If you want a gaming keyboard with a USB port for a mouse or another peripheral, look for an explicitly documented USB passthrough connection. Our shortlist is the full-size Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro for extra controls, the Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 for a linear-switch layout with media controls, and the original Logitech G413 Carbon for a simpler tactile keyboard. Each needs a separate host connection to make its passthrough port work.
We compared manufacturer documentation and identifiable configurations. We have not measured these keyboards’ latency, sound, durability or charging performance. These recommendations describe useful feature combinations; they are not a hands-on ranking or a claim that every attached USB device will work.
Compare the three keyboards
| Exact model | Why choose it? | What to plan for |
|---|---|---|
| Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro, full-size, Green switches, Black | Clicky switches, command dial and dedicated macro controls | Two host cables; USB 2.0 Type-A passthrough |
| Corsair K70 RGB MK.2, CHERRY MX Red, CH-9109010-NA | Linear switches, RGB and separate media controls | Two host plugs; USB 2.0 Type-A passthrough |
| Logitech G413 Carbon, 920-008300 | Romer-G tactile switches and single-color red lighting | Two host plugs; media shortcuts use function keys |
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro: best for extra controls
Choose the full-size wired V4 Pro if you will use its command dial, five dedicated macro keys and three side macro buttons. The selected Black model has Green tactile, clicky switches. That is a switch-feel choice, not a measured speed advantage. Consider how the audible click will fit a shared room or an open microphone before ordering.
The V4 Pro manual shows a USB 2.0 Type-A accessory port and two USB-C connections for the host cables. One operates the keyboard; the second supplies the passthrough path. Connect both supplied USB-A-to-USB-C cables when using that accessory port. Razer specifically excludes devices requiring higher voltages or USB 3.0, giving external hard drives as an example.
The buying trade-off is desk space and setup complexity. Make sure the extra controls earn their place beside your mouse, and check the current Synapse requirements before relying on custom assignments. Compare the Green-switch US-layout model RZ03-04680200-R3U1; nearby BlackWidow names and compact layouts need their own documentation.
Corsair K70 RGB MK.2: best for linear switches and media controls
The CH-9109010-NA configuration uses CHERRY MX Red linear switches, a full-size layout, RGB backlighting, a volume roller and dedicated media buttons. It also includes a detachable wrist rest. We would choose it when those familiar controls matter more than an additional bank of macro keys. Linear describes the switch action; it does not guarantee that your typing will be silent.
Corsair documents a USB 2.0 Type-A passthrough port for a mouse or headset. Its quick-start guide asks for the keyboard connector in a USB 3.0 host port, with the separate passthrough connector in another USB 2.0 or 3.0 port. The accessory port remains USB 2.0 even when connected to a faster host socket.
Check the manufacturer’s exact CH-9109010-NA model and confirm the layout on the seller’s listing. Corsair’s model names cover different switches and generations; “K70” alone is insufficient. The manual also documents up to three onboard profiles, created and saved with iCUE, for taking supported settings between computers.
Logitech G413 Carbon: best for a simpler tactile setup
The original G413 Carbon combines Romer-G tactile switches, red backlighting and a full-size layout. Its media functions use FN shortcuts. This is our choice if you want a tactile feel and a straightforward illuminated keyboard without choosing RGB effects. The recommendation is for model 920-008300; check the complete name and part number when comparing similarly named G413 versions.
Logitech G413 Carbon Mechanical Keyboard, Romer-G Tactile, 920-008300
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Logitech’s connection instructions say to connect both USB cables for a working passthrough port. With only the plug marked with a keyboard symbol connected, the keyboard can work while the extra port remains unavailable. Its dedicated second connection is useful for bringing an otherwise awkward-to-reach computer port onto the desk.
Check these details before buying
Read the port description carefully. A keyboard’s USB connection to the computer, or a socket used to recharge a wireless keyboard, does not establish that it can connect another device. For these picks, the manuals or manufacturer support pages explicitly describe the downstream passthrough function. That is the evidence to look for on any alternative.
Count the host connections you can actually spare. These keyboards relocate access to a USB connection rather than turning one computer port into several. If your laptop has only USB-C sockets, include suitable data adapters or a compatible dock in the plan and check its requirements. A separate USB hub may be a better purchase if your real goal is connecting several peripherals.
Match the attached device to the documented port. Do not budget around fast phone charging or external-SSD performance without explicit support for those uses. For storage or devices with demanding power requirements, follow that device’s connection instructions. Razer’s stated restriction is particularly relevant here; the convenience port should not be treated as a universal dock.
Check the operating system and current configuration software before paying for programmable features. Basic key input, lighting customization, macros and onboard playback can have different requirements. If you cannot install software on a work or tournament computer, establish which settings can be prepared and retained elsewhere. Also confirm that your game’s rules permit the macros you intend to use.
Choose the switch feel and layout you want before comparing extras. Check the actual key legends, Enter key shape, number pad and space left for mouse movement. Ask the seller to resolve conflicting model or layout details before ordering. Use the return period to check the keyboard and your intended peripheral together; an attractive specification list cannot settle personal typing preference.
Frequently asked questions
Which of these keyboards is best for a mouse passthrough connection?
All three document functional passthrough. Choose Razer for more controls, Corsair for its linear MX Red configuration and media buttons, or the G413 Carbon for tactile switches with simple red lighting. Confirm the mouse’s own connection requirements.
Why does the keyboard have two USB plugs?
One connects the keyboard and the other connects its passthrough port to the computer. Both are needed when using that extra port. Check the labels and the model’s setup diagram if the keyboard works but the peripheral does not.
Does a USB-C socket mean the keyboard has passthrough?
No. Connector shape alone does not describe its role. On the full-size V4 Pro, the manual distinguishes two USB-C host connections from the USB-A accessory port. Look for an explicit passthrough description and wiring instructions.
Will passthrough make my mouse faster?
We have no measured performance advantage to claim. Choose it for convenient placement and cable routing, then verify that your mouse works as intended. Use a direct computer connection if the peripheral’s manufacturer requires one.
Can these replace a powered USB hub?
They offer one conveniently placed accessory connection each. If you need several ports, specified charging power or high-speed storage connectivity, compare a suitable hub or dock separately. Check both the host and peripheral requirements before choosing.
