Selecting a mechanical keyboard in 2023 may seem daunting, especially when unfamiliar jargon leaves you feeling lost. But don’t worry – our mission is to simplify the process, helping you choose the ideal mechanical keyboard to suit your needs and budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mechanical keyboards, deeply rooted in the history of typewriters, have come a long way since their inception. As you explore this fascinating world, take a moment to learn the basics by discovering what is a mechanical keyboard<\/a> and dive into the myriad benefits of a mechanical keyboard<\/a>. As you progress through this Mechanical Keyboard<\/a> Buying Guide, you’ll soon be an expert, confidently making the right choice for your typing experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When considering a mechanical keyboard on a budget, you can find entry-level options around $50. At this price, you will experience the mechanical feel, but they may lack additional features or use cheaper materials. However, it can still be a decent choice if your budget is tight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For those looking for more features and better quality, mid-range mechanical keyboards cost between $70 and $100 and are recommended for most people. They offer a balance of solid performance, features, and value for money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For enthusiasts with extra cash to spend, it’s possible to find high-end keyboards at $150 or more. These luxurious options often come with customizable designs and a multitude of extra features.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For further guidance, you can explore the following recommendations based on price:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Best Mechanical Keyboards Under $50:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Best Mechanical Keyboards Under $100:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Best Mechanical Keyboards Under $150:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Best Mechanical Keyboards Under $200:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Best Mechanical Keyboards $200+:<\/p>\n\n\n\n When it comes to buying a mechanical keyboard, there are plenty of options available at different price points. Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking for high-end features, there is a mechanical keyboard out there for you. By considering factors like switch type, keyboard size, and additional features like RGB lighting and media controls, you can find the perfect mechanical keyboard to enhance your typing experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now that you have an idea of how much you should allocate for your mechanical keyboard, let’s proceed to the next part of the article.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When searching for a mechanical keyboard, consider the quality differences between premium and budget options. High-end keyboards tend to have a combination of plastic and aluminum builds, PBT keycaps, Cherry MX switches, RGB lighting, robust software, customizability, and detachable power cables. On the other hand, budget keyboards are generally all-plastic, with ABS keycaps, Outemu switches, limited to no lighting or software, and non-detachable cables. Keep in mind that well-known brands may charge more for their products but offer better support and more trust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re a gaming enthusiast, consider the following features when selecting a mechanical keyboard:<\/p>\n\n\n\n For typing and office work, prioritize keyboards that prioritize comfort and durability:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Programmers should look for keyboards that combine a great typing experience with powerful customization options, such as key remapping and macros. Some high-quality keyboards not made in China, like Leopold, Filco, WASD, Unicomp, and Vortexgear Pok3r, can be found here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mechanical switches fall into three main categories:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your choice in switches will depend on personal preferences and intended use. If you’re a gamer, red or black linear switches are ideal. They allow for rapid key presses in intense gameplay situations. For non-gaming activities, tactile brown or blue switches are recommended. The noticeable bump of tactile switches can aid in typing accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Switch manufacturers, such as Cherry MX, Gateron, and Outemu, produce different switch types with varying levels of quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cherry MX is known for its high-quality switches, which undergo rigorous testing and can last over 100 million keystrokes. However, they tend to be more expensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re on a budget, Gateron switches are a great choice. They offer a smooth feel and are more affordable, but their lifespan may be shorter than Cherry MX switches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For those seeking the most budget-friendly option, Outemu switches are found on keyboards under $50. However, these switches may have inconsistent feel and lower durability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Gamers might want to weigh the benefits of optical switches over mechanical ones. Optical switches activate when a beam of light is detected by a sensor during a keypress, while mechanical switches work when two metal plates touch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mechanical switches have a slight “debounce delay” due to the time it takes for the metal plates to touch. This delay, usually 5-10 ms, can make mechanical switches slower than optical switches. If you value faster response times for gaming, optical keyboards might be a worthy investment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For everyday use, mechanical switches will suffice, as the difference in speed isn’t significant for general tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Choosing the perfect keyboard goes beyond the usual sizes you find in stores. It’s essential to reflect on the keys you actually use and avoid wasting space on keys you don’t need. A popular option for many is the tenkeyless keyboard<\/a>, which omits the number pad, making it more compact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The 65% keyboard size could also be a great pick for you. It retains important keys like letters and numbers but removes extra features like the function row, navigation cluster, and number pad. This layout offers a sleek and ergonomic design, perfect for both gaming and typing.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHow Much Should You Spend on a Mechanical Keyboard?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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What Should You Look For In A Mechanical Keyboard?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Comparing High-End and Budget Features<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Essential Features for Gamers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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General Office and Typing Features<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Features for Programmers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Finding the Perfect Switch for Your Needs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Comparing Switch Manufacturers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Optical vs. Mechanical Switches<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Keyboard Size Matters<\/h2>\n\n\n\n