As a gamer, you always need to be selective when it comes to buying gaming keyboards. There are thousands of options out there, and each one looks better than the other.
If you've ever come across a ducky keyboard and wondered whether they are good for gaming, then this article is for you.
Yes, Ducky keyboards give the perfect performance for gaming, and the aesthetics aren't far behind either. They are ideal for any kind of game, but especially for those that require quick reflexes. The reasons include their premium mechanical switches, RGB customizations, ergonomic designs, hot-swappable bodies, low latency, and much more.
They are also durable and come in a lot of layouts to suit everyone's preferences.
Now that's just the beginning of this article. Below, I will be highlighting some more features regarding Ducky keyboards. Moreover, there will be information about the best 3 gaming keyboards from the brand.
Whether you're a regular gamer or a competitive one, you surely don't want to miss out on the advantages of these boards.
Is Ducky Mini good for gaming?
The Ducky Mini is, of course, an excellent keyboard for gaming. But what makes it good? It is the compact size, along with high functionality and low latency, that makes the Ducky Mini a fine choice for any gamer.
If you don't already know, it is a 60% board and comes with Cherry MX key switches. Not only that, it is highly durable and has a slim design. The latter helps keep the wrists straight during long sessions.
The keyboard also has an N-key rollover and its own firmware to customize the RGB lights. The weight is just around 730 grams, making the keyboard very light. Unfortunately, it is not wireless, but the USB 2.0 connection just proves to be as good at registering keystrokes.
However, there have been two successors to Ducky Mini. They are the One 2 Mini and the One 3 Mini. If you have a larger budget, then go for either of these two. I'll suggest going for the One 3 Mini, as it has even more features.
Nevertheless, even if you get the Ducky Mini, the performance will be right up there. There are no compromises on that.
Best Ducky keyboards for gaming
If you're looking for the best Ducky keyboard for gaming, then I've done all the research for you.
I've scoured the market and handpicked three of the top keyboards from Ducky that offer unmatched performance, functionality, customization, latency, and, obviously, comfort.
Now without wasting any time, let's dive right into these picks and see why they are a level above the rest.
Ducky One 3 Mini
The Ducky One 3 Mini Daybreak uses state-of-the-art Ducky's QUACK mechanics and design attributes. Its keycaps are made from true PBT and are thus stain-resistant.
Moreover, they are completely designed to be used for fast movements and constant use.
The overall structure of the keyboard is as perfect as it can get. The weight distribution is perfect, and there's no way that anyone would find the board to be bulky or heavy. This makes it sublime for both gaming and typing.
On top of that, the One 3 Mini is a hot-swappable keyboard and has Kailh's hot-swap sockets. There's no need to desolder the keyboard or anything like that. You can simply pop off the switches and insert the new ones.
A USB Type-C port guarantees a 1000 Hz polling rate, which is way too quick. Along with that, there are three typing angles to adjust the board according to your preference. There's also room for customization with the RGB lights.
Ducky One 3 TKL
If the One 3 Mini is too small for you, try the TKL (TenKeyLess) variant of the same keyboard. It has the same build quality, design, and features as the Mini. Moreover, the functionalities are the same as those of a full keyboard.
You will only have to compromise on the numeric keypad, but of course, that isn't always necessary while gaming. Apart from that, this keyboard has all the essentials checked to be an excellent choice for gamers.
Again, it has three typing angles along with a sleek and clean bezel design. Above all, the radiant effects of the RGB lights make the keyboard look really awesome. You have the option to control the color, speed, and brightness of the lights to adjust them according to your liking.
I suggest going for the Cherry MX Silent Red switch model. They are super fast and silent, without any tactile bumps. Apart from the Silent Reds, you also have options for Cherry MX Browns, Blues, Reds, and Silvers.
This keyboard will cost you a bit more than the Mini, of course. But nonetheless, it is more functional as well if we look at the bigger picture outside gaming.
Ducky One 2 Mini RGB
It was impossible not to include the OG and fan-favorite Ducky One 2 Mini in the list. This is a classic gaming keyboard that quickly rose to popularity due to its top performance in the gaming circuit.
It is extremely reliable, and users can always bank on it to bring the best out of them. It doesn't matter which game you're playing, the One 2 Mini will perform to its finest. This one has a petite bezel design along with PBT double-shot keycaps and Cherry MX switches.
You can also get this keyboard with Gaterons and Kailhs if you'd like. Like the One 3 Mini, it also has three typing angles, RGB lights, and a 1000 Hz polling rate. You also get anti-ghosting technology with 6-key or N-key rollover.
The Ducky One 2 Mini is a gaming keyboard's heritage. There aren't many differences between the One 2 and One 3 Mini, and the price range differs only by a few dollars. I'd advise you to get a feel of both keyboards and then decide which one you want to get.
Do Ducky keyboards have bad latency?
The Ducky keyboards don't have bad latency by any stretch of the imagination. The switches are extremely quick to respond, and the keystroke is registered immediately. The polling rate in most of Ducky's keyboards is 1000 Hz, which is ideal for high-paced gaming.
On top of that, you can get these boards with Cherry MX Reds or Silent Reds, which will add to the speed. But even if you buy them with MX Blues or Browns, the keyboards will perform just as well. The only thing that will slow down the speed will be the actuation of clicky switches.
So, for gaming, do go for linear key switches on your Ducky keyboard. The boards that I have suggested above have some of the lowest latencies around, and they'll help you a ton in your gaming career.
Is Ducky keyboard good for FPS?
I have been asked many times whether Ducky keyboards are usable for certain games or not. One frequently asked question is related to FPS (first-person shooters). So, the answer is affirmative.
Ducky keyboards are great for FPS games like CS, Valorant, Call of Duty, and more. FPS gaming is all about having a keyboard with a fast response time, low latency, and accurate input. Since Ducky keyboards come equipped with Cherry MX switches, precision and speed are covered.
Besides, the gaming boards from Ducky already have brilliant latency, as we saw with the three picks above. The keyboards are not very long and leave much space for the mouse to move freely.
The ergonomic design just helps to comfort you and prevent you from suffering from RSI.
There's also the option to lock certain keys on the keyboard, like on the Windows one. This saves you from interrupting the game midway due to an accidental press.
All in all, Ducky keyboards can be easily recommended to FPS enthusiasts. Once you get familiar with the feel of these boards, it won't take long to get some aces and carry the team.
What keyboards do pro FPS players use?
Pro FPS players always use a keyboard that is quick, precise, ergonomic, durable, and long-lasting. FPS gaming, as told, requires you to be on your mark at every moment. Just a slight delay, and you can be on your way to losing the game.
Now there are some popular keyboard choices among professional players. You'll often see them using something like a HyperX Alloy FPS, a SteelSeries Apex Pro, a Ducky One 2 or 3 Mini, a Logitech G Pro, and more.
All of these keyboards have something similar. Every one of them is fast and registers the keystrokes immediately. You can just glide over the keys, and the actuation will take place.
Are keyboards with lighter switches better for gaming?
Yes, keyboards with light switches are preferred for gaming because they help with strafing and overall movement. FPS games for example are not just about aiming and hitting a headshot. Undoubtedly, that is the main objective, but you also need to dodge the enemies.
And how do you do that as quickly as possible?
It is with the help of a keyboard that has light linear keys, low latency, high precision, and more similar features.
The top FPS players always use a keyboard that covers the mentioned aspects.
You'll almost never find a pro gamer using a membrane keyboard or a mechanical one with heavy clicky switches. Your gaming gear is just as important as your in-game skills need to be.
Are Ducky keyboards better than Logitech?
Indeed, Ducky keyboards are better than Logitech in some aspects. However, ultimately, it's everyone's choice which brand they want to go for. It's not like Logitech doesn't stand a chance against Ducky. Rather, both brands have their strengths and weaknesses.
But largely, Ducky keyboards have a superior build quality thanks to their aluminum frames and double-shot keycaps. Both of them combine to improve the longevity of the keyboard and give it a premium look.
Furthermore, there's more room for customization on Ducky keyboards. First, you have the option to set the RGB lights according to your preference. And second, these keyboards are hot-swappable. This means that you can easily replace the switches and keycaps on them.
And if you ask aesthetically, then I'll give the edge to Ducky again. The RGB lights, aluminum design, high-quality keycaps, ergonomics, and other aspects combine to make them eye-pleasing.
Having said that, keep in mind that Ducky keyboards will be more expensive compared to Logitech. The latter is more affordable and will be a fine pick for anyone on a low budget.
Logitech boards also have programmable macros, multimedia keys, wireless connectivity, low latency, and other features that make them a very good choice.
Is Razer or Ducky better?
Ducky keyboards are better than Razer in terms of design, build, and keycap compatibility. Razer keyboards mostly come with a single switch that can’t be changed. On the other hand, you can change key switches easily on the Ducky keyboards.
They are known in the community for being durable and reliable.
As for the Razer keyboards, they are focused mainly on enhancing gaming performance. This is the reason why Razer keyboards have responsive switches, macro keys, and low latency.
Those who prefer keyboards with a strong frame often go for Ducky. While those who like a board that can be highly customized with software prefer Razer.
It all boils down to personal choices.
What is the fastest keyboard 60%?
SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini is hands down one of the best and fastest keyboards available currently. But what makes it so fast? Well, it's an extremely low latency rate, along with the Omnipoint 2.0 adjustable switches that have a 10x quicker actuation and an 11x faster response.
The switches on these keyboards are a step in the future. You can get these, and the problem of getting separate keyboards for typing and gaming will be diminished.
How? These switches can be adjusted to an exceptionally low actuation point of 0.2 mm and a very high distance of 3.8 mm.
SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini
With such swiftness, you are bound to perform well in games with this keyboard. Moreover, the keys can perform a 2-in-1 action. This means that a single key can accomplish two objectives.
For instance, you can set up a key in such a manner that upon pressing it lightly, the character walks normally. And as soon as you press the key deeper, the character starts running.
The keyboard comes with its own software for customization. It's very simple to use, and the users can play around with it to see how they want their keyboard to look. The keycaps are double-shot, whereas the top plate is made of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy.
To sum up, it's worth the money if you plan to expand the budget on a gaming keyboard.
Conclusion
So, are Ducky keyboards good for gaming? I am sure you have the answer to that. Ducky keyboards are exceptional boards for every gamer, whether it's MOBA, RPG, FPS, racing, fighting, or whatnot.
The build, looks, design, performance, customizability, functionality, and every other thing about Ducky keyboards are second to none.
Yes, they'll be a little more expensive than some other brands, but you've got to spend a few bucks to get better quality. People who have used Ducky keyboards have always given positive reviews about them. Whether it's the Mini 2 or 3, each board is here to stay!
If you're interested in learning more about different keyboards and switches, then keep up with my blog. As an expert in this field, my goal is to provide the correct knowledge and educate the tech enthusiasts out there!
Until next time, read: Are 60% Keyboards Good for Gaming?
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