Best Mechanical Keyboards to Buy in January 2026
Redragon Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Wired, 11 Programmable Backlit Modes, Hot-Swappable Red Switch, Anti-Ghosting, Double-Shot PBT Keycaps, Light Up Keyboard for PC Mac
- CUSTOMIZE YOUR AMBIANCE: 11 BACKLIGHTS WITH ADJUSTABLE SPEED & BRIGHTNESS.
- STREAMLINE YOUR WORKFLOW: MACRO EDITING FOR EFFICIENT SHORTCUTS & FUNCTIONS.
- SMOOTH GAMEPLAY EXPERIENCE: HOT-SWAPPABLE SWITCHES WITH ANTI-GHOSTING KEYS.
Redragon K668 RGB Gaming Keyboard, 108 Keys Wired Mechanical Keyboard w/Extra 4 Hotkeys, Sound Absorbing Foams, Upgraded Hot-swappable Socket, Mixed Color Keycaps x 2 Sets, Red Switch
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HOT-SWAPPABLE RED SWITCHES FOR CUSTOMIZATION AND QUIET TYPING.
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FULL 108-KEY LAYOUT WITH 104 ANTI-GHOSTING KEYS FOR SEAMLESS INPUT.
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VIBRANT RGB LIGHTING WITH 19 MODES FOR IMMERSIVE GAMING EXPERIENCE.
AUSDOM Silent Wireless Bluetooth Mechanical Keyboard, BT5.3/Type-C/2.4G Hot swappable Gaming Keyboards with Quiet Switch, RGB Backlit, Numpad, Cute Pink Creamy Keyboard for Mac/Win/Office, 98 Keys
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SILENT TYPING & 2MS RESPONSE: ENJOY QUIET, ULTRA-FAST TYPING FOR GAMERS AND PROS.
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TRI-MODE CONNECTIVITY & RGB: CONNECT ACROSS DEVICES WITH STUNNING RGB EFFECTS.
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8000MAH BATTERY & COMFORT KEYS: EXTENDED USE WITH ERGONOMIC KEYS, NO BATTERY ANXIETY!
AULA F99 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard,Tri-Mode BT5.0/2.4GHz/USB-C Hot Swappable Custom Keyboard,Pre-lubed Linear Switches,RGB Backlit Computer Gaming Keyboards for PC/Tablet/PS/Xbox
- SEAMLESS MULTI-DEVICE CONNECTIVITY: CONNECT UP TO 5 DEVICES EFFORTLESSLY!
- CUSTOMIZABLE HOT-SWAP DESIGN: EASILY SWITCH SWITCHES/KEYCAPS WITHOUT SOLDERING.
- VIBRANT RGB & MACRO SUPPORT: 16 EFFECTS ENHANCE GAMING AMBIANCE & FUNCTIONALITY!
Newmen GM611 Mechanical Keyboard,Rainbow LED Backlit Gaming Wired Keyboards Compact Mini 61 Keys Portable 60 Percent Mechanical Keyboard with Black Keycaps,for Windows Laptop PC Linear Red Switches
- 60% COMPACT DESIGN MAXIMIZES DESKTOP SPACE FOR GAMERS & TYPISTS.
- 19 VIBRANT LED EFFECTS CREATE AN IMMERSIVE GAMING ATMOSPHERE.
- N-KEY ROLLOVER ENSURES EVERY KEYSTROKE REGISTERS FOR PEAK PERFORMANCE.
Logitech USB 2.0 G413 SE Full-Size Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - Backlit Keyboard with Tactile Mechanical Switches, Anti-Ghosting, Compatible with Windows, macOS - Black Aluminum
- DURABLE PBT KEYCAPS: BUILT TO RESIST HEAT AND WEAR FOR LONGEVITY.
- TACTILE MECHANICAL SWITCHES: ENJOY UNCOMPROMISING PERFORMANCE WHILE GAMING.
- SLEEK DESIGN & BACKLIT: ELEVATE YOUR SETUP WITH PREMIUM MATERIALS AND LIGHTING.
AULA F75 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard,75% Hot Swappable Custom Keyboard with Knob,RGB Backlit,Pre-lubed Reaper Switches,Side Printed PBT Keycaps,2.4GHz/USB-C/BT5.0 Mechanical Gaming Keyboards
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TRI-MODE CONNECTIVITY FOR 5 DEVICES EFFORTLESSLY SWITCH BETWEEN BLUETOOTH, 2.4GHZ, AND USB.
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HOT-SWAP CUSTOMIZATION EASILY REPLACE SWITCHES WITHOUT SOLDERING FOR A PERSONALIZED FEEL.
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VIBRANT RGB WITH 16.8M COLORS ELEVATE YOUR SETUP WITH CUSTOMIZABLE LIGHTING EFFECTS.
Redragon K556 RGB LED Backlit Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, 104 Keys Hot-Swap Mechanical Keyboard w/Aluminum Base, Upgraded Socket and Noise Absorbing Foams, Soft Tactile Brown Switch
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99.8% SWITCH COMPATIBILITY: EFFORTLESS CUSTOMIZATIONS WITH HOT-SWAP DESIGN.
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SOLID ALUMINUM BUILD: PREMIUM, ELEGANT STABILITY ENHANCES YOUR TYPING EXPERIENCE.
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ENDLESS RGB CUSTOMIZATION: CHOOSE FROM 20 MODES TO ENHANCE YOUR SETUP'S FLAIR.
RK ROYAL KLUDGE S98 Mechanical Keyboard w/Smart Display & Knob, Top Mount 96% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard BT/2.4G/USB-C, Hot Swappable, Software Support, Creamy Sounding, 98 Keys
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CUSTOMIZE DISPLAY: SHOW CUSTOM GIFS, DATE, MODES, AND BATTERY STATUS.
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EASY CONTROLS: TWIST OR CLICK KNOBS FOR VOLUME, COLORS, AND SETTINGS.
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SEAMLESS CONNECTIVITY: BT 5.0, 2.4GHZ, AND USB-C FOR VERSATILE USE.
Choosing a mechanical keyboard can greatly depend on personal preferences and requirements. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting the right mechanical keyboard for you:
Switch Type: The switch types determine how the keys feel and sound when pressed. Popular options include tactile, linear, and clicky switches. Tactile switches provide tactile feedback, linear switches are smooth, and clicky switches produce an audible click with each press.
Keycaps: Keycaps are the pieces you actually press when typing. Consider the material, legends (letters and symbols on the keys), and profile (shape and height). Some keyboards also allow for customization or use standard keycap sizes, while others have unique layouts.
Backlighting: Backlit keyboards offer illumination for the keys. Choose between single-color or RGB backlighting with customizable lighting effects. Some keyboards also allow for individual key programming, creating customized lighting patterns.
Connectivity: Mechanical keyboards can be wired or wireless. Wired keyboards have a direct connection to your device, ensuring a stable and responsive connection. Wireless keyboards provide flexibility but may have a slight delay. Consider your preference and the specific use case.
Layout: Determine whether you prefer a full-sized keyboard with a numpad or a more compact layout like tenkeyless (TKL) or smaller. Compact sizes may lack certain keys, so ensure the layout suits your needs.
Build Quality: Mechanical keyboards can vary in build quality. Look for keyboards made with durable materials and reinforced design. Additionally, some keyboards are more portable than others, which may be important if you plan to travel with it.
Brand Reputation: Research different brands and their reputations in the mechanical keyboard market. Established brands often have better quality control and offer better customer support. Read reviews and user feedback to make an informed decision.
Price: Set a budget for your mechanical keyboard. Prices can vary significantly depending on the brand, features, and build quality. Consider how much you are willing to spend while finding a keyboard that meets your requirements.
Ultimately, the perfect mechanical keyboard is subjective, so it's helpful to try out different keyboards or switches whenever possible to find the best fit for your typing style and preferences.
Can I use a mechanical keyboard for both gaming and regular typing tasks?
Absolutely! Mechanical keyboards are versatile and can be used for both gaming and regular typing tasks. They offer several advantages, such as durability, tactile feedback, and customizable key switches, which make them suitable for various activities. Whether you're typing up a document or engaging in intense gaming sessions, a mechanical keyboard can provide a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
Are there any mechanical keyboards available in different languages or layouts?
Yes, there are mechanical keyboards available in various languages and layouts. Many keyboard manufacturers offer options with different language keycaps or key layouts to cater to specific regional or language requirements. These keyboards typically have keycaps with characters or symbols specific to a particular language, and some may also have different key arrangements or sizes based on regional preferences. It's worth noting that these keyboards are often more commonly found in markets where non-QWERTY layouts are prevalent, such as Europe (with AZERTY or QWERTZ layouts) or parts of Asia (with JIS or different regional layouts).
How much force is required to actuate the different types of mechanical switches?
The amount of force required to actuate different types of mechanical switches can vary significantly. Here are some approximate force ranges for commonly used mechanical switches:
- Tactile Switch: Tactile switches are commonly found in keyboards and have a noticeable tactile feedback when pressed. The actuation force for these switches typically ranges from 40 to 80 grams of force (gf).
- Linear Switch: Linear switches, also found in keyboards, do not have a tactile feedback and provide a smooth and consistent feel. The actuation force for linear switches can vary between 35 to 75 gf.
- Clicky Switch: Clicky switches are similar to tactile switches but produce an audible "click" sound upon actuation. The actuation force for clicky switches usually falls within the range of 50 to 80 gf.
- Heavy Switch: Some mechanical switches are designed to require higher actuation force, often preferred by users who prefer a stiffer and more substantial feel. Heavy switches can require actuation forces greater than 80 gf.
It is important to note that these force ranges are approximate and can vary between different manufacturers and specific models of switches. Additionally, there are various other types of mechanical switches available with their own force requirements, so this is not an exhaustive list.
Can I adjust the height or angle of a mechanical keyboard for improved ergonomics?
Yes, it is possible to adjust the height or angle of a mechanical keyboard for improved ergonomics. Many mechanical keyboards come with adjustable feet on the bottom that allow you to change the height at which the keyboard sits on your desk. By adjusting the keyboard's height, you can find a more comfortable and natural position for your wrists and hands.
Additionally, some keyboards have a detachable wrist rest that can be used to provide support and reduce strain. The wrist rest can often be adjusted or removed to suit your preferences.
If the keyboard does not have built-in height adjustment options, you can consider using keyboard risers or desk accessories like wrist rests, keyboard trays, or ergonomic keyboard stands. These accessories can help you achieve a more ergonomic typing position by angling the keyboard or providing additional support for your wrists.
It's important to experiment with different adjustments and positions to find what works best for your individual comfort and ergonomic needs.