10 Best Lighted Keyboards 2026 in the United States

The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 is designed especially for gamers who want a fast, responsive keyboard with customizable lighting and switches. It uses the advanced OmniPoint 3.0 switches, which are Hall Effect type and offer very quick response times and 40 levels of adjustable sensitivity, letting you fine-tune how hard you press a key. This makes it excellent for gaming performance and precision. The keyboard features RGB backlighting with customizable zones, so you can set lighting effects that match your style or game preferences. Brightness control is smooth and adjustable through the software.

Build quality is solid, with PBT keycaps that feel durable and comfortable. The tenkeyless (TKL) design saves desk space while keeping all essential keys, making it good for esports or small setups. Unique extras include a small OLED screen on the keyboard that shows game stats or settings without interrupting your play, and protective modes that help prevent accidental keypresses.

The keyboard connects via USB-C, ensuring a stable and fast wired connection. It weighs about 3.5 pounds, which is heavier than some ultra-light models, so it’s less ideal if you want a very portable keyboard. While packed with features and customization, beginners might find the extensive options a bit overwhelming at first. For gamers seeking a premium, customizable lighted keyboard with fast, adjustable switches and solid build, the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 is a strong choice that favors competitive gaming and customization, although it might be more than casual users require.

The SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a strong choice if you want a lighted keyboard designed with gamers in mind. Its standout feature is the dynamic per-key RGB illumination, allowing you to customize lighting effects individually on each key, which adds a visually impressive and functional layer for gaming or typing in low light. You get multiple brightness levels to adjust the glow to your preference. The hybrid blue mechanical switches combine the satisfying tactile click of a mechanical key with a smoother membrane feel, offering a unique typing experience that is both responsive and quieter than typical mechanical keyboards.

This keyboard feels sturdy thanks to its aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame, which means it can handle heavy use without flexing or breaking easily. Another nice touch is the OLED smart display that can show useful info like game stats or messages, adding some extra convenience right on the keyboard. The included magnetic wrist rest provides comfort during long sessions, which is helpful if you spend hours gaming or working.

On the downside, since it uses hybrid switches, it might not fully satisfy purists wanting a traditional mechanical feel or sound. Also, while the build is solid, the keyboard is somewhat large and heavier than average, which might not suit those with limited desk space or who need a more portable option. The USB connection limits use to devices with a USB port, which is typical but something to note if you want wireless freedom. The Apex 5 is well suited for gamers and anyone wanting a durable, highly customizable lighted keyboard with a unique hybrid switch feel and useful additional features like the OLED display.

The SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB is a great choice if you're looking for a gaming keyboard with vibrant lighting and quiet keys. It features 10-zone RGB backlighting, which means you get colorful lighting effects across different parts of the keyboard, adding a nice visual touch while you play or work. You can expect smooth and silent key presses thanks to its whisper-quiet gaming switches, which also promise a durable performance lasting up to 20 million keystrokes. The keyboard is also water-resistant (IP32 rating), helping protect it against accidental spills—a helpful feature if you often have drinks near your setup. Its build quality is solid and comfortable, especially with the included magnetic wrist rest that supports your palms during long sessions, reducing strain. The dedicated multimedia controls are handy for quickly adjusting volume or playback without leaving your game or work.

The lighting is split into 10 zones rather than per-key, so customization options are a bit more limited compared to higher-end models. Also, it’s a wired keyboard, so it requires a USB connection to your device. Compatible with Windows, Mac, and popular gaming consoles, it suits a wide range of users. This keyboard is ideal for gamers and anyone wanting a stylish, quiet keyboard with reliable build quality and useful features, without needing to invest in pricier, fully customizable lighting options.