All of the clack with none of the cable
Updated: Jan 12, 2023 4:26 pm
We’ve tested some of the best mechanical keyboards here at WePC, and we love the enhanced tactility, sound, and overall feeling. most of the keyboards we use in the office are mechanical and many of us have one at home. Even though they’re generally more expensive than their membrane counterparts, the tactility, build quality, and overall typing/gaming experience makes it more than worth it for us.
However, in this day and age, the idea of tethering the keyboard to the PC with a cable is a parochial, almost archaic concept. Luckily, the increases in efficiency, efficacy, and reliability of both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless communication protocols mean that noticeable latency for wireless gaming mice, headsets, and of course keyboards is a thing of the past. So, with that in mind let’s have a look at the best wireless mechanical keyboards of 2023, and think about what must be considered before pressing that all-too-tempting ‘buy’ button.
01
The best of the best
Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed
02
The best 65% wireless mechanical keyboard
Keychron K6 68 Key Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
03
The best budget wireless mechanical keyboard
Logitech G613 Lightspeed Wireless Mechanical keyboard
How we test
IF we are able to get our hands on the products, we spend a few days using them in the office for general use, gaming, and everything in between. Occasionally we’ll also steal them away back home to see how they integrate into a more realistic pre-existing setup, instead of the more clinical office conditions.
After this, we do various objective tests to see how they stack up against the competition, all while considering the price to certain how good of a value for money proposition the wireless mechanical gaming keyboard is overall. We then take a day to write up a full review so you know what you’re getting for your money and whether you should consider getting the product in question in the first place.
Things to consider
Given that it’s easy to spend upwards of ~$200 on a wireless mechanical gaming keyboard, you’ve got to be sure you’re throwing your money to the right company. Additionally, you’ve got to consider what features you need for your specific use case, things like form-factor, layout, switches, and keycaps all matter here. So we’re going to cover each of these aspects for you below before getting to the reviews, so you can consider the right considerations before picking your pick.
Form factor
this is often confused with layout, but they are distinctly different aspects of keyboard design. Form factor referees to the size and amount of keys the keyboard has. They are typically split into four main sizes:
- Full-sized: The classic keyboard size. It comes with the full row of function keys and a Numpad
- TKL or tenkeyless. Identical to full-size, sans numpad.
- 65%. This is one of the form factors currently gaining a lot of traction as numpads begin to go out of style. This form factor removes the numpad, and squeezes everything together, often compressing the arrow keys to avoid wasting space. Additionally, sometimes the Function keys are present, and sometimes they are not, you’ll have to make sure to check on a board-by-board basis for this one.
- 60%. This is the most compact of the mainstream form factors. No numpad, no arrow keys, no function row. Just the absolute essentials to actually use a computer. These are often preferred by gamers as you lose no gaming functionality, but gain a large amount of additional desk space.
If this is hard to visualize, worry not, we’ve created an infographic that shows the sizes relative to each other. You can view this right below.
Layout
this determines the shape of certain keys and the default bindings of some of them, like the ‘@‘ key and the ‘£‘ key. There are a few different region-specific layouts, but the two you need to worry about are ANSI vs ISO. ISO is the standard for the United Kingdom and most of Europe, whereas ANSI is what you’ll find in the Americas. To find out which one you’re using have a look at the infographic below.
The choice is mostly personal preference as you’ll probably be most comfortable with the layout you’ve grown up with. However, we strongly recommend going for an ANSI layout as there are far more options in terms of keycaps as it’s more widely used. Speaking of keycaps…
Keycaps: PBT vs ABS
PBT and ABS refer to the type of plastic used for the keycaps and they have very different physical characteristics that are easily noticeable. Overall, we prefer PBT plastic as it lasts longer without fading and the material has a more pleasant texture to it. We’ve written a full PBT vs ABS guide for you if you’re curious to know the specifics.
Switches
You’re going to have a preference when it comes to switches. Everybody does – it’s that innate feeling that one particular type of switch feels ‘right.’ While it’s probably not worth abandoning an otherwise perfect keyboard for, if you can find the wireless mechanical keyboard of your dreams, check to make sure it’s available with the kind of switch response you’re looking for.
All about the click? Then blue style switches are your bag. Value the tactility of a blue-style switch but also value the idea of not enraging coworkers, roommates, or significant others? The brown-style switch stays relatively silent but has a nice bump. Pro gamers will want to stick with red-style switches as they have the lowest actuation force of the bunch, and no bump, this allows them, to reach the actuation point, and reset, all far quicker than these types of switches.
Cherry MX is the company most people are familiar with, and, although they aren’t the be-all and end-all, they are a great place to familiarize yourself with the characteristics of each switch type. We’ve listed the specs alongside some visuals below so you can get an idea of it. Note that these are very generalized designs, and as you delve into the world of mechanical keyboards, you’ll find limitless variations of the default designs from Cherry MX. IF you’re after a full rundown, we’ve written some vs pages about the different types of switch you can read below.
Blue-style switches
This gif shows the travel of the Cherry MX Blue switch. You can see the build-up of pressure needed for the slider to overcome the tension on the leaf and slam down to the bottom of the housing, this is also the point at which the keystroke is registered. You can see the ridge on the side of the slider that creates extra resistance.
Cherry MX Blue specs
- Actuation force: 60cN
- Pre-travel: 2.2mm
- Total travel: 4.0mm
Brown-style switches
here we see the brown switch’s operation. Note the similar bump to the blue-style switch, however, the slider is fixed as with the red style. This prevents the clicking sound. They have a higher actuation force than reds, but less than blues, making them an ideal middle ground.
Cherry MX Red specs
- Actuation force: 55cN
- Pre-travel: 2.0mm
- Total travel: 4.0mm
Red-style switches
here we see how the MX Red switch operates, you can see here the linear and smooth movement of the stem. Note the absence of the ridge on the slider that was present on the Blue switch, the smooth angle instead of the ridge means the press feels the same through the whole keystroke. This is what we mean when we describe ‘linear switches’
Cherry MX Red specs
- Actuation force: 45cN
- Pre-travel: 2.0mm
- Total travel: 4.0mm
Wireless keyboards connectivity: Bluetooth or 2.4GHz
Both of these offer imperceivable levels of latency, so in terms of response times, it doesn’t matter. However, if you want to use the keyboard with devices other than your PC, Bluetooth is the way to go as it’s far more commonly integrated into various devices. For ease of use with a PC, 2.4GHz is better as the included dongle makes setup far easier than pairing a Bluetooth keyboard.
Software
These days, it’s practically impossible to buy a peripheral without having to download the accompanying software package. If you buy a Razer gaming mouse, you need Synapse 3, if you buy a Corsair gaming keyboard, you need iCue, an Asus ROG headset? You’re going to need Armory Crate.
These software packages can be annoying as they typically eat a lot of RAM, and are often poorly optimized. It shouldn’t be a deal-breaker over the quality of the keyboard itself, but it’s worth some consideration as you’ll need it to mess with macros, lighting, or other fun settings.
It’s worth noting here that not all these picks have software packages, for example, Keychron keyboards don’t have their own software, with everything controllable via macros. Difficult to remember macros, granted, but macros nonetheless.
The best mechanical wireless gaming keyboards
So, with the considerations considered, let’s have a look at the best of the best for 2023.
Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed
Pros
-
Lightspeed wireless connectivity reduces screen latency -
Dedicated media controls -
Extremely long battery life between charges
The G915 is built on a Tenkeyless form factor. With a body made of aircraft-grade aluminum and low-profile switches, it combines strength and robustness with a lightness that allows you to carry it to any gaming location you like with ease.
The G915 brings ‘Lightspeed’ wireless connectivity to your gaming party too, so you’re not dragging yards of cords with you. And with a between-charge life of around 40 hours with its RGB lighting on, there’s every chance you’ll need recharging long before your G915.
With Lightspeed comes Lightsync, which lets you personalize each key on the G915, and you create custom animations in anything up to 16.8 million colors – so that should keep you occupied and give you a gaming edge.
In terms of switches, you have three main options: GL Clicky, GL Tactile, and GL Linear. For hardcore gaming, we’d suggest going with GL Tactile, because you get more physical certainty in response to your key-presses. If you’re gaming in extra-noisy environments, the GL Clicky’s a viable option too, so you can get an audio response to your actions.
The G915 gives you complete control over your media through dedicated media keys and an edgeless volume wheel – so you can play, pause, change the volume, skip, or mute easily and unobtrusively.
You can connect the G915 to several devices using either Lightspeed or Bluetooth. In fact, you can toggle between the two easily, to ensure you get the best connection.
Granted, this is a flat keyboard, with no ergonomics in evidence. But all around, the G915 combines durability, style, and high-tech to become our top pick for the best wireless mechanical keyboard.
Shurikey Gear Hanzo EC V2 001 Mechanical Keyboard
Varmilo EC V2. Choice of Ivy, Sakura, Rose, or Daisy
Pros
-
Satisfying Key Switch feel -
Impressively sturdy construction -
Responsive gaming performance -
Effortless setup process
Cons
-
Adjustability is limited -
Included USB Type-C cable feels cheap
When the Shurikey Hanzo EC001 first landed in the WePC office, we were immediately struck by its visuals. The color scheme evokes a retro, slightly industrial vibe and we loved it so much that it remains the best-looking keyboard we’ve seen in the years since.
Other than the visuals, we were impressed with the build quality, clicky Ivy switches, and keycaps. Weirdly enough the keycaps are of the inferior ABS kind, but they are double-shot so they feel pretty good in spite of the cheaper material. However, the most interesting aspect of this keyboard is the technology utilized by the switches.
Electrocapacitive switches work via measuring the voltage across two metal plates, as they approach each other during the keystroke, the voltage grows until it hits a pre-determined threshold and the keystroke is registered. This means the plates never actually make constant as they do in a traditional mechanical key switch, this in turn vastly increases the lifespan of the switch as there is little-to-no overall wear and tear. However, the distinct mechanical key switch feeling remains unaffected.
You can read our full Shurikey Gear Hanzo EC V2 001 Mechanical Keyboard Review for more details about this interesting switch technology and a more comprehensive look at this keyboard overall.
ROG Strix Scope NX Wireless Deluxe mechanical keyboard
Pros
-
Strong construction -
Excellent RGB lighting -
The design of the aluminum top plate is great -
Dedicated media keys
Cons
-
Expensive -
Poor quality keycaps
This is currently one of the top-tier offerings from Asus ROG’s keyboard lineup, not only is it built like a tank, fully equipped with RGB lighting, and furnished with full media keys, but it has the option of going with Asus ROG’s very own NX switches. Additionally, you can go with Cherry MX switches if you’re old-school.
It boasts an unapologetically gamer-y design, with the classic ROG eye logo front and center on the board and the included wrist rest. The aggressive design is then subdued slightly with an industrial brushed aluminum top plate that both looks great and serves to reinforce the construction of the keyboard which prevents deck flex and helps keep the board planted, even in the midst of virtual battles.
Not only is the Strix Scope wireless, but it features tri-mode connectivity. This means you can effortlessly switch between wired, 2.4GHz, and Bluetooth connections on the fly, so you can be in control of three devices simultaneously. If that’s a use case that applies to you this is a fantastic board as it’s full-sized too, meaning that you have no limitations with a Numpad and a full row of function keys.
Keychron K6 68 Key Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Wireless and Wired Dual Modes
4000mAh, lasts up to 72 hours
Pros
-
Macro-programmable -
Awesome battery life, even with RGBs turned on -
Customizable RGB backlighting -
Optical Brown MX switches -
Available with any other switch color -
Wireless connection to 3 devices (6KRO) -
USB-C connectivity (NKRO) -
Space-kind 65% footprint -
Amazing price -
Super-low latency
Cons
-
Only fully compatible with Windows -
ABS keycaps feel a little cheap -
Only two angle adjustments
The Keychron K6 aims to give you the best of both worlds. It’s a 60% keyboard, but with the dedicated arrow keys and some navigation keys added back in, so it’s a 65% form factor, built on an aluminum frame.
Half the fun of the Keychron is in key-swapping – you can customize the meaning of keys on the Keychron to your heart’s delight. At the time of writing, there’s a companion app coming to make this a whole lot easier. By the time you read it, the app may be on its fifth iteration.
Even without the app, though, the K6 gives you plenty of options to mix and match actions, deliver single-key flurries, and control your media through some dedicated media buttons.
The K6 gives you options between Gateron (Red, Blue, or Brown for quiet, clicky, or gentle responses respectively) or LK optical switches, which promise lower latency and are also available in Red, Blue, or Brown variants.
The RGB backlighting here is part of the programmability, and the keyboard’s battery life between charges is joyful, bordering on the ridiculous, at 72 hours with static RGB on.
You can use the Broadcom Bluetooth on board the K6 to connect to up to 3 devices at a time, and it will also let you use it wired via USB-C if you prefer.
When it’s being used in wired mode, the K6 delivers full NKRO, while when used wirelessly, you’re still looking at 6KRO – which with the programmable keyboard, should be enough to ensure you don’t get your spells caught in your key-smash.
The Keychron K6 gives you a lot for your wireless mechanical keyboard money, outlasts and outplays most of the rest of the boards on our list, brings a combination of lightness and strength to your gaming, and gives you programmable RGB and at least 6KRO. This is not a mechanical keyboard to overlook in your consideration.
Logitech G613 Lightspeed Wireless Mechanical keyboard
Multimedia keys, Macro keys, programmable G keys, lightspeed wireless
Pros
-
LIGHTSPEED wireless technology -
Excellent battery life -
Classy and subtle design -
Very responsive key actuation
Cons
-
Not overly gamer oriented
The Logitech G613 brings you plenty of Logitech know-how in a Full-size keyboard. It comes with Lightspeed wireless connectivity, which reduces latency in your key presses. What pushes the G613 down our list is a couple of things it either doesn’t have. You can reprogram some keys here, sure – but only 6 of them. The G613 also comes with just one choice of switch – the Romer-G switch. In all fairness, it’s a light and tactile switch, but still, the lack of options feels odd.
And perhaps most controversially of all, this is the only keyboard to make it onto our list that has no RGB backlighting. As omissions go, that’s a pretty serious one on a gaming mechanical keyboard.
If it lacks RGB backlighting though, it does bring some dedicated media controls to your gaming party, and – unlike several other keyboards, it does address the need for ergonomic support with a built-in wrist rest.
How much gaming are you getting between charges of the G613? Logitech says you’ll get 18 months of regular use out of it on two AA batteries. Which sounds impressive, but is probably a factor of not being lit up like a programmable Christmas tree at any point during that period.
Related keyboard pages
Overcome with curiosity about other key board areas? Keep combing through keyboard content with our related pages below.
Final Word
Wireless mechanical keyboards have lots to recommend them. Their variety in form factor gives gamers a range of options to suit their gaming lives. The variety of switches you can use with them gives gamers the response which feels most natural to them. And their programmable keys and RGB backlighting (usually) mean gamers can use them as a strategic weapon to get an extra edge when it comes to whatever adventure they’re on.
We’ve spanned the range available from 60% keyboards to Full-size models – there’s something on this list for every kind of gamer. All you need to do now is decide which kind you are, and pick up the keyboard that matches your personality and playing style.
