This magnetic gaming keyboard has claimed the top spot from SteelSeries as 2025 comes to a close.

December is shaping up to be a fantastic month for gaming keyboards. Just last year, my top pick for much of 2025 debuted with the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 hitting the market during the holiday season. Now, Corsair is making waves with a similar launch.

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 has quickly climbed to the top of my list of the best gaming keyboards I’ve tested. This fully magnetic Hall effect keyboard packs all the number pad and macro button features you’d expect from a full-sized model, but in a compact 96% layout. With some of the best switches I’ve encountered, textured PBT keycaps, and a soft, cushy wrist rest, it’s a standout choice.

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 is currently priced at $229.99. While that’s a premium price, it competes well with the more luxurious options available in 2025.

At $229.99, the Vanguard Pro 96 is certainly an investment for a gaming keyboard. However, if you’ve been saving for a high-end magnetic model, this price is only slightly above that of the SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3. It’s a far cry from the staggering $419.99 price tag of the Asus ROG Falcata.

If you’re looking to upgrade to adjustable magnetic switches before 2026, this keyboard is worth considering. I wasn’t overly impressed with the first generation of Corsair’s MGX switches when I tried them in the K70 Pro TKL earlier this year, but the Vanguard features the second generation, which ranks just below the premium ROG HFX V2s found in the Falcata.

These switches deliver a smooth, clacky feel reminiscent of mechanical keyboards, while many Hall effect models I’ve tested tend to feel a bit mushy, with too much resistance for comfort during extended gaming sessions. The Vanguard Pro 96 strikes a balance, offering a customizable experience without sacrificing the tactile satisfaction of a mechanical keyboard.

The 96% form factor is a rarity in the gaming keyboard scene, yet many gamers still want to keep their number pads. The Vanguard excels here, providing the best of both worlds. While SteelSeries’ TKL design eliminates a significant number of keys and the Razer BlackWidow V4 crams in every feature imaginable (at the cost of mouse space), Corsair has found a sweet spot.

When I first set up the Vanguard, I was surprised to discover the number pad; its shape led me to initially think it was a 75% model. The compact design does take some adjustment, especially with the arrow keys being a bit awkwardly positioned. However, I quickly adapted to the layout, even if I occasionally needed to glance down at those directional buttons.

Additionally, you retain the extra controls typical of larger macro-focused keyboards. The five customizable keys are conveniently placed along the left side, angled slightly to prevent accidental presses. These extra buttons are becoming increasingly rare.

So, how did Corsair manage to outshine SteelSeries?

The Vanguard Pro 96 offers more functionality than the Apex Pro TKL Gen 3 while maintaining a slim profile and a comparable price.

All keys are fully magnetic, providing a smoother, lower-resistance typing experience, whereas the Apex Pro uses its heavier Hall effect switches only on the main alpha keys.

The Vanguard also includes more control options with its number pad and dedicated macro buttons, features that SteelSeries’ model lacks.

Both keyboards boast high-quality PBT keycaps, a wired connection (though a wireless version of the Apex Pro is available), and dedicated volume controls.

You won’t need to download extra software to customize the Corsair; it’s all configurable through a simple web-based app. SteelSeries does have an edge with its OLED display.

Both keyboards feature an OLED panel in the top right corner, but Corsair’s version can only display images, while SteelSeries’ can show notifications and system information in black and white.

I’m also compiling a list of the best wireless gaming keyboards and the best hot-swappable keyboards of the year. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, check out the best membrane keyboards available.