profile mechanical keyboards use special mechanical switches that are flatter than normal switches, with shorter stems and flatter keycaps. They’re not as flat as a laptop keyboard but not as tall as a conventional mechanical keyboard. This design can make typing and gaming more comfortable since your hands can sit parallel to your desk, improving ergonomics. 

The Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED is just 22mm thick from the bottom edge of the case to the tops of the keycaps. It also weighs less than 2 pounds, which is a refreshing change for those who don’t like the heavy aluminum cases on many premium keyboards today. 

The Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED's aesthetic is clean and minimal. The top case is matte black plastic, and the bottom is matte gray plastic with a textured design underneath for extra grip. The bottom also has a cutout for the USB dongle and two pairs of height adjustment feet. In the top right corner of the case, you’ll find the power switch, caps lock indicator, and battery indicator. 

It’s a TKL keyboard, meaning it has all of the function keys and some media keys but does not have the number pad. This size is one of my favorite layouts, but it isn’t ideal for gamers who rely on the number pad for macros and shortcuts. TKL keyboards are a good size for those who play fast-paced or esports titles, where angling your keyboard often improves performance. A TKL keyboard is still small enough for angling on most desks but retains the full function row.

Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL: Keys

The Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL's low-profile keys may take some getting used to for some gamers, but they can be very comfortable to game and type on. The G515 is available with linear or tactile low-profile switches. It’s crucial to note that the switches are not hot-swappable, so make sure you choose your switch configuration wisely. 

While it’s unfortunate that the switches aren’t hot-swappable, the G515 has standard key spacing and Cherry-style switch buttons, so you can at least change out the keycaps for another set of low-profile caps if you want. The switches are also factory-lubricated, and the included set of keycaps is made of double-shot PBT, which are premium features. 

Our review unit included the tactile switches featuring a 45g actuation force, a 1.3mm actuation distance, and 3.2mm of total key travel. The key travel feels much like on a conventional mechanical keyboard. The only difference is the keycaps and switches are flatter. 

The tactile switches have a medium actuation force but it felt during my testing. The switches felt stiffer than expected, even though they were quite responsive. This may be because the tactile feedback hits sooner in the compressed form factor of a low-profile switch. 

Regardless, I found my fingers and wrists cramping up after long gaming sessions. So, if you prefer lighter switches, choose a configuration with linear switches if you add a Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL to your gaming setup. 

Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL: Performance

I tested the Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED in several games, including fast-paced titles like Roboquest and more casual titles like Minecraft. I didn’t notice any latency issues when using it wirelessly and the wired connection is flawless. The low-profile form factor improves ergonomics overall, especially with the help of the slightly textured PBT keycaps. 

However, I did find my fingers and wrists cramping after long gaming or typing sessions. This was especially evident in Roboquest, which requires quick keystrokes. Pressing and holding keys over a series of long runs eventually became uncomfortable, mainly due to the high actuation force on the tactile switches. 

I prefer lighter switches, so this concern might not be a problem for those who like switches with a high actuation force. One benefit they offer is preventing accidental keystrokes. If that’s a concern for you, these switches could be a great fit. However, if you prefer lighter switches, you’d be better served with a version of the G515 LIGHTSPEED sporting linear switches. 

Despite the high actuation force, the switches on the G515 LIGHTSPEED are very responsive. I found the low-profile form factor comfortable for gaming and typing alike. The flat keycaps make finger movement between keys smoother and quicker than on a conventional keyboard, which is excellent for fast-paced gameplay. 

Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL: Connectivity and battery

The Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED features tri-mode connectivity, meaning you can connect it using Bluetooth, the 2.4GHz wireless dongle, or wired. There’s a trio of buttons in the top left corner of the case for switches between connectivity modes. I tested the G515 LIGHTSPEED in all three modes, and all worked smoothly. 

It’s also worth noting that the G515 supports 2:1 LIGHTSPEED connectivity, meaning if you have another Logitech device with a LIGHTSPEED 2.4GHz USB dongle, you can connect two devices using the same one. This feature can come in handy for saving USB slots on your laptop or PC. 

The wireless battery life on the G515 LIGHTSPEED varies depending on how much you use the RGB backlighting. A full charge lasts about 36 hours with RGB at 100% brightness. You can stretch that if you turn off the backlighting, but it is hard to see the legends since they aren’t painted to allow for RGB shine-through. The RGB backlighting looks great, so you’ll want to have it turned on anyway. 

The battery life could be better, but it’s similar to other wireless gaming keyboards like the Alienware Pro Wireless. If you’re concerned about the battery dying during a game, you can always use the Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED wired. It also helps that the battery indicator light will flash red when the battery is getting low.  

Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL: Software

You can use the Logitech G Hub app to configure and customize the Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL. The Logitech G app has a new KEYCONTROL feature for gaming keyboard customization. 

It allows you to tap into a plethora of customization options for the G515. You can remap keys, assign up to 15 functions to a single key, create shortcuts, create “layers” of key assignments, and customize the RGB backlighting. 

Bottom line

The Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL's low-profile design takes a fresh approach to gaming keyboards. The result is near perfect, with a few drawbacks. The build quality and materials all feel great, thanks to matte textures throughout. Tri-mode connectivity works flawlessly, especially with the convenience of 2:1 LIGHTSPEED dongle connectivity with other Logitech gaming gear. 

The G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL's core feature is its low-profile design, which can be a game changer. It’s comfortable for both typing and gaming, and the flattened keys can even improve performance by making finger movements between keys smoother and faster. At $139, it’s also a less expensive alternative to Logitech’s full-size low-profile model, the G915. 

It’s disappointing that the G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL isn’t hot-swappable like many other premium gaming keyboards are today. Of course, some gamers might not mind this, but hot swap functionality ensures you can repair defective switches, so it would have been a nice feature to have. 

However, overall, the Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL fills a unique niche in the gaming keyboard market, making it a terrific option for gamers who want a mechanical keyboard with a slim form factor. If you’d like to compare it to the competition, visit our guide to the best gaming keyboards for some alternatives. 

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The Razer Viper V3 Pro and Alienware Pro Wireless are the latest premium gaming mice offering pro-level performance for competitive esports titles. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect gaming mouse to complete your battlestation, these should be at the top of your list. 

Both mice earned our Editor’s Choice award, competing for spots on our best gaming mice rankings. They’re similarly priced, but there are some crucial differences, giving one mouse an edge over the other. 

Let’s dive into how these two premium gaming mice stack up – and which one you should buy. 

Razer Viper V3 Pro vs Alienware Pro Wireless: Price and specs

The Razer Viper V3 Pro and Alienware Pro Wireless are both pricey. The Viper is available in black or white for $159.99 while the Alienware Pro Wireless is available in slightly more muted shades of black and white for $149.99. 

Both mice have wireless and wired connectivity options, but there are some technical differences. The Viper V3 Pro features Razer’s Gen-2 Focus Pro 35K Optical Sensor with a max DPI of 35000 while the sensor on the Alienware Pro Wireless tops out at 26000 DPI. 

The Viper V3 Pro also has a higher wireless polling rate (8000Hz) thanks to Razer’s hyperpolling dongle. The Alienware Pro Wireless can also achieve 8000Hz polling, but only while wired. Its max wireless polling rate is 4000Hz. 

The Viper V3 Pro comes in at 5.0 x 2.5 x 1.57 inches and the Alienware Pro Wireless measures 4.9 x 2.5 x 1.6 inches. While the dimensions are very similar, the Viper V3 Pro is just a bit lighter, weighing in at 54 grams (1.9 ounces), while the Alienware Pro Wireless clocks in at 58 grams (2.04 ounces). 

Winner: Razer Viper V3 Pro 

Razer Viper V3 Pro vs Alienware Pro Wireless: Design

The Razer Viper V3 Pro and Alienware Pro Wireless are medium-sized gaming mice that can work with a variety of grip styles, although they are best for fingertip and claw grips. There are a few design differences, but they come down to personal preference. 

For example, the Alienware Pro Wireless features slightly larger main buttons than the Viper V3 Pro, but the Viper’s main buttons have more pronounced finger indentations. The side buttons on the Viper are also slightly larger and spaced further apart. 

The DPI and power buttons are located on the bottom of the mice, which many competitive gamers will appreciate since that layout prevents any accidental DPI changes. The skates on the bottom of the Viper are noticeably larger than those on the Alienware Pro Wireless, though. They each glide across mouse pads with ease, although the Viper is just a tad smoother. However, that could be a pro or a con depending on your playstyle. 

If you often get sweaty hands during intense gameplay, you might prefer the Viper V3 Pro since it includes stick-on grip tape right out of the box. 

Winner: Tie

Razer Viper V3 Pro vs Alienware Pro Wireless: Performance

The Razer Viper V3 Pro and Alienware Pro Wireless each deliver spectacular performance. However, after rigorous testing on games and everyday tasks, the Viper V3 Pro shows a slight edge. 

The chassis on the Viper V3 Pro is angled a bit more in the back compared to the Alienware Pro Wireless. That meant my hand could sit a little more naturally on the Viper, particularly when using my typical palm-claw grip style during games. 

Since the Viper didn’t fill my hand as much as the Alienware Pro Wireless, I noticed my palm getting sweaty less often. It’s not a deal breaker, but it is one less distraction during games, which can make the difference between winning and losing. 

Another feature I appreciated during gameplay was the shape and spacing of the side buttons on the Viper V3 Pro. They stick out a tad more than the side buttons on the Alienware Pro Wireless, which made it easier to feel out with my thumb. The Viper’s side buttons also have a gap between them, which led to fewer accidental button presses. 

While the Viper is a bit lighter, it’s not enough of a weight difference to give it a significant performance edge. That said, the true 8K wireless polling rate does give the Viper V3 Pro a major leg up over the Alienware Pro Wireless. If you want the fastest polling rate possible on a wireless mouse, the Viper V3 Pro is the way to go, hands down. 

Winner: Razer Viper V3 Pro 

Razer Viper V3 Pro vs Alienware Pro Wireless: Software

Software is crucial for fine-tuning the performance of a top-tier gaming mouse and both Razer and Alienware deliver. The Razer Viper V3 Pro uses Razer’s Synapse app while the Alienware Pro Wireless uses Alienware Command Center. Each app lets you customize all the performance features you could want, including lift-off distance, polling rate, and DPI presets. 

However, Razer Synapse includes one bonus feature that makes the Viper V3 Pro stand out: a Sensitivity Matcher tool. This feature is new to Synapse, so it might become available for other Razer mice down the road, but right now it’s exclusive for the Viper V3 Pro. 

This tool analyzes the sensor performance on your old gaming mouse to set a precise DPI for your new Viper V3 Pro that has the same feeling, even if it’s a different number. That means you can set up your Viper with a DPI that matches the feel and speed you’re already used to, keeping your reaction times in-tact. The Sensitivity Matcher worked great for me and took less than a minute to run. 

Winner: Razer Viper V3 Pro 

Overall winner: Razer Viper V3 Pro

If you want to play your favorite esports games like a pro, you need a great gaming mouse. The Razer Viper V3 Pro and Alienware Pro Wireless are top contenders, offering pro-level performance for a premium price. However, the Razer Viper V3 Pro has a few crucial advantages that give it the edge. 

The Viper V3 Pro sports the fastest wireless polling rate you can find on a gaming mouse today, maxing out at 8000Hz using Razer’s hyperpolling dongle. Combine that with its buttery-smooth skates and shockingly light weight, and you get a gaming mouse that’s built for maximum speed and precision. Slight updates to the chassis shape and button layout are the icing on the cake, and bonus grip tape is a welcome perk to complete the package. 

The Alienware Pro Wireless is also a great gaming mouse, but it has a lower max DPI and max wireless polling rate. Considering it’s only $10 less, the Viper V3 Pro offers better bang for your buck, which is important when you’re paying over $100 for a mouse. If you want to check out a few more alternatives, take a look at our guide to the best gaming mice or complete your setup with one of the best gaming keyboards.  

Want to play like the pros? The Razer Viper V3 Pro is the gaming mouse you’re looking for. The latest iteration of Razer’s top esports gaming mouse takes a design that was already great and updates it with incredibly low weight and a true wireless 8K polling rate. The result is a premium gaming mouse that doesn’t compromise on performance. 

If you pick up a Viper V3 Pro, you’ll want to pair it with one of the top gaming keyboards to complete your setup. Alternatively, if you’re a mobile gamer, make sure to check out our guide to the best gaming laptops so you can use the Viper V3 Pro on the go. 

Here’s an in-depth look at the Razer Viper V3 Pro, the new king of esports gaming mice. 

Razer Viper V3 Pro: Price and specs

The Razer Viper V3 Pro is available in black or white for $159.99. In the box you get the ultralight wireless mouse, the hyperpolling dongle for 8K wireless polling, and a set of grip tape stickers. 

The Viper V3 Pro measures 5.0 x 2.5 x 1.57 inches and weighs a mere 54 grams. It includes Razer’s Gen-3 Optical Mouse Switches, which have a lifespan of 90 million clicks. It has the Gen-2 Focus Pro 35K Optical Sensor with a max DPI of 35000 housed within, and you can use it wireless (with the hyperpolling dongle for 8K polling) or wired with the USB-C cable that detaches from the dongle. 

Razer Viper V3 Pro: Design

The design of the Razer Viper V3 Pro seems pretty basic at a glance, but there are a lot of details worth noting. The most obvious is the incredibly low weight. The Viper V3 Pro weighs only 54 grams (1.9 ounces), making it one of the lightest mice we’ve ever tested and certainly the lightest wireless mouse. 

The Viper V3 Pro doesn’t only have bragging rights over its record-low weight, it’s also one of the first gaming mice to offer a true wireless 8000Hz polling rate. An earlier model, the Viper 8K, offered an 8K polling rate wired, but the Viper V3 Pro ditches the cable entirely—using Razer’s hyperpolling dongle to offer wired-level performance without needing to be plugged in. 

There’s a lot to love about the chassis design of the Viper V3 Pro, as well. It has a fairly basic, minimalistic look that’s great for gamers who aren’t into over-the-top, “gamerfied” RGB designs of other mice. Razer also made some adjustments to the design with input from 45 esports pros—including Zekken, who won the 2024 Valorant Champions Tour using a prototype of the Viper V3 Pro.  

One design adjustment I noticed right away was the spacing of the Viper’s side buttons. They’re more pronounced and further apart than on many other gaming mice. This reduces the likelihood of accidentally pressing the wrong side button or hitting both at once. 

The chassis shape is designed mainly for fingertip and claw grip styles, but it also worked great for me as a palm-claw player. The back end of the chassis is angled in a way that supports your palm while helping to elevate your fingers for a typical claw-style grip. 

Razer also flattened the sides of the mouse and increased the finger grooves on the main buttons, both of which improve comfort during long game sessions. The DPI button is located on the bottom of the mouse, ensuring you don’t accidentally press it during gameplay. The bottom of the Viper V3 Pro also has larger skates than previous models, which, combined with the ultra-low weight, makes this mouse glide effortlessly.

Razer Viper V3 Pro: Performance

If you’re looking for a gaming mouse that delivers pro-level performance with no compromises, look no further. Gaming with the Razer Viper V3 Pro is seamless, intuitive, and so fast it’s almost like you’re playing with mind control. 

I tested the Viper V3 Pro in Fortnite and Roboquest, a fast-paced, quirky new roguelite FPS. Both games require snappy mouse movement and accurate tracking to ensure you have a consistently accurate aim. The Viper V3 Pro delivered across the board, boasting some of the most precise tracking I’ve ever experienced in a gaming mouse. It’s so light that it can also maximize the benefits of its high-performance tracking, polling rate, and DPI, especially with the help of its buttery-smooth skates. 

While it might seem like a little thing, a heavy mouse with poor skates can directly impact your performance. It’s not a cheat code for going pro, but the performance was noticeable enough in my gaming sessions that it made all the difference between winning a match in Fortnite or missing a shot in Roboquest. The 8K wireless polling rate was the icing on the cake, minimizing my reaction times as much as possible. 

The layout and shape of the Viper V3 Pro also felt great in play. Side buttons are crucial for my gameplay since I like to use them for actions like dodging or sprinting. The pronounced shape of the side buttons on the Viper V3 Pro and the extra bit of spacing made me more confident every time I reached for them. It’s a minor detail, but that confidence is another factor that can make the difference between winning or losing a match in the space of a second. 

The main buttons and scroll wheel all performed smoothly with no issues. The primary buttons have a soft click that’s not too loud and each requires just the right amount of force that I never found my fingers cramping up or tiring out. The scroll wheel has a nice bit of tactile feedback that I appreciated while swapping weapons in-game, as well. 

Razer Viper V3 Pro: Software

The Razer Viper V3 Pro uses Razer’s standard Synapse software, but it includes a new, exclusive feature I hope to see made available to other mice in the future. Synapse now has a “Sensitivity Matcher” tool exclusively for the Viper V3 Pro, which allows you to calibrate the mouse to match the feel and performance of other gaming mice. 

For instance, my main gaming mouse used to be the Logitech G305, which I normally had set to 1600 DPI. I connected both the G305 and the Viper V3 Pro to my PC and pulled up the Sensitivity Matcher in Synapse. Calibration took less than a minute and set the DPI of my Viper V3 Pro to exactly 1413 to match the feel of the 1600 DPI I was using on the Logitech G305. 

The Sensitivity Matcher tool allows you to bypass that awkward “breaking it in” phase of using a new gaming mouse where you adapt to the feel of a new sensor and weight. My reaction times and muscle memory are already dependent on the feel of a specific DPI and mouse sensor, so it was really cool to quickly set up the Viper V3 Pro to perfectly match my existing gameplay style (rather than the other way around). 

In addition to the Sensitivity Matcher tool, Synapse has all the performance customization options you could want. You can customize the DPI sensitivity stages and even add additional stages beyond the default five. Synapse is also where you can set your default polling rate and a separate in-game polling rate. This helps save battery life since the 8K polling rate has a much higher power draw than slower polling rates. 

There are also options for adjusting tracking sensitivity based on your mouse mat surface. You can set the timer for when your mouse goes into power-saving mode, as well.

Bottom line

The Razer Viper V3 Pro blew me away during my testing. It’s quite pricey at $159.99, but you truly get what you pay for and that’s premium pro-level performance. From its shockingly low weight to its true wireless 8K polling rate, the Viper V3 Pro is one of the top gaming mice you can buy. 

Gameplay with the Viper V3 Pro is seamless, intuitive, and so fast it’s as if there’s a direct link between your brain and the game. The shape and button layout are perfect for claw grip styles and feel great during long gameplay sessions. If you’re prone to sweaty hands, you can customize your Viper with the grip tape stickers included in the box. Plus, software features like the exclusive Sensitivity Matcher tool make it easy to switch from a different mouse without throwing off your gameplay. 

Overall, it’s hard to go wrong with this mouse. If you want a no-compromises pro gaming mouse, the Razer Viper V3 Pro should be top your list. In the meantime, why not check out our guide to the best gaming mice to compare it to the competition? 

The Endgame Gear OP1 8k is so lightweight you’ll forget it’s there — until you notice how fast and precise your gaming performance is. This is a compact gaming mouse that’s built for speed. From its buttery smooth PTFE skates to its ultralight, flexible fabric cable, the OP1 8k delivers top performance for those rapid-fire moments in-game. It comes at a fair price ($75), too, and it’s packed with customizability. 

The OP1 8k is now one of my favorite gaming mice, and certainly the lightest. It might just make the cut for our list of the best gaming mice, especially when it comes to weight. If you’re looking for a speedy, compact mouse that can keep up in high-speed games, you don’t want to miss out on this one. 

Here’s an in-depth look at my experience putting the Endgame Gear OP1 8k to the test. 

Endgame Gear OP1 8k: Price and specs

The Endgame Gear OP1 8k gaming mouse has a mid-range price at $74.99 with two color options: black or white (with black accents). It’s fairly compact, measuring 4.65 x 2.38 x 1.46 inches and weighing in at just 50.5 grams. That small size makes it perfect for gamers who prefer a “claw” style grip or anyone with small hands. 

The OP1 8k is USB Type-A wired and, although the cable doesn’t unplug from the mouse, you can swap it out with another OP1 Flex Cord if it needs to be replaced. In the box you also get a set of replacement PTFE skates and some stick-on grip skins for the sides of the mouse, which are a nice add-on. 

Endgame Gear OP1 8k: Design

The first thing I noticed about the Endgame Gear OP1 8k is how light it is. It weighs just 50.5 grams, which is even lighter than the Alienware Pro Wireless, one of our top gaming mice. It’s definitely one of the lightest gaming mice we’ve ever tested. 

Despite being a wired mouse, the OP1 8k still felt incredibly light and free on my mouse pad. The cable is made of flexible fabric that bends and moves as easily as a shoelace. It doesn’t have the stiffness and rigidity of a braided or rubber cable, which gives the OP1 8k an edge compared to other wired gaming mice. 

Overall, the OP1 8k has a minimal, simplistic design. Both the black and white colorways are easy to mix into any desk setup. If you want a gaming mouse that doesn’t have the over-the-top RGB gamer aesthetic, this one is worth checking out. However, if you need a mouse with several utility buttons, the OP1 8k might not be right for you. Besides the two main top buttons, it only has two side buttons (located on the left side). 

The shape of the OP1 8k is neutral, though, so left-handed gamers can use it, as long as you don’t mind the side button placement. There’s also a “Left-handed Mode” option in the configuration software. The buttons all feel clicky and snappy right out of the box. The scroll wheel has a bit of feedback, as well, with small bumps for scrolling and a soft click when you press on it. 

It’s worth noting that the CPI/DPI button is on the bottom of the OP1 8k, which may be a drawback for some gamers. I prefer having it on the bottom so I don’t accidentally press it during games. If you do want quick access to the CPI button, though, the bottom placement won’t work for you.

One particularly interesting feature of the OP1 8k is the hot-swappable button switches. You might be familiar with changing your mechanical keyboard switches, but swapping out your mouse switches isn’t quite as common. Endgame Gear offers several mouse switch packs you can use to change up the sound and feel of the OP1 8k. 

I tried out one of these and found the hot-swap process super easy. The OP1 8k comes with clicky Kailh GX switches. They sounded great, but I prefer quieter mouse buttons, so I swapped out the Kailh GX switches for a set of Huano Silent 50-60gf switches. The process took about ten minutes from start to finish and my OP1 8k still works and sounds great. 

Besides customization, the option to hot-swap the switches in your gaming mouse also improves durability and the value you get for your money. It’s fairly common for mouse buttons to get mushy eventually, especially for gamers. With the OP1 8k, you can simply buy a new set of switches for $7 instead of being forced to toss your $75 mouse.

Endgame Gear OP1 8k: Performance

I thoroughly enjoyed gaming with the OP1 8k. The incredibly low weight and flexible cable make it effortless to fly across your mousepad in those high-octane games where every second counts. The skates on the bottom are buttery smooth so there’s practically no friction. 

Since this is a wired mouse, you don’t have to worry about running into latency issues or a dead battery. The polling rate is preset to 8000Hz, so you get the fastest performance possible right out of the box. You can adjust the polling rate down to 4000Hz, 2000Hz, or even 1000Hz to suit your gaming style. 

I tested the OP1 8k in a variety of games with both the stock Kailh GX switches and the Huano Silent switches I swapped them out for. Both switches felt and performed great. My aim and movement in Fortnite was quick and precise and the OP1 8k never failed to register a single click. 

The same applies to the side buttons. I like to assign dodge movements to my side mouse buttons, so snappy performance is crucial for those, as well. The side buttons on the OP1 8k didn’t let me down. They are firm enough that I didn’t click them on accident, but they aren’t so stiff that they delayed my dodge timing in Enshrouded or Horizon: Zero Dawn. It’s a sweet spot that’s perfect for precision movement in fast-paced games. The OP1 8k paired especially well with my Endgame Gear KB65HE gaming keyboard. 

The cable didn’t give me any trouble during gameplay, either. The cable connector has a slight upward bend where it meets the body of the OP1 8k, so the front edge of the cable is elevated a bit. This keeps the cable from getting caught up in front of the mouse and helps minimize drag. I barely noticed the cable was there during my gameplay sessions. It’s so light and flexible that the OP1 8k might as well be wireless.

The only drawback I noticed in my testing was heat management. The smooth, matte case of the OP1 8k can get a bit warm during long, intense gaming sessions. Luckily, the OP1 comes with a set of stick-on grip skins for the sides of the mouse, which do help a bit. However, the top of the mouse is the main area where I noticed heat building up. If you’re someone who often gets sweaty palms, you might be better off with a honeycomb-style mouse. 

Endgame Gear OP1 8k: Software

The Endgame Gear OP1 8k has a basic configuration tool that looks pretty dated, but offers all the basic customization options you need. You can change the preset DPI options, adjust multiclick filters for each button, customize the polling rate, and remap all the buttons. There are also options to turn on or off Motion Sync and Slamclick filtering. 

The configuration tool might not be fancy, but it got the job done for me. I prefer to have my DPI at 1200, which is right between two of the default preset DPI options. I could set my own DPI profiles, which was nice. If you’re left-handed, there’s also an option to remap the buttons for “Left-handed Mode” under the Button Mapping tab.

Bottom Line

The Endgame Gear OP1 8k is a top-tier gaming mouse that packs a lot of value into a small chassis. The 8k polling rate it’s named for makes a difference in-game, delivering the fastest connection possible. The incredibly low weight gives you a serious edge, as well. If you’re worried about the cable slowing you down, don’t be. It’s lightweight and flexible, so it’s not going to get caught up on your mousepad or the edge of your desk.

The OP1 8k has a mid-range price at $75, but the amount of customization you get takes the value up a notch. The option to easily hot-swap the button switches means this mouse can last you years on end. You can even swap out the fabric cable if you ever need to. 

While the software could look a bit better, it includes all the customization options you could need and works well. The ambidextrous design makes the OP1 8k a great option for left-handed gamers, as well. 

However, if you’re looking for a wireless alternative, you might be better served with the Alienware Pro Wireless. If you need a gaming mouse with more utility buttons, take a look at the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite. 

Overall, the Endgame Gear OP1 8k is easy to recommend, especially for gamers who want a small, light mouse for fast-paced gameplay.

Gaming keyboards designed for competitive gaming are great, but if you’d prefer something more casual with adorable aesthetics and quiet linear switches, look no further than the Akko Sailor Moon Crystal (5087B v2).

In collaboration with the beloved Japanese animated series, Akko has crafted an excellent keyboard with a style primarily utilizing pink hues alongside iconography relevant to the series—like illustrations of cat companions Luna and Artemis. 

Even if you’re unaware of the series, Akko’s near-silent Fairy switches, per-key RGB lighting, soft PBT caps, and satisfying 3.3mm travel are impressive in their own right. Frankly, you don’t need to be a fan of Sailor Moon to appreciate this keyboard’s visual flair. It’s absolutely one of the best gaming keyboards out there, but if you’d like to know whether it’s right for you, keep reading.

Sailor Moon Crystal (5087B v2): Price and configuration

The Sailor Moon Crystal (5087Bv2) is a tenkeyless keyboard utilizing a gasket structure, with our model featuring the silent Akko Fairy switches. Kailh Ice Cream Pink and Purple switches are also available if you’d prefer clicky keypresses. Its connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.0, a 2.4Ghz dongle, and a wired USB Type-C connection. Our model is available for $99 on Akko’s website, though the alternative switch options bring the total cost up to $106. I only wish Akko offered a version of this keyboard with a palm rest.

This isn’t the only Sailor Moon Crystal keyboard available from Akko, with the 5108S ($99), 3087 ($79), 3108v2 ($89), 5108B ($109), and 3108RF ($105) revealing extensive collaborations between the two. 

Sailor Moon Crystal (5087B v2): Design

The Akko Sailor Moon Crystal is designed in collaboration with the popular Japanese animated series Sailor Moon Crystal, a modern adaptation of the original Sailor Moon manga.

Even if you aren’t caught up on the intricacies of anime, the keyboard’s references are minimalistic enough that even non-fans can enjoy its aesthetic.

Its PBT keycaps are a mix of light pink with a darker hue primarily for functional keys like Backspace, Shift, Tab, and more. Its most explicit reference to the series is in the space bar, where Sailor Moon Crystal is written in pink cursive script.

Elsewhere, a cute illustration of Luna is on the escape key, while one of Artemis is on a key that brings up the calculator by default. This can be rebound through Akko’s website (as long as you have the drivers installed).

While you’ll appreciate these illustrations more with knowledge of the show, anyone can enjoy them since they’re pretty much just cute black and white cats. The other illustrations are on the arrow keys, with pink cat paws pointing in each direction, alongside a pink Sailor Moon bow with a golden brooch at the center of the Enter key.

Beneath the surface, its Akko Fairy linear switches utilize three pastel colors with a purple switch, pink border, and blue base. Beyond being absolutely adorable—and much preferring them over their monotone alternatives—they allow for quieter keypresses. It has 3.3mm of travel and utilizes a gasket mount structure for a cushioned typing experience.

And, of course, each of its sockets is hot-swappable, alongside N-key rollover ensuring each press is scanned individually by the keyboard itself to allow for perfect accuracy.

Its keys are also at different heights, with the top two rows being 10.5mm, the third row at 8.3m, the fourth row at 6.9mm, and the bottom two at 7.1mm. This creates an alluring curvature, great for both ergonomics and aesthetics, which is common among gaming keyboards.

Its per-key RGB lighting allows you to implement a color scheme befitting the keyboard’s prominent hues, as its base RGB spread doesn’t fit the style. I initially opted for fully white keys to compliment the pink keyboard, and it looked absolutely adorable. The Sailor Moon Crystal also has customizable RGB lighting on the side, but we’ve yet to figure out how to change its colors and are still awaiting comment from Akko officials.

The Sailor Moon Crystal weighs 1.9 pounds and measures 14.5 x 5.7 x 1.2 inches. This is unsurprisingly larger than the Akko PC Tokyo (MOD007B) (2.2 pounds, 13.1 x 5.8 x 1.3 inches), but being a beefy competitive keyboard, it weighs more. While the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro (3.7 pounds, 16.5 x 7.2 x 2.8 inches) is also a tenkeyless keyboard, it’s larger and heavier. 

Sailor Moon Crystal (5087B v2): Software

Similar to the PC Tokyo, the Sailor Moon Crystal’s software cannot be modified through an official application. Users must download the company’s driver through its website and make modifications on the browser page. Akko has informed me that the company is working on a dedicated application, but we won’t shy away from how inconvenient it can be until then.

Unlike the MOD007B, the Sailor Moon Crystal doesn’t hide its wireless connectivity switch beneath the keyboard keys–which forced me to pull out the caps lock to turn the feature on. Thankfully, it’s nestled beneath the keyboard, with USB (which is for wired only), Windows, or Mac options to choose from. The 2.4Ghz mode requires no tinkering beyond just plugging the USB in. Even in 2.4Ghz and Bluetooth mode, you can still use the website to make changes.

Akko’s software features customizable key sensitivity, ranging anywhere from a +1 to 10. It also has options for how long the keyboard takes before going to sleep on 2.4Ghz or Bluetooth modes, ranging anywhere from 10 to 60 minutes. Similar options are available for how long before the RGB lighting turns off, with choices between one and 60 minutes.

Its per-key RGB lighting is fully customizable in the browser’s Light section. The base option is “Always on,” where I simply made each key white. But you can swap between dozens of light modes, including ordinary options like Breathe and Ripple, alongside unique options like Stars Twinkle and Flowing Spring. You can even have the keys react with the music you’re listening to. However, I wish swapping between these options took less time to load, as it makes experimenting cumbersome.

There’s also the Share section, which allows you to do without the effort of customizing yourself and instead apply user-made color layouts. Users can even upload their own if they’re particularly proud of something they’ve created, with current popular examples being a Sakura layout that utilizes a blend of light and darker pink hues, perfectly complimenting the Sailor Moon Crystal keyboard. Otherwise, you can get fades of certain colors and themes inspired by Cyberpunk with bold blues and purples. It’s plenty of fun to install these and see which one you like the most.

Sailor Moon Crystal (5087B v2): Performance

The Sailor Moon Crystal’s base model with Akko Fairy linear switches is designed to be quiet, and while it’s near-impossible for a keyboard to be 100% silent, you’ll love this if you’re the type who prefers friends in Discord calls not hearing you clacking away.

While writing this review, I can hear the faintest, hollow keypresses, and even when I'm working at my fastest speed, it’s as if I’m tippy-toeing between every letter. Thankfully, its silence doesn’t detract from its feel, as every click is cushioned yet still satisfying with its perfectly smooth PBT keycaps. If you’re uncomfortable with overly soft key presses, you might not enjoy how it feels. While some might describe it as hollow, its cushioned texture is satisfying for a silent keyboard.

Otherwise, the Sailor Moon Crystal isn’t explicitly designed for competitive gaming, but it was still more than satisfactory for my sessions. I’m not the type of person who makes much use of modifiable actuation force or customizable profiles, but if you are, you might want to look elsewhere.

I played Warhammer 40,000k: Darktide and had no issue as I ran through heretic-infested gothic citadels, strafing left and right while I whacked at enemies with my axe. Its 3.3mm of travel let me jump between each keystroke with ease, swiftly swapping weapons and activating my ultimate without feeling slowed or bogged down. 

Bottom line

Akko’s Sailor Moon Crystal (5087B v2) sets out to accomplish a specific goal and does so excellently. Consumers who are fans of the Sailor Moon series (or just love cute aesthetics), prefer silent switches, love soft keycaps, aren’t competitive gamers, and want per-key RGB lighting should look no further. The only major flaw here comes in due to the lack of dedicated modifying software, alongside it being a bit difficult to customize to begin with.

If you’d prefer something more competitive but still seek a cutesy style, we highly recommend the Akko PC Tokyo (MOD007B). And, if you’d rather do without the pink, the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL. Otherwise, the Sailor Moon Crystal (5087B v2) is absolutely worth it. 

The Endgame Gear KB65HE is a snappy, precise gaming keyboard with great all-around build quality and performance. Thanks to speedy Hall Effect switches, it can be a game-changer in fast-paced, rapid-trigger gameplay. A full aluminum case and doubleshot PBT keycaps make this compact keyboard super durable, as well. 

Whether you’re a fan of esports titles where speed and precision are crucial or you’re looking to upgrade your home gaming setup, the KB65HE is a stellar 65% keyboard you don’t want to miss. Here’s my in-depth analysis of it after testing it out for typing and gaming.

Endgame Gear KB65HE price and configurations

The Endgame Gear KB65HE gaming keyboard is available to buy for $139.99, fully assembled and ready to use. That’s similar to another Hall Effect keyboard we recently covered, the Akko PC Tokyo MOD007B, which is priced at $149.99. 

The KB65HE is currently only available in matte black. It comes with a full aluminum case, Gateron KS-37B POM Hall Effect switches, pre-lubricated stabilizers, Ducky doubleshot PBT keycaps, and a braided detachable USB-C cable. 

Endgame Gear KB65HE design

The design of the Endgame Gear KB65HE is minimalistic with a focus on build quality. I was particularly impressed by the full aluminum case which measures 12.4 x 4.3 x 1.5 inches and weighs 2.3 pounds. 

This keyboard feels heavy and sturdy right out of the box. The weight, combined with the rubber grip feet on the bottom, keeps the KB65HE from moving around on your desk while gaming. You also get full RGB, although customization is limited to some preset modes you can tweak from the Endgame Gear app. 

This is a 65% size keyboard, so it’s pretty compact and simplistic. There are no special media keys or knobs, which keeps the keyboard’s footprint on your desk as small as possible. That’s ideal for esports titles and other fast-paced games where you might want to angle your keyboard while still having plenty of space for your mouse. 

However, the trade-off with this size is that there is no function row or number pad. So, if those are crucial for your favorite games, there might be better picks than the KB65HE. Take a look at our guide to the best gaming keyboards for some larger alternatives. 

Endgame Gear KB65HE keys

I really liked the keys on the KB65HE. While they could sound better, they feel great for both typing and gaming. The KB65HE is hot-swappable, but it’s a Hall Effect keyboard, so it’s only compatible with magnetic Hall Effect switches. These are a special type of keyboard switch that’s ideal for gaming since HE switches have minimal internal friction. 

The Hall Effect switches included with the KB65HE are the Gateron KS-37B, which are made with self-lubricating POM and come with pre-lubed stainless steel springs. They have an incredibly light 30g actuation force with a 50g bottom-out force. Since these are HE switches, you can customize the actuation point in the Endgame Gear app to make the switches more or less responsive based on your playstyle. 

The Gateron KS-37B switches were super snappy right out of the box for me. They have fast and consistent rebound so I never missed a keystroke even in rapid-trigger gameplay. They have a soft metallic sound when bottoming out. It doesn’t sound bad but it’s not “thocky” either. However, the pre-installed, pre-lubed stabilizers sound good. They’re not scratchy or wobbly and bottom out just as smooth and fast as the other keys. 

The keycaps included with the KB65HE are basic matte black, but they feel great. They’re doubleshot PBT keycaps from Ducky, so you won’t have to worry about durability. They have a slightly rough texture on top, too, which is nice for providing a bit of grip. The legends are also transparent for RGB shine-through.

Endgame Gear KB65HE performance

The KB65HE shines when it comes to gaming performance. From the build quality to the HE switches, I had a great time testing this keyboard out, and even though I’m used to playing my favorite games on a dedicated gaming keyboard (like the Razer BlackWidow V4 75%), the Hall Effect switches on the KB65HE still felt noticeably faster. 

The lack of friction and the swift rebound action on these switches make them more responsive than a typical mechanical switch. In fast-paced games, even a few milliseconds can make a difference, so that added responsiveness can be a big advantage. 

I tried out the KB65HE in a variety of games, from a few rounds of battle royale in Fortnite to some hardcore Minecraft and a bit of casual Starfield. It’s a great all-around gaming keyboard, but its strengths shine most in fast-paced gameplay. I noticed my reaction times felt a bit quicker than normal in Fortnite and even won the first match I played with the KB65HE. 

In more casual games like Minecraft and Starfield, the timing advantage you get from the Hall Effect switches isn’t as noticeable, but it does make gameplay feel quick and precise. For instance, the double-tap W control to sprint in Minecraft always registered correctly for me.  

One thing that particularly stood out to me was the low actuation force on the Gateron KS-37B switches. My hands are a bit smaller than average, so reaching across my keyboard to hit shift or control keys with my pinkie can sometimes be a stretch and result in poor accuracy.

That wasn’t the case here. The low actuation force on the KB65HE allowed me to more comfortably hold down shortcut keys without taking my fingers off the movement keys. If you’re someone who has short fingers or gets hand cramps easily, this keyboard could be a great fit.

Of course, the other side of that is that people who tend to be less precise with their keystrokes or “button mash” may end up with worse accuracy while using these HE switches. You can customize the actuation point, but if you’re someone who tends to hit your keys pretty hard to begin with, you might find yourself accidentally actuating keys often.

The KB65HE isn’t just for gaming. It’s also a good all-around keyboard. The speedy HE switches can be great for fast typists. On the Monkeytype typing test, I scored 100 wpm with 98% accuracy on the KB65HE, which is higher than my average of 84 wpm and 94.3% accuracy.

Endgame Gear KB65HE connectivity

You get a detachable braided USB-C cable with the KB65HE, but there is no option for wireless use. That wasn’t a problem for me since I prefer to use wired gaming keyboards to minimize latency, but if you want a cable-free desk setup, you might want to go with something like the Alienware Pro Wireless instead. 

It’s worth noting that the USB-C port on the back of the KB65HE is a bit recessed with a slightly narrow, rounded shape. So, if you want to replace the stock cable with a different one (like a coiled aviator cable), you’ll have to pick one with a rounded cable header. Cables with rectangular or bulky cable headers won’t fit. 

Endgame Gear KB65HE software

If you want to customize the lighting, performance, or key bindings on the KB65HE, you can download the free Endgame Gear app. It’s fairly simple and lightweight and worked well in my testing. You can download the app directly from the KB65HE product page on the Endgame Gear website. 

Lighting customization is limited to some preset modes, but you can still customize those modes to a certain degree. For example, on movement-based modes like “Surf to the left”( my personal favorite), you can change the light movement speed, which is nice. If you want to tweak the performance of the Hall Effect switches, navigate to the “Advanced” tab to adjust the pressed and released trigger thresholds.

Bottom line

The Endgame Gear KB65HE is a fantastic gaming keyboard, especially for fast-paced titles where the timing of every keystroke makes a difference. The Hall Effect switches deliver some of the fastest performance you can get on a gaming keyboard and allow you to customize your switches according to your personal playstyle. The build quality of the KB65HE is also superb, although the sound quality of the switches could be better. 

While the KB65HE is great, it isn’t wireless and it’s not a full-size keyboard. If you’re on the hunt for a top wireless gaming keyboard, take a look at the similarly-sized Alienware Pro Wireless. If the function row and number pad are a must-have for you, check out the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro.  

If you want to learn how to build a keyboard, this easy gaming build is a great place to start. DIY keyboards can be a bit overwhelming at first, especially when it comes to gaming. For a good gaming keyboard, you want light and fast switches, a wired case, and preferably some RGB. This build has all of that and it’s beginner friendly! 

This guide covers all of the parts you need and the step-by-step build process.

How to build a keyboard: DIY gaming build overview

 I build and test keyboards for a living, so I specifically chose the parts for this list with gaming in mind. There is some room for personalization, though. For instance, you can get the case kit with or without switches. Adding switches is only about $20 extra, so if you want to save a bit of money, that could be a great solution. 

Here’s an overview of the parts you’ll need: 

Case kit: Ducky ProjectD Tinker65

This build starts with the ProjectD Tinker65 case kit. ProjectD is a sub-brand of Ducky, which is known for its colorful premium mechanical keyboards. The Tinker65 is a DIY kit, which means it comes pre-assembled with the case, PCB, plate, sound-dampening foam, gasket pads, and USB-C cable. I highly recommend beginners use a DIY kit like the Tinker65. It makes building your first keyboard much easier while still leaving room for customization in the future.

The Tinker65 has a sleek case design and includes a braided detachable USB-C cable. It’s compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin switches, so you can use virtually any switches you want with this board. 

It also includes south-facing RGB that’s fully customizable through the free VIA app, which you can use through your browser. It’s one of my favorite keyboard customization apps since it’s so easy to use, so it’s nice that the Tinker65 is compatible out of the box. 

Overall, the Tinker65 is a good choice for anyone who wants to learn how to build a keyboard without making it too complicated. The RGB and USB-C wired connection also make this perfect for gaming. 

The only downside is the somewhat awkward process of opening the case. If you want to do any mods, like a tape mod, you will need to take the keyboard apart. Unfortunately, the way the Tinker65 is designed can make that a little challenging. The top half of the case snaps onto the lower half, so you need to be very careful popping the two halves apart to ensure the plastic doesn’t break. I was able to disassemble it, though, and successfully did a few mods on mine. 

Switches: Kailh Box Jellyfish

It’s hard to go wrong with Kailh Box switches, but there are a lot to choose from. For this build, I selected the Kailh Box Jellyfish since it’s a balanced switch that’s good for both gaming and typing. 

The Kailh Box Jellyfish is a 5-pin linear switch with 50g actuation force and 4mm of total key travel. The body is fully clear, which is perfect for the RGB included on the Tinker65. These switches are a bit pricey, coming in at $52 for 70 switches (or $0.60 per switch), so if you want a cheaper alternative, go for a Cherry-style linear switch.

Keycaps: Ducky Dino MDA

When it comes to keycaps, you can choose almost anything. This is the easiest (and often most fun) part of learning how to build a keyboard since you can choose whatever keycaps you want. Your keycaps don’t impact the performance of your keyboard much, although the shape of the keycap can change how your switches sound. 

For this build, I went with a set of Ducky Dino MDA keycaps. They’re made of PBT, which is much more durable and high-quality compared to cheaper ABS. I love the font and color scheme of this set and they only cost $29, which is a great price for a full set of PBT keycaps. 

A keycap profile is the shape of the keycap. Cherry and OEM keycaps are the most popular and usually what most people are used to. XDA keycaps have a wide, flat top that’s great for typing but not as convenient for gaming. MDA was the perfect mix of XDA and Cherry, making this set of Ducky keycaps good for both typing and gaming. You can swap them out for any keycaps you want, though.

Tools: Switch puller, keycap puller, and switch lubrication kit

Lastly, you will need a few tools for this build, including a keycap puller, a switch puller, a small screwdriver, and a switch lubrication kit. I recommend lubricating your switches to make them as smooth, fast, and quiet as possible, but that step is completely optional. 

The ProjectD Tinker65 includes a switch puller and keycap puller, so you shouldn’t need to buy those. If you do want to lubricate your switches, you can pick up a kit on Amazon for $15. 

Build process: 3 easy steps

Now that you have all the parts you need for this easy gaming build, it’s time to learn how to build a keyboard. It only requires three steps, although if you want to lubricate your switches, you will have to do that first. 

Step 1: Install switches

Since the ProjectD Tinker65 is a case kit, it’s ready to go right out of the box. So, we can jump straight to installing the switches. This step works the same way regardless of whether or not you lubricated your switches first. 

Line up a switch so the two metal pins on the bottom match up with the two slots in the north edge of a switch socket. The ProjectD Tinker65 has south-facing RGB so the RGB lighting gap on the switch should be facing south (toward the spacebar). When you have the switch lined up, sit it in the switch socket and press down until it clicks into place. 

The Kailh Box Jellyfish was a bit of a tight fit in the sockets on the Tinker65, so it may require a bit of force. Don’t be worried if the plastic plate on the Tinker65 flexes, though – that’s just the keyboard’s gasket structure. 

Step 2: Install keycaps

After each switch is snapped into place on the Tinker65, you can install your keycaps. This is super easy, but you may want to pull up a picture or another keyboard to make sure you put all your keycaps in the right spot. Simply sit a keycap on top of a switch and press down. 

The keycap should pop into place on the switch without much force. Keep in mind, you’ll need to press larger keys down on each side to make sure the stabilizers are in place, as well.

Step 3: Test keys and customize RGB

The final step in the keyboard build process is testing. You can use a typing tool to make sure each key is working right. My personal favorite is monkeytype, which is easy to use and has a bunch of fun color themes. Alternatively, you can open a blank text document and press each key to make sure it registers. 

If any keys aren’t working, remove the keycap and the switch. Usually this is due to a bent switch pin. If so, simply take a pair of tweezers or needlenose pillars and gently bend the pin straight again then reinstall it. 

During this step, you can also use VIA to customize the RGB on the Tinker65. VIA allows you to customize your RGB per-key or use a few pre-made lighting patterns. It’s free and you can use it directly through your browser so you don’t even need to download anything.  

Learn how to build a keyboard with the Ducky ProjectD Tinker65

Learning how to build a keyboard is a great way to get into the custom keyboard hobby. This gaming keyboard build with the ProjectD Tinker65 is perfect for beginners since the pre-assembled case kit streamlines the build process. At the same time, you get a fast USB-C wired connection and RGB, both must-have features on any gaming keyboard. 

If you’re looking for ways to upgrade your custom keyboard or build your keyboard modding skills, check out our guide to the top six cheap and easy mechanical keyboard mods next. 

Razer is no stranger to high-quality products with premium features for the pickiest of gamers, and the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL is no exception. With the Razer page itself featuring quotes from a variety of pro eSports players complimenting the product, and its slogan being “For the pro,” it’s clear who the Huntsman V3 Pro TKL is made for.

And while its high price point and extensive list of additional features like rapid fire mode and adjustable actuation won’t be for everyone, its sturdy keycaps, ergonomic palmrest, and satisfying type feel make it a hit for anyone in need of a quality tenkeyless gaming keyboard. While we consider it one of the best gaming keyboards out there, keep reading to decide if it’s the right one for you. 

Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL price and configuration

The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro comes in three configurations. The model we tested is tenkeyless and comes in at $219 on Razer’s website with a palmrest, while the full Pro features a number pad and is $249. The cheapest model is the Mini, which is a 60% keyboard without a number pad or palmrest and doesn’t even have FN keys, available for $179. 

Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL design

The Huntsman V3 Pro TKL design doesn’t stray from most gaming keyboards (and many Razer products), with a black aesthetic and per-key RGB lighting. At the very least, it stands out more than true all-black styles thanks to its brushed dark gray aluminum alloy base. Its leatherette palmrest magnetically attaches to the lower base’s border with little to no effort.

As this is the tenkeyless design, you shouldn’t expect the inclusion of a number pad, but it’s a full keyboard otherwise. At the right rests a dedicated space for the arrow keys, a volume dial, two additional circular buttons (one of which opens Xbox Game Bar by default), and a collection of editing keys like Insert and Home. Keep in mind that the Huntsman V3 Pro TKL is not a wireless keyboard, with its only available port being the one used to connect its USB Type-C cable.

Holding FN highlights the keys that can be used with alternate actions, with an LED display above the arrow keys showing when caps lock is toggled. It also has an additional row of 10 circles in its lower half for certain keyboard settings from its lowest to highest. For example, holding FN and Tab while in FPS Rapid Trigger mode (which is activated through FN + Page Down) will enter a mode to edit actuation force, with it highlighting the fourth circle by default. Pressing the arrow keys right or up increases the value, while left or down decreases it.

Actuation force determines the amount of distance needed to activate a keypress, with the lowest value of 0.1 millimeters being the first circle in the LED display, while 3.6mm is the final circle through the on-board settings. The default actuation force is 2.0mm, but you can go as far as 4.0mm through the Razer Synapse application. 

Rapid Trigger mode is also available, which modifies the reset point and allows the user to quickly spam a key without worrying about their default actuation. You can even go into Synapse and separate up and down sensitivity separately, while pressing FN and Caps on the keyboard allows the user to make direct modifications to Rapid Trigger mode from the keyboard.

The LED display also features a G with a crosshair around it, which can be activated by pressing FN and F10, activating Gaming Mode. This disables the Windows key, preventing accidental interruptions. There’s also a capital M inside of a circle on the LED display, and by pressing FN and F9, it takes the keyboard into Macro mode, which allows the recording of macros.

The Razer Huntsman weighs 3.72 pounds and comes in at 16.5 x 7.2 x 2.8 inches. It’s built with Razer’s 2nd generation Analog Optical Switches, which features Rapid Trigger compatibility, a 100-million keystroke lifespan, and customizable actuation force from 0.1 millimeters to 4.0mm. And with its textured doubleshot PBT keycaps, the durable and hefty feel of every press is fitting for its premium price.

Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL software

While a good bit of the software options can be modified through the keyboard itself, the Huntsman V3 Pro TKL uses Razer Synapse if minute changes are needed. The keyboard comes pre-loaded with five profiles, which are Factory Default, Racing, FPS Rapid Trigger, Analog WASD, and High Sensitivity.

These presets can be modified by adding gamepad remappings, keyboard analog options, and changing Windows properties. While gaming mode normally just deactivates the Windows key, the software options can further disable the Menu key, Alt + Tab and Alt + F4. 

In the actuation section, the force can be modified for individual keys (or all keys) from anywhere between 0.1mm to 4.0mm. It even features a bar that goes up and down based on how much force you’re putting on a key. This allows me to see every bit of pressure from 0.1mm to 4.0mm as I hold a key down, and is especially useful for those who need to know what actuation is perfect. And with Rapid Trigger mode, it can be shifted anywhere from 1.0mm to 0.1mm, and can have separate upstroke or downstroke sensitivity.

While my keyboard automatically defaulted to syncing with Wallpaper Engine, you can further modify the lighting through brightness settings, idle timers, and effects in Chroma. 

Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL performance

Razer has explicitly stated that the Huntsman is designed for the competitive scene, and with its modifiable actuation force, resilient keycaps, and highly customizable profiles, it’s clear that it has the specs to fulfill its purpose, but does it feel as good as it sounds?

With a satisfyingly clicky type feel, a hefty sensation between every keystroke, and a comfortable palmrest, the Huntsman is an absolute winner. Typing through this review felt seamless thanks to the leatherette magnetic cushion keeping my wrists elevated. 

And while the keyboard is comfortable and satisfying to use on its default setting, things get pretty confusing beyond this. The FPS Rapid Trigger profile automatically disables caps lock, but pressing FN + Caps Lock still lets the user modify those settings. However, FPS Rapid Trigger mode doesn’t turn on even when pressing Caps Lock again in that mode.

It does showcase a green or red RGB light within the key to showcase if the keypress is registering or not, but it doesn’t register unless Rapid Trigger mode is turned on manually from within Razer Synapse. Otherwise, the on-board actuation force modifier works fine, but keep in mind, it cannot be edited while on factory default settings.

But most exciting is its gamepad remapping and keyboard analog options, both of which utilize the actuation force seen in its keys to mimic a controller joystick’s varying degrees of movement speed, alongside the pressure seen in triggers like LT or RT. I launched Elden Ring to see how the movement would work, but unfortunately, it never did. The joystick being bound to WASD did not register in the game even after rebooting Elden Ring, reconnecting the keyboard, and binding it to a different joystick setup.

I then launched Enshrouded, and while the movement did finally work, with the different increments of actuation allowing for detailed speeds, the game constantly jumping between keyboard and gamepad inputs made it freak out. The only way you could get this to work optimally is to manually rebind the keyboard keys to gamepad inputs and get used to seeing a UI made for gamepad. That’s too much hassle for me, but it might be worthwhile for others.

Bottom line

With the firm, textured feel of its PBT doubleshot keycaps, modifiable actuation force, brushed aluminum alloy base, and comfortable leatherette palmrest, the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL is a premium keyboard that justifies its high price with an excellent user experience and necessary features for the competitive gamer.

While its fancier intricacies can be a bit frustrating to get working through its on-board software settings, they can easily be tweaked to perfection through Razer Synapse. We wouldn’t recommend the average gamer go so far as the spend $219 on this absolute beast, but if you’re a competitive player in need of a top-tier gaming keyboard with rapid trigger modes, customizable actuation, and settings that can even mimic a gamepad controller’s pressure, it will more than deliver what you need. Just be ready for some frustrating troubleshooting periods for many of its best features.

The Alienware Pro Wireless and the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% are two of the top gaming keyboards you can buy in 2024. Which one should you pick, though? They have a lot of similarities, but there are some important differences to know before you make your choice. 

We gave both of these keyboards an Editor’s Choice Award and they can rank as the best gaming keyboards, so either one is sure to impress. Which one comes out on top when you compare all of the pros and cons of the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% and the Alienware Pro Wireless keyboard? 

Alienware Pro Wireless vs Razer BlackWidow V4 75%: Price and specs

The Alienware Pro Wireless keyboard and Razer BlackWidow V4 75% are a tie when it comes to price. Both go for $199.99, although the black version of the BlackWidow V4 is slightly less at $189.99. Both keyboards are available in black or white and both are 75% size, meaning they have the function keys, but not the number pad. 

While both keyboards have the same basic layout, they have slightly different measurements. The BlackWidow V4 has a larger footprint measuring 12.6 x 6.1 x 0.94 inches while the Alienware Pro Wireless measures 12.3 x 5 x 1.6-inches. Both weigh approximately the same at 1.8 pounds. 

Winner: Tie

Alienware Pro Wireless vs Razer BlackWidow V4 75%: Design 

It’s tough to pick a winner in the design category because each of these keyboards has an edge in its own way. There are some design similarities, though. The Alienware Pro Wireless keyboard and Razer BlackWidow V4 75% both feature a premium case with an aluminum top housing. Both also have per-key addressable RGB, although the BlackWidow V4 also has side RGB strips. 

Beyond those basic features, there are some big differences, including a few that give the BlackWidow V4 a slight edge. The BlackWidow V4 includes a magnetic wrist rest and features a volume roller and dedicated media keys. It is also gasket mounted underneath, which gives it a bit of flex that makes typing more comfortable and improves sound quality. 

Of course, those features won’t matter to everyone, but they do give the BlackWidow V4 a bit more value for the same price as the Alienware Pro Wireless. It also has media keys along its right edge, but the offset placement and unique layout of the media keys and volume roller on the BlackWidow V4 made them easier to use without taking my eyes away from my screen.

So, the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% has a slight edge in the design category due to its wealth of features and standard key spacing, although both keyboards have excellent build quality.

Winner: Razer BlackWidow V4 75%

Alienware Pro Wireless vs Razer BlackWidow V4 75%: Keys 

The keys are one area where these two keyboards differ the most. The Alienware Pro Wireless has linear switches while the BlackWidow V4 has tactile switches. Both are hot swappable and even include a switch puller, so you can easily change them if you like. 

I enjoyed using both switches and both have great sound quality, especially when compared with most other gaming keyboards on the market. I can confidently say that these are two of the best sounding gaming keyboards out there. Each keyboard has a unique sound, though. 

The linear switches on the Alienware Pro Wireless give it a slightly deeper, more muted sound. The tactile switches on the BlackWidow V4 are crunchier, although nowhere near the noise level of a clicky switch. In fact, the keys on the BlackWidow V4 sound slightly quieter than the switches on the Alienware Pro Wireless.

This could be partly because the BlackWidow V4 has a pre-installed tape mod under the PCB, which adds some extra padding to improve sound quality and reduce echo. The gasket-mounted structure of the BlackWidow V4 also helps give its keys a more defined sound.

Ultimately, this category is up to personal preference. If you like the sound and feel of linear switches, you’ll love the Alienware Pro Wireless. If you prefer the sound and feel of tactile switches, you’ll love the Razer BlackWidow V4. Since both are hot swappable, this category is flexible enough that it shouldn’t be a deal breaker.

Winner: Tie

Alienware Pro Wireless vs Razer BlackWidow V4 75%: Performance

I tested the Alienware Pro Wireless and the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% in the same variety of games, ranging from esports titles to casual RPGs. Both performed great, but I did notice a few important distinctions. 

The switches do make a difference in games. When it comes to typing, going for linear or tactile switches is purely up to personal preference. In fast-paced gameplay, though, the linear switches did feel smoother, snappier and more responsive. When I was playing games like “Halo Infinite” or “Warhammer 40,000: Darktide” where I wanted the fastest keystrokes possible, I often reached for the Alienware Pro Wireless first. 

That’s not to say the BlackWidow V4’s switches register slower, but they do feel slower. They have a higher actuation force at 50g compared to the 40g actuation force on the Alienware Pro Wireless. So, you have to press a bit harder on Razer’s tactile switches. 

That’s not a huge difference on paper, but in high-level gameplay it could impact your performance. So, the Alienware Pro Wireless has an edge in this category. 

Winner: Alienware Pro Wireless 

Alienware Pro Wireless vs Razer BlackWidow V4 75%: Connectivity 

If you prefer wireless keyboards, the Alienware Pro Wireless has a big advantage. You can connect it via a 2.4 GHz USB dongle or Bluetooth 5.1. Alternatively, you can use the included USB-C charging cable to use it wired. In comparison, the BlackWidow V4 is only wired. 

I didn’t notice any input lag when comparing the Alienware Pro Wireless to the BlackWidow V4. The Alienware Pro Wireless has a 1000 Hz polling rate which is the same as the default polling rate on the BlackWidow V4. So, you’ll get similar speeds with either one. 

The only real drawback to the Alienware Pro Wireless is that you need to recharge it and the RGB drains a lot of battery power. It’s nice to have the option to use it wirelessly, though. You can always use it wired like the BlackWidow V4 if your battery gets low. 

Winner: Alienware Pro Wireless 

Alienware Pro Wireless vs Razer BlackWidow V4 75%: Software 

The Alienware Pro Wireless keyboard and the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% are both customizable through either Alienware Command Center or Razer Synapse. Both of these apps could be better and include the same features, so this category is a tie. 

Between the two, I tend to prefer Razer Synapse. It ran smoother in my testing while, in comparison, Alienware Command Center crashed on me a couple of times. However, this isn’t a deal breaker since both apps get the job done. If RGB customization is something you care about, you can do that with either brand’s app. 

Winner: Tie 

 Overall winner: Draw 

Should you buy the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% or the Alienware Pro Wireless keyboard? Both are fantastic gaming keyboards that delivered top-notch performance in my testing. Each is better than the other in different ways, though, so which one you should buy comes down to the type of games you play. 

For most people, the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% is the best choice since it is the most well-rounded option due to its wealth of features. Its performance will be more than enough to impress the average gamer, especially if you want one keyboard to use for everything. 

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a wireless gaming keyboard, the Alienware Pro Wireless is the one to beat. It’s also a top choice if you mainly play esports titles or similarly fast-paced games where you need the most responsive switches possible. 

Be sure to check out our full reviews for the Alienware Pro Wireless and the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% for a closer look at each one. 

The Razer BlackWidow V4 75% is a complete refresh of Razer’s core line of gaming keyboards and delivers fantastic performance in a sleek package. It upgrades nearly every feature of previous BlackWidow models and adds some brand new features like dedicated media keys and hot swappable switches. 

After putting this keyboard to the test, I can confidently say that it’s one of the best gaming keyboards out there. The form factor, sound quality, typing experience and features make it a great all-around keyboard that’s definitely worth its price tag. 

See my in-depth breakdown below to find out if the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% is right for you.

Razer BlackWidow V4 75% price and configurations

The Razer BlackWidow V4 75% comes in at $199 for white or $189 for black. I tested the white model, which is a bright polar-white tone. 

The BlackWidow V4 is wired with a detachable USB-C cable. It has a max 8,000Hz polling rate and per-key addressable RGB, both of which are customizable in Razer Synapse. It ships with Razer’s third generation tactile orange switches which feature a 50-gram actuation force and 3.5-millimeter of key travel. 

The BlackWidow V4 comes in two different sizes, 75% and full-size. The main difference is that the 75% size doesn’t have the number pad, so it’s not as wide. I tested the 75% model, which measures 12.6 x 6.1 x 0.94 inches and weighs in at 1.8 pounds. I’ve found this size is the sweet spot for gaming keyboards – compact enough to angle on your desk while keeping the function row.

Razer BlackWidow V4 75% design

The BlackWidow V4 keeps the classic case shape of the BlackWidow line-up, but gives it a sleek update. It features an aluminum top case, addressable side RGB strips, and two-level height adjustment kick stands. The BlackWidow V4 feels light but sturdy, especially since the cable is braided instead of rubber. 

One feature I really love about the design of the BlackWidow V4 is the dedicated media keys in the top-right corner. You get a textured volume roller, a pause/play button and a mute button. The RGB ring around the mute button automatically changes to red when pressed. I found these dedicated keys super convenient in games, especially the volume roller. 

The BlackWidow V4 also has some cool features under the hood. It’s gasket mounted, which is rare to see on a gaming keyboard. Gasket mounted keyboards have better sound quality than stiffer plate-mounted keyboards and feature a tad of flex that makes them very comfortable for typing.

Razer also gave the BlackWidow V4 a pre-installed tape mod, which is typically found on only custom enthusiast keyboards. It improves sound quality by padding the underside of the PCB. As a result, the sound quality on this keyboard is phenomenal.

Finally, the BlackWidow V4 includes a matching plush wrist rest that’s lightly textured on top and quite comfy. I used it only in certain games, but it’s definitely nice to see it included, especially at this price point. 

Razer BlackWidow V4 75% keys

The keycaps on the BlackWidow V4 are doubleshot ABS rather than PBT (PBT plastic is typically more durable than ABS), but they don’t feel cheap or slippery. They have a bit of texture to them that is definitely more noticeable than older Razer keyboards I’ve used. So, if that was a feature you didn’t like on your BlackWidow V3 (speaking from experience), you’ll probably prefer these upgraded keycaps. 

The BlackWidow V4 comes with Razer’s gen-3 tactile orange switches. I’ve used these switches before, but I noticed they definitely sound better on the BlackWidow V4. They come factory lubricated, which is really nice to see on a gaming keyboard. They have a 50g actuation force and 3.5mm of key travel with a tactile bump about halfway down. 

If tactile switches aren’t your favorite, you can easily change them since the BlackWidow V4 is hot swappable. It’s compatible with standard Cherry-style 3 and 5-prong switches. If you are used to Razer’s clicky green or linear yellow switches from a previous gaming keyboard, Razer sells packs of those you can swap in on this keyboard. 

The stabilizers on the BlackWidow V4 sound great, especially the space bar. They’re all pre-lubricated and none of them sound scratchy, hollow or metallic. The keys are all standard sizes, too, so you can fully replace the keycaps if you want.

Razer BlackWidow V4 75% performance

I loved gaming on the BlackWidow V4. I tested it in a range of games, from “Halo Infinite” and “Warhammer 40,000: Darktide” to more casual titles like “Starfield” and “Valheim.” The BlackWidow V4 felt great across the board. 

The stock orange switches have consistent, snappy performance and never fail to register a keystroke, even in fast-paced games. All of the keys are very responsive, even more so if you increase the polling rate through Razer Synapse. 

I often prefer linear switches, but Razer’s tactile orange switches are comfortable for both gaming and typing. The 50g actuation force isn’t too heavy and the tactile bump is satisfying without being disruptive. My hands never got cramped while typing for hours at a time or during long game sessions. 

The switches sound fantastic, too, so this is a great all-around keyboard for gaming as well as work or school. It’s not too loud, either, so you don’t have to worry about disturbing neighbors in the office or at home. 

The media keys were really helpful. It’s convenient to adjust my volume without reaching up to my headphones or opening the volume scroller in my toolbar, especially in full screen games and apps. 

The pause/play and quick mute buttons were also nice to have, but more useful during everyday tasks, like pausing my music without changing tabs. If you want to use those buttons for something else, you can customize the keybindings through Razer Synapse. 

Razer BlackWidow V4 75% connectivity

The BlackWidow V4 is wired with a detachable USB-C cable. The notch for the cable header might make it incompatible with some third-party USB-C cables, but you can swap it out for a different one if you want since it’s detachable at both ends. 

The wired connection was stable and reliable and I never had an issue during my testing. It is preset at a 1,000Hz polling rate, but you can customize that to go down to 125Hz or up to 8,000Hz. To do so, select the BlackWidow V4 in Razer Synapse, go to the keyboard tab and select “customize.”

Razer BlackWidow V4 75% software

You can customize the BlackWidow V4’s performance and RGB lighting through Razer Synapse. If you’re new to Razer, it should download the first time you plug in the keyboard or you can download the latest version directly from Razer’s website. 

Razer Synapse has all the features you would want for controlling your keyboard on the software side, but it can be difficult to navigate, especially for new users. Even as someone who is familiar with Synapse and Chroma Studio, I still get frustrated sometimes while trying to assign lighting profiles to games or change between profiles. 

That said, it is fairly easy to create new RGB lighting effects in Chroma Studio. There are pre-made quick effects like spectrum cycling or ripple. You can also make your own with fully customizable colors. Overall, Razer Synapse gets the job done but it could be easier to navigate. 

Bottom line

The Razer BlackWidow V4 75% is easily one of the best gaming keyboards you can buy right now. The sound quality on it is among the best I’ve ever heard on a gaming keyboard and the typing experience is phenomenal. In gameplay, it’s responsive and reliable with snappy keystrokes and a customizable polling rate. The RGB and case design both look great, as well, especially with the dedicated media keys. 

Overall, the BlackWidow V4 is a stellar update to Razer’s core line of gaming keyboards, perfect for everything from typing to fast-paced gaming.

Gaming mice are designed with varying purposes, and depending on what you spend most of your time playing, you should invest in what suits those needs. If you’re helplessly addicted to “World of Warcraft,” mice designed for MMOs with a dozen side buttons can make performing macros and quickly using abilities easy as pie. 

Lovers of first-person shooters might prefer the lightest thing possible. If you have diverse interests, a mouse with adjustable weights would be perfect. And if you happen to be left-handed, or simply want a smaller mouse to accommodate your hand size, products exist out there for you.

As for me, I’ve experienced intermittent addictions towards “osu!” since 2014, a fast, yet precise rhythm game where the player moves their mouse cursor and clicks circles to a beat. Within that 10-year span, and after testing several different mice, I’ve kept a mental note of the exceedingly specific collection of features needed to best suit my aggressive circle-clicking gameplay.

I believe my search is finally over, and I’ve finally found my new favorite gaming mouse. I made a similar statement back in 2021 about the SteelSeries Rival 5, thanks to its exceptional design and ergonomic grip. But after two and a half years, it’s finally time to meet the new champion: Alienware’s Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse is the best of the best, and here’s why.

Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse is near-perfect 

The Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse is not cheap, coming in at $149.99 on Alienware’s website, but it is worth it for anyone with similar needs to mine. Beyond obvious qualities like a comfortable grip, smooth feet for effortless gliding, and premium features like a high polling rate (up to 26,000) and DPI (4Khz wireless, 8Khz wired), my wishlist for the perfect “osu!” gaming mouse has only grown over the years.

It needs to be wireless to avoid any unnecessary weight and discomfort, especially if it gets caught on something during a song. It must have a smooth right base with no protrusions — for the sake of my pinkie. Its primary and secondary clicks need to be designed with frequent actuation in mind — “osu!” songs can get overwhelming, and if a mouse’s click feedback prevents me from pressing as fast as I need to, I can’t use it. Finally, it needs to be light enough to accommodate gaming with as little effort and friction as possible.

I’ve found mice that hit most of these criteria in the past, but it wasn’t until now that something has got a perfect score. The Alienware Pro’s most bewildering quality is that it weighs 58 grams, yet doesn’t utilize the honeycomb design (where several holes exist atop the exterior of a mouse shell), nor is it a mini-mouse. How the company has even managed that is a feat of engineering in and of itself, but it’s hard to put into words how frictionless it feels, practically disappearing in hand while knee-deep in an “osu!” song.

Not to be an absolute “The Lord of the Rings” nerd, but the Alienware Pro is effectively Mithril armor in the gaming mouse world. Its lightness exceeds all reason, yet it’s the highest quality out there.

But gaming for hours on end with a smooth, frictionless mouse is worth far less if the fatigue sets in elsewhere. For many gaming mice I’ve used, my pinkie rests exactly on a protrusion at the right base, creating a painful indent on my finger when playing “osu!” for more than an hour. I’ve tested mice that address this issue in the past, but the completely smooth and rounded right base is another reason why the Alienware Pro is excellent.

I must admit, my method of playing “osu!” is a tad uncommon among frequent players. Whereas most press their keyboard keys to the music, I still use left and right click. This puts additional strain on my right hand, but I’ve played for far too long in this way to switch now. As a result, it’s absolutely vital that a mouse’s primary and secondary clicks feel perfect. 

Alienware utilizes magnetic force keyplates and optical switches to create clicks that you can actually feel, alongside providing a consistent bounciness that lets me press both in quick succession without being slowed by poor design.

And just as a little cherry on top, the Alienware Pro is wireless. I simply turned the wireless mode on, plugged my 2.4 GHz dongle into a USB-C slot on my computer, and it worked nearly immediately.

Bottom line 

Through a combination of effortless use, practically nonexistent friction, an exceptionally light design, and gloriously tactile, clicky feedback, the Alienware Pro is my favorite gaming mouse thus far. It perfectly suits my needs with its smooth, painless design, ideal for long gaming sessions, only adding fuel to the fire for my potential return to “osu!” addiction.

If you’re in a similar position and need a gaming mouse with precision as a priority, allowing you to flick headshots with incredible accuracy and little to no pushback, I could not recommend the Alienware Pro more. While its $149.99 price point is undeniably steep, it is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about competitive gaming.

Alienware’s Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard delivers stellar performance in a premium package that will impress casual and competitive gamers alike. It’s one of the first two devices in Alienware’s new line-up of peripherals, alongside the ultra-light Alienware Pro Wireless Mouse. 

Alienware’s design team spent over a year working closely with esports pros to develop both devices from the ground up. After putting this keyboard to the test, I can safely say all that development time paid off and should earn it a spot among our best gaming keyboards, but read on to see if it’s the best choice for you. 

Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard price and configurations

The Pro Wireless comes in at $199.99 in either Dark Side of the Moon (black) or Lunar Light (white). I tested the Lunar Light model, which is a cool-toned gray-white. 

The Pro Wireless has custom linear switches featuring a 40g actuation force and 3.2mm of key travel. It has a few connectivity options including a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle, Bluetooth 5.1, or USB-C wired. It has a 1.1KHz polling rate when connected wired or with the dongle.

Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard design

The build quality of the Pro Wireless is sleek and durable. Everything feels very sturdy, from the case to the keycaps. The top housing of the case is made of aircraft-grade aluminum, which adds to the premium feel of the whole keyboard. It’s fairly heavy, but that gives it a lot of stability on your desk, especially with the help of a rubber strip underneath. 

This is a 75% size keyboard, so it ditches the number pad, but keeps the function row at the top. It’s also a compact 75%, meaning the arrow keys aren’t offset. This size and form factor are the sweet spot for a lot of games since you keep the function keys without the keyboard taking up too much space on your desk. 

If you don’t have a massive desk you’ll appreciate that 75% size. The Alienware Pro comes in at 12.3 x 5 x 1.6-inches and 1.8 pounds, which is quite a bit smaller than many of the full size battle stations in the gaming keyboard world. You can angle it however you want without it interfering in your mouse space. 

Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard keys

The switches on the Pro Wireless are custom linears, similar to a Cherry MX Red. They have a 40g actuation force, which gives them a smooth, light feel for both typing and gaming. If you ever want or need to replace them, the Pro Wireless is hot-swappable and compatible with Cherry-style 3 and 5-prong switches. 

Alienware’s switches all feature self-lubricating POM, meaning they won’t lose their smooth performance over time. The top housing of each switch is transparent with a small lens on the north edge which gives the RGB a sleek, cohesive look free of hotspots. The RGB is addressable per-key through Alienware Command Center. 

The sound quality of this keyboard is superb. It has two layers of sound-dampening silicone, which eliminates that hollow, metallic sound you get on a lot of gaming keyboards. The stabilizers are also smooth with a nice deep tone, free of rattling or scratchiness. 

On top you get lightly-textured double-shot PBT keycaps which are always nice to see on a gaming keyboard. These are very nice keycaps, but if you want to change them, you’re going to be a bit limited. The bottom row has non-standard key spacing, so standard-size keycap sets aren’t compatible with all keys. 

Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard performance

I tested the Pro Wireless in a range of games, but where it really shined was in fast-paced, skill-based games like FPS titles. That isn’t surprising considering Alienware specifically designed this keyboard for esports and competitive gaming. 

The linear switches are smooth and snappy and never failed to register a keystroke during my testing. The 40g actuation force was also just right. 

It’s light enough that your hands won’t be cramping in long game sessions, but it also gives the keys just enough resistance that you’re not going to accidentally actuate one. The switches are also nice for typing so you can use this for work or school as well as gaming. 

The 75% size of the Pro Wireless also makes it easy to angle it however you want on your desk without interfering with your mouse space. The weight and rubber strip under the front edge of the keyboard keeps it stable enough that I never found myself accidentally sliding it around during games. 

The wireless connection is seamless as well. I never experienced any lagging or delay, even when comparing the Pro Wireless to wired gaming keyboards. Overall, its performance was very responsive and stable. 

Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard connectivity and battery life

 As its name suggests, the Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard is designed for wireless use with either a 2.4GHz USB-C dongle or Bluetooth 5.1. You can even swap between up to three different Bluetooth-connected devices using a button on the back of the keyboard. That’s also where the USB-C dongle’s built-in storage is. 

According to Alienware, when connected via the 2.4GHz dongle, the battery can last up to 798 hours with the RGB turned off or 72 hours with RGB at 50% brightness. With RGB turned all the way up, it goes down to about half of that. So, if you were using this keyboard all day with RGB at full, you would probably need to charge it at least once a week. 

If you’re someone who doesn’t like charging your gear often, the battery life on the Pro Wireless could be an issue. Turning the RGB brightness down or completely off helps a lot, but you’re going to want it turned on if you’re playing in a low-light environment, which is ideal for a lot of games. Of course, you can always use it wired with the included USB-C cable. 

It does help that the Pro Wireless will give you pop-up notifications on your PC when battery life is getting low. It would have been convenient to have a little built-in screen or LED strip to display your battery percentage, but that would have made this a larger keyboard.

Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard software

You can customize the lighting and performance of the Pro Wireless through Alienware Command Center. If you don’t already have it installed, it should download automatically the first time you connect the keyboard or you can download the latest version from the Dell website. 

Alienware Command Center isn’t the best keyboard software I’ve ever used, but it’s not the worst either. RGB customization is pretty straightforward. You can choose from a few different modes like static or ripple. A color wheel allows you to select specific colors for each key, so you’re not limited to a default set. 

You can also customize the keybindings and performance profiles for the Pro Wireless. One I recommend taking a look at is the battery saver mode. You can set this up to automatically reduce RGB brightness when the keyboard’s battery starts getting low.

Bottom line

The Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard is a top-tier option that’s easy to recommend as one of the best gaming keyboards. If you’re looking for a responsive, compact, premium gaming keyboard, this one should be at the top of your list, especially if you play a lot of esports titles. 

It’s one of the best-sounding gaming keyboards out there but also gives you room to customize with hot-swappable switches. Battery life could be better, but the performance and build quality definitely live up to the Pro Wireless’s $199.99 price tag.  

Alienware has crafted quality gaming peripherals in the past, but the company has finally invested in a suite of hardware designed by and for competitive gamers. While that may seem alienating (no pun intended), the Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse is phenomenal for anyone who needs precision — especially in first-person shooters.

It might sound like I’m wildly overselling the Alienware Pro, but when deep in the rush through the gothic halls of “Warhammer 40,000: Darktide” or clicking circles to my favorite songs in “osu!”, it practically disappears in my palm. It’s exceptionally light, glides across a mousepad with effortless smoothness, and features satisfying, tactile feedback with every click. It's an easy contender for best gaming mouse, and for more details on whether it’s right for you, keep reading. 

Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse price and specs

The Alienware Pro is notably pricey at $149.99 on Alienware’s website, and while we tested the white Lunar Light model, there’s also a Dark Side of the Moon hue available. It features 8,000Hz wired polling with 4,000Hz wireless polling through 2.4Ghz, up to 120 hours of battery life at 1,000Hz (32 hours at 4KHz), 26,000 DPI, and a click lifespan of up to 70 million. 

It’s built with Alienware’s “exclusive” magnetic-force keyplates and also uses optical switches. However, it does require Windows 10 and up to function, so this isn’t worth the investment if you’re still on Windows 8 and prior.

Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse design 

The Alienware Pro is appropriately advertised as a lightweight mouse designed to suit the needs of competitive players, regardless of whether that involves a first-person shooter like “Valorant” or a team-based MOBA like “DotA 2.” But just calling it “lightweight” feels like an understatement.

Alienware claims it’s lighter than 60 grams and measures 4.9 x 2.5 x 1.6 inches, but I wasn’t satisfied with an estimate, so I took matters into my own hands and weighed it at 58 grams (2.04 ounces). This makes it the lightest gaming mouse we’ve ever tested, which is especially impressive considering it isn’t a mini-mouse, nor does it utilize a honeycomb design like the HyperX Pulsefire Haste.

The week before I began testing the Alienware Pro, a Dell representative casually told me he felt as if the mouse was an extension of his arm. I initially found the notion amusing and assumed it was nothing more than a marketing slogan. But after testing it myself, I completely understand. Its lightness and near frictionless PTFE feet make it feel like it vanishes in hand, gliding across my mousepad with minimal effort. 

With its magnetic-force keyplates and optical switches, the tactile sensation of every click is resounding and satisfying. Other design features include an LED indicator that reveals its remaining battery life and status, 2.4Ghz dongle storage at the bottom, and a USB-C port for wired use and charging at the top.

Best of all, the Alienware Pro addresses a design issue I’ve had with most of the mice I’ve tested. Its shell wraps around the top and sides of the mouse in its entirety, leaving a minimal gap between it and my desk. When gaming with my natural grip, my pinkie rests at the bottom right of the shell. On most mice, this hits a protrusion where the base and the top of the shell connect, and long gaming sessions cause my pinkie to dent inwards. It hurts and is normally something I just have to deal with, but the issue isn’t remotely present on the Alienware Pro.

While the Alienware Pro is near perfect, it does miss the mark in the placement of its DPI button, as it’s located beneath the mouse. While it is configurable, most people won’t go to the effort of turning their mouse over to press it. This is especially unfortunate as Alienware claims the mouse has a six-button configuration, but that’s slightly generous, as the sixth button is the DPI button.

I do wish that the sixth configurable button was easily accessible, as seen on my previous favorite gaming mouse, the SteelSeries Rival 5. It is similarly set to swap between DPI presets by default, but once I found a comfortable speed, I bound it to an instant mute microphone button on Discord. Perhaps the inclusion of this button would unnecessarily increase its weight, but it would make the Alienware Pro my perfect gaming mouse. 

Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse software 

Similar to any good gaming peripheral, software is vital. And with the Alienware Command Center, everything you need is in one convenient spot. Few companies understand the vitality of aesthetics in software as Alienware does, as launching the application immediately reveals images of my monitor, keyboard, and mouse aligned with how one would set up a gaming station.

By hovering your mouse over an item, it reveals an estimate of remaining battery life. Settings include software updates, enhancing pointer precision through acceleration, swapping primary and secondary buttons (which is convenient for left-handed individuals), and modifying the five DPI presets from 100 to 26,000 and their associated polling rate from 125Hz to 4,000Hz wireless, or up to 8,000Hz wired.

Users can also modify lift-off distance and set a battery-saver threshold to reduce the polling rate when a certain percentage of battery life is remaining. Through the macro creator, users can set any button to perform a keystroke, record a macro, paste a text block, or launch a program.

Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse performance 

Testing a mouse as bewilderingly lithe and buttery smooth as this had me shaking with excitement, and it was clear I had to put it through the same gauntlet I toss every mouse into. “Osu!,” a rhythm game where players aim their mouse pointer at circles and click to the rhythm, is something I’ve been playing since 2014. And from that point onwards, I’ve been on the lookout for the ultimate gaming mouse. While the Rival 5 got pretty close, the Alienware Pro earned the championship title as the smoothest I’ve ever used while immersed deep in the music.

This is where that aforementioned sensation of barely feeling the mouse present in my palm was most noticeable. I don’t have to fight against friction or put significant effort into moving it across my desk, and my performance was impeccable as I jumped between a dozen different songs.

I immediately felt comfortable with the mouse and was able to do well on tracks I hadn’t played in a long time. Since “osu!” is a game where the player has a tightened grip for long periods, and there’s very little opportunity to readjust, this was how mice with a protruding base would so often indent my pinkie. Once again, the Alienware Pro doesn’t have this issue whatsoever.

I then jumped into “Warhammer 40,000: Darktide,” a co-op first-person shooter in the vein of “Left 4 Dead” where players cleave and blast their way through swarms of enemies. While I didn’t quite feel the mouse vanish as I did in “osu!,” I was still comfortable during long sessions, alongside being swift in my flickshots to eliminate snipers and gunners before they eviscerated my team.

Building structures and sniping giants with my longbow was equally effortless in “Valheim.” While the game doesn’t require much precision in aim, I still love how little force I needed to exert to play even a casual survival game.

Bottom line 

There’s no doubt in my mind that the Alienware Pro is the most impressive gaming mouse I’ve reviewed. In fact, it’s the best I’ve used, period. Lightness of this caliber is often accompanied by a honeycomb design or smaller mouse size, but Alienware has brought this thing down to 58 grams without needing either. Alongside its additive-free PTFE feet that allow it to glide across my mousepad with virtually no friction, the mouse disappears in hand while immersed in a game.

With a seamless 2.4Ghz wireless connection, up to 4Khz (8Khz wired) polling rate, DPI from 100 to 26,000, and useful software for assigning new bindings and recording macros, the mouse is packed with premium features to enhance personalization. While I wish its sixth configurable button wasn’t tucked underneath the base, the Alienware Pro is a phenomenal gaming mouse for any competitive gamer.

Need a gaming keyboard to go with it, the Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard launched alongside it and is an impressive piece of hardware in its own right if you want the matched set.

The Akko PC Tokyo (MOD007B) is the latest competitive gaming keyboard from Akko in its Tokyo aesthetic line, inspired by Japan with its illustrated Mt. Fuji, traditional Japanese shrines, and kanji naming locations around Tokyo. But the inclusion of hiragana in its keycaps also makes it a great choice for those bilingual in English and Japanese.

While that was the reason I desired this model over its blue Santorini sibling, alongside being a big fan of the color pink in general, I didn’t expect the MOD007B to feel this phenomenal. This is an excellent choice for competitive gamers who need customizable actuation force, per-key RGB lighting and a wonderful softness upon every keystroke.

Akko PC Tokyo (MOD007B) price and configuration 

There are two designs of the MOD007B keyboard, with my review model being the white-and-pink Tokyo style, but there’s also the white-and-blue Santorini look. Otherwise, you can choose between Akko Cream Yellow or Kaiih Sakura Pink Magnetic Switches. The product is $149.99 on the Akko website regardless of configuration, but it’s currently $134 on Amazon. 

Akko PC Tokyo (MOD007B) design 

The Akko Tokyo’s pink-and-white keycaps, hot pink text, and sky blue hiragana and kanji yield a stunning blend of my favorite colors with a practical mix of English and Japanese to make the most of my language learning. 

Not only does the keyboard match the pastel pink walls and white ceiling of my office, but the little details are endearing. Many of its Fn keys are replaced with the names of iconic sections of Tokyo, like the Ginza and Asakusa districts. And the space bar’s illustration of a bold blue Mt. Fuji with sakura trees and pink fields against soft clouds contrast gorgeously.

The keyboard also comes with additional caps featuring illustrations depicting a traditional Japanese shrine, bonsai tree, Shiba Inu, Tokyo Metro and more. It brings the keyboard to life, and while it’s a tad chaotic to have images where basic keys like Ctrl and Alt should be, I thrive in this chaos and use all of the keycaps provided.

As mentioned before, the Akko Tokyo is useful for Japanese learners looking to adapt to a keyboard style where the necessary hiragana are visible on the keycaps themselves. At the top left of each keycap is the English letter, but on the bottom right, hiragana is visible. 

Traditionally, you’d type in Japanese by writing out its pronunciation in English text, so you would have to type “ta” to get “た.” If your Windows settings are correct, you can just press the Q key to get “ta,” and the same applies for every other key. And yes, Akko made sure Kana Input on Windows corresponds correctly to the location of each key, so no additional work is required. 

The Akko Tokyo is smooth on all four sides, and beyond the USB-C at the back, it has no additional buttons or ports. Everything you can interact with sits on the top face of the keyboard, yet there isn’t a single button there either. It’s sleek and gorgeous, making it an ideal purchase for veterans who know what they’re doing, but the average consumer might need a manual to-hand during their first time.

For example, the built-in power supply is turned off by default. You have to remove the Caps Lock keycap and toggle a switch hidden beneath to its downwards position to turn it on, and this is the only way to utilize wireless mode through either Bluetooth or 2.4G. I spent more than an hour trying to troubleshoot why wireless mode didn’t work on the keyboard before figuring out this was the issue.

Expecting the user to remove their keycaps to use a keyboard wirelessly is a bit much. Figuring out shortcuts, combination keys, how to update firmware, and just use wireless mode needs a tutorial. While I do love the Akko Tokyo, be prepared to learn a few things before using it.

The Akko Tokyo is surprisingly hefty for a keyboard of its size, measuring 14.84 x 8.74 x 2.17 inches and weighing 3.52 pounds. It’s compatible with both Mac and Windows, has on-board memory, per-key RGB backlighting, a 3,600mAh battery, PBT keycaps, Bluetooth 5.0, a Type-C port for wired connections and charging, a 2.4G dongle at a 1000Hz polling rate, and is compatible with any 3-pin mechanical switches.

Akko PC Tokyo (MOD007B) software 

Akko’s greatest weakness is the lack of a dedicated application. Instead, users need to install the company’s driver through its website and then use its browser page to make changes. While the website acts like an app in practice, having to jump onto it every time is a tad impractical. Thankfully, the app itself works fine, as I easily upgraded to the keyboard’s latest firmware. However, it abruptly stopped working after the update.

Once again, I was thrust into panic, but I figured out the issue after a few minutes. Within the “about” section of the webpage, which is where the firmware update rests, a button labeled “Maximum Key Travel Calibration” caught my eye. One of its reasons for use listed if the “keyboard cannot be used,” so I underwent the calibration.

I thought I was saved, but the instructions were unclear. It wanted me to press each button at the bottom in sequence, and claimed that I “do not miss it.” I went through a few rounds of calibration, with each resulting in a possessed keyboard registering inputs on its own. Eventually, I realized it wants the user to press every key on the keyboard from the bottom to the top, in order from left to right. That fixed the issue, but the process could be clearer.

Otherwise, I love that the Akko Tokyo has dedicated combination keys for some of the features you’d find in a keyboard’s software app. You can swap between 20 different RGB lighting effect patterns, change its brightness, shift its animation direction, and modify its speed all with the keys themselves. You can also easily activate Bluetooth, 2.4G and Wired modes.

Key shortcuts include opening up file explorer, checking email, going to your browser homepage, and even a combination that instantly opens your designated music player. Mine was iTunes by default so it quickly popped up, but changing my default music app to VLC revealed it upon use instead. You can also press Fn and the Windows key to lock it.

Akko PC Tokyo (MOD007B) performance 

Designed for use in competitive eSports scenes, and really great for anyone who needs deep customizability in their gaming keyboards, the Akko Tokyo’s blend of additional features against performance is impressive. The gasket mount made jumping between each key as soft as a  cushion while I wrote up this review. And Its hall effect magnetic switches mean there is no physical mechanism to trigger, so it can detect input with even the slightest press of a key.

The default of 2mm makes this a double-edged sword, as that sensitivity is vital for high-intensity games where clicks need fast registration regardless of force. But since pressing it halfway will trigger an input, I’ve accidentally used abilities at inconvenient times while gaming. In Warhammer: Darktide, grazing my spacebar would cause me to abruptly hop into the air and make me miss a headshot. Since movement keys are right next to F, I’d accidentally use my special ability without meaning to. 

Thankfully, this is fully customizable through the Akko website. You can modify the actuation force anywhere from 0.1mm to 4mm, and at 3mm of force, I felt comfortable, and it’s great if you need to increase or decrease force depending on the game. The same page also has a Dynamic Keystrokes feature which makes full use of the hall effect sensors. Three settings are available on the website: Toggle, MT, and DKS.

With Toggle, you can turn any key into an on/off switch for a certain input. MT offers two different inputs on one key based on whether you press the key or hold it. The time needed for a hold action to go through can be set anywhere from 10ms to 1000ms. And finally, the base DKS feature can bind four inputs to a single key based on the force used. You can freely customize the actuation needed to perform these different inputs through the same aforementioned website.

Bottom line 

The Akko Tokyo (MOD007B) is a near-perfect keyboard. Its multi-purpose English and Japanese keycaps are excellent for anyone learning either language, and its per-key RGB lighting against a hot pink, sky blue, and snow white color palette has added a wonderful layer of personality to my desk.

The wide functionality of its hall effect sensors brings a new layer of customizability for competitive gamers picky about their actuation force. With its soft gasket mount and magnetic switches, the softness of its aesthetic reflects in its cloud-like typefeel.

But the Akko Tokyo is a bit obtuse to set up, causing me to scramble for more than an hour as I wondered how to utilize wireless mode. Prepare to have a manual in-hand, ready to remove the Caps Lock key just to turn on its onboard power supply. It would also be great if Akko launched a dedicated application rather than using its website to make changes to the keyboard.

Otherwise, the Akko Tokyo is among the best of the best, packed with convenient features, stunning to behold, and great for both competitive gamers and English or Japanese learners.

Cherry make great great keyboards. Doy! Who doesn't know that? The brand's high-performance switches are the backbone of the premium keyboard market. What you might not know is that having acquired Swedish gaming gear gurus XTRFY in 2023 Cherry also make some excellent gaming accessories and peripherals under the all-new Cherry XTRFY gaming brand.

How excellent are we talking? Well, lets take a look at evidence and see for ourselves. Though I promise you, you won't be left disappointed by this latest offering of gaming mice, keyboards, and studio-grade microphones. Let's hop to it!

We're on the scene in Las Vegas to check out the latest tech at this year's CES 2024 showcase. Be sure to tag along on our CES 2024 journey by following Laptop Mag on TikTok, Twitter/X, Instagram, Flipboard, and Facebook for the most up to date hands-on impressions and news coming from the convention floor.

CES 2024: CHERRY XTRFY MX 3.1 gaming keyboard

The MX 3.1 isn't just an aluminum-cased display of design prowess with its angular cutouts and per-key-RGB illuminations, it's also a showcase of Cherry's new next-gen MX2A gold crosspoint precision switches.

It's these switches that ensure the brand's smooth actuation, solid acoustics, and phenomenal longevity with each switch rated for a 100 million keystroke lifespan. It's a key component to the Cherry keyboard experience, and they ooze trademark comfort and precision performance with every compression.

With full N-Key rollover, 100% Anti-Ghosting, and a polling rate of 1000Hz, the MX 3.1 is a fantastic addition to any gaming setup and a dream to use across all purposes when it comes to computing.

The CHERRY XTRFY MX 3.1 will be available for purchase in Q2 2024 for $129.

CES 2024: CHERRY XTRFY M64 & M68 gaming mice

Everybody knows about Cherry's keyboard prowess (at least they should, and if you happen not to know, now you bloody well do), but the brand is also no stranger to precision mice — with its latest offering through the CHERRY XTRFY brand being the M64 Wireless/M64 Pro Wireless ergonomic and M68 Wireless/M68 Pro Wireless ambidextrous gaming mice.

The Pro models of these mice deliver, as the name would expect, pro-level performance with an impressive 8KHz polling rate from their Pixart sensors for incredibly smooth tracking and precision accuracy that captures every subtle movement.

Designed for comfort, these gaming mice feature all of the ergonomic slopes and smoothness to accommodate hands of all alignments and sizes with ultralight weights that allow their PTFE feet to glance around desks with minimal friction.

Cherry's esport-level gaming peripherals are expected to arrive in Q2 2024. The M64 Wireless and M68 Wireless will be available for $99, while the M64 Pro Wireless and M68 Pro Wireless will be available for $139.

CES 2024: CHERRY XTRFY Ngale Microphones

Even I wasn't all that familiar with Cherry's microphone portfolio until recently and with a new lineup of mics on their way tailored to gamers, streamers, and content creators it may be the best time to start paying closer attention to what the brand has to offer.

At the head of the pack is the Ngale X, an XLR/USB hybrid dynamic microphone designed to offer users a studio-grade microphone experience at a non-studio price. On-device controls allow for gain adjustment and muting, and an integrated foam windscreen and pop filter protect your recordings from any unwanted peaks. Better still, it fits that gamer setup vibe perfectly with its adjustable RGB illumination.

Following suit is the Ngale R, a stand-alone USB condenser mic for simple, easy, and effective audio capture. It's RGB-infused retro-inspired design will leave you feeling like a cyberpunk Johnny Carson and its smart noise cancellation and cardioid capsule are ideal for streaming or voiceovers.

The Ngale series will be available for purchase in Q2 2024, with the Ngale X priced at $189 and the Ngale R at $119.

Alienware make some impressive gaming PCs and laptops, and even some decent gaming accessories to boot. However, while the company is known for making pro-level gaming machines, it's taken them long and weary to release its own pro-level peripherals to match — and the wait is finally over.

Announced today at CES 2024, Alienware will be releasing its brand new Pro Wireless Keyboard and Pro Wireless Mouse. Developed in collaboration with over 100 top esports players, this peripheral pairing has been engineered to push performance to meet pro-level demands with comfort and style in tow.

Let's dive in to what makes Alienware's latest accessories stand out.

We're on the scene in Las Vegas to check out the latest tech at this year's CES 2024 showcase. Be sure to tag along on our CES 2024 journey by following Laptop Mag on TikTok, Twitter/X, Instagram, Flipboard, and Facebook for the most up to date hands-on impressions and news coming from the convention floor.

CES 2024: Alienware Pro Wireless Mouse

Delivering a tournament-ready mouse is no easy task, but it's one that Alienware have excelled at with its Pro Mouse — on paper, at least.

The six-button Pro Wireless Mouse pulls no punches with its impressive specs with a polling rate of up to 8KHz when wired and 4Khz while wireless (2.4Ghz) stealing the show. The results of which are ultra-smooth tracking and top-tier responsiveness, essential for accuracy and speed in competitive titles.

It's ergonomic form is great for the palm, and its comfort is further aided by its ultralight weight of just 60 grams — allowing the Pro Wireless Mouse to glide effortlessly on its additive-free PTFE skates.

The Alienware Pro Wireless Mouse will be available to buy in both Lunar Light and Dark Side of the Moon colorways from January 11, 2024 starting at $149.

CES 2024: Alienware Pro Wireless Keyboard

Featuring custom Alienware Linear Mechanical Switches, the Pro Wireless Keyboard is designed for smoothness and speed while delivering the compelling and satisfying thunk of a solid keystroke through 40g of actuation force.

While its 1KHz polling rate pales to that of the Pro Wireless Mouse, it's still a very serviceable response time that remains consistent across each of its three connection options: wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz.

However, Alienware's aluminum-cased keyboard isn't locked down to these custom switches as its hot-swappable design allows you to customize keycaps and switches for a truly personalized experience.

Its per-key RGB is the capstone to its modern gamer aesthetic, and a staggering wireless battery life of up to 798 hours is a flourishing touch on top of a well-rounded product.

The Alienware Pro Wireless Keyboard will be available to buy in both Lunar Light and Dark Side of the Moon colorways from January 11, 2024 starting at $199.

You may not have heard of Lemokey before, but you may be more familiar with its parent company Keychron, well known for making some of the best custom mechanical keyboards on the market. The Lemokey L3 is Keychron's first venture into the gaming space, throwing its hat into the ring against some tough competition from the likes of Razer, SteelSeries, Logitech, and more.

While some of the best gaming keyboards make software customization their priority, Lemokey’s L3 plays to hardware enthusiasts instead — offering a customizable chassis with a fully hot-swappable deck of keycaps and switches.

Lemokey’s inheritance of Keychron’s quality is undeniable from the get-go. But is this hardware-first focus something that detracts from its efforts to break into the gaming scene? Let’s find out.

Lemokey L3 Wireless Keyboard: Price and availability

The Lemokey L3 is available fully assembled or in barebone form from the Lemokey website for $214 or $194 respectively.

The fully assembled L3 comes in three color variants: Carbon Black with red highlight keycaps, Navy Blue with yellow highlight keycaps, and Space Silver with teal highlight keycaps. The Lemokey L3 is also available with a choice of three switches: Gateron Jupiter Reds, Browns, and Bananas.

Lemokey’s L3 Wireless Keyboard isn’t exactly cheap, but it is a considerably premium built product. Not only that, it comes with an array of useful accessories in the box including the following:

• Braided USB-C/USB-C cable (6-foot, 1.8m)
• 2.4GHz wireless dongle
• Wireless dongle extender
• USB-C to USB-A adapter (female-to-female)
• USB-C to USB-A adapter (female-to-male)
• Alternate keycaps (including Option and Command keys for Mac users)
• Tools for customization (including keycap/switch puller, Allen keys, screwdriver, and stabilizers)

With everything on offer, you’re just a palm rest away from the mechanical keyboard VIP treatment here — with the Lemokey L3 giving you considerable bang for your buck in both performance and in-the-box value. 

Lemokey L3 Wireless Keyboard: Design

Keychron fans may feel a sense of déjà vu when looking at the Lemokey L3 because of its striking resemblance to the Keychron Q3 Pro Special Edition — no doubt the inspiration behind Lemokey’s clavier.

The L3 tightens the left flank of that board up, while still flaunting an impressive aluminum rotary encoder dial with four Macro keys in tow. While trimmer than the model it took inspiration from, the L3’s unique, tenkeyless, 91-key layout still results in a notable footprint measuring 15.8 x 5.4 x 1.7 inches in size.

However, the size of the L3 is nothing when compared to its weight. Made top to bottom from CNC machined aluminum, Lemokey’s gaming keyboard weighs about 4.35 pounds when fully assembled — and I have no complaints about this at all. This is great for ensuring there’ll be no accidental travel and offers great comfort in knowing that the L3 can take a beating and live to tell the tale.

Not only that, it’s the kind of weight that screams premium at the top of its lungs and just wrapping your dirty mitts around this thing feels like you’ve absconded with something from a vault at Fort Knox.

The overall design of the L3 can best be described as NASA punk. There’s something uniquely space-age, sci-fi, and retro about the L3 all at once, with its exposed screw heads, grills, cross-reinforced design elements, and overall boxy aesthetic. Paired with its south-facing, per-key RGB back-lighting, the Lemokey L3 is a show-stealer, and its cool aluminum frame and sharp, brutalist edges are a joy to touch.

Lemokey L3 Wireless Keyboard: Connectivity and battery life

The Lemo Key L3 features three methods of connection: by cable (USB-C), 2.4GHz wireless (with the supplied dongle), and Bluetooth 5.1.

There’s a speedy 1000Hz polling rate available for wired and 2.4GHz wireless connections (in comparison to the Bluetooth 90Hz offering), ensuring that you’ll be met with a 1-millisecond response time from key press to key action. This is vital for gaming, especially in competitive titles where you need to ensure your every input is met by near-instantaneous on-screen results.

Connecting by Bluetooth will limit you to a far lower 90Hz polling rate, which is much better suited to productivity tasks, However, on the upside, you can control up to three devices at once while using Bluetooth — rapidly switching back and forth by pressing the Function key + 1/2/3 on the keyboard.

As for battery life, the Lemokey L3 is outfitted with a 4,000 mAh rechargeable Li-polymer battery that takes around 5 hours to reach full charge. In a single charge, the L3 can supply up to 200 hours of uptime with the RGB lighting off, or up to 100 hours with the L3 set to shine.

Lemokey L3 Wireless Keyboard: Software

One of the Lemokey L3’s shortcomings is without a doubt its lack of dedicated software. Instead, Lemokey relies on the QMK/VIA open-source software to handle configurations and customizations.

While QMK/VIA is fairly robust, it’s not the most user-friendly way to apply customizations to your keyboard. It can take a little getting used to at first, with your first hurdle being the software recognizing the Lemokey L3 at all. In order to do so you’ll need to navigate to the Lemokey website and download a JSON file before heading back to VIA and uploading it.

Once you’re into the software, you’ll be able to customize pretty much every aspect of the L3 — including the action of its rotary dial, each of its four Macro keys, and pick from over 20 different lighting effects. However, if you want more direct control over the per-key RGB lighting, you will need to use the standard QMK software which requires a little more familiarity and know-how than the VIA alternative.

While this is great for customizing your typing experience and ensuring everything is set up how you like it, without any dedicated software to lean on, Lemokey’s gaming keyboard lacks access to any game-specific layouts or profiles that can be switched to and from with ease. While the level of customization available with QMK/VIA is fantastic, it can be time-consuming and awkward to dive into.

Lemokey L3 Wireless Keyboard: Performance

So, it looks great, offers deep customization, and can brag about some impressive connectivity options — but how does the Lemokey L3 actually handle in operation? Three words: like a dream.

From the moment I got my hands on the L3 I felt as if I’d died and gone to keyboard heaven. The ultra-smooth Gateron Jupiter Brown switches housed below the double-shot PBT keycaps aren’t my regular Cherry MX Red switch of choice, but I was wowed by the overall feel of them all the same.

Gateron’s switches aren’t all that different spec-wise. The switch’s operating force of 45 grams offers a soft and slow decline of each key with little resistance. And, with a 2-millimeter actuation point, the key doesn't have to travel far to register your inputs. The switches bottom out at a total travel distance of just 4mm, with each press ending in a satisfying click as the keycap strikes the plate below.

Once the force of each press is expelled, you feel that operating force return, gently pushing your digit upwards and preparing it to strike at the next keycapped character on your kill list before springing back into position with a heavenly clack. If you can’t already tell, I quite like mechanical keyboards.

I’ve never been one for YouTube videos of people whispering wet-lipped nothingness into the ears of a microphone eerily shaped like a decapitated human head, but if there was ever common ground to share with those ASMR weirdos, this sound would be it.

Even the soft, tactile 'thunk' of the rotary dial is strangely pleasing, to the point I find it hard not to fidget with it out of mindlessness at times. Every key press is a dream, and it leads to a typing experience you need to slap yourself over to ensure you’re actually awake. To put it plainly, the Lemokey L3 is the best thing to happen to fingers since nostrils.

I took the Lemokey L3 to task with a trial by 10FastFingers.com, hoping to challenge my laughably average 68-wpm (Words Per Minute) personal best. That’s taken from the deck of my usual Dell XPS 15 laptop, which in and of itself is a rather comfortable and satisfying typing experience.

However, with the Lemokey L3 at hand, I was instilled with confidence — and ever eager to race between clicks and clacks to produce a symphony that sounded like a bunch of drunk horses staggering down a cobbled street. My results climbed their way into a moderately (for me at least) impressive mid-70s average, though I did score a number of errors out of my click-clack excitement.

Those errors wouldn’t have come from the L3, though, as its N-Key rollover protection can effortlessly detect the registration of multiple keys at once without hindrance. I’m simply over-excitable, and the Lemokey L3 is simply that darn fun to use.

Lemokey's L3 ensures that fun remains when you dive into gaming, remaining comfortable and responsive even over longer stretches. I guided myself through gunfights around Night City in Cyberpunk 2077, Blunderbuss'd my way through the local wildlife around Edgewater in the Outer Worlds, and took Agent 47 on a business trip to Miami in Hitman 3 — blessed in every location by the L3's excellent handling.

In more competitive games like Counter Strike or BattleBit Remastered the L3's 1000Hz polling rate kept my reaction times sharp and made rapid shifts in movement a breeze. Lemokey's first venture into gaming settled into things like it had decades of experience, and was helping me earn it by the bucketload as I sidestepped a hail of bullets and swept through the battlefield with ease.

Bottom line

As first impressions go, Lemokey have outdone themselves. They took the familiar design of the Keychron Q3 Pro Special Edition and made it their own, delivering a clavier with space-station vibes and an out-of-this-world typing experience to match.

There’s so much good to say about the L3 wireless keyboard that it almost seems like a drag to point out where its shortcomings are. However, its lack of any dedicated software could hold it back from stealing the hearts of gamers en masse.

That being said, its premium construction, NASA Punk flair, and exceptional typing experience hold up incredibly well. If this isn’t one of the best gaming keyboards available today, then it’s easily one of the best keyboards available. Period. 

Deals lovers have once again found themselves overwhelmed within the season of great discounts. It's the day after October Prime Day and if you're still on the lookout for Corsair deals in particular, there are still a few available.

So if you found yourself sitting on the sidelines during Amazon's Big Deal Days event, worry not. You still have a chance to snag some of the best deals we saw ruing the sale. 

Shop the best Corsair deals you can still get below. For more early deals on our favorite mobile teach, gaming gear and more, check out our Black Friday deals list. 

Best Corsair Prime Day deals

Cherry, the manufacturers behind the highly coveted Cherry MX switches found in premium mechanical keyboards and low-profile laptop decks the world over, have announced an all-new switch: The MX2A.

Don’t know what a keyboard switch is, or why it’s important? Keyboard switches sit below the keycaps of your keyboard and control the feel, sound, and responsiveness of each keystroke. For over 40 years, Cherry MX switches have been the gold standard, with varying models affording a range of tactile feedback that’s unparalleled by most, if not all, others.

The MX2A is Cherry’s new standard in keyboard switches delivering a smoother and more satisfying typing experience by improving actuation, acoustics, feel, and durability – now offering a guaranteed lifespan of over 100 million actuations.

Cherry MX2A

Cherry MX2A: What’s changed? 

The MX2A isn’t a refresh of Cherry’s popular switches, it’s a total ground-up redesign that sees the cylindrical core replaced by a barrel design for near-contactless linear movement that reduces spring deformation and scratching. Not only does this dramatically improve the life span of each switch, but it also ensures that your millionth tap and clack feels just as crisp and responsive as your first.

This is further aided by a diamond polished sliding surf and a unique spring center with a ribbed crown to ensure smoothness of movement and promote consistency with each keystroke.

What hasn’t changed is Cherry’s full catalog of uniquely tailored, color-coded configurations which will also make their way into the new format. The new switches remain equally as compatible with RGB and mechanical setups as ever, ready to slot home in your keyboard of choice and deliver unparalleled performance.

When will we see Cherry MX2A switches?

From today, Cherry MX2A switches are available for all of Cherry’s manufacturing partners to make use of. However, you can get your first feel for the brand’s new switch in full when the fully-customizable Cherry XTRFY K5V2 gaming keyboard launches later this year.

Can’t wait until then? Cherry’s MX2A switches will soon be added to the Custom Keyboard Builder found at the CherryXTRFY website. 

Outlook

Cherry’s mechanical switches have been the top-tier option when it comes to keyboard actuation for decades. The new MX2A switch seeks to improve in almost every aspect, promising to deliver the most finely tuned, responsive, and rewarding typing experience to date.

If there was ever going to be a switch that could dethrone the near-perfect performance of the MX, it was only ever going to come from Cherry themselves. Now it’s here, it can only be a matter of time before the German manufacturer’s latest switch goes from heir to the throne, to industry figurehead.

For news, rumors, and updates on all things tech, follow Laptop Mag on Twitter, Facebook, and Flipboard for the latest word as it arrives. 

Starfield, Bethesda’s open-universe time sink of which many gamers long to pour hours of their lives into, is just around the corner. While some of the best gaming laptops will let you enjoy every clunky, bug-ridden frame of the action, a good set of peripherals is essential for really getting immersed in things.

And so, I present to you the Lemokey L3: a gaming keyboard so well matched for the upcoming space adventure that it might as well be ripped out of the center console of the Frontier.

Lemokey L3: The NASA-punk peripheral you never knew you needed

Lemokey, a sub-brand of Keychron – a keyboard manufacturer with an impressive history of delivering fantastic mechanical claviers like the Keychron K2, is tasked with transferring its parent brand’s keyboard prowess to the gaming world. Its first attempt of which will be the Lemokey L3: a hot-swappable, mechanical wireless keyboard built from the ground up with customization and performance in mind.

The Lemokey L3’s machined, polished, anodized, and sandblasted 6063 aluminum chassis is a mechanical dreamboat, bursting with the kind of NASA-punk vibes that will no doubt snare the eyes of Starfield devotees from a cluster away.

Its tenkeyless design offers a compact block with all the keys you need for gaming while bundling four programmable macro keys and an aluminum rotary encoder to boot. Just imagine spinning that dial to charge up your engines as you blast away the last of a squad of Crimson Fleet pirates who dared attempt to separate you from your sandwich hoard, before firing up your Grav Drive and plunging back into the cosmic expanse.

The Lemokey L3’s 91-keys are fully customizable, allowing you to switch out both the pre-fitted Cherry double-shot PBT keycaps and exclusive Gateron Jupiter switches at will for your favorite 3pin/5pin alternatives. All of which will be illuminated by stunning south-facing RGB back-lighting, with over 20 lighting configurations. Factor in a 1000Hz polling rate with N-Key Rollover anti-ghosting and you have a gaming keyboard that shines equally as bright in performance as design.

The Lemokey L3 is currently available to pre-order on Kickstarter, with the barebone model starting at $189, and the fully assembled keyboard available for $209. 

Prime Day is coming to a close soon, so don't miss out on some of these wild Prime Day laptop deals. And if you need gaming peripherals, now is your time. We have a collection of some of the best gaming mice and keyboards around.

If you want a quality gaming keyboard or gaming mouse that's as stylish as they are useful, look no further than the products below.

We have reviewed nearly every keyboard and mouse on this list, and there's a reason they found themselves on our best gaming keyboard and best gaming mouse pages.

Whether it's a gaming keyboard or gaming mouse. the one you buy this year is completely dependent on your needs as well as the games that you play. 

Do you play MOBA games? Then you probably need macros and double-digit programmable keys on your mouse. Do you play FPS games? Then you'll want a mouse and keyboard with the fastest response time. Or are you just looking for something comfortable? Stick to your dominant-handed mice and keyboards with wrist rests.

Prime Day isn't going to last forever. Hop on these deals while you still can!

The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro arrives two years after its predessor with a number of new controls that should not only appeal to gamers, but make it a strong option for content creators as well.

The one trade-off is that the wireless connectivity introduced on the V3 Pro is gone, but given the size and intended use case for this keyboard it doesn't feel like much of a loss other than now having a bradied cable snaking across my desk.

Hardcore gamers are going to be won over by the introduction of eight macro keys (8!) on the V4 Pro, while the new Razer Command Dial working in tandem with the multi-fuction roller give content creators and productivity workers some powerful new tools to play with as well.

The $229 price point remains a hurdle, but follow along to see if it sounds like the right fit for you.

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro price and configuration options 

There are two versions of the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro; both are available starting today for $229. The switches below the keycaps are the only differentiating factor, which are either Razer Green or Razer Yellow.

Razer Green is the traditional option, which is most comparable to Cherry MX Blue with a 1.9mm actuation point, 4mm of key travel and 1.5mm reset point. Razer Yellow is a linear option that is similar to a Cherry MX Speed Silver with a 1.2mm actuation point, 3.5mm of key travel and 1.2mm reset point.

If you're just getting into mechanical keyboards and that sounds like gibberish, here's what it translates to in real world usage. The Razer Green is going to be much louder and overall better suited to general-purpose use with a mix of typing and gaming. Just keep in mind that if you are in a shared space or a small space this keyboard might drive your neighbor (or you if you don't wear headphones) a little nuts. 

The Razer Yellows by comparison are much quieter and geared toward gaming due to that shallower actuation point and instant reset. Some find that these traits lead to too many mistakes when typing, however, I personally prefer the Razer Yellow for both purposes so there aren't hard and fast rules about which to choose.

My review unit features the Razer Yellow switches.

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro Gaming Keyboard design

The basic look of the V4 Pro isn't dramatically changed from the V3 Pro, it's a subtle matte black aluminum alloy top case and textured Doubleshot ABS keycaps. However, that's about where subtly goes out the window as Razer refers to this thing as a "full-blown battlestation" for a reason.

The BlackWidow V4 Pro feels a bit like a greatest hits album for the BlackWidow line, combining elements from the V2, V3, V3 Pro and then a couple of new tracks for the fans. 

Returning from the V2 are five macro keys to the left of the keyboard, something gamers and content creators alike will no doubt appreciate. The multi-function roller and media keys from the V3 are back in the upper-right corner of the keyboard. Finally, the simple volume knob from the V3 Pro gets a tactical upgrade to become the Razer Command Dial situated in the upper-left corner of the keyboard. 

So what's completely new? Did I say there are five macro keys? I meant eight, as there are three additional macro keys on the left-edge of the keyboard. Razer also added underglow lighting for the V4 Pro, which includes the plush leatherette wrist rest that now connects magnetically to the keyboard.

I’ll cover more of the lighting options in the software section, but the Razer Chroma RGB is strong with this one. If the knob, macro keys, and roller didn't give away that this was a gaming keyboard the absolute assault of cascading colors coming from it will do the trick. 

Beyond its underglow lighting upgrade the plush wrist wrest gets a new textured finish that gives it a more premium look. The black on black Razer logo at its center is  barely noticeable until its smooth surface catches the light and sets it off against the textured background. I found it exceedingly comfortable during longer typing or gaming sessions.

On the back of the keyboard are a pair of USB Type-C ports for signal and passthrough and an additional USB Type-A port for passthrough. Razer includes a pair of braided USB Type-A-to-USB Type-C cables in the box. I somewhat expected these to be Type-C-to-Type-C at this point, but gaming laptops are one of the few categories left that should still have you covered with USB Type-A and there's always a docking station if you need more.

The bottom of the keyboard is plastic with eight rubberized rectangles at the edges of the keyboard and another eight on the wrist rest to ensure it holds tight to your desk. The two-stage foldable feet at the top to give you a comfortable angle for typing at either six or nine degrees. On the inside Razer uses PCB foam and bottom case foam to help dampen the sound. While it's still a mechanical keyboard and therefore not whisper quiet, the Razer Yellow's aren't a distraction to me while typing even if I just have ambient music playing on the speakers at my desk.

One of the biggest changes for the V4 Pro from a feature standpoint is the removal of wireless support. I'm sure some will miss it, but given the size and intended use for this keyboard, I think most will be fine with Razer's decision.

The BlackWidow V4 Pro is comparable in size and weight to other robust mechanical gaming keyboards like the Corsair K100 RGB. Coming in at 2.9 pounds without the wrist rest and 3.6 pounds with it, the former matches up exactly with the Corsair. At 18.5 x 5.9 x 0.5-0.9 inches it is slightly smaller overall than the Corsair (18.5 x 6.5 x 1.5-inches), but not massively so. If you are using the wrist rest the BlackWidow bumps up to 18.5 x 8.6 x 0.5-0.9, in case you have a narrow desk..

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro keys

The BlackWidow V4 Pro has a typical 104-key layout at its core, but that's excluding the four media keys, eight macro keys, and the Razer Command Dial is clickable as well. 

The keys are doubleshot ABS keycaps that naturally look flawless at the moment, but the doubleshot process is intended to prevent wear and keep them looking excellent for the long haul. Swapping the keycaps is easy of course if you want a new look or things do start to show wear and the switches are rated for 100 million keystrokes, up from 80 million on the V3 Pro. At this price point the fact that Razer went with ABS over PBT will earn it some complaints, but after years of use on a V3 Pro without seeing any appreciable wear I don't find this to be a serious concern.

As I mentioned earlier, the linear Razer Yellow switches on my review unit are the more gaming-centric option from Razer, but I prefer them for general use as well. To some degree this comes down to the noise factor, I reviewed the BlackWidow V3 with Razer Greens and I simply couldn't handle it given the amount of typing I do in a day. 

This is going to come down to personal preference, but I find the 3.5mm key travel and 1.5mm actuation point with 45g of force delivers a phenomenal typing and gaming experience.

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro performance 

Alright, so what is it like to actually type on the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro? It's very similar to the V4 Pro, I managed to very slightly outperform my typical 10fastfingers.com result of 86-wpm by cruising all the way up to 88-wpm at 98% accuracy. Across 100 tests things would probably land right around at my typical average, so I don't think it magically unlocks improved typing speed, but it was comfortable to type on for long stretches thanks to the 3.5mm of key travel.

I opted for a blend of Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla to test out the battle stations gaming prowess. Not coming from a keyboard with dedicated macros I am still adjusting to all of the various options available to me, but  it's easy to see what a significant advantage it offers. I'm particularly fond of the three macros on the edge of the keyboard as I find it easy to locate them without glancing down. 

As for the keys themselves, the linear Razer Yellow switches are a match made in heaven for gamers. The shallower actuation point makes sure you get an immediate response and thanks to the instant reset even when you need to hammer a key it'll never miss a single click.

Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro software 

The BlackWidow V4 Pro uses Razer’s Synapse app for its advanced features. That includes the ability to remap keys, create macros, and control the RGB lighting.

It can be a little overwhelming when you first fire it up, but Razer is sympathetic to this so it doesn't toggle on all the of the macro and other custom options out of the box, letting you grow with the keyboard. Razer also does an excellent job of making the app intuitive with plenty of visuals to ensure you know exactly what you are changing.

Remapping of keys lets you customize every key other than the Windows key and the right function key. Hypershift takes this even further by basically giving you a second keyboard with the ability to assign different actions for any key when holding down the right function key. Macros can be created in Synapse or you can import existing macros from yourself or others.

Lighting effects are once again potentially incredibly complex or dead simple. There are 11 different quick effects options along with controls for the brightness. Chroma Studio ramps this up considerably with per-key control over lighting and effects. They can response to sound, on-screen activity, or any of the quick effects options. Synapse also can be extended to work with Alexa, Philips Hue, Nanoleaf and more, so your entire workspace can be brought into the RGB party.

If there are different users or use case for the keyboard you can rely on profiles to quickly change the options being applied to the keyboard. Four of these can be stored on the keyboard itself, but you can store far more in Synapse.

Bottom line

Razer referring to the BlackWidow V4 Pro as a battlestation could not be more appropriate. The wealth of new controls available on this keyboard gives you extensive control over your laptop or desktop whether that's for gaming, content creation, or just general productivity usage.

The new underglow lighting adds a new dimension to the already endless RGB options that Razer gives you access to through Synapse. Whether you want something subtle or you want to blast your desk with a full rainbow the BlackWidow V4 Pro has you covered.

I think Razer's updates to the BlackWidow V4 Pro deliver a number of features that gamers will love, in particular all those macros, but the combination of the Razer Command Dial and the multi-function roller as well make it a far more appealing keyboard for content creators and other types of power users. At $229 it's a high entry point, but if you make use of its full feature set it is easily worth the price and has earned a spot on our best gaming keyboards and best keyboards overall.

The best gaming keyboards may offer an array of RGB effects, but this crazy gaming keyboard from Finalmouse adds an actual display underneath its transparent keys — and it's powered by its own CPU and GPU to run video clips, animations, and "interactive skins" powered by Unreal Engine 5.

From Finalmouse, a company known for its collection of gaming mice with unique designs, the Centerpiece Keyboard surprisingly adds another display to your desk setup. Thanks to transparent keycaps and switches, users can outfit the mechanical keyboard with a variety of interactive visuals — from koi fish swimming in and out of frame that swim away when you tap a key to a space rocket launch. One thing's for sure, it won't be easy to find the right key for non-touch typists.

The custom display, which the company calls a "Laminated Displaycircuit Glass Stack (LDGS)," is placed right beneath the keycaps, which offer "custom autolubed linear mechanical" switches codeveloped with Gateron. These have been inspired by Gateron's BlackInk switch, but apparently have faster actuation. Oh, and the sound the keys make are resemble "soft marble raindrops." Finalmouse also states there will be an analog hall effect switch option coming as well.

Interestingly, the gaming keyboard has its own CPU and GPU, meaning it won't take any of your PC's resources while displaying video clips or interactive animations. Speaking of, these "interactive skins" react whenever a user types. For example, explosions happen wherever you press, and there appears to be an interactive game right on the keyboard, too. 

While the number of interactive skins isn't clear, the company will have a skin marketplace via the Finalmouse Steam app: the Freethinker Portal. Users can submit their customized skins for free or monetize them, allowing for a collection of different animations or video clips to display on the keyboard.

The Centerpiece keyboard can hold three skins, and users can switch between them using "dedicated buttons on the side."

As for the keyboard itself, the Finalmouse Centerpiece sports an anodized aluminum case and CNC engravings around the frame, and is connected using a single USB-C port. What's more, there's a "brightness knob" on the right that can turn off the display.

The Finalmouse Centrepiece is expected to arrive in early 2023 and will be priced at $349, according to the reveal video. We're sure to hear a few more details in the lead-up to its launch, including the number of pre-loaded skins that will be available and how the Freethinker Portal app will work. 

Black Friday is almost over, but we're not ready to give up on finding you great deals just yet. In this case, a keyboard that we personally loved is seeing a steep sale, bringing the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT to $45 on Amazon.

Our reviewer claims "it’s an ideal solution for streamers or casual gamers who want to step up from a more traditional keyboard." If this sounds like it appeals to you, consider investing into the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT.

Black Friday has begun and we expect to see tons of excellent holiday deals on gaming laptops. Be sure to bookmark our Black Friday gaming laptop deals hub for the best discounts.

We're not just vouching for the Corsair K55 RGB Pro XT blindly. Our very own Sean Riley reviewed the keyboard, giving it 4 stars out of 5 and citing a number of positives to keep in mind if this gaming accessory interests you. Our reviewer claimed that it "isn't just a keyboard, it's a full-on command center."

He celebrated its bold and vibrant RGB lighting, extensive color customization, comfortable typing experience and attractive design. However, it's not perfect, as he believed its rubberized cable was cumbersome and its plastic construction wasn't sturdy enough. 

These are the things you'll be sacrificing for such an affordable product, so if the package still appeals to you even with those flaws, we highly recommend investing.

Whether you're a fan of FPS titles or the latest cozy game, having one of the best gaming keyboards on your desk is key to a great PC gaming experience.

There are plenty of laptops out there with snappy keyboards, but nothing beats a mechanical gaming keyboard when it comes to performance. This is especially true if you enjoy fast-paced competitive games like esports titles, where the quality of your keyboard can make the difference between winning and losing.

(Of course, the hardware you're gaming on also plays a major role, so remember to check out our guide to the best gaming laptops and the best gaming mice to complete your battlestation.)

I've tested dozens of keyboards, from low-profile travel keyboards to some of the top esports keyboards on the market. So, whether you're looking for the best budget gaming keyboard or a high-performance gaming beast with lightning-fast Hall Effect switches, I've got a great pick to recommend.

This guide covers the top gaming keyboards of the year, hand-selected after hours of testing and hands-on gameplay with titles in a variety of genres.

The Quick List

Best gaming keyboard overall

The Razer BlackWidow V4 75% is the best overall gaming keyboard. It combines top-notch performance with fantastic design and plenty of features.

The BlackWidow V4 75% sounds and feels great for typing and gaming. That's no surprise since Razer went all-out on sound quality upgrades. It's gasket-mounted and even has a pre-installed tape mod, enhancing each keystroke's acoustics. So, the updated Razer Orange tactile switches sound and feel premium right out of the box.

The BlackWidow V4 75% also features a built-in volume roller and media keys, which are convenient for games and everyday use. It delivered excellent performance in all of our tests, including a variety of games and weeks of daily use. The tactile keys are light and fast yet still feature the tactile feedback many gamers love. Whether you're a casual gamer or an esports athlete, it's hard to go wrong with this one.

Read our full review of the Razer BlackWidow V4 75%.

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Best budget gaming keyboard

For just $80, the Epomaker x Aula F75 delivers a fantastic gaming and typing experience. It's a step up from more basic mechanical keyboards, laptop keyboards, or membrane keyboards, but it's still reasonably affordable. Whether you're new to gaming or a price-conscious gamer, the Epomaker x Aula F75 will give you the performance you need to dominate the scoreboard without emptying your wallet.

The Epomaker x Aula F75 has smooth, responsive Leobog Reaper linear switches. They're super comfy to type on but also deliver some serious speed during gaming sessions. You can use the Aula F75 wired or wireless with Bluetooth or the 2.4GHz USB dongle.

There are a couple of minor drawbacks to the Epomaker x Aula F75, but nothing that impacts performance. I would have preferred for this keyboard to come with a braided cable instead of rubber, but the wireless connectivity is good. The RGB backlighting is also not fully addressable, but limited to a dozen or so preset modes. However, those are some pretty reasonable compromises considering the price.

See our full Epomaker x Aula F75 review.

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Best esports gaming keyboard

If you're looking for the best esports keyboard money can buy, the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL should be at the top of your list. It features speedy Hall Effect switches, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. SteelSeries went all out on software features, including a few that could make the difference between winning and losing in competitive gaming.

For example, Protection Mode helps prevent "fat fingering" and accidentally hitting certain keys, like those adjacent to the WASD keys. Similarly, Rapid Tap improves speed and precision by automatically prioritizing the most recent keystroke when two keys are activated at the same time (i.e. holding down a key won't cancel out a later key press). This feature is especially useful in games like PUBG and other shooters where actions like counter-strafing are vital for accurate aim.

Since the Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL uses hall effect switches, you can customize the actuation point in each individual switch. This allows you to optimize specific switches for your playstyle, such as setting a deeper actuation point for action keys and a higher actuation point for movement keys. Plus, you can create custom configuration with different actuation points, Rapid Tap, and Protection Mode settings for different games.

See our full SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL review.

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Best full-size gaming keyboard

More and more new gaming keyboards are TKL or smaller, making full-size gems rare. Luckily, the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro is one of the best gaming keyboards out there and it's full size, making it a top pick for MMO and MOBA players or anyone who needs space for macros. This pricey but premium battle station has all the keys you need, including the number pad.

The BlackWidow V4 Pro comes in a sleek matte black chassis that's equipped with a slew of extra knobs and media keys for controlling volume, playback, and any other functions you want to assign to them. All of the bonus keys, including the knob and textured roller, are addressable through Razer Synapse, adding room for even more macros. Razer Synapse is also where you can customize the BlackWidow V4 Pro's addressable RGB backlighting.

To sweeten the deal even more, the BlackWidow V4 Pro includes a comfy faux leather wrist rest right out of the box. It also has a bit of texture, which is excellent for those who get sweaty palms during gaming sessions.

See our full Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro review.

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Best compact gaming keyboard

Competitive gaming requires a keyboard with fast, consistent switches and a reliable, low-latency connection. The Endgame Gear KB65HE provides both and in a chassis that's small enough to travel with or comfortably fit on any desk.

This compact gaming keyboard puts performance first with incredibly fast Gateron KS-37B Hall Effect switches. These magnetic hall effect switches eliminate the mechanical friction you'd get in normal switches, allowing for faster, smoother keystrokes. You can even customize the actuation point of the switches to fit your unique playstyle.

The 65% size makes the KB65HE easy to angle on your desk to maximize ergonomics for the WASD keys. The full-aluminum case ensures the KB65HE won't move around on your desk during gameplay. It also means this little keyboard is durable enough to handle traveling to gaming competitions, so you can always have your favorite gear with you.

This is easily one of the best gaming keyboards for travel and a top pick for competitive gamers, whether you're a pro or a casual Overwatch player looking to upgrade your gear.

See our full Endgame Gear KB65HE review.

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Best optical gaming keyboard

Razer's Huntsman series is tough to beat when it comes to optical switches. Their latest model, the Huntsman V3 Pro TKL, is a slick, featured-packed powerhouse.

Optical switches aren't for everyone, but they can offer a serious bump in performance, which is the case with the Huntsman V3 Pro TKL. One beneficial feature of the optical switches on this keyboard is the ability to customize the actuation point, much like on a Hall Effect keyboard. The pre-set Rapid Trigger mode is also great for quickly setting the actuation point to maximize keystroke speed.

The Huntsman V3 Pro TKL includes a volume wheel and media buttons to adjust your audio during games easily. As a tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard, it's compact enough to easily angle on your desk while retaining the crucial function and media keys.

Read our full review of the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL.

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How to choose one of the best gaming keyboards

This list includes some of the best gaming keyboards you can buy, but you might still wonder how to choose the right one. Every gamer has a different price, playstyle, and favorite genre, so prioritizing one or two features can help narrow your search.

If you want to spend less than $100 on a new gaming keyboard, go for the Epomaker x Aula F75. There's no shame in trying to save money on gaming gear, and this keyboard will provide top-notch performance similar to much more expensive options. Plus, it comes in some fun color options.

For most gamers with a budget of $100 or more, the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% is the best choice. It strikes the right balance of speed, build quality, and size to fit any playstyle or genre.

However, some gaming genres with unique demands call for specially equipped gaming keyboards. First, if you're a fan of MMOs and MOBAs or other games that need a lot of macro keys, go for the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro. This full-size keyboard is decked out with all the keys and knobs you could want.

Likewise, competitive gamers who like esports titles or other fast-paced games should go for either the SteelSeries Apex Pro Gen 3 TKL, Endgame Gear KB65HE, or the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL. These keyboards use specialty switches that minimize friction to maximize actuation speed. They're all similarly priced, so it comes down to the size and type of switches you prefer (magnetic or optical).

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Why Trust Laptop Mag

Laptop Mag reviews over a hundred laptops yearly, from paperweight ultralights to everyday workhorses to lumbering gaming notebooks that scorch the frame rates of even the hottest AAA games. We're not just experts in the laptop field, as we go one step further by meticulously testing smartphones, tablets, headphones, PC accessories, software, and even the latest in gaming.

We are 100% independent and have decades of experience to help you buy with confidence. Laptop Mag has been testing and reviewing products for three decades and continues to deliver trustworthy reviews you can rely on.

Our experienced team of writers and editors scour the available information about the laptop and put it through its paces to determine which is best for you. But before they start, the testing team subjects each system to a rigorous regimen of synthetic and real-world tests to see how a system handles the type of work and games you’re most likely to throw at it.

Future Publishing, one of the world's largest technology publishers, enforces our editorial trustworthiness. As a company, we have unrivaled experience across every tech sector — and we're the group's specialist for all things mobile tech.

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Logitech has refreshed its “Designed for Mac” lineup with an updated MX Mechanical Mini keyboard and MX Master 3S mouse, which brings some welcome ergonomic revamps for Apple fans. Not only that, but the fantastic Lift ergonomic mouse is getting the Mac treatment, too.

The Mac-only lineup has been a bit of a weird one to contend with — offering virtually identical designs and specs at the same price but limited to just one system. 

So, let’s answer the obvious questions here: what are the differences, and are they worthwhile over the pre-existing universal options?

• Buy the Logitech MX Master 3S for Mac for $99
• Buy the Logitech MX Mechanical Mini for Mac for $149
• Buy the Logitech Lift Ergonomic mouse for Mac for $69
• Buy the Logitech K380 Keyboard for Mac for $39

What are the differences?

Compared to the Logitech MX Mechanical Keyboard and the Logitech MX Master 3S we've reviewed, the differences are incredibly minor. 

The MX mechanical keyboard for Mac still sports the same tactile switches that feel great for long typing and gaming sessions (for when Apple decides to give a damn about gaming). The MX Master 3S for Mac has identical quiet switches, smoother scroll wheels, and an improved 8K DPI sensor.

The alterations are incredibly minor, as the MX Mechanical gets Apple-centric function keys, rather than the universal ones you got on the standard model. Both the keyboard and mouse come in more Mac-matching colors: Pale Gray and Space Gray.

Pricing remains the same too, with the MX Master 3S for Mac costing $99 and the MX Mechanical Mini for Mac setting you back $149. For cheaper Mac-centric peripherals, the Logitech Lift ergonomic mouse also got a revamp for $69, whereas the K380 keyboard will only cost you $39.

Outlook: are they worth it?

To figure this out, you need to ask yourself two questions:

• What is my workload?
• Do I work across different computers?

If you spend 100% of your time on Macs and you’ve got a pretty intense workload like mine (several thousand words typed per day, alongside Photoshop and Final Cut Pro work), then your hands will thank you for the MX Mechanical and MX Master 3S. If you're Mac-only but have casual interactions, stick with the K380 keyboard and Lift ergonomic mouse.

However, if you work across both Mac and Windows systems, I’d look towards the universal options of the MX Master 3S and MX Mechanical. That way, you’re getting the best of both worlds. Plus, you can get the keyboard with a full number pad — great for data entry.

Alienware thrown its hat in the tenkeyless keyboard game with its newly announced Tenkeyless Gaming Keyboard (AW420K), aiming to offer gamers a smaller form factor to maximize desk real estate while still delivering top-of-the-range specs.

The new, small form factor gaming keyboard includes Cherry MX Red switches, full anti-ghosting tech, N-key rollover, double-shot PBT keycaps, and customizable key commands with five profiles to switch between. And that's all wrapped up in a slick, compact design with, of course, RGB lighting.

Is it enough to take a spot in our list of best gaming keyboards? We hope so. In the meantime, check out what the Alienware Tenkeyless Gaming Keyboard (AW420K) has to offer. 

Alienware Tenkeyless Gaming Keyboard (AW420K)

The Alienware Tenkeyless Gaming Keyboard (AW420K) is the gaming brand's first-ever tenkeyless (TKL) gaming keyboard. Price and availability are still up in the air, but we hope to see it sooner rather than later.

With dimensions of 14.5 x 5.8 x 2.2 inches and weighing 1.7 pounds, Alienware aims to make the AW420K the go-to TKL keyboard for gamers on the move and to free up desk real estate. While not as small as 60% keyboards like the HyperX Alloy Origins 60 and Corsair K65 RGB Mini, it adds enough space for a full set of function keys. 

The gaming keyboard is fitted with Cherry MX Red switches (with a 100 million actuation lifecycle), which are a popular option because they're decently sensitive with a 2.0mm actuation point and have that traditional "typing" sound that isn't too overwhelming. Alienware is known for its expertise in bringing Cherry MX switches to its products, including the excellent Alienware m17 R5 (AMD Advantage) gaming laptop.

It also boasts AlienFX per-key RGB lighting with up to 16.8 million colors, and gamers can mess around with the different effects using the Alienware Command Center. What's more, the keyboard looks sleek with its metal top plate with the brand's own "Dark Side of the Moon" color. You can also expect Double-shot PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) keycaps for durability. 

The AW420K's onboard memory can fit up to five profiles, allowing users to customize key commands and macros using fully-programmable keys for the different types of games they play. And just so you don't accidentally press the Windows key during intense multiplayer matches, there's a Windows key disable toggle. 

The keyboard also offers three levels of adjustable heights thanks to "flip-up risers" placed at the bottom. Speaking of, the underside also has an integrated cable routing system for cable management, so you can attach the two-meter, USB-A to USB-C detachable paracord cable where users see fit.

Alienware notes that its AW420K TKL gaming keyboard requires Windows 11 to function, so be sure to download Windows 11. We're excited to see it in action, but while we wait for its release, check out the best keyboard and mouse combos. 

Having the best gaming mouse for your unique playstyle can mean the difference between winning a match or missing a shot. Whether you're gaming on one of our top-rated gaming laptops or a PC setup, the perfect gaming mouse is the key to taking your experience up a notch.

Plenty of laptops out there have snappy, roomy touchpads, but no touchpad can match the speed and precision of a great gaming mouse. We tested dozens of gaming mice to find the cream of the crop for gamers on a tight budget and esports pros. Our top picks include mice for MMO players and left-handed gamers, too, so there's something for everyone.

If you want to level up your gaming setup even more, check out our guide to the best gaming keyboards to find the perfect match for your new mouse.

No matter what type of gaming mouse you're looking for, this guide will jump-start your search with some of the best gaming mice you can buy.

The Quick List

Best gaming mouse overall

If you want the best performance possible, look no further than the Razer Viper V3 Pro. This is the best gaming mouse this year, thanks to its incredible specs and unbeatable performance. Weighing in at just 54 grams, it is one of the lightest gaming mice Laptop has ever tested, which is even more impressive considering it's wireless.

The Viper V3 Pro blew us away in testing thanks to its stellar precision and true 8k wireless polling. Razer's hyperpolling dongle allows the Viper V3 Pro to use 8000 Hz polling without switching to wired mode (although you can use it wired if you want). As a result, gaming with this beast is so fast it's almost like you're using mind control instead of a mouse.

Outside of gaming performance, the Viper V3 Pro feels nice, especially with the included stick-on grip tape. The main buttons have a satisfying click that isn't too loud, and the placement of the side buttons makes it easier to press one without accidentally hitting the other.

Unsurprisingly, esports pros are already adding the Razer Viper V3 Pro to their setups (Valorant champ Zekken already won a title using a prototype of the Viper V3 Pro). You don't need to be a professional to enjoy gaming with the Viper V3 Pro, though, and once you feel how light and fast it is, you'll never want to go back.

See our full Razer Viper V3 Pro review.

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Best budget gaming mouse

Premium gaming mice aren't for everyone, but luckily, there are some fantastic budget picks out there, including the SteelSeries Rival 3. It takes that name to heart, handily rivaling gaming mice that cost three times as much. At $29.99, the SteelSeries Rival 3 is the best budget gaming mouse you can buy.

Whether you're new to gaming or a budget-conscious player, the SteelSeries Rival 3 has all the basic features you need. It's lightweight, has a good CPI range, has all the main buttons, and offers a reliable 1000Hz polling rate. Plus, you can't go wrong with the Rival 3's design. It looks and feels just as premium as many gaming mice that are far more expensive.

Overall, there's a lot to love about the Rival 3. The only significant drawbacks we noticed in our testing were the rubber cable and right-hand-only shape. Unfortunately, if you're a leftie, the Rival 3 won't work for you, but luckily, we did find a great left-handed alternative.

See our full SteelSeries Rival 3 review.

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Best mid-range gaming mouse

Want more performance than a budget mouse can offer without paying over $100 for a premium gaming mouse? The Corsair Sabre RGB Pro is the best mid-range gaming mouse for that sweet spot between budget and high-end mice. At just $60, it's a step up from the SteelSeries Rival 3 but won't break the bank, either.

You get fantastic specs for that sub-$100 price, too. The Sabre RGB Pro has a max 8000Hz polling rate, so you can get the same ultra-low latency that pro-level mice offer. The Sabre RGB Pro is pretty light, weighing in at just 76 grams, which means movement will always be smooth and snappy. The buttons have durable Omron switches inside to ensure good durability. Plus, you get some subtle RGB lighting and a sturdy paracord cable.

The Sabre RGB Pro proves that great mid-range gaming gear is still out there. For less than $100, it delivers fast, reliable performance in a sleek chassis. If you want an affordable gaming mouse that's a step up from the budget category, the Corsair Sabre RGB Pro is the way to go.

See our full Corsair Sabre RGB Pro review.

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Best MMO gaming mouse

No one knows the importance of a good macro setup like an MMO gamer. Access to macro buttons right on your mouse can be a game changer, which is why we love the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite. Thanks to its 17 programmable buttons, this is the best gaming mouse for MMOs.

While it's not winning any awards in the ultralight gaming mouse category, weighing in at a hefty 272 grams, the Scimitar RGB Elite has one feature that's tough to find: a 12-button side keypad. Those extra buttons are perfect for moving your macros to your mouse. The onboard memory also allows you to save up to three separate profiles.

The Scimitar RGB Elite is priced at just $80, so it's a bit more expensive than a budget mouse but still pretty affordable. Plus, its chassis design is very comfy, so it's an excellent mouse for everyday use, even when you're not gaming. Unfortunately, you'll have to use Corsair's iCUE software to set it up, which can be a hassle, but once you get past that, those 12 side buttons will be useful.

See our full Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite review.

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Best left-handed gaming mouse

Razer discontinued Naga Left-Handed Edition several years ago, but left-handed gamers loved it so much that Razer brought it back in 2020 and has kept it in stock ever since. That should tell you everything you need to know about this phenomenal left-handed gaming mouse. It takes all the premium features and performance common on right-handed mice and flips them around to give leftie gamers access to the same quality.

The Naga Left-Handed Edition is perfect for MMOs and MOBAs thanks to its panel of programmable side buttons, much like those on the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite. The Naga Left-Handed Edition has a chassis specifically sculpted for left-handed ergonomics, which means it's much more comfortable for lefties than a cheaper ambidextrous mouse.

While the $100 price tag is a bit high, having a gaming mouse designed for lefties is worth it. The Naga's ergonomics and wealth of buttons can give left-handed gamers a big performance boost, although working through Razer Synapse first can be a tad frustrating.

See our full Razer Naga Left-Handed Edition review.

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How to choose the best gaming mouse for you

Choosing the best gaming mouse for you comes down to price and playstyle. Gamers who mainly play MMOs or MOBAs have different needs than those who mainly play FPS or esports titles.

A good budget mouse usually costs between $25 and $50, while premium gaming mice cost over $100. There are also some great mid-range mice between those two price brackets, priced between $50 and $100.

After price, consider features and specs. Focus on low weight and high polling rate if you mainly play fast-paced games like FPS and esports titles. If you're more of an MMO player, prioritize extra programmable buttons since weight and polling rate aren't as critical in titles like World of Warcraft. Any mouse on this list could work great if you play a mix of games or mainly RPGs, so price should be your top priority.

The best gaming mouse overall, the Razer Viper V3 Pro, is great for a wide range of playstyles but particularly excels at esports titles thanks to its ultra-low weight and high polling rate. If you're an MMO player, the Corsair Scimitar RGB Elite or Razer Naga Left-Handed Edition should be on your list. The Corsair Sabre RGB Pro is an excellent option for gamers who play a mix of genres since it balances price and performance.

How we test

Laptop tests gaming mice on some of the most popular PC titles today. We evaluate how well they perform, both in-game and for everyday productivity tasks. Whether you want something premium or cheap, wired or wireless, large or small, there's a mouse out there that will suit your play style and budget.

We spend a few days with each gaming mouse, play various video games with them, and use them casually to see how the mouse’s various features impact daily life. We ensure that we test the mouse for what it’s explicitly designed for, like FPS or MMO games. We also use the mouse to play a variety of other genres to see if it's good at only one type of game or if it's suitable for more than what it’s marketed toward.

If it’s a wireless mouse, we pay close attention to the precision, accuracy, and delay, if any, present in all gaming mice. However, more often than not, wireless gaming mice are as or more precise than wired mice because they’re loaded with expensive tech. There are also other things to consider, like how efficiently it glides, the number of buttons, and whether it’s comfortable. Most of those aspects are pretty subjective, so a mouse that works for us might not work for your needs, so keep that in mind.

The Logitech G502X Plus is a spiritual successor to the very popular G502 and brings some warmly welcomed tweaks and improvements (on paper).

Namely, updates to the Lightspeed wireless connectivity to deliver 68% faster response times, updated hybrid optical mouse switches for improved speed and reliability, and an extended battery life.

But these do come at a cost, as that already high $149 price tag of the G502 Lightspeed rises even further to a lofty $159. So, the question is simple: is this all worth it? Let’s find out.

Logitech G502X Plus design

Logitech is legendary in its ability to stick to its guns on a particular design for years and years. This is evident in the near-identical ergonomic stylings of the Logitech G502X Plus to the original G502, but that’s no bad thing.

The sculpted curve of the bridge of this mouse welcomes a palm grip over a glaw or fingertip, as your fingers slide into the optimal position for reaching all of the on-board buttons. The premium build feels durable yet lightweight, the rubberized grips around the side have a nice, comfortable texture for your thumb and pinky, and the USB-A wireless sensor has its home behind a door on the bottom of the mouse for improved portability.

I’m a huge fan of the white finish on offer here, but it does also come in black for those who prefer a darker set of peripherals. On both, the subtle RGB glow adds a pop of color that can be synchronized with your setup and doesn’t feel garishly over-the-top like you see in a lot of gaming peripherals.

There are a couple of problems though. The first comes in its dimensions: 5.2 x 3.1 x 1.6 inches. That size is simply too large for smaller hands to really benefit from the ergonomics and finger placement. For example, Corsair’s M65 Ultra RGB Wireless comes in at 4.6 x 3.0 x 1.5 inches. The difference is small, but that slightly reduced length makes it usable across more palm sizes. 

There is no way to customize the weight of this mouse, which may leave some players looking to alter the weight between genres. But as the G502X Plus has shaved some mass off the original at just 3.7 ounces, which when paired with the PTFE feet means you can glide effortlessly across any surface with ease.

The other problem is that the G502X Plus ignores about 10% of the population., I’ll keep campaigning for left-handed versions of mice until I’m blue in the face — especially with Logitech. Southpaws exist and the button placement is specific to right-handed folk.

Logitech G502X Plus features

Right out of the box, the G502X Plus is good to go with plug and play capabilities, but this doesn’t unlock everything you can do with it. 

Plus without fine tuning, the mouse control feels a little sluggish at first, you need to go into Logitech’s G Hub software to increase the sensor speed. While you’re there, you also have full control over button mapping, macros and the aforementioned RGB lighting.

Normally, I’m the kind of guy to use macros on my keyboard, but for more laborious games with many forms of interaction like F1 Manager 2022, offloading some of the more regularly used processes to my mouse breathed new life into the gameplay for me — using the function buttons mounted on the side of the left-click mouse button to open up ERS strategies for each of my drivers.

The scroll wheel on top has two settings: free-flowing and fixed, tactile scrolling. Both are accessible via a mechanical switch just below the wheel and it makes for a brilliantly versatile scrolling experience — whether you need granular control to switch weapons, or the slicker scroll to zoom down a web page and catch it at just the right section.

You can also customize the DPI sensitivity, with options from 100 all the way up to its max of 25,600 and it can be tweaked in tiny increments. Plus, the ability to save DPI presets and access them via the DPI switch button makes it a cinch. Upping your sniper rifle performance on-the-fly by lowering the DPI was a godsend to me, as someone who is usually terrible with a long range rifle.

Logitech G502X Plus performance

We’ve talked a lot about numbers, specs and the feel of using this mouse, but even the most comfortable gaming mice can still suck for gaming. Performance matters and put simply: this is a joy to use across all the genres I threw at it — provided you fit into the particular category of a right-handed person with a larger hand size.

Once you’re acclimated to the design, the speed  from its lightweight construction and PTFE glide pads, the responsiveness of the 25,600K DPI sensor, and the tactile feel of the Lightspeed optical hybrid buttons and scroll wheel makes it great for both gaming and productivity.

For fast twitch gaming with a blend of strategic gameplay in Halo Infinite, the G502X Plus really comes into its own. The programmable buttons and ability to hot switch DPI presets gave me a competitive edge when flipping between the SMG and sniper rifle to take out my enemies, which is always served up with a satisfyingly tactile click. 

And that 68% speed increase in the Lightspeed wireless connection led to completely imperceptible lag. I’m sure that when slowed down, there will be some sort of latency — that’s the pain point of removing the cable. But for what you get, this is a strong performer across even games that require lightning fast reactions.

Bottom line

Love a tidy, cable-free gaming setup but don’t want to see your peak performance suffer because of it? The Logitech G502X Plus is the mouse you’ve been waiting for — packing a fantastically responsive sensor, a ton of well-placed, customizable buttons and virtually lag-free switches into a sleek, ergonomic design.

It won’t be for everyone. The larger size was great for my hands, but anyone with smaller palms may struggle to play at their best with this. Plus, the $159 asking price is a little steep.

But this packs the specs for esports domination and improves the G502 formula in key areas, such as the wireless connection speed and longer battery life, to deliver something that is sure to give you a competitive edge.

The best gaming mouse Prime Day gaming deals are offering the best summer discounts on PC gaming peripherals. Prime Day 2022 shoppers are seeing mind-blowing markdowns on gaming mice from top brands like HyperX, MSI, Razer, Alienware — just to name a few. We're in the second day of this savings free-for-all with the deals showing no sign of stopping anytime soon. 

If you're gaming on a budget, you won't want to miss the incredible summer deals on PC gaming accessories. We're tracking the best Prime Day gaming mouse deals and sharing them here. 

Prime Day 2022 is here, but keep in mind that it ends after July 13. We're tracking the best gaming mice deals from Amazon and other retailers. Be sure to bookmark our Prime Day 2022 hub for the best discounts on mobile tech and more.   

Prime Day gaming mouse deals

• Shop: Amazon Prime Day deals
• Amazon: gaming mouse deals from $8
• Best Buy: gaming mouse deals from $15
• GameStop: gaming mouse deals from $12
• Newegg: gaming mouse deals from $4
• Walmart: gaming mouse deals from $15

Prime Day gaming mouse deals - Razer

Prime Day gaming mouse deals - SteelSeries

Prime Day gaming mouse deals - Corsair

Prime Day gaming mouse deals - Logitech

Razer's Basilisk V3 is an excellent gaming mouse with plenty of useful features. And thanks to Amazon's Prime Day sale, you can get yourself one for dollars off list. 

Currently, Amazon offers the Razer Basilisk V3 Wired Gaming Mouse for just $49 at Amazon. That's $20 off its regular price and just $5 shy of its record low price. 

• Browse: Amazon's entire Prime Day sale

Razer's Basilisk V3 has 2nd Gen optical switches rated for 70 million clicks. For personalized gaming, it has 11 programmable buttons and 11 RGB lighting zones.

In our Razer Basilisk V3 review, we praise its fast performance, comfy design and smart scroll wheel. It's powered by Razer's excellent Synapse software. The Basilisk V3 earned a high rating of 4.5 out of 5-stars and our Editor's Choice award. 

During testing, the Razer Basilisk V3 performed well from blasting werewolves with a shotgun to burning rats with balls of fire. In a nutshell, the Basilisk V3 is a solid choice if you're looking for a feature packed gaming mouse for less.  

Prime Day 2022 just started and we're seeing epic discounts on mobile tech, gaming, and more. Be sure to visit our Prime Day 2022 deals hub for the best summer discounts. 

Razer's DeathAdder V2 gaming mouse just got a massive discount for Prime Day. If you're bargain shopping for PC accessories on a budget, you'll find interest in this deal. 

Right now, you can get the Razer DeathAdder V2 for just $29 at Amazon — its lowest price ever. Typically, it costs $69, so that's $40 off and more than half off. This is one of the best Prime Day gaming mouse deals at Amazon. 

• Browse: Amazon's entire Prime Day sale

As an alternative, you can get the Razer DeathAdder V2 Pro for $55 ($75 off)

You don't have to be a pro gamer to benefit from the Razer DeathAdder V2 gaming mouse. It features a Focus+ 20K DPI optical sensor which auto-calibrates across the mouse mat to reduce cursor drift. This ensures drag-free wireless-like performance whether you're gaming or getting things done.  

We didn't test this mouse, however, Razer DeathAdder V2 reviews at Amazon are quite favorable. Feedback left from customers who purchased the DeathAdder V2 rate it 4.8 out of 5-stars. Some of the highlights among owners are its ergonomic design, customizable buttons, left and right optical switches, and RGB lighting. 

The DeathAdder V2 is a great option if you want a gaming specific or something sturdier and more functional than a traditional mouse. 

For more deals like this, visit our Prime Day 2022 hub for the best discounts on today's must-have tech.   

More Razer Gaming Mouse deals

Razer's Orochi V2 packs solid performance into a sleek, lightweight form factor. Gamer or not, it's one of the best gaming mice to buy. 

For a limited time, you can get the Razer Orochi V2 for $34.99 at Best Buy. Typically, it sells for $69.99, so that's $35 in savings or 50% off. This is one of the lowest prices we've tracked for this wireless mouse. It's one of the best pre Prime Day gaming mouse deals you can get. 

Razer is synonymous with gaming hardware and the Orochi V2 is the best wireless mouse for the money. 

As detailed in our Razer Orochi V2 review, this gaming mouse is sleek, lightweight and delivers great performance. We also like its intuitive software, dual wireless modes and long battery life. We gave the Razer Orochi V2 an overall rating of 4 out of 5-stars. 

In real-world gaming tests, the Orochi V2's accurate sensor performed well. As we've come to expect with any Razer gaming mouse, the Orochi is supported by the Razer Synapse app. For a personalized experience, this software lets you reprogram any one of the mouse's eight inputs and configure the DPI.  

By design, the Razer Orochi V2 is compact and portable. Our review unit's sleek matte white shell was accented by a black Razer logo at the base. At a mere 2.2 ounces and 4.3 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches, it's among the lightest and smallest gaming mice out there.

Razer Orochi V2 is a solid buy whether you want to enhance your gameplay or gift that gamer you know. As an alternative, Best Buy also offers the Razer Basilisk X for $39.99 ($20 off). 

Prime Day 2022 kicks off on July 12 with fantastic deals on gaming gear. Be sure to bookmark our Prime Day 2022 hub for the best summer discounts.

Finding the best budget mouse doesn't have to be a hassle. After all, finding something that won't break the bank (and also isn't complete crap) for your low-cost gaming station is essential. And if you're already sporting one of the best cheap gaming laptops, you might as well keep the savings coming. Unless you are desperate for extra buttons or adjustable weights, you don't need to speed more than $50 to get a great mouse. But if you are looking for something fancy, you can check out our list of the best gaming mice overall.

Otherwise, these best budget mice for gaming should be more than enough to satisfy the average player while saving them loads of money (that can be spent on games!). If you’re building a gaming station, be sure to check out our best gaming keyboards, best gaming monitors and best gaming chairs.

What is the best budget mouse for gaming? 

The best budget mouse for gaming depends on how much you’re willing to spend. The high-end choices in this list cost anywhere from $45-50, while the most affordable option, the SteelSeries Rival 3, is as low as $26. The Rival 3 is a great pick, boasting a comfortable grip, alluring design and an excellent optical sensor.

The Corsair Katar Pro XT is a few dollars more expensive, with an increased CPI reaching 18K. It’s also the lightest mouse in this list and boasts Corsair’s great iCue software. But if you’re willing to spend a little extra, the Corsair Sabre RGB Pro is an excellent pick for $45. This mouse boasts a mind-blowing polling rate at 8,000Hz, meaning it updates the cursor’s position more frequently than almost anything else at this price. And if you want an all-around awesome mouse for $50, the SteelSeries Rival 5 boasts an excellent grip, nine programmable buttons, gorgeous RGB functionality, and a sleek design.

The SteelSeries Rival 3 comes out on top in the gauntlet for best budget gaming mouse due to its effective balance between affordability and quality. For only $26, the Rival 3 boasts a solid modern optical sensor, alluring RGB lighting, and a stylish design. Considering its price tag, you wouldn’t expect this minimalistic design to look and feel so premium.

And thanks to SteelSeries’ robust software, you can freely change the Rival 3’s CPI, angle snapping, acceleration, deceleration, and polling rate. And you can also change the RGB effects on the mouse to suit your tastes. 

Although the mouse is lightweight and satisfying to use thanks to the TrueMove sensor, the cheap rubber cable does a disservice to an otherwise excellent mouse. A braided cable would’ve been a much better alternative, although the current cable doesn’t create any drag.

See our full SteelSeries Rival 3 review

The Corsair Katar Pro XT is another highly affordable gaming mouse, but it comes with a few advantages and disadvantages over the previous entry. It’s the lightest mouse on this list, coming in at a staggering 73 grams. Unfortunately, it was also a bit too small for our reviewer, who claimed the size wasn’t ideal for their grip. And although its minimalistic design is attractive, the scroll wheel is a bit too stiff for comfort.

Otherwise, The Katar Pro XT’s 18K CPI and 1K polling rate is sure to satisfy most gamers on a budget. And with Corsair’s iCue software, you can remap every button (except left-click) and deep-dive into editing the extensive RGB options available. The Katar Pro XT is a great entry-level mouse thanks to excellent performance, precision tracking, low price, and robust software.

See our full Corsair Katar Pro XT review 

The SteelSeries Rival 5 is a personal favorite, but it’s also the most expensive on this list, coming in at exactly $49.99 (it's normally $59.99 but it has been discounted for months). It excels in nearly every category; its grip is firm and comfortable, while the precise tracking and plethora of programmable buttons make it a great pick for gamers seeking a mouse that can do a little bit of everything.

SteelSeries’ GG software is excellent, allowing you to change settings, mess with the extensive RGB functionality, and freely reprogram any of the Rival 5’s nine buttons. I turned my DPI button into an instant-mute toggle for Discord, and even made profiles that change what my buttons do for games like Doom Eternal and World of Warcraft.

However, the mouse isn’t perfect. Since the Corsair Sabre RGB Pro is cheaper than the Rival 5, it’s disappointing that the Rival 5 has only a 1K polling rate. And I can never get used to the up/down button, as it takes slightly longer to push than it would take to just press a button.

See our full SteelSeries Rival 5 review 

How to choose the best budget mouse for gaming 

Choosing the best budget mouse for gaming depends on your preferences. Some people are looking for extra buttons, others need a lightweight build, and a few just want the most affordable option. If you fall under the latter category, we recommend the SteelSeries Rival 3. It’s the most affordable gaming mouse in this list, boasts a modern optical sensor, and a stylish design.

If you need something lightweight and effortless, the Corsair Katar Pro XT weighs only 73 grams. This makes it the lightest mouse on the list; it also boasts a CPI of 18K, an attractive minimalistic design, and benefits from the impressive iCue software. And with the Corsair Sabre RGB Pro, you’ll get your hands on an affordable gaming mouse with a polling rate of 8,000Hz; every other mouse on this list has a polling rate of 1,000Hz, making the Sabre RGB Pro a miracle. And finally, the SteelSeries Rival 5 is a personal favorite. It’s great for those who are looking for an affordable mouse with nine buttons, as each of them is easily programmable through SteelSeries’ great GG software.

The Logitech MX Mechanical keyboard has me nervous that the company has incepted me  and sees what I dream about: the MX Keys but with mechanical switches.

Yes, I dream about keyboards (a strong sign I could use a holiday), but the MX family had one thing missing amongst its chiclet keyboards. Now, the company has finally filled that gap with low profile mechanical switches.

Does the MX Mechanical deliver on a stellar power user pairing of useful functionality, ergonomic greatness, and comprehensive software customization? Let’s find out.

Logitech MX Mechanical price and availability

The MX Mechanical comes in two sizes: the Mini (a tenkeyless board) or the full-size with numeric keypad.

You can pick up the Mini for $149/£149 and the standard MX Mechanical for $169/£169 from Logitech, which is $50 more than the original MX Keys and MX Keys Mini. 

That’s quite a leap in price, so let’s get into whether the typing experience and usability justify that jump.

Logitech MX Mechanical design

At 17.1 x  5.2 x 1 inches and a weight of 1.8 pounds, the MX Mechanical is noticeably bigger and heavier than the chiclet-style MX Keys, but luckily, there is a variant for those with a smaller desk. The MX Mechanical Mini shaves a few inches and a few ounces off for a more portable affair (12.3 x 5.2 x 2 inches, 1.3 pounds).

Beyond that, it’s exactly what you’d expect if Logitech made an MX Keys keyboard with mechanical switches: a sleek, premium chassis with keys that have a nice, ergonomic dish and tactile snap.

The durable-yet-sustainable design is formulated from 45% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic (47% for the mini) and a low carbon aluminum plate across the board, which, alongside the dual color keycaps, gives everything a gorgeous, utilitarian look that I love about MX hardware.

Plus, Logitech has taken the chance to address one of the more frustrating elements of the original MX Keys by adding fold-out feet to adjust the typing angle by a further eight degrees. It’s small, but very impactful to those who have never been a fan of the flatter typing profile.

However, with one fix comes a self-inflicted problem: the choice of function keys is a mixed bag. Instead of the Launchpad (app view) and Mission Control (window view) keys you get on the MX Keys, you instead get an emoji key and a key for muting your mic during Zoom calls.

I get that my workload as a writer is going to be different to others, but Logitech is making a big stink about this being a great keyboard for coders and in this use case, multitasking is important. Relegating that to a two-button keyboard shortcut rather than a labelled function key over using emojis just seems like a weird choice.

But to be clear, each function key can be customized via the keyboard’s software (more on that in just a second), but it’s a confusing choice for what is primarily supposed to be a productivity keyboard, to give you quicker access to emojis.

Logitech MX Mechanical software, lighting and battery life

The MX Mechanical works well out-the-box, with your function keys working as intended. But if you want the full experience, you’re going to need Logi Options+, which gives you the app specific presets across office apps and the likes of Photoshop and Final Cut Pro, battery level indicators, button and key customisation, and much more. Having app-specific shortcuts and the chance to switch that damned emoji key for Mission Control is warmly welcomed.

Even though it has been around for a while now, I’m still impressed by Logitech Flow. This allows users to switch the mouse cursor and keyboard between devices (on different operating systems) by moving it to the edge of one screen and onto the other. Not only that but you can click and drag items between them (or use Ctrl + C + V to do so). This is a godsend for those with more than one device (like a personal computer and a work laptop). 

As for lighting, there are per-key backlights with variable brightness and different effects. You can turn them up to be bright enough for working in challenging lighting conditions (looking at my fellow night owls). 

Logitech promises 15 days of battery life on a full charge with the backlighting turned on, extended to 10 months with the lights turned off.

Logitech MX Mechanical performance

Right, let’s get down to brass tax. Logitech has escaped the membrane limitations of the MX lineage and delivers a lovely mechanical experience, which is available in three switches: a linear “Red” with minimal counter-force, a clicky “Blue” if you love that extra audible feedback and the tactile quiet “Brown.” 

We tested the latter and all of these options provides a 19mm pitch with low-profile keys that are reminiscent of the Logitech G915, one of the best wireless keyboards for gaming, but with the Brown switches, you get a nicer keystroke that is comfortable at full press with less noise — quiet and springy with a nice tactility. 

This translates into a stronger typing.com test result than I achieved with the traditional MX Keys: hitting 91 words-per-minute with 98% accuracy (my average with other keyboards is around the 84-85 wpm mark, and I hit 89 with the MX Keys Mini).

Not only that, but the switch to mechanical makes this a pretty damn good gaming keyboard, too. My journey in finding a great keyboard for both work and play has been a turbulent one: the chiclet keys of the MX Keys are pretty naff for FPS titles and while gaming keyboards might be OK for long form typing, the sometimes embarrassing levels of RGB is a massive turn off. 

So, to get something that looks like a proper grown up keyboard, which is great for getting stuff done and killing Spartans in Halo Infinite, is a joyous achievement.

Bottom line

On the face of it, the MX Mechanical is everything we want it to be, but in reality, it’s not that simple.

Logitech nails the essentials with awesomely tactile switches and long battery life, alongside taking this chance to address problems with the original MX Keys such as adding an adjustable tilt.

However, the price is going to put some people off and the decision to replace the Mission Control function key with an emoji one is a baffling move to MX power users like me.

At the end of the day, it’s a good keyboard that is a joy to type on, but the choice is yours: a chiclet keyboard with slightly better functionality for less, or a mechanical board for more.

The best wireless keyboards are, well, the key to a clean desk.

Whether you’re looking to declutter your wire-laden workspace or go ultra-minimal with a pint-sized peripheral, the best wireless keyboards can transform your setup dramatically.

There’s little difference between wired and wireless options aside from battery life, but the freedom offered by these wireless variants will let you work away from your desktop, interact with a more diverse selection of devices, or even manage multiple systems at once.

Commercially available since the early 2000s, the current wireless keyboard market is rife with potential picks. From traditional full-sized options (which you'll also find on our ranking of the best keyboards) to a more ultra-minimalist 40% model, wireless keyboards come in a variety of shapes and sizes. But there are also factors such as switch type, lighting, and connectivity to consider. In short, picking the right wireless keyboard can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why we at Laptop Mag tapped into our best-reviewed wireless keyboards, and some options from across the web, to help narrow your search.

Our shortlist isn’t specific to any one category and includes keyboards suited to a variety of tasks, so if you’re specifically looking for a keyboard to tackle gaming, check out the wireless options from our selection of the best gaming keyboards. However, if you’re looking for wireless ergonomics or Bluetooth productivity, these are the best wireless keyboards.

What are the best wireless keyboards?

The best wireless keyboard you can currently lay claim to is the Razer Pro Type Ultra. Aside from looking like it fell from heaven, the Pro Type Ultra is one of the best typing experiences available thanks to its soft-touch keycaps and ultra-quiet switches. Throw in a supportive and plush wrist rest, and crisp white backlighting and you have a keyboard that is a joy to type on – day or night.

Some keyboards look phenomenal, but little attention might have been paid to how they affect your joints over prolonged use. Ergonomic keyboards might often lack the style or pizazz of others, but they offer impressive comfort and protection against Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) or joint fatigue. If you’re a heavy typist who is often working for long periods, the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard is a no-brainer thanks to its bizarre yet ultimately comfortable design. It requires an adjustment period, but it sure beats carpal tunnel.

If you’re looking to squeeze the most bang from your buck, the Vissles V84 wireless mechanical keyboard is well worth a look. Its cheaper price tag may cause many to doubt it, but in our review, we found the V84 to be quite the dark horse. From an incredible typing experience to a number of user-friendly accessories, the V84 proved itself to be a fantastic wireless keyboard with an equally impressive price attached to it.

The best wireless keyboard

You’d be forgiven for seeing the name Razer and having a particular picture in mind when it comes to the Pro Type Ultra. However, far from the brand’s usual green and black gamer-centric design ethos is the Razer Pro Type Ultra — a crisp, modern keyboard that offers premium performance, presentation and plush comfort. From its ice-cool white backlighting to an incredible battery life of up to 214 hours, the Razer Pro Type Ultra is the ideal wireless desktop companion.

Outfitted with Razer Yellow mechanical switches and sound dampening foam, the Pro Type Ultra is amazingly quiet. When combined with fingerprint-resistant, soft-touch keycaps you get a luxurious typing experience that is second to none. Further comfort comes from the included cushioned wrist rest, greatly improving ergonomic support as you grind through your day-to-day.

The best wireless gaming keyboard

Prices set expectations, and with the Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro costing over $200, it’s fair to expect top-notch performance and features. You can choose from Razer Green or Yellow mechanical switches on the BlackWidow V3 Pro; both offer a typing experience that is comfortable and tightly responsive. Razer switches are designed from the ground up with gaming in mind, seeking to deliver tournament-grade performance to the fingertips of anyone in front of them.

Dedicated media buttons, a plush leatherette wrist rest, fantastic Razer Chroma per-key-RGB, and a premium build quality all come together to form one of the best wireless gaming keyboards available. However, Razer’s excellent Synapse software allows you to take things a step further by offering in-depth customization for remapping keys, creating macros, and controlling the RGB lighting and power settings.

See our full Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro review as well as our review of its successor, the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro.

The best ergonomic wireless keyboard

At first glance, Microsoft’s Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard looks like a keyboard designed by Salvadore Dali, but its slopes, curves and bends all play a vital part in keeping your hands and wrists supported and comfortable. The Sculpt’s design is derived from advanced ergonomic principles, and while its split-keyboard design and domed shape may seem a little alien at first, getting used to the atypical layout allows you to work without the stress and strain of generic keyboards.

Priced at $129.95, the Sculpt is asking a lot for an otherwise relatively feature-slim wireless keyboard. However, this is a device that goes above and beyond its primary function. It also protects your body from RSIs and muscle strains — allowing you to remain productive and injury-free for longer. For that alone, it may as well be priceless to some.

The best wireless keyboard for consoles

Precision performance is hard to put a price on, but for $249.99 Razer wants to bring quality desktop-level accuracy to console players with their all-in-one keyboard and mouse combo the Razer Turret One. Say goodbye to auto-aim and hello to pixel-perfect aiming with Razer’s responsive, 16,000 DPI wireless mouse and enjoy tactile key presses with dazzling per-key-RGB from Razer’s ergonomic-friendly keyboard.

While originally designed with the Xbox One in mind, the Razer Turret One is just as compatible with Xbox Series X and PS5 — and works brilliantly with popular titles like Call of Duty: Warzone, Minecraft and Fortnite. Use the Razer Turret One as a desktop accessory or for couch-based gaming thanks to a weighty metal base and sturdy retractable mouse pad that balances perfectly in the lap. It may cost a pretty penny, but Razer’s peripheral combo is a fantastic way to up your game without foregoing comfort.

The best 60% wireless keyboard

Ghost is a peripheral manufacturer that specializes in premium-built, high-performance peripherals. It’s not the most well-known manufacturer, but collaborations with high-profile internet figures like PewDiePie and Belle Delphine brought its products to a wider audience of late. The crowning jewel in Ghost’s catalog is the Ghost A1, a top-quality 60% mechanical wireless keyboard that features Cherry MX switches with per-key-RGB lighting, Double Shot PBT keycaps, and a solid aluminum chassis that keeps the smaller-scale keyboard firmly in place — and further adds to a quality feel and look.

This combination of quality materials and components results in an incredible typing experience – in a trim, travel-friendly form. If you’re not tied to the Cherry MX switches and want to save a few bucks, look towards the slightly cheaper HyperX Alloy Origins 60 — a similar offering to the Ghost A1 that makes use of more gaming-focused HyperX switches.

The best 65% wireless keyboard

The ROG Falchion is an awesome wireless keyboard that doesn’t compromise on features to achieve its compact form. In fact, ASUS’ keyboard is one of the best small-scale keyboards available with one feature in particular elevating it above most others: an innovative touch panel allows effortless volume adjustment and an easy-to-see battery indicator. However, it can also be customized for speedy access to shortcuts and macros across any number of apps. Onboard memory allows you to save up to six profiles that make use of this touch bar with the ability to switch between them on the fly with a simple key combination.

The smaller size of the ROG Falchion is perfect for cramped desktops, but when combined with an included cover case, you also have a fantastic travel-friendly device. The polycarbonate hard shell is more than capable of keeping its impressive PBT Doubleshot keycaps and Cherry MX switches safe from bumps and knocks while in transit. Furthermore, you won’t have to pack any charging cables, as the ROG Falchion has a staggering battery life of up to 450 hours.

The best 75% wireless keyboard

Keychron’s K2v2 is the second iteration of its impressive 84-key wireless keyboard. It works wired or wirelessly, making use of Bluetooth 5.1 to pair with up to three devices at once. There are two models available, offering white or per-key-RGB backlighting and a choice of red, brown or blue Gateron G Pro switches. Gateron’s switches offer an excellent typing experience for a range of tasks, from a quiet, linear punch suited to an office environment to a tactile click that feels great for gaming.

Boasting an affordable price tag of just $69 makes the already gorgeous K2v2 an even more attractive option. However, its desirability is truly cemented by its two-stage stand adding up to a 9-degree tilt, alternate keycaps to suit macOS or Windows devices and a sizable 4,000mAh internal battery that keeps it powered up for an impressive 240 hours.

The best tenkeyless wireless keyboard

Logitech makes some of the best computer peripherals you can lay your hands on, including mice, headsets or keyboards. The G915 Lightspeed is one of those keyboards, sporting a tenkeyless design that is ideal for making the most of your workspace. The reduced keyboard width is great for ergonomics, allowing both hands to be closer together when using a mouse and keyboard at the same time. If you’re gaming, this design also frees up plenty of room to maneuver your mouse, while more productivity or professional-focused users may find this additional space great for other peripherals or accessories.

The G915 Lightspeed features advanced low-profile mechanical switches that are tuned for high-performance use. They’re faster and more accurate than traditional switches, and only take up half the height. There are three switches available that range from clicky and tactile to a smooth linear keystroke, with each option including per-key-RGB lighting. The G915 Lightspeed is fairly gamified in its presentation, though not over the top by any means. If you prefer a more subtle (or productivity-focused) keyboard, there’s also the PFU Happy Hacking Professional 2, another fantastic tenkeyless mechanical keyboard.

The best price-to-performance wireless keyboard

A good wireless mechanical keyboard will oftentimes set you back a pretty penny. However, the Vissles V84 manages to bundle an incredible typing experience with a sleek design, great battery life and a decent selection of self-developed switches that make great fits for either typing or gaming. Better still the Vissles V84 is designed to allow full customization of its switches or keys, and even comes with a keycap and switch puller to carry these tasks out. However, that’s not the only thing that comes bundled with the Vissles V84 as you’ll also get additional OS specific keys to suit your preferred platform, magnetic feet that elevate the pitch of the keyboard to improve ergonomics, non-slip mats to ensure stability, and a skin-friendly wrist rest for additional support when in use.

Our review of the Vissles V84 bucked preconceptions about the keyboard's rather low $119 price tag. While it wasn’t perfect, the V84 showcased itself as an incredible keyboard that offers fantastic performance — well above its own pricing.

See our full Vissles V84 wireless mechanical keyboard review.

The best productivity wireless keyboard

If the majority of your time is spent typing on a computer, it’s a smart choice to own a keyboard that caters to that. Logitech products are some of the more ergonomic-friendly accessories you’re likely to come across; the MX Keys is another showcase of the manufacturer’s ability to blend comfort and function into a top-class peripheral. Making use of scissor-style membrane switches, the MX Keys is quiet and springy. While most membrane-based keyboards can struggle with stability, accuracy and responsiveness, the MX Keys performs impressively across the board. What results is a typing experience that is seamless and comfortable, perfect for marathon typing sessions.

While its $100 price tag can feel steep for a keyboard with few additional features, the MX Keys’ is one of the most impressive membrane keyboards available and a treat to your joints if you’re pounding the keys for long hours.

See our full Logitech MX Keys review.