Best Keyboard Setup for Elite Dangerous: Top Picks & Guides
Alright, Commander! Tired of fumbling through menus or struggling with imprecise controls in Elite Dangerous? It’s a common pain point, especially when you’re deep in the black or in the heat of a dogfight. The right peripherals can make all the difference between smooth sailing and a frustrating experience.
You’re probably wondering what truly makes a setup shine for this game. It’s not just about flashy RGB; it’s about tactile feedback, customizability, and having the right tools at your fingertips. Let’s dive into what might be the best keyboard setup for Elite Dangerous and get you back to dominating the galaxy.
The 10 Best Keyboard Setup for Elite Dangerous Reviewed
1. Azeron Cyborg Ii Keypad
We’ve been putting the AZERON Cyborg ll through its paces, and for a niche peripheral like this, it offers a unique approach to control. The ergonomic design aims to put a multitude of commands within easy reach of your left hand, which can be a significant advantage in complex simulations. The array of buttons and the analog joystick are surprisingly intuitive once you get past the initial learning curve.
However, the build quality, while functional, doesn’t feel premium. The plastic housing has a slightly hollow sound when tapped, and some of the button caps feel a bit loose under pressure. For extended gaming sessions, the comfort is generally good, but the sheer number of keys can lead to a bit of finger fatigue initially.
This keypad is definitely not for everyone. If you prefer a traditional keyboard layout or have very small hands, you might find the reach and button density overwhelming. It’s a specialized tool that requires dedication to master, but for those seeking an alternative to a full keyboard for certain genres, it’s worth considering.
Pros
- Highly customizable button layout.
- Analog joystick offers precise directional input.
- Ergonomic design can reduce hand strain for some.
Cons
- Build quality feels a bit plasticky.
- Steep learning curve for button mapping.
- Not ideal for users who prefer standard keyboard layouts.
2. Redragon K719 Wireless Gasket Gaming Keyboard
The Redragon K719 presents an interesting blend of features, particularly its wireless capability and the inclusion of a “Hype Screen” and a rotary knob. Setting it up wirelessly was straightforward, and the connection remained stable during our testing, which is crucial for any gaming peripheral. The tactile feedback from the keys is satisfyingly crisp, providing good audible and physical confirmation with each press.
The Hype Screen is more of a novelty than a practical tool for most users; its utility is limited, and the display itself isn’t particularly sharp. The rotary knob, however, is a welcome addition, offering quick adjustments for volume or other assignable functions, which we found quite handy. My main gripe is the slightly mushy feel of some of the larger keys, like the spacebar, which lacks the definitive click of the main alphanumeric keys.
This keyboard is not for the minimalist. If you absolutely detest any form of RGB lighting or find dedicated media controls and extra dials unnecessary clutter, then this Redragon offering might be too much for you. It’s designed for those who appreciate a feature-rich experience and enjoy a bit of flair.
Pros
- Reliable wireless connectivity.
- Satisfying tactile key switches.
- Useful rotary knob for quick adjustments.
Cons
- Hype Screen functionality is limited.
- Some larger keys feel less responsive.
- Can be overwhelming for users preferring simplicity.
3. Redragon K745 Pro Wireless Gasket Rgb Gaming Keyboard
When considering the best keyboard setup for Elite Dangerous, peripherals that offer both tactile feedback and extensive programmability are key. The Redragon K745 PRO, with its 108 keys and wireless gasket design, aims to deliver just that. We found the gasket mount construction provided a pleasantly muted typing experience, with less of the harsh bottom-out sound often found on traditional keyboards. The RGB lighting is vibrant, offering a wide spectrum of colors and dynamic effects that can enhance the immersion of space flight.
The wireless performance was robust, maintaining a stable connection even in a crowded wireless environment, which is a significant plus for a simulation game where precise inputs are critical. The keycaps themselves feel durable, though the legends could be a touch sharper. My primary annoyance stems from the slightly inconsistent actuation force across some of the keys, meaning a few presses felt a bit lighter than others, which took some getting used to.
This keyboard is not for the gamer who needs absolute portability. Its full-size layout, while offering plenty of keys, means it’s not the most compact option for smaller desk spaces or for those who frequently travel with their setup. It’s an excellent choice for a dedicated gaming station where functionality and a visually appealing aesthetic are priorities.
Pros
- Gasket mount provides a softer typing feel.
- Vibrant and customizable RGB lighting.
- Stable wireless connection.
Cons
- Slightly inconsistent key actuation force.
- Full-size layout can be bulky.
- Keycap legends could be sharper.
4. Logitech G Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The Logitech G PRO TKL is a keyboard that prioritizes performance and portability, a combination that appeals to competitive players. Its compact tenkeyless design means it takes up minimal desk space, which is fantastic for maximizing mouse movement. We found the mechanical switches to be responsive and consistent, offering a satisfying click with every actuation. The build quality is solid, with a robust chassis that doesn’t flex under pressure.
While the portability is a major draw, the lack of a dedicated number pad can be a drawback for certain productivity tasks or games that heavily rely on those keys. I also noticed that the included USB cable, while sturdy, is a bit on the shorter side, which might limit placement options on larger desks. The clean aesthetic is appealing, but it might feel a bit too understated for those who crave flashy RGB lighting.
This keyboard is not for the user who needs a full number pad for data entry or frequent use. If you’re someone who juggles gaming and intensive spreadsheet work, you’ll likely find yourself missing those dedicated number keys. It’s built for speed and efficiency in gaming environments, and it excels at that.
Pros
- Compact and portable tenkeyless design.
- Responsive and consistent mechanical switches.
- Solid build quality.
Cons
- No dedicated number pad.
- Short USB cable can be limiting.
- Minimal RGB customization compared to others.
5. Steelseries Apex 3 Rgb Gaming Keyboard
The SteelSeries Apex 3 offers a more budget-friendly entry into the RGB gaming keyboard space. We found the whisper quiet, low-profile switches to be a pleasant surprise, offering a smooth and fast typing experience that’s ideal for late-night sessions without disturbing others. The per-key RGB illumination is bright and offers a good range of customization through SteelSeries’ software, adding a nice visual flair to your setup.
While the quiet operation is a plus, the membrane-based switches lack the definitive tactile feedback and audible click that mechanical enthusiasts crave. The plastic construction, while not flimsy, does feel a bit less premium than higher-end offerings, and the wrist rest, though included, is a bit on the small side and magnetically attaches rather loosely. My main annoyance is the slightly elongated travel distance before actuation, which can feel a tad sluggish for very fast typists.
This keyboard is not for the hardcore mechanical switch purist. If you absolutely require the distinct feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard, you will likely be disappointed with the Apex 3. It’s best suited for those who prioritize a quiet gaming experience and vibrant RGB lighting on a tighter budget.
Pros
- Very quiet operation.
- Bright and customizable per-key RGB lighting.
- Budget-friendly price point.
Cons
- Membrane switches lack tactile feedback.
- Build quality feels less premium.
- Wrist rest is small and can detach easily.
6. Razer Blackwidow V4 X Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
When building the best keyboard setup for Elite Dangerous, tactile feedback is often key, and the Razer BlackWidow V4 X with its yellow switches offers a smooth, linear experience. I found the actuation to be incredibly quick, which is beneficial for rapid inputs during dogfights. The keys themselves have a satisfying, albeit quiet, thud when bottomed out.
The overall build quality feels robust, with a sturdy chassis that doesn’t flex under pressure. However, the lack of dedicated macro keys, while keeping the board cleaner, means you’ll be relying on software or secondary functions for complex Elite Dangerous commands. This might be a slight inconvenience for pilots who prefer immediate, one-button access to their most used functions.
This keyboard is ideal for those who prioritize a quiet typing experience and rapid, consistent key presses. If you’re someone who gets easily annoyed by the click-clack of mechanical switches or needs a no-frills, high-performance input device, this is a solid contender. However, commanders who rely heavily on custom macros and hotkeys might find themselves wanting more dedicated controls.
Pros
- Smooth and fast linear key presses.
- Solid and durable build.
- Quiet operation for a mechanical board.
Cons
- No dedicated macro keys.
- Software reliance for advanced functions.
7. Redragon K585 Diti Wired One
For those seeking a focused approach to the best keyboard setup for Elite Dangerous, the Redragon K585 DITI presents an interesting, albeit niche, solution. Its primary draw is the integrated wrist rest, which offers a comfortable resting place for your hands during extended play sessions. The membrane keys provide a softer, quieter actuation than many mechanical counterparts, which can be a blessing for co-habitation.
I noticed that the keycaps themselves feel a bit lightweight, and the overall plastic construction doesn’t exude the premium feel of higher-end boards. While the RGB lighting is present, it’s not as vibrant or customizable as I’d hoped, which might disappoint users who want a visually striking setup. The single-handed design also necessitates a significant adjustment period for newcomers.
This device is specifically for players who absolutely prioritize wrist comfort above all else and are willing to adapt to a non-traditional layout. If you have limited desk space or suffer from wrist strain, this could be a consideration. However, anyone who values a full-sized keyboard, customizable RGB, or a traditional typing feel should steer clear.
Pros
- Comfortable integrated wrist rest.
- Quiet membrane key operation.
- Compact design.
Cons
- Lightweight keycaps and plastic build.
- Subdued RGB lighting.
- Requires adaptation to a unique layout.
8. Corsair K55 Rgb Pro Membrane Wired Gaming Keyboard
The Corsair K55 RGB PRO aims to provide a budget-friendly entry into a customizable gaming experience, and for Elite Dangerous, it offers a decent starting point. The membrane keys provide a cushioned press, which is forgiving for long missions, and the dedicated media controls are a welcome addition for managing in-game audio. I found the RGB backlighting to be quite punchy, offering a good range of colors and effects to personalize your setup.
However, the feel of the membrane keys, while quiet, lacks the satisfying tactile feedback that many gamers crave for precise actions. The plastic construction, though sturdy enough, feels a bit utilitarian. The dedicated macro keys are a plus, but their implementation requires using Corsair’s iCUE software, which can sometimes be a bit of a learning curve for beginners.
This keyboard is a good fit for players on a tighter budget who want a functional, backlit keyboard with some macro capabilities. If you’re just starting out in Elite Dangerous and don’t want to break the bank on peripherals, this is a sensible choice. Avoid this if you’re a seasoned player who demands the precision and feel of a high-end mechanical keyboard.
Pros
- Affordable price point.
- Vibrant RGB lighting.
- Dedicated media controls and macro keys.
Cons
- Lacks tactile feedback of mechanical switches.
- Utilitarian plastic build.
- iCUE software can be complex.
9. Redthunder 60% Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Combo
For commanders looking to optimize desk space for their Elite Dangerous setup, this RedThunder 60% keyboard and mouse combo is an interesting proposition. The compact nature of the keyboard frees up significant real estate, which can be crucial for those with smaller setups or who prefer a minimalist aesthetic. The keys themselves offer a distinct, audible click, providing clear feedback with each press.
However, the 60% layout means a considerable compromise on dedicated keys. Expect to spend a good amount of time learning the function layer for essential commands in Elite Dangerous, which can be frustrating during intense combat. The included mouse, while functional, feels rather generic and lacks the ergonomic contouring that serious players might prefer for extended sessions.
This combo is best suited for users who absolutely prioritize desk space and are willing to invest time in learning a compact layout. If you’re a pilot who also uses your desk for other tasks and needs to conserve space, this could be a viable option. Those who rely on a full-sized keyboard with dedicated macro keys or a specialized gaming mouse should look elsewhere.
Pros
- Extremely compact 60% layout.
- Audible and tactile key feedback.
- Space-saving design.
Cons
- Requires learning a function layer for keys.
- Generic, less ergonomic mouse included.
- Not ideal for complex command setups.
10. Redragon K516 Shiva Tkl Wired Rgb Membrane Gaming Keyboard
The Redragon K516 Shiva TKL keyboard offers a Tenkeyless layout, which is a good compromise for Elite Dangerous players who want more desk space than a full-size board but still retain dedicated arrow keys and a function row. The membrane switches provide a quieter, softer press compared to mechanical options, which can be beneficial for those sharing a space. I found the RGB lighting to be quite vibrant and customizable through the included software.
While the quieter operation is a plus, the membrane keys lack the definitive tactile feedback that many pilots prefer for precise, rapid inputs in combat. The build quality, while adequate, feels a bit plasticky and doesn’t inspire the same confidence as more robust boards. The software for RGB customization, while functional, can be a little clunky to navigate at times.
This keyboard is a solid choice for players on a budget who want a TKL layout with customizable RGB lighting and a quieter typing experience. If you’re looking for a functional, aesthetically pleasing board without the loud noise of mechanical switches, this is worth considering. However, if you crave the precise feedback and premium feel of mechanical switches, you’ll want to opt for a different model.
Pros
- TKL layout offers a good balance of size and functionality.
- Vibrant and customizable RGB lighting.
- Quieter membrane key operation.
Cons
- Lacks the tactile feedback of mechanical switches.
- Build quality feels somewhat plasticky.
- RGB software can be clunky.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Switch Type | Connectivity | Form Factor |
| AZERON Cyborg II Keypad | Mechanical (Thumbstick) | Wired | Keypad |
| Redragon K719 Wireless Gasket Gaming Keyboard | Gasket Mount (Type not specified) | Wireless | Full-Size |
| Redragon K745 PRO Wireless Gasket RGB Gaming Keyboard | Gasket Mount (Type not specified) | Wireless | Full-Size |
| Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | Mechanical (GX Switches) | Wired | Tenkeyless |
| SteelSeries Apex 3 RGB Gaming Keyboard | Membrane (Quiet) | Wired | Full-Size |
| Razer BlackWidow V4 X Mechanical Gaming Keyboard | Mechanical (Yellow Switches – Linear) | Wired | Full-Size |
| Redragon K585 DITI Wired One | Mechanical (Type not specified) | Wired | Tenkeyless (with Macro Pad) |
| Corsair K55 RGB PRO Membrane Wired Gaming Keyboard | Membrane | Wired | Full-Size |
| RedThunder 60% Gaming Keyboard and Mouse Combo | Mechanical (Type not specified) | Wired | 60% |
| Redragon K516 Shiva TKL Wired RGB Membrane Gaming Keyboard | Membrane | Wired | Tenkeyless |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Type of Key Switch for Elite Dangerous?
Tactile key switches are often recommended. They provide a physical bump. This confirms a key press without needing to bottom out.
Switches like Cherry MX Brown or Gateron Brown offer this satisfying feedback. This helps prevent accidental inputs. Linear switches are also popular. They have a smooth, consistent feel. Some players prefer this for rapid actions.
How Important Is Key Rollover in Elite Dangerous?
Key rollover is very important. You often press multiple keys at once. This is for complex commands. Think shield management or power distribution.
A keyboard with good rollover ensures all presses are registered. This prevents missed commands. N-key rollover (NKRO) is the best. It allows every key to be pressed simultaneously.
Should I Get a Keyboard with Programmable Macros?
Yes, programmable macros can be a game-changer. They let you automate sequences of actions. This saves time and reduces complexity.
You can bind complex maneuvers to a single key. For example, deploying hardpoints and weapons. This is crucial in fast-paced combat. Look for keyboards with dedicated macro keys or good software support.
What Is the Advantage of a Tenkeyless (tkl) Keyboard?
A tenkeyless keyboard lacks the number pad. This makes it more compact. It frees up desk space for mouse movement.
More mouse space is beneficial for aiming and maneuvering. It also brings the keyboard closer to your body. This can improve ergonomics. For Elite Dangerous, the number pad is rarely used for core commands.
How Can Ergonomics Improve My Elite Dangerous Experience?
Ergonomics helps prevent fatigue and strain. Long play sessions can be taxing on your hands and wrists.
A comfortable setup allows for longer, more enjoyable gameplay. Look for features like wrist rests or split designs. A keyboard that fits your natural posture is key.
Final Verdict
For the ultimate Elite Dangerous keyboard setup, we recommend a mechanical keyboard with tactile key switches (like Cherry MX Brown or Gateron Brown), N-key rollover, and dedicated programmable macro keys. A tenkeyless (TKL) form factor is also advantageous for maximizing desk space and improving ergonomics. This combination provides the precision, responsiveness, and customization needed to excel in the vast expanse of the galaxy, ensuring your commands are executed flawlessly during intense dogfights and complex maneuvers.