A Complete Guide to USB Passthrough on Mechanical Keyboards

Innovative computer peripherals continue to redefine our computing experiences. One such innovation that has gained prominence in recent years is the USB passthrough feature on keyboards. This unassuming but incredibly practical addition has the power to transform the way we interact with our computers.

In this guide, we explore USB passthroughs integrated into keyboards, exploring what they are, how they work, and the myriad advantages they bring to the table. Whether you're a gamer seeking an edge in performance, a creative professional looking to streamline your workflow, or simply someone who values convenience in everyday computing, this guide will provide you with the knowledge you need to harness the full potential of USB passthroughs.

We'll also discuss the intricacies of USB passthroughs, examine their compatibility with different keyboards, troubleshoot common issues, and even explore a selection of keyboards known for this feature. 

What is a USB Passthrough on a Keyboard?

You're probably wondering about the USB Passthrough feature on some keyboards and its advantages. You'll find it intriguing how this feature works, not just in theory but also with different keyboard types.

Understanding USB Passthrough

A USB passthrough, often referred to as a USB pass-through port or simply a passthrough, is a feature commonly found on some computer keyboards, particularly gaming and high-end mechanical keyboards. It allows you to connect USB devices, such as a gaming mouse, gaming headset, USB drive, or smartphone, directly to the keyboard itself, essentially extending the availability of USB ports from your computer to your keyboard.

Advantages of USB Passthrough on a Keyboard

USB passthroughs on keyboards offer several advantages that can enhance your computing experience. 

1. Convenience: One of the primary advantages of a USB passthrough is convenience. It eliminates the need to reach around your computer or deal with cable clutter on your desk. You can easily connect and disconnect USB devices right at your keyboard, making it more user-friendly.
2. Reduced Cable Clutter: USB passthroughs help in decluttering your workspace. Instead of having multiple cables trailing from your computer to various peripherals, you can keep your desk neater by connecting devices directly to your keyboard.
3. Improved Gaming Experience: Gamers often benefit the most from USB passthroughs. These ports allow you to connect gaming peripherals like mice, headsets, or controllers directly to your keyboard. This can reduce cable tangling and minimize input lag, leading to a smoother and more responsive gaming experience.
4. Enhanced Productivity: For productivity-focused users, USB passthroughs make it easy to connect USB flash drives, external hard drives, or other peripherals without having to access your computer's ports. This can save time and simplify tasks like data transfer or charging your smartphone.
5. Accessibility: Placing USB ports on the keyboard can be more accessible for individuals with limited mobility or those who have difficulty reaching behind their computer. It can make connecting and disconnecting devices more manageable.
6. Multitasking: USB passthroughs enable multitasking. You can connect multiple USB devices simultaneously, allowing you to switch between tasks and peripherals more efficiently.
7. Customization: Some keyboards with USB passthroughs offer additional customization options. For example, you might be able to assign specific functions to the USB passthrough, control the power supply to connected devices, or program keyboard shortcuts to manage the passthrough.
8. Port Speeds: Depending on the keyboard model, USB passthroughs may support different USB standards, such as USB 2.0, USB 3.0, or USB-C. This means you can take advantage of faster data transfer speeds if your keyboard supports higher USB standards.
9. Charging Capabilities: USB passthroughs can serve as charging ports for devices like smartphones or tablets. This can be handy if you need a quick charge without leaving your desk.
10. Peripheral Management: Having USB passthroughs on the keyboard allows you to keep a closer eye on the connected peripherals. You can quickly identify which devices are connected and monitor their status.

How does USB Passthrough work on a Keyboard?

USB passthrough on a keyboard works by essentially extending the USB connectivity from your computer to the keyboard itself. It involves the integration of USB ports into the keyboard to allow multiple USB devices directly to the keyboard. 

1. The keyboard is equipped with one or more USB ports, typically located on one of its sides or at the back. These ports are designed to look and function like standard USB ports you find on a computer.
2. Inside the keyboard, there is a USB hub or controller. This component manages the USB connections between your computer and the devices connected to the keyboard's passthrough ports.
3. The keyboard itself is connected to your computer via a USB cable. This connection serves two purposes: it powers the keyboard and allows it to communicate with your computer.
4. When you plug a USB device (e.g., a mouse, headset, USB drive) into one of the passthrough ports on the keyboard, the USB hub inside the keyboard establishes a connection with the device.
5. Data is transferred between your computer and the connected USB device through the keyboard's internal USB hub. The keyboard acts as a bridge, relaying the data back and forth between the computer and the device.
6. The keyboard communicates with your computer, ensuring that the connected device is recognized and functions correctly. Your computer treats the device as if it were directly connected to one of its USB ports.
7. In addition to data transfer, the keyboard's USB passthrough can also supply power to connected devices, such as charging a smartphone or powering a small gadget.
8. In some cases, the keyboard's USB passthrough may require specific drivers or software to function correctly. This software helps manage the passthrough and ensures compatibility with your operating system.

Compatibility of USB Passthrough with Different Keyboards

Being built-in features of certain keyboards, USB passthroughs are generally not compatible with different keyboards. Here are a few reasons why USB passthroughs are not typically compatible across different keyboards:

1. Hardware Integration: USB passthroughs are physically integrated into the design of the keyboard. The USB hub or ports are part of the keyboard's internal circuitry. This means that the presence or absence of a USB passthrough is determined by the manufacturer during the keyboard's design and manufacturing process.
2. Driver and Software Dependencies: Some keyboards with USB passthroughs may require specific drivers or software to operate the passthrough properly. These drivers are usually designed for that specific keyboard model and may not work with other keyboards.
3. Physical Form and Design: The location, type, and number of USB passthrough ports can vary from one keyboard to another. These design choices are specific to each keyboard model, making it challenging to create a one-size-fits-all USB passthrough that would work with different keyboards.
4. USB Standards: Different keyboards may support different USB standards for their passthrough ports, such as USB 2.0, USB 3.0, or USB-C. Compatibility with various USB standards can also vary.
5. Power Requirements: Some USB passthroughs may have limitations regarding the power they can supply to connected devices. If you connect power-hungry devices, like external hard drives, the keyboard's passthrough may not provide sufficient power.

How to Use USB Passthrough on a Keyboard?

Let's dive into the practical side of USB Passthrough on a keyboard. In this section, you'll learn how to set it up and connect your devices. You'll also get the hang of troubleshooting common issues that might come up.

Setting up USB Passthrough on a Keyboard

Setting up a USB passthrough on your keyboard can significantly streamline your workspace by enabling you to connect additional devices directly into the keyboard. Setting up your keyboard's USB passthrough involves a few straightforward steps. 

1. Gather your equipment.
   • Your keyboard with USB passthrough ports.
   • The USB devices you want to connect (e.g., mouse, headset, USB drive).
   • A USB cable for connecting your keyboard to your computer (if it's not already connected).
2. Connect your keyboard to your computer.
   • If your keyboard is not already connected to your computer, plug it in using the USB cable provided with the keyboard. Ensure a secure connection to a working USB port on your computer.
3. Turn your computer on.
   • Ensure your computer is powered on and running your preferred operating system (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux).
4. Connect USB devices to your keyboard:
   • Locate the USB passthrough port(s) on your keyboard. These ports are often located on the sides or back of the keyboard.
   • Plug your USB devices (e.g., mouse, headset, USB drive) into the passthrough port(s) on your keyboard.
5. Wait for device recognition.
   • Once you connect a USB device to the passthrough port on your keyboard, your computer should recognize it as if it were connected directly to a USB port on the computer.
6. Install drivers if necessary.
   • In some cases, especially if you're using advanced peripherals, you may need to install specific drivers or software provided by the device manufacturer. Check the manufacturer's website for the latest drivers or software updates.

7. Configure device settings if necessary.
   • Depending on the devices you've connected, you may need to adjust settings or customize their functionality through the operating system or any accompanying software.
8. Test connectivity and functionality.
   • Ensure that the connected USB devices work correctly. Test your keyboard, mouse, headset, or any other peripherals to make sure they function as expected.
9. Additional considerations.
   • Some keyboards with USB passthrough may have additional features or customization options for the passthrough. Refer to your keyboard's user manual or the manufacturer's website for more details.

Most USB passthroughs should work plug-and-play without the need for extensive setup. However, for optimal performance and compatibility, it's good practice to keep your keyboard's firmware and drivers up-to-date. Additionally, make sure your operating system is also updated to the latest version for seamless USB passthrough functionality.

Troubleshooting USB Passthrough Issues

So, you've connected your devices to the Passthrough Port, relishing the convenience and flexibility it brings. But what if things don't work as planned? 

USB passthrough issues can occasionally arise and troubleshooting them can help ensure a smooth experience. Here are some common USB passthrough issues and how to troubleshoot them:

1. Device Not Recognized

Issue: The USB device connected to the keyboard's passthrough port is not recognized by the computer.

Troubleshooting Steps

• Ensure the USB device is properly connected to the keyboard's passthrough port.
• Try connecting the USB device directly to a USB port on the computer to check if it's recognized. If not, the issue may be with the device itself.
• Test the passthrough port with other USB devices to see if the problem is specific to one device or the port itself.
• Update or reinstall the drivers for the USB device, if applicable.
• Check if the USB passthrough is enabled in your computer's BIOS or UEFI settings.

2. Slow Data Transfer Speed

Issue: You're experiencing slow data transfer speeds when using the USB passthrough.

Troubleshooting Steps

• Ensure that you're using a USB passthrough port that supports the desired USB standard (e.g., USB 3.0 for faster speeds).
• Make sure the USB cable you're using to connect your keyboard to the computer is in good condition and capable of supporting the desired data transfer speed.
• Check for background applications or processes that may be consuming system resources and affecting data transfer speeds.
• Try connecting the USB device directly to a computer USB port to see if the issue persists. If it does, the issue may be with the USB device or cable.
• Update your USB drivers and motherboard chipset drivers to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.

3. Keyboard Disconnects or Malfunctions

Issue: When using the USB passthrough, the keyboard intermittently disconnects or malfunctions.

Troubleshooting Steps

• Ensure that the USB cable connecting the keyboard to the computer is securely plugged in. A loose connection can cause intermittent disconnects.
• Test the keyboard on a different computer to see if the issue persists. If it does, the problem may be with the keyboard itself.
• Check for physical damage to the USB ports on both the keyboard and computer.
• Update the keyboard's firmware and drivers, if available from the manufacturer.
• If the issue continues, contact the keyboard manufacturer's customer support for further assistance or possible warranty claims.

4. Power Issues

Issue: Some USB devices may not receive sufficient power when connected to the USB passthrough, causing them to malfunction or not charge.

Troubleshooting Steps

• Check the power requirements of the USB device. Some devices, especially high-power peripherals like external hard drives, may require more power than the passthrough can provide.
• Use a powered USB hub between the keyboard's passthrough port and the power-hungry device.
• If possible, connect power-hungry devices directly to your computer's USB ports rather than using the passthrough.

5. Compatibility Issues

Issue: Certain USB devices may not work correctly with the keyboard's passthrough.

Troubleshooting Steps

• Check the compatibility of the USB device with the keyboard's passthrough and your computer's USB standards.
• Ensure that you're using the latest drivers or firmware for both the keyboard and the USB device.
• Visit the manufacturer's website or user manual for any specific compatibility recommendations.

If you encounter persistent issues with your USB passthrough, consider checking for firmware or driver updates for both your keyboard and computer motherboard. Consulting with the manufacturer's support team can often provide specific solutions to common issues related to your particular keyboard model.

Best Keyboards with USB Passthrough

Let's discuss some of the best keyboards with USB passthrough.

1. Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT

• Switch Options: Cherry MX RGB
• Backlighting: Per-key RGB
• Dedicated Macro Keys: 6 programmable keys
• USB Passthrough: USB 2.0
• Other Features: Aluminum frame, customizable RGB lighting, detachable wrist rest, dedicated media controls.

2. Logitech G Pro X Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

• Switch Options: Hot-swappable
• Backlighting: Per-key RGB
• USB Passthrough: USB 2.0
• Other Features: Compact design, customizable key switches, detachable cable, LIGHTSYNC RGB lighting.

3. Razer BlackWidow Elite

• Switch Options: Razer Mechanical Switches
• Backlighting: Razer Chroma RGB
• USB Passthrough: USB 2.0
• Other Features: Magnetic wrist rest, dedicated media controls, customizable RGB lighting.

4. SteelSeries Apex Pro

• Switch Options: Adjustable OmniPoint switches
• Backlighting: Per-key RGB
• USB Passthrough: USB 2.0
• Other Features: Aircraft-grade aluminum frame, customizable RGB lighting, customizable actuation settings.

5. HyperX Alloy Elite RGB

• Switch Options: Cherry MX
• Backlighting: Per-key RGB
• USB Passthrough: USB 2.0
• Other Features: Solid steel frame, dedicated media controls, customizable lighting effects.

6. ASUS ROG Strix Scope RX

• Switch Options: ROG RX Red Optical Mechanical Switches
• Backlighting: Per-key RGB
• USB Passthrough: USB 2.0
• Other Features: Alloy top plate, customizable RGB lighting, quick-toggle switch.

7. Corsair K70 RGB MK.2

• Switch Options: Cherry MX RGB
• Backlighting: Per-key RGB
• USB Passthrough: USB 2.0
• Other Features: Aircraft-grade aluminum frame, dedicated media controls, customizable RGB lighting.

8. Ducky One 2 Mini

• Switch Options: Various Cherry MX options
• Backlighting: RGB
• USB Passthrough: USB-C
• Other Features: Compact 60% layout, detachable USB-C cable, customizable keycaps (PBT Double-shot).

9. Cooler Master MK850

• Switch Options: Cherry MX RGB
• Backlighting: Per-key RGB
• USB Passthrough: USB 3.0
• Other Features: Aimpad technology for analog control, customizable RGB lighting, magnetic wrist rest.

10. Gigabyte AORUS K9 Optical

• Switch Options: Flaretech Optical switches
• Backlighting: Per-key RGB
• USB Passthrough: USB 2.0
• Other Features: Splash-proof design, customizable RGB lighting, floating keycap design.

USB Passthrough vs. USB Hub for Keyboards

USB passthrough and USB hubs serve different purposes and have distinct functionalities, although they both involve USB connectivity. Here are the key differences between USB passthrough and USB hubs:

USB Passthrough:

1. Integration: USB passthrough is a feature integrated into specific devices, typically found in gaming keyboards or high-end mechanical keyboards. It allows you to connect USB devices directly to that particular device, such as a keyboard with USB passthrough ports.
2. Direct Connection: When you use USB passthrough, the connected USB devices are physically connected to the passthrough ports on the host device (e.g., a keyboard). The host device acts as an intermediary, relaying data between the connected USB devices and the computer.
3. Limited Ports: USB passthrough on a single device usually provides a limited number of USB ports (often 1-2), and these ports are designed for specific purposes like connecting a mouse, headset, or USB drive.
4. Device-Specific: USB passthrough is tied to the host device. You can't use the passthrough ports on one keyboard with another keyboard, and it's not transferable to other devices.
5. Common Use: It's commonly used for gaming keyboards to provide quick access to gaming peripherals or for productivity-focused keyboards to simplify connectivity of frequently used USB devices.

USB Hubs

1. External Device: USB hubs are standalone devices that provide additional USB ports for connecting multiple USB devices to your computer.
2. Hub Functionality: A USB hub doesn't have its own processing capabilities or storage; it simply acts as a multiplier for your existing USB ports. When you connect a hub to your computer's USB port, it splits that single port into multiple ports on the hub.
3. Port Expansion: USB hubs are available in various configurations, offering multiple ports (e.g., 4-port, 7-port, etc.), including USB 2.0, USB 3.0, and USB-C ports, depending on the hub's specifications.
4. Universal Compatibility: USB hubs are not tied to specific devices. You can use the same USB hub with different computers, laptops, or devices that have USB ports, making them versatile and transferable.
5. Common Use: USB hubs are used to expand the number of available USB ports on a computer or laptop, allowing users to connect various peripherals, such as external hard drives, printers, keyboards, mice, and more.

In summary, USB passthrough is a feature integrated into specific devices (like keyboards) that provides a limited number of USB ports for direct connectivity. USB hubs are external devices designed to expand the number of USB ports available on your computer, offering greater flexibility and compatibility with a wide range of devices. 

Pros and Cons of USB Passthrough on a Keyboard

SB passthrough on a keyboard can be a useful feature, but it also comes with its own set of pros and cons. Here's a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages:

Pros of USB Passthrough on a Keyboard

1. Convenience
   • USB passthrough provides quick and easy access to USB ports directly on your keyboard, eliminating the need to reach behind your computer or use a separate USB hub.
2. Reduced cable clutter
   • USB passthrough can help declutter your workspace by allowing you to connect USB devices directly to the keyboard, reducing cable tangles and mess.
3. Gaming advantage
   • Gamers can benefit from reduced cable drag and latency by connecting gaming peripherals like mice or headsets directly to the keyboard's passthrough, leading to a more immersive gaming experience.
4. Productivity enhancement
   • For productivity-focused users, USB passthrough simplifies the process of connecting and disconnecting USB devices like flash drives, external hard drives, or card readers.
5. Multitasking
   • USB passthrough allows you to connect multiple USB devices simultaneously, making it easier to switch between tasks and peripherals without the hassle of connecting and disconnecting cables.
6. Customization options
   • Some keyboards with USB passthrough offer customization features for the passthrough ports, such as programmable keys or lighting effects, adding versatility and personalization options.
7. Charging convenience
   • You can use USB passthrough to charge devices like smartphones or tablets without needing to access computer USB ports.

Cons of USB Passthrough on a Keyboard

1. Limited number of ports
   • Keyboards with USB passthrough typically offer a limited number of USB ports (usually 1-2), which may not be sufficient for users with many USB devices.
2. Compatibility
   • USB passthrough ports may have limitations in terms of the USB standards they support (e.g., USB 2.0 vs. USB 3.0) and may not be compatible with all USB devices.
3. Power constraints
   • USB passthrough may not provide enough power for power-hungry devices like external hard drives, which may require their own power source.
4. Device-specific
   • USB passthrough is tied to the specific keyboard it's integrated into, meaning you can't use the passthrough ports with other keyboards or devices.
5. Potential compatibility issues
   • Some users may experience compatibility issues or driver conflicts with certain USB devices when connected via passthrough.
6. Keyboard size and weight
   • Keyboards with USB passthrough ports may be slightly larger and heavier due to the added circuitry and ports, which could be a drawback for users looking for a compact keyboard.

Pros and Cons of USB Hub for Keyboards

Using a USB hub with your keyboard can be a practical solution for expanding USB connectivity, but it also has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of using a USB hub with a keyboard:

Pros of Using a USB Hub with a Keyboard

1. Port expansion
   • A USB hub allows you to significantly expand the number of available USB ports on your computer or laptop, making it possible to connect more peripherals and devices simultaneously.
2. Versatility
   • USB hubs are not tied to a specific device like USB passthrough on a keyboard. You can use the same USB hub with different computers, laptops, or devices, making them versatile and transferable.
3. Compatibility
   • USB hubs are generally compatible with a wide range of USB devices, including external hard drives, printers, keyboards, mice, USB flash drives, and more.
4. External power options
   • Some USB hubs come with their own power adapters, allowing them to supply power to power-hungry devices or charge multiple devices simultaneously.
5. Enhanced productivity
   • A USB hub can help improve productivity by allowing you to connect multiple peripherals like a keyboard, mouse, printer, and external storage devices without constantly swapping cables.
6. Cable management
   • USB hubs can help with cable management, as you can keep your desk organized by connecting multiple peripherals to a single hub instead of reaching for individual USB ports on your computer.

Cons of Using a USB Hub with a Keyboard

1. Additional hardware
   • Using a USB hub adds an extra piece of hardware to your setup, which may take up desk space and require an additional power source if the hub is not bus-powered.
2. Potential cable clutter
   • While USB hubs can help with cable management, they can also contribute to cable clutter if not organized properly, especially if many devices are connected to the hub.
3. Port sharing
   • When multiple devices are connected to a USB hub, they share the available bandwidth, which can lead to reduced data transfer speeds if several high-bandwidth devices are active simultaneously.
4. Compatibility issues
   • Some USB hubs may not be fully compatible with certain devices, leading to issues such as slow data transfer rates, device recognition problems, or driver conflicts.
5. Power constraints
   • Bus-powered USB hubs (those without an external power source) may not supply sufficient power for power-hungry devices, which could lead to performance issues or devices not functioning correctly.
6. Cost
   • Good-quality USB hubs with multiple ports and advanced features can be relatively expensive compared to basic hubs, which may have limited functionality.

FAQs about USB Passthrough on Keyboards

You may be wondering if you can use USB passthrough for both your keyboard and mouse, or perhaps you're curious about whether it impacts gaming performance. Maybe you'd like to connect external storage devices or aren't sure how to enable this feature on different keyboard brands.

Let's dive into these questions and unravel the mystery of USB passthrough together.

Can I use USB passthrough for keyboard and mouse?

Indeed, USB passthrough on keyboards can be used for both mouse and keyboard connection, providing a convenient and efficient way to manage your devices. This feature gives you the freedom to connect and switch between peripherals without the hassle of tangled wires or reaching behind your desktop.

Does USB passthrough affect gaming performance?

The USB Passthrough feature on your keyboard has no impact on the speed or responsiveness of connected devices. You're free to connect and swap devices as you please without worrying about lags or delays. It's all about giving you more freedom and flexibility with your setup.

However, do keep an eye on power consumption. If you're powering multiple high-demand devices through the passthrough, it could potentially strain your system's resources. But for most common peripherals like a mouse or headset, there's absolutely no downside to using that handy extra port.

Can I connect external storage devices to a USB passthrough port?

You can typically connect external storage devices like USB flash drives, external hard drives, or SSDs to a USB passthrough port on a keyboard, provided that the passthrough port supports the required USB standard (e.g., USB 2.0 or USB 3.0) and the power requirements of the external storage device are met. 

Can I use USB 3.0 ports for USB passthrough on a keyboard?

Some keyboards come equipped with USB 3.0 (also known as USB 3.1 Gen 1) ports for USB passthrough. These ports support faster data transfer speeds compared to USB 2.0, making them suitable for a wider range of USB devices. 

Can USB passthrough on a keyboard support all types of USB devices?

Yes, your keyboard's USB passthrough can support all types of USB devices. It's a handy feature, letting you easily connect things like mice, microphones, or thumb drives right there at your fingertips.

What are the potential risks or problems that might occur when using a USB passthrough?

You might face issues with USB passthrough on keyboards like bulky non-detachable cables, difficulty replacing damaged ones, and limited customization. It's less portable and could be inconvenient if you're often on the move.

How does a USB passthrough affect the power consumption of the computer?

USB passthrough on your keyboard slightly increases the power drawn from your computer. It's powering an extra USB port and any device connected to it, but the impact on overall power consumption is minimal.

Can the USB passthrough port on the keyboard be used for data transfer or is it only for charging devices?

Yes, you can use the USB passthrough on your keyboard for data transfer, not just charging. It's like a built-in USB hub allowing you to connect and interact with other devices such as thumb drives or mice.

Are there any specific software requirements to use a USB passthrough?

No specific software requirements are needed to use USB passthrough on your keyboard. It's plug-and-play, meaning you can connect and start using your device right away without any additional setup or programs.

Conclusion

Whether you're a gamer looking for that competitive edge, a creative professional seeking workflow optimization, or an everyday user wanting to simplify your digital life, USB passthroughs have something to offer. By integrating this technology into your setup, you're not only streamlining your connection needs but also future-proofing your workstation.