Keyboards for gaming: build your own controls

Movement, jump, crouch, inventory, abilities, items, chat: list the actions you use and the combinations you need to hold together. Use that list to design your layout in the Zelvoq Configurator. You can dedicate the main layer entirely to gaming, with your regular controls within reach.

For example, keep WASD, put jump and crouch on thumb keys and turn other nearby keys into 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. Even if their keycaps have letters printed on them, those keys will send the numbers you assign.

Each thumb has several keys to use. You can dedicate one to jumping, another to crouching and another to interacting, reloading or an ability. Choose assignments around the actions you use together and the fingers you want to keep on movement.

A layer-switch key can give you another set of controls for inventory, maps, communication or secondary actions. That gives the same physical keys additional functions. Before buying, compare how many actions you want directly available and which ones you would group on another layer.

A macro can send a combination or sequence of keypresses from one key. You can prepare repeated inputs or a key sequence for a combo and assign it to a convenient position. The Zelvoq Configurator includes a macro editor so you can assign them easily.

Test each sequence inside the game and adjust its inputs. A combo also depends on timing and the state of the game. Use these features in line with the rules of the game or tournament.

You can dedicate the main layer to gaming and prepare another layer for typing. A key configured to toggle layers works like a switch: one press activates the chosen layer and another deactivates it. You do not have to hold it down. Keep that function in the same position on both keymaps so you can get back.

Save a copy of your layout before reorganizing it. The configurator can save and load keymaps as well as write changes to the keyboard. Start with your main controls, test them in a practice session, then add macros or secondary actions.

Corne brings 42 keys into a compact layout. Lily58 and Sofle have 58 keys and a physical number row; Sofle adds two knobs. All three let you change assignments. Choose around the number and position of direct controls you want, the thumb keys available and the room you need beside your mouse.

Then choose your color and switches on the product page. When the keyboard arrives, position the halves your way and configure your keymap. You can concentrate frequent actions on the half you use while gaming and keep the remaining keys for chat, menus or other tasks.