Video gaming is a pastime that is aided by having the supportive equipment needed to ensure better performance and more enjoyment. Among all the peripherals that we see in gaming, wireless gaming keyboard breaks out as a crucial machine that can completely change the gaming experience. This guide aims to show you everything you need to know one for your gaming station.
Table of Contents:
– What is a wireless gaming keyboard?
– How does a wireless gaming keyboard work?
– Benefits and drawbacks of a wireless gaming keyboard
– How to choose a wireless gaming keyboard
– How to use a wireless gaming keyboard
What is a wireless gaming keyboard?
A wireless gaming keyboard is a special kind of keyboard that is built for gamers who like to keep their gaming set-up tidy without any messy wires while still being able to game with the same level of performance as a wired keyboard. This type of keyboard connects wirelessly to the computer and they often come with gaming optimised features such as programmable keys, mechanical switches for faster and more tactile feedback, and sometimes RGB lighting that the user can configure to their own liking to further make their gaming experience more unique and immersive.
Wireless gaming keyboards are created with various necessities of gamers in mind, regardless whether they are casual or competitive. Their form and function are made to be the same as those featuring wired connectivity, but with the advantages brought in by contemporary wireless technology. Ergonomic designs are often considered by manufacturers to enhance the comfort of prolonged gameplay.
The wireless gaming keyboard as it exists today is a far cry from what it was a decade ago. Because of latency and battery concerns, wireless keyboards were a hard concept for gamers to get a handle on as a viable option. While Bluetooth has long been popular for general computing peripherals, the frequency of communication (2.4 GHz) and individual channel configuration differ from the dedicated transmitters and receivers used in wireless gaming keyboards – proprietary connections that allow manufacturers to modify the band and channel configuration to reduce interference from WiFi and other sources.
How does a wireless gaming keyboard work?
A wireless gaming keyboard can connect to your computer or games console by radio frequency (RF) or Bluetooth. RF keyboards connect via a small USB receiver, which fits into the box of your computer, using a dedicated connection. This is typically less latent and more stable, so it’s better for gaming. Bluetooth on the other hand can connect straight to the device, no dongle needed, but is slightly less reliable, and can have slightly higher latency.
The most important component inside a wireless gaming keyboard is the switches. The most common type of switches found in gaming keyboards are mechanical ones. These switches are famous for their durability, and the tactile feedback they provide with every keypress. Every single key that you see on the keyboard has a switch under it. When a keypress registers, it’s usually at a certain actuation point. Gaming keyboards make use of these actuation points to ensure quick and precise responses.
Recharging a wireless gaming keyboard is another area where technology has advanced. Most wireless gaming keyboards have their power come from rechargeable battery or from replaceable ones. The battery life depends on the model and use, most have a battery life in range from some weeks to several months before one needs to recharge or replace the battery. If RGB lighting is an option it can use battery, but a lot of the keyboards offer customisations, so you can balance your need for aesthetics and battery lifetime.
Benefits and drawbacks of a wireless gaming keyboard
One of the main advantages of the wireless gaming keyboard is that it is convenient in terms of your movements. You could put your keyboard wherever you like – even where your cable wouldn’t reach of course. Besides, you have more space on your gaming desk and you could put it in such a way the keyboard is very convenient for you. Being wireless does not clutter your gaming desk. As a rule, a wireless setup is cooler looking.
However, there are a couple tradeoffs. For one, a wireless gaming keyboard is more expensive because of having the wireless technology included. And while most such models have adequate battery life, having to charge them up or replace batteries may be considered a nuisance, especially compared with the plug-and-play simplicity of the wired keyboard.
Latency is another thing of the past, at least for wireless peripherals. The only real difference between a modern wireless gaming keyboard and its wired equivalent is performance: both are practically indistinguishable, although gamers would still probably choose the latter for peace of mind.
How to choose a wireless gaming keyboard
It is based upon many factors, which require an analysis of each of them to determine whether they contribute to the final decision. What style of game do you play? If you are into fast and competitive, low latency with high responsive is required. The most popular type of keyboard switch is meatalic, for gaming, because of the time to register a key stroke is shorter than membrane and the tactical feedback give you an audible click or not when striking a key but a very slight touch is preferred.
Battery life then, is key. You will want your wireless keyboard to last for a reasonable period without the need to change batteries. Look for a model with long battery life, or at least one which makes battery replacement easy. You’ll also need to consider how you want to connect your wireless keyboard: do you prefer the convenience of Bluetooth, or the reliability of a dedicated RF connection?
Finally, you can add little extras like programmable keys, RGB lighting and build quality into your decision, which boost the price but can improve your gameplay. Figure out which features you need to have and which are not worth it.
How to use a wireless gaming keyboard
It’s easy to use a wireless gaming keyboard, but some advice will get the best performance and extend the useful life of these devices. Make sure the connection is stable. Place the keyboard in the range of its receiver, or Bluetooth connection. Don’t place large metal objects or other devices blocking a clear line between your keyboard and the receiver.
Batteries will inevitably die while you’re mid-game, so keep your keyboard regularly charged or carry some spare batteries with you. And, don’t forget to use any software provided by your keyboard’s manufacturer, as it often allows you to map keys, tweak lighting and other settings.
Finally, take good care of your keyboard, keep it clean and stored in a secure place when not in use to increase its longevity, making it work better for a safer typing experience.
Conclusion
A wireless gaming keyboard offers a combination of performance, convenience and aesthetics that may make your gaming setup better. If you consider how they work, what are their advantages and disadvantages, what determines the good choice and how to use your new keyboard, you will find the perfect keyboard to make your gaming experience better. A good wireless gaming keyboard will give you a certain freedom of movement and the edge you need to win.