Mechanical Keyboard Recommendations

hero000 on 25/02/2022 - 13:42
Last edited 05/03/2022 - 21:17

Hi guys,

You can say I'm new to Mechanical Keyboards. I've been using Keychrone K3 with blue switches for the last couple of years. It's an excellent compact small wireless keyboard. But I don't like the clicky sound of this keyboard anymore.

I've been keeping a good eye on the Keychron Q1, and I'm unsure if it's good. I know it requires some good tuning. What kind of switches do you recommend if I go with the Q1? I'm not a fan of blue switches anymore.

If there are other good ones in the market. I'd appreciate your recommendations.

My budget is around $300.

Cheers

It's finally ready. What do you think?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfi14xR_UyY

Computing

Comments

  • DiscountForThee on 25/02/2022 - 13:53

    For the clicky feel but less clicky sound, I'd recommend Browns with o-rings. Still very satisfying, but far less emphasis on the sound it creates.

  • bmxr on 25/02/2022 - 13:54

    Not a wide range of experience, but for a compact option have a look at the Ducky One 2 Mini with Cherry MX Brown switches, it has been great for my needs.

  • CrispyChrispy on 25/02/2022 - 14:28

    Do you want linear or tactile switches? Linears are generally quieter, does depend on your typing style though.

    Switch preference is up to you, there is no 'best switch' (though there are good and bad switches, subjective of course). Bad switches can sound decent after lubing, filming, etc.

  • frondono on 25/02/2022 - 14:36

    I have a tecware phantom with brown switches. I'd probably look at getting reds next time. it's a little too loud at quiet times.

    • YeemaiI on 25/02/2022 - 14:48
      +2

      Browns and reds are actually pretty similar in volume, the cheaper keyboards will both suffer from spring-ping

    • Uncleroger468 on 25/02/2022 - 15:51

      Exactly what I felt. Brown is too loud. I switched to Logitech linear G613. While it has been a great experience, looking to upgrade to something more compact and better quality.

  • 7ekn00 on 25/02/2022 - 14:38

    Love the low profile Logitech versions, linear, tactile and clicky options …
    Wireless TKL: https://www.logitechg.com/en-au/products/gaming-keyboards/g9…
    Wireless: https://www.logitechg.com/en-au/products/gaming-keyboards/g9…
    Cabled: https://www.logitechg.com/en-au/products/gaming-keyboards/g8…

    • HolyFosh on 25/02/2022 - 14:58

      I'd suggest trying those out first. I got the g815 and ended up not liking the super thick cable or the low travel distance of the keys.

    • tallkid123 on 25/02/2022 - 16:09

      I've got the g915. It's perfect but just disable the macro buttons on the far left because they get in the way of typing sometimes.

  • YeemaiI on 25/02/2022 - 14:49
    +2

    For $300 you can build a pretty good budget-ish custom mech.

    Here's a really good Reddit guide you should check out

    • hero000 on 25/02/2022 - 23:37

      Very helpful. Thank you!

  • Typical16-bitEnjoyer on 25/02/2022 - 15:07
    +2

    Ducky are great. I'd recommend red switches as a great allrounder.

  • Noire on 25/02/2022 - 15:48
    +1

    There the ikki68 aurora on dailyclack for $199, though you have to supply your own switches and keycaps. Switches I would recommend you check out would be the lavenders, 3FFF, and tangerines for starters.

    Also, do check out KBD67 lite keyboards cause I'm not sure if you are into thock keyboards.

  • ShortyX on 25/02/2022 - 15:50

    FWIW, I'm not a PC gamer and only wanted a mechanical keyboard for WFH use. I've only owned one mechanical keyboard (Kogan brown switch) and it has worked well for the past 2 years.

  • hero000 on 25/02/2022 - 23:36
    +1

    It's incredible how so many options are available to choose from while looking for Mechanical Keyboards. But, I've decided I'm going to make my custom keyboard. So, I've purchased the barebone Q1 and Gaetron Brown tactile switches, and obviously, some lube and Keychrone caps.
    I'll see how I go. I'll keep this post updated.

    Thank you all for your help.

    • YeemaiI on 26/02/2022 - 12:13

      Haha you'll learn soon enough that Browns are pretty much hated in this hobby, they've become the butt of many jokes and for good reason.

      Can I ask what lube you chose? If it's 205g0 or 3204 you might find yourself inadvertently creating some Red switches.

  • hero000 on 27/02/2022 - 09:36

    Why hating the brown ones? though. I tbught they sound really good.
    Which ones to go for then? I'm pretty sure I'll try black ones too. I'll see.
    I got this one Glorious G-Lube Mechanical Switch Lubricant from pccasegear.

    I've just came to know its missing a brush. I need to buy a brush too. G it wasn't a cheap choice.

  • hero000 on 05/03/2022 - 21:02
    +1

    The keyboard is ready and I'm loving it.
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfi14xR_UyY

  • casp82 on 08/03/2022 - 16:51

    looks pretty good but sounds a little hollow. Did you use any foam inside the board? I recently modded a Keychrom K8 with Akko CS Matcha Green linear switches and a foam mod inside. Sounds and feels much better than before with the Gaterons and no foam.

    • hero000 on 09/03/2022 - 15:32

      I haven't added additional foam yet because I haven't found that thin foam that fits. You are right. It sounds a bit hollow because still there is plenty of space inside. I saw a video. The guy had added some tapes behind the PCB. I might try that too and also search for foam.

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