Key Rollover Test
Directions: Type some keys.
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What Is Key Rollover?
Key rollover refers to the number of keys a keyboard can detect and register at the same time. For example:
2KRO (2-key rollover): Only two keys can be pressed simultaneously.
6KRO (6-key rollover): Up to six keys can be pressed at once.
NKRO (N-key rollover): Every key can be pressed simultaneously without issues.
If you exceed the rollover limit, your keyboard may:
Ghost: Register a key you didn’t press.
Block: Ignore some keypresses to prevent ghosting.
Why Does Key Rollover Matter?
Gaming: Fast-paced games require multiple key presses (e.g., WASD + Shift + Space).
Typing: Fast typists may press keys before releasing previous ones.
Shortcuts: Complex commands (Ctrl+Alt+Del) need reliable detection.
Types of Key Rollover
1. 2-Key Rollover (2KRO)
Found in budget keyboards.
Fails with three-key combinations (e.g., Ctrl+Shift+A).
2. 6-Key Rollover (6KRO)
Common in mid-range keyboards.
Works for most gaming and typing needs.
3. N-Key Rollover (NKRO)
Found in high-end mechanical keyboards.
Every key is individually scanned, eliminating ghosting.
How to Test Your Keyboard’s Key Rollover
Method 1: Online Key Rollover Test Tools
Several websites let you test your keyboard’s rollover:
Mechanical-Keyboard.org – Shows pressed keys in real-time.
KeyboardTester.io – Tracks simultaneous key presses.
Zhouer.org – Checks for NKRO support.
Steps:
Open the test page.
Press multiple keys at once.
Check if all inputs register correctly.
Method 2: Manual Typing Test
Hold both Shift keys and type:
“The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.”
If letters are missing (e.g., “TE UIC RWN FOX”), your keyboard has rollover limitations.
Method 3: Specialized Software
Aqua Key Test (Windows): Detects real keypresses, not simulated ones.
PassMark KeyboardTest (Windows): Paid tool with advanced diagnostics.
Best Keyboards for High Rollover Performance
If your current keyboard fails rollover tests, consider upgrading to:
Gaming Keyboards:
Razer Huntsman Elite (NKRO)
Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT (6KRO+)
Typing Keyboards:
Das Keyboard 4 Professional (NKRO)
Leopold FC750R (NKRO).
Testing your keyboard’s rollover ensures smooth typing and gaming. If your current keyboard struggles with multi-key inputs, consider upgrading to a mechanical model with NKRO. Use the tools and methods above to check your keyboard’s performance today!
FAQ: Key Rollover Testing
1. What’s the difference between NKRO and anti-ghosting?
NKRO: No limit on simultaneous key presses.
Anti-ghosting: Prevents false inputs but may still have key limits.
2. Does USB limit key rollover?
Yes, USB has a 6KRO limit unless the keyboard uses advanced firmware. PS/2 connections support full NKRO.
3. Can I improve my keyboard’s rollover?
No, rollover depends on hardware. If your keyboard fails tests, consider upgrading.
4. Do wireless keyboards support NKRO?
Most don’t due to signal limitations, but some high-end models (e.g., Logitech G915) offer near-NKRO performance.
5. Is NKRO necessary for typing?
Not usually—6KRO is sufficient. NKRO is best for gaming and stenography.