Buying Guide
The Best Magnetic Gaming Keyboards
Six Hall effect boards from $38 to $150 at the time of writing.
By The PC Journal editorial team
12 min read6 products evaluated
Magnetic switches read key depth, so actuation is adjustable and rapid trigger resets keys as they rise. These six range from 60% to TKL.
We compared layout, polling and features from each listing.
Quick Picks
Our 6 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Best TKL
Corsair K70 PRO TKL Wired Keyboard
MGX switches with double-shot PBT.
Best for: Full arrows and F-row.
Our take Check price for Corsair K70 PRO TKL Wired Keyboard (opens in a new tab)
Best 65%
ASUS ROG Falchion Ace HFX
ROG HFX switches with 8000Hz.
Best for: Compact desks.
Our take Check price for ASUS ROG Falchion Ace HFX (opens in a new tab)
Best Logitech
Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid Keyboard
Hall effect switches in a TKL.
Best for: Logitech setups.
Our take Check price for Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid Keyboard (opens in a new tab)
Best 68-Key Value
AULA WIN68 HE Magnetic Switch Keyboard
8000Hz near $40.
Best for: Budget shooters.
Our take Check price for AULA WIN68 HE Magnetic Switch Keyboard (opens in a new tab)
Best Dynamic Keys
Attack Shark X68 HE
Up to 4 actions per key.
Best for: Macro fans.
Our take Check price for Attack Shark X68 HE (opens in a new tab)
Lowest Price
Redragon K617 HE Magnetic Keyboard
8000Hz and rapid trigger near $38.
Best for: Tight budgets.
Our take Check price for Redragon K617 HE Magnetic Keyboard (opens in a new tab)
| Pick | Why it’s here | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| MGX switches with double-shot PBT. | Full arrows and F-row. | Check price for Corsair K70 PRO TKL Wired Keyboard (opens in a new tab) |
| ROG HFX switches with 8000Hz. | Compact desks. | Check price for ASUS ROG Falchion Ace HFX (opens in a new tab) |
| Hall effect switches in a TKL. | Logitech setups. | Check price for Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid Keyboard (opens in a new tab) |
| 8000Hz near $40. | Budget shooters. | Check price for AULA WIN68 HE Magnetic Switch Keyboard (opens in a new tab) |
| Up to 4 actions per key. | Macro fans. | Check price for Attack Shark X68 HE (opens in a new tab) |
| 8000Hz and rapid trigger near $38. | Tight budgets. | Check price for Redragon K617 HE Magnetic Keyboard (opens in a new tab) |
Our Picks
Best TKL1 of 6
Corsair K70 PRO TKL Wired Keyboard on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The K70 PRO TKL is Corsair's magnetic tenkeyless board.
Best for
- Full arrows and F-row.
Skip if
- Skip it if this is a deal-breaker for you: wired only.
Why we like it
MGX switches with rapid trigger and double-shot PBT keycaps suit competitive play. Like the PRO X TKL Rapid, it has a TKL layout, while the Falchion Ace HFX uses a 65% layout. No other pick in this guide offers MGX Hall effect magnetic switches; compare the WIN68 HE, which has hall effect magnetic switches.
The K70 PRO TKL needs a free USB port, so check cable length to your case or monitor hub. Adjusting actuation needs the maker's software or web tool on Windows. Its price falls between the X68 HE and the Falchion Ace HFX, based on our last check. Buyers who need a confirmed polling rate should compare it with the Falchion Ace HFX, which offers 8,000Hz.
Key dimensions & specs
- Layout: TKL
- Switches: MGX Hall effect magnetic
- Connection: Wired
- Keycaps: Double-shot PBT
Pros
- Tenkeyless layout leaves more room for the mouse
- Magnetic Hall effect switches
- PBT keycaps resist shine
- Rapid trigger support
Cons
- Wired only
- No published polling rate
- Costs more than the K617 HE at the time of writing
Best 65%2 of 6
ASUS ROG Falchion Ace HFX on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The Falchion Ace HFX uses Hall effect switches with actuation adjustable from 0.1 to 4.0mm and Rapid Trigger, in a 65% layout.
Best for
- Compact desks.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: wired only.
Why we like it
Two USB-C ports let it switch between two PCs. A 65% layout is unique to it among these picks, while the WIN68 HE uses a 68-key compact layout. You get ROG HFX Hall effect magnetic switches here, which sets it apart from the PRO X TKL Rapid and its hall effect magnetic switches.
It also comes with a protective cover for travel. The Falchion Ace HFX needs a free USB port, so check cable length to your case or monitor hub. High polling rates use more CPU time; drop to 1,000Hz if an older system stutters.
Adjusting actuation needs the maker's software or web tool on Windows. It was priced above the K70 PRO TKL and below the PRO X TKL Rapid at the time of writing.
Key dimensions & specs
- Layout: 65%
- Switches: ROG HFX Hall effect magnetic
- Connection: Wired
- Polling rate: 8,000Hz
- Keycaps: PBT
Pros
- Compact 65% layout
- Magnetic Hall effect switches
- 8,000Hz polling
- PBT keycaps resist shine
Cons
- Wired only
- Costs more than the K617 HE at the time of writing
Best Logitech3 of 6
Logitech G PRO X TKL Rapid Keyboard on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The PRO X TKL Rapid is Logitech's magnetic-switch board.
Best for
- Logitech setups.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: wired only.
Why we like it
Rapid trigger and adjustable actuation matter most in shooters where keys reset constantly. Like the K70 PRO TKL, it has a TKL layout, while the Falchion Ace HFX uses a 65% layout. The PRO X TKL Rapid needs a free USB port, so check cable length to your case or monitor hub.
Adjusting actuation needs the maker's software or web tool on Windows. It was the most expensive pick when we checked, so weigh what it adds over the Falchion Ace HFX. Buyers who need a confirmed polling rate should compare it with the Falchion Ace HFX, which offers 8,000Hz.
Key dimensions & specs
- Layout: TKL
- Switches: Hall effect magnetic
- Connection: Wired
Pros
- Tenkeyless layout leaves more room for the mouse
- Magnetic Hall effect switches
- Rapid trigger with adjustable actuation
- Hall effect switches in a TKL
Cons
- Wired only
- No published polling rate
- Costs more than the K617 HE at the time of writing
Best 68-Key Value4 of 6
AULA WIN68 HE Magnetic Switch Keyboard on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The WIN68 HE brings magnetic switches down to a budget price.
Best for
- Budget shooters.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: wired only.
Why we like it
The 68-key layout keeps arrows while dropping the function row. You get a 68-key compact layout here, which sets it apart from the X68 HE and its a 65% (68 keys) layout. It also offers a Hall effect board at a membrane-keyboard price.
The WIN68 HE needs a free USB port, so check cable length to your case or monitor hub. High polling rates use more CPU time; drop to 1,000Hz if an older system stutters. Small layouts move keys to a function layer, so check the legend for arrows and F-keys.
Adjusting actuation needs the maker's software or web tool on Windows. When we checked, only the K617 HE cost less, and the X68 HE cost more.
Key dimensions & specs
- Layout: 68-key compact
- Switches: Hall effect magnetic
- Connection: Wired
- Polling rate: 8,000Hz
Pros
- Compact 68-key compact layout
- Magnetic Hall effect switches
- 8,000Hz polling
- Hall effect board at a membrane-keyboard price
Cons
- Wired only
- Costs more than the K617 HE at the time of writing
Best Dynamic Keys5 of 6
Attack Shark X68 HE on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Attack Shark's X68 HE adds dynamic keystrokes, up to four actions per key, to rapid trigger in a 68-key frame.
Best for
- Macro fans.
Skip if
- Skip it if this is a deal-breaker for you: wired only.
Why we like it
It sits near $40 at the time of writing. You get a 65% (68 keys) layout here, which sets it apart from the PRO X TKL Rapid and its a TKL layout. It also comes with an adjustable actuation point.
The X68 HE needs a free USB port, so check cable length to your case or monitor hub. High polling rates use more CPU time; drop to 1,000Hz if an older system stutters. Small layouts move keys to a function layer, so check the legend for arrows and F-keys. Adjusting actuation needs the maker's software or web tool on Windows.
Key dimensions & specs
- Layout: 65% (68 keys)
- Switches: Hall effect magnetic
- Connection: Wired
- Polling rate: 8,000Hz
Pros
- Compact 65% (68 keys) layout
- Magnetic Hall effect switches
- 8,000Hz polling
- Dynamic keystrokes with up to 4 actions per key
Cons
- Wired only
- Costs more than the K617 HE at the time of writing
Lowest Price6 of 6
Redragon K617 HE Magnetic Keyboard on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The K617 HE brings Hall effect switches, rapid trigger and 8000Hz polling to Redragon's 60% frame.
Best for
- Tight budgets.
Skip if
- Worth skipping when no dedicated arrow keys or function ro is a problem.
Why we like it
Calibration runs in a desktop or web app. You get a 60% layout here, which sets it apart from the X68 HE and its a 65% (68 keys) layout. It also offers the lowest price among the 8000Hz boards here.
The K617 HE needs a free USB port, so check cable length to your case or monitor hub. High polling rates use more CPU time; drop to 1,000Hz if an older system stutters. Small layouts move keys to a function layer, so check the legend for arrows and F-keys.
Adjusting actuation needs the maker's software or web tool on Windows. No other pick here cost less at our last price check, and the WIN68 HE was closest. Polling rate is its weakest area, and the Falchion Ace HFX covers it better at 8,000Hz.
Key dimensions & specs
- Layout: 60%
- Switches: Hall effect magnetic
- Connection: Wired
- Polling rate: 8,000Hz
Pros
- Compact 60% layout
- Magnetic Hall effect switches
- 8,000Hz polling
- Rapid trigger
Cons
- No dedicated arrow keys or function row
- Wired only
How We Chose These Magnetic Gaming Keyboards
Each pick was assessed across 4 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- Build
- We noted keycap material, frame material and extra controls such as knobs or screens.
- Layout and switches
- We recorded the layout, the switch type and whether the switches are mechanical, magnetic or membrane.
- Polling rate
- We recorded polling rates where listings state them.
- Connection
- We checked wired, dongle and Bluetooth options and rated battery life.
What to Look for in a Magnetic Gaming Keyboard
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Linear, tactile or magnetic
Linear switches travel smoothly, tactile switches have a bump, and clicky switches add a click. Hall effect switches read a magnet, so actuation can be adjusted and rapid trigger resets a key as soon as it rises.
Polling rate is a small factor
1,000Hz is enough for most players. 8,000Hz cuts reporting delay further, but the gain is small and uses more CPU time.
Choose the layout before the switch
Full-size boards keep the number pad; tenkeyless drops it and gives the mouse more room. 75% and 65% boards keep arrows in a tighter frame, while 60% boards move arrows and F-keys to a function layer.
Wired, dongle or Bluetooth
A 2.4GHz dongle is fine for games; Bluetooth adds latency and suits typing on other devices. Wired boards never need charging.
Hot-swap sockets allow switch changes
Hot-swappable boards let you pull and replace switches without soldering. Check whether the sockets take 3-pin or 5-pin switches.
Keycap material lasts longer than lighting
PBT keycaps resist the shine that ABS caps develop. Double-shot legends do not wear off.
How to Choose a Magnetic Gaming Keyboard
By priority
| Priority | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Full arrows and F-row | K70 PRO TKL | MGX switches with double-shot PBT |
| Compact desks | Falchion Ace HFX | ROG HFX switches with 8000Hz |
| Logitech setups | PRO X TKL Rapid | Hall effect switches in a TKL |
| Budget shooters | WIN68 HE | 8000Hz near $40 |
| Macro fans | X68 HE | Up to 4 actions per key |
| Tight budgets | K617 HE | 8000Hz and rapid trigger near $38 |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Key specs side by side
Figures as each maker states them.
| Keyboard | Layout | Switches | Connection | Polling rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| K70 PRO TKL | TKL | MGX Hall effect magnetic | Wired | Not listed |
| Falchion Ace HFX | 65% | ROG HFX Hall effect magnetic | Wired | 8,000Hz |
| PRO X TKL Rapid | TKL | Hall effect magnetic | Wired | Not listed |
| WIN68 HE | 68-key compact | Hall effect magnetic | Wired | 8,000Hz |
| X68 HE | 65% (68 keys) | Hall effect magnetic | Wired | 8,000Hz |
| K617 HE | 60% | Hall effect magnetic | Wired | 8,000Hz |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
By price at the time of writing
Prices change often; these tiers reflect Amazon prices when this guide was updated.
| Price tier | Keyboards |
|---|---|
| Under $50 | K617 HE, WIN68 HE, X68 HE |
| About $100 to $150 | K70 PRO TKL, Falchion Ace HFX, PRO X TKL Rapid |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I pick tenkeyless or full-size?
Tenkeyless if you want more mouse room and rarely type numbers; full-size if you enter numbers often.
Do I need 8,000Hz polling?
No. It is a marginal gain on top of 1,000Hz and can cost battery life and CPU time.
Is a wireless keyboard slower?
Not over a 2.4GHz dongle for most players. Bluetooth adds more latency and is better kept for other devices.
Do Hall effect switches help in games?
Adjustable actuation and rapid trigger help most in fast strafing games. In slower games the difference is small.
Do these keyboards need software?
They work without it, but lighting, macros and actuation settings usually need the maker's app.
Is a membrane keyboard bad for gaming?
No. It is quieter and cheaper, but it feels softer and usually lacks per-key rollover guarantees beyond what the listing states.
Bottom Line
Corsair's K70 PRO TKL is the pick for a full TKL with double-shot PBT. ASUS's Falchion Ace HFX is the 65% choice, and Redragon's K617 HE is the cheapest.