The first thing you need to know

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboards, one size doesn’t fit all. For example, if you work primarily on a PC and do a lot of typing, make sure you’re getting a model that has standard USB ports (rather than USB-C or mini-USB). As another example, gamers should check out our roundup of gaming keyboards for more options. And finally, if you spend most of your time working on your Mac or iPad/iPhone/iPod touch or Android device (or any combination thereof), make sure you're shopping around for an iOS/Android compatible keyboard — otherwise your money is going down the drain.

A guide on what to look for in your next hot-swappable mechanical keyboard

Instead of just buying any old hot-swap mechanical keyboard, you need to consider a number of important factors. Are you looking for a special feature? Will it fit your budget? How about your typing habits and preferred style of a key switch? The best way to find what you're looking for is by reading expert opinions and user reviews from people who have already bought their favorite model. Take a look at our guide now and discover why some mechanical keyboards are clearly better than others!

Choosing between mech and non-mech switches

To decide which type of switch you want, it’s best to think about how you use your keyboard. Cherry MX Browns are a great option for most people looking for a mech keyboard because they combine a tactile and audible click, but are relatively quiet compared to other mechanical switches. If you want an even more quiet experience, consider Cherry MX Blues or Cherry MX Whites; they have no tactile or audible feedback but require less force on your fingers.

Wrist comfort and ergonomics with a split, full-size, or tenkeyless design

The first thing to understand is how a keyboard will rest on your desk. Most keyboards come with wrist rests, but they're often too large or don't conform well enough to your wrist for optimal comfort. Others (like some budget models) won't even have a wrist rest, which can lead to you placing more weight on your wrists and hands. A comfortable way of resting your hands and wrists is important for proper ergonomics, as well as for keeping them from getting fatigued or injured during long typing sessions.

Top 6 picks

It's important to choose your hot-swap mechanical keyboard wisely. There are a ton of options out there, so it’s no surprise that selecting one can be daunting. Luckily, we’ve combed through all of them for you and found what we think are six great options. Each offers a range of features designed to make sure you can have fun and be productive when using it. Below is our list of favorites, with each offering its own advantages

Conclusion

What is a Mechanical Keyboard? A mechanical cheapest hot swappable mechanical keyboard is a special kind of computer keyboard that’s powered by individual switches rather than boring old rubber domes. It was invented by IBM back in 1984, but they’ve been popular among hackers and hobbyists for years before that. Nowadays, there are tons of companies manufacturing them. Although it can be tricky to find one due to their generally high prices, you should be able to find something on your preferred budget. In fact, if you don’t want to splurge too much on a premium keyboard or just get a feel for how awesome mechanical keyboards are first, we recommend taking a look at our best budget options below.

Pros Cons

To truly benefit from a mechanical keyboard, you’ll need to spend a little more than you would for an average keyboard. Because these boards are generally customized based on personal preference, there is no standard cost for them. However, it’s not hard to find them for $100 or less. Once you have your keyboard up and running, there shouldn’t be any ongoing costs. That being said, your decision will depend on what benefits are most important to you; if customization is important, then going with a mechanical model might be worth it for its longevity and enhanced experience. But if those things aren’t very important, another type of board could suit your needs better—and save you some money in the process.