F5F Stay Refreshed Hardware Desktop What are the best recommendations for a new keyboard to purchase?

What are the best recommendations for a new keyboard to purchase?

What are the best recommendations for a new keyboard to purchase?

C
chaoscrafter1
Member
120
03-24-2025, 09:09 AM
#1
Hi everyone!
Lately my old keyboard has stopped functioning and I’m thinking about purchasing a new one.
I haven’t been using mechanical keyboards for a while, so I need some advice.
Here are the details of what I’m looking for:
Mechanical
Wired
Full-size
/
TKL
/
at least 75% efficiency
No extra features like media controls or macro keys
Budget up to $200 (can adjust if it’s worth it)
I don’t have a preference for switch type, backlighting, or brand
Focus is on durability and long-term use
For my needs, I mainly type general tasks such as browsing the web and everyday writing (e.g., forums, document editing).
I don’t play competitive games anymore, but I do play some casual games occasionally, so anything aimed at gaming or labeled as a “gaming keyboard” isn’t important to me.
Are there any keyboards that match these requirements?
C
chaoscrafter1
03-24-2025, 09:09 AM #1

Hi everyone!
Lately my old keyboard has stopped functioning and I’m thinking about purchasing a new one.
I haven’t been using mechanical keyboards for a while, so I need some advice.
Here are the details of what I’m looking for:
Mechanical
Wired
Full-size
/
TKL
/
at least 75% efficiency
No extra features like media controls or macro keys
Budget up to $200 (can adjust if it’s worth it)
I don’t have a preference for switch type, backlighting, or brand
Focus is on durability and long-term use
For my needs, I mainly type general tasks such as browsing the web and everyday writing (e.g., forums, document editing).
I don’t play competitive games anymore, but I do play some casual games occasionally, so anything aimed at gaming or labeled as a “gaming keyboard” isn’t important to me.
Are there any keyboards that match these requirements?

P
petiteaxelle
Member
57
03-29-2025, 02:30 PM
#2
The Keychron Q series features a complete metal build. They offer both standard layouts and designs with a knob.
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petiteaxelle
03-29-2025, 02:30 PM #2

The Keychron Q series features a complete metal build. They offer both standard layouts and designs with a knob.

P
PisulasRule
Senior Member
676
04-01-2025, 02:56 PM
#3
You might think about a keyboard with interchangeable key switches. This way, if a replacement isn't working properly or you don't prefer a certain switch type, you can swap all of them for a more affordable option. Many keyboard manufacturers offer switches that follow a very consistent design, allowing compatibility across various brands.

The current trend in keyboards is around hall effect keys. These are highly customizable, offering more than just on/off functionality. They can mimic the behavior of game controller switches. While I appreciate the solid click sound of mechanical keyboards, I don’t typically play shooter games.
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PisulasRule
04-01-2025, 02:56 PM #3

You might think about a keyboard with interchangeable key switches. This way, if a replacement isn't working properly or you don't prefer a certain switch type, you can swap all of them for a more affordable option. Many keyboard manufacturers offer switches that follow a very consistent design, allowing compatibility across various brands.

The current trend in keyboards is around hall effect keys. These are highly customizable, offering more than just on/off functionality. They can mimic the behavior of game controller switches. While I appreciate the solid click sound of mechanical keyboards, I don’t typically play shooter games.

S
Sushi292
Member
179
04-04-2025, 11:02 AM
#4
I would suggest being cautious since not every item is purely analogue, just adaptable. My model is definitely inexpensive at £30, but it includes replaceable Hall effect switches which are good, though only the actuation depth can be adjusted. Still, for £30 it was a worthwhile choice as it’s a solid keyboard.
S
Sushi292
04-04-2025, 11:02 AM #4

I would suggest being cautious since not every item is purely analogue, just adaptable. My model is definitely inexpensive at £30, but it includes replaceable Hall effect switches which are good, though only the actuation depth can be adjusted. Still, for £30 it was a worthwhile choice as it’s a solid keyboard.

B
BrianChew
Member
57
04-04-2025, 11:58 AM
#5
I used an MK770 from coolermaster. It can be wired or wireless depending on your preference. I prefer to keep it wired because I don’t move it around the room. lol
MK770 Hybrid Wireless Gaming Keyboard
The Cooler Master MK770 Hybrid Wireless Keyboard is a top choice for gamers. Built with players in mind, it features a compact design with all the keys you use most often. The latest hybrid wireless version includes a new chip for quicker connections, and...
www.coolermaster.com
I was expecting a full-size model but have been impressed so far. I’m not a keyboard expert, but the ones I’ve tried before didn’t impress me much. This one feels great right out of the box. It gets my vote for everyday use and gaming.
I don’t recall the switch layout, but I think they are white switches in some way. They’re not too loud and provide just enough resistance to give a slight feedback. But I don’t remember the exact names.
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BrianChew
04-04-2025, 11:58 AM #5

I used an MK770 from coolermaster. It can be wired or wireless depending on your preference. I prefer to keep it wired because I don’t move it around the room. lol
MK770 Hybrid Wireless Gaming Keyboard
The Cooler Master MK770 Hybrid Wireless Keyboard is a top choice for gamers. Built with players in mind, it features a compact design with all the keys you use most often. The latest hybrid wireless version includes a new chip for quicker connections, and...
www.coolermaster.com
I was expecting a full-size model but have been impressed so far. I’m not a keyboard expert, but the ones I’ve tried before didn’t impress me much. This one feels great right out of the box. It gets my vote for everyday use and gaming.
I don’t recall the switch layout, but I think they are white switches in some way. They’re not too loud and provide just enough resistance to give a slight feedback. But I don’t remember the exact names.

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____aufmBrot
Member
57
04-04-2025, 12:46 PM
#6
I'll look at these two. Thanks for the ideas!
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____aufmBrot
04-04-2025, 12:46 PM #6

I'll look at these two. Thanks for the ideas!