What Is NKRO ( N-Key Rollover) ?

NKRO or N-key rollover is a popular feature of many mechanical keyboards. The keys can be pressed at the same time and each press will register, making it perfect for gamers who need to press multiple keys at the same time.

Types of N-Key Rollover

Mechanical keyboards have various types of n-key rollover. The most common options are shown below:

NKRO (full n-key rollover)
2KRO (2-key rollover)
6KRO (6-key rollover)
10KRO (10-key rollover)
14KRO (14-key rollover)

What Does N-Key Rollover Do?

If your keyboard has NKRO, it means that each key you press is registered individually. So if you press three keys simultaneously in a text document, the document will be able to display the three different character keys.

There can be limitations on the number of keys you can press simultaneously. This limit is represented by the ‘N’ in N-key rollover being replaced with a number, for example, 6KRO ( 6-key rollover).

NKRO ( N-Key Rollover) Can Benefit You

If you’re interested in getting a mechanical keyboard, then others that offer n-key rollover are worth getting.

Even a more affordable mechanical keyboard can use N-key Rollover. It’s just up to you to decide whether a mechanical keyboard is a right choice for you. If you’re a typist or gamer, it pays to spend a little extra on an NKRO keyboard to ensure accurate typing and fluid gameplay.

Which Keyboards Feature NKRO?

NKRO was only available with PS/2 connectors previously, but that connector is now far less common. It is possible to use PS/2-based NKRO keyboards on modern setups though, by getting an adapter. Most new mechanical keyboards include NKRO standard and don’t require adapters or special hardware (just plug-and-play).

How to Test NKRO on Your Keyboard

Beyond checking the specifications for what NKRO your keyboard has, you can check this by using a word processing application (such as Microsoft Word)

So, to start: press two keys simultaneously then increase this by one. You should find that the key presses on your screen match the key presses you are pressing.

If you are not able to detect when more than one key is pressed, check your keyboard settings. Some keyboards require activation of their NKRO function using a special key combination or via the keyboard’s software.

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