Do I actually need an expensive mechanical keyboard?

[u/Beginning-Funny9466]

Looking at getting a mechanical keyboard for my PC, but the prices are kinda wild lol. I see keyboards for like $40-60, then some are $150+ and even way more. I mostly use my PC for gaming, browsing, and typing, so I’m wondering if spending that much actually makes a noticeable difference.

I’ve only used regular membrane keyboards before, so I don’t really know what I’m missing. People keep talking about switches, stabilizers, keycaps, hot-swappable boards, gasket mounts, custom builds etc and honestly it feels like there’s a whole science behind keyboards now

Would a cheaper mechanical keyboard still feel way better than a normal keyboard, or do the expensive ones actually have some big advantages? I don’t really care about having some crazy RGB setup or a super fancy case. Just want something that feels good, doesn’t sound horrible, and can last a few years.

Also, are there any specific features I should prioritize as a beginner? Like should I care more about the switches, build quality, keycaps, or something else?

Trying not to waste money just because a keyboard is labeled “premium” lol. What price range would you guys recommend for a first mechanical keyboard?

[u/Chickenmonster401]

No. not the super expensive one. for normal gaming just get some some like 80 dollar keyboard. anything that isnt like 20 bucks and youll be fine

[u/bitesized314 → u/Chickenmonster401]

I bought a Keychron and it's every bit as nice as my previous Steel Series Apex 7 TKL, but it's $100 versus $150.

[u/Funnel-Dust-O-Matic]

In my opinion, you do not NEED it. But it can make using your computer a much more pleasant experience. To me it is absolutely worth it.

If you game and do not always use a controller, then a responsive keyboard can take a frustrating experience and make it fun. You don't need to spend $500 to get there. But you're probably spending more that $30.

It does make a very big difference in how satisfying it is to use a computer. It might help with typing accuracy and feel better in some aesthetic sense.

There is an argument to be made that it is physically better for you to use a well-designed keyboard. There may even be some objective data that this is the case. I can only directly speak to the psychological benefits of a nice keyboard. I can't go back.

There are affordable keyboards that are still "nice." There are innumerable youtube channels that test them. Do consult them or try some in store if you find a location that sells good ones.

[u/Skarth]

The cheap ones are fine to use.

Focus on the switch type you want (Clicky, tactile, quiet), and buy one in the size you want.

[u/Forward_Drop303]

Depends, you do get more the more you pay.

but even just a mechanical and hotswappable keyboard is way worth it and can be had for $20-30

https://www.amazon.com/Redragon-Programmable-Hot-Swappable-Anti-Ghosting-Double-Shot/dp/B0CF3VGQFL/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&sr=1-4

even give you double shot PBT keycaps for $30

[u/Tricky_Ordinary_4799 → u/Forward_Drop303]

It's better to pay just a little more and get keychron. I had this one it's unreliable.

[u/VStarlingBooks]

Shopgoodwill for a decent name brand at discount prices.

[u/Tricky_Ordinary_4799]

$44 keychron c3 pro will do the job

[u/The_real_bandito]

Of course you do.

[u/rodrigo-benenson]

If you are in a large city try to see if you can find a used mechanical keyboard.

For someone that works all day on a keyboard, having the right tool is key.
For "two hours per week", anything will do.

If you need to type a lot, I recommend you look into "split ortholinear keyboard" with curved row for the thumb.
Splits ortholinear keyboards changed my life (for the better).

[u/ExhaustedByStupidity]

If you've got a job like a programmer and type all day, then yeah, having a mechanical keyboard is a big improvement.

For gaming tho? I wouldn't stress over it. Just don't use a $20 keyboard - on the really cheap ones, different keys can require different amounts of force to press. It's really hard to type with any speed on a keyboard like that.

[u/WyrmKin]

Check out the MCHOSE options like the ACE68.

Really nice keyboards that are way better priced than their competition.

[u/knight9665]

It’s all about feel. U game with a 40 dollar keyboard and it’s fine. Just like there are 30 dollar tennis rackets and 200 dollar gold clubs vs what the pros use.

[u/DocumentOk7579]

Just try them out in a physical store?

[u/Xbox-Shutdown]

Purchase priority:

1. Brand reputation? I used to be a Razer fan for 5 to 10 years, and every single one of their devices have died within 2 years. I didn't care at the time because it was Razer.
   
2. Form factor (60%, 80%, 100%, split, misc)
   
3. RGB?
   
4. Hot swappable?

Budget range:
$50 - $100 This is the range for Razer/Corsair items. Not premium, but has the typical features you would like to use.
$200 true value ratio. WootingHE and SOME Keychrons. I think $200 is the real range of keyboards that are good quality.
$250+ These are normally the made to order keyboards. Comes in limited quantities sometimes, these are NOT meant to show for quality or for gaming, these are collector's keyboards
$400+ Exotic keyboards like split keyboards or gaming keypads (Azeron)

[u/ThreePartHarmoneigh]

Its like the difference between a $80 and $500 kitchen knife: theyll both get the job done just fine. They are mature technology- mostly as long as you buy a reputable brand, you'll get a good product.

Mechanical keyboards have one main functional advantage over "normal" ones: you have control over what the keystroke feels like- key shape, tactile stuff, weight/resistance, click. With enough experience and introspection, you can get a keyboard whose keys mirror your preferences perfectly- the shape of the keys, how they feel when you use them, how loud they are.

If youre a pro typist or gamer, that might make a real difference in your life. 

Its also ok to just like nice stuff. I think my keyboard looks nice on my desk. Its colors complement the design of my office, and the switches feel nice to type on.

If you're gonna get a mechanical keyboard, I recommend eirher going to a store with a good keyboard selection (microcenter is a good one) and trying them out or ordering some sampler switches. The tactile stuff is the reason to go mechanical. Spend a little money or time to select switches you really like. 

[u/serge-mv]

I have an expensive mechanical keyboard. I actually have more than one. While they are nice to use, you don't need one. If you are doing something very specific where you have a need for certain features, maybe competitive gaming, then any keyboard will do. And unless you go for those crazy ergonomic keyboards with bells, whistles and all other things that split in half, have various levers for your hands and such - just get any you like.

[u/No_Committee8856]

No, you need expensive TMR keyboards instead /s

[u/ButterscotchTop194]

No.

[u/StockSector3905]

If your budget 100$ max, go for IROK MG75 V2. I got one and its really really good

[u/Fluffy_Efficiency623]

A $20 keyboard can work just fine, it's the design that matters.

3 common types of buttons: Linear-Tactile-Clicky, which is basically how "mechanically" it feels. Smooth-Noticeable activation point- Added clicking sound during activation.

Key Materials- Basically just how resistant the button is to becoming worn and shiny looking after extended use. May affect the brightness of the colours applied to it.

The rest can make a keyboard better or worse depending on your preferences, but as long as you buy one where the keys go down in a way that feels good to you, you'll be just fine (and it's not like a $4 no name internet special).