Best Mechanical Keyboards Reviews & Buyers Guide by Experts [October 2023]
Phill Billy Oct 1, 2023 11:23 AM
The best mechanical keyboards make typing more enjoyable. With the right switches and layout, you'll be able to type faster, more accurately, and more comfortably than with a membrane keyboard.
Most mechanical keyboards cost a lot, but that's an investment that pays off every time you type, whether it's your latest email, a new short story, or a congratulations after a great Destiny 2 raid. When you purchase a mechanical keyboard, you also open the door to a whole community of keyboard enthusiasts, and if you choose to explore that community, you can spend hours researching the best switches, keycaps, and layouts for your ideal mechanical keyboard. Mechanical keyboards are more customizable and durable than membrane keyboards, which is why you should consider them.
In the following list, you'll find everything from a bright, loud gaming keyboard to a subtle, satisfying mechanical keyboard to type on all day without waking the neighbors.
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Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed Wireless RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Low Profile Switch Options, LIGHTSYNC RGB, Advanced Wireless and Bluetooth Support - Linear , Black
View on Amazon- SCORE10.0AI Score
AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandLogitech G
- Prime
Redragon K556 RGB LED Backlit Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Aluminum Base, 104 Standard Keys
View on Amazon- SCORE9.8AI Score
AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandRedragon
- Prime
RK ROYAL KLUDGE Typewriter Style Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with True RGB Backlit Collapsible Wrist Rest 108-Key Blue Switch Retro Round Keycap - Black
View on Amazon- SCORE9.7AI Score
AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandRK ROYAL KLUDGE
- Prime
SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – Adjustable Actuation Switches – World’s Fastest Mechanical Keyboard – OLED Smart Display – RGB Backlit
View on Amazon- SCORE9.6AI Score
AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandSteelSeries
- Prime
SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – World’s Fastest Mechanical Switches – OLED Smart Display – Compact Form Factor – RGB Backlit
View on Amazon- SCORE9.6AI Score
AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandSteelSeries
- Prime
Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Ultra Portable Tenkeyless Design, Detachable Micro USB Cable, 16.8 Million Color LIGHTSYNC RGB Backlit Keys
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AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandLogitech G
- Prime
Keychron K2 Version 2 Wireless Gaming Mechanical Keyboard, Bluetooth/USB Wired Compact 84 Keys RGB LED Backlight N-Key Rollover, Aluminum Frame for Mac Windows, Gateron G Pro Red Switch
View on Amazon- SCORE9.4AI Score
AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandKeychron
- Prime
havit Mechanical Keyboard and Mouse Combo RGB Gaming 104 Keys Blue Switches Wired USB Keyboards with Detachable Wrist Rest, Programmable Gaming Mouse for PC Gamer Computer Desktop (Black)
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AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- Brandhavit
SteelSeries Apex 5 Hybrid Mechanical Gaming Keyboard – Per-Key RGB Illumination – Aircraft Grade Aluminum Alloy Frame – OLED Smart Display (Hybrid Blue Switch)
View on Amazon- SCORE9.4AI Score
AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandSteelSeries
Redragon K617 Fizz 60% Wired RGB Gaming Keyboard, 61 Keys Compact Mechanical Keyboard w/White and Grey Color Keycaps, Linear Red Switch, Pro Driver/Software Supported
View on Amazon- SCORE9.4AI Score
AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandRedragon
- Prime
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You Have The Power Here - Redragon Devarajas K556 Review
Even though mechanical keyboards have existed for as long as PC keyboards have, the majority of the population is only now becoming aware of their existence. Historical icons like the IBM Model M keyboard have defined the solid-feeling, reliable, and long-lasting reputation keyboards of this type enjoy today. In addition, they created the "clicky" sound, which many early boards, and some modern ones, produce when a key is pressed.
There has been a tremendous increase in the variety of mechanical keyboards in recent years. With form factors as small as 40% and as large as full-sized, they can provide anything from that vintage clicky sound to dead-silent typing. Now, every type of board can be found to meet the needs of the toughest gamers to the most straight-laced, business-minded office worker. While the most particular mechanical keyboard hobbyists may want to build their own boards (or at least heavily modify an existing board), the majority of potential users will likely opt for a solution that is both excellent out of the box and can also be tweaked down the road.
We've rounded up a list of some of today's best pre-made options for those that just want to get started and those that aren't sure how deep their interest goes. There will be a focus on readily-available, mass-produced boards on this list. Although there are some outstanding small-batch boards out there, they tend to be more expensive and often out of stock. You can actually get your hands on the best boards without taking out a second mortgage by checking out the entries below.
Each entry will include a brief description of its most ideal user, but don't let that limit your purchasing choices. "Gamer" aesthetics like RGB lights can always be turned off, and non-gaming keyboards can be just as competitive with the right switches and software. Instead, focus on your budget, desk space, and the available switch options you'd prefer.
Design
What is the size of the keyboard you want? The right-hand side of a full-sized keyboard has a separate number pad. If you don't care about the number pad and/or want something smaller, consider getting a tenkeyless keyboard, which does not have a number pad. For example, a 60% mini keyboard is 60% the size of a full keyboard and typically only includes the main typing keys and the number row.
Switches
Which switches would you like on your keyboard? Several options are available, but they generally differ in two main ways: how noisy they are, and when they register a keypress. Linear switches register a keypress (or actuate) when you press them all the way in, whereas tactile switches actuate about halfway down. You'll be able to narrow down your options from dozens to a handful once you've decided whether you want quiet or noisy and linear or tactile.
For more information on mechanical switches, check out our guide, but if you're not sure, Cherry MX switches are some of the best on the market.
Price
The cost of a good mechanical keyboard will likely range from $100 to $200, depending on which one you choose and when you buy it. A $20 to $30 membrane keyboard from Microsoft or Dell will work fine, but it won't be as comfortable (or last as long) as a high-quality mechanical keyboard. However, if you want something a little cheaper, you can get a quality mechanical keyboard like the Razer BlackWidow Lite for about $70.00.
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Which key switch is right for you?
Choosing the right key switch for a mechanical keyboard can be a matter of personal preference, as different key switches offer different characteristics such as actuation force, travel distance, and sound. Here is a brief overview of some common key switch types to help you decide which one might be right for you:
Linear key switches
Linear key switches have a smooth, consistent feel and travel straight down without any bump or tactile feedback. They are often preferred by gamers because they offer a smooth, fast actuation.
Tactile key switches
Tactile key switches have a small bump or tactile feedback when they are actuated. This can provide a sense of confirmation when typing, but may also slow down actuation slightly.
Clicky key switches
Clicky key switches have a loud, distinct sound when they are actuated, in addition to a tactile bump. They are preferred by some typists because the sound and tactile feedback can help with typing accuracy.
Heavy key switches
Heavy key switches require more force to actuate than lighter key switches. They may be preferred by some users who like a more resistant feel when typing or gaming.
Ultimately, the right key switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and the specific type of typing or gaming you will be doing. It may be helpful to try out a few different key switches to see which one you like best. Some online retailers offer switch testers or switch samples that allow you to try out different key switch types before making a purchase.
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What parts of a mechanical keyboard can you modify?
There are several parts of a mechanical keyboard that can be modified or customized:
Keycaps
Keycaps are the tops of the keys that you press when typing or gaming. They can be replaced with keycaps in different colors, materials, or shapes to change the look of the keyboard.
Switches
The switches are the mechanical components underneath the keycaps that register key presses. Different types of switches offer different characteristics such as actuation force, travel distance, and sound. You can swap out the switches on a mechanical keyboard to customize the feel and sound of the keyboard.
Stabilizers
Stabilizers are used on larger keys, such as the spacebar, to help them actuate evenly and smoothly. You can modify stabilizers to improve their feel or to make them quieter.
Case
The case is the outer shell of the keyboard that houses the internal components. Some custom mechanical keyboards allow you to change the case to a different color or material, or to add custom artwork.
Lighting
Many mechanical keyboards come with customizable lighting, which allows you to change the color and pattern of the backlighting on the keyboard.
Firmware
Some mechanical keyboards allow you to modify the firmware, which is the software that runs on the keyboard. This can allow you to customize the behavior of the keyboard and add custom macros or other features.
Overall, there are many parts of a mechanical keyboard that can be modified to customize the look and feel of the keyboard to your personal preferences.
