Discover the Best Supplies for Your Mechanical Keyboard Journey 🖌️
As technology continues to evolve, the rise of mechanical keyboards has become an increasingly popular trend among typists, gamers, and tech enthusiasts worldwide. However, a mechanical keyboard journey goes beyond just the keyboard itself. It's an adventure packed with a plethora of accessories and supplies that can significantly enhance your typing experience. Today, we'll guide you through some of the best supplies for your mechanical keyboard journey.
Understanding Mechanical Keyboards
Before diving into the best supplies, let's get a quick overview of mechanical keyboards. Mechanical keyboards are characterized by their individual switches beneath each key, providing tactile feedback, durability, and a satisfying sound. They have become a favorite among users who spend long hours typing or gaming.
Two Common options:
- Baarebone: Pick a barebone keyboard and build it yourself (Also called a keyboard kit)
- Complete: Buy a keyboard with its switches and keycaps already installed.
Custom Keycaps
One of the first steps in customizing your mechanical keyboard is selecting the right keycaps. These are the physical keys that you press when typing. Available in various materials, colors, and styles, keycaps can significantly transform the aesthetic, sound, and feel of your keyboard.
There are many types and different qualities out there. However, most tend to decide between two common options:
- ABS: Custom keycaps made out of ABS plastic. Tend to be better in terms of feel and sound, but at the expense of extra cost and tend to wear out or shine a little too fast.
- PBT: Custom keycaps made out of PBT plastic. More durable and resistant to other keycaps, but does not offer true vivid colors and texture is not as pleasant to type on.
Mechanical Keyboard Switches
Switches are the heart of a mechanical keyboard. They determine the keyboard's sound, feel, and responsiveness. With a variety of switch types available, from linear to tactile and clicky, each offers a different typing experience. Do some research to find the one that suits your preferences best.
The three main types here are:
- Linear: Most popular switch type for general use and gaming.
- Tactile: Second most popular switch type. Tactile Switches offer a tactile bump to your mechanical keyboard experience.
- Clicky: These offer audible and sensory feedback to the typing experience. Only for those looking for an audible typing.
Keyboard Cleaning Supplies
Maintaining your keyboard is crucial to ensuring it continues to perform at its peak. Invest in a good quality keycap puller and cleaning kit. Regular cleaning not only keeps your keyboard looking brand new but also prevents dust and grime from affecting its functionality.
Wrist Rests
Prolonged keyboard use can lead to wrist discomfort. A wrist rest can help maintain an ergonomic typing position, reducing stress on your wrists. They come in various materials, from foam to wood, catering to different comfort needs.
Keyboard Cases
A keyboard case is essential if you plan on traveling with your mechanical keyboard. These cases are designed to protect your keyboard from damage while also providing space for other essential accessories like cables and extra keycaps.
Sound Dampeners
If you find the sound of your keyboard to be too loud, sound dampeners or o-rings are a great solution. They reduce the noise produced by the keypresses without significantly affecting the typing feel.
Keyboard Cables
Upgrading your keyboard cable can add an extra touch of personalization to your setup. Custom cables come in a variety of colors and styles, allowing you to match your cable with your keyboard and desk setup.
Conclusion
Starting a mechanical keyboard journey can seem overwhelming with the vast array of accessories available. However, with a little research and guidance, you can find the supplies that best match your needs and aesthetic preferences. Remember, the beauty of a mechanical keyboard lies not just in its functionality, but also in its customizability. Happy typing!