/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24522989/H_Herrera_keyboard_buying_guide.jpg "Top Mechanical Keyboards in 2023")
It’s difficult to find a better option than a mechanical keyboard when it comes to their tactile feel, durability, and attractive appearance. However, with so many options available, not all mechanical keyboards are created equal. Here are our top picks for both wired and wireless models, ranging from compact keyboards with laptop-style layouts to full-size keyboards with numpads. We cover a range of budgets in our selection.
While there’s nothing wrong with membrane keyboards like Apple’s popular Magic-branded devices, many people prefer mechanical keyboards for their tactile typing experience and long-lasting durability. There’s also a dedicated community of enthusiasts who enjoy modifying and customizing mechanical keyboards to achieve their desired look and feel, turning it into a fun hobby rather than just a PC accessory.
Most of the keyboards we recommend below feature a 75 percent layout, which is a compact form factor that includes a function row and arrow keys, similar to most laptop keyboards. It’s a great starting point unless you specifically want a keyboard with a number pad or prefer a different layout. Most of our recommendations also come in other layouts, and we’ve provided links where possible.
What We Look For:
1. Typing feel and sound: Since the primary reason for purchasing a mechanical keyboard is the tactile experience while typing, this was our main concern when selecting keyboards for this list. We also considered the quality of the keyboard’s stabilizers, which prevent longer keys like the space bar from rattling.
2. Readily available and fully assembled: For this list, we focused on keyboards that are easily accessible and come fully assembled. We excluded keyboards that require self-assembly or are only available through group buys or limited-edition releases.
3. Customizability: With one exception, we prioritized keyboards that offer hot-swappable switches, allowing for easy replacement if they break or if you want to try a different typing feel. Customizable layout and RGB lighting options were also important factors.
4. Mac and Windows compatibility: Good cross-compatibility between Windows and Mac is beneficial, such as keyboards that offer keycap legends for both OS or can easily switch layouts with a switch or shortcut.
While any keyboard can be used for gaming, this guide focuses on the best keyboards for typing and general office work, so factors like input latency and responsiveness were not major deciding factors. If you’re specifically looking for a gaming keyboard, check out our guide to the best gaming keyboards.
Here’s a quick explanation of some key keyboard terms:
– Switches: The component that registers each keypress. There are different types of switches, including clicky switches (loud and make a noticeable click sound), tactile switches (have a small bump when pressed), and linear switches (smooth and no bump or click).
– Hot-swappable switches: These switches can be easily removed without soldering, making it convenient to change the keyboard’s feel without replacing the entire keyboard.
– QMK: An open-source keyboard firmware that allows for customization, although it may be initially challenging for beginners.
– VIA: A well-designed app for configuring keyboards that run on QMK firmware.
– Keycap profile: Describes the shape of keycaps. Cherry is a popular traditional option, and other profiles include MT3, DCX, and MDA.
– North-facing switches: Switches with LED cutouts facing the back to better illuminate shine-through legends.
– South-facing switches: Switches with LED cutouts at the front to avoid interfering with Cherry-profile keycaps.
The Best Wired Keyboard for Most People:
The Keychron V1 is our top pick for an entry-level wired mechanical keyboard. It offers hot-swappable switches, full remappability with VIA software, high build quality, RGB backlighting, and double-shot PBT keycaps, all for under $100. The keyboard comes in various sizes and layouts, such as 60 percent, 65 percent, 75 percent, TKL, 1800, full size, 65 percent Alice, and 75 percent Alice. You can choose between different switch options like K Pro Red, K Pro Blue, and K Pro Brown. The V1 is compatible with both Mac and Windows, making it versatile and user-friendly. The volume knob-equipped model is available at an additional cost, but there is also a more basic version without keycaps or switches to save on the price.
The Best Premium Bluetooth Keyboard:
For those willing to spend more for a premium typing experience and wireless connectivity, the Keychron Q1 Pro is an excellent choice. It features a full aluminum chassis, gasket-mounted plate, Bluetooth connectivity, hot-swappable switches, and VIA compatibility. Despite its higher price point, the Q1 Pro offers superior build quality and flexibility. Its durable battery can last for over a month when used wirelessly with RGB lighting disabled. However, the battery life decreases to around a week when the backlighting is turned on. The Bluetooth connection is reliable, with no reported dropouts during testing. The Q1 Pro provides a step-up from the V-series keyboards by offering additional features and a more premium typing feel.