Best Mechanical Keyboards You Should Check Out

If you spend a lot of time typing or gaming, a good mechanical keyboard can make a huge difference. They are not just more satisfying to use, but they can also boost your speed and accuracy. Whether you’re a gamer, a writer, or just someone who appreciates a quality keyboard, we’ve rounded up some of the best options out there. Let’s dive in and find the right one for you.

1. Wordrunner

The Wordrunner is a mechanical keyboard developed specifically for writers. It features a die-cast aluminum body, a gasket mount design, and high-quality tactile switches rated for 80 million presses. The keyboard is compact and includes a multi-device connection system with both Bluetooth and USB-C support, allowing pairing with up to four devices.

Wordrunner introduces a built-in Wordometer, a real-time word counter visible even when the keyboard is powered off. It also includes a sprint timer to assist with focused writing sessions. The function row is redesigned with writer-focused shortcuts, and there are three customizable macro keys for frequently used commands. Additional features include a media joystick for volume and playback control.

Visit the Wordrunner Kickstarter to explore full details and see what’s included.

Key Points:

• Die-cast aluminum construction
• Real-time Wordometer with 8-digit counter
• Sprint timer for writing sessions
• Redesigned function row with writing shortcuts
• Customizable macro keys
• Bluetooth and USB-C multi-device support

2. Keychron Q1

The Keychron Q1 is a mechanical keyboard with an all-aluminum frame and a 75 percent layout. It includes a hot-swappable PCB, allowing users to change switches without the need for soldering. The keyboard keeps essential keys like the function row and arrows while reducing overall desk space usage. Its design focuses on offering flexibility for different switch and keycap combinations.

It uses a gasket-mounted structure, which can create a softer typing feel compared to rigid mounting styles. The south-facing RGB lighting provides compatibility with various keycap profiles, reducing interference. The Q1 is available in different color options and supports both Windows and macOS operating systems. Users can further adjust key functions and macros through VIA software.

Key Points:

• Aluminum case
• 75 percent layout
• Hot-swappable switches
• Gasket-mounted structure
• South-facing RGB lighting
• VIA software compatibility

3. Logitech G Pro X

The Logitech G Pro X is a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard designed for a more compact workspace. It features a detachable USB-C, making it easier to transport and store. The keyboard supports hot-swappable switches, allowing users to change them without soldering tools or technical expertise.

It comes with customizable RGB backlighting and a plastic case designed for portability. The tenkeyless layout is often preferred by users who want more room for mouse movement or a cleaner desk setup. The G Pro X is compatible with Logitech’s G HUB software, which allows for key remapping and lighting adjustments. It can be used for both gaming and general typing tasks.

Key Points:

• Tenkeyless design
• Hot-swappable switches
• Detachable USB-С cable
• Customizable RGB lighting
• Compact and portable
• G HUB software support

4. SteelSeries Apex Pro

The SteelSeries Apex Pro is a full-size mechanical keyboard that features adjustable mechanical switches called OmniPoint. These switches allow users to set the actuation point of each key based on personal preference. The keyboard includes a magnetic wrist rest and an aluminum top plate, aiming for a sturdy build and added comfort during extended use.

It also comes with per-key RGB lighting and a small OLED display for quick settings and notifications. The Apex Pro connects via a wired USB connection and includes onboard memory for saving profiles. Users can customize key functions and lighting effects through the SteelSeries Engine software.

Key Points:

• Full-size layout
• Adjustable actuation OmniPoint switches
• Aluminum top plate
• Magnetic wrist rest
• OLED smart display
• SteelSeries Engine software support

5. Razer Huntsman V2

The Razer Huntsman V2 is a mechanical keyboard available in full-size and tenkeyless layouts. It uses Razer’s own optical switches, designed to register keypresses through light-based actuation. The keyboard includes a sound-dampening layer inside to reduce noise during use.

It features per-key RGB lighting customizable through Razer Synapse software. The keyboard offers a detachable wrist rest with a soft, cushioned surface. It connects via a wired USB cable and includes onboard memory for profile storage. The Huntsman V2 is intended for users looking for quick response times and lower latency.

Key Points:

• Full-size or tenkeyless layout
• Razer optical switches
• Sound-dampening design
• Detachable wrist rest
• Per-key RGB lighting
• Razer Synapse software support

6. Ducky One 3

The Ducky One 3 is a mechanical keyboard series that comes in various sizes, including full-size, TKL, and 60 percent layouts. It features a hot-swappable PCB, letting users switch out switches easily. The keyboard uses a dual-color PBT keycap design with a focus on build quality and stability.

It offers per-key RGB lighting and uses a detachable USB-C cable for connection. The One 3 series also features a balanced weight distribution and improved case acoustics aimed at a quieter typing experience. Ducky’s onboard controls allow users to adjust lighting and macros without additional software.

Key Points:

• Multiple layout options
• Hot-swappable PCB
• Dual-color PBT keycaps
• Detachable USB-C cable
• Per-key RGB lighting
• Onboard lighting and macro controls

7. Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT

The Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT is a full-size mechanical keyboard featuring dedicated macro keys and a brushed aluminum frame. It comes with Cherry MX mechanical switches and offers per-key RGB lighting that can be customized using Corsair’s iCUE software. A detachable wrist rest is included for added comfort during longer sessions.

The keyboard also supports six dedicated macro keys, useful for gaming or productivity shortcuts. It has onboard memory that stores up to five profiles. The K95 connects via a wired USB and features a USB passthrough port for additional device connectivity.

Key Points:

• Full-size layout
• Cherry MX switches
• Dedicated macro keys
• Brushed aluminum frame
• Detachable wrist rest
• iCUE software support

8. Glorious GMMK Pro

The Glorious GMMK Pro is a 75 percent mechanical keyboard designed with an aluminum case and a gasket-mounted layout. It features hot-swappable switch sockets, making it easy to change switches without soldering. The keyboard comes barebones, allowing users to choose their own switches and keycaps.

It includes a rotary encoder for volume control and per-key RGB lighting. The GMMK Pro uses a wired USB-C connection and offers full programmability through Glorious Core software. It is aimed at users who prefer a more customizable and modular keyboard experience.

Key Points:

• 75 percent layout
• Aluminum case
• Hot-swappable PCB
• Rotary encoder knob
• Per-key RGB lighting
• Glorious Core software support

9. Anne Pro 2

The Anne Pro 2 is a 60 percent mechanical keyboard, meaning it has a compact layout without a function row, arrow keys, or a number pad. It supports Bluetooth wireless connection along with wired USB-C connectivity. Users can pair it with up to four devices and switch between them easily.

It features per-key RGB lighting and a range of switch options. The Anne Pro 2 also supports custom key mapping and macros through its ObinsKit software. Its small size is often chosen for portability or minimalist setups.

Key Points:

• 60 percent compact layout
• Wired and Bluetooth connectivity
• Supports multi-device pairing
• Per-key RGB lighting
• Multiple switch options
• ObinsKit software support

10. Varmilo VA87M

The Varmilo VA87M is a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard that focuses on a traditional typing experience. It features PBT keycaps and a standard ANSI layout without RGB lighting. The keyboard comes in various switch options and is available in multiple color themes.

It connects via a wired USB cable and is known for its simple design. The VA87M has a metal plate inside for added weight and stability. It offers no software support, focusing instead on a straightforward plug-and-play setup.

Key Points:

• Tenkeyless layout
• PBT keycaps
• Standard ANSI layout
• No RGB lighting
• Multiple switch options
• Wired USB connection

11. HyperX Alloy Origins Core

The HyperX Alloy Origins Core is a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard with an all-aluminum body. It uses HyperX’s own mechanical switches, which are designed for a balance between speed and responsiveness. The keyboard is built with a compact form factor, aiming to save desk space while maintaining essential keys.

It features per-key RGB lighting with multiple effects, customizable through HyperX’s NGENUITY software. The Alloy Origins Core connects via a detachable USB-C cable and includes onboard memory to store profiles directly on the keyboard.

Key Points:

• Tenkeyless layout
• Aluminum body
• HyperX mechanical switches
• Per-key RGB lighting
• Detachable USB-C cable
• NGENUITY software support

12. Drop CTRL

The Drop CTRL is a tenkeyless mechanical keyboard with a solid aluminum frame. It features hot-swappable switch sockets, allowing users to change switches without soldering. The keyboard comes pre-built but can also be customized with different keycaps and switches.

It offers per-key RGB lighting and uses a USB-C connection. The Drop CTRL is programmable with QMK firmware, giving users control over key remapping and lighting effects. It’s designed for users interested in a more modular and customizable keyboard setup.

Key Points:

• Tenkeyless layout
• Aluminum frame
• Hot-swappable switches
• Per-key RGB lighting
• USB-C connection
• QMK firmware support

13. Akko 3068B Plus

The Akko 3068B Plus is a 65 percent mechanical keyboard, slightly larger than a 60 percent layout with added arrow keys and navigation buttons. It supports both Bluetooth wireless and wired USB-C connections. This keyboard is compatible with a wide range of devices.

The keyboard features PBT keycaps and offers multiple switch options. It also supports per-key RGB lighting and has built-in macro functionality. The 3068B Plus is aimed at users who want a balance between compactness and extra functionality.

Key Points:

• 65 percent compact layout
• Wired and Bluetooth connectivity
• Multi-device pairing
• PBT keycaps
• Per-key RGB lighting
• Built-in macro support

Conclusion

Choosing the right writing tool is a personal decision that depends on your habits, needs, and preferences. Mechanical keyboards offer a familiar, responsive typing experience suited for everything from daily tasks to intensive writing sessions. For those looking to minimize distractions, there are also dedicated writing devices that focus purely on drafting without the interruptions of modern technology. Whether you prefer the versatility of a mechanical keyboard or the focus of a distraction-free device, the best choice is the one that supports your workflow and helps you stay consistent. In the end, the right tool is the one that makes writing feel easier and helps you get your ideas onto the page.

FAQ

What is a mechanical keyboard?

A mechanical keyboard uses individual mechanical switches for each key, providing a more tactile and durable typing experience compared to typical membrane keyboards.

Why do writers prefer mechanical keyboards?

Many writers prefer mechanical keyboards because of the feedback and precision they offer, which can make long writing sessions more comfortable and help reduce typing fatigue.

Are mechanical keyboards good for long writing sessions?

Yes, mechanical keyboards are often considered good for long sessions due to their durability and consistent typing feel, especially models with tactile or linear switches suited for comfort.

What features should writers look for in a keyboard?

Writers often look for a comfortable typing experience, good key travel, durable switches, and layouts that fit their typing style. Some also prefer keyboards that are quiet or have customizable key functions.