10 Best Mechanical Keyboards in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by IT Specialist

Red mechanical switches present the lightest feeling, and there's also little feedback when pressing the keys. These switches are the best choice for beginner users and gamers as it only takes minimal force to register a key, and it improves typing speed and gaming performance.

Blue mechanical switches are known to be the "heaviest" among all mechanical keyboard switches as each keypress has a very strong clicking sound. They're ideal for programmers because the heavy feeling will help them assure that they didn't commit mistakes while working on a project.

The sound and feeling given by brown mechanical keyboard switches present a moderate experience as compared to its blue and red counterparts. If users find red switches to be too light or blue switches to be too heavy, then brown switches should be the way to go.

A full-size keyboard incorporates all the essential keys that programmers or gamers might need. It includes letters, modifiers, a number pad, etc. 

This layout is recommended for those who are working with numbers most of the time, as it has the same number layout as some calculators. However, since this type of keyboard is bulky and quite long, you will need to place the mouse further from your keyboard, which may put a strain on your neck, shoulders, or back.

A TKL or tenkeyless keyboard is a shorter version of the full-size since it has most of the keys minus the number pad. It is recommended to those who have lesser keyboard space and don't need a number pad as often. Also, it's best for gamers who often play FPS games as it gives your mouse a lot of space to move with.

If a TKL keyboard is 80% smaller than the full-size, a compact keyboard is at 60%. It resembles a laptop's keyboard that takes up the smallest space possible over your desk. 

Just like a TKL keyboard, it doesn't have a number pad, but it usually comes with function keys, arrow or navigation, and modifiers. However, it has lesser space between the keys, making it look compact. Note that manufacturers have their own key configurations and placement, so it's important to inspect the keyboard before purchase.

This keyboard type comes in partially split or fully split construction. The split in the middle allows your hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders to reposition in a more natural state while typing. 

A partially split setting has a small gap right in the middle but is connected at the bottom. Fully split keyboards have two separate boards that are adjustable so you can angle them at your comfort level.

Most keyboards are made of plastic because it's the best material to use. However, cheaper ones would make awful noises and hollow when you press harder. They also tend to flex when pressure is applied. Higher-quality keyboards with metal inside do not sound and perform like that. If possible, feel and weigh the keyboard while doing your own tests.

Changing the behavior or reaction of certain keys is important to some programmers and gamers. Mechanical keyboards with programmable keys allow you to customize the action of different keysーwhether you want to rearrange keys, remap keys, or change key bindings.

Also, some keyboards have programmable macro keys that you can use as shortcut buttons for functions that require repetitive keystrokes and multiple key combinations. These macro keys will increase your comfort and save your time and effort to boost productivity.

Choosing a keyboard with a removable USB cable is better instead of a built-in one. This allows you to replace just the cable in case it breaks, and not the whole keyboard. Just remember not to lose it, or you will need to purchase another one to you use the keyboard.

If you prefer to have a keyboard backlight, make sure it has a white color or customizable. It helps you work at night or in low light conditions. The RGB lighting is popular nowadays for gamers, where they program the color of the backlight based on the game they are playing or the light color of their tower fans.

As we've mentioned before, a wired connection should be a removable cable, so you don't need to replace the whole unit if it breaks down. It offers a faster and more stable connection since it has no interference. Just make sure you have enough USB ports where you can plug in the keyboard.

If you opt for a wireless keyboard, make sure your tower should has an updated Bluetooth to connect it. Most computer peripherals use Bluetooth for connecting. You also need to consider the battery life of the keyboard and how long the charging time is. This is important to know so you won't go bonkers in the middle of a demanding project or your favorite game.