Best Mechanical Keyboard for Gaming in Canada 2023 – Test & Comparision

Choosing the right mechanical gaming keyboard can greatly impact your gaming experience. With various options available in Canada, it can be challenging to select the perfect keyboard for your needs. In this article, we will provide an in-depth analysis of five top mechanical gaming keyboards available in Canada. We will discuss their features, pros, cons, and customer reviews to help you make an informed decision.

Best Mechanical Keyboard for Gaming in Canada 2023

1. SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard

Features:

a. Whisper-Quiet Gaming Switches: The SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard features whisper-quiet gaming switches that offer a smooth and linear keypress experience. These switches are designed for over 20 million keypresses, ensuring long-lasting durability.

b. 10-zone RGB illumination: This gaming keyboard features 10-zone RGB illumination with millions of colors and multiple lighting effects. Users can customize the keyboard’s appearance and synchronize the lighting effects with other SteelSeries devices.

c. IP32 water-resistant design: The Apex 3 is designed with an IP32 water resistance rating, protecting the keyboard from accidental spills and making it easy to clean.

d. Dedicated multimedia controls: The keyboard includes dedicated multimedia controls, allowing users to quickly adjust volume, mute, and skip tracks without interrupting their gameplay.

e. Magnetic wrist rest: The SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard comes with a magnetic wrist rest for added comfort during extended gaming sessions.

Pros:

• Quiet gaming switches for a smooth typing experience
• Customizable RGB lighting with 10-zone illumination
• Water-resistant design for added durability and easy cleaning
• Dedicated multimedia controls for convenience
• Comfortable magnetic wrist rest

Cons:

• Not equipped with traditional mechanical switches
• Limited customization options compared to some competitors

Customer Reviews:

• Users have praised the SteelSeries Apex 3 for its quiet and comfortable typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter keyboard.
• Many customers appreciate the customizable RGB lighting and water-resistant design, adding durability and personalization to their gaming setups.
• Some users have mentioned that the Apex 3 may not provide the same level of customization or traditional mechanical feel as other options on the market.

How to select the best mechanical keyboard for gaming

Understanding Mechanical Keyboards

Unlike traditional keyboards that use rubber domes under each key, mechanical keyboards have individual mechanical switches. These switches provide a tactile response and an audible ‘click’ that many users find satisfying. They also tend to have a longer lifespan than rubber dome keyboards.

2. RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Features:

a. 60% compact design: The RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard features a compact 60% design, saving desk space and making it highly portable for on-the-go gaming.

b. Choice of mechanical switches: This keyboard is available with a choice of Gateron or RK mechanical switches, allowing users to select their preferred switch type for a customized typing experience.

c. Wireless and wired connectivity: The RK61 supports both wireless and wired connectivity, providing users with flexibility and reliability during gameplay.

d. RGB backlighting with multiple modes: This gaming keyboard features RGB backlighting with 17 dynamic modes and 8 monochrome modes, offering various customization options for users.

e. Anti-ghosting and N-key rollover: The RK61 includes anti-ghosting technology and N-key rollover, ensuring that each keypress is accurately registered, even during fast-paced gaming.

Pros:

• Compact and portable 60% design
• Choice of mechanical switches for a customized typing experience
• Dual-mode connectivity for flexibility and reliability
• Customizable RGB backlighting with multiple modes
• Anti-ghosting and N-key rollover for accurate keypress registration

Key Factors to Consider

1. Switch Type

Mechanical keyboards come with different switch types, each offering a unique feel and sound. The three main types are linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches have a smooth keystroke, tactile switches have a noticeable bump midway through the press, and clicky switches produce a clicking sound when actuated.

For gaming, many prefer linear switches like Cherry MX Red or Black because they allow for quick key presses. However, the best switch for you depends on your personal preference.

2. Build Quality

A good mechanical keyboard should be sturdy and durable. Look for keyboards with a solid frame – metal or high-quality plastic. The keycaps material also matters; PBT keycaps are generally more durable than ABS keycaps.

3. Key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting

Key rollover (KRO) and anti-ghosting are essential features for gaming. KRO refers to the number of keys that can be pressed simultaneously without ‘dropping’ any presses, while anti-ghosting prevents unintended keys from being registered. Most gaming keyboards offer N-key rollover (NKRO), which means any number of keys can be pressed at the same time.

4. Customization and Programmability

Many mechanical keyboards offer customization options, such as programmable keys or macros. This feature can be useful for gamers who frequently use complex key combinations. Some keyboards also come with software that allows you to customize key functions, lighting effects, and more.

5. Backlighting

Backlit keys can be a valuable feature for gamers, especially for those who play in low-light conditions. Some keyboards offer RGB backlighting with customizable colors and effects, while others have single-color backlighting.

6. Size and Layout

Mechanical keyboards come in various sizes and layouts. Full-sized keyboards have all the standard keys, including a number pad, while tenkeyless (TKL) models omit the number pad. Compact or 60% keyboards further reduce the size by removing function and arrow keys. Choose a size and layout that suits your gaming and desk space needs.

7. Price

Mechanical keyboards can range from relatively inexpensive to very high-end. Determine your budget beforehand and consider what features are most important to you.

Uses of Mechanical Keyboards for Gaming:

1. Faster response times: Mechanical keyboards often have faster response times compared to membrane keyboards. This is due to the mechanical switches registering key presses more quickly, providing an advantage in fast-paced games where every millisecond counts.
2. Tactile feedback: The tactile feedback provided by mechanical switches can improve a gamer’s accuracy and typing speed. This feedback allows gamers to know when a key has been actuated without having to bottom out the key completely, leading to a more efficient and precise gaming experience.
3. Customization options: Mechanical keyboards offer various customization options, including switch types, keycaps, and programmable keys. This allows gamers to tailor their keyboards to suit their specific preferences, whether it be the actuation force, the key travel distance, or the overall aesthetic.
4. Durability: Mechanical keyboards tend to be more durable than membrane keyboards due to their robust construction and high-quality materials. This makes them a suitable investment for gamers who require a reliable and long-lasting keyboard.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

1. What are the different types of mechanical switches?

There are several types of mechanical switches, including Cherry MX, Razer, Romer-G, and Topre. Each switch type has unique characteristics, such as actuation force, tactile feedback, and noise levels. Popular Cherry MX switches include Red, Blue, Brown, and Black, each with varying levels of tactile feedback and actuation force.

2. Are mechanical keyboards noisy?

Mechanical keyboards can be louder than membrane keyboards due to the audible feedback provided by the mechanical switches. However, some switches, such as Cherry MX Silent or O-rings, can help dampen the noise if you prefer a quieter keyboard.

3. Are mechanical keyboards better for gaming than membrane keyboards?

While this ultimately comes down to personal preference, many gamers prefer mechanical keyboards due to their faster response times, tactile feedback, and customization options. However, some gamers may still prefer the feel of a membrane keyboard or find them more affordable.

4. Can I change the keycaps on a mechanical keyboard?

Yes, most mechanical keyboards allow for keycap customization, enabling users to swap out the standard keycaps with custom ones made from different materials, colors, or designs. Keep in mind that the keycap compatibility may depend on the type of mechanical switch used in your keyboard.

5. How do I clean a mechanical keyboard?

To clean a mechanical keyboard, first unplug it from your computer. You can use compressed air or a small brush to remove dust and debris from between the keys. For a more thorough cleaning, carefully remove the keycaps (using a keycap puller if necessary) and clean the switches and keycaps with a gentle solution of water and isopropyl alcohol. Be sure to let everything dry completely before reassembling and reconnecting your keyboard.

Conclusion:

Canadian gamers seeking the best mechanical gaming keyboard have various excellent options to choose from, including the SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard, RK ROYAL KLUDGE RK61 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Redragon K552 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, and Razer Ornata V2 Gaming Keyboard. Each of these keyboards offers unique features, customization options, and advantages, catering to different gaming preferences and budgets. By considering factors such as switch types, design, connectivity, and customization options, gamers can find the perfect mechanical gaming keyboard for their needs.

Leon Motley

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