Mechanical keyboards have surged in popularity in recent years, becoming the go-to choice for many discerning typists, programmers, and gamers. Loved for their superior ergonomics, satisfying tactile feedback, attractive designs, and extensive customization options, a great mechanical keyboard can provide an unparalleled typing and gaming experience.
But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which mechanical keyboards are really worth your hard-earned cash. That‘s where the mechanical keyboard enthusiast community on Reddit comes in. On subreddits like r/MechanicalKeyboards and r/buildapc, passionate digital tech enthusiasts come together to discuss, debate, and recommend the best mechanical keyboards for different needs and budgets.
To help you choose your ideal clickety-clacker, we‘ve scoured these communities to round up the mechanical keyboards most frequently and enthusiastically recommended by redditors. But first, let‘s break down some key terminology you‘ll encounter when researching mechanical keyboards.
Understanding Mechanical Keyboard Lingo
Before we dive into the top picks, here are some key terms and concepts to understand:
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Switches – The mechanisms under each key that determine its feel, sound, and actuation. The most common types are linear (smooth with consistent resistance), tactile (with a bump you can feel), and clicky (tactile with a loud click sound). Examples include Cherry MX, Kailh, and Gateron switches.
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Form factors – The size and layout of the keyboard, indicated by the percentage of keys included compared to a full-size board. Common form factors include full-size (100%), 1800 Compact (96%), tenkeyless (80% – no number pad), 75%, 65%, and 60%.
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Hot-swappable – Keyboards with hot-swap sockets allow you to easily remove and replace the switches without soldering.
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Keycaps – The removable plastic tops of the switches with the legend printed on them. Keycaps come in different colors, fonts, materials and profiles that affect the look and feel.
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Programmability – Customizable keyboards allow you to reprogram keys, create macros, and customize the RGB backlighting.
With those concepts in mind, let‘s count down the top mechanical keyboard picks according to Reddit. For each board, I‘ll explain why it‘s so beloved by redditors and go over the key features and specs that set it apart.
10. Keychron K6
Kicking off our list is the Keychron K6, a compact 65% keyboard that offers a winning combination of ergonomics, attractive design, and Mac compatibility at an affordable price.
Redditors love the K6 as an entry-level mech that doesn‘t compromises on features. With your choice of Gateron switches, Mac-specific keycaps, wireless Bluetooth connectivity, RGB backlighting, an aluminum frame, and even the option to go hot-swappable, the K6 ticks a lot of boxes for under $100. Its Mac-first design and 65% layout make it especially popular for productivity.
Key Specs:
- 65% form factor
- Gateron switch options
- Wireless Bluetooth and wired modes
- Mac keycaps included
- RGB backlighting
- Optional hot-swap sockets
- Aluminum frame
9. Ducky One 2 Mini
Next up we have the Ducky One 2 Mini, a 60% keyboard from one of the most respected brands in the mechanical keyboard world. This tiny keyboard punches well above its weight class.
The Ducky One 2 Mini gets a lot of love on Reddit for its excellent build quality, vibrant RGB lighting, and premium PBT keycaps at a reasonable price. Redditors also rave about the staggering number of switch options Ducky offers. From Cherry MX to Kailh, you can get the One 2 Mini with just about any switch under the sun. Factor in the fully programmable keys and macro support and you have a pint-sized powerhouse perfect for gaming or typing on the go.
Key Specs:
- 60% form factor
- Wide range of Cherry MX and Kailh switch options
- Doubleshot PBT keycaps
- Programmable keys with macro support
- RGB backlighting with tons of modes
8. Varmilo VA87M
In the 8th spot we have the Varmilo VA87M, a stylish tenkeyless board that puts a premium on typing feel and aesthetics.
The VA87M is a common recommendation for typists or productivity focused users who want a slick, professional looking board with top-notch build quality and a satisfying typing experience. Redditors gush over the excellent stock keycaps and stabilizers which put boards twice its price to shame. The high-quality dye-sublimated PBT keycaps come in a range of stylish colorways, often with fun themes. Although it lacks backlighting, the VA87M more than makes up for it with its fantastic feel and eye-catching looks.
Key Specs:
- Tenkeyless form factor
- Cherry MX switch options
- Dye-sub PBT keycaps in various colors/themes
- Superb build quality and stabilizers
- No backlighting
7. Obinslab Anne Pro 2
Next we have the Obinslab Anne Pro 2, a beloved 60% keyboard with premium features and a shockingly low price. If you want a compact, portable board that can do it all, look no further.
Redditors recommend the Anne Pro 2 as arguably the best value around in a 60% board. It crams in Gateron or Kailh switch options, high quality PBT keycaps, full programmability, vibrant RGB lighting, a hefty 1900 mAh battery for Bluetooth use, and even a mobile app for customization, all in a sleek design for around $100. While its build quality isn‘t quite up there with pricier 60% boards, it‘s an unbeatable all-arounder that excels for gaming and typing.
Key Specs:
- 60% form factor
- Gateron, Cherry, or Kailh switch options
- PBT keycaps with shine-through legends
- RGB lighting with tons of effects
- Programmable with macro support via desktop or mobile apps
- 1900 mAh battery with Bluetooth connectivity
6. Keychron Q1
Entering the premium segment of our list is the Keychron Q1, a 75% gasket-mount keyboard kit that‘s become a smash hit since launching last year. This is a board for enthusiasts and tinkerers who want a high-end custom feel without the insane price tag or complex building process.
The Q1 earned its spot as one of the most recommended boards on Reddit by pushing the envelope of what you can get in a mainstream keyboard kit. Gasket-mounted for a supremely bouncy and responsive typing feel, the Q1 features a hefty milled aluminum case, hot-swap PCB, screw-in stabilizers, silicone dampening, full QMK programmability, and a rotary knob. Assembling your Q1 with your choice of switches and keycaps is dead simple and yields a premium typing experience that rivals keyboards triple its price. If you want a thoroughly modern mech that oozes quality and customization potential, the Q1 is for you.
Key Specs:
- 75% form factor
- Gasket-mount design
- Hot-swap PCB
- QMK/VIA programmability
- Aluminum case
- Screw-in stabilizers
- Silicone dampeners
- Programmable knob
5. GMMK Pro
At number 5 we have the Glorious GMMK Pro, another enthusiast-grade 75% gasket-mount kit that gives you astounding customization options without breaking the bank.
Much like the Q1, the GMMK Pro gets high marks from redditors for bringing once-niche premium features to the masses. It has a striking high-profile CNC aluminum case, gasket-mounted plate, hot-swap PCB, screw-in stabilizers, a rotary knob, and QMK/VIA programmability for full customization. But what sets it apart is the option to choose between a fixed or removable USB-C daughterboard and aluminum or polycarbonate plates, giving the user even more ways to fine-tune their typing feel and sound. The streamlined, angular design is also gorgeous. While its gasket implementation isn‘t quite as bouncy as the Q1, the GMMK Pro is an outstanding option for enthusiasts who want a glamorous high-end board they can make their own.
Key Specs:
- 75% form factor
- Gasket mount design
- Hot-swap PCB
- QMK/VIA programmability
- Rotary knob
- CNC aluminum case
- Choice of aluminum or PC plates
- Screw-in stabilizers
- Modular USB-C daughterboard
4. Ducky One 3
Coming in hot at number 4 is the latest flagship from Ducky, the One 3. Available in Mini (60%), TKL, and full-size form factors, this feature-rich board has something for everyone and the build quality to satisfy even picky enthusiasts.
Redditors have wasted no time crowning the One 3 as one of the best pre-built mechanicals on the market. Combining the fantastic double-shot PBT keycaps, smooth stabilizers, and wide switch selection Ducky is known for with a sleek new design and premium features, the One 3 is a stunner. It boasts hot-swap sockets, a gasket-mounted design for improved acoustics and feel, an understated white or black colorway, and a striking RGB lightbar around the perimeter of the case. Its sturdy dual-layer PCB and foam dampeners result in a solid, satisfying typing experience. As a no-compromises keyboard available in a range of sizes, the One 3 gets the Reddit seal of approval.
Key Specs:
- Available in 60%, TKL, or full-size
- Various Cherry MX and Kailh switch options
- Doubleshot PBT keycaps
- Dual layer hot-swap PCB
- Gasket mount design
- RGB top lightbar and per-key lighting
- Foam dampeners for improved acoustics
- Detachable braided USB-C cable
3. Leopold FC750R
Sliding into the top 3 is the Leopold FC750R, a tenkeyless board laser-focused on delivering an uncompromising typing experience. This is for the purists who want a rock-solid keyboard that feels amazing to type on.
Redditors often recommend Leopold boards like the FC750R to users who want to invest in a well-built, no-frills keyboard that will last for years. Leopolds have a sterling reputation for their excellent stabilizers, reliably solid build quality, PBT keycaps, and focus on typing feel above all else. The FC750R gives you your choice of the most popular Cherry MX switches and a classic understated design at a mid-range price point. It has no backlighting and zero extraneous features – this board is all business and built to satisfy the discerning typist.
Key Specs:
- Tenkeyless form factor
- Various Cherry MX switch options
- High quality PBT keycaps
- Excellent stabilizers
- Simple, professional design
- Sturdy construction
- No backlighting or extra features
2. KBDfans KBD67 Lite
Our silver medalist is the KBDfans KBD67 Lite, a 65% gasket-mount kit that, true to its name, finds the perfect way to cut weight without sacrificing features or feel.
Since its launch, the KBD67 Lite has been one of the most frequently recommended entry-level enthusiast boards on Reddit. By using a plastic case that incorporates a silicone gasket, KBDfans created an exceptionally lightweight board with a delightfully bouncy and responsive typing feel. Combine that with a hot-swap PCB, cherry-style stabilizers, and understated design in a range of cute colors and it‘s easy to see why this board is so popular. It‘s affordable, easy to assemble, and sounds shockingly good with the right switches and keycaps. The KBD67 Lite is a fantastic entry point to the world of custom keyboards.
Key Specs:
- 65% form factor
- Gasket mount design
- Hot swap PCB
- Injection molded plastic case
- Silicone gaskets
- Plate and PCB foam included
- Cherry-style stabilizers
- Variety of colorful case options
1. Mode SixtyFive
And now, the mechanical keyboard most acclaimed by Redditors – the Mode SixtyFive. A premium 65% gasket-mount kit, the SixtyFive is the endgame keyboard for discerning users who want the best of the best and are willing to pay for it.
The Mode SixtyFive is pretty much at the top of every enthusiast‘s list of grail boards and for good reason. No other mainstream kit offers its combination of premium materials, high-end construction and boundless customization potential. It has a striking gasket-mounted design with your choice of aluminum, brass, copper, or titanium backpieces and accents. The isolated gasket system delivers an unbelievably responsive and bouncy typing experience which can be fine-tuned with optional plates, foams, and silicone base. Then there‘s the gorgeous lightstrip, hot-swap PCB, screw-in stabilizers, and so much more. If you have the budget and want the best of the best, the Reddit consensus is clear – get the Mode.
Key Specs:
- 65% form factor
- Gasket mount construction
- Aluminum case with optional metal backpieces/accents
- Hot-swap PCB
- QMK/VIA programmability
- Screw-in stabilizers
- 360° lightstrip
- Poron gaskets and silicone base
- Optional plates, case, and PCB foam
The Bottom Line
There you have it – the definitive ranking of the best mechanical keyboards according to Reddit. While it was tough to narrow it down to just 10 picks, the boards covered here represent the cream of the crop for different needs, budgets, and priorities. Whether you go for a budget option like the Keychron K6, a premium kit like the Mode SixtyFive, or anything in between, investing in a great mechanical keyboard is one of the best ways to upgrade your setup.
Your perfect keyboard is out there – use this list as a starting point, read reviews and user impressions, and don‘t be afraid to try new things! Before you know it, you‘ll be showing off glamor shots of your endgame board on r/MechanicalKeyboards. Happy clacking!
