Other Good Keyboards
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% for $300: Razer’s newest and highest-end keyboard does almost everything right but it’s just way too expensive (7/10, Review). The Pro keeps the same strong tactile switches and gasket mounting system of the original BlackWidow V4 75% and adds wireless connectivity, a new dial on the side, and a customizable OLED screen right next to it. These upgrades don’t justify the $110 price bump, but they’re still incredibly well-executed and come together to make an impressive gaming keyboard if you can find it on sale.
Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1 for $119: Cherry’s latest entry into the gaming space is a full-size, RGB-heavy keyboard that comes stock with its new MX2A switches and a “noise-dampening structure” meant to reduce typing noise. This keyboard is a solid option with a clacky sound profile, stylish RGB, and a robust metal chassis. While it’s a bit rough around the edges compared to some of the other keyboards on this list, it has a sturdy no-frills construction, and Cherry’s switches have repeatedly proven themselves to be long-lasting and reliable.
Wooting 60HE+ for $175: Between an archaic mounting method and long wait times for delivery, I just can’t recommend the 60HE over Keychron’s Q1 HE. While I still think it’s a fantastic Hall effect keyboard, it just doesn’t have the same polish and refinement as Keychron’s offering. The 60HE still uses a tray-mount system that, while modular, doesn’t sound or feel great to type on. Along with that, the plastic case is disappointing at the price; it was once an acceptable trade-off for customizable Hall effect switches, but Keychron offers a full-metal, gasket-mounted keyboard for around $50 more, and I think the improvements are worth the money unless you prefer a 60% layout or want the ability to use the 60HE’s wide range of aftermarket cases.
Cherry KC 200 MX for $90: The KC 200 MX is an incredibly simple and barebones keyboard that doesn’t add anything new, or remove anything necessary. It’s a full-size mechanical keyboard with Cherry MX2A switches, a metal plate, and hardly anything else. It’s not customizable, it’s not programmable, but I can say for sure that it will be durable, reliable, and at least somewhat enjoyable to type on for years to come.
Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional Hybrid Type-S for $360: While the new Studio has replaced this model as my pick for programmers, this older version is still great if you want something simpler, or with a unique typing feel. The layout is still great and the Topre switches—a kinda-membrane, kinda-mechanical switch with a deep typing sound and distinct, rounded tactility—are a joy to type on. Plus, these keyboards have an extensive community with aftermarket parts and guides on how to modify and customize them to your liking.
