Where I’m At

Basically, I know just the very basics. I’ve thought about building a keyboard many times and I have the technical means/knowhow to do such. I know there are very personal things like keystroke length, pressure, etc. that goes into it but I don’t have enough experience typing on keyboards that aren’t garbage to really know what I want. Advice on figuring that out would be really helpful.


As far as things that I know that I need:

  • Backlighting. The lighting in my space is not great and it really helps (for me, since I don’t always have hands on the keyboard) to be able to quickly identify a key. I know this might deduct from the budget a lot, but I’m willing to absorb it because I consider this a must-have. Static color is fine, I don’t need full programmable RGB

  • 100% keyboard. I have the space and use all the keys for games, macros, etc. 6 years ago I got a giant grin on my face when I finally used the scroll lock key for what it’s designed for.

  • Quietness is more important than feel for me. As much as I’d love one of those crazy Model Ms that have the servos for a replica perfect typing feel, I often am on voice chat while doing things so that’s a no go.

  • I can’t do the split ergo thing, as cool as it seems. My brain has been trained to touch type poorly, and there’s no way I’m gonna be able to get away from that.


Budget

If this is possible for $200 or less, that would be great. If someone knows of something prebuilt, or a possible combination of parts that could fit within this budget I’d be very grateful. I can go a little over by piecemealing parts, but sooner rather than later would really be preferred. I’m tired of having either cheap or half broken keyboards.

Thanks

  • stoy
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    2 months ago

    I am a big fan of Ducky, and I’d recommend you to look at their popular One 3, or Shine series.

    I have not used a Shine in many years, but I am daily driving the One 2 series, the One 3 has replacable switches, RGB and a good design.

    As for what switch you should get…

    MX Brown are tactile, so no deliberate click, but just about any mechanical keyboard will make some noise depending on how you type.

    With replacable switches you can get other switches if you find the default not to be to your liking.