How to choose your first keyboard - SEND HELP!

How to choose your first keyboard - SEND HELP!

The help has arrived!
You've seen all of the posts online or maybe even visited a local store (if you're lucky enough to have one) to check out what the hype is about with these keyboards.  Now, you're thinking you may be ready to invest (lets be real, most of these keyboards truly are an investment) and you want to make sure you get it right the first time.
I completely get it.  So, I've jotted down some things to consider that may be helpful for you to take the leap into the Mech World! 
If you are unfamiliar with the terms I am about to share, I have created small terms reference in my other post Mechanical Keyboard Common Terms (Glossary) – MiloMech, LLC.  
We will start with the switches.  Switches are found underneath the keycaps (letters) and they are a big contributor to the feel and sound (if you want sound) of a keyboard.
 
You want to choose based on typing feel - some like to feel a smooth transition with no feedback and some want some feedback.
Options include:
Linear: These switches provide a smooth transition.  Some linear switches provide a "creamy" sound - but that is just one part of the equation, although very helpful.  Linear switches can have sound or be silent.
Next - Tactile: Feedback for these switches is bumpy in the middle.  You can feel the transition when the key is pressed.  Tactile switches can have sound or be silent.
Then there is the Clicky switch.  This one has audible clicks for satisfying feedback - if you're into something that sounds like a typewriter (so to say).
Size and Layout:
This is where things can get more complicated - most people are convinced they need a number pad.  IMO - some people do need a number pad, but I have yet to miss having the number pad on my keyboard (but that's just me).  Either way, you want to pick a size that suits your needs.
    • Full-size (with numpad),
    • Tenkeyless (TKL), these keyboards have everything except the number pad (F keys, arrow keys, etc.) 
    • Compact 60%, 40% etc.

WindStudio has a 50% keyboard, it's called the Hola. The Hola does not have the F keys, or the numbers above the letters but does come with a number pad.  It's really cool - you should check it out.

Build Quality: Look for sturdy materials like aluminum or high-quality plastic - but this would depend on your budget.  I wouldn't stress it too much for your first keyboard. 

Story time: the very first keyboard I bought is a aluminum keyboard, cost me over $200 - the second one I bought was plastic from Ajazz, cost me about $70 and it was the one I loved the most (pictured).

Remember, these are customizable keyboards and if you like building, making, creating, you can take a budget keyboard and make it very cool sounding and looking great.

Customization Options: Consider hot-swappable switches, programmable macros, and customizable RGB lighting.  I recommend this for the first keyboard.  A keyboard that is "soldered" will not give you the flexibility to change your switches.

Purpose: Prioritize gaming, productivity, or aesthetics based on use.  This does not mean you cannot have a multifunction keyboard, but if you're a gamer it may be easier to have a 40% keyboard vs. a TKL or 100% because you won't need all of those keys (or weight).

Budget: Quality varies significantly by price. Set a realistic budget for durability and features - this should have probably been first.  There are plenty of sites, including MiloMech, that has what is considered budget keyboards.  I love this category of keyboards, because as mentioned, you can build them up to more if you're into that OR you can just make simple modifications - such as change the switches and keycaps and create a whole new look! 

Keep in mind, mechanical keyboards are customizable, and you don't have to "marry" the color scheme the keyboard came with.  If you choose a keyboard that is hot-swap, then the keycaps and the switches can be changed as often as you like.  

And then, there is always keyboard #2 :) 

 

Tip, Tap, Thrive, my friends. 

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