Best Full-Size Mechanical Keyboard to Amp Your Gaming Needs [2023]

Full-size keyboards, often overshadowed by their compact counterparts, hold a special place in the hearts of many users.

If you're among those who cherish the traditional layout and can't imagine parting with your trusty num-pad, this article is tailor-made for you. Here are the top choices that you might try soon.

Asus ROG Strix Scope 2 RX

The Asus ROG Strix Scope 2 RX brings innovation to the classic full-size layout. It boasts a beautifully designed multi-function wheel in the upper right corner, offering a unique twist to the conventional design.

This wheel serves various functions, including volume adjustment and muting. But here's the exciting part: you can tap on the Asus logo to the left of the wheel to switch its function. Tiny LED-lit symbols above the arrow keys indicate your chosen function, ranging from media controls to backlighting adjustments.

Moreover, this keyboard features water and dust-resistant optical switches beneath every key, making it durable and reliable. It's the epitome of a high-end mechanical keyboard in 2023, with pre-lubed switches, sound-dampening foam, and premium PBT keycaps (note that some regions may receive ABS keycaps instead).

Asus has chosen to stick with its classic black-and-RGB design, which resonates with users who prefer a timeless aesthetic. The Strix Scope 2 RX successfully combines innovation and tradition, making it an excellent choice for full-size keyboard enthusiasts.

Corsair K70 Core

The Corsair K70 Core presents a compelling "full-size gaming keyboard for 2023." It features a multi-function control dial that can adjust volume, and LED brightness, scroll vertically or horizontally, and zoom in and out.

While these controls are practical, switching between them requires pressing Fn+F12 and deciphering the color of the briefly flashing F12 key—an aspect that could be improved for a more user-friendly experience.

Beyond the multi-function dial, the K70 Core is thoughtfully designed. It incorporates features like pre-lubed switches and sound-dampening foam, aligning with the standards of 2023 mechanical keyboards. However, a regional discrepancy arises here, with US boards boasting double-shot keycaps while others receive printed legend ABS keycaps—a cost-effective measure for low-volume regions.

The keyboard's design is a highlight, with refined yellow and triangular motifs that have become a Corsair trademark. Notably, the aluminum case, 'floating' keycaps, and magnetic soft-touch palm rest add to its appeal. Corsair's powerful iCUE software facilitates custom lighting schemes and key remapping. The only drawback is the non-detachable cable, which doesn't match the board's overall quality.

With an attractive £90/$100 RRP, the K70 Core is a solid choice, poised to become an even better deal during Black Friday sales.

Melgeek Modern97

The Melgeek Modern97 is a keyboard that commands attention with its eye-catching speckled case and distinctive design elements.

Sporting a 90 percent layout, and blue, honey-gold, and white keycaps, this keyboard boasts a slew of features. It combines multiple layers of foam with RGB lighting and employs gasket-mounted, hot-swappable, and pre-lubed Kailh Sonic53 'gamer' switches.

What sets the Modern97 apart is its versatility. It supports 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth, and USB-C connectivity, making it compatible with various devices. The keyboard offers direct adjustments, but Melgeek's Hive software provides additional customization options, adding a touch of luxury to this boutique brand.

Interestingly, even the packaging aligns with the keyboard's nature-inspired aesthetics. It's crafted from natural materials like bamboo and sugarcane fiber, boasting a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional materials like plastic and cardboard.

Typing and gaming on the Modern97 are a breeze, thanks to its soft and linear switches. With NKRO (n-key rollover) support, you can press all keys simultaneously, making it ideal for music games and local multiplayer titles.