7 Best Gaming Keyboards with Macros in 2023 [First-Hand Tested!]

Discover 7 top gaming keyboards with macro features, learn about the macro key rules in e-sports, and understand what to look for when shopping for macro gaming keyboard.

Executing complex in-game movements in the heat of a battle can be downright frustrating. Your nerves start to creep in, you begin to panic, and the ensuing rush of adrenaline makes performing complex actions and pressing key sequences a real challenge. 

What you need is a ‘shortcut’ in the guise of a gaming keyboard with macro keys!

In this blog, we’ll cover the top gaming keyboards with macro keys to help you take your gaming to the next level. We’ll also talk about the pros and cons of macro keyboards, their acceptability in gaming tournaments, and whether they are any better than stand-alone macro pads. Finally, we’ll briefly discuss what to look for when choosing a macro keyboard for gaming. 

So, without any further ado, let’s jump straight in:

Top 7 Gaming Keyboards with Programmable Keys – At a Glance!

  1. Corsair K100: Our favorite gaming keyboard with programmable keys thanks to its superb build quality, user-friendliness, and refined iCUE software.
  2. HyperX Alloy Origins Core: The best budget macro gaming keyboard that checks many boxes for its price.
  3. Logitech G915 LightSpeed TKL: The best tenkeyless gaming keyboard with macro support that comes with LightSpeed wireless technology.
  4. Razer Huntsman V2: The fastest gaming keyboard featuring Razer’s iconic optical switches.
  5. Ducky One 2 Mini: The ideal choice for Linux gamers looking for a software-agnostic programmable keyboard with macros. 
  6. Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro: The best RGB gaming keyboard with macro support with 38 individual underglow RGB zones and support for Razer Synapse. 
  7. SteelSeries Apex 3: The best membrane keyboard with macros that requires zero maintenance and offers IP32 dust and water resistance. 

Finding the Best Gaming Keyboards for Macros: Research and Testing Methodology

For this review, we started our research by scouring mechanical keyboards with macro keys Reddit threads to familiarize ourselves with the most popular macro keyboards available. We particularly focused on keyboard-centric subreddits – notably r/MechanicalKeyboards, r/Keyboards, and r/BuildaPC – for firsthand insights from keyboard enthusiasts and gamers. Additionally, we tapped into the expertise of our in-house team as well.

After thorough consideration and research, we picked 14 keyboards with macro functionality with the most solid set of recommendations. 

Next, we subjected these keyboards to several tests in our in-house test lab. We tested and analyzed them based on their ease of programming, typing noise, click tactility, keycap smoothness, overall typing experience, and actuation force and pre-travel distance ratings.

Following an extensive testing period spanning over 100 hours, we shortlisted the top 7 macro gaming keyboards in different categories. 

So, what is the best gaming keyboard with dedicated macro keys overall? 

1. Corsair K100 – Best Gaming Keyboard with Macro Keys Overall

Corsair K100 is the ultimate keyboard for gamers looking for a capable, highly versatile wired gaming keyboard with robust macro key support. However, as you will soon discover, the K100 is not just about macro keys; it is a complete package. But first, let’s begin with the specs.

The Corsair K100 is a full-sized keyboard with the standard 104 keys layout. It’s the largest keyboard on our list at 18.5 x 6.5 x 1.4 inches. Unsurprisingly, the weight of the keyboard is also the heaviest at 2.88 lbs. The reason behind this heft is its exceptional build quality. 

The whole body of the Corsair K100 is crafted from a thick aluminum sheet, giving it a premium and durable feel. The use of high-gauge aluminum further prevents the keyboard from sounding hollow while typing. The keycaps are also made of high-end PBT material.

For input, the Corsair K100 is available with Cherry MX Speed (Silver), OPX Optical, and Cherry MX Ultra Low Profile switches. We highly recommend going for the MX Speed Silver switches. They are a more refined version of their Cherry MX Mechanical Red counterparts, featuring a shorter pre-travel distance of only 1.2mm and no tactile bump in the key travel.

Being a keyboard with lots of macro keys, the Corsair K100 has a column of six macro keys on the left side. While gaming, you can easily reach these keys with your left pinky and assign any function or macro to them via Corsair’s iCUE software. Additionally, there’s an iCUE wheel at the upper left side of the keyboard, which is also fully programmable. 

Overall, we were impressed by the Corsair K100’s build quality and the ease with which you can assign macros to any key on the keyboard, thanks to the user-friendly and well-refined iCUE software. 

The only drawback of the Corsair K100 is its price, but if it fits within your budget, you’ll have a hard time finding a better option.

9.2
Corsair K100 RGB Optical-Mechanical Wired Gaming Keyboard
  • The CORSAIR K100 RGB is the pinnacle of CORSAIR keyboards, offering the cutting-edge performance, style, durability, and customization that gamers need to stand above the rest..Keyboard Cable Material: Braided
  • The centerpiece of your gaming setup, the CORSAIR K100 RGB boasts a refined design bolstered by a durable aluminum frame, dynamic per-key RGB backlighting, and a 44-zone three-sided LightEdge.
  • Powered by CORSAIR AXON Hyper-Processing Technology, enabling CORSAIR’s most advanced gaming keyboard experience by delivering up to 4x faster throughput with native 4,000Hz hyper-polling and 4,000Hz key scanning, while simultaneously driving up to 20-layer lighting effects.
  • A programmable iCUE control wheel gives you command over backlighting, media jogging, and more through CORSAIR iCUE software, customizable to perform actions in games and applications.

2. HyperX Alloy Origins Core – Budget Pick for Macro-Loving Gamers

The HyperX Alloy Origins Core is the best option for gamers on a tight budget looking for a capable, versatile gaming keyboard with robust macro key software.

Being a full-sized keyboard, the HyperX Alloy Origins Core has all standard 104 keys available. Despite that, it’s relatively compact compared to most full-sized keyboards, measuring just 17.4 x 5.2 x 1.4 inches. That’s an easy fit on most desks without taking up too much space. However, it’s still a little bit on the heavier side at 2.43 lbs. 

Despite its budget-friendly price tag, the HyperX Alloy Origins Core chassis is made of aircraft aluminum, explaining its heft. Another surprising aspect was the keycaps, which are made from PBT instead of the more common ABS found on low-end mechanical keyboards. Overall, the build quality of the keyboard is exceptional, given its price.

When it comes to the switch options, the HyperX Alloy Origins Core has all three bases covered, with the keyboard available in HyperX Red (Linear), Aqua (Tactile), and Blue (Clicky) switches. We recommend the HyperX Red switches for gamers. These come with an actuation force of 45g and a pre-travel distance of 1.8mm. That’s about 0.2mm shorter than the standard Cherry MX Red switches. 

Being a budget-oriented keyboard, the HyperX Alloy Origins Core lacks dedicated macro keys, which is to be expected given its price. However, that’s not a big issue as the keyboard has a full 100% layout with a row of 12 function keys at the top. These can be fully customized and assigned with any macro you desire via HyperX Ngenuity Software. 

Speaking of Ngenuity, we found the software quite easy to use, a big plus in our book. 

Overall, the HyperX Alloy Origins Core manages to check a lot of boxes without breaking the bank, which, in itself, is a remarkable feat. The chassis is made of aircraft-grade aluminum, the keycaps are made of premium PBT material, and the HyperX Red switches are a joy to type on and are great for gaming. The only notable downside is the lack of dedicated macro keys, but on a full-sized keyboard with plenty of extra keys, that’s not a big issue.

9.4
HyperX Alloy Origins - Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
  • HyperX Mechanical Switches rated for 80 million keystrokes
  • Full aircraft-grade aluminum body
  • Compact, portable design with detachable cable
  • Dazzling RGB lighting with dynamic effects
  • Advanced customization with HyperX NGENUITY software
  • 3 adjustable keyboard angles
  • Onboard memory for 3 profiles
  • Game Mode, 100% anti-ghosting, and N-key rollover functionalities

3. Logitech G915 LightSpeed – TKL Gaming Keyboard with Programmable Macro Keys

The Logitech G915 LightSpeed is a wireless keyboard with macro keys perfect for gamers looking for a compact tenkeyless keyboard.

With no Numpad, the Logitech G915 LightSpeed features 87 basic keys. However, you get an additional row of 8 multimedia keys positioned above the function keys, bringing the total number of keys to 95. 

The keyboard is relatively compact, measuring just 15.2 x 5.9 x 0.9 inches and weighing 1.68 lbs. Its height is less than one inch, making it the shortest keyboard on our list.

As to be expected from any Logitech branded product, the Logitech G915 LightSpeed has superb build quality with the chassis made of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy. Unfortunately, the keycaps are made of ABS material. These don’t provide the same premium feel as other keyboards with PBT keycaps on this list. We can’t help but wish Logitech had gone with PBT keycaps.

In terms of switch options, the Logitech G915 LightSpeed offers Logitech’s in-house Linear, Clicky, and Tactile switches. Our review unit came with Linear switches, featuring an impressively short pre-travel of only 1.5mm, a quarter shorter than standard Cherry MX Reds. 

Despite their shorter pre-travel distance, the keys on the G915 require an actuation force of 50g. However, that’s still lighter than Cherry MX Blues by about 10g. Overall, it strikes a nice middle ground.

Being a compact tenkeyless keyboard, it’s no surprise that the Logitech G915 LightSpeed doesn’t feature any additional macro keys. For that, you’ll have to opt for the full-sized variant of the G915, which features an additional column of six programmable keys on the left. 

Regardless, all keys on the G915 are fully programmable via Logitech G Hub software, and you can assign macros to all the available 87 basic keys. 

In short, the Logitech G915 LightSpeed is an excellent tenkeyless keyboard for gamers looking for a compact and stylish programmable mechanical keyboard. It has good build quality, user-friendly G Hub software, and Logitech’s in-house linear switches, an excellent choice for gamers who favor low-profile mechanical switches. Moreover, the LightSpeed wireless technology is top-notch, offering an impressive wireless polling rate of 1,000Hz.

9.2
Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed Wireless RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
  • LIGHTSPEED wireless delivers pro-grade performance with flexibility and freedom from cords. Creates a clean aesthetic for battlestations. Delivers 40 hours on a single full charge.
  • LIGHTSYNC technology provides RGB lighting that synchronizes lighting with any content. Personalize each key or create custom animations from ~16.8M colors with Logitech G HUB software.
  • Low Profile mechanical switches offers the speed, accuracy and performance of a mechanical switch at half the height The GL Tactile switch produces a discernible bump at the point of actuation. Comes in 3 options: GL Tactile, GL Linear or GL Clicky.
  • Tenkeyless design provides more room for mouse movement. Store the USB receiver in the back of the keyboard for additional portability.
  • Beautifully crafted, the G915 TKL uses aircraft-grade aluminum alloy to deliver incredibly thin but rigid and durable design.
  • Enjoy 40 hours of game time on a single charge. Low battery warnings at 15 percent on the keyboard battery LED and via pop-up notification in the Logitech G HUB software. Quickly recharges in 3 hours.
  • Dedicated media controls with a precision engineered, edgeless volume wheel provide convenient and easy control to quickly play, pause, skip or mute your media.
  • Connect to multiple devices uses LIGHTSPEED or Bluetooth. Toggle between high-performance LIGHTSPEED wireless via USB receiver and Bluetooth— quickly and easily.

4. Razer Huntsman V2 – Fastest Macro Gaming Keyboard

Razer Huntsman V2 is the ideal choice for professional gamers looking for a lightning-fast gaming keyboard with optical switches. It features a class-leading polling rate of 8,000 Hz with a latency of just 0.125 ms. However, it’s not just about speed; there’s more to this keyboard.

The Razer Huntsman V2 is a full-sized keyboard with all the standard 104 keys. It also comes with three dedicated media keys and a big dial in the top right corner. It measures 17.6 x 5.5 x 1.5 inches and weighs 2.51 lbs, making it one of the larger keyboards on our list.

In terms of build quality, the Razer Huntsman V2 features an aluminum chassis, which accounts for its substantial weight. Inside the chassis is a sound-dampening foam, which soaks up any key noises and ensures the keyboard doesn’t sound hollow. The keycaps are made of double shot PBT molding process, giving them a smooth, high-end feel.

Unlike other keyboards on this list, the Razer Huntsman V2 uses optical switches that use light beams to detect key presses, instead of mechanical actuation. The keyboard is available in Analog, Clicky, and Linear optical switches. The linear switches require an actuation force of 40g with a pre-travel of just 1.2mm, almost half of Cherry MX Reds. 

Being a Razer-branded product, the Huntsman V2 is fully compatible with Razer Synapse software. You can use the software to program every single key on the keyboard and assign macros within seconds. Unfortunately, the keyboard lacks dedicated macro keys, but with a total of 104 keys on-board, there are plenty of options for macro customization.

Overall, the Razer Huntsman V2 is the perfect choice for gamers looking for a blazing-fast keyboard for professional gaming. Its 8,000 Hz polling rate, optical mechanism, and fast switches with a pre-travel of just 1.2mm easily make it the fastest gaming keyboard on the planet. 

However, this speed comes with the trade-off of offering less tactile feedback than other keyboards on our list. But the Huntsman V2 is hard to beat if your primary goal is speed.

9.2
Razer Huntsman V2 Optical Gaming Keyboard
  • Razer Linear Optical Switches Gen-2: Improved with sound dampeners for an even quieter typing experience, the smooth, consistent switches are now also more responsive with up to true 8000Hz polling rate for lower input latency
  • Doubleshot PBT Keycaps: Harder and more durable than regular keycaps, these won’t wear down to a shiny finish and have labels which will never fade thanks to their doubleshot molding process
  • Multi-function Digital Dial and 4 Media Keys: Configure them to pause, play, skip and tweak everything from brightness to volume—the ultimate convenience for enjoying your entertainment
  • Ergonomic Wrist Rest: The sturdy wrist support perfectly aligns to the keyboard to relieve pressure on your wrists and feel less fatigued when gaming over long periods
  • Hybrid On-board Memory and Cloud Storage: Be match-ready regardless of the situation when you can save and activate up to 5 on-board memory profiles, while building a library of macros and settings to call upon with cloud storage
  • Sound Dampening Foam: Added for improved acoustics, the keyboard has a layer of special foam inside its casing which absorbs any pinging noises that might occur when the keys are bottomed out

5. Ducky One 2 Mini – Linux Gaming Keyboard with Macro Keys

The Ducky One 2 Mini requires little introduction. Over the years, it has garnered a cult following due to its extensive customizability and features, placing it closer to a fully customized keyboard than a branded mechanical keyboard. 

Combine that with its software-agnostic nature, and the Ducky One 2 Mini is a perfect keyboard for gamers who prefer gaming on the Linux platform, where 3rd party software support can be spotty at the best of times. 

As the name suggests, the Ducky One 2 Mini is a compact 60% keyboard with 61 keys. Notably, it is the smallest keyboard on our list, measuring just 11.9 x 4.3 x 1.6 inches. It’s also the lightest, weighing in at only 1.23 lbs. If you’re looking for a lightweight, compact keyboard with great macro support, it doesn’t get any better than that. 

Unfortunately, the Ducky One 2 Mini is lacking when it comes to build quality. Made of plastic, it doesn’t possess the same structural stiffness as other keyboards on our list featuring aluminum chassis. That’s not to say it’s fragile. However, the keycaps are made of premium double-shot PBT material, which is as good as it can get. 

Since Ducky One 2 Mini is a keyboard that falls between branded and custom mechanical keyboards, it uses the standard Cherry MX switches. As such, it’s available in all flavors, including the standard Cherry MX Blues, Reds, and Browns. You can mix and match different switch types, but you must have soldering experience to work on non-hot-swappable PCBs. For reference, our review unit arrived with Cherry MX Blue switches with 2.2mm pre-travel and 60g actuation force.

The main reason we recommend the Ducky One 2 Mini for Linux gamers is it doesn’t require any configuration software. Every aspect of the keyboard is independently customizable without relying on software. Assigning a macro is a straightforward process – just press Fn + Alt + Tab for 3 seconds, input the desired macro, and press Fn + Alt + Tab again to save it in the keyboard’s internal memory. You can store up to 6 profiles and switch between them by pressing Fn + Alt + Tab, followed by 1/2/3/4/5/6.

Overall, the Ducky One 2 Mini is a lightweight, compact mechanical keyboard that fills the gap between custom and branded mechanical keyboards. It can be used on any operating system without the need for dedicated software. The only downside is the plastic build quality, which doesn’t feel as premium as other keyboards on our list. But for the price and features, we can’t complain too much. 

9.4
Ducky One 2 Mini Pure White - RGB LED 60% Double Shot PBT Mechanical Keyboard
  • Distinctive bezel design and dual layer PCB
  • PBT Double Shot seamless keycaps
  • Supports Ducky Macro 2.0, the most powerful hardware available in the market
  • 3 level adjustable feet and Detachable USB-C cable
  • 60% size, lightweight and extremely portable
  • 10 additional PBT Double Shot random color keycaps

6. Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro – Best RGB Gaming Keyboard with Macro Keys

The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro is the perfect keyboard for RGB enthusiasts looking for a stylish companion for their RGB gaming rig. But the keyboard isn’t all about RGB. Beneath its flashy exterior is a highly capable keyboard that can easily keep up with the very best.

The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro is a full-sized mechanical keyboard with 104 standard keys. On the left side of the keyboard, there is a column of 5 programmable keys. In addition, four multimedia keys and a command dial at the upper left corner allow you to switch between different profiles on the fly. The keyboard measures 18.2 x 5.9 x 1.7 inches and weighs 2.49 lbs, placing it in the middle of the keyboards we tested.

Being a Razer-branded product, the BlackWidow V4 Pro has a premium metal chassis made of aircraft-grade 5052 aluminum alloy. Each key has its own individual RGB light. You get 38-zone underglow RGB lighting for an impressive light show. 

As expected, the keyboard supports Razer Chroma RGB, and you can synchronize the RGB lights with over 200 Chroma-integrated games, significantly boosting your in-game immersion.

For input, the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro offers Green (Tactile and Clicky) and Yellow (Linear and Silent) switches. We selected the Yellow switches for our review unit. These switches have a pre-travel distance of just 1.2mm and require an actuation force of 45g. For comparison, the Yellow switches have a 0.8mm shorter travel distance compared to the standard Cherry MX Reds while requiring slightly less actuation force. We enjoyed their feel and performance in gaming.

The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro has a column of customizable macro keys on the right side of the keyboard. The keyboard is fully compatible with Razer Synapse software, and you can fully customize and assign a macro to each key on the keyboard (except for multimedia keys). Moreover, you can store up to 5 profiles in the keyboard’s internal memory and switch between them on the fly using the Command Dial.

Overall, the Razer BlackWidow V4 is the best option for gamers looking for a keyboard that supports macros with flashy RGB lighting effects. 

9
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
  • GREEN MECHANICAL SWITCHES FOR PRECISE EXECUTION — Experience the perfect pairing of pressure and response time with satisfying, tactile feedback
  • IMMERSIVE UNDERGLOW & PER-KEY LIGHTING — Featuring per-key lighting and a striking 3-side underglow when paired with the wrist rest, sync the keyboard with your battlestation and enjoy greater immersion when gaming
  • COMMAND DIAL & 8 DEDICATED MACRO KEYS — Assign a custom function to the keyboard’s programmable dial, and game with greater command using a set of macro keys for essential keybinds
  • MAGNETIC PLUSH LEATHERETTE WRIST REST WITH UNDERGLOW — Designed to provide secure support for long hours of play, the soft, cushioned wrist rest also features Razer Chroma RGB lighting
  • DOUBLESHOT ABS KEYCAPS — Using a doubleshot molding process to ensure the labelling never wears off, the keycaps also have extra-thick walls which make them extremely tough to withstand prolonged, repeated use
  • MULTI-FUNCTION ROLLER & 4 MEDIA KEYS — Pause, play, skip and tweak everything from brightness to volume for ultimate convenience

7. SteelSeries Apex 3 – Membrane Gaming Keyboard with Macro Keys

The SteelSeries Apex 3 is a gaming keyboard with rubber dome switches. It’s perfect for gamers looking for a lightweight, affordable, quiet, and water-resistant membrane gaming keyboard with support for macro keys. 

The SteelSeries Apex 3 is a full-sized keyboard with 104 keys. It measures 17.5 x 5.5 x 1.8 inches and weighs 1.8 lbs. This makes it the second lightest keyboard on our list, with the only lighter option being the Ducky One 2 Mini, which has a compact 60% layout. 

Aside from the standard keys, there’s a clickable metallic roller on the keyboard’s upper right side. It allows you to control volume and rewind, skip, and pause music and videos.

Speaking of build quality, the SteelSeries Apex 3’s chassis is made from polycarbonate, a sturdy plastic polymer. The keycaps are made of ABS and feature UV protection to prevent color fading. The keyboard is also dirt and water-resistant and is IP32 certified. If you enjoy snacks or energy drinks while gaming, the IP32 water-resistant rating is a nice safety net. The keyboard is virtually maintenance-free. 

Despite being a keyboard with rubber domes, the SteelSeries Apex 3 offers two button choices: “Whisper Quiet – Tactile and Silent” and “Hybrid Blue – Tactile and Clicky.” For gamers concerned about noise, the best choice is – without a doubt – the Whisper Quiet buttons, though even Tactile and Clicky aren’t exactly loud compared to mechanical switches. 

SteelSeries Apex 3 is fully compatible with SteelSeries Engine software, allowing you to change RGB, reprogram keys, and assign different macros to the keyboard. A dedicated macro hotkey on the keyboard (F10 by default) also exists. You can use it to record macros on the fly without relying on the SteelSeries Engine software, which is a nice bonus. 

Overall, the SteelSeries Apex 3 is the best membrane keyboard with macros. While it lacks a little bit in terms of build quality, and the keycaps are made of ABS plastic, its affordable price tag, lightweight construction, and maintenance free, waterproof nature more than makes up for these minor shortcomings.

9.4
SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard
  • Ip32 water resistant – Prevents accidental damage from liquid spills
  • 10-zone RGB illumination – Gorgeous color schemes and reactive effects
  • Whisper quiet gaming switches – Nearly silent use for 20 million low friction keypresses
  • Premium magnetic wrist rest – Provides full palm support and comfort
  • Dedicated multimedia controls – Adjust volume and settings on the fly

Comparing Top Gaming Keyboards with Macro Buttons 2023

KeyboardSizeNumber of KeysSwitch TypeBest For
Corsair K100100%110Mechanical LinearOptical LinearMechanical low-profilePerformance
HyperX Alloy Origins Core100%104Mechanical LinearMechanical TactileMechanical ClickyLimited Budget
Logitech G915 LightSpeed (TKL)Tenkeyless87Mechanical LinearMechanical TactileMechanical ClickySmall Desks
Razer Huntsman V2100%104Analog LinearOptical ClickyOptical LinearEsports Gaming
Ducky One 2 Mini60%61Mechanical LinearMechanical TactileMechanical ClickyLinux Gamers
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro100%110Mechanical ClickyMechanical LinearRGB Lighting Fans
SteelSeries Apex 3100%104Rubber Dome TactileRubber Dome ClickyCareless Gaming

What are the Benefits of Macro Keys in Gaming? 

Macro keys offer numerous benefits in gaming. They handle the tedious, repetitive, grind-heavy aspects of games, freeing you to concentrate on more critical gameplay elements. 

Macros can also boost your gaming skills. For example, in fighting games like Tekken 7 or Shadow Fight, you can easily execute complex, lengthy combos without needing to memorize and time them precisely. The same applies to MOBA games, such as League of Legends, where macros enable you to execute complex skills, combos, and potions with the press of a button.

Aside from gaming, macro keys can reduce physical discomfort by reducing the keystrokes required to perform specific actions, which is crucial during those long-hour gaming sessions. 

However, it’s important to remember a few things regarding macro keys, particularly their acceptability in competitive eSports gaming.

Are Macros Allowed in Competitive Esports?

The acceptance of macros is questionable, especially in competitive esports. For instance, the Evo Tournament explicitly bans macros in its official rules and guidelines, prohibiting the use of “Hardware programmable input entry, rapid-fire, modifiers, macros, or other hardware-assisted mechanisms.” Only macros officially supported by the games are allowed.

Similarly, Blizzard also takes a firm stance against macros in their popular World of Warcraft esports events stating, “The use of input broadcasting software [macros] that mirrors keystrokes to multiple WoW game clients will soon be considered an actionable offense.”

Furthermore, Fortnite has been cracking down on macros since Season 5, with their official guidelines stating: “Any and all macros in Fortnite are forms of cheating. Simply put, a macro key is a single-press action that performs a sequence of key or button actions at once. We will continue to issue bans to players we catch using macros.”

So, if you’re considering using macros in competitive esports, it’s best to err on caution and ensure you’re not violating any rules or guidelines. Many players prefer not to deal with macros and simply want to enjoy the game as intended, raising questions about the fairness of using the functionality. 

It’s also a good idea to inform the players you’re about to compete against that you intend to use macros as a gesture of sportsmanship and to prevent any misunderstandings.

Gaming Keyboard with Macro Keys vs. Regular Keyboard with Macro Pad

While the idea of buying a macro pad instead of a macro keyboard may sound good on paper, it comes with several drawbacks. To begin with, a macro pad adds clutter to your desk, particularly if you have a compact desk with limited room. On the other hand, a macro keyboard effectively combines two devices into one, giving your gaming area a clean, simplistic visual aesthetic.

Another issue with macro pads is their lack of ergonomic friendliness as you’ve to continually shift your hand from the keyboard to the device, wasting precious milliseconds in heated deathmatch. Moreover, this constant movement can strain your muscles, leading to discomfort.

In short, it’s always better to go with a keyboard with built-in macro support. What to look for in a macro gaming keyboard, you ask? Well, we’ve got you covered!

How to Choose a Macro Gaming Keyboard

Here are a few things you need to keep in mind when choosing a gaming keyboard with macro functionality:

Macro Keys

Your initial decision should revolve around macro keys. If you need dedicated macro keys, you’ll need a full-sized keyboard. However, this will occupy a significant portion of your desk space. Conversely, a compact keyboard lacks dedicated macro keys due to its smaller size, but you can still assign macros to existing keys using the custom macro functionality.

Compatibility

Compatibility is another important consideration. If you’re using an older operating system like Windows 7 or a less common one like Linux, you may encounter issues with the keyboard’s software. Only a limited number of software programs support older operating systems or Linux. In such a scenario, you’ll either need to upgrade your operating system to at least Windows 10 or opt for a keyboard like the Ducky One 2, which has built-in macro functionality.

In-Game Profiles

Another aspect to think about is keyboard profiles. Some keyboards offer only a single in-game profile. If you require different key functions for various games, you must reprogram the macros each time. On the other hand, keyboards with multiple profiles allow you to assign a unique profile to each game, eliminating the need for constant macro reassignment.

Elevate Your Gaming Experience with Macro Keyboards: A Final Word

With that, our comprehensive look at the best gaming keyboard with macro keys concludes. Our top choice is the Corsair K100 keyboard, thanks to its sturdy construction, high-quality switches, and user-friendly Corsair iCUE software.

9.2
Corsair K100 RGB Optical-Mechanical Wired Gaming Keyboard
  • The CORSAIR K100 RGB is the pinnacle of CORSAIR keyboards, offering the cutting-edge performance, style, durability, and customization that gamers need to stand above the rest..Keyboard Cable Material: Braided
  • The centerpiece of your gaming setup, the CORSAIR K100 RGB boasts a refined design bolstered by a durable aluminum frame, dynamic per-key RGB backlighting, and a 44-zone three-sided LightEdge.
  • Powered by CORSAIR AXON Hyper-Processing Technology, enabling CORSAIR’s most advanced gaming keyboard experience by delivering up to 4x faster throughput with native 4,000Hz hyper-polling and 4,000Hz key scanning, while simultaneously driving up to 20-layer lighting effects.
  • A programmable iCUE control wheel gives you command over backlighting, media jogging, and more through CORSAIR iCUE software, customizable to perform actions in games and applications.

However, it’s important to remember that the use of macro keyboards comes with question marks. Not all gaming tournaments and platforms allow macros. In the worst case, you might get banned for using them. Therefore, it’s advisable to carefully review the terms and conditions of the online games you want to play before using macros.

Andrew is arguably the geekiest member of our team. He has a knack for new gaming hardware and awesome gadgets. Although Overwatch is his current favorite, he thinks the Counter Strike Global Offensive is the best shooter of all times. He is constantly hunting for news about new hero releases and patches. Andrew believes that playing video games is not just a hobby but a way of life. He regards his job at RealGear as a way of helping fellow gamers make the most of their gameplay by writing reviews about the hardware he uses and the FPS/ RTS he plays.

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