When it comes to the world of competitive gaming, your keyboard is arguably the most important piece of hardware after your PC. This is especially true for the games like Valorant, where factors like ultrafast response time and precision can make or break the game. And this is where a mechanical keyboard trumps its membrane peer by many miles.
Regardless of your skill level and experience, you would be better off with a mechanical keyboard, especially if you are serious about improving your aim. Mechanical keyboards are more durable, offer better response time, and are ultimately the superior gaming keyboards for both looking to make the jump or are already way ahead of the curve. You will need to know exactly what you want, though, as there are dozens of different switches, sizes, and layouts to choose from depending on specific needs.
Today we will talk about some of the best keyboards for Valorant in 2022, along with how they make your game better. Our team rolled up its sleeves and dug into a bunch of popular mechanical keyboards, and compiled this ultimate list of seven super-fast models with critical features and functionalities – exactly what gamers need, no more, no less.
In Valorant, your keyboard is your lifeline. It will have an immediate impact on your combat performance and can potentially mean the difference between victory and defeat. Therefore, we made sure to choose only high-quality mechanical switches with unique tactile responses so you can feel each keystroke. All of our keyboards have fully customizable RGB backlighting for them to look great during extended gameplay sessions. In short, we spared no expense to find the ideal keyboards that feel just right to us, and we are confident that you will love them too.
In a hurry? Here are our top 3 picks when it comes to the best keyboards for Valorant in 2022!
Best Overall
Budget Pick
Runner Up
What are the Features of The Best Keyboard for Valorant?
While mechanical keyboards are way better for gaming and typing hands down, they are more of an acquired taste. They tend to be louder and require a bit of force to press the keys, and the tactile and auditory feedback of switches can take some time to get used to as well.
That said, there are some features on keyboards that can influence your performance during gameplay, making them more effective than their lesser counterparts. Here’s what you should look for in a keyboard if you are serious about doing good in Valorant:
1. Excellent Build Quality
When you are shopping for a keyboard, it’s tempting to go with the cheapest one you can find. But when it comes to gaming, it is more than just picking the most affordable or the flashiest ones. Since your keyboard is just as crucial as your mouse and your graphics card, spending a little extra on its build quality could mean the difference between winning and losing.
The right mechanical keyboard for valorant needs to be comfortable, durable, and have keys that feel good when you’re tapping them, plus should outlive you (almost). Each model we mentioned here is handpicked only after making sure of its premium workmanship, high-quality metal frame, durable keyboard mounts, and rock-solid keycaps.
A good mechanical keyboard will last for years, but it won’t matter if you don’t like the feel of its keys. We looked at the overall feel of each keystroke on each keyboard we tested, assessing how much bounce or “play” there was when we pressed on it with our fingers.
2. Keycaps
Want your keyboard to sound better, look functional, and feel smoother when you are busy aiming at your enemies in Valorant? Then it’s the keycaps of a mechanical keyboard that you should pay most attention to.
Everyone has a favorite, but it can be hard to know which caps will make your typing experience feel the best when shopping for a new keyboard. From sculpted keycaps to lightweight ABS caps, or customized PBT sets, they come in all shapes and sizes, textures and colors – and that can be overwhelming. If you are unsure where to start or what kind of keycaps would fit your style exactly, this guide will help.
3. Programmability
Unlike your everyday membrane companion, a decent mechanical keyboard will allow reprogramming the layout and individual keys, allowing you to change the function of any key on your board.
4. Removable cable
A removable cable is always preferred over a non-removable one as replacing only the cable is much easier and cost-effective than the whole expensive keyboard in case of cable damage. Also, keyboards with removable cables are typically cheaper than their built-in counterparts.
5. Hot-Swappable switches
A mechanical gaming keyboard with hot-swappable switches is a potent tool in any gamer’s arsenal. Mechanical switches provide a more clicky tactile response when typing, and sometimes certain switch types may be better suited for a particular game or player’s style. The ability to easily try different types of switches without having to solder anything can expand your options in a way that could potentially help you improve your gameplay.
6. Gaming mode
Did you notice anything strange when playing Valorant with your keyboard? That’s right; the Windows key is MIA! Some mechanical keyboards come with a Gaming mode feature that disables the Windows key to prevent accidentally pressing it during gameplay.
7. Recording Macro
This feature is a boon for anyone who works with something that requires a lot of repetitive keystrokes, especially in simulation games and MMOs. Some keyboards allow macros to be recorded on the fly using the software, with each key individually mapped to any function you can imagine.
8. RGB backlight
It is another exciting feature of modern gaming keyboards. A keyboard with good RGB lighting offers responsive animations, is effortless to customize, and lets the gamer change colors based on their preferences.
9. Custom software
We are fans of mechanical keyboards, which include software for additional customizations. While this is not a must-have feature, it makes certain options much easier to use. A good keyboard software will allow you to record macros, change key bindings, and customize the RGB backlighting without breaking a sweat.
1. Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 Rapidfire – Best Overall
The CORSAIR K70 RGB MK.2 is a high-performance mechanical keyboard that is engineered to exceed your every expectation. Efficient, durable, and lightweight, this keyboard delivers impressive results with virtually no noise.
Boasting an anodized brushed aluminum frame while housing gorgeous per-key backlit multi-color RGB LEDs in a solid form factor, it is built to withstand a serious beating.
Its simple layout is easy to learn and provides all of the essential features you need. Corsair K70 is one of the few mechanical keyboards that offer a no-nonsense design that looks great in any lighting environment.
The K70 RGB MK.2 uses CHERRY MX Speed key switches which provide a 1.2mm actuation for lightning-fast response in gaming situations. Its 8MB profile storage will allow you to have up to three saved profiles available on the fly without the need for any additional software, so your most-used macros and lighting settings are always at your disposal.
The USB pass-through port is positioned for uninterrupted gameplay, letting you keep your mouse or headset plugged in without sacrificing any of your precious desktop real estate.
The Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 is the ideal mechanical gaming keyboard for performance-driven gamers who don’t just play games but play hard. Enjoy 100% Cherry MX Speed gaming key switches, full-key rollover, precision anti-ghosting capabilities, and immerse yourself in total control at your fingertips.
Why is Corsair K70 the best keyboard for Valorant in 2022?
The Corsair K70 is a killer keyboard for a gamer, a hobbyist, or someone who just wants a solid mechanical keyboard. It is packed with features and has a great look that isn’t too flashy.
This keyboard comes with Cherry MX Speed switches which are perfect for gamers that need faster response times. With them, you’ll get fast actuation and low-noise operation with excellent tactile feedback. And along with textured FPS/MOBA keycaps for extra grip, you can hit critical commands faster during heated gameplay valorant. Also, multimedia controls are already embedded, so you don’t have to install any software.
The K70 is built for durability, and it’s easy to see once you look at the solid construction of the board itself. The keyboard is based on a rigid aluminum case for an immobile design, offering reliability without adding extra weight to your backpack. The foldable, soft-touch wrist rest makes long gaming sessions more comfortable. It draws less power from the USB port than many other keyboards as well, making it gentle on your PC components.
Corsair K70 is easily the best choice for Valorant and other top fast-paced AAA titles and competitive esports.
2. HyperX Alloy FPS Pro – Budget Pick
The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro mechanical keyboard is the perfect choice for the gamer that wants to take their game to the next level without breaking their bank. The super minimal all-function design combined with a steel body provides durability and stability, while the Cherry MX mechanical keys offer reliability and performance for extended gameplay. The all USB connection makes it easier to use your keyboard on any computer without installing software.
It features a tenkeyless layout with no number pad, offering an 18% reduction in key size and making the construction ultra-compact and ideal for FPS gaming. This tenkeyless design is perfect for Valorant players who want to throw their mouse closer to the center of their body to improve their reaction time. Customizing and fine-tuning your keys with the easy-to-use HyperX NGenuity software is a breeze. (https://texasdls.com/)
Tested extensively by FPS pro gamers, this keyboard’s features are further enhanced with crucial functionalities like 100% anti-ghosting, dedicated game mode, and full n-key rollover, allowing multiple keys to be pressed simultaneously, thus adding high precision during a long nail-biting session of Valorant gaming.
The Alloy FPS Pro is designed with pro gamers in mind. This hand-assembled, solid steel keyboard is built for the rigors of travel and pro tournament play to give you everything you need to excel at your best at a surprisingly low price.
3. Razer BlackWidow Tournament Edition Chroma v2 – Runner Up
The Razer BlackWidow Chroma v2 gaming keyboard is the ultimate weapon to dominate your game, featuring individually backlit keys with ten dynamic lighting effects and advanced Chroma gaming illuminated technology that can display a full range of 16.8 million colors to give you visual feedback in real-time. Equipped with five programmable macro keys and an ergonomically designed wrist rest, the keyboard provides you comfort and productivity all in one.
It is a sleek, compact mechanical keyboard crafted for tournament-grade gaming and combines premium gaming-optimized features, including the newly designed Razer Green Switch, the fastest wired connection with 2 meters braided fiber USB cable, 100% anti-ghosting design with mechanical switches capable of handling up to 80 million keystrokes. The Chroma v2 also comes with a detachable magnetic wrist rest wrapped with plush leatherette for additional comfort during long gaming periods.
The Razer BlackWidow Tournament Edition’s completely rebuilt mechanical switch based on an aircraft-grade aluminum top case will help you take your gaming performance to new heights. While providing tactile and audible feedback for the competitive advantage, the keyboard lets you control everything from audio mixing to in-game actions with a single keyboard.
4. Logitech G915 TKL Lightspeed Wireless – Premium Pick
Logitech’s Lightspeed wireless technology means that you can play wirelessly, without the restriction of a cable. The battery life will let you enjoy that freedom for up to 40 hours between charges. And with mechanical switches available in three different options, you will be able to find the perfect feel and performance for your style of gameplay. Plus, take advantage of RGB lighting options with Logitech G HUB software to customize each key from a palette of 16.8 million colors to create colorful animations or set up single-color LED lighting.
The Logitech G915 Lightspeed’s Low Profile mechanical switches are rated for an impressive 70 million keystrokes – that’s significantly more than the other keyboards in the same league. The distance between each key on the Logitech G915 Lightspeed is 1.5 mm, allowing for very fast transitions when you are typing or playing games.
Featuring a streamlined tenkeyless design, Logitech’s exclusive GL Clicky switches deliver a 25% faster key response rate for ultra-fast double and triple taps without the audible click. With its low-profile design, the Logitech G915 keeps your fingers close to the keys for improved accuracy and control.
5. SteelSeries Apex Pro
Open your door to the world of gaming with the SteelSeries Apex Pro mechanical keyboard. This keyboard is built to fit small spaces and packed with features such as the integrated OLED smart display for on-the-fly adjustments, long key travel, and premium magnetic wrist rest for comfort while playing.
Apex Pro keyboard will completely change the way you game. Its unique, low-profile keys are engineered for PC gaming and are built to last. The Apex Pro uses an extremely durable, aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction for a lifetime of stability. Its completely redesigned magnetic wrist rest provides full palm support, comfort and increases your accuracy by reducing hand fatigue. It also comes with the SteelSeries Engine 3 software suite so you can set custom RGB illumination effects and modify the Apex Pro’s performance macros to perfectly fulfill your play style.
SteelSeries Apex Pro boasts the one-of-a-kind Apex Trigger, providing lightning-quick actions without your fingers leaving the home row. Plus, with its adjustable actuation distance (0.4 to 3.6 mm), you can create your perfect feel with ease. The keyboard strives to deliver the most consistent responsiveness across all keys with unbelievable accuracy on every keypress.
6. Logitech G PRO
Logitech G PRO is a tournament-grade gaming keyboard crafted for serious competitions. Simple and intuitive to use, it has a desktop layout with a tenkeyless design that makes additional room for you to have a nearly full range of mouse movements.
The keyboard features durable, easy-to-clean GX Blue switches designed to handle intense gaming rigors. Each key can be assigned a game command or Macros via Logitech G HUB Software suite, enabling you to launch actions with just one touch. The keyboard also features LIGHTSYNC technology, which provides nearly infinite customization. The onboard memory stores patterns for LIGHTSYNC enabled system software, allowing you to program static lighting effects without installing G HUB.
It is one of the best compact keyboards for smaller setups that delivers pro-grade durability you can depend on. The detachable Micro USB cable not only provides power to charge your device but also comes with a unique three-prong design, allowing for easier connection and safe transport while carrying in your backpack; plus, an 80m wireless range means you can use it almost anywhere.
Logitech G PRO gaming keyboard makes your gameplay better by enabling advanced performance and customizability for all gamers.
7. Razer Huntsman V2 Optical
Tailored for non-stop action with a compact layout and all the controls you need to win, the Huntsman V2 is right at home even when the action heats up. This one-of-a-kind keyboard features a multi-function digital dial, durable PBT keycaps, and linear switches to give you ultimate control, and its innovative sound dampening technology offers an almost silent typing and gaming experience.
Now you can store your most critical gaming weapons on the quick-access panel of the Huntsman V2’s mechanical keyboard. The full set of essential switches includes new linear contact Razer Opto-Mechanical™ switches with 30-percent lower actuation force, letting you register your critical commands rapidly and more accurately, giving you the edge in stealth missions when every keystroke matters. And with the low-profile aluminum top plate, there are no switches poking up when you’re looking for a rapid tap.
The keyboard offers myriad customization options. You can choose between 9 different lighting effects or simply pick one of the five pre-configured game profiles optimized for different genres, ensuring that all the keys are always within reach for your needs. With almost 20-million key combinations, there’s truly something for everyone.
Also read: Best Low Profile Mechanical Keyboards
Frequently Asked Question
Which switch is best for Valorant?
The right switch is a matter of personal preference, but Cherry MX Switches are by far the most popular choice among gaming keyboard users. The range consists of linear switches and tactile switches – with both different offering levels of responsiveness. Each one gives you an audible click when pressed, so you will always know when a shot has landed!
The Cherry MX Red Key Switch is designed for fast-paced games that require quick actions per minute. Pro-gamers use the linear Cherry MX Red switch because speed and precision are crucial for first-person shooters games like Valorant, where quick finger movement is paramount.
What keyboards do professional Valorant players use?
Suppose you’re a professional Valorant gamer and require a keyboard that is going to work in the long run while also offering the essential responsiveness for high-end gaming. In that case, a mechanical board with preferably Cherry Mx switch is a must – and pro-gamers use exactly that kind. Go through our list of best keyboards for valorant in 2022 above and select the ideal one that fits your needs and gameplay style.
What is the fastest response keyboard for Valorant?
SteelSeries Apex Pro keyboard is built for gamers who want the fastest response time, thanks to its OmniPoint mechanical switches that deliver 25% faster actuation than standard mechanical keyboards. However, the quickest response doesn’t necessarily translate to the best always – your skill level as a Valorant player needs to match its crazy feedback rate, which only competition-ready gamers are capable of handling.
Final thoughts
Hopefully, you’ve found this guide about the best keyboards for Valorant in 2022 to be quite helpful. The mechanical keyboard world is a broad one, and it can be hard to make a decision without trying them for yourself. Thankfully most manufacturers offer demo units, so if you are keen on owning a mechanical keyboard to improve your Valorant gameplay, be sure to look for one with this option and try before you buy!
