Are you tired of typing on a regular keyboard that just doesn’t give you the satisfying click and tactile feedback you crave? Look no further, because we have the ultimate guide to enhancing your typing experience with the 9 best mechanical keyboards for starters.
Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast or a professional writer, these keyboards will take your typing to the next level. From the sleek and compact MageGee 75% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard to the retro-inspired 8Bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard, there’s something for everyone.
But how do you choose the right one for you? Well, that’s where we come in. In this guide, we’ll not only introduce you to the top mechanical keyboards on the market, but we’ll also highlight the key factors to consider when making your decision.
So, get ready to elevate your typing game and discover the keyboard that’s perfect for you.
Table of contents
Key Takeaways
- Key switch options determine the typing experience and should be chosen based on personal preference and intended use.
- Consider the customization options available for backlighting when selecting a mechanical keyboard.
- Compact keyboards are portable and space-saving, while full-size keyboards offer more functionality.
- Verify compatibility with your specific operating system and check the build quality for durability.
MageGee 75% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (Black/Grey)
If you’re new to mechanical keyboards and looking for an affordable option with customizable lighting and smooth key switches, the MageGee 75% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (Black/Grey) is a great choice for you.
This keyboard features linear and smoother mechanical red switches, which offer a clicky and creamy feel while typing.
The blue LED backlight with customizable light effects adds a touch of style to your setup.
With its full anti-ghosting keyboard, you can type and game without any input conflicts.
The ergonomic design ensures comfort during long typing sessions.
Additionally, the MageGee keyboard is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and Mac.
Overall, users express satisfaction with the keyboard’s quality and features, especially considering its affordable price.
Best For: Gamers and typists looking for an affordable mechanical keyboard with customizable lighting and smooth key switches.
Pros:
- Linear and smoother mechanical red switches offer a clicky and creamy feel while typing
- Blue LED backlight with customizable light effects adds a stylish touch
- Full anti-ghosting keyboard allows for seamless typing and gaming without input conflicts
Cons:
- Some users have experienced broken keys
8Bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard with 87 Keys (N Edition)
For those new to mechanical keyboards, the Bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard with 87 Keys (N Edition) offers a user-friendly and customizable typing experience. This keyboard features a compact design with 87 keys, making it perfect for starters who prefer a more compact layout. It’s compatible with Windows 10(1903) or above and Android 9.0 or above, ensuring compatibility with most devices.
The Kailh Box Switch V2 White provides a satisfying mechanical clicky feel, enhancing the typing experience. Additionally, the keyboard offers wireless (2.4Ghz & BT) and wired connectivity options, giving you the flexibility to choose how you connect. The programmable keys with onboard memory allow you to customize your keyboard layout to suit your needs.
Despite some mixed opinions on the legibility of the keycaps and the lack of backlighting, the Bitdo Retro Mechanical Keyboard with 87 Keys (N Edition) is overall highly recommended for its price, quality, and aesthetics.
Best For: Users who are new to mechanical keyboards and prefer a compact layout.
Pros:
- User-friendly and customizable typing experience
- Compatible with Windows 10 and Android devices
- Satisfying mechanical clicky feel and programmable keys
Cons:
- Mixed opinions on the legibility of keycaps and lack of backlighting
MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
The MageGee Portable 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard offers a compact layout and customizable LED backlighting, making it an ideal choice for beginners looking for a versatile and visually appealing keyboard.
With its mini portable 60% compact layout and classic charming blue LED backlit design, this keyboard is both compact and stylish. It features a full anti-ghosting keyboard, which ensures that all your keystrokes are registered accurately. The keyboard is compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac, and it has a USB 2.0 connector, making it easy to connect to your computer.
Additionally, the keyboard has customizable backlight modes, allowing you to personalize your typing experience. Its detachable USB cable adds convenience and portability to the keyboard, making it a great option for on-the-go use.
Best For: Beginners and casual gamers looking for a compact and visually appealing mechanical gaming keyboard.
Pros:
- Satisfying typing experience
- Impressive features for the price
- Compact size and cute color scheme
Cons:
- Dim LED backlight
Redragon K582 SURARA Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with RGB LED Backlight
Ideal for beginners, the Redragon K582 SURARA Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with RGB LED Backlight offers a smooth and quiet typing experience with its pluggable Redragon red switches. The linear and quiet switches require less force to press down, making it easier for novice typists to get used to.
With N-key rollover, you can accurately execute simultaneous key presses without any lag or missed inputs. The keyboard features 6 backlight themes and 18 backlight models, allowing you to personalize your typing experience.
Built to last, it has a durability of 50 million keystrokes. The sturdy construction and weighted base prevent slipping during intense gaming sessions. While the red switches are quiet, they do produce a clacky noise. However, this noise isn’t noticeable when listening to music or gaming.
Overall, the Redragon K582 SURARA offers a solid build quality, customizable LED lighting, and compatibility with various computer systems.
Best For: Gamers and typists looking for a durable and customizable mechanical keyboard with a smooth and quiet typing experience.
Pros:
- Pluggable Redragon red switches offer a smooth and quiet typing experience.
- N-key rollover allows for accurate simultaneous key presses.
- 6 backlight themes and 18 backlight models for personalized customization.
Cons:
- Reds switches produce a clacky noise when pressed.
TMKB 60 Percent Gaming Mechanical Keyboard (T68SE, Red Switch)
If you’re new to mechanical keyboards, the TMKB 60 Percent Gaming Mechanical Keyboard (T68SE, Red Switch) offers a compact and practical option with efficient and comfortable operation. This keyboard features a compact 68-key design with separate arrow keys and control keys, making it space-saving and convenient for gaming.
The red switch provides a linear typing experience without a tactile bump, allowing for smooth and responsive keystrokes. It also has 19 built-in backlight modes and shortcut keys to adjust brightness and speed, allowing you to customize your gaming experience.
The keyboard is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and Linux. With its sturdy construction, high-quality materials, and one-year warranty, the TMKB 60 Percent Gaming Mechanical Keyboard is a reliable choice for starters looking to enhance their typing experience.
Best For: Gamers and individuals looking for a compact and efficient mechanical keyboard with customizable LED backlighting.
Pros:
- Compact 68-key design with separate arrow keys and control keys
- Linear red switch for smooth and responsive keystrokes
- 19 built-in backlight modes and shortcut keys for customization
Cons:
- Limited color lighting options
EagleTec KG010 Mechanical Keyboard (Black Keyboard White Backlit)
For those just starting out with mechanical keyboards, the EagleTec KG010 Mechanical Keyboard (Black Keyboard White Backlit) offers a durable and customizable option. This wired ergonomic keyboard features brown switches that are equivalent for office, home, or business use. The black keyboard with white backlighting has 104 keys with dust-proof brown switches. It offers medium resistance and quiet travel, along with precise tactile feedback, making it suitable for both typing and gaming.
The keyboard also features 9 different LED backlighting and brightness modes, as well as crystal clear lettering on the keycaps. Its aircraft-grade aluminum ABS construction, plate-mounted mechanical keys and switches, and compatibility with Windows and limited Mac OS keyboard support ensure that it can stand up to tough gaming conditions.
Overall, the EagleTec KG010 Mechanical Keyboard provides a reliable and customizable typing experience for beginners.
Best For: Beginners and mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for an affordable and customizable option.
Pros:
- Durable and sturdy construction with aircraft-grade aluminum ABS
- Precise tactile feedback and medium resistance for a satisfying typing experience
- 9 different LED backlighting and brightness modes for customization
Cons:
- Keycaps made from cheap ABS material
ASUS ROG Strix Scope RX Gaming Mechanical Keyboard (Black)
One standout feature of the ASUS ROG Strix Scope RX Gaming Mechanical Keyboard (Black) is its durable aluminum alloy top plate, making it a reliable choice for beginners in the world of mechanical keyboards. The top plate not only adds to the keyboard’s overall durability but also provides a sleek and premium look.
With its IP57 waterproof and dust resistance, you can confidently use this keyboard without worrying about accidental spills or debris. The keyboard also features ROG RX Red Optical Mechanical Switches, which offer a 1.5mm actuation point for linear and swift keystrokes with immediate response. Additionally, the keyboard includes a Stealth key for instant privacy and a Quick-Toggle Switch for easy mode switching.
With vibrant per-key backlighting powered by Aura Sync, you can customize the lighting to match your style. Overall, the ASUS ROG Strix Scope RX Gaming Mechanical Keyboard (Black) offers a reliable and feature-packed option for beginners looking to enhance their typing experience.
Best For: Beginners in the world of mechanical keyboards who prioritize durability and a sleek design.
Pros:
- Durable aluminum alloy top plate adds to the keyboard’s overall durability and provides a premium look.
- IP57 waterproof and dust resistance allows for worry-free use, even in the face of accidental spills or debris.
- ROG RX Red Optical Mechanical Switches offer a 1.5mm actuation point for linear and swift keystrokes with immediate response.
Cons:
- Some users have reported visibility issues with secondary characters in low-light conditions.
RK Royal Kludge RK96 RGB Mechanical Keyboard (Limited Edition)
The RK Royal Kludge RK96 RGB Mechanical Keyboard (Limited Edition) offers an array of features that make it an excellent choice for beginners delving into the world of mechanical keyboards. With its 96% layout, this keyboard includes a number pad and offset arrow keys, providing you with a compact yet functional design. It also boasts triple mode wireless connectivity, allowing you to connect via Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz dongle, or USB-C.
The hot-swappable PCB makes it easy to replace switches, while the ergonomic magnetic wrist rest ensures comfort during long typing sessions. Additionally, the keyboard features a hub design with USB pass-through ports for added convenience. With DIY software support, you can customize your keyboard to suit your preferences.
Overall, the RK Royal Kludge RK96 RGB Mechanical Keyboard is a reliable and versatile option for beginners looking to enhance their typing experience.
Best For: Beginners looking for a compact and versatile mechanical keyboard with wireless connectivity and customizable features.
Pros:
- 96% layout with number pad and offset arrow keys
- Triple mode wireless connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz dongle, USB-C)
- Hot-swappable PCB for easy switch replacement
Cons:
- Mixed opinions on the usability of the DIY software
MageGee Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (MK-Armor)
Ideal for beginners, the MageGee Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (MK-Armor) offers a comfortable typing experience with its Red switches and customizable backlighting. The keyboard features 104 keys with anti-ghosting technology for fast typing response. Its adjustable tilt legs allow you to find the perfect ergonomic typing angle.
The keyboard also comes with multiple backlight modes, including a solid sea blue color, which can be customized to suit your preferences. With its hot-swappable design, the MK-Armor offers customization and compatibility with various operating systems.
Users have praised the comfortable typing experience and tactile feedback of the Red switches. They also appreciate the sturdy build quality and compact design. The LED backlighting and customizable lighting effects have received positive feedback as well.
The MageGee Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (MK-Armor) is available at a competitive price, making it an affordable option for beginners looking to enhance their typing experience.
Best For: Gamers and typing enthusiasts looking for an affordable mechanical keyboard with customizable backlighting and a comfortable typing experience.
Pros:
- Comfortable typing experience with tactile feedback from Red switches
- Sturdy build quality and compact design
- Customizable LED backlighting with multiple modes
Cons:
- Occasional spacebar rattle and key duplication issues
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mechanical Keyboard for Starters
When choosing a mechanical keyboard as a starter, there are several factors to consider.
Firstly, you should think about the key switch options available, as these will determine the typing experience.
Additionally, backlighting customization can enhance the aesthetics and visibility of the keys.
Furthermore, the choice between a compact or full-size keyboard will depend on your personal preference and workspace.
Lastly, make sure the keyboard is compatible with your operating system and check the build quality for durability.
Key Switch Options
To choose the right key switch option for your mechanical keyboard, consider factors such as the feel, sound, and intended use of the keyboard.
Key switch options determine the typing experience and can be categorized into linear, tactile, and clicky switches.
Linear switches provide a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback, making them quiet and ideal for gaming.
Tactile switches offer a slight bump when pressed, providing feedback to the user and making them versatile for both typing and gaming.
Clicky switches produce an audible click sound with each press, which some people prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. However, they may not be suitable for shared workspaces due to the noise.
When choosing a key switch option, consider the noise level, actuation force, and tactile feedback that aligns with your preference and intended use of the mechanical keyboard.
Backlighting Customization
Consider the customization options available for backlighting when choosing a mechanical keyboard. This allows you to personalize the color, brightness, and effects of the keyboard’s backlight to suit your preferences.
Some keyboards offer multiple backlighting modes, including solid colors, pulsating effects, or reactive lighting to key presses. You can also adjust the brightness of the backlight to create the desired ambiance for your workspace or gaming setup.
Backlighting customization can go beyond just colors and effects – it can include the ability to program specific lighting patterns or effects for different keys or key groups.
Compact or Full-Size
If you’re a beginner looking to choose a mechanical keyboard, one important factor to consider is whether you prefer a compact or full-size option.
Compact keyboards are smaller in size and have fewer keys, making them portable and perfect for saving space. They’re suitable for users with limited desk space or those who prefer a minimalist setup.
On the other hand, full-size keyboards have a standard layout with all keys, including the number pad. They provide more functionality, especially for tasks like data entry and calculations. Full-size keyboards are beneficial for users who require the convenience of dedicated function keys and a complete set of keys for various tasks.
Ultimately, the choice between compact and full-size keyboards depends on your personal preferences, space availability, and specific usage requirements.
Compatibility With OS
Before purchasing a mechanical keyboard, it’s essential to ensure compatibility with your specific operating system (OS). You want to make sure that the keyboard you choose is compatible with your OS, whether it’s Windows, Linux, or Mac.
It’s important to look for extensive compatibility with various operating systems to ensure that you can use your keyboard seamlessly no matter what system you’re using. Verify that the keyboard explicitly states compatibility with your OS to avoid any issues or frustrations down the line.
Considering the compatibility of the keyboard with different operating systems will help ensure that you can make the most of your typing experience without any compatibility hiccups.
Build Quality and Durability
When choosing a mechanical keyboard for starters, one important factor to consider is the build quality and durability, which ensures the keyboard can withstand heavy usage over time. Look for keyboards with sturdy construction and durable materials to ensure long-lasting performance.
Pay attention to the quality of key switches and keycaps, as these components greatly impact the overall durability of the keyboard. It’s also worth considering keyboards with features like spill resistance and dust-proof design for added durability.
To gauge the keyboard’s durability, check for user feedback on its build quality and long-term performance. Investing in a mechanical keyboard with excellent build quality and durability will ensure a reliable and lasting typing experience.
Price Range Options
Consider the available price range options when choosing a mechanical keyboard for starters. It’s important to find a keyboard that fits your budget while still offering the features you need. Evaluate the value of the keyboard in relation to its price to ensure you’re getting a good deal. Take the time to compare prices of different mechanical keyboards to find the one that strikes the best balance between features and affordability.
Look for entry-level keyboards that provide good value for their price. Additionally, consider the price competitiveness and availability of price matching options when making your purchase. By considering the price range options, you can find a mechanical keyboard that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
Ergonomic Design Features
To ensure optimal comfort and usability, beginners should prioritize the ergonomic design features of a mechanical keyboard. Look for keyboards with adjustable tilt legs that allow you to find the perfect typing angle for your wrists. Foldable brackets are also beneficial, as they offer adjustable height options to further customize your typing experience.
Consider keyboards with non-slip and spill-proof designs, as well as compatibility with different operating systems, to cater to your ergonomic needs. It’s important to choose a keyboard that incorporates full anti-ghosting technology and key conflict prevention, ensuring smooth and accurate typing experiences. Additionally, sturdy build quality and compact layouts can enhance your comfort and convenience during prolonged use.
Lastly, keyboards with customizable LED backlighting and various lighting effects can reduce eye strain and improve visibility, adding ergonomic benefits to your typing experience.
What Features Should I Look for in a Mechanical Keyboard to Enhance My Typing Experience?
When searching for the best mechanical keyboards for enthusiasts, look for switches that provide a satisfying tactile response and comfortable key travel. Backlit keys, customizable macros, and a durable construction are also essential features to enhance your typing experience. Additionally, consider the layout and size that best fits your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to enhancing your typing experience, investing in a mechanical keyboard is a great choice for starters.
The 9 options mentioned in this article offer a range of features and styles to suit different preferences. Whether you’re looking for a compact 60% keyboard or a full-sized gaming keyboard with RGB lighting, there’s something for everyone.
Consider factors such as key switches, build quality, and additional features to find the perfect mechanical keyboard for your needs.
Happy typing!
