How to Choose the Best Hot-Swap Mechanical Keyboard

There are plenty of factors to consider when buying a hot-swap mechanical keyboard. If you have never done this before, it can be difficult to know what you should be looking for, and even more difficult to know what to avoid. To make sure you find the best hot-swap mechanical keyboard that fits your needs, keep these tips in mind when shopping around.

Which type is for you?

Mechanical keyboards are often divided into three main categories: clicky/linear, membrane, and buckling spring. If you like a clicky feel in your keys—one of those clacks sounds on every keystroke—you're going to want a linear mechanical keyboard. If you're not big on that kind of sound, you'll probably prefer something with a quieter clicking action. Membrane switches are a bit more budget-friendly than linear or buckling springs and provide more of a mushy feel when you press down on them. Buckling springs, which have been around since IBM Model M keyboards in 1984 and cost considerably more than membrane switches or any other type of mechanical switch, provide an unparalleled typing experience but can be loud for some users.

What do you need?

Before you can choose, you need to know what you want. Do you prefer full-size or tenkeyless models? How many programmable macro keys do you want? Are backlit keys a must-have? Will your keyboard be living at home on your desk or taking up space in a cramped server room? These are all questions that need answers before shopping. With so many products available, we won’t tell you how best to spend your money—you’ll have plenty of time for that later—but we can help point out what questions should be answered first.

Why do you need it?

The first thing you should consider when looking for a hot-swap mechanical keyboard is why you need it. Is it for work or play? Do you use your computer all day and on weekends, too? Once you determine what’s most important, it’ll be easier to narrow down your options. If money is no object, there are some very expensive keyboards available that look amazing and offer awesome perks. But if you want something more affordable—and something that works just as well in terms of providing ergonomic support—then read on to see what we recommend.

What will it cost?

Mechanical keyboards can be expensive; they’re made out of high-quality materials and they have switches that are built to last. Although you can find affordable mechanical keyboards, it’s important to set aside money for a good keyboard—this is one purchase that will last you years. If you’re working with a small budget, look for deals and consider buying used keyboards from classified ads sites like Craigslist. Also, keep in mind that different features come at different price points. If you want an RGB backlit keyboard, for example, be prepared to pay more than if you wanted one without lights.

How do you get the best deal?

There are two ways of buying a mechanical keyboard; you can buy it as part of a bundle or by itself. Buying a bundle will save you some money and includes extra items. This is ideal for gamers who play online and want an advantage against their opponents. Some bundles include macro keys and on-the-fly controls which allow you to change your settings quickly during gameplay. If you aren’t interested in these features, then it isn’t necessary to buy them together with your mechanical keyboard. This could end up saving you money because most gaming brands sell both separately.

What are the pros and cons of every switch type?

If you’re a gamer, choosing your keyboard can be a matter of life and death—or at least game win and loss. That’s why it’s important to understand what mechanical keyboard switches are, how they work, and what impact they have on gaming. In short, each type of switch provides a unique tactile feel (that clicky feeling when you press down on a key) as well as different levels of resistance that directly impact gameplay.

Do I need a backlit keyboard or not?

The look of your keyboard is cheap hot swap mechanical keyboard . Your keyboard is often your daily companion, so you want it to be something that’s not only functional but also pleasing to look at. If a backlit keyboard isn’t very important for you, then choosing a mechanical-switch keyboard without one won’t matter too much; but if you think backlighting will benefit you, it might be best to steer clear of these keyboards. In general, non-backlit mechanical keyboards are less expensive than those with backlighting, making them an affordable choice for most.