What is the appeal of mechanical keyboards?

So you may be wondering what is the appeal: these keyboards are built to last, with switches meant for millions of key presses, and often time have a faster response and better accuracy for gaming and typing.

The laptop membrane keyboard did it's job, there was really nothing to complain. While I could accept the membrane keyboard which is on the laptop, I stumbled into the world of mechanical keyboards and have never looked back since.

[Mechanical Keyboard Switches Explained: Your Complete Guide to Types and Characteristic]

I enjoy discovering the different types of switches (i.e. tactile and linear, I don't really like clicky) along with their different sound profile and typing experience they offer. The various designs of keycap sets and artisan keycaps also opened a whole new world for me. The best part of mechanical keyboards is that they are customizable from the switches to the keycaps all the way down to the internal parts to make it feel and sound a certain way.

If you think mechanical keyboards are too noisy, with the exception of click switches, there are silent switches or linear switches are no more louder than your colleague typing very furiously on their membrane laptop keyboard. Just saying... 😂

Typically, a budget mechanical keyboard can range from as low as S$40 to as much as $200 or more. The keyboards I am about to introduce to you today also range within that price range. So far, I have not yet gotten one which is above S$300, but it is not impossible one day (I'd really have to love that keyboard a lot to get it).

For a newbie looking for a budget-friendly mechanical keyboard, there are several options available that provide a good balance of quality and affordability. If the idea of opening a board up to mod it with tape etc, or a switch to lub it is a little too advance for you, and all you are looking for is to either use the keyboard out of the box—with maybe the occasional keycap or switch swap— then this list might be useful for you. It is based on my own experiences and what I have gotten so far in terms of mechanical keyboards.

Sumreda SK82:

This mechanical keyboard is the most basic of them all which cute details like a paw or ghost detail, and has a knob.

[Review: SK82 Mechanical Keyboard - A Blend of Functionality and Style on a Budget]

The SK82 mechanical keyboard is usually priced between US$45-60 on AliExpress, with variations depending on the model and features, such as wired or wireless options. This pricing positions it in the lower mid-range for mechanical keyboards, reflecting its balance of build quality, features, and versatility.

Features:

Lightweight and tri-mode (Bluetooth, 2.4ghz and Wired).
Has a knob and cute details.
Hotswappable - switches and keycap can be swapped. But do note hat you can only use 3 pin switches.
Tenkeyless (not have a 10-key numeric keypad on the right side).
RGB light effects.

CIDOO ABM066 Alice Layout:

If you want to take up the challenge of starting to build you own mechanical keyboard, the CIDOO ABM066 might be a good choice to start. Or if you prefer they also have aready made one for you with switches and keycaps. It is available on Amazon from US$70+.

[First Look: CIDOO ABM066 Barebones Kit Alice-layout Review]

Features:

Lightweight and tri-mode (Bluetooth, 2.4ghz and Wired).
Has a knob and alice layout.
Hotswappable - switches and keycap can be swapped.
Tenkeyless (not have a 10-key numeric keypad on the right side).
RGB light effects/
Customizable screen. [Cidoo ABM066: Setting up the display screen]

Royal Kludge RK71:

The Royal Kludge RK71 is a compact powerhouse, offering a tenkeyless design without compromising on features. It comes with71 keys, along with multi-device Bluetooth connectivity and Wired mode, and RGB lighting options.

[Royal Kludge RK71 Mechanical Keyboard Review: Compact Elegance with Versatile Performance ]

Features:

Lightweight and tri-mode (Bluetooth, 2.4ghz and Wired).
Compact size and portable.
Hotswappable - switches and keycap can be swapped.
Tenkeyless (not have a 10-key numeric keypad on the right side).
RGB light effects.

MACHENIKE K500W:

The quality of the keycaps and switches are comparable with the ones which came with the RK71

The MACHENIKE K500W Mechanical Keyboard is a good option for gamers and typists alike who are looking for something affordable and user friendly. Its sleek design, reliable switches, customizable RGB lighting, and hot swappability (for both switches and keycaps) make it a standout choice in the crowded mechanical keyboard market.

[Unleashing the Power of Precision Typing: MACHENIKE K500W Mechanical Keyboard Review]

Features:

Lightweight and more compact than a full keyboard.
Has a tri-mode and wired version.
Hotswappable - switches and keycap can be swapped.
Has numpad.
RGB light effects.

As always, availability and pricing may vary, so it's a good idea to check current reviews and prices from reliable sources before making a purchase.

When choosing a mechanical keyboard, consider the type of switches you prefer (linear, tactile, or clicky), whether you want backlighting, and any specific layout preferences (full-sized, tenkeyless, 60%, etc.). Additionally, read user reviews to get an idea of the typing experience and build quality.

Remember that personal preference plays a significant role in choosing a mechanical keyboard, so if possible, try to test different switch types before making a final decision. The keyboards listed above should provide a good starting point for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard scene.