I Made a Costly Mistake Buying a Mechanical Keyboard—Learn from It

I made a costly mistake buying a mechanical keyboard—learn from my experience and avoid overspending on your next purchase

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I Made a Costly Mistake Buying a Mechanical Keyboard

High-end mechanical keyboards come with a hefty price tag, but does that mean budget-friendly options aren’t worth considering? I made a costly mistake buying a mechanical keyboard—learn from it before you overspend like I did. I ended up paying too much for my current keyboard, only to realize later that I could have gotten a great experience without breaking the bank.

Are Cheap Mechanical Keyboards Any Good? My Experience with the Redgear MK881

From 2018 to 2023, I used the Redgear MK881 mechanical keyboard every day. I just upgraded to the Keychron K2 V2 because it held up nicely even with frequent use. I spent roughly $34 on the MK881, demonstrating the greatness of inexpensive mechanical keyboards.

Good choices with features like RGB lighting, hot-swappable switches, and occasionally software support are available on Amazon for less than $50. For daily use, the majority of inexpensive keyboards function flawlessly.

The type of switches matters. Cheaper keyboards often use Kailh, Gateron, or Cherry MX switches. While they feel slightly different, blue, red, and brown switches provide a similar typing experience. If your keyboard has hot-swappable switches, you can replace them, add foam for better sound, or lube them for smoother typing—small tweaks that improve performance without extra cost.

One downside of budget keyboards is the lack of software for macros or custom profiles. Expensive models offer per-key RGB control, while cheaper ones have limited lighting effects.

However, budget keyboards have improved a lot. Now, for around $80, you can get features like hot-swappable switches, volume knobs, and wireless connectivity. For example, the Royal Kludge S98, under $100, even includes a smart screen.

If you need a functional and customizable keyboard without overspending, budget mechanical keyboards are a great choice.

Is an Expensive Keyboard Worth It? Here’s What You Get

If you decide to invest in a premium keyboard in the $150–$200 range, the first thing you’ll notice is the significant improvement in build quality. Because these high-end keyboards are usually heavier and made of premium materials like aluminum frames, they seem more significant and durable. Keycaps are also of significantly higher quality and are often made of PBT plastic which is more resistant to wear and tear, than the ABS keycaps found in less priced keyboards.

Another major upgrade is the typing experience. The switches in more expensive keyboards tend to be much smoother, more consistent, and better stabilized, resulting in a more satisfying and precise feel. These keyboards also have improved sound dampening, which reduces noise and gives a more premium typing experience. If you go for a model with magnetic switches, you get even more customization options, allowing you to fine-tune actuation point for each key.

Better RGB lighting is another feature of high-end keyboards. Premium versions include per-key RGB control enabling you to precisely modify lighting effects whereas budget keyboards could just have a few preset lighting patterns. With the help of the robust software that many of these keyboards come with, you can customize profiles, make intricate macros & even adjust key functions to your preferences.

Aside from the core typing experience, premium keyboards often come with extra features that make them more functional and convenient. While some low-cost choices may have features like control knobs, OLED panels, and dedicated macro buttons, high-end keyboards often offer far superior execution and overall finesse.

Better materials, better switches, better keycaps, better software support and other features that can improve your typing or gaming experience are all obtained by spending more money on a keyboard. A high-end keyboard is definitely something to think about if you value comfort, durability, and personalization.

How Design and Build Quality Impact Your Keyboard

When it comes to design and build quality, more expensive keyboards generally offer a much better experience. But that doesn’t imply that less expensive keyboards are subpar or short-lived. Even inexpensive keyboards can endure for years without experiencing any serious problems with the right maintenance and the periodic cleaning.

The biggest difference is in the typing experience. While most mechanical keyboards can be improved by changing switches and keycaps, high-end keyboards come with premium parts from the start. They usually have smoother switches, stronger PBT keycaps, and a more refined design.

For example, I own both the Keychron K2 V2 and the Arion Frost K8 Pro. Using them as they are, difference is clear. Arion Frost K8 Pro feels much smoother and more satisfying to type on because of its better materials and design. While budget keyboards can be upgraded, expensive ones offer a great experience right away.

If you want a high-quality keyboard that performs well without needing modifications, investing in a premium model is worth it. The better materials, smoother switches, and higher-quality keycaps create a superior typing experience, especially if you use your keyboard a lot.

How Much Should You Pay for Your Next Keyboard?

With the huge variety of mechanical keyboards available today, spending more than $100–$150 on one isn’t really necessary unless you have specific needs. Keyboards in this price range offer almost everything you need, including high-quality switches, durable keycaps, and software support for customization. Whether you want a keyboard for gaming, typing, or general use, there are plenty of solid options that provide a premium experience without breaking the bank.

If you have a small budget, you can find good mechanical keyboards for $50 to $80. Even without extra features like sophisticated software or high-end materials, they function effectively. Hot-swappable switches are another feature that many low-cost keyboards have allowing you to swap them out at any moment.

When buying a keyboard, focus on what matters instead of special editions or ads. Unless you need a special layout like an Alice-style keyboard you don’t have to spend a lot. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there are good options at every price.

FAQ

Are mechanical keyboards better than regular keyboards?
Yes, mechanical keyboards last longer, feel better to type on, and can be customized with different switches and keycaps.

What are some good cheap mechanical keyboard brands?
Keychron, Akko, Royal Kludge, and Redragon are all excellent low-cost brands. They provide excellent keyboards at affordable costs.

What is a hot-swappable keyboard?
A hot-swappable keyboard lets you change switches easily without needing special tools. This helps you customize how your keyboard feels.

Do expensive keyboards last longer?
Stronger materials, such as PBT keycaps and metal frames, are used in expensive keyboards to extend their lifespan. However, an inexpensive keyboard can potentially endure for years if it is properly maintained.

Should I get a wired or wireless keyboard?
Wired keyboards are more stable with no delays, while wireless ones give you more freedom and a cleaner desk. Some keyboards have both options.