Which is better for gaming: wireless vs. wired keyboard? When it comes to what can have a big impact on your in-game results, the gaming keyboard is generally disregarded. The truth is that the keyboard is essential, but which one should you choose? Well, the answer isn’t as simple as you may expect. Both boards will have identical switch types, sizes, and showy features such as RGB, but how will they perform?
While wireless gaming keyboards can save you money by removing the cord, they take up space on your desk and aren’t as convenient as a wireless mouse or headset. Furthermore, in the past, wireless technology was susceptible to interference and, of course, ran out of battery!
Despite these shortcomings, wireless technology has advanced to the point that it can now match the performance of wired versions, leaving the decision to your own specific wants as a player and, well, your bank account.
A Gaming Keyboard That Is Wireless
Pros
- Easy to use
- clutter-free for a neat setup
Cons
- Interference is a possibility.
- There will be a lag/delay.
- Charging is required.
- It has a tendency to be more pricey.
The major advantages for getting a wireless keyboard are convenience and keeping your setup tidy. The benefits of a completely wireless setup are always stunning, and the lack of clutter is something we can all appreciate.
Wireless gaming keyboards used to be slower and less responsive, making them far too unreliable for competitive gamers. Despite this, a wireless keyboard could be quite useful for a casual gamer, as reaction times and precision are less critical.
Latency/Lag
When comparing a wireless keyboard to a wired type, latency is now touted as being lag-free, although there is still a delay. If you need to make split-second decisions in-game, latency is critical. Some brands, such as Logitech, offer outstanding wireless technology that is stable enough to enjoy at a high level, while less expensive solutions on the market may always leave you a keypress behind the adversary.
If you’re looking for a wireless gaming keyboard, battery life is a crucial consideration. If your keyboard’s battery runs low, it could affect its performance, so you’ll want to keep it charged up all the time.
Interference
Most wireless gaming keyboards, like mice and headsets, will use a 2.4GHz connection and a USB receiver. Despite the fact that manufacturers are attempting to address the issue of interference head-on, there is going to be interference with so many wireless technologies operating in the same place. This is rare with high-quality products, but it is vital to realise that it can happen, and serious players may be put off by it.
Read More: Why Are Mechanical Keyboards So Expensive?
A Gaming Keyboard with a Cable
Pros
- Reliable
- Stable
- It never loses its strength.
- In general, less expensive.
Cons
- Cables can get in the way and have an untidy appearance.
- Flexibility is limited (need to be used on the desk near to the power source)
When the disadvantages of a wireless gaming keyboard are removed, you are left with the advantages of a tethered keyboard. The most common gaming keyboards are wired, and they provide unequalled responsiveness that any player can rely on. A cable keyboard is more stable, does not require charging, and is generally less expensive.
A wired keyboard is used by the great majority of gamers who aren’t concerned about cables in their setup. Milliseconds can make all the difference in a 1 v 1 match for pro games at the top of their respective titles, therefore the responsiveness of a wired model can, in principle, always come out on top.
Is there a pricing difference between wired and wireless? In a way, yes. Even when compared to the best wired gaming keyboards on the market, top-tier wireless gaming keyboards will set you back a good coin.
Wireless devices cost more because of the additional technology and convenience of not having to deal with wires, but whether this is worth it is ultimately up to you.
Consider the SteelSeries Apex 7 wired mechanical gaming keyboard for a better understanding. With unequalled responsiveness, functionality, and a beautiful design, this keyboard is definitely one of the best gaming models we’ve seen in a long time. Although the Apex 7 is a costly board, it is still about $50 less expensive than the top wireless gaming keyboard, the Logitech G915. $50! That’s the difference between a gaming mouse and money spent on a higher-quality component.
Which is better for gaming: wireless or wired keyboards?
The answer is still weird, but this only applies to serious gamers who are at the top of their game or are aspiring to be at the top of their game. Because our talents aren’t as honed as theirs, the rest of us will scarcely detect the slightest variances in latency or interference.
With this in mind, the question of which is better for gaming becomes a question of which is best for you and your money. If you can live without a cable running from the back of your desk, consider a wired keyboard instead. You’ll have a lot more options and you’ll never have to worry about charging it!
Final Words
What should you choose between wireless and wired keyboards for gaming? Sure, I can see the appeal of a wireless gaming keyboard if money is no object and you’re aiming for the ultimate Zen setup. They do look beautiful. This also applies to players who aren’t bothered by all the chatter about responsiveness, lag, or interference.
The truth is that wireless technology will continue to improve to the point where there will be no discernible difference and cutting the cord will appear to be a terrific idea.