This page contains KeyChatter’s mechanical keyboard buyer’s guide. It comprises a database of current mechanical keyboard models with key specs, street price, a brief description, and more.
After you’ve picked out a mechanical keyboard, check the Where to Buy page to find the keyboard in stock, or click a link in the “Buy” column to quickly search Amazon or eBay. Use the drop-down boxes to filter the database. Click cells in the header row to sort the database alphabetically.
I strive for complete accuracy in this database, but many keyboards have been manufactured/sold with countless different configurations (keycap type, backlighting type, etc.). Always double-check with the seller if you have any questions about what you’re getting.
- Last updated: 2/18/2015
- Notice something missing or incorrect? Email me.
Mfg. | Model | Type | Description | Price | Buy | Keys | Mount | Switch | Backlit | Wireless |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Acooo | OneBoard PRO+ | Integrated PC | The only mechanical keyboard/computer hybrid. Has the form factor and footprint of a 75% board, but has a quad-core Android computer built in. Nonstandard layout. | $290 | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No | |
Asus | Strix Tactic Pro | 100% | Full-size gaming-oriented board with NKRO over USB and 13 macro keys. Function keys can also be reprogrammed as macro keys. Nonstandard layout. | $150 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Asus | ROG M801 | TKL | Only available as a pack-in with the ROG GR8 gaming PC. Basic gamer-oriented board with red Kailh switches, red backlighting, and NKRO. Appears to be a rebranded Rosewill RGB80. Standard layout. | $999 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh | Yes, 1 color | No |
Asus | Echelon | 100% | A full-size gaming oriented board. Comes with detachable wrist rest. 6KRO over USB or NKRO with included PS2 adapter, requires a second USB cable to power backlighting. Has 2 USB hub ports and headphone/mic jacks. No programmability/macros. Nonstandard layout. | $120 | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No | |
Aziotech | Levetron Clicker | 100% | Cheap and basic full-size board with clicky ALPS clone switches. | $50 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | ALPS | No | No |
Aziotech | Levetron Mech5 | 100% | Full-size gaming board. It's modular; the numpad can be attached/removed and put on either side of the keyboard. Also includes a 6-key detachable macro pad. Included software allows remapping of all keys and programming of 11 macro keys. Has NKRO, volume control knob, and 2 USB ports. Main difference vs. the Mech 4 is that it has a standard layout instead of the Mech 4's Big-Ass enter. | $115 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Aziotech | Levetron Mech4 | 100% | Predecessor to the Mech5. Has the same features but a non-standard layout with a Big-Ass enter. | $110 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Aziotech | MGK1 | 100% | Backlit full size standard board with detachable palm rest, an aluminum top case, adjustable backlighting, volume wheel, and NKRO over USB. | $160 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh | Yes, 1 color | No |
Cherry | MX Board 6.0 | 100% | The MX Board 6.0 is a full-size board produced by Cherry, a company more known for its switches than its keyboards. It features an aluminum top case, MX Reds, and red backlighting (dual LED red/blue on status keys), and a magnetically attached wrist rest. It also has a couple "features" that are more hype than anything else (USB 3.0 and "RealKey" technology. Read more here: http://goo.gl/z2crvu | $219 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
CM Storm | QuickFire XT | 100% | The QuickFire XT is a full-size version of the extremely popular QuickFire Rapid. It is a barebones keyboard, comparable to the Ducky Zero DK2108. Unlike the Pro and Ultimate, it has a standard layout, which means that most replacement keycap sets will fit on it without a problem. | $110 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
CM Storm | Novatouch | TKL | The first-ever keyboard with genuine Topre switches + Cherry MX keycap compatibility. Has the same improved "soft-touch" case found on the QFR-i. There is now one other capacitive keyboard in production with MX-compatible stems: the Noppoo EC108-Pro. However, it is available only as a full-size board and is generally considered to have much lower build quality than the Novatouch. | $175 | Amazon | ABS (but meant to be replaced by user) (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Topre w/ Cherry MX stem | No | No |
CM Storm | QuickFire Rapid-i | TKL | Backlit version of the QuickFire Rapid. Features multiple backlighting modes, including configurable individual key lighting. Has a redesigned "soft-touch" case that's much more durable than earlier QFR models. As of early 2015, Cooler Master is releasing the QFR-Si, a stealth version of the QFR-i with front-illuminated keycaps. Note that it may be very difficult to find aftermarket keycap sets with translucent front-printed legends. | $135 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
CM Storm | QuickFire Pro | 100% | The QuickFire Pro is a full-sized CM Storm board, similar to the XT, but has a nonstanard modifier row and only partial backlighting (on gaming keys only). The Pro can still be found for sale, but has been replaced by the Ultimate. | $110 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
CM Storm | QuickFire Ultimate | 100% | The QuickFire Ultimate is the follow up to the Pro, but is manufactured by the OEM iOne instead of the more well-regarded Costar. Its design is also flashier and more targeted toward gamers, and it features full rather than partial backlighting. Like the Pro, the Ultimate has a nonstandard bottom modifier row, so most replacement keycap sets will not fully cover it. | $110 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
CM Storm | QuickFire TK | Other | The QuickFire TK is an interesting compact board from CM Storm. Rather than using a traditional TKL or 75% form factor, the TK omits the navigation cluster and places a numpad directly next to the alphanumerics. When numlock is off, the numpad doubles as the nav cluster. Note that the modifiers on the QF TK are nonstandard, so many aftermarket keycap sets will not fully cover it. | $100 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
CM Storm | QuickFire Rapid | TKL | A no-frills TKL with a standard layout. Often recommended as a first mechanical keyboard due to high bang-for-buck. Later models removed most CM branding. Sometimes criticized for its rubber coating. Note that PCB is single-sided, which is not as durable for swapping switches as dual-sided PCBs found in Filcos and KULs. Also available as the QuickFire Stealth, which has front-printed keycaps, or as the QuickFire XT, a full-size keyboard. | $90 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Corsair | K95 RGB | 100% | The RGB version of the Vengeance K95. Along with the K70 RGB, the first to feature Cherry's new RGB switches, which can be individually programmed to any color/intensity on the spectrum (over 16 million). If you want a RGB TKL, look at the K65 RGB. | $170 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes (RGB) | No |
Corsair | K70 RGB | 100% | The RGB version of the Vengeance K70. Along with the K95 RGB, the first keyboard to feature Cherry's new RGB switches, which can be individually programmed to any color/intensity on the spectrum (over 16 million). If you want a RGB TKL, look at the K65 RGB. | $190 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes (RGB) | No |
Corsair | Vengeance K65 | TKL | The K65 is marketed toward gamers, with its Red MX switches and high-tech aluminum chassis design. The low case profile shows off the MX switches, unlike most other keyboards. Note that the bottom modifier row is nonstandard, so most replacement keycap sets will not fully cover the K65. This is a shame, since the stock keycaps are low-quality pad printed ABS. | $90 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Corsair | Vengeance K95 | 100% | Like all other Corsair keyboards, the K95 is marketed towards gamers in looks and function. It is an update from the K90, which had Cherry MX alphanumerics but rubber dome over membrane keys for the rest of the board. It features a built-in wrist rest and 18 macro keys on the left side of the keyboard. The K95 is very wide large due to this design. Like the K70, the bottom modifier row is nonstandard, so most replacement keycap sets will not fully cover the K95. It features the same low-profile case design as the K65 and K70. | $150 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Corsair | Vengeance K70 | 100% | The K70 is marketed toward gamers, with its low-profile aluminum chassis. It is an update from the K60, which had Cherry MX alphanumeric keys but rubber dome over membrane keys for the rest of the board. It features a built-in wrist rest and individually controllable key backlighting. The low case profile shows off the MX switches, unlike most other keyboards. Note that the bottom modifier row is nonstandard, so most replacement keycap sets will not fully cover the K70. This is a shame, since the stock keycaps are low-quality pad printed ABS. Available in black, silver, and gunmetal. | $115 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Corsair | K65 RGB | TKL | The first TKL to feature Cherry's new RGB switches, which can be individually programmed to any color/intensity on the spectrum (over 16 million). Has the same layout and case as the Vengeance K65. | $150 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes (RGB) | No |
Cougar | Attack2 | 100% | A very basic standard full-size board. Only notable feature is 8 customizable macro keys. | $85 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Cougar | 600K | 100% | Same as the 700K, but doesn't have programmable keys or backlighting. | $140 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Cougar | 700K | 100% | Full-size gaming keyboard. Has aluminum body, NKRO, repeat rate adjustments, 6 programmable keys, detachable magnetic palm rest, per-key backlighting controls, and a USB hub + audio jacks. Nonstandard layout, left Ctrl/Win/Alt are long and spacebar is short. | $150 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Das Keyboard | 4C | TKL | In January 2015, Das Keyboard released its first tenkeyless board, the Das 4C Compact. It features an aluminum top case and UV hard-coated keycaps (if you opt for the printed version). Unlike previous Das models, does not have authentic Cherry switches. Instead, features Greetech MX-compatible switches. | $140 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: UV printed) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Greetech | No | No |
Das Keyboard | Das Keyboard 4 | 100% | This is the newest iteration of the Das Keyboard, a brand that has been around since 2005. Das's original brand distinction was offering blank keycaps when they weren't available anywhere else. Although blank keycaps are more common now, the brand has stuck around. The Das 4 features a complete case redesign, plus a USB 3.0 hub, dedicated media controls and a volume knob. Das Keyboards are sometimes criticized for their shiny, fingerprint-attracting cases. The Professional has keycap printing; the Ultimate does not. | $170 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Das Keyboard | Model S Pro / Ultimate | 100% | The Model S was Das's main model before the Das 4 came out. It has a bulkier case and none of the dedicate media controls of the Das 4. While it also has a USB hub, it supports only the 2.0 protocol, not 3.0. The Professional has keycap printing; the Ultimate does not. | $140 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Deck | Francium | TKL | A cheaper version of the Francium Pro. Has doubleshot ABS caps instead of PBT, a plastic case instead of aluminum (?), and fewer backlighting modes. Other features are the same. Appears to have very limited availability. | $999 | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No | |
Deck | Hassium Pro 108 | 100% | The Hassium is a high-end full-size board from Deck. It offers a programmable layer, N-kro, rare doubleshot PBT keycaps, several LED modes, and a full metal case. Available in TKL format as the Francium. | $180 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Doubleshot) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Deck | Francium Pro 87 | TKL | The Francium is a high-end TKL board from Deck. It offers a programmable layer, NKRO, rare doubleshot PBT keycaps, several LED modes, and a full metal case. Available in full-size format as the Hassium. | $165 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Doubleshot) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Deck | 82 | 75% | A consumer-branded TG3 BL-82, a.k.a. the cop car keyboard. A basic 75% board with backlighting. Nonstandard layout. | $155 | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No | |
Dell | AT-101W (used) | 100% | The AT-101W is one of the most readily available used ALPS boards. Its black tactile ALPS do not always age gracefully, but it is a cheap way to try an ALPS board. Comes in beige or black. Unless your computer has a PS2 port, you'll need a PS2 --> USB active converter, such as the Ziotek Blue Cube. | $30 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | ALPS | No | No |
DIY / Boutique | Atreus | Ergonomic | A portable ergonomic keyboard not much bigger than a 40%. Uses an angled, staggered columnar layout. Available as a DIY kit or assembled. | $149+ | PBT (Legends: Blank) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No | |
DIY / Boutique | Axios (aka Nexus) | Ergonomic | Resembles the ErgoDox, but has a slightly different layout, redesigned thumb cluster, hinged function keys, and tenting mechanism. Not yet available for sale. | $999 | N/A | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No | |
DIY / Boutique | Diverge | Ergonomic | Another ErgoDox-inspired keyboard. Has a simplified thumb cluster. Not yet available for sale. | $999 | PBT, OEM or DSA profile | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No | |
DIY / Boutique | Terminus Mini | 40% | Size of the JD40, but has matrix instead of staggered layout. A 60% version, the Terminus, is coming in March-April 2015. | $89+ | N/A | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No | |
DIY / Boutique | Infinity | 60% | A do-it-yourself 60% kit developed by Massdrop & others. Available in 2 layouts: "Hacker" (nonstandard w/ 6x spacebar and HHKB-style Fn key) and standard. Compatible with Cherry or ALPS switches. | $99 | PBT (Legends: Blank) | Plate | Cherry MX or ALPS | No | No | |
DIY / Boutique | Lepton | 60% | Technically the Lepton is closer to 70%. It's a matrix-style keyboard like the Atomic/Planck. Comes as a kit, and has an LCD screen that displays information about current layer/macro/programmed keys, etc. Also available as a 5x5 keypad. Assembly is available. Note that it has an extremely basic case. | $100+ | PBT (Legends: Dyesub) | PCB | Cherry MX | No | No | |
DIY / Boutique | Terminus | 60% | A matrix-style 60% (a 60% version of the Terminus Mini). Available in March-April 2015. | $999 | N/A | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No | |
Do-it-yourself / Boutique | ErgoDox | Ergonomic | The ErgoDox is a community-designed ergonomic keyboard. It uses Cherry MX switches, and comprises two mirror-image halves that can be rearranged any way you'd like. Sold as a kit, most commonly through Massdrop. Assembly required, including SMD soldering. But fear not, with a little practice on an old VCR first, you too can build your own ErgoDox! Usually sold with an acrylic case & optional acrylic plate. | $200+ | Amazon | PBT (Legends: None) | Plate | Cherry MX | Optional | No |
Do-it-yourself / Boutique | Infinity Keyboard Kit | Other | The Infinity is a fully programmable 60% board, designed by Massdrop. It uses Haata's controller and is compatible with both Cherry MX and ALPS switches. Comes in two layouts: Hacker and Standard. Compatible with aftermarket Poker cases, or can be ordered with a metal plate case. Only available through Massdrop and requires assembly with a soldering iron. Programmable using a "configurator" tool on Massdrop's website. | $145+ | Amazon | Can be ordered with blank black Signature Plastics DSA PBT keycaps, optional (Legends: N/A) | Plate | Cherry MX or ALPS | No | No |
Do-it-yourself / Boutique | JD40 | Other | The JD40 is a miniature 40% keyboard designed by jdcarpe and regack on GeekHack. It is one of only two 40% keyboards that has been produced in any significant quantity, the other being the Planck Keyboard. It is currently available for sale through the CtrlAltStore. An optional backlighting module may be released in the future. | $42+ | Amazon | N/A (Legends: N/A) | Plate | Cherry MX | Optional | No |
Do-it-yourself / Boutique | JD45 | Other | The JD45 is a miniature 45% keyboard designed by jdcarpe of Carpe Keyboards. It has the same physical dimensions of the JD40, but features more, smaller switch cutouts in place of a standard 6.25x spacebar, resulting in a more efficient use of space and a more functional mini keyboard. Unlike the JD40, it also supports backlighting and ALPS switches. Not yet available for purchase as of Jan. 2015. Pricing TBD. | $999 | Amazon | N/A (Legends: N/A) | Plate | Cherry MX or ALPS | Optional | No |
Do-it-yourself / Boutique | [CTRL] ALT 60 | Other | A custom 60% featuring a fully-programmable PCB and CNC-cut aluminum case. Supports most popular layouts. | $50+ | Amazon | N/A (Legends: N/A) | Case-mounted | Cherry MX | Optional | No |
Do-it-yourself / Boutique | Planck Keyboard | Ergonomic | The Planck is an ortholinear (matrix-style) 40% keyboard designed by Jack Humbert. Currently, parts can be purchased at http://ortholinearkeyboards.com/. However, no PCB has been released, and therefore all Planck keyboards must be handwired. Also available in 60% as the Atomic Keyboard. | $100+ | Amazon | N/A (Legends: N/A) | Plate | Cherry MX or ALPS | Optional | No |
Do-it-yourself / Boutique | Atomic Keyboard | Ergonomic | The Atomic is an ortholinear (matrix-style) 60% keyboard designed by Jack Humbert. Currently, parts can be purchased at http://ortholinearkeyboards.com/. However, no PCB has been released, and therefore all Atomic keyboards must be handwired. Also available in 40% as the Planck Keyboard. | $100+ | Amazon | N/A (Legends: N/A) | Plate | Cherry MX or ALPS | Optional | No |
DSI | KB DCK LH104 V2 | Left-handed 100% | A left-handed full-size keyboard. Navigation cluster and numpad are placed to the left of the alpha section. DSI is the only remotely mainstream brand producing left handed mechanical keyboards. | $95 | ABS (Legends: Unknown) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No | |
Ducky | Zero Shine DK2087S | TKL | The TKL version of the Zero Shine DK2108S. Same as the Zero DK2087, but adds basic backlighting. The difference between this and the Shine 3/4 TKL is that the latter come with many more backlighting modes. Note that all Ducky Zero models have non-detachable USB cables. | $115 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Ducky | Zero DK2108L | 100% | Similar to the DK2108 but has foreign legends and a nonstandard L-shaped enter key. Note that all Ducky Zero models have non-detachable USB cables. | $100 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Ducky | Zero Shine DK2108S | 100% | This model is the same as the DK2108, but adds basic backlighting. The difference between this and the Shine 3/4 is that the latter models come with many more backlighting modes. Note that all Ducky Zero models have non-detachable USB cables. | $115 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Ducky | Zero Shine DK2108SZ | 100% | Similar to the DK2108S, but adds 3-zone backlighting. Though, does not include the full range of backlighting options found on the Shine 3/4. | $120 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Ducky | Legend | 100% | The Ducky Legend is distinguished by a 5mm thick aluminum top case. It features full backlighting plus a few special modes, but does not have the full range of modes found on the Shine 3 and 4. | $150 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser engraved) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Ducky | Mini | 60% | The Ducky Mini is a low-profile 60% with two-color backlighting (like the KBParadise V60), programmability, Fn key relocation, mouse control keys on the function layer, and an aluminum top case. Comes in several styles, including silver, gray, and Year of the Horse, which has a full aluminum case and a special edition spacebar. | $119 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 2 colors | No |
Ducky | Premier DK9008P | 100% | This model is targeted toward "typing purists." It has no backlighting, but it offers thick PBT caps with dyesub legends and attractive color schemes. Available with black/gray caps, cream cheese and green, or yellow and black. Difficult to find for sale, most likely is out of production. | $130 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Dyesub) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Ducky | Shine 3 DK9008S3 | 100% | The Shine 3 is not a part of Ducky's Zero budget line. Instead, it's Ducky's previous generation (2013) flagship backlit full-size board. It distinguishes itself by offering a large range of backlighting modes, such as wave marquee, reactive, ripple, and more. it also has a removable cable, DIP switches for extra settings, and more. Adds new lighting modes and repeat key functionality to the Shine 2 DK9008S2. Replaced by the Shine 4 in 2014. | $130 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Ducky | Shine 3 DK9087S3 | TKL | The TKL version of the Shine 3 DK9008S3. This board is not a part of Ducky's Zero budget line. Instead, it's Ducky's top-of-the-line backlit TKL board. It distinguishes itself by offering a large range of backlighting modes, such as wave marquee, reactive, ripple, and more. it also has a removable cable, DIP switches for extra settings, and more. Adds new lighting modes and repeat key functionality to the Shine 2 DK9087S2. In 2014, Ducky released a Shine 4 to replace the Shine 3, but so far it is only available in full-size, not TKL format, leaving the Shine 3 as Ducky's flagship TKL. | $130 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Ducky | Shine 4 69 Fire Limited Edition | 100% | The Shine 4 69 Fire Edition is a wacky variant of the Shine 4, with 9 different types of Cherry MX switches spread around the board (Tactile Gray, Linear Gray, White, Clear, Green, Red, Black, Brown, Blue). Each switch section also has a different 2-color backlighting combo. This keyboard has a similar concept to the Shine 2 78, a special edition of the Shine II that's now discontinued. | $170 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 2 colors | No |
Ducky | Shine 4 DKSH1408 SD | 100% | The Shine 4 is Ducky's newest flagship model. It includes all the functionality of the Shine 3, but adds dual-color LEDs, a redesigned case, some new LED modes, and removable feet to the mix. Ducky has not yet announced a TKL version of the Shine 4. | $150 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 2 colors | No |
Ducky | Zero DK2087 | TKL | The Zero DK2087 is Ducky's cheapest TKL keyboard. It's about as basic as a mechanical keyboard can get, but the price is right, and the board has Ducky's good build quality. Probably on par with a Filco in terms of build quality. PCB is dual-sided, making it easier to solder on for modifications. Note that all Ducky Zero models have non-detachable USB cables. | $100 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Ducky | Zero DK2108 | 100% | The Zero DK2108 is Ducky's cheapest full-size keyboard. It's about as basic as a mechanical keyboard can get, but the price is right. Probably on par with a Filco in terms of build quality. PCB is dual-sided, making it easier to solder on for modifications. Note that all Ducky Zero models have non-detachable USB cables. | $100 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
ErgoDox EZ | ErgoDox EZ | Ergonomic | An IndieGogo initiative to mass-produce the ErgoDox. Designed to appeal to people who don't want to build their own, and/or want a full factory warranty. $190 is early bird special price. | $190 | PBT (Legends: Blank) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No | |
Esrille | New Keyboard | Ergonomic | An angled, tented, 1-piece ergonomic keyboard made in Japan. Supports a variety of English and Japanese logical key layouts. One of the very few 1-piece ergonomic keyboards suitable for lap use and traveling. | $500 | Unknown | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No | |
Feenix | Autore | 100% | A full-size MX Brown-only board with a focus on elegant & minimal design. Features are basic. Every buyer gets a "personally assigned support manager." | $163 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Filco | Majestouch Convertible 2 | 100% | The MJ2 convertible is a USB and Bluetooth version of the MJ2. Supports up to 4 simultaneous connections. Only available in 104-key no Bluetooth MJ2 TKL has been released. Does not appear to have been imported to USA in significant quantities. | $135 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | Yes |
Filco | FKB22MB | Numpad | Filco's basic tenkeypad. Meant to be paired with a Filco Majestouch 2 TKL. Has MX Brown switches. Sends correct numpad scan codes, unlike some Leopold numpads. | $50 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Filco | Majestouch 2 TKL | TKL | A no-frills TKL like the QFR; however, the Filco has a reputation for being much more solidly built. "Filco quality" is a benchmark to which enthusiasts often compare other keyboards. Has a dual-sided PCB, unlike the QFR. Also available as a "ninja" model, with front-printed keycaps. The pad printed stock keycaps are its one major weakness. Difficult to find in the USA due to distribution issues. Does NOT have a detachable USB cable. | $140 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Filco | Majestouch 2 104-key | 100% | The full-size version of the Majestouch 2 TKL. Frequently praised for its build quality -- "Filco quality" is a benchmark to which enthusiasts often compare other keyboards. Also available as a "ninja" model, with front-printed keycaps. The pad printed stock keycaps are one notable weakness. Difficult to find in the USA due to distribution issues. Does NOT have a detachable USB cable. | $150 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Filco | Minila / Minila Air | 60% | Filco's Minila is a unique 60%. It has dedicated arrow keys, plus a short space bar with two extra Fn keys on the bottom row. The Fn keys are designed to allow you to access all needed keys without moving your hands, if you so desire. It also comes as the Minila Air, which has a wireless Bluetooth chip -- making the Minila Air the only wireless 60% on the market today. Build quality is very good. Keycaps are all but impossible to replace. Unlike the larger Majestouch 2 and Majestouch 2 TKL, the Minila does have a detachable USB cable -- or in the case of the Minila Air, no cable at all. | $140 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | Yes |
Func | KB-460 | 100% | FUNC's only mechanical keyboard. Features a USB hub with two ports, media controls, a detachable palm rest, and NKRO. Available in several logical layouts. Key layout is nonstandard. | $120 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Gigabyte | Aivia Osmium | 100% | A gamer-centric full-size board. Features 64KRO, programmable macro keys, volume and backlight control, a removable wrist wrest, and a USB 3.0 pass-through port | $120 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Goldtouch | Go!2 Wireless | Ergonomic | a hinged/split tentable ergonomic keyboard. Uses rubber domes, not mechanial switches. | $119.00 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | N/A | Rubber dome | No | Yes |
Goldtouch | V2 | Ergonomic | A hinged/split tentable ergonomic keyboard. Uses rubber domes, not mechanial switches. | $95 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | N/A | Rubber dome | No | No |
IBM | Model M (used) | 100% | The Model M is the classic mechanical keyboard. Very plentiful and cheap on eBay--even cheaper than getting a new buckling spring keyboard from Unicomp. Unless your computer has a PS2 port, you'll need a PS2 --> USB active converter, such as the Ziotek Blue Cube. Do not purchase a terminal Model M or you won't be able to connect it to your computer without soldering in a replacement controller. | $40 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Dyesub) | Plate | Buckling spring | No | No |
KBParadise | V60 | 60% | The V60 is KBParadise's response to the Poker II. It has the same, standard layout, but a different, arguably improved function layer. All models have backlighting -- 2 colors that you can switch between. Includes spare keycaps for all possible DIP switch settings. Compatible with Poker II cases/trays. Unlike the Poker II, does NOT have a programmable layer. | $115 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 2 colors | No |
KBParadise | V80 | TKL | KBParadise's standard TKL model. Features dual color backlighting, several LED modes, and N-KRO. | $135 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 2 colors | No |
KBParadise | V60 MTS | 60% | The V60 MTS is a V60 variant that uses Matias ALPS switches, the first 60% to do so. Comes in clicky and quiet models, and a third version with the new Matias linear switches is expected in 2015. | $120 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | ALPS | No | No |
Keyboardio | Model 01 | Ergonomic | Keyboardio's first board, which is expected to go on sale on Kickstarter in 2015. Features a split, asdjustable design with custom-profiled keycaps, ALPS switches, and RGB backlighting. Highly hackable for anyone confortable with Arduino C. | $999 | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | ALPS | Yes (RGB) | No | |
Keycool | 84 | 75% | The Keycool 84 has a slightly different layout than either the Race II or Choc Mini. Most importantly, it has a standard 6.25x spacebar which can be easily replaced. However, its layout is also nonstandard and, like the Race II and Choc Mini, cannot be coverd by a standard Filco-layout replacement cap set. Like the Race II, has a more logical rightmost column than the Choc Mini. Available in white, black, or gray. No longer being produced (replaced by the 84 II, but can still sometimes be found for sale. | $95+ | Amazon | ABS, PBT, or POM depending on color and backlighting. Check before purchasing. (Legends: Laser engraved (POM and PBT), translucent (ABS)) | Plate | Cherry MX | Optional | No |
Keycool | Hero 84 | 75% | The Keycool Hero appears to be the same keyboard as the Keycool 84 II, with a new name. Can be found with no backlighting, with 1 color, or with "banks" of different colors (not RGB). Keycaps may vary; double check when purchasing. | $93 | Amazon | PBT on non-backlit models, ABS on backlit models (Legends: Laser engraved (PBT), translucent (ABS)) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh | Optional | No |
Keycool | 87 | TKL | The Keycool 87 is a middle-of-the-road TKL with a standard layout. Both backlit and non-backlit versions are available, and keycaps vary depending on the configuration. Available in white, black, or gray. No longer being produced (replaced by the 87 II, but can still sometimes be found for sale. | $95+ | Amazon | ABS, PBT, or POM depending on color and backlighting. Check before purchasing. (Legends: Laser engraved (POM and PBT), translucent (ABS)) | Plate | Cherry MX | Optional | No |
Keycool | 84 II | 75% | The second revision of the Keycool 84 has Kailh switches rather than genuine Cherry switches, but keeps the same layout as the original model. Has upgrades to backlighting, including purple and pink color options, new lighting patterns & memory, and so on. Note that keycaps are fully interchangeable with Cherry MX. Available in black or white, backlit or non. May not be fully compatible with Macs. | $95+ | Amazon | PBT on non-backlit models, ABS on backlit models (Legends: Laser engraved (PBT), translucent (ABS)) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh | Optional | No |
Keycool | 87 II | TKL | The second revision of the Keycool 87 has Kailh switches rather than genuine Cherry switches, but keeps the same layout as the original model. Note that keycaps are fully interchangeable with Cherry MX. Available in black, gray, or white. So far, only a black backlit version has been sold in the USA. | $120 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh | Yes, 1 color | No |
Kinesis | Advantage | Ergonomic | The Advantage is a super-wacky ergonomic keyboard. Its thumb clusters inspired those on the ErgoDox. Not a very common keyboard, but may be of interest to keyboardists with RSI or similar conditions. Has a plastic plate. | $300 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Kinesis | Freestyle2 Blue | Ergonomic | Same keyboard as the Freestyle2, but has Bluetooth wireless capability. Has a rechargeable internal battery and "multichannel" support to switch between your PC, phone, etc. with the press of a button. | $110 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | N/A | Rubber dome | No | Yes |
Kinesis | Freestyle2 | Ergonomic | The Freestyle2 isn't a mechanical keyboard, but it's got some of the nicest rubber domes ever. It's a split ergonomic keyboard designed to reduce typing strain. Available in PC or Mac variants (both legends and function keys are different). If you want to tent (slope) the keyboard, you'll need a VIP3 (with palm rests) or V3 (without palm rests) kit. | $90 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | N/A | Rubber dome | No | No |
KUL | ES-87 | TKL | The ES-87 is KUL's first keyboard, released to very positive reception in 2014. Whereas Filco was previously considered to be the highest quality TKL commercially available, many enthusiasts believe the ES-87 is equally or better built. Distinguished itself upon launch by offering MX Clear switches, although since its launch, many more manufacturers have started to offer MX Clear switches in their boards. | $130 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Leopold | FC660C | 60% | 45g Topre version of the FC660M. The FC660C is a 60% Topre board with dedicated arrow keys. Excellent build quality. 2nd and 3rd generation FC660Cs (with dyesub caps) feel similar to 55g Realforce boards. Realforce keycaps have the same profile as the Leopold's caps, but it uses two left shifts and 1.25x mods, making it difficult to source a full set of replacement keycaps. This problem has been somewhat mitigated by the release of gray and white dyesub models, providing buyers more keycap options at the time of purchase. | $190+ | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Pad printed (original), dyesub (2nd and 3rd generations)) | Plate | Topre | No | No |
Leopold | FC660M | 60% | The Cherry MX version of the FC660C. A 60% with dedicated arrow keys. Very good build quality. Has a nonstandard layout, and nonstandard stabilizer spacing on the spacebar. Difficult to source replacement keycaps for these reasons. Case comes in a variety of colors. | $110+ | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Pad printed (original), dyesub (2nd generation)) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Leopold | FC200R | TKL | The FC200R is a basic TKL from Leopold. In the same class as a QFR. Available in full-size as the FC500R. Has Cherry rather than Costar stabilizers. Has been replaced by the FC700R and FC750R. Has a standard layout, but non-standard stem placement on the spacebar. This means that most replacement keycap sets will fit the FC200R except the spacebar. | $100 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser engraved) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Leopold | FC900R | 100% | A full-size board from Leopold that comes in several different configurations. Can be purchased with or without backlighting. Keycaps may be top or front printed thick PBT, doubleshot ABS, or doubleshot translucent ABS. Basically a full-size FC750R with more keycap options and a backlighting option. Priced around $115 but only available to USA by import, and shipping brings price up to around $145. | $145 | Amazon | PBT or doubleshot ABS (Legends: Doubleshot, printed, or translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Optional | No |
Leopold | FC700R | TKL | A later version of the FC200R. Has a slightly different case design and PBT keycaps instead of ABS. Available in white, black, and graphite. Has been replaced by the FC750R. Has proprietary Leopold spacebar stem spacing, so normal spacebars will not fit on it. | $125 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Leopold | FC500R | 100% | The full-size version of the FC200R. Has Cherry rather than Costar stabilizers. Has a standard layout, but non-standard stem placement on the spacebar. This means that most replacement keycap sets will fit the FC500R except the spacebar. | $110 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser engraved) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Leopold | FC750R | TKL | A later version of the FC700R. Adds thicker PBT keycaps with a Cherry-like profile called StepSculpture2 and sound-absorbing material in the case. Keycaps are also offered with a "ninja" option -- blank on top and legends lasered on the front, as well as fully blank. Available in black and navy blue. Unlike previous Leopold models, has normal/standard stem spacing on the spacebar, and will accept all standard 6.25x spacebars. | $150 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Laser etched or none) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Logitech | G910 Orion Spark | 100% | The Orion Spark is a gamer-oriented board. It's the first board to have "Romer-G" switches, a proprietary short-throw, tactile switch from Logitech that is claimed to result in faster keypresses. Features contoured keycaps (not MX compatible), 9 programmable macro keys, a smart dock and software to interface with your mobile device to display game information, and full RGB backlighting. | $180 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Romer-G | Yes (RGB) | No |
Logitech | G710+ | 100% | Marketed toward gamers, and is commonly found as a display model at Best Buy alongside the Razer BlackWidow Ultimate. Has six programmable macro keys. Also one of the only stock keyboards to come with o-rings preinstalled to dampen keystrokes. | $130 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Matias | Tactile One | 100% | The Tactile One is a full-size board with clicky Matias ALPS. Its key feature is iPhone compatibility. Instead of a nav cluster, it has an iPhone dock, so you can place your iPhone directly on the keyboard and switch between typing on it and your computer. Its Bluetooth connection can also be used with many Android devices, but compatibility isn't guaranteed. | $199 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | ALPS | No | Yes |
Matias | Ergo Pro | Ergonomic | The Ergo Pro is an upcoming ergonomic keyboard from Matias. Like the ErgoDox, comprises two halves. Includes a wrist rest and tenting mechanisms, unlike the ErgoDox. Has an innovative navigation cluster. Expected to ship Feb 2015. | $200 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: UV printed) | Plate | ALPS | No | No |
Matias | Tactile Pro | 100% | Matias's clicky full-size ALPS-compatible board. The only high quality tactile ALPS full-size board currently on the market. TKL "Mini" version also available. | $125 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | ALPS | No | No |
Matias | Mini Quiet Pro | TKL | Matias's tactile TKL ALPS-compatible board. Features dampened switches and claims to be the quietest mechanical keyboard available. Full-size version also available. | $125 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | ALPS | No | No |
Matias | Mini Tactile Pro | TKL | Matias's clicky TKL ALPS-compatible board. The Mini Tactile Pro is the only reputable clicky ALPS TKL on the market. Full-size version also available. | $125 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | ALPS | No | No |
Matias | Quiet Pro | 100% | Matias's tactile full-size ALPS-compatible board. The only high quality tactile ALPS full-size board currently on the market. Features dampened switches and claims to be the quietest mechanical keyboard available. TKL "Mini" version also available. | $125 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | ALPS | No | No |
Matias | Laptop Pro | TKL | A wireless Bluetooth version of the Mini Quiet Pro. | $135 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | ALPS | No | Yes |
Matias | Secure Pro | TKL | A wireless version of the Mini Quiet Pro, but instead of Bluetooth, uses a proprietary encrypted USB dongle to prevent your keystrokes from being wirelessly intercepted. | $135 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | ALPS | No | Yes |
Monoprice | Mechanical Gaming Keyboard 109433 (MP-M10B) | 100% | The Monoprice 109433 is as basic as it gets, and is notable for one reason only -- its low price. If you want a full size Chery keyboard on a budget, it's an option. Note that it has a nonstandard layout. Build quality is lesser than many of the more popular brands. The QuickFire XT may be a better choice for only slightly more money. The Monoprice becomes more attractive if you can find it used for ~$40. | $60 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Noppoo | Choc Mid | TKL | A basic, compact tenkeyless board from Noppoo. Appears to have been replaced by the Noppoo Lolita and Lolita Spyder. May have compatibility issues with Macs. | $90 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Noppoo | Lolita | TKL | A newer version of the Choc Mid that uses Kailh switches instead of original Cherry and offers a backlit version. Backlit version has several different modes, much like backlit Ducky models. Limited to 6kro on Macs. | $90+ | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed (non-backlit), translucent (backlit)) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh | Optional | No |
Noppoo | Choc Mini | 75% | Like the Race II, the Choc Mini is a 75% compact board. Earlier models have 1.5x modifiers, while later models have 1.25x modifiers. Earlier models have nondetachable cable, some later models have detachable cable -- double check before buying if this is important to you. The Choc Mini has a slightly different layout than the Race II -- slightly more normal with 1x arrow keys, but still nonstandard (most notably its 5.5x spacebar, for which no aftermarket replacements exist). Features NKRO over USB by emulating multiple USB hubs. Notorious for OSX compatibility problems due to this implementation. Available in white or black. | $95+ | Amazon | POM, ABS, or PBT depending on color, production date, and backlighting. Check before purchasing. (Legends: Laser engraved (POM and PBT), translucent (ABS)) | Plate | Cherry MX | Optional | No |
Noppoo | Choc Mini-2M | 75% | The Choc Mini 2M has the features of later models (1.25x mods, detachable cable), but adds wireless capability through proprietary USB dongle. Retains a USB port as well. Available only in black. | $130+ | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent on both non-backlit and backlit) | Plate | Cherry MX | Optional | Yes |
Noppoo | EC108-Pro | 100% | The EC108-Pro is the second Topre clone with MX-compatible stems, the first being the CM Novatouch. Unlike the Novatouch, which has genuine Topre parts, the Noppoo has knock-off clones. Available in 45g-uniform and 35g-uniform weighting. No TKL version has been announced. Has received less-than-favorable reviews from enthusiasts. | $150 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Topre w/ Cherry MX stem | No | No |
Noppoo | Lolita Spyder | TKL | Features a low-profile case that gives the appearance of "floating" switches. Limited to 6kro on Macs. | $80 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh | No | No |
PFU | Happy Hacking Keyboard Pro 2 Type S | 60% | Same as the HHKB Pro 2, but has silencing pads installed to dampen the upstroke "click." Makes typing quieter. | $325 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Dyesub) | Case-mounted | Topre | No | No |
PFU | Happy Hacking Keyboard Pro 2 | 60% | Often touted as the ultimate keyboard, the HHKB Pro 2 is an acquired taste. While it lacks dedicated arrow keys, it has a full navigation cluster accessible through the well-placed Fn layer, which makes right-handed chording easy. Many users believe that the HHKB's function layer is superior to all other designs. Often praised for its minimalistic and symmetrical layout, and lively case-mounted switches. Has two USB pass-through ports, but supplies very minimal current and these ports are often useless in practice. Very popular among coders who use emacs/vim due to placement of control and ESC keys. 45g weighting. | $235 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Dyesub) | Case-mounted | Topre | No | No |
Plum | MX96 | Other | The Plum 96 has the same layout as the QuickFire TK; a numpad directly next to the alphanumerics. Unlike the QF TK, though, the alphanumerics are all standard -- however, the numpad, with its 1x 0 and 00 keys, is not. | $100 | Amazon | POM (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Razer | Black Widow Ultimate 2013 | 100% | This was Razer's last Ultimate with genuine Cherry MX switches. A full-size keyboard marketed toward gamers, featuring a number of macro keys that can only be configured using Razer Synapse software. Often criticized for build quality (OEM is iOne), and marketing slant, but has a large following in the gaming community. | $135 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Razer | Black Widow Chroma | 100% | The Chroma is a full-size board featuring Razer___s Green switch, a copy of Cherry___s clicky and tactile MX Blue. A model with Razer Orange switches (MX Brown copies), the Chroma Stealth, will also be available in January 2015. The Chroma features full RGB support, with 16.8 million colors of per-key configurable backlighting. This is a significant improvement over competitors such as the Tesoro Lobera Supreme and Rosewill RGB80 __? those boards also feature Kailh-made RGB switches, but they only allow one color at a time for the entire board. To emphasize, the switches in the Chroma are Razer RGB, not original Cherry RGB as found in the Corsair RGB boards. However, their functionality is largely the same. | $165 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Razer RGB | Yes (RGB) | No |
Razer | Black Widow Ultimate 2014 | 100% | This is Razer's current model, the follow-up to the BlackWidow Ultimate 2013. Features Kailh-made Razer switches instead of geniune Cherry. Has been criticized for this transition, but not much data are available on long-term performance of Kailh switches. Usually on display at Best Buy. | $135 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Razer | Yes, 1 color | No |
Rosewill | RGB80 | TKL | The RGB80 is Rosewill's first board with Kailh RGB switches, and the only RGB tenkeyless that has been released or announced. Note that unlike Cherry RGB switches, which can be configured on a per-key basis, Kailh RGB switches can only be configured on a per-keyboard basis. You can pick any of 16.8 million colors, but the entire keyboard will use that color. | $110 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh | Yes (RGB) | No |
Rosewill | Striker RK-6000 | 100% | The RK-6000 is dirt-cheap. With a street price of about $40, it's the cheapest new keyboard in the KeyChatter.com Keyboard Database. Uses cheap ALPS copies (not Matias switches). | $40 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | ALPS | No | No |
Rosewill | RK-9000V2 | 100% | The RK-9000 is in the same class as the Monoprice 109433 -- a very cheap full-size Cherry board. (Unlike the RK-6000, this is not an ALPS board.) Build quality is likely to be unremarkable. Best to purchase used for ~$40 if possible. | $80 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Tesoro | Lobera Supreme | 100% | The Lobera Supreme is Tesoro's first board with Kailh RGB switches. Note that unlike Cherry RGB and Razer RGB switches, which can be configured on a per-key basis, Kailh RGB switches can only be configured on a per-keyboard basis. You can pick any of 16.8 million colors, but the entire keyboard will use that color. | $140 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh RGB | Yes (RGB) | No |
Tex | Yoda | 60% | The TEX Yoda is the only commercially available mini keyboard to feature an IBM-style trackpoint. Has a standard layout, but 3rd party G, H, and B keys must be modified to fit around the trackpoint stick. | $200 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Tex | Beetle | 60% | Has dedicated arrow keys, a short spacebar to allow for extra modifier keys on the bottom row, and an aluminum case. Very nonstandard layout. | $140 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser engraved) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Thermaltake | Poseidon Illuminated | 100% | A basic, backlit full-size board with multimedia controls. Has four levels of brightness. USB cable is not detachable. | $100 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Thermaltake | Poseidon Z Illuminated | 100% | A basic, backlit full-size board with multimedia controls. Has four levels of brightness. $10 cheaper than the Poseidon Illuminated due to using Kailh switches instead of Cherry. USB cable is not detachable. | $90 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh | Yes, 1 color | No |
Thermaltake | Poseidon Z Forged | 100% | A backlit full-size board with multimedia controls with an aluminum top case. Has multiple levels of brightness and some lighting effects/zones. Has 10 programmable macro keys, an on-board DAC, and extra USB ports. Has a detachable wrist rest. USB cable is detachable. | $140 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh | Yes, 1 color | No |
Thermaltake | Poseidon ZX Illuminated | TKL | A basic, backlit TKL with multimedia controls. Has four levels of brightness. TKL version of the Poseidon Z Illuminated. | $80 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh | Yes, 1 color | No |
Topre | Realforce 87u | TKL | Topre's standard TKL. Options include 45g, 55g, or variable switches, a black or white color scheme, and silencing. Note that not every possible combination is readily available at retail. | $199+ | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Dyesub) | Plate | Topre | No | No |
Topre | Realforce 104UK Hi-Pro | 100% | Same as the 104UG Hi-Pro but white. So far, only available to USA by import; not carried by any USA retailers. | $340 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Dyesub) | Plate | Topre | No | No |
Topre | Realforce 104U | 100% | Topre's standard full-size board. In the USA, usually sold only with variable weighting. Unlike the 87u TKL, no silent option is available. Comes in black and white. | $210 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Dyesub) | Plate | Topre | No | No |
Topre | Realforce 104UB-DK | 100% | Similar to the 104U, but comes with a special keycap color scheme. Distributed by Ducky in Taiwan, difficult to find in the USA. | $215 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Dyesub) | Plate | Topre | No | No |
Topre | Realforce 104UG Hi-Pro | 100% | Similar to the 104U, but comes with special high-profile, spherical keycaps. | $290 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Dyesub) | Plate | Topre | No | No |
Topre | Type Heaven | 100% | Topre's budget full-size board. Unlike the 104U, comes with uniform 45g weighting. Has cheaper ABS keycaps and is sometimes criticized for its build quality, but can be had very cheap, especially used. | $130 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser etched) | Plate | Topre | No | No |
Truly Ergonomic | Model 229 | Ergonomic | Same as the Model 227 but splits the "Alt" keys into two smaller keys. | $250 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser engraved) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh | No | No |
Truly Ergonomic | Model 227 | Ergonomic | A split ergonomic keyboard with columnar (non-staggered) keys, intended to reduce typing stress and mitigate the possibility of RSI and similar conditions. Has a removable cushioned palmrest, NKRO, multimedia keys, and is fully programmable for custom key layouts. | $250 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Laser engraved) | Plate | Cherry MX Compatible--Kailh | No | No |
Unicomp | Classic 101 or similar | 100% | Unicomp is the only company that still makes buckling spring keyboards. If you want a new buckling spring board with native USB, or you want Windows keys, go for a Unicomp instead of an IBM. The build quality is reasonably close to the originals, and Unicomp boards have less ping than old IBM boards. However, if you are on a tight budget, you can get a used Model M on eBay for about half the price of a new Unicomp. That said, Unicomp's pricing is extremely generous compared to most other mechanical keyboards on the market today, especially considering it comes with dyesub PBT keycaps. | $80 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Dyesub) | Plate | Buckling spring | No | No |
Varmilo | VA87M | TKL | Varmilo's standard TKL. Features a low-profile case. Not compatible with Macs. Made at the same factory where Leopolds are produced. | $120 | Amazon | Has been sold with ABS and PBT keycaps (Legends: Laser engraved (ABS), dyesub (PBT)) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Varmilo | VB660M | 60% | Identical to the Leopold FC660M, but contains a Bluetooth transmitter and LEDs for backlighting. Currently only available by import. | $130 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Dyesub) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | Yes |
Vortex / KBT / KBC | Type S | TKL | The Vortex Type-S is a high-end TKL from Vortex. It features full backlighting and high quality, rare doubleshot PBT+POM keycaps. Supports several different brightness levels plus a breathing mode. Note that "Type S" does not mean silenced; these have regular MX switches. As of Feb 2015, only available by import from Korea, not carried by any USA retailers. | $190 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Vortex / KBT / KBC | Race | 75% | The original Race was Vortex's first 75% board, but was discontinued upon the release of the Race II. Some batches of the Race had LED problems and other manufacturing deficiencies. | $120 | Amazon | PBT on non-backlit models, ABS on backlit models (Legends: Pad printed (PBT), translucent (ABS)) | PCB | Cherry MX | Optional | No |
Vortex / KBT / KBC | Pure | 60% | The Pure is similar to the Poker II, but has no plate, no programmable layer, and a short right shift with a Fn key. There was also a limited edition pure with an aluminum case. Predecessor to the Pure Pro. Discontinued. | $100+ | Amazon | ABS or PBT depending on backlighting and where bought. Check before purchasing. (Legends: Laser etched (PBT), translucent (ABS)) | PCB | Cherry MX | Optional | No |
Vortex / KBT / KBC | Type M | TKL | The Vortex Type-M is a basic TKL from Vortex, may be a re-branded FC750R with normal spacebar stem spacing. Only available by import. Comes with thick, side-printed PBT caps. No backlighting or programmability. | $170 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Pad printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
Vortex / KBT / KBC | Poker X | 60% | Discontinued and difficult to find. Predecessor to the Poker II; had no metal plate or programmable layer, and no backlit option. | $100 | Amazon | ABS or PBT depending on where bought (Legends: Laser engraved (PBT), pad printed (ABS)) | PCB | Cherry MX | No | No |
Vortex / KBT / KBC | Type F | 100% | A full-size version of the Vortex Type S TKL. Comes with the same doubleshot translucent PBT+POM keycaps. Price listed is in Korean Won. Does not appear to have ever been imported to USA shipping would push up this price by at least $30 if you can find one for sale in Korea. | $115.00 | Amazon | PBT (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
Vortex / KBT / KBC | Pure Pro | 60% | This is the follow-up to the Pure. It has a different layout -- including dedicated arrow keys -- plus a metal plate and a programmable layer. Very nonstandard layout makes it difficult to source replacement keycaps. | $100.00 | Amazon | ABS or PBT depending on backlighting and where bought. Check before purchasing. (Legends: Laser etched (PBT), translucent (ABS)) | Plate | Cherry MX | Optional | No |
Vortex / KBT / KBC | Poker III (POK3R) | 60% | Vortex announced the Poker III in late 2014. It will have the same form factor as the Poker II, but feature a solid cast aluminum case and and full programmability including the location of the PN and FN keys, among other new features. Vortex claims release will be in Feb. 2015. Price TBD, probably will be between $150-200. | $999 | Amazon | ABS or PBT depending on backlighting and where bought. Check before purchasing. (Legends: TBD) | Plate | Cherry MX | Optional | No |
Vortex / KBT / KBC | Poker II | 60% | The follow up to the KBC Poker X, and probably the best selling 60% board today. Has a metal plate, a programmable layer, and a backlit option. Notably, has a standard layout which makes it easy to source replacement keycaps. Massdrop ran a group buy for Poker IIs with MX Clears in summer 2014, the first time such a combination has been available from the factory. Available in black or white. On PBT/nonbacklit version, spacebar says "ENJOY YOUR FEELING!" | $110+ | Amazon | ABS or PBT depending on backlighting and where bought. Check before purchasing. (Legends: Laser engraved (PBT), translucent (ABS)) | Plate | Cherry MX | Optional | No |
Vortex / KBT / KBC | ONI | TKL | A basic TKL from Vortex. Some models are backlit. Was recently re-released with Vortex doubleshot PBT keycaps. | $130+ | Amazon | PBT, some backlit models may have ABS (Legends: Laser etched or doubleshot (PBT), translucent (ABS)) | Plate | Cherry MX | Optional | No |
Vortex / KBT / KBC | Race II | 75% | The Race II is Vortex's 75% board -- sort of like a Poker II with arrow and function keys. However, unlike the Poker II, the Race II has a very nonstandard layout, making it very difficult to source replacement keycaps. Additionally, unlike the Poker II, the Race II does not have a metal backplate. This keyboard has some minor manufacturing and aesthetic improvments over the Race I, which has been discontinued. It also adds a programmable layer. Has a more logical rightmost column than the Choc Mini, similar to the Keycool 84. Available in white or black. | $130 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | PCB | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
WASD | CODE TKL | TKL | The CODE is a rebranded WASD V2 with backlighting and either Clear or Green Cherry MX switches. At the time of its release, was one of the only TKLs on the market to offer both Clear switches and backlighting. Note that Clear and Green switches are both available on the regular V2 if you want a WASD with those switches but without backlighting. Also available as a 104-key. | $150 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |
WASD | V2 104-key | 100% | The V2 104-key is WASD's standard full-size board. What sets it apart from competitors like the QuickFire XT and Majestouch 2 is the variety of keycap customization options offered by WASD. When you order a V2, you can customize the keycaps nearly any way you like, and WASD will create them using ABS plastic and UV printing technology. | $100+ | Amazon | ABS (Legends: UV printing) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
WASD | V2 87-key | TKL | The V2 is WASD's standard TKL offering. What sets it apart from competitors like the QFR and Majestouch is the variety of keycap customization options offered by WASD. When you order a V2, you can customize the keycaps nearly any way you like, and WASD will create them using ABS plastic and UV printing technology. Also available as a 104-key. | $95+ | Amazon | ABS (Legends: UV printed) | Plate | Cherry MX | No | No |
WASD | CODE 104-key | 100% | The CODE is a rebranded WASD V2 with backlighting and either Clear or Green Cherry MX switches. The only full-size board on the market that has the option of both Clear switches and backlighting. Note that Clear and Green switches are both available on the regular V2 if you want a WASD with those switches but without backlighting. | $150 | Amazon | ABS (Legends: Translucent) | Plate | Cherry MX | Yes, 1 color | No |