The Keychron K1 is an ultra-slim, tenkeyless mechanical keyboard. About half the height of a regular board, it features low-profile switches and shorter low-profile keycaps. Besides this, it offers cross-platform compatibility as well as both wired/ wireless modes. It goes without saying that if you demand the look and feel only mechanical switches can provide, rather than those that are slim and stealthy, we suggest perusing our best gaming keyboards round-up instead. Among the best transparent mechanical keyboards on the market, the KiiBOOM Phantom 81 boasts pre-lubed Crystal switches that allows it to literally sparkle, especially when you turn that vibrant RGB lighting on. So, if you're an RGB fan but would like to use a non-gaming keyboard for work, this is going to make you giddy.

Aluminum cases hold up against time and use, and they naturally react with air to create an anti-rust layer. The metal works well to dissipate heat faster than other metals, protecting internal components from heat damage. A Mechanical Keyboard is the perfect product for computer enthusiasts looking to take their efficiency, comfort and enjoyment of their system to the next level. As your primary interface with your computer, a quality keyboard will change the way you interact with a computer.We can't help but be impressed her. Thanks to its Holy Panda X Switches and Phantom Stabilizers, the tactile experience is delivers is unparalleled and the sound each key is something that mechanical keyboard enthusiasts will find orgasmic – without being too loud and obnoxious. Mechanical keyboard fans will love this officially-licensed The Lord of the Rings offering from Drop whose impressively solid and premium build is only surpassed by its comfortable and satisfying typing feel. This keeb may be outside of our usual offerings, but it's part of our effort to branch out and include worthy brands that have nurtured a cult status among true mechanical keyboard fans with discerning tastes.

The Epomaker AK84S is a feature-rich, 75% mechanical keyboard with a compact 84-key layout. Optimized for ultimate functionality, it features Windows and Mac compatibility, dual-connectivity, and is fully hot-swappable with either optical or mechanical switches. For switches, the board comes equipped with Cherry MXs. This particular model features linear Reds; however, there are six other colors to choose from. Considered by many to be the best switches on the market today, they are responsive, receptive, and smooth under your fingertips. And, naturally, since it is Logitech, there's a great system here for multi-device connectivity, allowing you to pair it with three devices at once and easily switch from one to the other on the fly. It is Bluetooth only, however, and it doesn't have an adjustable stand.Aluminum 6061 is the most common and arguably best aluminum type for keyboards. This precipitation-hardened alloy contains magnesium and silicon, and it features strength and corrosion resistance. Aluminum 6061 is also easy to weld and work in a machine, so you won’t get as frustrated as with other types. For switches, the Shift is available in Cherry MXs, Kaihuas, or Halos. On top are a contrasting set of double shot PBT keycaps. These have a nice textured feel with attractive, shine-through legends. Supporting the caps are a set of Cherry style plate-mounted stabs.

Unlike keyboards with plastic cases, aluminum keyboards tend to be sturdier and heavier due to the obvious material differences. The most common types of aluminum used for keyboards are 6061, 6063, and 5052. Less common types you may still see include 5053, 7075, and 6053. The Drop Shift is a modern and inventive, full-featured mechanical keyboard. Significantly shorter than a traditional full-size board, it goes for a space-efficient 1800 layout with 99 keys. This results in the home-key cluster moving above the Numpad for a similar form factor to that of a TKL. Due to being durable, malleable, and relatively inexpensive, aluminum is a fantastic material for a keyboard. Unlike plastic, it’s also easier to recycle, which is considerably better for the environment. On the whole, keyboards tend to have a more premium feel if they are made from aluminum. Constructed with a CNC anodized aluminum frame, the build quality is solid and there isn’t any flex. Besides providing plenty of strength, the frame also acts as a built-in switch plate for the PCB. The PCB itself is entirely hot-swappable and can house a selection of 3-pin mechanical switches.

USB Passthrough Port

Much like when you're using the best mouse, the best keyboard will change the way you interact with your computer and elevate your experience overall. Having tested more than our share of keyboards, we can truly say that there is massive difference between an excellent keyboard and most of the cheap ones you find online. Unfortunately, we noticed that the plate mount stabs on larger keys do rattle quite a bit, which is one area on this board you would want to sort out. On the plus side, the PBT key-caps are excellent. These are Cherry low-profile keycaps that have contrasting dye-sublimated legends. For switches, the board comes with a reliable set of Gateron Reds. These are linear mechanical switches that require a 45+15 actuation force for a very short 0.6mm pre-travel. When typing, the short pre-travel guarantees rapid keystrokes to suit a variety of different scenarios. Attached to the top plate is a plastic bottom shell. This has two rubber feet that provide one level of adjustment. Although the case is not completely aluminum, the build quality is still high with excellent rigidity. Due to weighing 1.6lbs, it has a decent amount of weight, as well.