10 Best Lighted Keyboards 2025 in the United States

The SteelSeries Apex Pro HyperMagnetic Gaming Keyboard stands out in the lighted-keyboard category due to its highly customizable RGB backlighting. With 40 levels of per-key actuation, users can set specific keys for various lighting and response needs, making it ideal for precise gaming actions. The brightness levels are adjustable, ensuring clear visibility in different lighting conditions, and the multiple lighting zones add to the dynamic visual appeal of the keyboard.

Additionally, the OmniPoint 2.0 Adjustable HyperMagnetic switches offer a faster actuation and response time compared to traditional mechanical keyboards, which is great for gamers seeking rapid and smooth performance. The inclusion of an OLED smart display allows for in-game and app information to be viewed directly on the keyboard, which is a convenient feature. The USB passthrough option is useful for connecting additional devices without cluttering your gaming setup. Moreover, the wrist rest adds comfort during long gaming sessions.

For non-gamers or those not seeking advanced customization, this keyboard might be more feature-heavy and expensive than necessary. The specialized 2-in-1 action keys and rapid trigger function are particularly tailored for gaming, which may not be as beneficial for general use. The SteelSeries Apex Pro HyperMagnetic is a top-tier gaming keyboard with extensive lighting and customization options, best suited for serious gamers looking for precision and performance enhancements.

The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL Esports Gaming Keyboard is designed with competitive gamers in mind, particularly those who enjoy FPS games. Its standout features include Analog Optical Switches GEN-2, which offer precise and fast inputs with an adjustable actuation range from 0.1 to 4.0 mm. This adjustability allows users to fine-tune the keyboard's response to their preferences, making it highly customizable for different gaming styles. The Rapid Trigger technology is another highlight, resetting keys at the slightest lift of a finger, which is beneficial for quick, responsive movements in fast-paced games.

The Razer Snap Tap feature also adds to the keyboard's responsiveness by allowing users to prioritize inputs without the need to release the previous key, enhancing the fluidity of directional changes during gameplay. The keyboard is equipped with RGB backlighting, providing a visually appealing setup with multiple brightness levels and lighting zones. The build quality is robust, featuring Doubleshot PBT keycaps that are durable and resistant to wear. Additionally, the inclusion of media keys and a dial offers convenient access to various functions, and the wrist rest adds comfort for extended gaming sessions.

However, the keyboard might be overkill for casual gamers or those not heavily invested in competitive gaming due to its advanced features and likely higher price point. It is also worth noting that to fully utilize the Razer Snap Tap feature, a firmware update is required. This keyboard is best suited for serious gamers who prioritize speed, precision, and customization in their gaming peripherals.

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Wireless is a high-end gaming keyboard designed for players who want fast, precise control without cables. It features customizable RGB backlighting, allowing you to pick from millions of colors to light up individual keys, which can enhance your gaming experience by highlighting essential keys. The keyboard uses OmniPoint 2.0 Adjustable HyperMagnetic switches, which are special because you can adjust how far a key needs to be pressed before it registers, making it easier to react quickly or avoid accidental key presses. This unique feature lets you set different sensitivity for different keys, such as light touches for movement and deeper presses for special actions. The keyboard is tenkeyless (TKL), so it doesn't have a number pad, making it more compact and easier to carry around, which is appreciated in esports and smaller desk setups. Build quality is solid with a premium aluminum top plate, giving it a sturdy and durable feel. Additionally, it has an OLED screen that can display useful information or settings, adding a modern touch.

Connectivity options include both ultra-fast 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth, giving flexibility to connect to multiple devices. It also includes a detachable USB-C cable for wired use or charging. The PBT keycaps are durable and resistant to shine from prolonged use, enhancing comfort and longevity. On the downside, the keyboard is a bit heavier than average for a wireless TKL at about 2.36 pounds, and it requires battery power, meaning you'll need to keep it charged. Also, without a number pad, it may not suit users who frequently use numbers for work or data entry. This keyboard is ideal for gamers and esports enthusiasts seeking a highly customizable, fast-responding wireless keyboard with excellent lighting and build quality, though it might be less suitable for those needing a full-size keyboard or simpler features.