RGB Keyboards vs. Backlit Keyboards: What’s the Difference?

In today’s mechanical keyboard market, RGB keyboards and backlit keyboards are two common options. For those looking to enhance their typing or gaming experience, understanding the difference between these two is crucial. This article will break down their differences and help you choose the right one.

What Is an RGB Keyboard?

RGB keyboard displaying different lighting effects

An RGB keyboard can emit red, green, and blue light. By combining these three primary colors, an RGB keyboard can display millions of colors. This type of keyboard is popular among gamers and DIY mechanical keyboard enthusiasts because of its fully customizable lighting effects and even dynamic lighting options.

Key Features of RGB Keyboards:

Colorful Lighting Effects: Supports a wide range of color variations, allowing different colors for individual keys.
Dynamic Effects: Offers various cool lighting modes, such as wave, breathing, reactive, etc.
Highly Customizable: Users can design custom lighting layouts and effects through software.

What Is a Backlit Keyboard?

A backlit keyboard is designed primarily to provide better visibility in low-light environments. The lighting is usually in a single color, such as white, red, or blue. Backlit keyboards focus more on practicality than on personalized lighting displays.

Key Features of Backlit Keyboards:

Limited Color Options: Usually has a single fixed color like white or blue.
Simple Brightness Adjustment: Users can adjust the brightness based on ambient light but cannot change the color or effects.
Functionality First: The design is intended to improve typing visibility in dark environments rather than showcase lighting effects.

Main Differences Between RGB and Backlit Keyboards

Feature	RGB Keyboard	Backlit Keyboard
Color Options	Millions of colors available	Typically a single or limited color
Customization	Fully customizable through software	Generally not customizable, with basic brightness adjustment
Lighting Effects	Supports dynamic effects like wave and breathing	Usually static lighting for illumination only
Target Audience	Gamers, DIY enthusiasts, and keyboard modders	Users who need simple illumination in dark environments

How to Choose the Right Keyboard for You

If you are a gamer: An RGB keyboard is the better choice, especially if you enjoy enhancing the gaming atmosphere with lighting or need to assign different functions to keys using lighting.
If you focus on practicality: A backlit keyboard is sufficient for everyday use, particularly for those who work or study in low-light environments.

Whether you're after personalized customization or practical functionality, understanding the difference between RGB and backlit keyboards can help you make an informed choice. If you want a keyboard that showcases creativity and enhances the aesthetic of your desk setup, an RGB keyboard is the way to go. However, if you just need better visibility when typing in the dark, a backlit keyboard will suit your needs perfectly.