As we all know, technology has advanced significantly over the last decade, and now we have access to some innovations that we could not have imagined 10 years ago.
Having recognized that clicky keyboards remain popular, I have decided to conduct thorough research and compile a list of the best mechanical keyboards available on the market. Based on my findings, I recommend the Redragon K552 as the top choice.
Regarding other options, let’s explore my test and see what you can gather from the keyboards I selected for you.
QUICK OVERVIEW: Best Clicky Keyboards
 | Top Choice Redragon K552
| |
 | Redragon K556
| |
 | Havit Mechanical Keyboard
|
Although keyboards have evolved and we now have various types available, most people, particularly gamers, still prefer the classic mechanical clicky keyboards.
Most people prefer this type of keyboard because it is faster, more durable, has more tactile switches, and therefore offers better tactile feedback.
Instead of searching for information on your own, you can find everything you need to know about the best mechanical keyboards on my list. Based on this information, you can then decide which one meets your expectations and which one you want to purchase.
Table of Contents
1. Redragon K552
Best Overall
Stefan’s Take:
Redragon’s K552 is a high-performance, world-class, innovative keyboard created with dedication and experience.
An excellent thing for gamers is hot-swappable switches so the arrow keys and the WASD keys can be interchanged. This option is especially great for left-handed gamers.
| Ergonomics | 9.6 |
|---|---|
| Quality | 9.0 |
| Programmability | 9.4 |
| Price | 9.5 |
Why do I believe the Redragon K552 is the best clicky keyboard? Here are my reasons.
First of all, I must say that this mechanical gaming keyboard is highly durable and sturdy, featuring a compact design and available with red or blue switches.
As I mentioned in the specifications section, it is constructed from heavy metal and then coated in plastic.
Additionally, the keycaps are molded, and the entire gaming keyboard is splash-resistant.
The mechanical keys are conflict-free, featuring 100% anti-ghosting and a high polling rate.
Generally, this mechanical keyboard is suitable for everyone, but it may be particularly well-suited for gamers.
The primary reasons for this are its backlight and its considerable loudness, which may make it unsuitable for use in an office setting.
Of course, some people don’t like it, but there are also those who adore the clicking sounds, so they would likely be very satisfied with the K552 gaming keyboard.
LED backlighting, which can be toggled on and off, is distributed across the entire TKL keyboard, and the brightness level can also be adjusted using several dedicated media keys.
In total, there are 19 selectable backlight modes.
The K552 gaming keyboard is plug and play, so you won’t need to install anything before using it.
The driver CD is included with the product, but the drivers are also available online.
Regarding the aspects I didn’t like, first and foremost, the ABS plastic used for the keys is quite thin, and the legends printed on the keypads will eventually begin to fade.
Secondly, the USB cable is not detachable, making it more susceptible to damage. Additionally, the keyboard itself is quite heavy, which makes it somewhat more challenging to pack and transport.
Pros
- Cheap mechanical keyboard
- Stable, durable, and compact keyboard
- Superb backlight
- Splash resistant
Cons
- Heavy
- Non-detachable USB
2. Redragon K556
One of the finest mechanical gaming keyboards
Stefan’s Take:
When it comes to the K556 gaming keyboard, I can say it offers a great gaming and typing experience, great compatibility, and that it is very durable.
The design is quite simple, but the build quality is very high and the RGB key backlighting with 18 different modes is very good.
| Ergonomics | 9.4 |
|---|---|
| Quality | 9.2 |
| Programmability | 9.3 |
| Price | 9.1 |
Backlighting, a loud typing sound, and a sleek design all contribute to the appeal of this mechanical keyboard.
However, if you’re looking for a stylish keyboard for your work, why not consider purchasing this one?
Since the previous gaming keyboard on my list was also made by Redragon, I must first emphasize that there are many similarities between the K552 and K556 gaming keyboards.
Similarly to the K552, the K556 features a spill-proof design and LED backlighting.
Additionally, the K556 gaming keyboard features 100% anti-ghosting. The materials used in its construction are nearly identical to those of the K552 keyboard, and you can shift keys such as the arrow keys and WASD keys in the same manner as with the K552.
However, unlike the K552, the K556 mechanical keyboard is quieter, making it more suitable for certain office tasks, and it also features 17 additional keys compared to the K552.
Some of you may view this as a positive aspect, as many people prefer keyboards with more keys. However, others may see it as a drawback, since the K556 gaming keyboard has a larger footprint than the K552, resulting in it occupying more space.
The mechanical keyboard features Outemu Brown switches, and Redragon has included 8 additional gaming keyboard switches in the box.
At the bottom of this gaming keyboard, you will find two rubber pads that provide stability, along with two adjustable feet. When retracted, these feet create a slightly raised back, and when extended, they offer a more angled setup.
The K556 is a plug-and-play keyboard, and its software is very user-friendly.
Regarding the drawbacks of this keyboard, I was not fond of the absence of dedicated macro keys and the simplistic design, which may be an issue across all Redragon keyboards.
Pros
- High build quality
- Fair price
- Simple software
- 8 spare gaming keyboard switches included
- Spill-proof design
Cons
- Plain design
- No dedicated macro keys
3. Havit
The Best Retro Gaming Keyboard
Stefan’s Take:
Given that this keyboard has a lower number of keys, it is very compact and doesn’t take up much space since it has a small footprint.
Unlike most keyboards, Havit Mechanical Keyboard is quite silent, which is something that, according to my research, most gamers won’t like, but office workers might like this characteristic.
| Ergonomics | 9.5 |
|---|---|
| Quality | 8.9 |
| Programmability | 9.3 |
| Price | 9.2 |
This keyboard makes it challenging to decide if it is better suited for work and everyday use or for gaming.
Its retro style can look quite appealing in certain offices, and since it operates quietly, you can be confident that you won’t disturb your colleagues.
However, whether an individual views the absence of typing sounds as positive or negative depends on their personal preference.
On the other hand, it is quite colorful, so from that perspective, it could also look appealing on a gaming desk.
While there are no RGB lights, the design featuring orange, black, and white keys evokes a sense of nostalgia for the past.
Ultimately, whether you appreciate that feature or not is entirely your choice, but I believe you would agree that this keyboard is quite unique.
This mechanical keyboard features a sturdy, non-detachable braided USB-A cable.
This ergonomic keyboard has spacious keys that enhance your typing experience.
Additionally, you can adjust it to two different angles: flat, without the legs, or elevated, with the legs extended.
One significant drawback of this keyboard is the poor quality of the legend on the keycaps, as the letters begin to fade after just a few weeks of use.
Pros
- Affordable
- Unique design
- Comfortable
Cons
- The printing on keys starts wearing off very quickly
- Non-detachable USB cable
4. Das Keyboard 4 Professional
Ideal for the office
Stefan’s Take:
Since there are two sets of standard mechanical switches you can choose whether you want a more silent or louder one, and, therefore, you can use this mechanical keyboard anywhere.
Nevertheless, if I need to make a judgment based on this keyboard’s look since there are no backlights it, honestly, looks more like an office type of keyboard to me.
| Ergonomics | 9.3 |
|---|---|
| Quality | 9.2 |
| Programmability | 9.3 |
| Price | 8.7 |
First, I need to clarify the confusion regarding the number of keys.
Specifically, the US version of this keyboard has 104 keys, while the version sold in Europe has 105 keys.
This mechanical keyboard is available with two types of switches.
You essentially have a choice between two types of Cherry MX switches: Cherry MX Brown and Cherry MX Blue.
The Cherry MX Blue switches are firmer and, therefore, louder, whereas the Cherry MX Brown linear switches are lighter and quieter.
This keyboard is quite sturdy and stable. Instead of the flip-out legs commonly found on the bottom side of keyboards, it features a magnetic foot bar for adjusting the typing angle.
Additionally, there are several useful buttons, including Track Back, Track Forward, Play/Pause, Mute, and Sleep, along with a volume wheel.
Additionally, there is a two-port USB hub that supports USB 3.0, which is quite uncommon among other mechanical keyboards. However, if your computer lacks an available USB 3.0 port, it will function as a USB 2.0.
The key switches are of high quality and, most importantly, are clicky and tactile.
Furthermore, similar to the previous keyboard on my list of the best mechanical keyboards, this Das Keyboard lacks backlighting, which makes it less aesthetically appealing than some other comparable gaming keyboards.
Regarding the drawbacks of this keyboard, the primary issue is the absence of macro keys.
Although this keyboard is of very high quality, I must admit that it is somewhat expensive.
Finally, like many other mechanical keyboards, the mechanical switches on this one are also made of ABS plastic, and the legend on the keycaps wears off almost immediately.
Pros
- Available with two sorts of switches
- Very sturdy
- The USB hub supports USB 3.0
Cons
- No macro keys
- No backlights
5. SteelSeries Apex Pro
The highest quality
Stefan’s Take:
The Apex Pro keyboard is modern and comfortable and I recommend it not only to gamers but to all people who are engaged in typing.
Accessories like a wrist rest can be very useful if you spend many hours using the keyboard regardless of your job.
| Ergonomics | 9.4 |
|---|---|
| Quality | 9.4 |
| Programmability | 9.4 |
| Price | 8.7 |
This mechanical gaming keyboard features 100% anti-ghosting and includes a 2.0 USB passthrough port.
To start using it, you must install the SteelSeries Engine 3 software.
The RGB lighting is outstanding and definitely enhances the overall gaming experience.
Certainly, the lights can be turned on and off, and the brightness can be adjusted to your preference using dedicated media keys.
The keyboard is constructed from aluminum, which provides excellent stability and durability.
Additionally, there is a customizable OLED display, and the switches are OmniPoint.
An excellent feature of these mechanical switches is that you can adjust the actuation point of nearly all keys on the keyboard, allowing you to customize your typing experience or optimize your gaming performance.
The SteelSeries Apex Pro Gaming keyboard is compact and occupies minimal space.
However, if you desire extra comfort, there is a magnetic wrist rest that expands the keyboard’s footprint. Your wrists will appreciate it, and you won’t experience any discomfort or pain.
Although the keycaps are made of plastic, they are quite solid and of high quality, and they are not very loud.
However, it does not have dual-key functions.
What I also disliked was the non-detachable USB cable, which is quite thick and requires careful cable management, as it can be easily damaged.
Additionally, there is no padding, making the keyboard susceptible to dust accumulation, which makes it difficult to keep clean.
Pros
- Excellent RGB lighting
- OLED smart display
- Great build quality
- Adjustable key actuation point
- Wrist rest
Cons
- Expensive
- Attracts a lot of dust
- No dual-function keys
6. ANNE PRO 2
Top Compact Keyboard
Stefan’s Take
Anne Pro 2 mechanical keyboard is highly compatible, stylish, reliable, and cool.
This mechanical keyboard has a very small footprint and only 61 keys, but it is quite a powerful piece of equipment.
| Ergonomics | 8.8 |
|---|---|
| Quality | 9.3 |
| Programmability | 9.5 |
| Price | 8.9 |
First, you can choose the switches you prefer, with options including Cherry, Gateron, or Kailh mechanical switches.
Additional keycaps are included in the box, and they are always essential and helpful.
Therefore, if any unwanted issues arise with your individual keys, you have a replacement available.
The case is constructed from ABS plastic, while the keycaps are made of PBT plastic; both materials are high-quality and highly durable.
Due to the smooth and flexible keycaps, both typing and gaming on this mechanical keyboard are predominantly silent.
The USB cable is detachable and is a USB-C cable, which indicates that it is of premium quality.
This keyboard features Bluetooth 4.0 for wireless connectivity, which is another aspect that sets it apart. It is compatible with Windows 8-10, macOS, Linux, Android 4.4 and above, and iOS 7.0 and above.
The battery capacity is 1900mAh, allowing for wireless use of up to 8 hours.
An on/off switch is also included to conserve battery life when the keyboard is not in use.
The Obinskit software, which accompanies the keyboard, allows you to change the color of each key and fully reprogram the lighting.
Additionally, the Anne Pro RGB backlighting effect can produce 16.8 million color schemes, you can assign the macro feature to up to 16 keys, and there are various switch options available.
Ultimately, the design is quite modern, and its compact footprint enhances its stylishness. Although the price is somewhat higher, I believe it is entirely worth it.
The downside of this mechanical keyboard may be the absence of dedicated Fn keys, arrow keys, and a number pad.
Pros
- Wired and wireless connectivity
- USB-C cable and Bluetooth 4.0
- Excellent battery capacity
- Amazing RGB lighting
- Modern design
Cons
- Lacks some keys
7. HK Gaming GK61
The Most Silent
Stefan’s Take:
When it comes to the GK61 keyboard, if I need to describe it in three words, I would say it is reliable, modern, and compact.
Just like the previous one, this mechanical keyboard also has a small number of keys, only 61, and, therefore, it’s very compact and has a small footprint.
| Ergonomics | 9.1 |
|---|---|
| Quality | 9.0 |
| Programmability | 9.2 |
| Price | 8.9 |
The same statement I made about the previous keyboard on the list applies to this one as well.
It has a compact design, a limited number of keys, and numerous backlights, making these keyboard features perfect for gamers.
It cannot operate wirelessly, so you cannot pair it with multiple devices simultaneously, and it features a detachable USB-C cable.
Inside the box, you will also find an aluminum switch puller and a plastic keycap puller.
The keyboard’s base is constructed from aluminum and coated with high-quality plastic, making it both sturdy and durable.
However, you should not expect audible or tactile feedback from this keyboard.
On the underside of the GK61 gaming keyboard, there are four rubber feet that keep the keyboard from sliding.
Gateron optical switches come in six different colors, allowing you to select varying levels of smoothness.
Although there are no dedicated arrow keys, you can replicate their function by using the Fn button.
This button can also be used to control the lights, functioning essentially as one of the media keys.
GK61 features LED lights and includes RGB lighting, offering a wide range of effects and combinations.
The brightness can also be adjusted, with 21 different levels available for control.
A great feature of this gaming keyboard is its built-in microphone.
The advanced software that accompanies this gaming keyboard is of high quality but somewhat complicated; it can be used for various functions, such as saving and recording macros.
Concerning the drawbacks, I observed that there are no kickstands on the underside of the keyboard, which means you cannot adjust the angle for use.
As a result, the legend on the keycaps is likely to wear off.
Pros
- Good build quality
- Modern design
- Detachable USB cable
- Built-in microphone
Cons
- The inscription on the keycaps wears off
- No kickstands for angle adjustment
Things to Consider When Buying a Mechanical Keyboard
1. Typing Sounds
As I mentioned in the text, some research indicates that most gamers enjoy hearing loud typing sounds.
However, some prefer silent keyboards, and if you are an office worker, your colleagues likely won’t appreciate a loud keyboard.
I have included both loud and silent office and gaming keyboards in this list, allowing you to select the one you prefer the most.
2. Build Quality
If you frequently use your keyboard, you definitely want it to be sturdy and durable.
The best mechanical keyboards should feature a construction primarily of metal (mostly aluminum) and plastic keycaps.
Those gaming keycaps should be crafted from high-quality plastic. Additionally, you should consider the legends on them, as they can wear off easily and quickly on many office and gaming keyboards.
3. Number of Keys and Footprint
These two features are closely related.
Mechanical keyboards with additional keys will have a larger footprint, and vice versa.
Therefore, if you want to save space, you should choose a keyboard with fewer keys.
Conversely, if you want to keep all the necessary keys available, you should be ready to sacrifice some desk space.
4. Backlights
Backlights are likely the least significant item on this “Things to consider” list.
Many gamers appreciate them because they enhance the keyboard’s aesthetic appeal and can also be helpful for gaming at night.
However, if you plan to use your keyboard in the office, backlights are likely unnecessary.
Conclusion
I have made an effort to include various types of mechanical clicky keyboards on my list, ensuring that everyone can find at least one keyboard that suits them perfectly.
After evaluating them across four categories (ergonomics, quality, programmability, and price), my final ranking is:
Therefore, I hope this list of the best mechanical keyboards proves useful to anyone in need of a keyboard. I trust that the information I have gathered about each keyboard will simplify their decision-making process.
