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If you’re a hardcore gamer, not having an excellent keyboard is out of the question. And we don’t just mean machine specifications but also the aesthetics. The best backlit keyboards meet both these criteria and are popular among gamers.
Whether you are building your own PC to create the perfect setup or hoping to upgrade your gear, a backlit keyboard adds a sophisticated and beautiful glow to the computer and lights up your whole room.
Playing your favorite game in this setting can make you feel so much more authentic and immersive than with a regular setup. Of course, building a PC isn’t easy or cheap, as you need to invest quite a bit on a good processor and high-end graphics card. With that in mind, we bring you some of the best-in-class backlit keyboards that are of superior quality yet easy on the pocket.
Top Picks
11 Best Backlit Computer Keyboards In 2024
1. Best Water-Resistant:Redragon S101 Wired Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Combo
Image: Redragon First on our list is this tried-and-tested keyboard and mouse combo from Redragon. The keys are extremely quiet and offer precise, tactile feedback. This USB backlit keyboard has seven customizable RGB backlighting modes and effects. You can customize the brightness level and breathing speed of the lights if they are too bright or flashy for you. The ergonomic keyboard also has integrated wrist support for the long office hours. So, once you are done with the office work, you can jump right into playing games without any wrist tension.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- The WIN key can be disabled for uninterrupted gaming sessions.
- The keyboard has 25 conflict-free (n-Key Rollover), 10 dedicated multimedia keys, and 12 additional FN+ multimedia keys.
- It has a gold-plated, corrosion-free USB connector for faster transfer rates.
- The included gaming mouse offers high-precision sensor and weight adjustments for the ultimate gaming experience.
Cons
- It might have a low-quality plastic feel to it.
"The solid build of this keyboard stands out. Its quiet operation is a major plus, especially when I'm at the office. I'm not a fan of the mouse, though."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is a hit with users, evidenced by the 40,924 fine reviews on Amazon.
Point to consider2. Best For Hassle-Free Connectivity:Azio KB506 Vision Backlit Keyboard
Image: Azio One of the main reasons to have a backlit keyboard is that you don’t have to strain your eyes while looking for the correct keys in a dimly-lit room. Azio understands this issue more than others, so they present you with the premium KB506 Vision that features large printed keys backed by LED backlights. The keys have prints that are 2x larger than your average keyboard and are designed in a way that lets the backlight pass through it instead of bleeding from the sides. This keyboard for gamers facilitates easy identification of the keys.
Pros
- It has a 5 feet USB wire for hassle-free connectivity.
- It has 5 Interchangeable backlight colors.
- It has a dedicated brightness adjustment wheel.
- It has a comfortable palm rest for ideal hand placement.
- It has dedicated hotkeys that provide quick access to a few multimedia and productivity functions.
Cons
- The key might become sensitive even to the lightest touch.
3. Best Plug-And-Play:Logitech Illuminated Keyboard K740
Image: Image: Logitech Logitech has years of experience and they know how to make products that will cater to everyone. For users who need a non-gaming, simple keyboard with subtle backlight, this one is your best bet. Its full-sized layout and ultra-thin keyboard are perfect for your everyday use. You don’t have to worry about flashy lights with this portable backlit keyboard because only the characters on the keys are illuminated. You can adjust the brightness as required. They feature a Logitech PerfectStroke Key System that makes every keystroke feel fluid and natural without making any noise.
Pros
- Plug-and-play, 6-feet USB connector
- It has a soft-touch palm rest for optimal hand positioning.
- The keys have sharp, laser-etched backlit lighting effects with manual brightness adjustment.
Cons
- The print on the keys might fade after some time.
Redragon S101 Wired Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Combo Best Water-Resistant | Azio KB506 Vision Backlit Keyboard Best For Hassle-Free Connectivity | Logitech Illuminated Keyboard K740 Best Plug-And-Play | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Black | KB506 - 5 Colors | Black |
| Weight | 2.16 pounds | 2.6 pounds | 2.31 pounds |
| Dimensions | 17.91 x 7.2 x 0.91 inches. | 19 x 1.5 x 9 inches | 3 x 18 x 8 inches |
| Batteries | - | - | 2 AAA batteries required |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 40,924 | 9,225 | 5,836 |
| Price | $35.98 | $34.99 | $134.99 |
4. Best With Breathing Mode: NPET K10 Gaming Keyboard
Image: Npet For all the hardcore PC gamers out there, we have something special for you. This model of backlit gaming keyboards from NPET have an aesthetically pleasing and ergonomic design, four adjustable LED lighting patterns, breathing mode (alternate between seven colors), mechanical and tactile feedback keys, water-resistance, and so much more. If you are someone, who rage-quits a lot, then you might want to own this one, just in case. The body is made from a thick and firm stainless steel base plate. You do not need any additional drivers, just plug-and-play. Explore a tester’s experience in this video to learn more about this mechanical keyboard.
Pros
- Arc keycaps, anti-sweat, and anti-fatigue design
- It has a UV coating and laser carved ABS keycaps design.
- It has 104 standard keys which include 13 multimedia keys and 26 non-conflict keys.
- It has two angled-feet at the bottom to adjust the height as required.
- It automatically enters sleeping mode with 10 minutes of inactivity.
- The USB cable has an anti-interference magnet ring, gold-plated interface, and resistance to water, ensuring better data transfer rates than other PVC cables.
Cons
- The backlight cannot be changed to a solid color.
"It's been a pleasure using this keyboard with those quiet, responsive keys. Also, it's easily rechargeable via a USB cable, and once it's done, the battery runs for hours. Cleaning the key spaces is a breeze too."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Join the 16,148 satisfied buyers on Amazon who have said the product meets their needs and expectations.
Quick tip5. Best Battery Life:KLIM Chroma Wireless Gaming Keyboard
Image: Klim Unlike other backlit wireless keyboards, this gaming-grade backlit keyboard by KLIM has a faster response time to eliminate any input lags. You can take it as far as 10 meters without losing connection. The ultra-efficient and adjustable backlit keyboard features a vivid tri-color backlight scheme across three zones which elevates the whole user experience. The keys are very silent; they produce a soft sound, which offers an enjoyable typing experience without disturbing anyone else. When not in use, you can turn it off using the switch placed underneath the keyboard.
Pros
- This silent backlit keyboard for gamers has a long-lasting battery life.
- It has a FN key that acts as quick-access to certain features.
- It has 3 color modes with adjustable brightness options.
- It is tested to last 10 million keystrokes.
- It is made from durable ABS material and weighs just 480g, making it portable-friendly.
Cons
- The on/off switch might have issues in the long run.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 10,649 customers on Amazon have opined that this is one of the best products in its category.
6. Best Sleek: Earto K637 Wireless Keyboard And Mouse
Image: Earto This cutting-edge wireless option with mouse by Earto has a sleek design for office and gaming purposes and is functional. The thin and light backlit keyboard features seven-color options with adjustable brightness and a seven-degree tilt angle for comfortable typing. The mouse has a two-in-one design with four adjustable levels of DPI (800/1200/1600/2000) and a Jiggler mode. In addition, the package includes a USB-C to USB adapter and silicone keyboard cover to switch between Windows and Mac systems.
Pros
- This backlit keyboard has a compact size and is designed with a unique scissor structure for quiet typing.
- The mouse has a non-slip silicone base.
- It features wireless technology with 2.4 GHz connection type.
- The superior-quality charging overvoltage protection mechanism helps extend battery life.
- The combo has an automatic sleep function and super battery life.
Cons
- The mouse may stop functioning randomly.
- May not have a good battery life
"This keyboard and mouse set has turned out to be a solid combo. Typing feels effortless, especially with the well-lit keys. Setting it up was a breeze, and I like that all the rechargeable units work with a single USB port."
7. Best Adjustable Brightness:VicTsing Rainbow Gaming Keyboard
Image: Victsing Considering how much time an average gamer spends inside their room playing games, having a rainbow backlit keyboard is a great idea. VicTsing Rainbow Gaming Keyboard has a vibrant and colorful backlight, creating a visually pleasing atmosphere. It has an all-metal panel with shock-proof and water-resistant capabilities. This gaming backlit keyboard uses a crater structure and an ultra-thin, floating keycap design which places the keys closer to the base for high keystroke efficiency and great tactile feedback.
Pros
- It has adjustable brightness and breathing speed.
- It has 19 non-conflicting Keys and 12 multimedia keys for improved efficiency.
- Users can choose between permanent lighting and automatic breathing lights based on preference.
- The integrated wrist rest is placed at an ideal height to support long working or gaming hours.
Cons
- The keys might get loud while typing.
"My experience with this keyboard is thoroughly satisfying. It's aesthetically pleasing with the RGB lights and has a high-end, comfortable feel while typing. The highlight, though, is the ability to dial down the brightness to zero when I want to focus entirely on my work."
8. Best Unibody Design:Perixx PERIBOARD-317 Backlit Keyboard
Image: Perixx Perixx Periboard-317 is targeted towards people who like subtle things and do not fancy state-of-the-art technology. It is a wired, illuminated, full-sized backlit keyboard that gets the job done with high efficiency. The white LED backlight provides easy viewing even in the darkest rooms, making it a trusted choice. It adopts a low profile chiclet key structure that offers simple and effortless use. If you are working early morning or late in the night, you can expect the same level of comfort and convenience throughout.
Pros
- It has a 1.6-meter durable plug and play USB cable.
- The characters on the keys are bigger compared to standard keyboards.
- It has a unibody design with low maintenance requirements for extended longevity.
Cons
- The character on the keys might smudge after a certain period.
"This backlight keyboard is perfect for me as I prefer gaming in low-light conditions."
Do remember9. Best With Multimedia Keys:Langtu Membrane Gaming Keyboard
Image: Langtu There is something about white color that screams sophistication and elegance. This white multimedia backlit keyboard from Langtu is all about that. It has an aluminum alloy panel with cool-brushed metal finish to enhance the texture. It uses the stair-step keycap design that allows your fingers to reach all keys easily. Keys are very responsive to touch and are tested to last about 5 million keystrokes. The compact keyboard has a 7-color LED backlight that is soft and does not cause any strain to your eyes in the dark.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- It has a non-slip rubber pad at the bottom.
- It has removable keycaps for easy cleaning.
- The backlight can be turned off.
- It has 12 quick-access multimedia keys.
- The 25 keys anti-ghosting technology allows you to use multiple keys simultaneously.
- It has double-colored injection keycaps with uniform backlighting option, keeping the letters from fading away easily.
Cons
- The keys might be loud while typing.
"This keyboard's straightforward plug-and-play setup appeals to my young gamers. Their gaming experience has taken a total upgrade with its customizable brightness and color options. The keys are comfortable to type on, although not the quietest."
10. Best Ultra-Thin Design:seenda Backlit Wireless Keyboard
Image: Seenda seenda backlit keyboard offers three no-glare brightness levels, so you can set the backlight as per your preference. The wireless backlit keyboard also has a built-in lithium rechargeable battery, which can be recharged easily with the Type C charging cable. It also automatically shifts to sleep mode to save power. This keyboard works with PCs, laptops, computers, the Microsoft Surface series, and smart TVs.
Pros
- Scissors-switch construction keys ensure comfortable typing.
- The keyboard is compatible with Windows 2000, XP, Vista, Windows 7, 8, and Android.
- It features wireless technology with 2.4 GHz fast connection.
- It is ultra-thin at just 0.21 inches.
- The keyboard offers a precise and sensitive typing experience.
Cons
- The keyboard may not be Bluetooth enabled.
- The battery life may not be up to the mark.
"Thanks to the quick-responsive keys, I can comfortably work for hours without any hiccups. And the slim, minimalist profile blends beautifully with my room's aesthetics."
11. Best With Non-Slip Bottom: MageGee Gaming Keyboard And Mouse Combo
Image: Magegee MageGee Gaming Keyboard is a full-size, standard layout keyboard with F-keys and number keys. The unique floating keys are removable and allow easy cleaning. Plug and play with it, as no other software or drivers are needed. Additionally, it has a non-slip bottom to avoid slipping. The double-shot injection molding prevents the letters from fading and offers good light transmission. As a result, you can see the letters even if you use the keyboard in the dark. If you are looking for a decent MAC-compatible backlit keyboard, this may be a suitable choice.
Pros
- It is compatible with Win7/Win8/Win10, Windows XP, Windows Vista, MAC, Linux, and other operating systems.
- The keyboard is ergonomically designed for maximum comfort and reduces hand fatigue after prolonged use.
- It has seven-colored breathing LED lights.
- It comes with high-speed transmission technology.
Cons
- Some keys might be stiff.
- It is a wired keyboard.
"I thoroughly enjoy using this keyboard for the comfortable, soft-to-touch typing experience it offers. The clicking sound is slightly disturbing, but I still find it a decent addition to my gaming desk."
How To Choose The Right Backlit Keyboard?
Choosing a keyboard can be difficult when there are so many great options. So, make sure you purchase it based on how they meet your requirements. Here are a few pointers that should help you choose the right one.
- Design: The design of a backlit keyboard plays a major role. You will be using it pretty much all the time while working or gaming. The form factor, the key shape, and light placement define how comfortable the keyboard is. Having an integrated wrist rest is also an added advantage.
- Light color(s): If you are building a PC, then you would want your backlit keyboard to match the whole theme. You might want a simple solid color or have rainbow lights dancing across your keyboard; there is a keyboard for everything. Look for a keyboard that allows you to switch LED colors to match your mood.
- Adjustable brightness: The LED lights can be obnoxiously bright sometimes. So, pick a keyboard that does not have LED lights that are too bright. Having the ability to adjust the brightness comes in handy.
- Switch type: There are plenty of switch types that a keyboard can have. Membrane, dome-switch, scissor-switch, and roll-up are just to name a few. But, the two most common switch types when it comes to backlit keyboards are membrane and mechanical switches. Membrane switches are built-in keys on the keyboard and they do not make much noise while typing. Whereas, mechanical switches are extremely tactile and could be loud at times. Mechanical keys have an upper hand when it comes to durability, they last longer than most switch types.
- Battery: If you are choosing a wireless keyboard, it should have a long-lasting battery life. You would not want a keyboard that stops during an intense gaming moment, do you? FYI, you can turn down the intensity of the LEDs to improve the battery life.
- Compatibility: If you need a keyboard that can be used with other devices such as smart TV and gaming consoles, there are brands that offer keyboards that have multi-device compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are backlit keyboards worth it?
Backlit keyboards are worth it because they illuminate the keys, making it easier to type in low-light conditions. Backlit keyboards can also be appealing to gamers for their visual appearance.
2. Do backlit keyboards drain the battery?
Yes, backlight keyboards can drain the battery faster compared to regular keyboards. Turning it off when not in use can help save the laptop battery.
3. How long do backlit keyboards last?
Backlight keyboards generally have a long life expectancy, so you can work with peace of mind. However, as with any other electronics, following the care and safety instructions is essential.
4. Does a backlit keyboard cause overheating?
It is possible for backlit keyboards to cause overheating, as they use energy to produce light, which can generate heat. However, this is not a common issue and can be avoided by not using the backlight for extended periods.
5. Does keyboard light affect performance?
Since backlit keyboards consume more power than regular ones, they can drain your laptop’s battery life, thereby affecting performance to some extent.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedesto Chirhah is an experienced writer and reviewer specializing in electronics, automobiles, and household items. He analyzed various best-selling and industry-leading products and their user reviews to come up with the best backlit keyboards for your ultimate PC setup. The list mentions various types, including USB-connected and wireless keyboards, with specifications such as a brightness control wheel, backlight with vivid colors, water resistance, and dust protection. He also mentioned the pros and cons of each consumer-tested option and a buying guide to help you buy a suitable one that meets your needs.
The Bottom Line
Backlit keyboards are a blessing for night owls and gamers who prefer to work and play in a dark room. These keyboards boast different features—while some, like the Redragon S101 Wired Gaming Keyboard, let you optimize the brightness, others, such as the Azio KB506 Vision Backlit Keyboard, allow you to switch between colors. Further, while some feature colorful keys, models such as the Logitech Illuminated Keyboard K740 produce a monochromatic, warm light that is easy on the eyes. Overall, a backlit keyboard gives you the liberty to work and play at your convenience, no matter the time of the day or how bright or dark the room is.
Infographic: What Are The Advantages Of Using Backlit Keyboards?
Lights, keyboard, action! Backlit keyboards bring illumination to your fingertips, enhancing visibility and adding a touch of elegance to your typing experience. Explore the following infographic to discover the numerous benefits of using one and learn why you need to invest in a backlit keyboard right away. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Jana Koscova et al.; (2018); Degree of bacterial contamination of mobile phone and computer keyboard surfaces and efficacy of disinfection with chlorhexidine digluconate and triclosan to its reduction.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6210060/
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