The Best Mechanical Keyboards
With extreme responsiveness and a satisfying feel, mechanical keyboards are ideal for everything from work to gaming. And considering the amount of time that most of us spend click-clacking away every day, the investment is worth every penny. But with so many options to consider, finding the right piece of hardware can be difficult. That's why we've whittled down the options to the best of the best.
What to Look For
We put a lot of thought and research into our search for the best mechanical keyboards, and we used five main questions to guide us: Does it have fast and responsive inputs? Does it have a comfortable well-sized layout? Does it look cool? Is it best for work, gaming, or both? Is the price fair for the quality? Our top choice comes from Logitech G since their G Pro models offer incredibly reliable hardware and stylish aesthetics. But if you’re more interested in something more affordable and gamer-oriented, the RisoPhy option is an excellent and full-sized choice. There’s a lot to explore, so let’s dive into the reviews and recommendations.
Logitech G PRO Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The greatest in the game
The Logitech G PRO mechanical gaming keyboard has it all. From the space-efficient design to the programmable LEDs, it’s a beast of a keyboard within an unassuming body. Add to that a few nifty features, such as a “gaming mode” toggle switch and a durable construction, and you have yourself our favorite mechanical keyboard. We also love the simplicity of the hardware, as it uses a micro USB cable and an easy-to-customize interface. And even if you’re not a gamer, this keyboard offers pleasing keystrokes and a standard key layout on which most computer workers will feel right at home.
Pros:
- Versatile
- Familiar key placement
- Feels strong and hefty
- Numerous options for customization
- Satisfying clicky-clacky sounds, yet not excessively loud
Cons:
- No right-side-oriented number pad
RisoPhy Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Beat the competition
If you’re a gamer, just about any mechanical keyboard will likely do the job. But this option from RisoPhy brings some gamer-focused features to the table that make it a fast favorite. For example, the spill-resistant design protects the contacts from gunk building up, which could mean the difference between a registered keystroke and a missed win. It’s also backlit with a stunning array of LEDs, and you can customize them as you please to help immerse yourself in the digital world. Most importantly, it has a full 104 keys, including a number pad, so you can fine-tune your hotkeys how you like.
Pros:
- Bonafide “blue switches” for that classic clicky response
- Great ergonomic feel along the WASD side
- Drain holes to prevent short circuits from accidental spills
- Super inexpensive
Cons:
- It’s a full-size keyboard, so it takes up relatively more room on your desk
Logitech G413 SE Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Ready for work
A full-size keyboard may have that coveted number pad, but it can also offer greater control over your computer rig. This Logitech G413 excels in that area, with its 104 standard keys and tactile feel. The 12 function keys let you toggle various useful inputs for gaming and work, such as volume controls, a play button, a mute key, and even a lighting toggle for adjusting the backlit LEDs. It’s thus the ideal option for those that need a versatile keyboard since you can switch between work and play without switching your hardware.
Pros:
- Anti-ghosting reduces missed inputs
- Raised keys for a genuinely mechanical, tactile feel
- Sleek, discreet style
- Bargain price for the high quality
Cons:
- LED customization is limited
FIRSTBLOOD ONLY GAME. AK510 Retro Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
A timeless classic
For those looking for a mechanical keyboard with nostalgia for the 90s in their hearts, your search may end here. This retro mechanical keyboard not only has both the tactile feel and the muted colors of classic hardware. The grey-and-off-white color scheme eschews the latest trends of black, sleek styles for a blast to the past. But though it may look dated, this keyboard is still a modern piece of hardware that delivers extremely precise inputs and an intuitive layout.
Pros:
- RGB backlighting can be toggled
- Red switches offer responsive keystrokes
- Easy setup
- Not distractingly loud but still clicky-clacky
Cons:
- Touch typists may find the bumps on the F and J keys to be too small to find without looking
Havit Mechanical Keyboard with Number Pad
Keep it space efficient
Compact keyboards often cut out the number pad, but this 89-key option doesn’t. The number pad is positioned above the arrow keys, so you can still punch in number inputs without sacrificing space efficiency. And besides the compact design, this beauty offers everything else we look for. It’s stylish, responsive, and affordably priced.
Pros:
- Red switches
- Ergonomic feel
- Great for gaming and work due to the number pad
- Low price
Cons:
- It doesn’t come with an LED backlight
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between red and blue keys?
Mechanical keyboards with red keys are usually slightly quieter and offer a smoother keystroke. Blue keys, however, are often raised higher and produce a louder click. The latter keys might feel somewhat lighter and springier, though some prefer the
Are mechanical keyboards good for gaming?
They are excellent. Mechanical keyboards often offer a more tactile feel and greater responsiveness. Many also have an anti-ghosting feature, which can prevent missed inputs.
About the Author
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.