(Part 2) Best products from r/keyboards

Unfortunately Redragon only carries Outemu Blue switches.
If you can sacrifice RGB for price, here are some recommendations.


Velocifire TKL02: https://www.amazon.com/VELOCIFIRE-TKL02-Mechanical-Copywriters-Programmers/dp/B07DFBKYT5/ref=sr_1_14?crid=40PZNVPVZBZK&keywords=brown+switch+keyboard&qid=1566626313&s=gateway&sprefix=brown+switch%2Celectronics%2C175&sr=8-14
I own one of these that was passed down from a friend, the body is a bit different but the switches make for some overall really great typing experiences. I use this when I'm trying to be quiet at night personally.


HyperX Alloy FPS Pro: https://www.amazon.com/HyperX-Alloy-FPS-Pro-Ultra-Compact/dp/B074F5L8GQ/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=red+switch+keyboard&qid=1566626478&s=gateway&sr=8-5
This is an option for genuine Cherry MX Red.
Personally one of my favorite boards and is completely justified by the price. Most mechanicals that carry genuine Cherry MX Reds are gonna be a bit pricier in this range, but this is one of your only budget options if you want to try and avoid the scratchier Outemu Reds.


E-Element Z-88: https://www.amazon.com/Element-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard-Switch/dp/B07CMNZRKP/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=red+switch+keyboard&qid=1566626617&s=gateway&smid=A5DH81C821W8U&sr=8-7
The Z-88 is another budget option for Outemu Reds and probably a board I've enjoyed the most out of every board that has the Outemu Red switch in them.
White may not be your color but the boards layout makes if very space saver friendly and offers the red switches that are better working in this board.
I think the Outemu Reds in this board feeling a tad better have something to do with the way to body of the board was built though.

in terms of brand reputation, filco is highly recommended by many keyboard enthusiasts. the TKL version and the one with TK both are cherry mx browns, excellent build quality, but also a bit pricey. The Filcos also come in a style where the the key lettering is printed on the front of the keys instead of the top (TK/TKL).


Another brand that has solid build quality is leopold. simple design, build quality that rivals the filco, mx browns and a removable USB cable.

another popular brand on reddit and in general are the das keyboards. Also not backlit, but like the filco, the build quality's great, though some people don't care for the glossy finish (looks great, but attracts fingerprints like crazy).

if backlighting is important to you, the razer blackwidow has features more suited towards gamers (macro keys, backlighting, earphone/mic jacks, usb port) though the build quality would be arguably better on the first 3.

Do you like linear switches? For the most common switches the noise level goes from softest to loudest. Black, red, brown, then blue. Im not a keyboard expert but I know Tesoro is a pretty good budgetish keyboard option

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074C9QKXH/ref=twister_B07BTD11KM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1. Its about $100

Corsair has some special edition white keyboards. https://www.amazon.com/CORSAIR-Mechanical-RAPIDFIRE-Gaming-Keyboard/dp/B07D5S24BP/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1542083689&sr=8-7&keywords=white+mechanical+keyboard&dpID=41hmy8JQAlL&preST=_SX300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch. $175

And so does Razer, however they are the loud switches: https://www.amazon.com/Razer-BlackWidow-Chroma-Construction-Keystrokes/dp/B072JWR7Y5/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1542083689&sr=8-5&keywords=white+mechanical+keyboard $150.

Off the top of my head, thats what i can think of. There are also a lot of other cheap like $30-$50 white mechanical keyboards.

I dont really know a whole lot about the custom keyboard realm. But those keyboards are super nice. However they can get expensive.

I've had a look at the devastator combo and it definitely looks interesting at that pricepoint. However, I would offer the following:

1. What do you want from your keyboard? Do you want to improve your typing experience or looking to enhance your gaming? Either way, shelling out more money will get you better ergonomics (reduced strain, increased longevity, etc.) and in most cases a big increase in how long a board can stay with you.
   
2. Have you considered mechanical switches? I switched a little while back and now I can't imagine buying rubber dome again. It's not because of elitism, it's simply a better experience for me all round and I now live in the knowledge that the board I have will be with me for some time.
   
   There are some really decent boards at reasonable pricepoints scattered all about. The immediate ones that come to mind are:
   
   
3. Corsair K65
   
4. CM Storm Quickfire Rapid
   
5. Rosewill RK-6000
   
   Granted, these are above the pricepoint mentioned for the devastator but if you're willing, the ergonomics and quality of these boards should vastly outweigh it.
   
   As mentioned, have a look at /r/mechanicalkeyboards once you have a feel for what you want in a keyboard. If you spend significant amount of time behind a computer in the first place (gaming + work can easily soak up dozens of hours a week) then investing in quality kit seems like a good idea.
   
   If you think the Devastator set looks awesome and fits your needs, by all means go for it. Be sure to post pics and your experience when you get it!
   
   EDIT: For reference, have a quick look at the reviews being posted on Amazon. Though not the most reputable source, they do seem to highlight a number of concerns for this combo with build quality and polish. Most notably the fact that the scroll lock key is used to turn the LEDs on and off on the keyboard but simultaneously also turns that function on. This may be a problem if you use programs that respond to that key being on. In addition, it appears that a) the keys are not particularly well-finished and may have some chips in them and b) when the LEDs are off you can't see the writing on the keys. Not a problem if you're a touch typist but if you tend to look at the board while typing you may have issues.
   
   Linky: http://www.amazon.com/CM-Storm-Devastator-Gaming-Keyboard/dp/B00DKXXAAQ

Yep, old school Microsoft Natural Keyboard. That generation came in three flavors - The Natural Keyboard, the Natural Keyboard Pro, and the Natural Keyboard Elite. The only difference between the models was that the one you've got is like the base model. The Pro added a row of media keys above the function keys as well as a passive two-port USB hub in the back. The Elite model had no media keys and squashed the mid-block of keys to a two-column, three-row, configuration in order to save an inch or two of space.

The current iteration of this keyboard is the Microsoft Surface Ergonomic Keyboard. You can still find the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard and Microsoft Natural Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 pretty easily. The newer / flatter keyboards have gone to a chiclet / scissor switch / laptop style key, while the 4000 and older are the more classic stem-based rubber domes.

Have you tried the Microsoft Sculpt ($60 - I feel I've seen it for a bit cheaper than this) ? It is very similar, but wireless with a split space bar and very shallow keys that are easy to press. My big issue with it was it seemed to flex a bit when I typed, especially when I pressed buttons high on the keyboard. However, I type fairly hard sometimes. They are often on display at large electronics stores, so you should try it before you consider it.

I also found this and this.

I would also recommend you look at r/ErgoMechKeyboards/.

If you have money to burn, I would consider looking into two-piece split keyboards like the Kinesis Feestyle2. I feel like those might allow a more natural wrist position.

I see.

Personally I would recommend a mechanical keyboard to anyone who spends a decent amount of time on a computer.

This is one of the cheaper make/models but still has good reviews, also a friend has been using one for years and is quite happy with it.

EDIT: So apparently there is some weird mix up. This is the keyboard i'm familiar with, a bit more expensive but still on the cheaper side compared to other mech keybaords. I thought my original link was to the same keyboard but with blue switches, after looking it up apparently they are not.

Its obvious that you aren't trying to spend much. Most folks will regurgitate Ducky Shine. Its a great keyboard but I'm pretty sure out of your price range.

None of those keyboards are known for their quality really. One problem with backlit keyboards is that the keys wear eventually and then you get a giant blob of backlighting instead of a letter/symbol.

Typing for long periods of time on a "slim" type keyboard is usually not recommended since users push the keys too hard and add unnecessary force to their finger joints. This could lead to long term pain. Out of the ones you picked the Logysis is probably the best but those keys still require quite a bit of force.

If you want to check out mechanical backlit keyboards and don't need the 10key pad check out the KeyCool 87 or The CM storm quickfire pro if you do need the 10key pad. Those keyboards are most likely STILL out of your price range though. If you are willing to spend that much however you could wait till /r/massdrop has the group buy on the Ducky Shine 2 which will be a very good deal for most people (I bet it'll go down to at least 120 dollars per person).

TL;DR: Rubber dome keyboards are bad but they fit your budget. Go for non-short travel ones. The Logysis is your best bet.


PS) If you decide on a mechanical keyboard check out /r/mechanicalkeyboards. You will get more information about what fits your need than people exclusively saying to buy Ducky/Filco.

In keeping with DREVO, they have the BladeMaster TE that's out now. It's a great board according to reviews. I was a backer on KickStarter for it, and am awaiting my PRO version, so I can't give a first hand account for it.


They use GATERON switches on the TE version, but from what I am reading and seeing on YouTube, they feel like Cherry switches.

​

If has full RGB under the keys, as well as an accent bar that wraps around the whole board.


Here's the board on Amazon with the blue switches:
https://www.amazon.com/BladeMaster-Gaming-Mechanical-Keyboard-Switch/dp/B07H7H3ZRJ?th=1

​

Though it does not come in white (yet), the keys can always be swapped out for white caps. If he has a white board now that has MX-style switches, he might be able to just swap the caps over (as long as they have the same profile).

​

Happy hunting!

I like my Drevo TKL with knockoff black switches. As with any mechanical keyboard there is some sound but not nearly what blue switches would have. It also depends how you type... do you bottom out your keys? You could add rubber spacers to each key.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01LZXIRXO/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1521373855&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=drevo%2Btkl%2Bkeyboard&dpPl=1&dpID=41JWDmFzquL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

Or you could try searching for membrane keyboards. Btw to help your net searches keyboards that you want with no number pad are called “Tenkeyless” or TKL keyboards. Best of luck!

I just came across your post and I must say I think I've fallen in love with you ! I never thought I'd actually come across post where someone expressed they opinion in a calm and rational manner.

If it's not too much to ask, would you mind giving me a bit of advice ? (I'm looking to pull the trigger on my first mechanical keyboard)

My budget is not very high, about $70, and I've come across this keyboard: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075GHFVTC would you please give me your opinion on it ?
Thank you !

If I understand correctly from your diagram and description maybe the Logitech MK235 https://www.logitech.com/en-ca/product/mk235-wireless-keyboard-mouse or Logitech K375 https://www.logitech.com/en-ca/product/k375s-multidevice-keyboard?crid=27 Both are wireless options. For wired maybe the Rii RK907 https://www.amazon.com/Rii-Ultra-Slim-Compact-Keyboard-Windows/dp/B077P45VND You might want to keep your eyes peeled on the mechanical keyboard market as per the info in this article https://www.howtogeek.com/339502/low-profile-switches-are-coming-to-shrink-your-mechanical-keyboards/ What I would recommend is trying a tall bevelled keyboard with a switch that has the actuation you're looking for (maybe cherry mx silver) while replacing the key-caps for preference. For example https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=3734 There's a ton of keyboards out there I'm sure you'll find your new favorite eventually :)

Looking at your Post i got a few Suggestions.

Amazon has Refurbuished Corsair K70 MK2 SEs for 80 dollars https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RCY89WM/ Not a Fan of Corsair's Non standard bottom row but the SE has PBT keycaps which is a feature not usually found on Cheaper keyboards. Plus real German Cherry Switches.

Red Dragon is the King of budget keyboards but most of their boards are outemu blue switches and most people arent a fan of the loudness however they do carry a full size keyboard with Brown Switches https://www.amazon.com/Redragon-K550-Mechanical-Recording-Passthrough/dp/B00Y7JTJ8E/

Coolermaster has a few keyboards with decent setups with Gateron switches that are 75 dollars atm https://smile.amazon.com/Cooler-Master-Mechanical-Keyboard-Backlighting/dp/B07D9GMYPR

Drevo Is the other budget brand that is popular on Amazon. They are know for their keyboards with unique layouts and features. They have an Outemu switch board option

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FC967M6/?th=1

Other People have already mentioned Tecware Phantom and their Keyboard is a decent option for Outemu Switches.

I think all those 40 dollar RGB keyboards you are seeing is probabaly the same keyboard from China with just different logo slapped onto them. You know the one with the exact same design They should all more or less be the same the only thing I would try to look out for is to make sure they have Outemu switches listed . Outemu is more a less the switch you'll find in most budget keyboards they aren't great but they are decent quality. Gateron, Kailh Box, and Cherry Switches are suppose to be better and more expensive but its debateable. If they don't have Outemu switches listed then they might be using a cheaper chinese switch.

IF you want TKL keyboards I can add a few more options but I think you want a Full Sized RGB keyboard.

I mean, do you want a mechanical or membrane keyboard? I just bought a Razer Cynosa chroma RGB membrane keyboard for $64 dollars on Amazon. Right now it's $44.99. I love this keyboard, it serves me well and doesn't make much noise.

https://www.amazon.com/RAZER-CYNOSA-CHROMA-Spill-Resistant-Individually/dp/B075KMZ4MX/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1543222095&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=razer+cynosa+chroma&dpPl=1&dpID=41l-b-zrpOL&ref=plSrch

If you would like a mechanical keyboard with switches, my friend likes is a rosewill rgb k85 brown switch. I've personally never used one though. This one is about $53 but that may increase to $60 to include shipping

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B075GHFVTC/ref=sspa_mw_detail_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&th=1

Here's a video of me cleaning and putting the whole thing back together. And, yes, it still works.

The two plastic body pieces were soaked for 24 hours before scrubbing it down. The lube used in the video for the plastic contact points as well as the trackball rollers is Finish Line Extreme Fluoro.

A big thanks to my friend /u/jfgorski for the Alphagrip iGrip! Read his opinion on the device right here, he's been using these things for years and has much more insight than I could ever provide.

Using AutoHotkey, you can write a simple script that will give you media keys on any keyboard you want.

The Filco MJ2 is a great keyboard and as long as you're happy with AutoHotkey, it's what I would reccommend.

The most popular red/black switch keyboards that are in my price range and that are actually for sale in my area are:

• Steelseries 6Gv2
  
• CM Storm QuickFire Pro (Red Switch)
  
• Corsair Vengeance K60 (FPS keyboard, I mainly play MMORPG)
  
• CM Storm QuickFire TK
  
  With a quick look, would you think that these are better than the Rocat, if so, which one has your preference?
  

It is a good idea to apply some form of grease after removing and cleaning the key caps. I prefer a simple teflon grease, something like this.

What the difference between what you want and this one? =]

I made my choice :

USA Filco Ninja Majestouch-2, NKR, Tactile Action, Keyboard FKBN104M/EFB2

http://www.amazon.com/Filco-Majestouch-2-Keyboard-FKBN104M-EFB2/product-reviews/B004Z0XR2O/ref=wl_it_o_cm_cr_acr_txt?ie=UTF8&colid=37XZSTQ3XHC5Y&coliid=I2GCAVMUDNQHAI&showViewpoints=1

Not much choice for a french layout so i decide to switch to a Qwerty one. Im sure it won't be long before i adapt completely. Can't wait to receive it !

Just stuff like this https://www.amazon.com/Finish-Line-Extreme-Fluoro-Syringe/dp/B002L5UL92/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?adgrpid=57563159993&dchild=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAn8nuBRCzARIsAJcdIfNPOruNKKQn6_x2lnWydPZhQYU0iGAf611XHL5JNZzrI9QAV-ywZQQaAtgpEALw_wcB&hvadid=274872390383&hvdev=m&hvlocphy=9017492&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=4441170935943728956&hvtargid=kwd-302453330784&hydadcr=12192_10197807&keywords=keyboard+lube&qid=1574086449&sr=8-4 sorry I don’t know how to do blue text

CMStorm also has the quickfire TK or the Pro, depending on what layout you want.

http://www.amazon.com/CM-Storm-QuickFire-TK-Mechanical/dp/B00A378L10/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1374536302&sr=8-1&keywords=quickfire+tk+brown

http://www.amazon.com/CM-Storm-QuickFire-Pro-Mechanical/dp/B007VDOOBU/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1374536337&sr=1-3&keywords=quickfire+brown

Or for something a little more plain, here is a rosewill.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16823201042

Also look into steelseries, I believe they have a model with browns.