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Rohit Gupta
Rohit Gupta

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Hey programmers, which keyboards do you suggest under $200.

I am currently using CM Storm Devastator for 3 years now. I've been thinking about upgrading this for a while and switch to a good mechanical keyboard.

Since I'm on a budget, I'm looking for a good keyboard under $200 USD.

I would love to take your suggestions on the keyboard you are using or have been meaning to buy.

I do not have much knowledge about them, I have seen some reviews but not the ones where people are using them for long term.

My work includes 7 hours of coding everyday, surfing web for 2 hrs every day.

Top comments (3)

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eljayadobe profile image
Eljay-Adobe

I have a lot of keyboards.

My favorite keyboard is the IBM model M keyboard, which is these days still being made although now by Unicomp. The Classic 104 White Buckling Spring USB is what I'd buy, and its under $100. I love the clickety-click audible feedback, and the buckling spring tactile feedback. That's what I'm using right now, although its the black one not the white one.

I almost never use a number pad, and my work desk space is at a premium. I like to have my mouse closer to my keyboard, so not having a number pad is a win for me. At work I use a Razer BlackWidow X Tournament Edition Chroma. I consider the RBG LED backlighting to be a gimmick. But it's a solid keyboard, even though a gamer keyboard. I like the tickety-tick sound of the keys. (The switch mechanism is Razer's own, but it is similar to a Cherry MX Blue.)

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jonasbarka profile image
Jonas Barkå

You should go to a store where you can try different switches, as that is the main (but not only) difference between mechanical keyboards. The most common switch brand is Cherry. I prefer their MX Brown switches. They got a tactical actuation point but no added click. In my experience mechanical keyboards sounds a lot without voluntarily adding more.

I got my browns on a rather cheap off-brand board. I selected it for the very compact tenkeyless layout.

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gnclmorais profile image
Gonçalo Morais

The best thing you can do is to try a few. Find a place that lets you try them or even order several (so you can then return the ones that don’t suit you) and pick one.

I eventually found one that I really enjoy: dev.to/gnclmorais/vortexgear-cyphe...