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An optical keyboard uses light to register key presses, offering faster response times and longer durability than mechanical keyboards. The LEDs and photo sensors design is ideal for gamers and fast typists. However, they might lack the tactile feel and customization options some users prefer.
This article will introduce the best optical keyboards available, guiding you through top picks for performance, price, and specific needs across various use cases.
| Optical Keyboards | Best For | Price |
| Corsair K100
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Gaming | $249.99 |
| HK Gaming GK61
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Gaming | $59.99 |
| Keychron K8 Wireless
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Gaming/Typing | $99.00 |
| EVGA Z20 RGB
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Gaming | $69.99 |
| Epomaker SK96s
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Gaming/Typing | $99.00 |
| Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro
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Gaming | $145.57 |
| Razer Huntsman V3
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Gaming/Typing | $219.99 |
| Keychron K6
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Typing | $89.00 |
| Epomaker SK68
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Typing | $55.87 |
| Logitech G PRO X TKL
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Gaming/Typing | $199.99 |
| ASUS ROG Claymore II
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Gaming/Typing | $269.99 |
| Skyloong GK75
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Gaming/Typing | $59.99 |
| Skyloong GK61
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Gaming/Typing | $69.90 |
| EPOMAKER SK64S
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Typing | $30.00 |
| Razer Huntsman Mini
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Typing | $69.99 |
| SteelSeries Apex Pro
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Gaming/Typing | $209.99 |
Note: Please note that prices as shown are valid at the time of publication and are subject to change without prior notice.
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Care for an animated illustration of this high-end keyboard? Watch this video.
Special Features:
The Corsair K100 is a powerhouse gaming keyboard built for speed and precision. It features Corsair's OPX optical switches with a 1mm actuation point that is perfect for fast-paced games like first-person shooters and action RPGs. With a 4000Hz polling rate, it’s designed for gamers who need every millisecond advantage, ensuring faster response times in competitive scenarios.
The keyboard's robust design includes RGB lighting, dedicated macro keys, and a programmable control wheel, offering flexibility for both gaming and productivity tasks. Its ergonomic wrist rest adds comfort, ideal for long gaming sessions. While pricey, the K100 is a premium choice for serious gamers seeking top performance.
To have a full view of this top-notch keyboard from customers, take a look at here.
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There is nothing beat a good introduction video. Check out this video for a quick view of the HK Gaming GK61 mechanical keyboard.
HK Gaming GK61 has a very neat design with pastel color options which is definitely a plus point for female users. Their price is budget-friendly so you won’t feel overwhelmed when first coming to the custom-keyboard world.
This keyboard uses ABS keycaps which can produce a nice sound when typing but are not sweat resistant. The good point is they use Gateron optical switches that can speed up to 0.2 ms response rate and you can choose freely your favorite type of switches among many Gateron offerings. Moreover, It seems like HK Gaming highly cares for stability so, besides pre-lubed switches, there are four rubber feet on the back to prevent slipping.
If you want to utilize the most out of its RGB Backlit feature, you can download HK Gaming software to customize the lighting. However, the problem is that the app is not fully translated, leading to annoyance when using it.
Do you want to learn more about hot-swappable keyboards? So don't miss our post with in-depth expert guidance that will help you take your keyboard experience to the new level.
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Watch a video of this multi-purposed keyboard right here.
The Keychron K8 wireless optical keyboard is fully made with plastic. However, Keychron offers you a choice to switch to a plastic keyboard with an aluminum frame. Besides, you can choose between RGB white or RGB backlight and pick among three different Keychron optical switches - Red linear, Blue clicky, or Brown tactile, on a tenkeyless layout.
The keyboard is designed in a way that makes it suitable for different purposes. You can bring it to your office for work and then have it back home to enjoy playing games. That is because this K8 keyboard is very flexible. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac and can be used interchangeably between wireless and wired connections. And, what is a benefit of having wireless mode besides connecting to tablets or smartphones then?
Another strength of this keyboard belongs to its large battery. With 4000 mah, you can use K8 for about 240 hours without backlighting.
However, K8 uses ABS keycaps, and despite saying there is a 1000 Hz polling rate, the response rate of key-pressing can be slowed up to 30 ms in wireless mode. Furthermore, they do not have an add-in light self-custom function or software, so you have to download additional apps for that purpose.
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How about seeing the beauty of this keyboard with your own eyes here.
Priced at an affordable $69.99, the EVGA Z20 RGB stands out among optical keyboards for those on a budget. Despite the lower cost, it offers impressive features like RGB backlighting, a high polling rate, and five programmable macro keys. This makes it ideal for gamers and users seeking a customizable experience without the premium price tag associated with other optical keyboards.
While the EVGA Z20 may lack the high-end build quality of pricier models, it compensates with a 1.5mm actuation point for quick, responsive keypresses. This fast actuation is particularly useful for gamers needing rapid decisions in competitive play. However, typists might find the keys less satisfying compared to more tactile options. For its price, it’s an excellent balance of performance and value.
If you want to level up your gaming experience without breaking the bank, explore the top gaming keyboards under $100 on our blog to make the best choice for you
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The first noticeable thing about this 96-layout hot-swappable keyboard is its aesthetic design. Soft white, greyish black, and earth-toned orange get together to make a pretty-looking keyboard.
Besides, the Epomaker SK96S has a great variety of choices to choose from. You can pick between ABS or PBT keycaps, and you can also choose among Gateron switches, ranging from optical or mechanical to blue, black, or more.
In addition, this keyboard allows you to work with 4 different devices at once thanks to the latest Bluetooth 5.1 chipset. And, whether your operating system is MAC or Windows, you are able to connect with the Epomaker SK96S pretty well. Plus, it has a long-lasting battery that is up to 240 hours and is friendly with left-hand people.
On the other hand, it has a pretty hefty price but the RGB effects are far from being worthy of the price. A lot of people complained about how poor the LED colors are and their dull brightness. Moreover, the printed characters on the keycaps are not made well, resulting in being difficult to see when the light turns down.
You can visit Epomaker’s website to learn more about the SK96S optical keyboard.
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We think you might want to see this video to check out the RGB lighting of Roccat Vulcan keyboard.
Special features:
Weighing just 1.5 pounds, the Roccat Vulcan TKL Pro offers a lightweight design perfect for gamers who prefer portability without sacrificing performance. Its compact size allows for more mouse movement, which is crucial for precision in fast-paced games like FPS or MOBAs. The lightweight build also makes it easy to transport, especially for those attending gaming events or LAN parties.
This keyboard’s design is enhanced with a detachable USB-C cable and a durable aluminum top plate, ensuring both portability and resilience. Despite its light frame, the Vulcan TKL Pro maintains premium features, including customizable RGB lighting and fast, responsive Titan optical switches. Gamers seeking a lightweight and powerful keyboard will find this model an excellent choice for gaming and everyday use.
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Razer Huntsman V3 fastest optical gaming keyboard with Razer snap tap (Source: Razer)
Special Features:
The Razer Huntsman V3 stands out for its sensitivity and responsiveness, thanks to its Razer analog optical switches Gen 2. These switches eliminate debounce delay, providing lightning-fast input with an 8000Hz polling rate that’s essential for competitive gaming. The keyboard’s Rapid Trigger Mode enables quick repeated actions, giving players a distinct advantage in fast-paced games like FPS and MOBAs, where split-second decisions matter.
Moreover, the adjustable actuation allows users to fine-tune key sensitivity from 0.1mm to 4.0mm, adapting to individual playstyles. This high level of customization enhances precision, making the Huntsman V3 one of the best optical gaming keyboards for esports professionals and gamers who prioritize speed and accuracy.
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The Keychron K6 is a 65% compact optical keyboard designed with Mac users in mind. Its layout is optimized for macOS, offering dedicated multimedia keys and a seamless transition for those accustomed to Apple keyboards. With hot-swappable optical switches, the K6 delivers both precision and durability, allowing users to easily replace switches as needed, making it one of the best optical mechanical keyboards for customization.
The K6 excels in its wireless connectivity, supporting up to three devices via Bluetooth, ideal for multitasking across Mac, iOS, and even Windows devices. Additionally, it includes a USB-C option for a wired connection, ensuring low latency when required. The long battery life and compact design provide further convenience for users who need a portable, high-performing keyboard tailored specifically to the Mac ecosystem.
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Epomaker knows how to make pretty keyboards that attract female customers. The Epomaker Skyloong SK68 is not out of that category. Besides the black and grey layout that is suitable for men, it has two other versions with white-red and white-pink layouts.
The strengths of this SK68 keyboard are its portable ability and flexibility. By allowing us to switch between wired and wireless modes and a wide range of operating system compatibility, we can feel free to connect the keyboard with whatever devices we want. However, some people complain that the signal response time when in Bluetooth mode is quite slow.
Another fun thing about this keyboard is its customizable ability. By using hot-swap Gateron optical keyswitches and durable PBT keycaps, you can mix and match different color Gateron switches to create your ultimate keyboard with your unique personal touch.
Let's immerse yourself in the cuteness of Epomaker SK68 by visiting this link.
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The Logitech G PRO X TKL is designed for competitive gamers who need precision and speed. Equipped with GX Red Linear optical switches, this keyboard delivers smooth, responsive keystrokes perfect for fast-paced gaming. Its low-latency performance, powered by Logitech's Lightspeed technology, ensures every keypress registers instantly, making it a top choice for esports professionals.
The compact tenkeyless design of this Logitech optical keyboard offers portability without compromising on essential features, including customizable RGB backlighting and durable double-shot PBT keycaps. The included carrying case and Game Mode, which disables unnecessary keys during gameplay, further elevate its appeal for competitive gaming setups.
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The ASUS ROG Claymore II stands out with its modular design, featuring a detachable numpad that provides versatility for gamers who prefer either a full-size or compact 80% layout. Its ROG RX optical mechanical switches offer a fast 1ms response time, an excellent choice for competitive gaming. Wireless connectivity through 2.4GHz ensures low-latency gameplay and the 4,000mAh battery allows up to 144 hours of use, offering convenience for extended gaming sessions.
The keyboard's versatility is further enhanced by the customizable RGB lighting via Aura Sync and the inclusion of a magnetic wrist rest for ergonomic support. While it lacks Bluetooth, the wireless performance and flexibility of the detachable numpad make this one of the best wireless optical keyboards for gamers seeking both comfort and high-end performance.
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The Skyloong GK75 offers an excellent balance between affordability and performance with its 75% compact layout, ideal for users needing more desk space. The hot-swappable optical switches allow easy customization and a smooth typing experience from the tactile and linear switch options that are suitable for both gamers and typists. The double-shot PBT keycaps and solid build ensure durability, making it a great budget-friendly optical keyboard.
Another feature is the programmable knob, providing flexibility for controlling various functions, and the customizable RGB backlighting adds a personal touch. While the aluminum knob can be slightly wobbly and the typing feel isn't as bouncy as some high-end models, the GK75 still delivers exceptional value for its price, positioning itself as one of the best optical keyboards in the 75% category.
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The Geek GK61 has a standard layout with 61 keys. In terms of appearance, it has a simple modest look which offers you two choices of colors- black or white. This keyboard is quite light with a body made wholly from ABS, from the keycaps to the backplate.
In terms of functions, this affordable keyboard allows you to have so much fun doing game macro or programming light effects. With enough creativity, you can customize the LED lights to shine through your keyboard in a musical way.
The Geek GK6 uses Gateron optical switches like the Epomaker SK68 above. This allows you to choose which type of Gateron switches meets your requirements. In addition, the optical switches from Gateron are famous for their buttery smooth typing and high-speed response rate. That makes the Geek GK61 suitable for typing and gaming experience.
The drawback is that the keycaps are made of ABS and the key structure is slightly shaky.
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This Epomaker Skyloong SK46S is one of the highly recommended 60% keyboards. It uses hot-swappable Gateron optical switches so you have free control over how you want your keyboard to be.
Like other keyboards coming from Epomaker, the SK64S is also portable as you can switch between wired and wireless connections. Additionally, the keyboard is also compatible with the MAC system.
A unique selling point of this SK64S keyboard is the PBT thermal sublimation keycaps that are oil resistant. Another plus is it applies the IP6X dustproof technology. Hence, the printed character on each key can last very long and the whole keyboard can pass the test of time smoothly.
However, also just like other Epomaker keyboards, the wireless connection by using Bluetooth shows trouble sometimes. It can lose the connection or respond slowly. Furthermore, the layout can be quite cramped so for those who are not used to it, it can feel uncomfortable and easy to mistype.
Check out the Epomaker SK64S keyboard by visiting its website here.
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The Razer Huntsman Mini is a 60% compact keyboard known for its fast Razer optical switches, which offer a 0.2ms response rate. This compact design allows for more desk space, perfect for gamers needing extra mouse movement room. Despite its small size, it retains full functionality with programmable RGB lighting and customizable keycaps through Razer’s Synapse software.
As a trusted brand, Razer ensures top-tier performance with the Huntsman Mini. Although compact, this keyboard doesn’t sacrifice build quality or performance, making it suitable for gamers seeking portability without compromising speed. However, the plastic build and some key wobbling may be minor drawbacks of this Razer optical keyboard at a price point above $100.
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The SteelSeries Apex Pro is a splendid full-key layout keyboard made with high-end aluminum alloy. Moreover, the brand includes premium double-shot PBT keycaps and a magnetic wrist rest that makes typing on this keyboard feels like another level.
The key advantage of this gaming keyboard is it uses OmniPoint adjustable switches. This is a new kind of switch that allows you to change the travel distance from 0.4 mm to 3.6 mm. In addition, OmniPoint switches have made a record as the fattest switches so there is no way this SteelSeries Apex Pro is inferior to any optical keyboard.
At the right corner, there are a roller and a media key allowing you to turn on, off, up, down, pause the sound conveniently, or even adjust the brightness.
The minor problem is its magnetic wrist rest. Even if it is truly comfortable to place your wrist on, is easy to attract dust.
Since SteelSeries is one of the companies that are pioneers of exploring technology, their official website is a full pack of cool, awesome, futuristic stuff. So, don’t forget to check it out.
Optical keyboards utilize light to register keystrokes, resulting in faster actuation than mechanical keyboards. Optical switches come in three main types: linear, tactile, and clicky, each offering a distinct typing experience. Linear switches provide smooth keystrokes, while tactile and clicky switches offer more feedback.
Typing experience varies based on the type of switch used. Many users find optical switches smoother and faster, ideal for tasks requiring rapid input, such as coding or data entry. However, some prefer the more pronounced tactile feedback of mechanical switches. The quiet operation of optical keyboards can be ideal for shared workspaces, while mechanical ones often provide a more satisfying auditory and tactile response.
For competitive gaming, optical keyboards generally outperform mechanical ones due to faster actuation and reduced debounce delay. Red or black switches are particularly favored for gaming, as they allow for smoother, uninterrupted keystrokes. The best optical gaming keyboard offers an edge in fast-paced games where quick reactions are key, making optical keyboards the go-to choice for gamers who need every millisecond advantage.
Optical keyboards often outlast mechanical ones due to their contactless actuation system, which reduces wear over time. This design ensures a longer lifespan, with many models rated for up to 100 million keystrokes. Additionally, optical keyboards resist common issues like debris buildup, enhancing reliability. While high-end mechanical keyboards can last this long, budget models typically have a shorter lifespan.
Noise levels vary depending on the switch type. Optical keyboards, particularly linear or Topre switches, tend to be quieter than other ones, especially those with clicky switches. For users in shared or quiet environments, the reduced noise of optical switches is an advantage. Mechanical keyboards, however, offer a range of silent switches, that are suitable for noise-sensitive situations as well.
Customization is a key feature of both optical and mechanical keyboards. Many optical keyboards, especially the best optical switch keyboard models, come with hot-swappable switches and RGB lighting, allowing users to personalize their setup. Programmable keys, through dedicated software, offer further control for gamers and typists. However, mechanical keyboards generally provide more modding options, including custom keycaps and switch types.
Optical switches are typically about 5ms faster than mechanical switches in response time. This is because optical switches use light to detect keystrokes, which allows for quicker actuation.
Overall, the combination of faster response times, reduced actuation distance, and increased durability makes optical switches a preferred choice for many gamers and typists seeking high performance.
If you want to know more about what the optical principle can do and whether they outperform our conventional mechanical switches, please visit our article ‘Optical vs Mechanical Switches – which is better?’ for a thorough analysis.
All the 12 opto mechanical keyboards we have listed here are pretty cool to go for. As the optical switch technology is quite new and high advanced, not all keyboard brands can have their pawns in this market. Maybe thanks to that, you can choose any optical keyboard and feel relieved with its qualities.
If you are a tech explorer, we truly think the optical keyboards will bring you a worthy journey.
Here is our number one list:
Choose one of the names below if you’re looking for a budget optical keyboard:
If you prefer a compact keyboard to a full layout one, those optical keyboards will probably satisfy your needs:
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