Best mechanical keyboards buying guide

Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to their durability, comfort, and precision. Mechanical keyboards use physical switches instead of traditional membranes to register key presses, making them much more precise and resistant to wear and tear.

However, choosing the right mechanical keyboard can be difficult due to the wide range of options available. In this article, we will explore the factors to consider when purchasing a mechanical keyboard and provide a detailed guide to the best mechanical keyboards on the market.

Advantages of Mechanical Keyboards

Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their numerous features and advantages over traditional membrane keyboards.

Durability and Reliability

Mechanical keyboards are built with high-quality materials and robust components, making them very durable over time. The keys can withstand hundreds of thousands of presses without losing their sensitivity or responsiveness. Additionally, key switches are replaceable, which means that if one or more keys break, you don't need to replace the entire keyboard but only the damaged key.

Tactile Feel and Feedback

One of the main differences between mechanical keyboards and membrane keyboards is the tactile feel during typing. Mechanical keyboards offer a much more pronounced tactile feedback thanks to the presence of switches under each key. This means that when we press a key, we feel a clear physical and acoustic response that confirms the pressure of the key itself. This feature makes mechanical keyboards particularly suitable for activities that require great precision in typing, such as document writing or programming.

Better Gaming Performance

Mechanical keyboards are also highly appreciated by video game enthusiasts, thanks to their ability to support simultaneous typing of multiple keys (called N-Key rollover). This means that it is possible to press multiple keys at the same time without fearing keyboard block or input loss. Additionally, mechanical switches offer a faster and more precise response compared to membrane keyboards, which can make a difference during intense gaming sessions.

Customization Possibilities

Finally, another advantage of mechanical keyboards is the possibility of customizing them based on your preferences. Many models allow you to replace individual key switches with other models for a different tactile feel or to better suit your needs. Additionally, many mechanical keyboards allow you to program macros and assign specific functions to individual keys to simplify some operations or improve typing efficiency.

  • In summary:
  • Mechanical keyboards are durable and reliable over time;
  • They offer a better tactile sensation and acoustic feedback compared to membrane keyboards;
  • They are ideal for gamers thanks to their ability to support simultaneous typing of multiple keys;
  • They are customizable according to personal preferences and needs.

Types of switches

There are different types of switches for mechanical keyboards, each with specific characteristics that make them suitable for different uses and personal tastes.

Linear switches

Linear switches are the simplest and quietest. They have no tactile or audible feedback when pressed, which makes them ideal for fast and distraction-free typing. They are often used in work environments where a silent keyboard is required.

Tactile switches

Tactile switches have tactile feedback but do not produce sound. When pressed, a slight click can be felt indicating the activation of the switch. This type is ideal for those who want tactile feedback without necessarily producing noise while typing.

Clicky switches

Clicky switches are similar to tactile switches but produce a distinctive sound when pressed. This type of switch can be useful for those who want an acoustic response in addition to the tactile one, but it may be annoying for those who work in shared environments or want to avoid disturbing others.

Linear switches with sound feedback

Linear switches with sound feedback produce a sound when activated but do not have tactile feedback. This type of switch can be useful for those who want an acoustic response without sacrificing the smooth and fast typing sensation of linear switches.

Hybrid switches

Hybrid switches combine the characteristics of linear, tactile, or clicky switches, offering a customizable typing experience. For example, some hybrid switches may have tactile feedback only in the first part of the movement, followed by a linear stroke without noise. This type of switch is suitable for those who want to experiment with different sensations while typing.

  • Note: The choice of switch type depends on personal preferences and usage needs. Before purchasing a mechanical keyboard, it is advisable to try out different types of switches to find the one that best suits your needs.

How to choose the right keyboard

The choice of the right keyboard depends on your personal needs and the type of use you will make of it. Here are some factors to consider:

Type of mechanical switch

The type of mechanical switch is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a mechanical keyboard. There are different types of switches, each with a different tactile sensation. For example, Cherry MX Blue switches are known for their tactile feedback and clicking noise, while Cherry MX Red switches are silent and linear.

Brightness and Customization of Lighting

If you're a gamer or work in low-light environments, you may want to choose a keyboard with customizable RGB lighting. This way, you can create the right atmosphere for your work or gaming environment. Make sure your keyboard also has adjustable brightness levels to avoid eye strain.

Keyboard Layout

The keyboard layout can vary depending on the country and personal preferences. For example, some keyboards have an ANSI (American) layout while others have an ISO (European) layout. Additionally, some keyboards also include customizable macro keys for quick access to specific functions.

Materials and Design

The quality of the materials used in the keyboard can affect its durability over time. Some keyboards have an aluminum frame, which makes them more sturdy and long-lasting. Additionally, the design of the keyboard can be important for some users, such as if they desire a compact layout or a keyboard with an integrated wrist rest.

Price

Finally, price is an important factor to consider when choosing a mechanical keyboard. High-quality keyboards can cost several hundred euros, but there are also cheaper options available without compromising quality.

  • Choose the type of mechanical switch that best suits your needs
  • Consider brightness and customization of lighting
  • Think about keyboard layout and your personal requirements
  • Evaluate materials and design of the keyboard
  • Keep your budget in mind when choosing your new mechanical keyboard

The Best Mechanical Keyboards on the Market

If you're looking for a mechanical keyboard, there are many options to choose from. Here are some of the best mechanical keyboards available on the market:

  • Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT

    This keyboard features Cherry MX switches and has a sleek design with customizable LED lighting. Additionally, it has 6 programmable macro keys and a convenient removable wrist rest.

  • Logitech G915 TKL

    This wireless keyboard features GL Tactile or GL Clicky switches and is incredibly slim. It also has programmable RGB LED lighting and a battery that lasts up to 40 hours on a single charge.

  • Razer BlackWidow Elite

    This keyboard features Razer Green or Yellow switches and has customizable RGB LED lighting. It also has a removable magnetic wrist rest and 5 programmable macro keys.

  • Ducky One 2 Mini

    This small keyboard features Cherry MX switches and has a minimalist yet sleek design. It's available in various colors and has many customization options, including RGB LED lighting.

```html

These are just some of the best mechanical keyboards available on the market. Each one has its own strengths and weaknesses, so choose the one that best suits your needs and your gaming or work style.

Conclusion

In summary, mechanical keyboards are a popular choice among gamers and professionals looking for a superior typing experience compared to traditional keyboards. With the wide range of options available on the market, it is important to do your research to find the right one for you. Consider your specific needs, such as switch type, LED lighting, and macro key programmability. Choosing the best mechanical keyboard can significantly improve your typing experience and increase your productivity or enjoyment during gaming.

```
Ruggero Lecce - Consulente senior di personal branding in Italia

Michael Anderson - Software Engineer

My name is Michael Anderson, and I work as a computer engineer in Midland, Texas.

My passion is sharing my knowledge in various areas, and my purpose is to make education accessible to everyone. I believe it is essential to explain complex concepts in a simple and interesting way.

With GlobalHowTo, I aim to motivate and enrich the minds of those who want to learn.