Mechanical keyboards are no longer just for PC gamers. Whether you are working in the office, playing online shooters, or just want something that matches your aesthetic, mechanical keyboards are a great addition to your setup. And with so many options and price points flooding the market, the niche is more accessible than ever.
Here are our choices for the best mechanical keyboards of 2023, ranging from products aimed at gaming to more general use purposes. We also tried to include products at various price points, so no matter what your budget is there is a choice on this list for you.
The best mechanical keyboards of 2023
Best overall: Keychron Q1 (Version 2)
The Keychron Q1 V2 is the best overall mechanical keyboard in our books. It has everything you would want out of a keyboard for work and enough gaming features to make it worth pulling double duty. If you’re looking for a board that can do it all, this is the one.
Strengths for Work:
- Gasket Mount and Double-Layer Dampening: These features minimize noise and vibration, creating a quieter typing experience that won’t disturb colleagues.
- Programmable VIA Software: Customize keybinds and macros to streamline your workflow and boost productivity.
- Multiple Layout Options: If the Q1 is just too big for you, can opt for different boards in the Q series for a similar experience with your preferred layout.
Strengths for Gaming:
- Hot-Swappable Switches: Opt for switches with a shorter actuation point for faster in-game reflexes, or choose clicky switches for satisfying feedback during intense gaming sessions.
- Dedicated Media Controls and Windows Key Lock: Conveniently control music and lock the Windows key to avoid accidental interruptions.
- Solid Build Quality: The aluminum frame and double-shot PBT keycaps offer durability and a premium feel for extended gaming sessions.
The Keychron Q1 V2 strikes a balance between features desirable for both work and play. Its hot-swappable switches, noise reduction, and customizable options cater to productivity needs, while its gaming-centric features like customizable RGB and dedicated media controls enhance the gaming experience. The Q1 V2’s versatility and well-rounded design make it the best option if you’re looking for a keyboard that can do it all.
Runner-up: Ducky One 3
The Ducky One 3 is a popular keyboard in the enthusiast space, particularly because of its premium build quality. The Ducky One 3 stands out among other mechanical keyboards because it doesn’t have any wireless features. It only has a wired connection. This focus lets the brand focus on its premium construction, though, so for the right customer its worth the trade-off.
Key Strengths:
- Hot-Swappable PCB: The Ducky One 3’s hot-swappable PCB allows users to easily switch out switches without soldering, catering to those who prefer customization or want to experiment with different feels and sounds.
- Dual-Layer Dampening: Dual-layer silicone and EVA foam dampening noticeably reduce noise and vibration for a quieter typing experience.
- High-Quality Construction: The Ducky One 3 Mini is built with a solid plastic chassis and double-shot PBT keycaps, ensuring durability and a comfortable typing experience.
- Proven Track Record: Ducky has a strong reputation for quality and reliability, making the One 3 Mini a safe choice for those seeking a dependable keyboard.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Limited Customization: While hot-swappable, the Ducky One 3 Mini lacks some customization options like per-key RGB lighting found in some other keyboards.
- Hard to Find: You can’t buy directly off the Ducky website, which means you have to rely on third-party sellers like Amazon to get this keyboard.
The Ducky One 3 is a well-rounded mechanical keyboard with a focus on quality construction, hot-swappable switches, and noise reduction. While it may not be the undisputed “best” for everyone due to its price and customization limitations, it offers a compelling combination of features and proven reliability, making it a strong contender for those seeking a versatile and high-quality keyboard.
Best keyboard for gaming: Wooting 60HE
The Wooting 60HE took the mechanical keyboard world by storm when units started appearing in the wild. And there’s good reason for that. The team at Wooting has focused exclusively on making an excellent gaming mechanical keyboard, and that’s what they accomplished. The Wooting 60HE is the best mechanical keyboard for gaming you can get, but you’ll still have to wait a while to get your own. They are currently on pre-order (at the time of writing).
Strengths for Gaming:
- Analog Optical Switches: These switches register keystrokes based on depth, not just press/release, allowing for nuanced input control. This can give a competitive edge and granular control over certain in-game actions (like driving/running/etc).
- Customizable Actuation Point: Adjust the minimum key travel required for registration, tailoring the keyboard to your preferred typing style and minimizing accidental presses.
- Rapid Trigger Mode: Engage in quick bursts of typing without compromising accuracy, which is critical when spamming a certain key.
- Hot-Swappable PCB: Experiment with different switch types to find the perfect feel for extended sessions.
- Noise Reduction: Dual-layer dampening minimizes typing noise, creating a quieter and more focused environment.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Learning Curve: Mastering the analog switches and optimal actuation points can take time and practice, potentially slowing you down or making you worse in the short term.
- Premium Price Point: The Wooting 60HE sits at the higher end of the mechanical keyboard market, potentially deterring budget-conscious writers.
The Wooting 60HE offers a unique proposition for gamers thanks to its analog switches, customizable actuation point, and rapid trigger mode. However, the learning curve, premium price, and 60% layout might not be for everyone. But if you’re looking for something on the cutting edge, the Wooting 60HE is tough to beat. You’ll just have to wait to get it.
Runner-up: Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro
The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro is another great keyboard worth considering if you are primarily focused on gaming. While it isn’t quite the best, its undeniable focus on performance and immersion makes it a strong contender for those seeking a dedicated gaming keyboard.
Strengths for Gamers:
- Hyperpolling 8000Hz: This blistering polling rate transmits keystrokes eight times faster than traditional keyboards, minimizing input lag and delivering near-instantaneous response.
- Razer Optical Switches: These switches boast faster actuation and greater durability compared to traditional mechanical switches, offering a competitive edge in fast-paced games.
- Dedicated Macro Keys and Media Controls: Streamline in-game actions and manage media on the fly with eight programmable macro keys and dedicated media buttons.
- Chroma RGB Lighting: Customize each key with 16.8 million colors and immersive lighting effects, creating a personalized and dynamic gaming atmosphere.
- Solid Build Quality: The aluminum construction and double-shot ABS keycaps ensure the BlackWidow V4 Pro can withstand even the most intense gaming sessions.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Premium Price Point: The BlackWidow V4 Pro sits on the higher end of the gaming keyboard spectrum, potentially deterring budget-conscious players.
- Razer Synapse Software: It’s still a chore to use, and it’s the only way to customize the keyboard.
The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro caters specifically to gamers seeking a high-performance keyboard with cutting-edge technology and immersive features. Its hyperpolling rate, optical switches, and customizable lighting enhance the gaming experience, making it a compelling option for those who prioritize speed, responsiveness, and personalization. However, its premium price and focus on gaming might not be ideal for everyone.
Best low-profile keyboard: LOFREE FLOW
The Lofree Flow makes a bold statement in the low-profile mechanical keyboard arena with its unique design and feature set. Its blend of aesthetics, functionality, and portability makes it a compelling option for those seeking a stylish and compact typing companion.
Strengths for Low-Profile Enthusiasts:
- Ultra-Slim Design: The Flow boasts an impressively thin profile, making it ideal for minimalist setups and travel.
- Tactile Low-Profile Switches: Proprietary switches offer a satisfying tactile bump and quiet operation, blending the benefits of traditional mechanical keyboards with a low-profile form factor.
- Hot-Swappable Sockets: Experiment and personalize your typing experience by swapping out the switches for your preferred feel and sound.
- Multi-Device Connectivity: Switch seamlessly between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connections, catering to both desktop and mobile use.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The Lofree Flow has a distinct look without being garish. It’s a nice accent to a setup without drawing too much attention to itself.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Limited Customization: While hot-swappable, the Flow lacks advanced features like macro keys or per-key RGB lighting found in some competitors.
- Price Point: The Flow falls on the higher end of the low-profile market, potentially deterring budget-conscious buyers.
- Limited Switch Options: It’s great that the keyboard is hot-swappable, but there just aren’t that many low-profile switches or keycaps on the market. That might change in the future, but for right now the options are limited.
The Lofree Flow carves a niche for itself with its stylish design, compact form factor, and satisfying tactile switches. Its hot-swappable sockets and multi-device connectivity add further versatility. However, its limited customization options and premium price tag might not appeal to everyone. For users prioritizing aesthetics, portability, and a satisfying low-profile typing experience, the Flow is a keyboard worth considering.
Runner-up: NuPhy Air75 V2
The NuPhy Air 75 V2 packs a punch in a slim package, making it a strong contender in the low-profile mechanical keyboard arena. This is a slightly improved version of the original Air 75, emphasis on the slightly. The Air75 was already a popular keyboard, and the V2 is just a refinement of that experience. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right?
Strengths for Low-Profile Seekers:
- Ultra-Thin Design: At just 16mm thick, the Air 75 V2 is a sleek and compact companion, ideal for minimalist setups and on-the-go typing.
- Gateron Low-Profile Switches: Choose from Brown, Red, or Blue switches for a satisfying typing experience tailored to your preference.
- Hot-Swappable Sockets: Customize your typing feel by swapping out the switches for your preferred brands and styles.
- Multi-Device Connectivity: Seamlessly switch between up to 3 devices via Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, or a wired connection.
- Feature-Rich Design: Backlighting, media controls, and dedicated function keys round out the package, offering both style and functionality.
- VIA Support: You can customize macros and hotkeys in the VIA software, letting you craft a personalized and productive typing experience.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Premium Price Point: The Air 75 V2 sits on the higher end of the low-profile market, potentially deterring budget-conscious buyers.
- Low-profile Switches: There aren’t many low-profile switches on the market. So while it’s great that the board is hot-swappable, there isn’t much to choose from at the moment.
The NuPhy Air 75 V2 strikes a balance between portability, functionality, and a satisfying low-profile typing experience. Its hot-swappable switches, multi-device connectivity, and feature-rich design cater to a variety of users. If you prioritize a slim, versatile keyboard that prioritizes customization, the Air 75 V2 deserves serious consideration.
Best barebones keyboard: Keychron Q6 Barebones
Any of the Q-Series Pro barebones boards could have ended up on this list, but we went with the Q6 Pro because it is a full-size keyboard. However, our feelings about this board are the same aross the line. If you want the satisfaction of building your own board, Keychron’s Q-Series barebones products offer the perfect foundation.
Strengths:
- Double-Gasket Mount and Screw-in Stabilizers: This combination minimizes noise and vibration, offering a smooth and quiet typing experience.
- Hot-Swappable PCB: Easily swap out switches without soldering to experiment with different feels and sounds, tailoring the keyboard to your exact preferences.
- High-Quality Construction: The Q6 Pro boasts a solid aluminum frame and double-shot PBT keycaps, ensuring long-lasting durability and a premium typing feel.
- Multiple Layout Options: Choose from full-size, tenkeyless, and 75% layouts to optimize for your desk space and needs.
- QMK and VIA Compatibility: Program key functions, macros, and lighting effects easily through open-source software for ultimate customization.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Premium Price Point: The Q6 Pro sits on the higher end of the barebones market, potentially deterring budget-minded enthusiasts.
- Limited Sound Dampening Options: While the double-gasket mount is effective, some might prefer additional sound-dampening materials for further noise reduction.
The Keychron Q6 Pro offers a compelling barebones package for enthusiasts who value high-end build quality, customization options, and a quiet typing experience. Its hot-swappable PCB, multiple layouts, and open-source software compatibility cater to personal preferences. For those seeking a versatile foundation to build their dream keyboard, the Q6 Pro remains a strong contender.
Runner-up: GMMK Pro
If you’re reading this list, you probably already know about the GMMK Pro, and there’s a reason for that. While there are plenty of solid budget offerings out there, the GMMK Pro is still simply one of the best barebones boards you can buy. You’ll pay a premium for it, but for the right consumer, it’s well worth it.
Strengths:
- Gasket-Mount Design: Offers a smooth and quiet typing experience, minimizing noise and vibration.
- Hot-Swappable PCB and Screw-in Stabilizers: Experiment with different switches and customize the typing feel to your exact preferences, without soldering.
- Solid CNC Aluminum Construction: Ensures long-lasting durability and a premium feel.
- Multiple Plate Options: Choose from aluminum, polycarbonate, and brass plates to further personalize the typing sound and feel.
- Rotary Encoder and Dedicated Media Keys: Enhance your workflow with convenient control options.
- VIA and QMK Compatibility: Program key functions, macros, and lighting effects easily through open-source software.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Premium Price Point: The GMMK Pro sits on the higher end of the barebones market, potentially deterring budget-conscious builders.
- Not for Beginners: The extensive customization options might overwhelm new users, requiring some research and knowledge.
The GMMK Pro provides a feature-rich platform for barebones enthusiasts seeking a high-end typing experience and extensive customization possibilities. Its gasket-mount design, hot-swappable PCB, and multiple plate options make it an excellent choice for those wanting to finely tune their keyboard experience.
Best budget option: Royal Kludge RK61
There are better keyboards than the Royal Kludge RK61. But what’s impressive about this keyboard is how many quality features the company has squeezed in for such a low price. There are compromises, but for the right buyer, those compromises will be well worth it given the price point.
Strengths:
- Hot-Swappable PCB: Experiment with different switch types without soldering, personalizing your typing experience and avoiding costly upgrades.
- Compact 60% Layout: Fits snugly on any desk, ideal for minimalist setups and travel.
- Bluetooth and Wired Connectivity: Switch between wireless freedom and wired reliability seamlessly.
- Surprisingly Sturdy Build: The plastic construction belies its price point, offering a solid typing platform.
- Backlighting Options: Choose from various lighting effects for a touch of personality and improved visibility in low-light conditions.
Potential Drawbacks:
- 60% Layout: Omits function keys and requires key combinations for certain actions, potentially requiring some adaptation for new users.
- No Dedicated Arrow Keys: Accessing arrows requires using modifier keys, which might feel inconvenient for some users.
- Limited Sound Dampening: The stock configuration can be noisy, and additional dampening materials might be necessary for a quieter experience.
- Basic Design: The RK61 prioritizes functionality over aesthetics, and some users might find its look underwhelming.
The Royal Kludge RK61 packs a punch for its price tag. Its hot-swappable PCB, compact size, and wireless connectivity make it a versatile option for budget-conscious buyers. However, the 60% layout, lack of dedicated arrow keys, and basic design might not suit everyone. For those seeking a feature-rich, portable, and affordable entry into the mechanical keyboard world, the RK61 is a strong contender worth considering.
Runner-up: EPOMAKER TH80 Pro
The Epomaker TH80 Pro is on the the higher end for “budget” boards, but you get your money’s worth. There are some weird quirks with this board (and its sister boards the SE and X), but for someone just getting into this space the Epomaker TH80 Pro is a solid starting point.
Strengths:
- Hot-Swappable PCB: Experiment with different switches without soldering, crafting your perfect typing feel on a budget.
- Solid Build: The plastic chassis and PBT keycaps provide a surprisingly sturdy platform.
- Rotary Knob: It’s awesome to see a knob at this price point, which is rare.
- Barebones Option: If you want to try and customize the board yourself, you can get a barebones edition for a decent price.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Limited Sound Dampening: While decent for the price, the stock sound profile might not satisfy enthusiasts seeking deep silencing. Epomaker also claims it is gasket-mounted, but the quality of that is questionable.
- Weird Aesthetics: The TH80 Pro doesn’t look bad, but it’s retro-pastel aesthetic definitely isn’t going to be for everyone.
- Software Reliance: The Epomaker software is kind of weird, and we would have rather seen
Overall:
The Epomaker TH80 Pro shines as an accessible entry point for barebones enthusiasts. Its hot-swappable PCB, solid build, and pre-installed Gateron Pro switches offer a satisfying foundation for customization without breaking the bank. However, limited sound dampening, basic aesthetics, and software reliance might not appeal to everyone. For those seeking a budget-friendly platform to build their dream keyboard, the TH80 Pro is a tempting and versatile option.