A good gaming keyboard doesn't have to sound like a bag of angry marbles. Some people want lightning-quick magnetic switches; others just want a comfortable board with room for their mouse. And if your desk is already fighting for space, size matters almost as much as the switches.
We've gone digging through the Jabba Reviews archive to find four keyboards worth a closer look. These are picks from our previously published reviews, not a fresh head-to-head test in 2026. Original scores and specifications reflect the versions reviewed, mostly in 2024. Check current stock, layouts, software support and prices before buying.
The quick picks
- For adjustable gaming inputs: Epomaker HE75 Mag — compact, with Hall Effect switches and customisable actuation.
- For full-size wired gaming: CHERRY XTRFY MX 3.1 — a substantial aluminium board with CHERRY MX2A switches.
- For a smaller wireless setup: RK Royal Kludge R65 — a 65% layout with several connection options.
- For compact, budget-minded tinkering: CIDOO QK61 — a 60% board with hot-swappable switches.
Epomaker HE75 Mag — for gamers who like to fine-tune everything
Want to tell your keyboard exactly how far a key should move before it registers? That's the HE75 Mag's party trick. Its magnetic Hall Effect switches offer adjustable actuation, from 0.1mm to 4.0mm as described in our original review. The 75% layout keeps the arrows but ditches the bulky full-size footprint.
The review also covers a swappable knob module, RGB lighting and wired, 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connections. It's a flexible bit of kit, although the ABS case won't give you the same all-metal feel as some premium alternatives.
Good for: Competitive players and keyboard tinkerers who want more control over key sensitivity. Worth knowing: The quoted battery life assumes backlighting is switched off.
Read the full Epomaker HE75 Mag review for the original 9.5/10 verdict.
CHERRY XTRFY MX 3.1 — full-size and ready for a marathon session
Not everybody wants a tiny keyboard. The MX 3.1 goes in the opposite direction, with a full-size layout, an aluminium housing and CHERRY MX2A switches. It's wired, so you won't be hunting for a battery warning in the middle of a match.
The original review praises its sturdy build, adjustable typing angle and colourful RGB options. CHERRY's current product specifications also list anti-ghosting and N-key rollover. The trade-off? There's no palm rest included, and it takes more desk space than the compact boards here.
Good for: Anyone who wants a familiar full-size layout and doesn't mind a cable.
See the CHERRY XTRFY MX 3.1 review and its original 9/10 score.
RK Royal Kludge R65 — a compact wireless option
The RK R65 is for people who like their desk tidy but don't fancy losing absolutely every useful key. Its 65% layout retains the arrow keys, while wired USB-C, 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth connections give it flexibility.
Our 2024 review also describes hot-swappable linear switches, a volume knob and keyboard customisation through QMK/VIA. Smooth linear switches aren't everyone's cup of tea, so think about your preferred typing feel before choosing.
Good for: A small gaming desk, shared work setup or anyone switching between devices.
Head to our RK R65 review for the original 9/10 score.
CIDOO QK61 — small keyboard, big tinkering potential
If you like experimenting with switches and RGB without giving up half your desk, the CIDOO QK61 is worth a look. Its 60% layout makes it especially compact, while hot-swappable switches give you room to personalise the feel.
Our review describes PBT keycaps, Bluetooth 5.0 and USB-C wired use. It also notes that the software isn't always perfectly polished and that battery life drops when you turn up the lighting. Tiny layouts take practice, too — especially if you're used to function keys and a number pad.
Good for: Beginners exploring mechanical keyboards or anyone building a minimalist setup.
Read the CIDOO QK61 review for the original 8.5/10 verdict.
Which gaming keyboard should you choose?
Start with your layout, not the lighting. Full-size keyboards are handy if you use a number pad. A 75% or 65% board keeps more mouse space free, while 60% boards take the minimalist idea further. Then decide whether you want adjustable magnetic switches, a traditional mechanical feel or wireless flexibility.
And don't forget to check the UK key layout when shopping — an older review may feature a different regional version.
If you're still undecided, browse more gaming gear reviews or all computer hardware reviews. There are plenty more rabbit holes to go down.
About this guide: Based on Jabba Reviews articles originally published in 2024. It is an archive comparison, not a new controlled test or a guarantee of current availability. Product features, prices and software may have changed.
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This article was originally published on 13 Nov 2026. Product specifications, prices and availability may have changed. We sometimes receive review products and may earn commission through affiliate links. We are not obliged to publish a positive review. How we review and disclose partnerships.
