If you’re serious about your gaming setup, you’ve probably heard about Hall-effect keyboards. These aren’t your average mechanical keyboards—they’re something special. Imagine a keyboard that lets you customize how sensitive each key is, so you can press a key just a tiny bit and it registers instantly. Or, if you prefer, you can set it up so you need to press the key all the way down. That’s the magic of Hall-effect technology.
But here’s the thing: not all Hall-effect keyboards are created equal. Some are budget-friendly, while others are premium beasts packed with features.
5. BOYI 66 Pro
- Price: $69.99
- Key Features:
- Fully plastic build with a metal knob.
- Gasket-mounted design for improved typing sound and feel.
- South-facing LEDs and 8,000 Hz polling rate.
- Laton Pow magnetic strawberry switches with adjustable actuation (0.1 mm to 4 mm).
- Customizable software with modes like rapid trigger and dynamic keystroke.
Let’s kick things off with the BOYI 66 Pro, the most affordable option on our list at just $69.99. If you’re new to Hall-effect keyboards or just don’t want to break the bank, this is the perfect place to start. Don’t let the low price fool you—this keyboard packs a punch where it matters most.
First off, the build quality. The BOYI 66 Pro is mostly made of plastic, but it feels solid and well-put-together. It even has a metal knob on the side, which adds a nice touch of durability and gives you some tactile feedback when you turn it. The keyboard also comes with flip-up risers, so you can adjust the angle to your liking, and a handy switch to toggle between Windows and Mac compatibility.
Now, let’s talk about the typing experience. This keyboard is gasket-mounted, which is a fancy way of saying it’s designed to reduce vibrations and give you a smoother, more comfortable typing feel. Combine that with the built-in dampening, and you’ve got a keyboard that sounds and feels great, especially for the price. The Laton Pow magnetic strawberry switches are the star of the show here. These switches let you adjust the actuation point—basically, how far you need to press a key before it registers—anywhere from 0.1 mm to 4 mm. That’s a huge range, and it gives you the flexibility to fine-tune your keyboard for gaming, typing, or whatever else you need.
The software is another highlight. It’s specifically designed for the BOYI 66 Pro and lets you customize everything from the actuation points to special modes like rapid trigger and dynamic keystroke. These modes are a big deal for gamers because they let you press the same key repeatedly without fully releasing it, which can give you a serious edge in fast-paced games.
As for the keycaps, they’re shine-through, meaning the RGB lighting shines through the letters. They’re not the fanciest keycaps out there—they’re a bit on the cheaper side—but they get the job done and feel fine to game on. The RGB lighting itself isn’t the brightest or most vibrant, but it’s still customizable and adds a nice touch to your setup.
One thing that really stands out about the BOYI 66 Pro is the 8,000 Hz polling rate. This means the keyboard communicates with your computer up to 8,000 times per second, which translates to super low latency.
So, who is this keyboard for? If you’re on a tight budget but still want a Hall-effect keyboard that delivers solid performance and customization, the BOYI 66 Pro is a fantastic choice. It’s not perfect—the keycaps and RGB lighting could be better—but for under $70, it’s hard to beat.
- Pros:
- Best value for a budget Hall-effect keyboard.
- Solid build quality and good typing experience.
- Cons:
- Keycaps are on the cheaper side.
- RGB lighting is not as vibrant as others.
4. DrunkDeer A75
- Price: $149.99
- Key Features:
- TKL form factor with a magnetic wrist rest.
- Brushed metal top plate and multiple layers of dampening.
- Corsair MGX Hyperdrive switches with adjustable actuation (0.1 mm to 4 mm).
- Corsair iCUE software with extensive RGB customization.
- 8,000 Hz polling rate and dedicated game mode button.
Next up is the DrunkDeer A75, a step up in price at $129.99 (or slightly cheaper if you skip the keycaps). This keyboard is a fantastic option if you’re willing to spend a bit more for a better build and smoother performance. It’s got a lot going for it, especially if you’re into modding or just want a keyboard that feels premium without breaking the bank.
Let’s start with the build quality. The DrunkDeer A75 has a 75% form factor, which means it’s compact but still keeps the function row and arrow keys—perfect for gamers who want a smaller keyboard without sacrificing usability. The case is made of two pieces of sturdy plastic, and there’s almost no flex, which is impressive for a keyboard in this price range. The metal knob on the side feels solid, with no wobble, and has some nice tactile bumps when you turn it.
Inside the case, you’ll find a thick metal plate, EVA foam between the plate and the PCB, and another layer of foam inside the case. All of this adds up to a keyboard that sounds and feels amazing to type on. Seriously, even if you’re not a gamer, you’ll appreciate how smooth and enjoyable this keyboard is for everyday use.
Now, let’s talk about the switches. The DrunkDeer A75 uses its own magnetic linear switches, which are incredibly smooth. These switches let you adjust the actuation point from 2 mm to 3.8 mm, which isn’t the full range you’d get with some other keyboards, but it’s still plenty for most gamers. What’s really cool is that you can adjust the actuation on the fly by pressing the FN key and then one of the number keys. Want a shorter actuation for gaming and a longer one for typing? No problem—just switch between them instantly.
The software is another standout feature. It’s web-based, so you don’t need to download anything, and it’s constantly being updated. That’s a big deal because it means the keyboard is always getting better. You’ve got all the modes you’d expect, like rapid trigger, turbo mode, and SOCD cleaning (which prevents conflicting inputs in fighting games). There’s even a mode called last win, which is great for competitive gaming.
As for the keycaps, if you go with the version that includes them, they’re shine-through ABS keycaps. They’re not the most textured or premium-feeling keycaps out there, but they do the job. The stabilizers are plate-mounted and come pre-greased from the factory, which means they’re well-tuned right out of the box. There’s a slight tick on the enter key and backspace, but the spacebar is solid, which is usually the hardest stabilizer to get right.
The RGB lighting on this keyboard is a step up from the BOYI 66 Pro. It’s super bright, with tons of colors and modes to choose from. If you’re into RGB, you’ll love how vibrant and customizable it is.
So, who should consider the DrunkDeer A75? If you’re looking for a Hall-effect keyboard that offers a smoother typing experience, better build quality, and more customization than the budget options, this is a great choice. It’s especially appealing if you’re into modding or want a keyboard that feels premium without costing a fortune. For $129.99, it’s a solid investment for gamers who want a bit more from their keyboard.
- Pros:
- Premium build quality and excellent sound profile.
- Best RGB customization in the industry.
- Cons:
- iCUE software can be finicky.
- Spacebar stabilizers could be better.
3. Corsair K70 Pro TKL
- Price: $149.99
- Key Features:
- TKL form factor with a magnetic wrist rest.
- Brushed metal top plate and multiple layers of dampening.
- Corsair MGX Hyperdrive switches with adjustable actuation (0.1 mm to 4 mm).
- Corsair iCUE software with extensive RGB customization.
- 8,000 Hz polling rate and dedicated game mode button.
If you’re ready to step into the higher end of the Hall-effect keyboard world, the Corsair K70 Pro TKL is here to impress. Priced at $149.99, this keyboard is all about premium quality, top-notch performance, and features that scream “gamer approved.” Corsair is a well-known name in the gaming world, and they’ve really outdone themselves with this one.
Let’s start with the design and build quality. The K70 Pro TKL has a tenkeyless (TKL) form factor, which means it’s compact but still keeps the arrow keys and function row. It also comes with a magnetic wrist rest that’s not just an afterthought—it’s genuinely comfortable. The wrist rest is plush, soft, and angled just right, making it perfect for long gaming sessions. The keyboard itself has a solid plastic shell with a brushed metal top plate, giving it a sleek, premium look that’s hard to beat.
Corsair has also gone all out with the dampening on this keyboard. There are multiple layers of foam and padding inside, which not only reduces noise but also gives it a sound profile that’s closer to a custom mechanical keyboard than your typical gaming keyboard. The result? A typing experience that’s smooth, quiet, and satisfying.
Now, let’s talk about the switches. The K70 Pro TKL uses Corsair’s MGX Hyperdrive switches, which are magnetic and incredibly smooth. These switches let you adjust the actuation point from 0.1 mm to 4 mm, giving you full control over how sensitive your keys are.
The software is Corsair’s iCUE, which is both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it’s packed with features and customization options. You can tweak everything from RGB lighting to actuation points, and there are modes like rapid trigger, SOCD cleaning, and dual actuation. On the other hand, iCUE can be a bit finicky at times, especially if you’re using other Corsair peripherals. That said, for this keyboard specifically, it works like a charm.
One standout feature is the dedicated game mode button. Press it, and the keyboard switches to its lowest latency settings, ensuring you get the fastest possible response times.
The keycaps are shine-through and thicker than your average gaming keyboard keycaps, with a nice texture to them. The stabilizers feel great, though there’s a slight tick on the spacebar and a few other keys. That said, it’s an easy fix if you’re willing to add a bit of grease.
As for the RGB lighting, this is where Corsair really shines. The K70 Pro TKL has some of the brightest, most vibrant RGB lighting you’ll find on a keyboard. It’s not just about the colors—it’s the customization. With iCUE, you can create unique lighting effects that sync with your games or other Corsair devices. If you’re an RGB enthusiast, this keyboard is a dream come true.
So, who is the Corsair K70 Pro TKL for? If you’re looking for a premium Hall-effect keyboard with top-tier build quality, smooth switches, and the best RGB lighting in the business, this is the one for you. It’s perfect for gamers who want a high-performance keyboard that looks as good as it feels. Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but for what you’re getting, it’s worth every penny.
- Pros:
- Premium build quality and excellent sound profile.
- Best RGB customization in the industry.
- Cons:
- iCUE software can be finicky.
- Spacebar stabilizers could be better.
2. Wooting 60HE+
- Price: $174.99
- Key Features:
- 60% form factor with a plastic case and customizable design.
- Leer switches with adjustable actuation (0.1 mm to 4 mm).
- Utility software (web-based or downloadable) with extensive customization.
- Double-shot PBT backlit keycaps.
- Five RGB LEDs on the spacebar for vibrant lighting.
If you’re a compact keyboards fan and want something built specifically for gaming, the Wooting 60HE+ is a top contender. Priced at $174.99, this keyboard is a favorite among gamers and mechanical keyboard enthusiasts alike. It’s a 60% form factor, which means it’s super compact—no function row, no arrow keys, just the essentials. But don’t let its size fool you; this keyboard is packed with features that make it a powerhouse for gaming.
Let’s start with the design. The Wooting 60HE+ is made entirely of plastic, but it doesn’t feel cheap. In fact, it has some unique design elements, like the “Take Control” decorative fabric tag on the case, which adds a nice touch of personality. The case is also a standardized size, which means you can easily swap it out for an aftermarket case if you want to upgrade to something like metal or a different color.
One of the standout features of the Wooting 60HE+ is its dampening. The keyboard is designed to produce a solid, thocky sound that’s satisfying to type on. It’s not just about the sound, though—the feel is just as important. The keyboard uses Leer switches, which are magnetic and incredibly smooth. These switches are a bit heavier than some others, which makes them perfect for gaming because they provide a nice balance between speed and precision.
The adjustable actuation is another big selling point. You can set the actuation point anywhere from 0.1 mm to 4 mm, with increments of 0.1 mm. This level of customization is a game-changer for gamers who want to fine-tune their keyboard for different types of games.
The software is where the Wooting 60HE+ really shines. It’s called Utility, and it’s widely regarded as the best keyboard software in the industry. You can use it web-based (no downloads required) or download it to your computer. It’s simple, intuitive, and packed with features. You’ve got all the standard modes like rapid trigger, SOCD cleaning, and dynamic keystroke, but there’s also a Gamepad mode that lets you use the keyboard like a controller.
The keycaps are double-shot PBT and backlit, which means they’re durable and let the RGB lighting shine through. They’re not the most premium keycaps out there, but they get the job done. If you want something fancier, Wooting offers upgraded keycaps for an additional $50, though they’re more about looks than performance.
The stabilizers are well-tuned out of the box, with only a minor tick on the spacebar. For most gamers, this won’t be an issue, but if you’re a perfectionist, it’s an easy fix with a bit of grease.
Now, let’s talk about the RGB lighting. The Wooting 60HE+ has five RGB LEDs on the spacebar, which makes the lighting look absolutely stunning. If you’re into RGB, this keyboard will not disappoint. The colors are vibrant, the lighting is perky, and there are tons of customization options.
So, who is the Wooting 60HE+ for? If you’re a gamer who values compact design, smooth switches, and top-tier software customization, this keyboard is a fantastic choice. It’s especially great for competitive gamers who want every possible advantage. Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but it’s worth every penny for what you’re getting.
- Pros:
- Best software in the industry with constant updates.
- Smooth switches and excellent gaming performance.
- Cons:
- Keycaps are not the best quality for the price.
- Slight tick on the spacebar stabilizer.
1. Wooting 80HE
- Price: $199.99
- Key Features:
- 80% form factor with arrow keys and function row.
- Gasket-mounted design with silicone and foam dampening.
- Leer L60 V2 switches with improved factory lube.
- Utility software with future compatibility for updates.
- Stupidly bright RGB with a light bar.
Now the best of the best in Hall-effect keyboards, the Wooting 80HE is here to claim the crown. Priced at $199.99, this keyboard is the most expensive on our list, but it’s also the most feature-packed and versatile. It’s like the Wooting 60HE+ but with a few key upgrades that make it even better.
Let’s start with the design. The Wooting 80HE has an 80% form factor, which means it’s slightly larger than the 60HE+. It includes arrow keys and a function row, making it more practical for everyday tasks like typing or productivity work. The case is still made of plastic, but if you want something more premium, Wooting offers a full metal case as an upgrade. The keyboard also comes with silicone swappable feet, which let you adjust the angle of the keyboard.
One of the biggest upgrades over the 60HE+ is the dampening. The Wooting 80HE uses a combination of silicone, foam, and a PET film (essentially a factory tape mod) to create a sound profile that’s deep, thocky, and satisfying. It’s also gasket-mounted, which gives it a slightly softer typing experience compared to the 60HE+.
The switches are another highlight. The Wooting 80HE uses Leer L60 V2 switches, which are magnetic and incredibly smooth. These switches are an improvement over the previous version, with better factory lube that ensures they’re smooth without being over-lubed. Like the 60HE+, you can adjust the actuation point from 0.1 mm to 4 mm, giving you full control over how sensitive your keys are.
The software is identical to the 60HE+, and that’s a good thing. Wooting’s Utility software is web-based (or downloadable) and is packed with features. You’ve got all the standard modes like rapid trigger, SOCD cleaning, and dynamic keystroke, but there’s also a Tachyon mode that reduces latency to the absolute minimum.
The keycaps are shine-through and have a nice texture to them. They’re not the most premium keycaps out there, but they’re durable and let the RGB lighting shine through beautifully. The stabilizers are also well-tuned, with no ticks or rattles, which is impressive for a keyboard right out of the box.
Now, let’s talk about the RGB lighting. The Wooting 80HE takes things up a notch with a light bar that adds even more flair to the already vibrant RGB lighting.
So, who is the Wooting 80HE for? If you’re looking for the ultimate Hall-effect keyboard that combines top-tier performance, premium build quality, and versatility, this is the one for you.
- Pros:
- Premium sound and feel with a thwacky typing experience.
- Highly customizable with swappable silicone feet.
- Cons:
- Plastic case (metal case available separately).
- Expensive compared to other options.
Top 5 Hall-Effect Gaming Keyboards
To make it easier for you to compare the top 5 Hall-effect gaming keyboards, we’ve put together a quick comparison table. This table breaks down the key features, price points, and standout qualities of each keyboard so you can see how they stack up side by side.
Feature | BOYI 66 Pro | DrunkDeer A75 | Corsair K70 Pro TKL | Wooting 60HE+ | Wooting 80HE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Price | $69.99 | $129.99 | $149.99 | $174.99 | $199.99 |
Form Factor | 65% | 75% | TKL | 60% | 80% |
Build Material | Plastic + Metal Knob | Plastic + Metal Knob | Plastic + Metal Plate | Plastic | Plastic (Metal Upgrade Available) |
Switches | Laton Pow Magnetic | DrunkDeer Magnetic | Corsair MGX Hyperdrive | Leer Switches | Leer L60 V2 |
Actuation Range | 0.1 mm – 4 mm | 2 mm – 3.8 mm | 0.1 mm – 4 mm | 0.1 mm – 4 mm | 0.1 mm – 4 mm |
Software | BOYI-Specific | Web-Based | Corsair iCUE | Wooting Utility | Wooting Utility |
RGB Lighting | Perky, Not Vibrant | Bright, Vibrant | Industry-Leading RGB | 5 RGB LEDs on Spacebar | Light Bar + Vibrant RGB |
Keycaps | Shine-Through | ABS Shine-Through | Thick Shine-Through | Double-Shot PBT | Shine-Through |
Polling Rate | 8,000 Hz | 1,000 Hz | 8,000 Hz | 1,000 Hz | 1,000 Hz |
Best For | Budget Gamers | Modders & Enthusiasts | Premium Build & RGB | Compact Gaming | Ultimate Performance |
Final Thoughts: Which Hall-Effect Gaming Keyboard is Right for You?
After diving deep into the top 5 Hall-effect gaming keyboards, it’s clear that each one brings something unique to the table.
- If you’re on a tight budget: The BOYI 66 Pro is your best bet. At just $69.99, it offers incredible value with customizable actuation, a solid build, and a smooth typing experience. It’s perfect for gamers who want to dip their toes into Hall-effect technology without spending a fortune.
- If you love modding and customization: The DrunkDeer A75 is a fantastic mid-range option. With its smooth switches, on-the-fly actuation adjustment, and sturdy build, it’s a great choice for gamers who like to tweak and personalize their gear.
- If you want premium quality and RGB: The Corsair K70 Pro TKL is the way to go. With its brushed metal top plate, comfortable wrist rest, and industry-leading RGB lighting, this keyboard is perfect for gamers who want a high-end experience.
- If you’re a competitive gamer: The Wooting 60HE+ is a compact powerhouse designed for speed and precision. Its smooth switches, top-tier software, and compact form factor make it ideal for gamers who need every possible advantage.
- If you want the best of the best: The Wooting 80HE is the ultimate Hall-effect keyboard. With its versatile 80% layout, premium sound profile, and stunning RGB lighting, it’s perfect for gamers and typists who want the absolute best performance and customization.
So, which one will you choose? Let us know in the comments below! And if you’re ready to make your pick, don’t forget to check out the Amazon links for the best deals on these keyboards.
Thanks for reading, and happy gaming!