Welcome, fellow gamers, to our deep dive into the exciting world of non-mechanical gaming keyboards. We know that when it comes to choosing your gaming gear, the keyboard is right up there with the GPU and controller, in terms of importance. It’s an extension of your will, a conduit through which your in-game decisions flow. But let’s face it; not everyone is a fan of the clickity-clack noise or the heavy touch of mechanical keyboards. And that’s perfectly okay!
Seeking a gaming keyboard that promises high performance without compromising comfort or budget? You’ve come to the right place. This article delves into an array of superior non-mechanical gaming keyboards, designed to enhance your gaming experience. We’ll explore the unique features they offer, their strengths and weaknesses, and reasons why they could be a compelling alternative to mechanical keyboards.
Roccat Magma membrane keyboard
The Roccat Magma membrane keyboard is a great choice for those looking for quality without breaking the bank. This 104-key keyboard has linear keys that offer a smooth and quiet typing experience, plus it comes with advanced anti-ghosting technology to ensure each key stroke is registered. The ROCCAT AIMO illumination eco-system provides vivid lighting scenarios in 16.8 million colors, allowing you to customize your keyboard’s look and feel. Additionally, this product has an easy-shift[plus] technology which adds a secondary function to compatible keys so you can get more done faster.
This product also comes with a detachable palm rest for adjustable setup and a low-maintenance design with sealed surfaces to keep dust and dirt out. While the build quality of this product is great overall, it’s not ideal for gaming due to pressure and angle issues with its keys reassignment feature lacking. However, if you’re looking for the best non mechanical gaming keyboard option on the market at an affordable price point then the Roccat Magma membrane keyboard should be at the top of your list.
CORSAIR K55 RGB PRO
The Corsair K55 RGB PRO is a great choice for anyone looking for a quality gaming keyboard. It features five-zone dynamic RGB backlighting with six dedicated macro keys, Windows Key lock button, and anti-ghosting with selective key rollover. The tactile bump provides responsive gaming performance, and the textured surface helps prevent slipping during intense gaming sessions. In addition, it comes with a detachable palm rest for added comfort and has dust and spill resistance of IP42 rating.
For gamers who prefer customization, the Corsair K55 RGB PRO is compatible with CORSAIR iCUE software for RGB lighting control, macro programming, and system lighting synchronization as well as Elgato Stream Deck software for instant streaming commands. On top of this, dedicated media and volume keys make controlling audio easier than ever before.
Overall, the Corsair K55 RGB PRO offers an impressive combination of features that make it an ideal non mechanical gaming keyboard option. Its backlit keys are bright enough to use in dark environments while its responsive typing feedback ensures accuracy when playing games or typing up documents. Additionally, its customizable settings will give users plenty of control over their gaming experience making it a great choice for those who want all the bells and whistles without having to invest in expensive mechanical keyboards.
SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard
The SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard is an excellent choice for gamers looking for a non-mechanical gaming keyboard. It features 10-zone RGB illumination, whisper quiet gaming switches with low friction keypresses and 20 million lifespan, dedicated multimedia controls, and a premium magnetic wrist rest for full palm support and comfort. In addition to its great performance features, the Apex 3 also offers water resistance (IP32) and gaming grade anti-ghosting.
The tactile feel of the keys makes typing accurate and comfortable, while the bright RGB lighting around/under the keys adds to the overall aesthetic. The magnetized palm rest secures when moved which improves comfort during long play sessions. That being said, some users may find that the illumination on the keys letter is dim compared to other keyboards and it can be quite loud in the morning due to its non-mechanical design. Also note this keyboard is wired only – there’s no wireless option available.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable non-mechanical gaming keyboard without customizability of RGB, then this is definitely worth considering given its price point – especially since it offers many features usually found in more expensive models such as water resistance and anti-ghosting support.
Razer Cynosa V2
The Razer Cynosa V2 is a great option for those looking for the best gaming keyboard without having to opt for a mechanical one. It has individually backlit keys powered by Razer Chroma RGB, so you can customize it with up to 16.8 million colors and preset customizations for different games. The keyboard also supports up to 80 million clicks, has a spill-resistant design, and comes with a 2 year manufacturer warranty.
Using Razer Hypershift, you can remap all keys and keypress combinations in order to execute complex commands quickly and easily. You can even execute up to ten commands at the same time with the built-in key rollover anti-ghosting feature.
On the downside, some of the keys can be ‘clacky’ or ‘squeeky’ due to their tightness while others may wear off quicker than expected from little use alone. Additionally, the app used to control lighting is occasionally finicky when attempting changes or adjustments between games or settings.
Overall though, this keyboard is still an excellent choice if you’re looking for something that looks good and performs well without having to opt for a mechanical gaming keyboard.
HyperX Alloy Core RGB
The HyperX Alloy Core RGB is a great non-mechanical gaming keyboard that provides the user with plenty of features at an affordable price. This keyboard is quite responsive and quiet, featuring anti-ghosting and key rollover functionality for a smooth gaming experience. It’s also built with a durable solid frame for long lasting durability and stability, as well as spill resistant to protect against accidental spills. The quick access buttons make it easy to adjust brightness, lighting profiles, and enable game mode quickly. In addition to this, the signature light bar and dynamic RGB lighting effects provide six preset LED lighting effects that add character to any gaming setup.
Looking for top-notch performance without compromising on value? The HyperX Alloy Core RGB might just be the keyboard for you. With its lightweight design, you can comfortably game or work for hours on end. And hey, don’t worry about those accidental spills or pesky food crumbs – its membrane design makes clean-up a breeze. Sure, it may not boast the same durability as a mechanical keyboard, but it still promises to deliver impressive performance without leaving your wallet feeling light.
Razer Tartarus v2
The Razer Tartarus v2 is an excellent gaming keyboard for those looking for a non-mechanical alternative. Its high-performance Mecha-Membrane switches provide the tactile feedback of a mechanical key press on a comfortable, rubber dome switch suitable for gaming. It features 32 Mecha-Membrane keys and an 8-way directional thumbpad to allow for more natural controls and ergonomic experience. Furthermore, with Razer Hypershift, you can remap all keys and keypress combinations to execute complex commands.
The Tartarus V2 also has ultimate personalization and gaming immersion with Razer Chroma that connects with popular games, Philips Hue, and gear from 30 plus partners to support 16 million colors on individually backlit keys. Additionally, it has a comfortable wrist rest and d-pad placement as well as being able to customize key actuation, macros, brightness, and RGB lighting.
On the downside though the key placement could use improvement as all the keys feel similar in actuation making it difficult to differentiate between them while using space bar can be hard due to its low profile design. The d-pad also isn’t great when used as joystick but is fine when used as arrow buttons or navigation control. Lastly the drivers are not user friendly at first so make sure you look up some guides before setting up your Tartarus V2! All things considered though this keyboard is perfect if you’re looking for something non mechanical that will still give you great performance in your gaming sessions!
Redragon K509-RGB
The Redragon K509-RGB is a great choice for anyone looking for a non-mechanical gaming keyboard. It features an ergonomic waterproof design with adjustable typing angle and space saving design, plus RGB LED backlighting with 6 different backlight modes, multiple colors, 4 brightness levels, and adjustable breathing speed. The inverted T arrow navigation keys, numeric keypad, home/end/pgup/pgdown/delete/insert grouping and 12 function keys make it easy to use in various scenarios. Furthermore, the lightweight construction and precision engineered keycaps provide a tactile feel with nice travel when pressing keys that produces a soft click sound when typing. The classic clear font for the letters on the keyboard also makes it easier to read during gaming sessions. Unfortunately there are some downsides such as no wrist rest or dedicated media control keys and the springs in the space bar reverberate loudly when pressed. All things considered though this is still an excellent choice for gamers who need a reliable non-mechanical keyboard that won’t let them down during intense sessions.
Discover the Potential of Non-Mechanical Gaming Keyboards
Let’s dive into a world where your keyboard is more than just a tool – it’s your gaming ally. It’s your magic key that opens the door to virtual adventures. Today, we’re shedding light on an unsung hero of the gaming gear landscape – non-mechanical or membrane keyboards. They may not garner as much attention as their mechanical counterparts, but they have their unique benefits that could be just what you’re looking for in a gaming companion.
Understanding Membrane Keyboards
Unlike their mechanical counterparts, membrane keyboards operate with a rubber sheet spanning across pads to register key presses. These underdogs sport some pretty nifty features like programmable keys, RGB lighting, media controls, and macro recording. Not just for casual gamers anymore, these keyboards are making waves in the gaming community.
If your budget hovers under $100/£100, membrane keyboards are definitely worth considering. They pack robust gaming-specific attributes and boast of waterproofing capabilities and a satisfying keypress feel. However, if you’re able to stretch your budget up to $70/£70 – $100/£100, you may find it worthwhile to consider hybrid or entry-level mechanical keyboards for their tactile response and durability perks.
But before you decide, let’s dig deeper into what makes a great membrane keyboard.
Choosing The Best Membrane Keyboard: Key Features
Actuation Type
Membrane keyboards come with different actuation types. Some feature mecha-membrane keys that have a mechanical switch above the membrane for tactile feedback. Others sport butterfly switches which allow for a shorter keypress stroke and lower profile keys. It’s all about finding what feels right under your fingertips.
Wrist Rest
No one likes a case of gamer’s cramp midway through an epic marathon. A soft palm rest can help reduce fatigue during long sessions at the desk. For even more ergonomic comfort, consider layouts that are split or angled.
Splash Resistance
We’ve all had those moments where our excitement (or rage) results in a knocked-over drink on our precious gear. Luckily, many of today’s top membrane keyboards offer water resistance – some even brave dust and spills with dirt-repellent coatings!
The Advantages of Membrane Keyboards
Aside from being generally more affordable than mechanical alternatives, membrane keyboards offer unique benefits such as compact forms and customizability options suitable for various setups. The cream of the crop also deliver tactile feedback and ultra-fast response times comparable to their mechanical counterparts.
Gaming-optimized features like programmable macros, multi-key rollover, a linear feel to keys and good ergonomics make these keyboards worthy contenders on any gamer’s desk.
Typing speed is often subjective – it depends largely on how familiar you are with your keyboard layout but having fast click response and short-stroke keys certainly doesn’t hurt!
Think about those long hours at your computer – whether it’s for an intense gaming session or seemingly endless office work – an ergonomic keyboard could be your saving grace from fatigue or worse yet, carpal tunnel syndrome.
If you’d like more options within budget constraints check out this compilation of Best Budget Gaming Keyboards. For gamers with smaller hands who need something more suited to their needs I recommend this guide on the best gaming keyboards for small hands. And if you’re willing to stretch your budget further without breaking the bank here are some top picks under 150.
That concludes our exploration of non-mechanical gaming keyboards! Whether you enjoy a casual game now and then or dedicate countless hours to mastering virtual worlds, rest assured there’s a keyboard out there designed with your needs in mind. Here’s to advancing your gaming experience!
Conclusion
In wrapping this up, let’s not forget the unsung heroes of the gaming world – non-mechanical keyboards. Not as high-profile as their mechanical buddies, they do pack a punch with some pretty awesome perks. Now, I’m talking affordability and comfort. You’re gaming for hours on end, right? You need something that’s going to be kind to your fingers.
And guess what else? A lot of these keyboards are even water resistant. Who knew? Plus, you can customize them to your heart’s content and program macros like you’re a pro coder. The tactile feedback is also pretty darn close to what mechanical models offer.
So, if you’re a gamer looking to level up your setup without emptying your wallet, consider giving non-mechanical gaming keyboards a shot. They could just be the game changer you need!