Are you looking to buy a new keyboard, maybe even a mechanical one? There are some things you need to consider before making a choice so you wouldn't have any regrets later. Here are some factors you should look into before getting one.
Keyboard Size
You might notice that not all keyboards have the same size and the same number of keys. That's because there are four keyboard layouts to choose from which are full-size, tenkeyless, compact, and ergonomic.
Ergonomic keyboards are not as used as the others. They are split in the middle which allows their user to adjust their hand placement more freely. It can either be partially split or fully split. Fully split ergonomic keyboards are easier to adjust.
Compact keyboards are the most complicated among the rest. The category has subcategories which are 75, 65, 60, and 40 percent. The percentage will depend on which keys have been left out to make the keyboard smaller.
75% means that you still gave function keys and the top row, which is important if you use them often. The 65% will no longer have the function keys and top row, but it will still have the arrow keys, as mentioned in The New York Times.
60% will only provide you with the letters, numbers, and modifiers. These usually come with a function key to switch certain keys' purposes. The 40% will no longer have number keys, which will be trouble for you when you need them.
Tenkeyless keyboards are basically just full-size keyboards without the number pad. It's the ideal choice if you don't use the number pad anyway. You can use the number row on top of the keyboard. You already know what Full-Size keyboards are.
Switches
You'll have to choose between Black, Blue, and Brown. Black switches don't make much noise and you won't feel any bums as you type. You will have to press all the way down for actuation. Actuation is when the keyboard types in what you intend to type.
Blue switches have a slight bump to them, and you'll hear a bit of the clicking sound as you type. It's slightly more sensitive than black switches, so you won't get too tired when you have to work with a lot of typing.
Brown switches are almost the same as the Blue ones when it comes to actuation, but they are quieter. That means you won't hear the satisfying click if that's what you're into. It's the best option if you intend to work quietly or if the clicking sound annoys you.
Keycaps
There are two types of keycaps you can choose from. The ABS or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene is thinner and emits louder clicking sounds. Although they are cheaper, they are also more likely to wear down quickly, which means your keys will become shiny in no time.
On the other hand, PBT or polybutylene terephthalate is thicker and will last longer. It won't sound as high-pitched as the ABS. If you want to customize your keyboard often, you'll need to weigh your options, and if it's worth paying more for something you'll change anyway.
Price
The price will not only depend on the quality of the keyboard. It will also be based on the features that it can provide, so you have to ask yourself if you're willing to pay the price for those. For instance, do you really need a more expensive option because of its lighting?
You should also consider if you're buying one for long-term use. Usually, the ones that cost more last longer. If you're sticking to a budget, you can always buy the mid-range models which can cost more or less $100, according to Make Use Of.
What You Need It For
When you buy items with certain functions, you look at your choices to see which is best suited for your needs. The same goes for mechanical keyboards. This is why you also need to do your research about its parts and functions as well.
For instance, when you're buying your keyboard for gaming, you might want to get one where the switches require you to press harder in order to avoid accidental presses. Maybe you want one that's smaller so you can reach the keys quicker and get your job done faster.
