The Best Mechanical Keyboard for Typists
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Most people are familiar with mechanical keyboards for gaming use, but what about using one primarily for typing? The main benefit of using a mechanical keyboard instead of a standard keyboard is durability. In addition, using a tool like this can diminish the number of typing errors in your work.
A mechanical keyboard will feel the same, even after using it for several years. Keep in mind that this type of keyboard will weigh more than the average keyboard. While this makes them less portable, it also creates more stability as you work from your home office.
Fortunately, the competitive market has driven down the cost of mechanical keyboards. They are now more affordable than ever before.
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Mechanical Keyboard
As with any other purchase, there are some unique factors to keep in mind when you’re shopping for a mechanical keyboard. Let’s take a look at some of these now:
The brand
Brand matters when it comes to picking the right mechanical keyboard for your needs. Try to pick a company that’s been around for a while and has some positive user reviews to back it up. If you come across a product from an unheard-of company that has no reviews, it’s probably best to steer clear of it.
Size
Different typists have different needs. While some may require a full-size keyboard complete with a number pad, other shoppers will be more concerned about saving desk space. Figure out whether you want a full size or more compact model before you buy.
Noise level
Mechanical keyboards come with a variety of different noise levels. Do you want each key to make a loud “clack” sound as you type? Or would you prefer that your mechanical keyboard is a bit quieter
Checking out user reviews on each product you’re considering will help you determine what to expect from different keyboards when it comes to noise.
Lighting
Do you plan to use your mechanical keyboard in dim lighting conditions? Many models will come with LED backlighting and vary in terms of how much you can customize these settings.
Before you select your mechanical keyboard, figure out how much you want to be able to customize the light settings and whether the model you’ve got your eye on has this capability. Light customization may be more important for gamers than typists, but is still an in-demand feature for most mechanical keyboard users.
What are the Best Mechanical Keyboards for Typists?
Now that you know what to look for and consider for your next mechanical keyboard, it’s time to check out some prospects.
Below, we’ll review our top picks for mechanical keyboards. These products come in a wide range of prices.
The CODE 87-Key Illuminated Mechanical Keyboard
The CODE 87-Key Illuminated Mechanical Keyboard has full white LED backlighting and comes with seven different brightness levels. You can use this keyboard even in dim lighting. The onboard memory function saves your lighting preference and the gold-plated contacts on this product are rated at 50 million cycles.
The CODE 87-Key Illuminated Mechanical Keyboard has a built-in DIP switch and output modes that are hardware-level configurable. The slim case design comes with a detachable micro USB cable and multichannel routing system for cables.
Each key switch is mounted to a sturdy steel back plate, which provides a super sturdy feel as you type.
Pros
- Minimalist design
- Compact and convenient
- White LED backlighting
- Multimedia shortcuts
- Configurable key output
Cons
- Paint wears off keys after a while
The Das Keyboard 4 Professional Clicky MX Blue Mechanical Keyboard
The Das Keyboard 4 Professional Clicky MX Blue Mechanical Keyboard is a high-performance keyboard. This German-engineered product comes with gold-plated switches for audible feedback and a better tactile experience. You can quickly adjust the volume of your music or other programs with the over-sized volume knob.
The top panel is made with new anodized aluminum to improve the durability of the keyboard. You can use the instant sleep button to put your computer to sleep and save energy when you need a break from work.
The Das Keyboard 4 Professional Clicky MX Blue Mechanical Keyboard comes with an extra-long cable for your convenience.
Pros
- Sturdy and reliable
- Attractive design
- Oversized volume knob
- Well-positioned USB ports
Cons
- Key paint may fade
- No support for customization
Note that this mechanical keyboard also comes in a lighter touch version.
The Best Mechanical Keyboard for Mac
The Nixeus Moda Pro
The Moda Pro Mechanical Keyboard comes with up to 50 million keystrokes and can be expected to last 10 times longer than a standard membrane keyboard. The premium build uses steel plate-reinforced material for a sturdy product and you can use Mac keycaps for your MacOS computer.
The Nixeus Moda Pro Mechanical Keyboard allows for third-party modifications, user customization, and is easy to maintain. The blue mechanical switches create tactile bump feedback and an audible click. The result is a feel similar to a classic typewriter.
Pros
- Feels like a typewriter
- Lasts 50 million keystrokes
- Compatible with Mac
- User customization options
Cons
- The new version doesn’t work as well as previous
Best Budget Pick
The VELOCIFIRE TKL01 Mechanical Keyboard
The VELOCIFIRE TKL01 Mechanical Keyboard works well for editors, programmers, and typists who spend their days typing. This could be a good option for people who are new to mechanical keyboards since it’s not as loud as other models. The low-noise switches come with tactile bump feedback every time you press a key.
While The VELOCIFIRE TKL01 Mechanical Keyboard is louder than a standard keyboard, it’s quieter than blue switch models. Offering better typing accuracy, this product has a standard key layout minus the numeric keys.
Its compact design will fit anywhere and save you some space on your desk. Note: the manufacturer states that this keyboard is not Mac compatible.
Pros
- Smooth LED light
- Smooth keycaps
- Keys are quieter than average
Cons
- Not Mac Compatible
- Fewer lighting options
- Non-removable cable
Using a mechanical keyboard can completely transform your typing experience. Not only will it reduce the number of typos you make, but its durable design will give you peace of mind.
Remember to keep in mind user reviews, the noise level you want, and custom LED settings. Also, remember to choose an option that has a numerical pad section if you need that for your work.
Hopefully, this articled helped you find a model that suits your needs and preferences. Happy typing!
Feature Image Photo by Soumil Kumar from Pexels