Beginner's Guide to Mechanical Keyboards
New to mechanical keyboards? Learn the basics: what makes them different, switch types explained simply, and how to choose your first board. No jargon, just the essentials.
So... What's the Deal With Mechanical Keyboards?
Mechanical keyboards use individual switches under each key. Unlike the rubber domes in cheap keyboards, each mechanical switch is a self-contained unit with its own spring and mechanism. The result? Better feel, longer life, and endless customization.
Why Go Mechanical?
- Better feel: Tactile feedback makes typing more satisfying
- Durability: Last 10+ years with proper care
- Customization: Change switches, keycaps, even the case
- Typing speed: Many users type faster with better feedback
- Repairability: Individual switches can be replaced if they fail
Understanding Switch Types
Switches are the heart of a mechanical keyboard. Here's the simple version:
Linear
Smooth from top to bottom. No bump, no click. Just pure glide.
- Best for: Gaming, fast typing
- Popular: Cherry MX Red, Gateron Yellow
- Sound: Quiet
Tactile
A noticeable bump when the key registers. Feedback you can feel.
- Best for: General use, writing
- Popular: Cherry MX Brown, Holy Panda
- Sound: Moderate
Clicky
Bump AND an audible click. Satisfying feedback, but louder.
- Best for: Typing enthusiasts
- Popular: Cherry MX Blue, Kailh Box White
- Sound: Loud
Choose Your Size
Full Size (100%)
~104 keys. Everything including numpad.
Best for: Data entry, number crunching
TKL (Tenkeyless)
~87 keys. No numpad, keeps function row.
Best for: Gaming, limited desk space
75%
~82 keys. Compact but keeps arrows and function keys.
Best for: Balance of size and function
65%
~68 keys. No function row, keeps arrows.
Best for: Portability, minimalism
60%
~61 keys. Minimal. No arrows, no function row.
Best for: Portable setups, customization
Keycap Materials: ABS vs. PBT
Once you've picked a keyboard, you'll notice keycaps come in different materials. This matters more than you think:
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
- Smooth, slightly soft feel
- Develops shine over time (1-2 years)
- Richer, more vibrant colors
- Typically cheaper
- Thinner walls (higher pitch sound)
PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate)
- Textured, grippy surface
- Resists shine almost forever
- More muted color palette
- Usually more expensive
- Thicker walls (deeper, thockier sound)
Which is better? PBT lasts longer and feels premium, but ABS isn't low quality—GMK makes some of the most expensive keycaps in the world from ABS. For your first board, PBT is the safer choice. It won't shine, and the texture hides wear.
Keycap profiles matter too: Cherry profile is standard (sculpted, comfortable). XDA/DSA are flat and uniform. OEM is tall and angled. Most beginners prefer Cherry or OEM.
RGB: Nice to Have or Essential?
RGB lighting is everywhere in marketing, but do you actually need it? Let's separate hype from reality:
Why RGB Exists
Keyboard manufacturers learned that RGB sells. It's not about gaming performance — it's an aesthetic choice. A $60 keyboard with RGB outsells an $80 without it. That's the entire business case.
When You Might Actually Want It
- Gaming in the dark: You need backlighting, not rainbow RGB
- Macro layers: Color-coding active layer is genuinely useful
- Aesthetics: You like the look (valid reason)
- Video calls: Cool white backlighting looks professional on camera
What to Avoid
"Gamer" keyboards with non-addressable RGB (entire keyboard one color at a time) are usually cheap marketing tricks. Either get per-key RGB or skip it entirely. Non-addressable RGB looks dated fast and adds zero functional value.
Bottom line: Skip RGB and spend $20 more on better switches or build quality. Your typing experience matters more than glowing colors.
Common First-Timer Mistakes
❌ Buying for switches you've never tried
You read that Cherry MX Blues are "terrible" and Reds are "the best for gaming." But touch is personal. A tactile switch might feel crisp to you and mushy to someone else. Before committing to a full set, spend $25 on a switch tester. Test your finalists for a week.
❌ Ignoring size and desk space
That full-size Corsair looks impressive. But will it fit your desk with your mousepad? Measure first. A TKL or 75% saves 4-6 inches of horizontal space. Your shoulder will thank you.
❌ Spending too much on features you don't need
Custom cables, desk mats, artisan keycaps — these are fun but add up fast. Focus on the core experience first. Get a solid keyboard with good switches. Accessorize later when you know what you actually enjoy.
Where to Buy
Your first mechanical keyboard can come from several sources, each with trade-offs:
For your first board, stick with Amazon or direct from Keychron. You get return rights if switches don't feel right. Once you know what you like, then branch out to enthusiast vendors.
Ready for Your First Keyboard?
Start with something reliable from a reputable brand. Browse our database for keyboards with hot-swap switches (so you can change them later) and quality builds under $100.