Are Mechanical Keyboards Worth It

Elevate Your Typing Game: A Comprehensive Guide to the Worth of Mechanical Keyboards.

Mechanical keyboards are gaining popularity among gamers and typists due to their impressive durability, precision, and responsiveness. These keyboards offer a superior typing experience, making them a smart investment for those seeking to elevate their performance. This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of mechanical keyboards, along with the different switch types available, to help you decide if a mechanical keyboard is worth your investment.

Advantages Of Mechanical Keyboards

1. Durability

One of the biggest advantages of mechanical keyboards is their durability. The mechanical switches are designed to withstand millions of keystrokes, making them a more long-lasting option compared to traditional rubber dome keyboards. This makes mechanical keyboards ideal for users who type frequently or for those who use their keyboard for gaming, where keystrokes can be more intense and frequent.

2. Improved Accuracy

Mechanical keyboards are known for their precision and responsiveness, which can improve typing accuracy. The tactile feedback provided by the mechanical switches allows users to feel when a keypress has been registered, allowing for quicker, more accurate typing. This is especially useful for users who type frequently, such as writers or coders, as it can reduce the number of mistakes made, saving time in the long run.

3. Customizability

One of the great things about mechanical keyboards is the level of customization available to users. Mechanical keyboards come in a variety of switch types, allowing users to choose the switch that best fits their typing style. Different switch types offer varying levels of tactile feedback, actuation force, and travel distance, giving users more control over their typing experience.

Let’s say some switch types provide a more pronounced tactile bump, making it easier to feel when a keypress has been registered, while others offer a more linear typing experience. This level of customization is particularly useful for users who type for extended periods of time, as it can help prevent fatigue and discomfort.

4. Enhanced Gaming Experience

Mechanical keyboards are a popular choice among gamers due to their responsiveness and precision. The tactile feedback and low actuation force of many mechanical switches make it easier for gamers to quickly register key presses, leading to a more immersive gaming experience. This is especially important for fast-paced games, where quick reflexes and precise movements can mean the difference between winning and losing.

5. Aesthetics

In addition to the functional benefits of mechanical keyboards, they also offer a level of aesthetic appeal. Many mechanical keyboards feature customizable backlit keys, allowing users to add a touch of style to their setup. This can be especially useful for users who work in low-light environments, as the backlit keys can make it easier to see what you’re typing.

Disadvantages Of Mechanical Keyboards

1. Cost

One of the main disadvantages of mechanical keyboards is the cost. They are often more expensive than traditional rubber dome keyboards, making them a more costly investment. However, it’s worth considering that the long-lasting durability and improved typing experience offered by mechanical keyboards can make up for the higher cost over time.

2. Noise

Another potential drawback of mechanical keyboards is the noise. The mechanical switches can be loud, making it difficult to use the keyboard in quiet environments. This can be a drawback for those who work in open-plan offices or in quiet public spaces. However, many mechanical keyboards are available with quieter switch types, making it possible to enjoy the benefits of a mechanical keyboard without the added noise.

3. Size

Mechanical keyboards are often larger than traditional keyboards, making them less portable and more difficult to transport. This can be an issue for users who are looking for a more compact or travel-friendly keyboard. It’s important to consider the size and portability of a keyboard before making a purchase, especially for users who are frequently on the go.

Types Of Mechanical Keyboard Switches

1. Cherry MX Brown

The Cherry MX Brown switch is a popular switch type, known for its moderate tactile feedback and actuation force. This switch is ideal for users who type frequently and prefer a more subtle tactile bump, as well as gamers who value precision and control.

2. Cherry MX Blue

The Cherry MX Blue switch is known for its pronounced tactile bump and satisfying click sound. This switch is ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback, as well as typists who enjoy the sound of their keyboard. However, the click sound can be distracting in quiet environments, making it a less ideal choice for users who work in open-plan offices.

3. Cherry MX Red

The Cherry MX Red switch is a linear switch, known for its smooth and quiet typing experience. This switch is ideal for gamers who value a fast and responsive keyboard, as well as for users who prefer a more subtle typing experience. The lack of tactile feedback can be a drawback for some users, however, as it can make it more difficult to feel when a keypress has been registered.

4. Cherry MX Black

The Cherry MX Black switch is a heavy linear switch, ideal for gamers who value precision and control. The high actuation force required to press the keys can make it more difficult for users to accidentally press the wrong keys, making it a great choice for fast-paced games. However, the high actuation force can also make it more difficult to type for extended periods of time, making it a less ideal choice for users who type frequently.

Best Mechanical Keyboards

Mechanical keyboards have been growing in popularity in recent years due to their durable design, tactile feedback, and wide range of customization options. Whether you’re a gamer or just looking for a more efficient and comfortable typing experience, there’s a mechanical keyboard out there for you. In this article, we’ll highlight 10 of the best mechanical keyboards available on Amazon, and for each keyboard, we’ll cover the pros and cons to help you make a more informed decision.

1. Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT is a top-of-the-line gaming keyboard that offers a premium typing experience. It features Cherry MX RGB Speed mechanical key switches that provide a fast and precise typing experience. The keyboard also has per-key RGB lighting and a sturdy aluminum frame. Additionally, it includes six programmable macro keys, a wrist rest, and dedicated media controls for easy access to your favorite media.

Pros:

1. Fast and precise typing experience.
2. Per-key RGB lighting.
3. Sturdy aluminum frame.
4. Six programmable macro keys.
5. Wrist rest and dedicated media controls.

Cons:

1. Expensive compared to other options.
2. No USB passthrough.

https://www.amazon.com/Corsair-Platinum-Mechanical-Keyboard-Backlit/dp/B082GR814B

2. Razer Black Widow Elite Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The Razer Black Widow Elite is another great option for gamers. It features Razer’s own mechanical switches that offer a satisfying tactile feedback and fast actuation. The keyboard also has customizable per-key RGB lighting, a dedicated media control wheel, and a magnetic wrist rest for added comfort. Additionally, the Black Widow Elite includes five programmable macro keys and a gaming mode option to disable the Windows key during gaming sessions.

Pros:

1. Satisfying tactile feedback.
2. Fast actuation.
3. Customizable per-key RGB lighting.
4. Dedicated media control wheel.
5. Magnetic wrist rest.
6. Five programmable macro keys.
7. Gaming mode option.

Cons:

1. No USB passthrough.
2. More expensive than other options.

https://www.amazon.com/Razer-BlackWidow-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard/dp/B07FFCN3DJ

3. Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The Logitech G810 Orion Spectrum is a sleek and modern gaming keyboard that offers a simple and straightforward typing experience. It features Logitech’s own Romer-G mechanical switches that provide a tactile feedback and fast actuation. The keyboard also has per-key RGB lighting and a slim profile that saves desk space. Additionally, it includes media controls, a dedicated game mode, and Logitech’s software that allows you to easily customize the lighting and macros.

Pros:

1. Tactile feedback and fast actuation.
2. Per-key RGB lighting.
3. Slim profile saves desk space.
4. Media controls and dedicated game mode.
5. Logitech’s software for customization.

Cons:

1. No USB passthrough.
2. Romer-G switches may take some getting used to.

https://www.amazon.com/Orion-Spectrum-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard/dp/B01BBKYM3I

4. Anne Pro 2 60% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

If you’re looking for a compact mechanical keyboard, the Anne Pro 2 is an excellent choice. It’s a 60% keyboard that’s wireless, making it a great option for those who value portability. The Anne Pro 2 uses Cherry MX RGB Red switches that provide a smooth and quiet typing experience. It also has per-key RGB lighting and customizable macro functions. Additionally, the keyboard includes a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, as well as software that allows you to easily program macros and customize the lighting.

Pros:

1. Compact and portable.
2. Cherry MX RGB Red switches for smooth and quiet typing.
3. Per-key RGB lighting.
4. Customizable macro functions.
5. USB-C port for charging and data transfer.
6. Customization software.

Cons:

1. Wireless connection may not be as reliable as wired.
2. No dedicated media controls.

https://www.amazon.com/ANNE-PRO-Wireless-Mechanical-Keyboard/dp/B07Y53G7B6

5. HyperX Alloy FPS Pro Tenkeyless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The HyperX Alloy FPS Pro is a compact and durable gaming keyboard that’s perfect for gamers who value portability. It’s a ten-keyless keyboard that doesn’t have a numeric keypad, making it easier to carry around. The Alloy FPS Pro uses Cherry MX Red switches that provide a fast and quiet typing experience. Additionally, the keyboard has a solid steel frame that provides stability and durability, as well as anti-ghosting technology that ensures all keystrokes are registered.

Pros:

1. Compact and portable.
2. Cherry MX Red switches for fast and quiet typing.
3. Solid steel frame for stability and durability.
4. Anti-ghosting technology.

Cons:

1. No numeric keypad.
2. No dedicated media controls.

https://www.amazon.com/HyperX-Alloy-FPS-Pro-Ultra-Compact/dp/B074F5L8GQ

6. Ducky One 2 RGB TKL Mechanical Keyboard

The Ducky One 2 RGB TKL is a simple and stylish mechanical keyboard that’s perfect for those who value a minimalist design. It’s a ten keyless keyboard that features Cherry MX RGB Red switches that provide a smooth and quiet typing experience. The keyboard also has per-key RGB lighting and customizable macro functions. Additionally, the Ducky One 2 RGB TKL includes software that allows you to easily program macros and customize the lighting.

Pros:

1. Minimalist design.
2. Cherry MX RGB Red switches for smooth and quiet typing.
3. Per-key RGB lighting.
4. Customizable macro functions.
5. Customization software.

Cons:

1. No numeric keypad.
2. No dedicated media controls.

https://www.amazon.com/Ducky-ONE-Gaming-Tastatur-MX-Silent-Red/dp/B087RQ7HT4/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=ducky+one+2+tkl&qid=1676115654&sr=8-2

7. SteelSeries Apex Pro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The SteelSeries Apex Pro is a high-end gaming keyboard that offers a customizable typing experience. It features SteelSeries’ own Omni Point switches that allow you to adjust the actuation point of each key, allowing you to type with a level of precision that’s unmatched by other mechanical keyboards. The Apex Pro also has per-key RGB lighting and customizable media controls. Additionally, the keyboard includes a dedicated game mode, as well as SteelSeries’ software that allows you to easily program macros and customize the lighting.

Pros:

1. Customizable actuation point for each key.
2. Per-key RGB lighting.
3. Customizable media controls.
4. Dedicated game mode.
5. SteelSeries’ software for customization.

Cons:

1. Expensive compared to other options.
2. OmniPoint switches may take some getting used to.

https://www.amazon.com/SteelSeries-Apex-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard/dp/B07SVJJCP3

8. Koolertron Mechanical Keyboard with Cherry MX Red Switches

The Koolertron Mechanical Keyboard is a budget-friendly option that offers a solid typing experience. It features Cherry MX Red switches that provide a fast and quiet typing experience. The keyboard also has per-key RGB lighting and customizable macro functions. Additionally, the Koolertron Mechanical Keyboard includes software that allows you to easily program macros and customize the lighting.

Pros:

1. Affordable price.
2. Cherry MX Red switches for fast and quiet typing.
3. Per-key RGB lighting.
4. Customizable macro functions.
5. Customization software.

Cons:

1. No dedicated media controls.
2. No wrist rests.

https://www.amazon.com/Koolertron-Switches-Programmable-Mechanical-Single-Handed/dp/B074SGZ6Z4

9. Redragon K556 RGB LED Backlit Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

The Redragon K556 is a budget-friendly gaming keyboard that offers a lot of value for its price- point. It features Outemu Red switches that provide a fast and responsive typing experience. The keyboard also has per-key RGB lighting and customizable macro functions. Additionally, the Redragon K556 includes software that allows you to easily program macros and customize the lighting.

Pros:

1. Affordable price.
2. Outemu Red switches for fast and responsive typing.
3. Per-key RGB lighting.
4. Customizable macro functions.
5. Customization software.

Cons:

1. No dedicated media controls.
2. No wrist rests.

https://www.amazon.com/Redragon-K556-Mechanical-Keyboard-Aluminum/dp/B01NAI2TXC

10. Razer Huntsman Elite Mechanical Keyboard

The Razer Huntsman Elite is a high-end mechanical gaming keyboard that is designed to deliver fast and responsive performance. This keyboard is available on Amazon and has several key features that make it a standout choice for gamers and professionals. Overall, the Razer Huntsman Elite is a top-performing mechanical gaming keyboard that is packed with features and built to last. Its fast response times and customizable RGB lighting make it a standout choice for gamers and professionals alike.

Pros:

1. Fast and responsive performance thanks to Razer’s optical switches.
2. Customizable RGB lighting with the Razer Chroma software.
3. Durable construction with an aircraft-grade aluminum frame.
4. Dedicated media controls for easy volume adjustment and media control.

Cons:

1. Higher price point compared to other gaming keyboards.
2. Only available with a wireless connection, no wired option.

https://www.amazon.com/Razer-Huntsman-Elite-Gaming-Keyboard/dp/B085TD1TV2

These are the 10 best mechanical keyboards available on Amazon. When choosing a mechanical keyboard, it’s important to consider factors such as switch type, build quality, and customization options. By considering these factors, you can find a mechanical keyboard that meets your specific needs and provides a great typing experience.

Terminologies Related To Mechanical Keyboards

Mechanical keyboards are a popular choice among gamers and typists, offering a more satisfying and responsive typing experience compared to traditional rubber dome keyboards. With the increasing popularity of mechanical keyboards, it’s important to understand the terminologies related to these keyboards to make an informed purchasing decision.

1. Actuation Force

The actuation force is the amount of force required to activate a mechanical switch and register a keystroke. This force is measured in grams and can vary between different switch types. A lower actuation force requires less effort to press a key, making typing more comfortable, especially for users who type for extended periods of time.

2. Actuation Point

The actuation point is the point at which a mechanical switch is activated and a keystroke is registered. Different switch types have different actuation points, with some requiring a shorter travel distance to activate, while others require a longer travel distance. The actuation point can also affect the tactile feedback of a switch, with switches with a shorter actuation point providing more tactile feedback.

3. Tactile Feedback

Tactile feedback refers to the physical sensation a user experiences when pressing a key on a keyboard. This can include the force required to press a key, the sound of the switch, and the physical feedback of the switch. Different switch types provide different levels of tactile feedback, allowing users to find the perfect balance of tactile feedback and actuation force to suit their typing style.

4. Switch Types

Mechanical keyboards use different types of switches, each with its own unique feel, sound, and level of tactile feedback. The most common switch types include Cherry MX Red, Blue, Brown, Black, and Clear. Each switch type has a unique actuation force and actuation point, allowing users to choose the switch that best suits their typing style.

5. Key Rollover

Key rollover refers to the number of keys that can be pressed simultaneously and registered by the keyboard. A higher key rollover allows users to press multiple keys simultaneously, making it easier to perform complex actions in games and other applications.

6. N-key Rollover (NKRO)

N-key rollover (NKRO) refers to the ability of a keyboard to register an unlimited number of keys pressed simultaneously. This allows users to press as many keys as they need to, without worrying about ghosting or key blocking.

7. Ghosting

Ghosting refers to the phenomenon where pressing multiple keys simultaneously results in some keys not being registered by the keyboard. This can be a problem for users who perform complex actions, as ghosting can result in lost keystrokes.

8. Keycaps

Keycaps are the removable covers that sit on top of the mechanical switches on a keyboard. Keycaps are available in a range of sizes, shapes, and materials, and can be changed to customize the look and feel of a keyboard. Some popular materials for keycaps include ABS plastic, PBT plastic, and silicone.

Understanding the terminologies related to mechanical keyboards can help users make an informed purchasing decision. With a range of switch options, key rollover options, and keycap materials, mechanical keyboards provide users with a unique typing experience tailored to their needs. By understanding the actuation force, actuation point, tactile feedback, switch types, key rollover, keycaps, and other related terms, users can find the perfect mechanical keyboard to suit their needs.

Conclusion

Mechanical keyboards are worth it for users who value durability, precision, and responsiveness. Whether you’re a gamer looking to enhance your gaming experience or a typist looking to improve your typing accuracy, a mechanical keyboard can provide a long-lasting and satisfying typing experience.

Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular among both gamers and typists due to their durability, precision, and responsiveness. But before investing in a mechanical keyboard, it’s essential to consider factors such as switch type, cost, noise, and size. And in today’s world where concerns about the impact of excessive internet use on children are growing, it’s especially important to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks. By taking the time to evaluate your needs and priorities, you can make an informed decision about whether a mechanical keyboard is truly worth it for you and your family.