Which Keyboard is best? Gaming or a Full office Keyboard.
Posted by NormalReddituser9734@reddit | buildapc | View on Reddit | 114 comments
Hi, I'm learning game development + 3D modeling, Should I choose a Gaming keyboard or a regular full-sized keyboard "With Numpad"
What you guys say?
talllia00@reddit
It's a personal preference if you ask me, you don't need expensive ones
dziningmeddlesome@reddit
look on amayon, there are great and affordable options like Logitech
Excellentt1@reddit
gaming is great and you don't need to spend that much
IndicationM@reddit
depends what you need and it is a personal preference
zarco92@reddit
Personal preference. There's no such thing as a gaming keyboard btw.
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International-Elk986@reddit
Anything "gaming" is just an excuse for companies to overcharge on dumb consumers
mrpizza1party@reddit
Not true at all, in my keyboard I have Volume control, Iphone holder, calculator key, big enter key,
color coded WASD, I mean, it give you pleasure
Fast_Tennis4019@reddit
i have a bomb in my keyboard
Born_Screen_1881@reddit
do you realize there are a lot of features built into gaming keyboards that are only meant for gaming? like rapid trigger? snap tap? those are both features that are used purely for gaming, hence why something would be labeled a gaming keyboard. There are ergo keyboards, with features that are meant for better comfort. They have uses you know
ToolTimeT@reddit
You don't know what you are talking about.
BigDogyt_real@reddit
Not true you can get low latency and rapid trigger
ActInternational1487@reddit
I completely agree, just build one yourself. Here's a helpful guide: https://gamingtales.tech/custom-keyboard-under-100
lueminna@reddit
I liked this article!
ExcuseComfortable296@reddit
Tell me your broke without saying your broke.
ll-Dorvak-ll@reddit
lol, imagine posting this
zarco92@reddit
Lmao, imagine responding to a 9 months old post.
ll-Dorvak-ll@reddit
Oh in that 9 months did you realize gaming keyboards do indeed exist? My bad, I thought you might've still been an idiot. Good job bro for gaining braincells in so little time.
deeteeohbee@reddit
Have you ever heard of Google? It doesn't care how old posts are
zarco92@reddit
Are you implying that Google itself responded to a 9 month old post? Because that's not how Google works. For now.
deeteeohbee@reddit
I know you're pretending to be stupid but I'll play along. People search for topics via google and google shows them older results. Some people then feel compelled to comment. I hope this helps.
zarco92@reddit
No, that doesn't really help with the matter of why would someone reply with a snarky comment to a 9 month old post. Nor with why you would feel compelled to defend them But you've been more polite than the average redditor so I wish you have a nice day and weekend.
deeteeohbee@reddit
Hey thanks! I wish you the same :)
Raider4-@reddit
Custom actuation, rapid trigger, low latency wireless, optical switches, Hall effect switches, 60% layout for smaller footprint, lighter springs, higher polling rates, custom profiles… and of course; RGB.
These are just some features commonly found on gaming keyboards that differentiate them from other keyboards. Most, maybe not all, of these differing features would only be useful to gamers, hence why they are marketed towards gamers as gaming keyboards.
aeo1us@reddit
RGB LOL
hey-im-root@reddit
i don't see any keyboards with RGB that aren't gaming keyboards, he aint wrong
Schippers@reddit
Keychron q12
ToolTimeT@reddit
thats a mechanical customizable keyboard with macro's... thats a keyboard used by gamers.
From their website: "We design and build the best-value mechanical keyboards for creators, gamers, and officers. Keychron is by a group of keyboard enthusiasts."
Full-Reputation4222@reddit
That doesn't make a thing a "gaming keyboard". Same way sitting in a Herman Miller Aeron to play games doesn't make it a gaming chair.
ToolTimeT@reddit
You don't get invited to parties do you?
Sir_Manbeard@reddit
I would invite them to my party... Logic is king.
Afraid-Sprinkles-728@reddit
So you see that on non gaming keyboards? You're missing the whole point here apparently.
ToolTimeT@reddit
Yes there is... mechanical keyboards are designed for gamers.
Significant_Brush806@reddit
I agree completely: It's up to you. Here's a guide to help you get started: https://gamingtales.tech/custom-keyboard-under-100
ForwardMuscle9078@reddit
I agree it's all a game of Personal preference. I recommend OP to check this thread for some suggestions.
https://www.reddit.com/r/AskGamers/comments/1dwgv3l/best_gaming_keyboard_to_buy/
Electrical_Cry_9244@reddit
thanks
IntrepidText2433@reddit
When I started doing game dev and 3D work I thought a flashy gaming board with extra macro keys was the way to go, but I quickly ran into situations where I really missed my numpad for entering precise values.
MoustacheDr@reddit
I started out on a full‑size gaming board with a numpad because I thought I’d need those keys for 3D work, but I barely ever used them and the extra width just ate up my desk space.
Last-Attempt-217@reddit
I dabble in both game dev and 3D work and I went with a mechanical gaming board that has a full numpad.
Fragrant-Read-7688@reddit
I bought a gaming keyboard that has a full numpad and it’s been great for both modeling and coding.
FatFufa@reddit
I jumped between a compact tenkeyless gaming board and a full office layout when I was deep into Blender, and I ended up sticking with the full-sized mechanical keyboard that had the numpad.
SourSugarcane@reddit
I went with a full-size mechanical board that’s marketed as a gaming keyboard, and it’s been perfect for both coding and modeling.
SolidMBA@reddit
I’d go with a full-sized office keyboard with a numpad, especially for 3D work.
Fragrant-Read-7688@reddit
I do a mix of dev work and 3D modeling, and honestly, I couldn’t do without a full-size board with a numpad.
TomorrowOk3803@reddit
When I first dove into 3D modeling and coding I grabbed a compact gaming board for the RGB perks but kept missing the numpad when I had to enter a bunch of coordinates.
SadTrillionaire@reddit
I ended up going with a mechanical full-size board and it’s been great for both my coding and any 3D work where I need that numpad for precise inputs.
DeadlyJitter@reddit
I switched from a plain office board to a mechanical gaming keyboard when I started dabbling in 3D work and coding, and I liked having the numpad for entering precise values in Blender.
867stevo@reddit
I started out on a quiet office membrane board with a numpad but switched to a mechanical gaming keyboard once I got into Unity and Blender.
Mtwat@reddit
I switched to a full-sized mechanical keyboard with a numpad when I got into game dev and 3D work, and it’s been miles more practical.
h0tb0x76@reddit
Numpad is good if you are going to be a developer. You will be inputting number strings quite often, and copy paste is not always the fastest, or available, in all situations.
If you can type on the numpad without looking, it is quite useful.
Otherwise though, it’s just too dang big
Riki_was_here@reddit
I work as developer for 15 years and I never needed numpad. You know why? It's not ergonomic. Your have to move with you palm to reach numpad. And also no, you won't be inputting numbers quite often. Maybe as accountant you would
CaptainSwinky@reddit
I picked up a mechanical gaming keyboard when I started dabbling in game jams and 3D work, and I loved the tactile feedback and programmable keys for shortcuts.
Anypirate@reddit
I picked up a tenkeyless mech with clicky switches at first because the RGB looked cool but hated how I kept reaching for a separate numpad whenever I had to tweak values in Blender or Unity.
marianoponceiii@reddit
Honestly, it really comes down to what you’re comfortable with but for the kind of stuff you’re doing, I wouldn’t recommend a regular keyboard. It’s just way more convenient if your keyboard has those extra features. Gaming keyboards are generally just faster and more responsive, and what I find super handy is being able to program shortcuts. Saves a ton of time, especially when you’re dealing with repetitive tasks which you definitely will in game dev and 3D work.
Klim makes some really good gaming keyboards that have all those added features and the light aesthetics too if you're into that. Plus, they’re pretty affordable and hold up well, so definitely worth it in my opinion.
JollySimple188@reddit
A gaming keyboard makes more sense than a regular office one. They’re built to be faster and more responsive, which helps when you’re switching between tasks like coding, testing, or moving around in 3D space. Smth like the SteelSeries one is a solid choice since it lets you adjust how sensitive the keys are, so you can like fine tune it for how you work. It’s compact, which saves desk space and gives you more room for mouse movement (useful in modeling). You don’t get a numpad, but like u can add one later if you feel like you need it . Overall, gaming keyboards jus give more control and flexibility for creative work.
DeadlyJitter@reddit
I started out on a tenkeyless gaming board because I loved the clicky switches for coding, but once I dove into Blender and Maya the missing numpad became a real pain with all the sculpt and transform shortcuts.
DizzyTurtlle@reddit
This is a highly subjective matter, you'll be getting tens of different answers.
I'd suggest to not spend a lot of money on a keyboard though. I've used both more expensive and cheaper keyboards and the price differences are huge, while the differences in quality are often minimal. Just get something popular and moderately priced. Keychron K2 is a very good option in a normal price range, I'd go with something like that. Redragon and logitech are even cheaper, and still not bad.
AndrewLAFan14@reddit
SteelSeries Apex Pro (Gen 3) is hands down my favorite gaming keyboard. The Hall Effect switches are incredibly smooth and customizable, allowing you to set the actuation point from 0.1mm to 4.0mm. It's perfect for competitive gaming and everyday typing.
Randomjax@reddit
I went with a full‑size mechanical gaming keyboard so I didn’t have to give up the numpad or programmable keys.
infinnitech@reddit
I tried a basic office keyboard with numpad first and the rubber‑dome keys felt mushy in long Blender sessions.
Mtwat@reddit
I started out on a tenkeyless gaming board and kept fumbling for a separate numpad in Blender, so I switched to a full‑sized mechanical keyboard with Cherry Brown switches and never looked back.
DizzyTurtlle@reddit
This is a highly subjective matter, you'll be getting tens of different answers.
I'd suggest to not spend a lot of money on a keyboard though. I've used both more expensive and cheaper keyboards and the price differences are huge, while the differences in quality are often minimal. Just get something popular and moderately priced. Keychron K2 is a very good option in a normal price range, I'd go with something like that. Redragon and logitech are even cheaper, and still not bad.
FluffehCorgi@reddit
I swapped between a basic office board and a mechanical gaming keyboard. Ultimately I chose a gaming board with a numpad.
PhtmBolt@reddit
I went with a gaming keyboard for my projects because its responsive keys and customizable functions really matched my workflow in game development and 3D modeling.
barrybulsara@reddit
Beep boop, this "user" posts AI generated comments in very old posts. It is very interested in endorsing products and services.
alisalisa514@reddit
I’ve tried both types, and I lean toward a full office keyboard with a numpad for my work.
Elegant_Extreme_6048@reddit
get one with magnetic switches/hall effect. They don’t wear out, you can change how sensitive the keys are, and they’re perfect for fast typing or gaming. Trust me
infinnitech@reddit
I’ve used both a gaming keyboard and a full-sized office keyboard with a numpad while working on game development and 3D modeling.
AdarshIsHim@reddit
I would suggest the slyloong gk 104 pro
DeadlyJitter@reddit
I experimented with both types while working on game development and 3D modeling.
ReasonableHelmet@reddit
That's personal preference
FluffehCorgi@reddit
I’ve used both types, and for my game development and 3D modeling work, I lean towards a full office keyboard with a numpad.
StatusBubble@reddit
It's a personal preference, I'd recommend Razer, Logitech and Aula
SpookyScaryClown@reddit
I would go with a gaming keyboard. Just better performance all around.
PopularNot@reddit
I've always liked Razer and Logitech
Tiny_Form_7220@reddit
I look for functionality in keyboards. My preference is the Dell SK-8135 Keyboard for four reasons:
1: Cheap on eBay (about $20).
2: It has a volume knob. Handier than hell when youutube video is unexpectedly LOUD, or a different one is very soft. A volume knob is HANDY.
3: It has two USB ports on the keyboard case - handier than hell to plug in a mouse or a thumb drive.
4: it's pretty fluid resistant. I've tipped over my water bottle a couple fo times and had a heavy splah go across the keyboard. I've unplugged the keyboard, blotted the water up, and left teh leyboard upside down over a towel overnight. It's survived.
Mike
Phi1adendron@reddit
I love gaming ones but you don't need them
Local-Bunch-257@reddit
Since you're into game development and 3D modeling, I'd recommend going for a full office keyboard with a numpad, especially if you do a lot of work involving coding or calculations. A numpad can be really handy for things like shortcuts, navigation, and even quickly entering numbers.
Repulsive_Step716@reddit
Since you’re into game development and 3D modeling, I think a regular full-sized keyboard with a numpad would be the best choice. For programming and 3D modeling, having that numpad can actually be pretty handy for certain tasks, like quickly entering numbers or navigating through software.
Local-Bunch-257@reddit
If you’re mainly focusing on game development and 3D modeling, I’d lean towards a full office keyboard with a numpad. A regular keyboard tends to give you more key space and a more comfortable typing experience for long coding sessions. It’s great if you need a numpad for things like number crunching or shortcuts in 3D modeling software.
No-Application-9365@reddit
I’d go with a full-sized keyboard with a numpad if you’re diving into game development and 3D modeling. While gaming keyboards are often marketed as superior because of their flashy features and mechanical switches, the numpad is a game-changer when it comes to productivity tasks like modeling, coding, or even just inputting numerical values efficiently.
Character_Leather659@reddit
I’ve tried both types of keyboards. For me, having a full-sized keyboard with a numpad is a must. When you’re working in 3D modeling software like Blender or Maya, the numpad shortcuts are a lifesaver. They make navigation and switching views so much faster, and not having it feels like a huge handicap.
Weird_Evening_50@reddit
I’ve used both gaming and full-sized office keyboards, and I’d say it really depends on what you’re prioritizing. For me, when I was doing 3D modeling, I preferred a regular full-sized keyboard with a numpad. I found that having the numpad made it easier to input numbers and shortcuts, which helped speed up my workflow.
A gaming keyboard is definitely cool if you want that tactile feel and extra customization with the keys, but I didn’t find it necessary for what I was doing. Plus, I think the mechanical switches in gaming keyboards can sometimes be a bit loud if you're working in a quiet space, whereas the office keyboards tend to be quieter and less distracting.
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Reviile@reddit
After spending hundreds on gaming/mechanical/custom keyboards I moved onto the MX Keys.
It’s a Logitech wireless low profile keyboard that I use for hours now that I work from home. By far the nicest & easiest typing experience I’ve had. It is not good for gaming though. When I launch a game I plug in my mechanical to do the job.
razor01707@reddit
Bought a mech, realized it is a nope for me. I've come to the same conclusion that for typing, chiclet style keyboards are better in virtually every way possible. Faster typing speed for me, higher accuracy, less key travel (and as a side effect of the key profiles, no gunk under keycaps), not to mention them being usually lighter and more portable.
The resurgence is kinda surprising but I think many might go for it due to aesthetics and level of customizability that the platform offers.
It is a unique typing experience as well so there's that I guess.
Not completely writing them off but if you want to use your keyboard purely as a tool, don't bother spending too much time getting neck deep into the rabbit hole because it does go really deep. I dipped my toes a couple years back.
MX Keys has been the go to recommendation for work ever since it released and for good reason. Logitech is an established brand so there's that factor.
DartosMus@reddit
What mechanical keyboard do you plug in for gaming?
Housedodo@reddit
I’m also learning game development and 3D modeling, and I’ve been using a full-sized keyboard with a numpad. For me, the numpad is super useful, especially when working with modeling software like Blender or Maya. A lot of shortcuts in these programs are tied to the numpad (like navigating different views), and not having one feels like you’re missing out on a chunk of functionality..
ilpalazzo64@reddit
For gaming, a gaming keyboard could definitely be a good choice. They often come with features like customizable keys, faster response times, and sometimes better ergonomics. If you plan to do a lot of gaming in your downtime or want some of those extra functions like macro keys for certain game actions or shortcuts, a gaming keyboard could enhance your experience. The RGB lighting and the tactile feel of the switches (like mechanical ones) can also be satisfying when you're gaming..
OkAcanthocephala7291@reddit
Ok so I bought a keyboard and some keys didn’t work not a good brand I’m returning, what’s a good keyboard brand that’s someone’s got off Amazon that’s good and worked that I should buy ?
Short_Grass7099@reddit
Have you decided on a keyboard yet? I'm considering this gaming keyboard for a similar setup.
SprinklesCritical434@reddit
This solves ALL my questions. Thanks y'all!
EchoJoelle@reddit
I’d say try a good office keyboard first (maybe something like a Logitech MX Keys or a Keychron K4), and then see if the gaming features are something you'd enjoy for the long haul. You don’t need to overcomplicate it, just get what feels right for your typing habits and workflow.
Sad_Self4804@reddit
a regular full-size keyboard is probably a more practical and comfortable choice. But if you want a hybrid that gives you some gaming features without going all in, something like a mechanical keyboard with programmable keys might hit the sweet spot.
Malani-Dazzle@reddit
I went with a full-sized keyboard because it gives me that solid all-around functionality, but if you're someone who loves the feel of mechanical switches or might dabble in gaming more seriously on the side, you might lean towards a gaming keyboard.
BattleOk7303@reddit
Other comments say personal preference...I'd say yes and no. I've been in a similar spot, and here’s my suggestion.
The Logitech G Pro X TKL is the one I got and I couldn't imagine a. better keyboard. I use it for gaming and working.
It’s wireless, so you get a cleaner setup, and the keys are smooth for game development and 3D modeling (keys are programmable too).
I like the compact design, as it saves desk space. It’s a reliable, versatile option that balances work and play perfectly. Love mine
Time-Stay-1338@reddit
I personally went with a regular full-sized keyboard with a numpad when I started. I found that it felt more natural to me, especially for things like 3D modeling where shortcuts and numerical inputs are pretty common. The numpad made certain functions quicker, especially when working with coordinates or manipulating models in 3D software.
WinterYogurtcloset61@reddit
I’ve used Corsair K70 RGB and Logitech G Pro X, and both are amazing for gaming. The K70 is super responsive, has great mechanical switches (Cherry MX), and the RGB lighting makes it look awesome. It’s also got programmable macro keys, which is a bonus if you’re playing games that require a lot of different inputs.
FluffySheepCritic@reddit
It's entirely subjective, but if you ask me I'd say full-size mechanical with brown switches, preferably with additional macro keys and a rotary encoder.
Smakovich@reddit
Had to google what a rotary encoder was, if you don't mind me asking what do you use that for?
FluffySheepCritic@reddit
Volume control mainly, but I also do digital art and some video editing, so it would be applied in different ways depending what I'm working on.
Examples would be rotating the canvas in photoshop or clip studio, or time controlling a video clip in Premier.
NoCategoryYT@reddit
Do you mind me asking what keyboard you have? Or just how do you program the knob? I’d ideally want mine to scrub the timeline!!! Probably my biggest time consumer when video editing.
nivcauwe91@reddit
Which one would you recommend?
danielnicee@reddit
If you ask me, 75% mechanical keyboard. Forget "gaming" here, that's just marketing.
I'm currently rocking the Royal Kludge R75, and it's literal perfection for very, very cheap. I don't think there's anything better that doesn't cost 3-4x more.
Tall-Airport7106@reddit
Same here and agreed
Oter1972@reddit
Honestly, it really depends on what you're prioritizing for your game development and 3D modeling work. Gaming keyboards often come with customizable keys, RGB lighting, and faster response times, which can be super fun and might even enhance your experience while working on games. But if you're doing a lot of typing or number crunching with 3D modeling software, you might find a full-sized keyboard with a numpad more beneficial for efficiency and comfort. Personally, I found that having a quality mechanical keyboard, which combines some gaming features with a solid typing experience, can be the best of both worlds. You should definitely consider checking them out here. Whichever keyboard you choose, make sure it feels good for you!
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KittenDecomposer96@reddit
Go for the SteelSeries Gaming Keyboard, best gaming keyboard out there hands down. It’s so stupidly fast. It has 40 levels of per-key actuation, so you can set it up for quick movements or deeper presses for more control. The 2-in-1 action keys are also a nice touch, lets you program different functions to the same key. The RGB lighting is super vibrant, and the compact design makes it easy to fit on your desk without crowding your mouse space. The only downside might be finding the right switches for your preference, but overall, it’s a high-quality keyboard that delivers great performance!
CorrectGrammarPls@reddit
sponsored comment btw
ConflictInternal6425@reddit
no difference
Sufficient_Pea7175@reddit
From my own experience, I'd suggest you go for a gaming keyboard, especially when you're into game development and 3D modeling. Gaming keyboards are designed with features and functionalities to enhance gameplay experience which could be useful for your specific needs. They are generally more durable, offer n-key rollover, and have some programmable keys. And no worries about numpad, there are plenty of gaming keyboards that come with a full size layout including a numpad. Actually, this keyboard I've been using lately is absolutely fantastic for gaming as well as non-gaming tasks. It's much more substantial and comfortable for prolonged use. Just thought you might find it worth considering!