New keyboard recommendation

kisserik93

kisserik93

kisserik93

Associate
Joined
22 Sep 2018
Posts
65
Hi everyone!

I would like to buy or build a new keyboard for myself.Currently, I’m using a Fnatic Streak RGB, but I want to switch to something at a higher level.My current keyboard is equipped with Silent Red switches, which I like in terms of feel, but it still sounds a bit too loud for me.

What I absolutely need:

  • Layout: ISO
  • Backlighting: I would like it to have backlighting; RGB would be better, but it's not a requirement.
  • I want mechanical switches. I’m not sure whether it makes sense to buy one with analog switches, so please let’s talk about that as well.
  • In terms of size, I’d prefer Full or TKL, maybe even something around 80% or larger would work.
  • If possible, it should be usable both wirelessly and wired, but wireless is not a must.
  • As quiet as possible, if feasible.
What would you recommend, where should I start? I’ve never built a keyboard before, but if it’s not too difficult, I’d be willing to try it out if necessary.

Thank you so much!
 
What's your budget? Keychron is a brand that is a decent introductory (although not the best value) to high-ish end custom boards. They have full built model too.

A Keychron Q6 MAX satisfies all your requirements for ~£200, it does have RGB backlight, but the bundled keycaps are not shine through. I bought one recently and it is great, (also have a Keychron Q3 so already know their build quality).

Personally, I firmly believe the interface devices (KBM, monitor) must not be cheaped out on as they are the peripherals that you interact with most. And welcome to the money sink hole of Mechanical Keyboards.
 
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kisserik93 said:
Hi everyone!

I would like to buy or build a new keyboard for myself.Currently, I’m using a Fnatic Streak RGB, but I want to switch to something at a higher level.My current keyboard is equipped with Silent Red switches, which I like in terms of feel, but it still sounds a bit too loud for me.

What I absolutely need:

  • Layout: ISO
  • Backlighting: I would like it to have backlighting; RGB would be better, but it's not a requirement.
  • I want mechanical switches. I’m not sure whether it makes sense to buy one with analog switches, so please let’s talk about that as well.
  • In terms of size, I’d prefer Full or TKL, maybe even something around 80% or larger would work.
  • If possible, it should be usable both wirelessly and wired, but wireless is not a must.
  • As quiet as possible, if feasible.
What would you recommend, where should I start? I’ve never built a keyboard before, but if it’s not too difficult, I’d be willing to try it out if necessary.

Thank you so much!
Click to expand...
Buy a Keychron and maybe go into a store to try switch types

I’d avoid buying any switches until you know what you like but that’s impossible without knowing what you like after buying a set.

all I can say is try and buy some used linear switches off the forum if you can because everyone seems to spec them as their first switch type and then ends moving to tactile.

One potentially big factor is that if you work in an environment with many people and some of them are super irritated with the sound of a super clicky keyboard, you may end up with comments asking you to not use it #speakingforafriend.

My keyboard at the moment is a Nuphy Halo 65 which I adore and wish it was an ISO layout but I make it work anyway because it’s genuinely amazing.
 
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