Mechanical Gaming Keypad Buying Guide: What to Look for and Avoid
1. Type of Switch
When considering the type of switch for your keypad, think about how this will affect the feel and responsiveness of each button. Mechanical switches are typically considered to be best in terms of durability and feedback, although these can also be louder and more expensive than other types.
Membrane switches offer a quieter and more affordable option but may not have the same level of responsiveness or durability as mechanical ones. Dome switches provide a middle ground between membrane switches and mechanical ones; they are usually cheaper than mechanical keys, though not as durable or responsive.
2. Size and Layout
When selecting a mechanical gaming keypad, you should take the size of it into consideration. It is important to make sure that it fits comfortably on your desk and does not take up too much space.
Additionally, pay attention to the layout of the keys and how easy they are to reach while playing games with them. Some keypads may also have extra features such as macro keys or a built-in joystick which can be helpful for certain types of games.
If you think these features will be useful for you, look out for keypads that offer them so you can get the most out of your gaming experience.
3. Backlighting
Backlighting is an important feature for gaming keypads, as it can help you to identify keys in low light conditions. When looking for a gaming keypad with backlighting, make sure that the product offers customizable options.
This means that you should be able to choose from different colors and patterns of lighting so that you can customize the look of your keyboard and get the most out of your gaming experience.
Additionally, some gaming keypads will also let you adjust the brightness settings or have special effects like pulsing lights or rainbow color cycles.
4. Software and Macro Support
Some keypads come with built-in macros, while others may need additional software in order to set up custom macros or customize the overall layout of the keys.
Having access to this type of software can be extremely helpful when trying to create unique commands or shortcuts for your gaming experience. Additionally, some devices also offer options such as remapping keys on certain profiles and saving multiple different profiles with different settings.
It is important to research what type of customization options are available before making a purchase decision so you can ensure you get exactly what you want from your new gaming setup.
5. Brand Reputation
Make sure to look for reviews and ratings from actual customers. This can give you a good indication of how reliable the product is, as well as how well customer service responds to any issues that may arise.
It’s also worth asking friends or looking into online communities for recommendations on what brands are best when it comes to mechanical gaming keypads. Reading through others’ experiences with various products can be immensely helpful in making an informed decision about which one to purchase.
6. Price
It is important to determine your budget first. This will help narrow down the options and ensure that you don’t overspend.
While higher priced items may seem more attractive, they don’t always guarantee better quality. It is important to do research on different models within your price range before making a purchase.
Read reviews from other customers, compare features between products and decide which one offers the best value for money.
7. Extra Features
Many models come with additional features such as a built-in wrist rest, detachable cord or media keys which can be very useful when gaming.
However, these extras often come at an added cost so it is important to weigh the benefits versus the increased expense before making your decision. Additionally, if you are looking for portability then you will want to make sure that your chosen keypad offers a detachable cord option which will allow you to easily move and store your device without having to worry about tangled cords.