Wired vs. Wireless Keyboards: Which Is Better for Gaming?

Wireless keyboard with RGB backlighting.

The significant advantage a wired keyboard has over a wireless one is the presence of a cable. It’s enough reason for some gamers to get hooked on a wired keyboard. For others, it’s not enough reason not to settle for a wireless one.

We take a closer look at what you stand to benefit from buying either a wired or wireless keyboard and which one fits your playing style the best.

Benefits of Wired Keyboards

Wired keyboards have the fastest reactions. Games that require lightning-fast reaction time like Apex Legends, League of Legends, Fortnite, Valorant, and Call of Duty need any advantage you get. You wouldn’t want your keyboard to be why you struggle during missions.

All you need to do is simply keep the cord plugged in, and you’re ready to start hitting the keys immediately. You run no risk of signal interference, input lag, or battery life. Your performance while playing your favourite games will be perfectly consistent.

You might want to employ good cable management tactics to deal with any clutter the wire from your keyboard might cause. Other than that, you’re all set.

Cost

When comparing the cost of a wired keyboard to a wireless one, wired keyboards are more affordable. Check out the cable’s durability, design, dedicated hotkeys, and build quality.

Latency

Video games are more competitive than ever, and what’s important for gamers is to have the least amount of latency possible. Wire keyboards generally have the lowest latency because they connect directly to the computer. 

As you hit the keys on your gaming keyboard, it sends a signal to your computer after registering an input. It takes just a few milliseconds for your PC to process and display the information on your screen.

You’ll need those extra seconds a wired keyboard will provide when gaming.

Benefits of Wireless Keyboards

Wireless keyboards don’t require a cable to connect them. It makes storing and using your keyboard away from your device very easy. You don’t even have to worry about clutter since you’re provided with a USB dongle or Bluetooth for connection.

Portability

A wireless keyboard is excellent for gamers who want to enjoy their gameplay with non-competitive games. You can easily pack and transport it from your workplace or home to anywhere else if you don’t enjoy typing on a laptop keyboard. 

If you play turn-based or story-driven games and hustling to be ranked and reach the top ladder is not in your books, you don’t have to worry too much about the type of keyboard to game with.

Appearance

Wireless keyboards nail it in the aesthetics department that a wired one doesn’t even close. No clutter to deal with, and with one less cable to worry about, your set-up looks tidier and physically pleasing.

Which is Better for Gaming?

A wired keyboard will significantly help your gameplay compared to a wireless one. We believe low latency, infinite power source, and many affordable options are why a wired keyboard is better for gaming. 

Wired and Wireless Keyboards Worth Buying

Both wired and wireless are worth spending your money on. There are advantages and disadvantages on both sides; you eventually have to look at your budget and decide which one suits your preference.

Bestseller No. 1
Logitech MK270 Wireless Keyboard And Mouse Combo For Windows, 2.4 GHz Wireless, Compact Mouse, 8 Multimedia And Shortcut Keys, For PC, Laptop - Black
  • Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer.Keyboard Key type: Deep profile. Mouse Scroll Wheel: Yes, 2D, optical.Enhanced Function Keys : Yes. Ergonomic : No.
  • Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys, Caps lock indicator light
  • Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height. Comfortable Mouse: This compact wireless mouse is designed to be equally comfortable for both left- and right-handed users, plus its smooth cursor control allows easy navigation on most surfaces
  • Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
  • Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
SaleBestseller No. 2
Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Ultra Slim Combo, TopMate 2.4G Silent Compact USB Mouse and Scissor Switch Keyboard Set with Cover, 2 AA and 2 AAA Batteries, for PC/Laptop/Windows/Mac - White
  • 【Stable 2.4G Wireless Connection】Powerful and reliable connection of wireless keyboard mouse is up to 10 m(393.7in). Wireless keyboard with mouse combo share a Nano receiver (stored at the bottom of the mouse) without installing any additional software, plug and play. Keep your desk clean and tidy.
  • 【Efficient Desktop Keyboard Wireless + Wide Compatibility】The wireless computer keyboard preserving the keys of the numeric keypad, the full-size keyboard has 11 function keys allows you to quickly access the music/volume/mail, etc(The hot-keys not fully compatible with Mac System). The keyboard mouse combo wireless is compatible with Windows XP / ME/ Vista / 7 / 8 /10 / 11 operating systems. Work well with devices which has USB slot like PC, Laptop, Macbook, desktop, Chrome-book, Smart TV.
  • 【Silent Keyboard and Mouse】The wireless office keyboard’s scissor switch keys provide less noise. Light and responsive tactile keystroke makes typing soft and comfortable. Silent cordless mouse with adjustable DPI, with a default setting of 1600 DPI, allowing you to adjust the DPI speed to your preference. It is fast and precise, keep quiet while maintaining sensitivity. Never worry about disturbing others to rest while working or playing.
  • 【Ultra-Slim and Portable Design】Wireless pc keyboard has 14.55x5.5x0.8in(37*14*2cm), 0.8in(2cm) ultra-thin ABS plastic body, which can save space and easy to carry. Kit keyboard and mouse wireless’s sleek design is super match with office desk. Perfect for business travel, office, home, library and many public occasions.
  • 【Battery Included + Keyboard Cover】 Long-lasting basic AA and AAA batteries are included in the wireless keyboard and mice combo, battery life between 3 and 5 months(varies by usage conditions). The included cover can protect your wireless office keyboard from dust and liquid. 1-Year Warranty: If quality problem with wireless keyboard & mouse set occur within one year, we will replace the new one to you for free.
SaleBestseller No. 3
Lovaky MK98 Wireless Keyboard, 2.4G Ergonomic Wireless Computer Keyboard, Enlarged Indicator Light, Full Size PC Keyboard with Numeric Keypad for Laptop, Desktop, Surface, Chromebook, Notebook, Black
  • ▶ MARVABLE TYPING ENJOY : The tight, modern, ergonomic design with height-adjustable 8 ° tilt legs gives your setup just the right amount of edge, and integrated wrist rest relelives the tired.Plug and play,just simply set wireless keyboard.Open your computer and plug the usb receiver(Don't fortget turn on the wireless keyboard switch button)**Two version shipped randomly,totally same product just with logo or not**.
  • ▶ FULL SIZE EXCELLENT TYPING : Each low profile key of the wireless keyboard allows for increased stability, while optimized key travel provides a comfortable and precise typing experience. The 12 multimedia shortcuts greatly simplify your work and more focus on the task at hand.The numeric keypad is also great for spreadsheets and finance applications.Notes: 12 easy access shortcuts cannot be compatible with Mac.
  • ▶ HASSLE FREE CONNECTION : Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable 2.4G wireless connection with up to 33 ft (10 m) range. No other driver or option needed. Seamlessly pair your computer to the wireless keyboard and no interruption.
  • ▶DUEABLE ENERGY-SAVING : Only take one 1.5V AAA alkaline batteries (not included). Up to 24 months of battery life eliminates the hassle of frequent battery changes, with a handy on/off switch and power-saving technology that preserve battery life.
  • ▶ NO DISTURB TROUBLESOME :With the crater key struction,the computer keyboard can greatly reduce the noise with only 3mm key travel.Never worry about bothering others wherever you go.Have a good time for office,home,travel,coffe time.**1 and a half Year Quality Guarantee**
SaleBestseller No. 1
Logitech K120 Wired Keyboard for Windows, Plug and Play, Full-Size, Spill-Resistant, Curved Space Bar, Compatible with PC, Laptop - Black
  • All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
  • Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
  • Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
  • Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
  • Upgrade to Logitech K270 Wireless Keyboard: Experience wireless freedom with K270, featuring 2-year battery life, plug-and-play simplicity, and reliable hassle-free wireless connection
SaleBestseller No. 2
NPET K10 Wired Gaming Keyboard, LED Backlit, Spill-Resistant Design, Multimedia Keys, Quiet Silent USB Membrane Keyboard for Desktop, Computer, PC (Black)
  • IP32 Spill Resistance: With durable construction that repels liquids and dirt for easy cleanup. Capable of withstanding accidental spills. Adjustable feet let you set your keyboard to the ideal position, so it's comfortable to use even during the longest gaming sessions.
  • Durable Full-Sized Gaming Keyboard: Made with highly-resistant ABS plastic and metal base for longevity, and durability. With a mechanical brown switch gaming feeling that delivers precise tactile feedback and responsiveness.
  • 10-Zone RGB Lighting: With 16.8 million colors and a suite of effects to choose from, press FN+M1~M5 to personalize the keyboard and get access to dynamic lighting effects.
  • Dedicated Media Control & Anti Ghosting: It has 26 conflict-free that keep you in control when you press multiple gaming keys simultaneously. 13 dedicated media keys can control your background track without switching out of your game.
  • Wear Resistant Doubleshot ABS Keycaps: The UV coating ensures more fade-resistant legends and greater protection against wear and tear from frequent use. The ergonomic stair-up keycap design brings maximum comfort keeping your hand in a natural state to minimize hand fatigue.
SaleBestseller No. 3
Computer Keyboard Wired, Plug Play USB Keyboard, Low Profile Chiclet Keys, Large Number Pad, Caps Indicators, Foldable Stands, Spill-Resistant, Anti-Wear Letters for Windows Mac PC Laptop, Full Size
  • 【Easy, Ultra-Fast to Play】CL206 wired computer keyboard is super easy to use, it works instantly with any USB devices, no driver needed, no need to worry about interference that breaks your connection, no charging or battery consumption.
  • 【Responsive Low-Profile Chiclet Keys】Provide optimized responsiveness and effortless tactile feedback that remind you the key has been hit. You can type with confidence with shorter keystroke travel so it’s decent to type on for long periods.
  • 【Slim, Modern Design】Own your style with a slim computer keyboard with premium matte finish, and you can easily carry it when you work from home. This keyboard is compact and doesn't take up a lot of real estate on the desk, great if you have a small office workspace.
  • 【Ergonomic, Noiseless Typing】The keyboard angle is adjustable with flip out legs, supporting your hands in a more ergonomic gesture to relieve fatigue and ensure comfortable typing experience. No need to worry about disturbing others around because it has 50%-reduced click noise.
  • 【Optimize Your Productivity】Boost your workflow and simply how you use your computer with a large number pad, 3 indicator lights and 12 multimedia shortcuts, including video, volume, surfing, email control etc.

Final Thoughts

The keyboard you use is only as good as your capabilities as a player. Input lag might differ between a wired and wireless keyboard, but that’s not all there is to be a good player. 

Pick a keyboard that you can play comfortably on, something with suitable switches and feels great to type on without causing finger or hand fatigue. In the end, comfort is all that matters.

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