Are you looking for an enduring gaming keyboard? We’ve all been there – investing in the latest and greatest gaming keyboard only to find it starts to malfunction after a few months of use. But just how long do gaming keyboards last? In this article, we’ll answer that question and also provide some useful insights on how to extend the lifespan of your gaming keyboard.
What Makes Gaming Keyboards Different Than Regular Keyboards?
Before we dive into how long gaming keyboards last, it’s important to understand what makes them different from regular keyboards. In short, gaming keyboards are designed with gamers in mind. Featuring top-of-the-line features and technologies, these keyboards have much more to offer than a regular keyboard. Mechanical switches provide a more tactile and responsive keyboard that is perfect for first-person shooters. Anti-ghosting technology prevents multiple keystrokes from being registered all at once, reducing lag when playing fast paced games. Programmable keys can also be custom programmed to execute complex macros quickly and easily. All of these features make gaming keyboards not only more durable but also able to last years with proper maintenance.
How Long Do Gaming Keyboards Last?
When it comes to longevity, the lifespan of gaming keyboards varies greatly depending on a few key factors. Quality of construction, type of key switches used, and amount of use per day are all important considerations when determining how long your gaming keyboard can last. Generally speaking, most gamers can expect their gaming keyboard to last anywhere from three to five years with adequate care and maintenance. However, this range can be extended or shortened depending on the above factors.
For example, if you opt for a higher quality model with mechanical keys and use it frequently (e.g., more than 10 hours per day), then you may need to replace your keyboard sooner than three years. Conversely, if you purchase an entry-level model with membrane keys and only use it for an hour or two per day then your keyboard could easily last five years or longer.
Tips For Prolonging The Life Of Your Gaming Keyboard
Now that we know how long most gamers can expect their gaming keyboard to last (three to five years), let’s discuss some tips for prolonging the life of your own gaming keyboard:
1) Clean your keyboard regularly – Dust and dirt can accumulate on your keys over time which can lead to sticky keys or even broken switches. To prevent this from happening be sure to clean your keyboard regularly using compressed air or water (if necessary).
2) Invest in a good quality model – As previously mentioned, higher quality models with mechanical keys tend to last longer than entry-level models with membrane keys so it may be worth investing in a good quality model if you plan on using it frequently or for extended periods of time.
3) Take advantage of warranty coverage – Most gaming keyboards come with some form of warranty coverage so be sure to read through the terms carefully and take advantage if you need repairs or replacements down the line.
4) Avoid liquids around your keyboard – Spills happen but they can be disastrous for your keyboard if not addressed immediately so be sure to keep liquids away from your setup at all times!
5) Don’t leave food around – Food crumbs can get stuck between the keys which can lead to sticky keys and other issues so avoid eating near your setup whenever possible.
6) Use a wrist rest – If you find yourself typing extensively on your gaming keyboard then consider investing in a wrist rest as it can help reduce strain on your wrists over time which leads less wear and tear on the keys themselves.
7) Store properly when not in use – When not in use make sure that you store your keyboard properly by using a dust cover or unplugging it completely (if possible). This will help reduce dust buildup which could cause problems down the line.
Factors That Affect Gaming Keyboard Lifespan
The lifespan of a gaming keyboard depends on a variety of factors including the frequency of use, quality of materials, and storage conditions. Frequent use can wear down the keys quicker, while high-quality materials and proper storage can help extend the life of the keyboard. Additionally, certain gaming keyboards may feature additional features such as backlighting or programmable keys that can also affect their lifespan.
What to Look for When Shopping for a Gaming Keyboard
When shopping for a gaming keyboard, it is important to consider several key factors. Look for gaming keyboards with durable construction and high-quality components that are designed to withstand frequent use. With more advanced gaming keyboards, consider features such as mechanical switches, backlighting, programmable keys, and macros.
Benefits of Investing in a Quality Gaming Keyboard
Investing in a quality gaming keyboard can offer a variety of benefits over cheaper models. High quality keyboards tend to last much longer than lower quality models due to their robust construction and use of more durable components. Additionally, gaming keyboards often feature extra features such as mechanical switches, backlighting options, programmable keys, and macros which can enhance the overall user experience while playing games.
Troubleshooting Tips for Common Gaming Keyboard Problems
If you find yourself encountering problems with your gaming keyboard such as sticky keys or worn out keycaps there are several troubleshooting steps you can take in order to try and resolve the issue. Having sticky keys on a keyboard can be annoying and interfere with the overall user experience. To fix this issue, it is best to turn off the computer, unplug the keyboard, and use a key puller to gently remove the affected keys. Next, moisten a cotton swab with an alcohol-based solution such as isopropyl rubbing alcohol and use it to clean both the keys and plungers. Make sure that all of the parts are completely dry before putting them back together or reconnecting your keyboard.
If you have a keyboard with worn out keycaps, there are two options available – you can either purchase replacement stick-on keys or replace the keys themselves. The stick-on keys are not a permanent fix, but they’re relatively simple and inexpensive to apply. Replacing the actual keys requires more effort and may not be possible with all keyboards, but it will give you a more lasting result.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there is no definitive answer as to how long do gaming keyboards last as lifespan varies depending on several factors such as quality construction, type of key switches used etc., gamers should generally expect their investment to last anywhere from three to five years provided proper care is taken throughout its life cycle. By following the tips outlined above such as cleaning regularly and avoiding liquids around it etc., gamers can ensure that their investment lasts as long as possible!