I’m coming from a Logitech G815.

What I liked:

  • low profile keycaps and body;
  • aluminum body;
  • USB port to plug my mouse into it instead of into the PC;
  • backlit;

What I disliked:

  • switches (presses would register way before feedback);
  • proprietary app for macros, and other configs;

What I’m looking for:

  • mechanical tactile/clicky;
  • backlighting (through the keycap, as I need to see the keys I’m pressing);
  • smaller form factor but with tenkey;
  • shipped to and from EU;
  • wired;
  • US international layout;

What I’d like on top, but I can compromise:

  • low profile keycaps and body;
  • RGB backlighting;
  • aluminum body;
  • adult/sleek design;

Usage will be gaming (no competitive) and a lot of typing. Budget is the main problem, as I’d like to spend no more than 100-125€ but can stretch it to 150€ if it means having more criteria met.

What I looked at so far: Logitech, but the prices aren’t quite there and I wasn’t happy with the G815’s switches; Keychron, but most of them don’t seem to have lighting that goes through the keycaps?; Akko, seem to have the same “issue”; Monsgeek, seems to be more niche stuff and I can’t find a small + 10key form factor.

Thanks in advance!

  • profgrumpypants@midwest.socialEnglish
    1·
    7 hours ago

    I have nothing to add in the mechanical department, as those keyboards drive me insane personally.

    I just wanted to add some comments on finding a solid keyboard you love.

    • Make sure the texture(s) are right for you. Space-age material is cool, but when you hate the feel of your fancy new keyboard, it’s not a fun type.
    • Check the travel, everyone has different expectations and needs for the travel of their keyboard. The setup, and in turn the travel will honestly change your accuracy and speed when it comes to typing. You can adjust of course, but picking up a board you enjoy to type on is always better. For this, I had a sit and truly wondered what I like to press and how I like to type. I stuck a piece of paper and just pounded out on it. I saw how I held my hands, as well as where I liked to hang them and where I was hitting keys from.
    • Create a list of contenders. Analyze if you feel comfortable with their price-to-value, features, form (see above).
    • Do your research. I’ll watch videos and turn their sound off and try to watch people using the tech they’re pawning off. Asking folks helps weed out the noise machine, but I have also been burnt by trusting others over my gut. So I say a healthy mix of everything leads to a happy purchase.
    • Try to purchase from a place you can return to, just in case all else fails.

    I often think of purchases as something I am doing to help myself for an extended period of time. So that might also play into your purchase, and I would look to see what sort of support one could get in that department. Good luck, I hope you find your “dream-board!”