The Best Mechanical Keyboard For Typing
Keyboards are the most common input device for a computer. In addition to their use in traditional typing, keyboards also provide shortcuts for keyboard commands (e.g., Ctrl+C) and hotkeys for functions like undoing actions or deleting text (e.g., ctrl-z). Their ubiquity has led to an increased interest in ergonomically minded keyboards, and the 'best' keyboard for typing is often defined by an individual's preference based on factors like key feel and spacing.
Mechanical keyboards are considered to be superior to membrane or dome-switch keyboards due to their increased durability. While membrane and dome-switch keyboards are capable of registering keypresses, the buttons only need to be pressed halfway down for a button press to be registered. In contrast, mechanical switches snap from up to down. This generally makes them more responsive and less likely to miss presses since users do not have to press keys as hard or in just the right spot. Additionally, they are often discrete buttons as opposed to the membrane keyboards' rubber pads which could wear out over time.
Keyboards with mechanical switches in the keys are made by several production companies like Logitech, Razer, Cooler Master, and Corsair. While they all use slightly different mechanical switches for their keyboards (Logitech has its proprietary Romer-G switch), most modern mechanical keyboards offer at least some degree of customization through key remapping and macros.
One of the biggest companies in this space is Corsair with its K95 and K70 keyboards which aim to offer a good mix of customization and performance. It has Cherry MX switches that come in different colors (e.g., red, blue, brown). The accompanying software allows for full customization of keypresses (i.e., remapping keys and creating macros). In addition, Corsair has a 10 key rollover on USB and a 1ms response time on the K95.
Keyboards with a different format, such as a ten-keyless keyboard, may be preferred for ergonomic reasons. The ten-keyless keyboard allows for more spacing between keys and frees up desk space. Users with larger hands may find the ten-keyless keyboard more comfortable as the bottom row of keys is further away from their fingertips. As such, those who wish to prioritize ergonomics over compactness will want to look for a ten-keyless mechanical keyboard.
Mechanical keyboards are typically more expensive than membrane keyboards due to their durability and increased functionality. Most membrane keyboards will cost around $10, while mechanical quality levels vary between ~$20 and ~$150. Membrane keyboards are generally more compact, however, making them a better choice for users prioritizing portability.
As mechanical keyboards are often larger and have different layouts, most do not include standard USB connectors. As such, manufacturers will typically bundle a detachable cable with their product or sell the cable separately. Users looking for the best mechanical keyboard should always check to see if they need to purchase any additional cables.
Differences of Mechanical Keyboards
Mechanical switches were designed after the traditional rubber dome keyboards that we're used to typing on. The biggest difference between a mechanical keyboard and a membrane keyboard is that instead of rubber domes, mechanical keyboards use individual switches for each key. There are two main types of switches: linear and tactile. Linear switches require a smooth action from top to bottom with no interruptions. Tactile switches however have a small bump at the actuation point halfway through the keystroke. Tactile switches are preferred by most gamers because they help provide a good indicator for when a button has been pressed. This is beneficial in games where you might need to press multiple keys at once, such as WASD for movement while shooting with a number pad. It's important to note that tactile switches aren't necessarily better than linear switches, they're just preferred by gamers for gaming-specific reasons.
Each Switch is composed of a housing, stem, and spring. The housing can be made out of ABS plastic or metal. It is the base that the keyboard switch attaches to on your keyboard. Stems are either removable or non-removable. If the stem doesn't come off then it's fixed (also known as soldered). Removable switches are easier to clean and replace but have the downside of being more prone to failure. Springs provide resistance against your fingers while you type so that it feels a bit like a weighted switch. If the spring isn't there, it's a linear switch, which means that there is no tactile bump or clicks feeling while typing.
Keyboards with tactile switches are often preferred because users can learn to recognize when their keyboard has registered a keypress, but gamers may be better served by linear switches which require less effort to depress and may therefore help reduce the chance of finger slip.
While mechanical switches may be superior to membrane keyboards in general, some people (especially typists) would argue that the loud noise created from typing makes them impractical for everyday use. Mechanical switches are often described as having a 'crisper' more defined tactile click when compared to rubber domes. Mechanical switches are also rated for a much longer lifespan than standard membrane keyboards, often in the tens of millions of keystrokes.
Mechanical keyboards are one of the most preferred options for gamers all over the world, but they are also good for writers, who type occasionally on their laptops. Mechanical keyboards offer ergonomic keystrokes and more comfort to your fingers. Typing long articles is easier with this comfortable keyboard because it gives you a better experience. There is a lot of multi-functional key and shortcut combinations available on the keyboard so you can perform better. These keyboards also come with an ergonomic design to support your fingers. It's high time we should leave the membrane keyboards behind and switch to the mechanical ones for a better typing experience.
A mechanical keyboard offers more comfort because of its tactile feedback. There is also a loud clicking sound when you press a key on this keyboard, which is caused by the mechanical switches of each key. The good thing about these keyboards is that every key has a separate switch, so it's easier to replace if something wrong happens with one of them.
There are many different types of mechanical keyboards available in the market, but they are not suitable for everyone. Some of these keyboards have high key resistance, which may give you a tough time while typing. You must try to find the perfect balance between tactile feedback and key resistance.
Another important thing is that you can't use these keyboards easily with your smartphone or laptop. The tangle-free braided cables are the only way to connect them via USB ports. You might also consider checking whether it has a plug-and-play option or not.
In a nutshell, there are many things to consider while buying a mechanical keyboard. But the benefits of using these keyboards easily outweigh the cons of it. It's high time we should switch from membrane keyboards to mechanical ones for a better typing experience and comfort.
We are Mechanical Keyboards enthusiasts. We enjoy typing more on mechanical keyboards. We have tried to explain the difference between membrane & mechanical keyboard here. If you are searching for a good mechanical keyboard then please don't forget to read this article before purchasing one else it will be a waste of money..
Key Features of The Best Mechanical Keyboard for typing
Many gamers swear by mechanical keyboards for gaming because of their durability and responsiveness. There is no need to replace rubber dome keyboards with membrane switches. These are what the regular keyboards you find at your local Best Buy uses, just replaceable keycaps with rubber domes that give you tactile feedback for successful actuation.
Although mechanical gaming keyboards come at a higher price than membrane ones, the benefits they offer may be more than enough for hard-core gamers. Since they feature physical switches and higher build quality, you can expect them to last longer and deliver better tactile feedback.
Mechanical keyboards offer superior performance, durability, and tactility compared to rubber dome keyboards found in most traditional setups. Considered as one of the best choices for typists, these keyboards deliver a delightful experience for many users.
Why Choose a Mechanical Keyboard for Typing
Traditionally, mechanical keyboards have been found mainly in the computer gaming community because these devices offer a satisfying keystroke through tactile and auditory feedback. Typists also benefit from this setup as they can "feel" the keys being pressed down.
In addition to providing extremely responsive feedback, these keyboards are designed to prevent ghosting, which is the act of pressing one key at a time without it registering. This feature is important because typists tend to press multiple keys at once or rapidly in succession.
Even before computers were available for everyone, factories used mechanical switches for their devices. The first computer keyboards used a mechanism called the buckling spring. This implementation was rather expensive but it could withstand millions of keystrokes without losing any of its reliability over time.
In 1984, IBM introduced the first rubber dome keyboard which featured a single plastic sheet with domes that were activated by springs when pressed down. Most manufacturers use this implementation because it requires less force to press keys through the rubber dome membrane.
However, this design does not provide tactile or auditory feedback which is why mechanical switches provide an advantage by insisting that users press with their entire fingers or palms for it to work properly. This technique prevents misclicks and allows you to type at your most efficient speed.
Instrumental to efficient typing is a computer keyboard. A mechanical keyboard is a significant improvement over the conventional keyboards that are commonly used. It provides a superior tactile response with improved durability, for more effective typing with improved comfortability which can be attributed to its better design and materials used.
The Best Mechanical Keyboard for Typing is a treat for those who type often and with great speed. The experience of the mechanical key switches provides the right tactile feedback needed for such activities as typing, coding, data entry, and gaming. With each press registering as an individual keystroke without fail, the keyboard delivers on its promise of accuracy and consistent speed.
Different Categories of a Mechanical Keyboard
Many people are unaware of the differences in keyboards available on the market today. This article emphasizes how there are three different categories of keyboards based on their mechanism, namely: linear, tactile, or clicky, and rubber dome membrane switches. Rubber dome membrane switches are considered to be the least popular among the three. Linear keyboards such as the Redragon Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard has no physical feedback and is often associated with chiclet keys found in most laptops and notebook computers. Tactile or clicky keyboards provide a small bump when each keystroke is registered by the computer. This gives users a physical confirmation that the key has been pressed. Clicky keyboards are very popular among gamers and heavy typists who want to avoid mistakes when inputting commands into their computers. Most clicky keyboards use Razer Huntsman Elite Gaming Keyboard.
Best Settings For a Mechanical Keyboard
The Best Mechanical Keyboard for Typing can be used in almost any setting - from fast typing on a computer to gaming enthusiasts looking to improve their speed and accuracy or even casual gamers who need a better way of inputting commands while playing.
The Best Mechanical Keyboard for Typing is a personalized device that enhances typing productivity while also adding to the experience of using it. It can be customized to fit the user's lifestyle and usage preferences, which allows for a more pleasant typing experience. Typically made of an ABS or metal material, these types of keyboards are designed specifically with typing in mind. They usually have ergonomic features such as key travel depth and spacing which accommodate the different needs of different people.
Reviews of the Best Mechanical Keyboards for Typing
Image | Title | Prime | Buy |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Redragon K556 RGB LED Backlit Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Aluminum Base, 104 Standard Keys | PrimeEligible | Check Price |
![]() | Redragon K580 VATA RGB LED Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with Macro Keys & Dedicated Media Controls, Onboard Macro Recording (Blue Switches) | PrimeEligible | Check Price |
![]() | Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Backlit RGB LED, Cherry MX Speed RGB Silver, Black (CH-9127414-NA) | PrimeEligible | Check Price |
![]() | Razer Huntsman Elite Gaming Keyboard: Fastest Keyboard Switches Ever - Clicky Optical Switches - Chroma RGB Lighting - Magnetic Plush Wrist Rest - Dedicated Media Keys & Dial - Classic Black | PrimeEligible | Check Price |
![]() | Logitech G613 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Multihost 2.4 GHz + Bluetooth Connectivity (Renewed) | PrimeEligible | Check Price |
The Redragon K556 is a mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX Blue switches. The switches are adequate for typing, but I prefer the Reds or Blacks which have less resistance and therefore require less hand strength to type with. However for gaming, specifically FPS games like Apex Legends and CS: GO, this keyboard works very well and doesn't tire out my hands or arms.
The K556 has a detachable wrist rest which is nice because it makes the keyboard easier to transport, but also I can swap it to whichever side of the keyboard suits me best. I like that the K556 has a built-in volume control knob and separate media controls. Most keyboards will have these on the F1-F12 keys, but not having to use Function + another key to change volume is much more convenient. Also, there are individual buttons for adjusting Gaming mode, Windows Keylock, brightness, etc. The lights are bright enough to see but not too bright that it's uncomfortable.
The backlight colors are red for the standard keys and white for the multimedia functions. Some people may want more color options, however I think this is fine since the colors go well together and it's easy to see what each key does from a distance.
- Mechanical Brown Switches: Offering the satisfying tactile typing experience, also being ever so slightly quieter, fitting for office or gaming use. And you will get 8 spare switches as a gift.
- 18 Backlit Modes: Press FN + INS-PgDn to enter Pro-gamer mode. RGB LED adjustable lighting with 6-themed backlights -18 lighting models. You can also adjust their brightness with FN+“↑”and“↓” Besides, there is a 9-color single backlit mode for this keyboard.
- N-key Rollover, Ergonomic And Durable Design: This keyboard is made of full metal material, with matte-finish texture, solid enough to protect it from scratch. It allows multi-keys to work simultaneously with high speed.
- Self-design & Removable Keycaps: The Redragon K556 features a custom designed keycap that has been made shorter to reduce the time it takes for your actions to register. Include a keycaps puller for clean or other needs.
- Wide Compatibility: Support computer system including Windows10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Mac OS X, Windows XP, Windows VISTA, etc.
Things We Liked
Things We Didn’t Like
Redragon K580 VATA is another mechanical keyboard introduced by Redragon. As with the previous model, M801 Mammoth, this cheap mechanical keyboard also comes with a standard 104-key QWERTY ANSI layout that you can find with most keyboards in the market. Its main key feature is its blue switches. This is unlike any other keyboard that you can find in the market.
The keys of this cheap mechanical keyboard are not too noisy and the tactile feedback is decent. However, it does not have a backlit which makes it very tough to use especially when playing games at night time since the user will need to play blindly. There are also no dedicated macro buttons on this keyboard.
The cheap mechanical keyboard has a shorter cable length which should not be a problem since it is designed for small desktops and people will not even need to move the keyboard too far away from their computer tower. However, if you want to extend its cable length by using an extension cord, then you can do that as well without any problem.
- 5 Macro Keys: There are 5 programmable macro keys(G1~G5) on the keyboard which can be recorded macros on the fly without any additional software required to be installed. Easy to edit and DIY your stylish keyboard.
- Dedicated Multimedia Controls: The multimedia controls let you quickly play, pause, skip the music right from the keyboard without interrupting your game. Also, designed with a volume/backlight adjust wheel, its easy to adjust volume or backlight brightness directly with the wheel in the upper right side of the keyboard. Very convenient and cool looking.
- N-key Rollover: 104 keys anti-ghosting allows you to simultaneously click multiple keys. The floating keys and Redragon blue switches will give you a great gaming experience with fast response and nice clicky sound.
- Durability: 50 million times keystroke test, 60g actuation force, and 2.3 mm short travel. Special Double-shot injection molded keycaps never fade key font with waterproof and dust resistant mechanical switch.
- RGB Backlight: 18 backlight models allow you to type in the dark. You can adjust its brightness with a control wheel or FN + Up/Down. 5 modes of RGB side edge lighting. The color of each key lighting on the keyboard can be customized easily without installing software, a great choice to DIY your stylish keyboard.
Things We Liked
Things We Didn’t Like
The Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT is no doubt one of the best gaming keyboards available everywhere. It has just about every feature you would want on a gaming keyboard, with an endless list of customizable options thanks to its seamless built-in support for Corsair's CUE (Corsair Utility Engine) software.
The Keyboard's additional features are extensive. 8MB of onboard memory allows you to store up to 3 profiles that can be accessed at the touch of a button even when there is no software installed. It has 6 dedicated, programmable macro keys for simple key combinations, which makes it incredibly easy to activate complex commands with just 1 or 2 presses. It is also fully programmable with the included software, so you can use it to adjust the colors and lighting of each individual key, create custom text labels and hotkeys, and configure up to 9 presets for different games.
The most interesting thing about this keyboard however is its dedicated media keys that give you quick access to play/pause and volume controls, and a small roller that can be used to adjust the brightness levels.
- Per-key RGB backlighting and a 19-zone LightEdge across the top of the keyboard delivers dynamic and vibrant lighting effects with near-limitless customization
- Tuned for low noise operation even at full load; MTBF hours
- Gain an in-game advantage with six dedicated macro keys fully programmable for complex macros and key remaps or swap to the included S-key keycaps and program special streaming commands through Elgato Stream Deck software
- Cherry MX Speed RGB Silver mechanical key switches provide ultra-fast 1.2 millimeter actuation and proven reliability with 100 million keystrokes
- A detachable soft textured cushioned leatherette palm rest offers the plush comfort to breeze through marathon gaming sessions
Things We Liked
Things We Didn’t Like
The Razer Huntsman Elite is an improvement on the already great Razer Huntsman, adding in dedicated media keys and Chroma RGB lighting. Razer has created a keyboard with great features put into a simple, minimalistic design. This sleek look gives it that extra touch of premium feel, something that most gaming keyboards tend to be lacking.
The Razer Huntsman uses Razer Green switches, which are a clicky switch that requires a bit more force to actuate. The keys also have an auditory and tactile feedback when the key is pressed, which makes for a satisfying typing experience. While it may take a while to get used to a mechanical keyboard, once you do it's hard going back to anything else.
The Razer Huntsman Elite offers a range of new features, including media keys on the top right side of the keyboard. These are specifically designed for people who use their computer to listen to music and play games. The top row of buttons can be used to control your volume level or skip tracks without having to minimize your gaming window and look for a shortcut key on your desktop. The Razer Huntsman Elite also has an RGB backlight that can be customized through the use of the Razer Synapse software, allowing you to tailor your lighting experience to fit your preferences and personal style.
Unlike some keyboards which come with a set of different coloured keycaps, the Razer Huntsman only comes with green keycaps and a black base. If you really want some extra colour in your life, Razer sells packs of interchangeable keys that come in a variety of different colours and designs. This may seem like an unnecessary feature but some gamers find it useful to be able to make certain keys important without having to look at their keyboard (eg: changing W into a hotkey for movement).
- Faster Than Legacy Mechanical Switches: Razer Optical switches use light-based actuation, registering key presses at the speed of light (30% shorter actuation distance than other clicky switches at 1.5 millimeter) with satisfying, clicky feedback
- Ultimate Personalization & Gaming Immersion with Razer Chroma: Fully syncs with popular games, Razer hardware, Philips Hue, and gear from 30 plus partners; supports 16.8 million colors on individually backlit keys
- Quality, Aluminum Construction: Covered with a matte, aluminum top frame for increased structural integrity. Keycaps-Regular ABS
- Ergonomic, Magnetic Wrist Rest: Made of plush leatherette to maximize comfort over extended gaming sessions (with built-in underglow lighting)
- Fully Programmable Macro Support: Razer Hypershift allows for all keys and keypress combinations to be remapped to execute complex commands
- Unrivalled Durability: Supports up to 100 million clicks with a 2 year manufacturer warranty, double the lifespan of most competitor keyboards
Things We Liked
Things We Didn’t Like
Logitech LIGHTSPEED provides low latency performance, 1 ms report rate and interference-free performance with multi-system compatibility. The battery lasts up to 18 months, so you can play uninterrupted for longer. Bluetooth connection lets you pair the keyboard to your mobile devices. Advanced Power Management (APM) function extends battery life by completely shutting down the keyboard once it goes idle. The G613's durable design has spill-resistant, mechanical key switches that provide precise and accurate input. Plus multimedia controls allow you to quickly play or pause music, skip to the next track, rewind or fast forward.
The Logitech G613 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a plug and play wireless mechanical keyboard with white LED backlighting. The low-profile keys barely make a sound and don't require much force to press, so you can double-tap faster for strategic victories. With its USB 2.0 pass-through port, you never need to unplug the wireless receiver. This keyboard is a great choice for fast-paced games whether you play online or in your living room. This could be one of the best budget keyboards for typing as its quite cheap.
The keyboard also supplies 6 G-Keys, which can be programmed to perform specific commands while typing. This can be beneficial for repetitive tasks, or if you want to use commands similar to a Mac but have a PC. This keyboard also has Romer-G Switches, which are comparable to that of the other keyboard switches in this list.
- LIGHTSPEED wireless technology for super fast 1 ms report rate
- Romer-G mechanical switches deliver quiet, precise mechanical performance and 70 million click life for incredible feel and durability
- Six programmable G keys put custom macro sequences and in-app commands at your fingertips.1 Customize G key profiles individually for each app
- Multihost 2.4GHz + Bluetooth: Connect via LIGHTSPEED for super fast 1ms report rate or connect to multiple devices with multi-host Bluetooth connectivity
Things We Liked
Things We Didn’t Like
If you’re looking to go mechanical in the keyboard department, you need to first look at what kind of a typer you are. For example, I’m a very heavy typer, so the red or blue switches on some keyboards do not work for me. In addition, the Romer G switches can be hard because there is no texture to pushing the keys, and you can’t really tell when you’re pushing it.
It’s really nice to have a mechanical keyboard. The best mechanical keyboards for typing are those that make a nice sound, have a good tactile feel, and are made to last so that you aren’t worried about wearing your switches. All of the keyboards on our list have met those standards which is something you need to consider when buying a mechanical keyboard for typing.
That being said, these keyboards are incomparable in terms of mechanical typing value. They are providing great quality, durability, and aesthetics with the satisfaction of a mechanical keyboard for typing.
Conclusion
All computer users need to be thinking about what kind of keyboard is the best mechanical keyboard for typing 2022. This decision can be a hard one but look no further- we’ve done the work for you. The best mechanical keyboard for typing is, by far, the Corsair K95. While it is definitely the most expensive keyboard on our list, the bang is worth the buck. You are getting an impressive keyboard with an RGB LED system that can’t be beat, although it might take a little practice on the software to master.
Amongst the very impressive features of this keyboard, the Corsair K95 offers high quality Cherry MX RGB Speed switches, which makes it so that you can type fast with optimal sensitivity. The durability of the Corsair K95 is unbeatable in comparison to other keyboards, and it has absolutely no latency, which most of the other keyboards mentioned above had at least one Amazon customer mention latency issues.
Our Top Pick
If you’re looking for the best mechanical keyboard for typing, you found it: Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT. Go get yours today!