How to Choose the Best Wireless Hot-Swap Mechanical Keyboard for You

Swapping out your old wireless keyboard with a new one can be tempting, but the new one might not be what you want in the long run. It’s important to look at all the factors of your new keyboard before you make your purchase so that you can avoid buyer’s remorse and make sure that it will fit into your office space or home. Check out these hot-swap mechanical keyboard buying guides before you buy, so you don’t end up wasting money on something that will frustrate you in the long run.

Don’t Get Caught Up in Brand Names

When you’re looking at different wireless hot-swap mechanical keyboards, some of them will use brand names that you recognize. Just because a company has been around a long time doesn’t mean they still make great keyboards. In fact, we’ve reviewed many new brands that are providing customers with excellent service and quality products. Don’t let your loyalty keep you from considering an up-and-coming brand—take some time to read up on what they have to offer. Chances are you won’t be disappointed with your purchase.

Consider Buying Used

If you’re looking to spend around $100 and want a keyboard that offers great bang for your buck, try shopping online forums like /r/MechanicalKeyboards. In these communities, users trade and sell their favorite keyboards, letting you score awesome mechanical models from companies like Ducky (look at its line of Shine keyboards) or Rosewill at a discount. These forums are also full of buyers and sellers offering advice on what to look out for when buying a new keyboard. Check out The Beginner’s Guide To Buying A Mechanical Keyboard on GeekHack or read up on it in our complete guide: The Best Gaming Keyboards For Every Type Of Player.

Consider Where You Will Use It

When deciding on a wireless hot-swap mechanical keyboard, you'll want to consider where you're going to use it. If you need something that's ideal for gaming and will be used primarily at home, a larger, more expensive keyboard is fine. On-the-go workers may prefer something a little more compact—portability is important. Take your needs into account before making a decision; it could make all of the difference in how happy you are with your final choice.

What Type of Key Switch Is Right For You?

When you’re shopping for a mechanical keyboard, there are a few different flavors of key switches. Each type has its own feel and typing experience. Here’s a rundown of all four options: Cherry MX switches are by far the most popular type of mechanical switch. They come in several different flavors, but they’re all designed to deliver excellent tactile feedback (good if you like loud keyboards) while maintaining high durability standards and having strong resistance against dirt and debris getting into their innards.

Are Full Size, Tenkeyless, or Compact Boards Right For You?

The first thing you need to do when wireless hot swap mechanical keyboard a new mechanical keyboard is determined your preferred form factor. The most common are full-size boards (i.e., tenkeyless or TKLs, which lack a number pad), tenkeyless keyboards, and compact keyboards (which aren't always wireless but often are). If you want an awesome mechanical keyboard that's going to improve your gaming and productivity, it really depends on what you plan on using it for. For example, if you prefer typing more than gaming, and your current daily driver has a number pad on it, buying a tenkeyless board might be ideal since that means one less cable getting in your way.

Do You Need a Numpad?

Wrist rests aren’t just a design aesthetic. They are actually useful to keep you comfortable while typing and reduce strain on your wrists and hands. There is not a solid consensus on whether they are actually helpful, but most people still find them comfortable enough that they don’t mind having one there when it comes to their keyboard purchase. If you’re thinking about going that route, make sure you take into account how long of an average workday you spend at your computer so that you can get a model that is sized appropriately for your needs—some models extend further out than others in order to support longer typing sessions.

Is Wrist Rest Necessary?

Wrist rests are a controversial feature. Some people swear by them, saying they help prevent wrist pain and/or make typing more comfortable. Other people think they're useless and can even be counterproductive, as removing your wrists from their normal neutral position may lead to inflammation or other injuries. So, should you get a wireless hot-swap mechanical keyboard with a wrist rest? It depends on your personal preference, but we recommend trying one out in person before making up your mind—some features feel better than others. In any case, paying attention to proper posture is just as important if you're using or not using a rest. And remember: If something hurts, don't do it!