Amazon? You are probably better off trying keyboards at your local Best Buy though. Clicky Razer is the equivalent of Blues, Silent Razer are Browns, and Corsair are Reds. I highly recommend not to buy one of those, but they should give a feel for the different switch types.
CM Storm QFR or Ducky One TKL are the best TKL options with a budget of $100.
Here's one on Amazon for $10. It's the one I have right now and it makes for a great stress ball. Cheers!
Get something like this. I was in the dark about mechanical keyboards as well, but it's not something that can be easily explained. It's a tactile thing, you need to be able to evaluate it with your own hands.
Max Keyboard Keycap, Cherry MX Switch, O-Ring Sampler Tester Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E71W4O8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_r9Rrzb031N8WC
I recommend you get this
It has four of the most popular genuine cherry mix switch types with transparent key caps so you can see which one you're trying. Also comes with a key puller and damper O rings so you can try all kinds of combos. Once you decide what you want and you finally get a nice new keyboard, it makes a nice paper weight/fidget toy anyway lmao
i got it because If i was spending $140 on a keyboard i wanted to make sure which switches i wanted
I have a full-size Ducky at work and a Corsair tenkeyless at home, with Cherry Browns (moderate force, low noise), and both have worked well for me.
I don't have direct experience with a 60% keyboard (like you have), but Ducky's got the Mini that might suit you.
Two preparatory suggestions: order a "demo set" of keys and see which switches you prefer, and buy a set of o-rings (which will help dampen sound) and try those as well. A quick search turns up this set on Amazon that even includes some o-rings.
If it's mechanical look into the different switch types and even considering ordering one of these to try them out first hand. Backlight or no backlight, single color or RGB backlighting, other features like programmable macro keys, built in wrist rests, full or 10 keyless designs are some other considerations as well.
There's a whole lot of switches with variance in noise and feel. I would recommend you go to a store that has a few that you can try and see. If not you can get this little sampler: https://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1476110020&sr=8-1&keywords=mechanical+keyboard+sample
Here is the simple method the mech switches:
>BLUES - Typing
>REDS - Gaming
>BROWNS - A mix of both
Some more tips:
Don't get blues if you live with other people. They will murder you
Seriously, to everyone that asks the same question as you, just buy some fucking mx testers. I got mine for under 10 bucks on amazon and I love it. It is a strip with all the different switches on it. Don't be lazy, buy this.
If you have a local Frys or Microcenter, I'm sure they can let you test out some mechanical keyboards there.
What keyboard to get?
Personally here is what I recomend:
Corsair
Das professional
Custom keyboard from WASD
Ducky shine
If you want real advice, there is a while fucking sub for this (and it is very active):
/r/mechanicalkeyboards
Just go to that sub and ask away. Also look at pics of other keyboards, to get an idea of what you like. Personally, I have the Corsair Strafe RGB with browns. I love it more than anything. But yeah, get the switch tester on amazon, and check out that sub.
Hope this helps :)
Edit 1:
Here is the Amazon thingy:
>Max Keyboard Keycap, Cherry MX Switch, O-Ring Sampler Tester Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E71W4O8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_gY-Dxb9RYZEYA
these are nice if you don't have a local place to demo them. The switches just feel different and it is user preference really. I went with browns because they felt more consistent to me and have been happy that I did.
You didn't click the add frequently bought together button did you? That combo of 3 items is about 40 usd
You can check out this one but it doesn't have as many keys to test. http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1462723831&sr=8-2&keywords=Switch+Tester
Words really don't do it justice. I bought one of these to figure out which kind of mechanical keyboard switch is right for me.
Good place to start is looking at are the following brands (btw, if you are looking for enthusiast-level mechs, disregard this list):
Cooler Master
Corsair
Ducky
For keys, you can buy one of these and see which one you like best. Most people prefer MX Blues.
Check /r/mechanicalkeyboards out. The wiki there is a great resource.
I really recommend picking up a mechanical keyboard. And if you buy kailh switches rather than the higher end ones like Cherry MX, Topre, or Matias, it can be as low as $70. If you want to know more about it check out /r/mechanicalkeyboards. The wiki will have plenty of information. Also, remember that there are different types of switches and they all feel different. If you want to try the cherry/kailh keys you can get this switch tester.
It's like trying to explain a flavor...
It was a big expense when I decided to upgrade but I love it... I hate going to work and using teh squeeshy membrane HP crap they have here...
Its about the clicks, the feeling of actually pressing a button. The rollover is nice as well if you play games that require lots of key presses at once.
Ask some people you know (maybe on facebook or something) if anyone has one you could try out.
There are also Test kits you could try.
If you don't like the clicks there are also O rings that can be attached to dampen the audible clicks.
But you'll learn to love them.
Which is why it's great heading down to a local store or buying a key tester is a great idea to find out which ones you like. I enjoy typing on blues because of the precise tactile and audio feedback, and personally found reds to be a bad typing experience, but I have friends who swear by them.
>The Deathadder you mentioned is great if you're a palm or fingertip gripper
I'm very much a fingertip grip guy and I have to say the Deathadder was one of the worst mice I've ever held. Don't get me wrong, the build quality was great, but the shape meant I'd always be hitting the heel of my palm with the back of the mouse when trying to use it. It actually restricted how much I could move the mouse because I'd have to involve arm movements to reach stuff near the bottom of the screen.
Then again, maybe I just have tiny hands.
>I recommend going to a bestbuy or other tech store that sells mech keyboards and asking them if they have a cherry mx switch tester on hand to find out what switch is the most comfortable.
If that isn't an option you can buy switch testers for about $15 USD.
Go to a local pc store and test switches if they have keyboards layed out.
Ask some friends if they have any.
Or order one of those key switch testers for ~12 bucks
Edit: price is actually cheaper than I though http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8
all mechanical keyboards are a little loud because the noise come from the keycap hitting the bottom of the plate.
Blacks and red are almost the same: linear with no clicky, the only difference is the force need to press down the key. Black is more stiff causing it to not touch the backplate to easily, but you can find a discomfort while typing.
If you are really in doubt there is some samples that you can buy to test the keys for yourself: http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8
Excellent to know, thanks! How loud are the browns? One of the main reasons I haven't fully pulled the trigger on a mechanical at home is that it might drive my girlfriend bonkers if it sounded like a machine-gun nest all the time. I think I should just order one of those key testers: http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8
I use a CM Storm one, I can't remember the exact name but it works great for me. It's quiet thick and the surface is slippery and is very comfortable on the wrist. It's good for me since I mainly play MOBA's and not too many shooters. Some also opt for a larger mat that extends to their keyboard. With trying out mechanical keyboard, not really too sure. You can always buy a tester for cherry keys like this one http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1438121193&sr=8-2&keywords=cherry+mx+key+samples. That's if you can't find a place to test keyboards. There's a whole subreddit on mechanical keyboards /r/MechanicalKeyboards/
I would recommend you try some different switches before buying a keyboard. You can do this either by going to a store where they have keyboards you can try, or by buying a key sampler like this:http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1433695786&sr=8-2&keywords=key+sampler
If you're gonna spend a lot of money on a new mechanical keyboard, you might wanna order a sampler kit to try the different switches to see what fits your personal preference. Kinda wished I had done the same before I ordered mine.
I think it's worth it as long as you aren't switching out parts to fit it into your budget.
You can also get a switch tester like this one to figure out which type of switch you like best before dropping $100 to find out you don't like them. The one I linked includes the four most popular types - blue, red, brown and black
First off find out what switches you like best/feel best to you. http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8
I'd probably go with a Corsair K70 in the switches you prefer.
(If you like black switches the best, I don't believe you can get a Corsair K70)
Could you clarify, do you want an ANSI or ISO layout?
I wouldn't go for any MX switch without trying them out first, as you may find that you like MX Browns or MX Blues a lot more than MX Reds. If you can, you should buy a switch tester like this one to get an idea of what you'd like.
Reds don't help gaming very much, it's more important to have a keyboard that you like.
You are making a wise consideration, hope to welcome you to the family soon!
A few things to start. I would really suggest buying a switch tester. As easy as it is to read about keys, testing them is essential. Some people say Blues are loud, for others they aren't loud enough. Some say Blacks are too sturdy, others think they are too easy to press, etc, etc. That being said, spend the few extra bucks and test out the switches so you can make a wise investment. Sure it won't tell you what its like to type on, but it will answer the questions like is it going to be too loud? or do I want tactile? or do I want clicky? or do I want linear? Reading can not answer these questions for you, plain and simple.
On that note, a mech is definitely an investment. It should last years, if not decades. If problems do occur, most are easy fixes. So once you do decide what your needs are, such as...
...then start looking for keyboards that fit your criteria. I will say, above all, don't settle on key switch type, all the other stuff can be added or changed fairly easily. Size is probably the next most important decision (in some cases the priority of these two may be flipped).
If you come back with some of your wants/needs/budget we can start looking at specific keyboards you may have questions about!
I bought This Test kit for $14. It has a red, a black, a blue, and a brown key that you can press to see how it feels. It also comes with 0.4mm O-rings that you put on the underside of the keys to make it quiter/feel different. Before I bought this to test them out myself I, went solely on other peoples opinions of the keys; which is a mistake now that I tested them for myself. I always thought I wanted cherry reds since they are the most quiet. But holy shit the feeling of Cherry blues with the O-ring on it was amazing, I clicked it for hours and I would have missed out on the one I truly want now if not for the test kit.
I wouldn't absolutely say that, however it seems common because most users first mech ends up being a $100 gaming keyboard from Razer, and 90% of those are MX blues.
I bought blues first and really loved them, but I've since moved onto MX Reds at home and Topre at work because I realized that the audible "click" wasn't what I enjoyed the most about the keyboard, but rather the tactile feel of the switch and just the more "enjoyable" typing experience.
As for finding out what you want, have you thought about buying a switch tester? Also, I highly recommend reading all the content on the sidebar in the wiki, it's actually REALLY helpful.
Alternatively, you could try to explain what you're looking for and I (or someone else) could try to point you in the right direction.
I think you'd like blue :) that's what I have and I believe it's the most popular (based on a couple polls I've seen here). If you aren't in a huge hurry to receive your keyboard, why don't you get a sampler set so you can test the different switch types?
Max Keyboard Keycap, Cherry MX Switch, O-Ring Sampler Tester Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E71W4O8/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_-I9Uub1WA195A
They aren't that difficult to come by, Amazon has the basic 4 for $10. Max Keyboard Keycap, Cherry MX Switch, O-Ring Sampler Tester Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E71W4O8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_AEtezb7JADR54
Edit: 9 switch tester for $18. Akwox 9-Key Cherry MX Switch Tester, Keycap puller, keyboard Keycap, O-Ring Sampler Tester Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GZHU1EG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ZyuezbTNBCSFB
Yeah, now that ive put my self out there... I cant find it either.
Spent the last half hour or so trying to find the video that I heard that in with zero success.
It was recent as well. Not sure if it was Jayztwocents, linus, pauls hardware, franks, or some other video.
That said, I did find these:
You can check with local stores as well, they may have one on hand.
Ill keep an ear and eye out to see if I can find the info about the sampler/credit deal.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E71W4O8/
I bought this and it was a decent way to decide which type of switch I wanted
Or something like this if you want something a little cheaper.
In the market for my first mechanical keyboard sometime between now and the end of the year.
I ordered a switch tester and decided I'd like my first keyboard to use Cherry MX Red switches. (Switch Tester for the curious: https://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8)
What I'm (hopefully) looking to get:
I'm in the US and do live by a microcenter in case that offers anything.
I'm trying to keep my budget around $150, and because this is my first mech and will be my only one for a while, I'm okay with pushing around that border a little bit.
I have my eyes set on the Ducky One TKL RGB currently, which as far as I'm aware will be available early november.
Thanks for any help! Much appreciated.
Can be found here.
Test it out! A few bucks is worth getting the right $100-200 keyboard.
I ended up going with the Reds in my k70rgb. No regrets, very nice to type on, very nice to game on, very pleasant actuation. The detent on the browns felt "grindy" to me, while the Reds are nice and smooth. The Blues annoyed the hell out of me.
You may want to check out something like this http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8
Get a feel for the difference yourself. Mechanical switches are all about personal preference.
Never used one myself, but I've heard stories. IF you want a modern Keyboard I recommend the Corsair K70, I've had it for over 2 years and no signs of wear yet. Bought it for 129.99 on Amazon. I went with the MX Blue switch, but there are many types available. And they light up, so that is cool too. You want also sample the switches before buying.
K70 Keyboard- http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_4?url=search-alias%3Daps&fieldkeywords=k70+keyboard&sprefix=k70+%2Caps%2C207
Keyboard Switch Sample- http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1452263825&sr=8-4&keywords=mechanical+switches
http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8
Worth the money to make sure imo
You might want to grab one of these testers (if you decide to sell the reds and try another switch)
http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8
Personally, I like the browns the best.
or
the first one has all the typical switches, but the second one has more edit: seems they both have orings, they're just not pictured on the smaller one
they're are from here: http://www.maxkeyboard.com/products/parts-and-accesssories/sampler-kit.html
and I think places like newegg have them as well, so there's lots of options.
since you're going to drop a lot of money on the keyboard, the sampler is really worth it.
If you don't have access to a B&M like Microcenter or Frys you can always purchase this
http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8
well worth it. yes if it has cherry brand switches, it's mechanical.
Try a switch tester like this one.
That's a stupid reason to buy a Mech Keyboard. Just buy the 12ish dollar desk thing that has all the mechanical keys.
EDIT: Here it is: http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8
There's a 4 switch tester by Max Keyboard at amazon for 12.99. Looks like there's limited quantity on it too.
Buy one of these first: http://smile.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8?sa-no-redirect=1
Or better yet, go somewhere that sells mechanical keyboards and try them out for a bit.
You might want to grab one of these - http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8
You might want to get one of these. I got one and its Awesome. Now I know exactly what key switch I want.
If your shopping around, best to get some hands on experience with the most important part of a mechanical keyboard.
http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8
It has the four most common chery mx mechanical keyboard switches, I used it to see what kind of switches I liked
In order to SLI you need the same PCB design, so as long as the PCB is reference it should be fine. But they also need to be clocked the same. Some have factory overclocked versions like in EVGA SC. I have not done it so don't quote me on that though.
Depends on how you purchased it. They come in both versions anyways, but the thumb drive way is easier and faster.
Quality of the display depend on the panel not the connectors. They're mostly there for accessibility. HDMI is universal, so they're easy to be plugged into any systems. VGA are very old but they're still used in many server rooms in companies around the world.
You don't need to turn on v-sync. G-sync already works like v-sync in max refresh rate of the monitor. It just adjusts refresh rate corresponding to the fps change in your application.
I wouldn't know, because I don't use air cooling but AIO or custom water loops are better as far as performance goes. You can't compare them. AIO is basically maintenance free so it is overall better.
To answer the question short, you wouldn't notice much at all. And it's not worth paying for extra premium if you're going to game. I explained to different question a few days ago here.
Mainly the premium motherboards have more USB ports, more aesthetic upgrade, may have more m.2 slots, better components on resistors and voltage control, better quality overall. They're mostly for the people who just want to max out, as $150 motherboards will do just fine anyways. And most of the X-series motherboards are targeted towards people who want to 2-way SLI or even more, so they have more x16 PCI-e slots, even though that's not at all needed. People pay premium to feel like they have crazy beast in their rig.
Of course it's personal preference. They generally range from blue to red/silent. The difference is their actuation time, how they feel and most importantly to me, the sound. Blue switches make a lot of noise and if you have people around you they will hate you a lot. They also feel very clicky and many people like it. Browns make less noise but feel a bit like blue. This switch is mostly where people start or stay. But if you happen to bottom out (or in other words, press all the way down) when typing, you'll still make much noise. Red is very light and silent, fast actuation time, so it is very easy to press the keys so there are many accidental presses when using them according to people. I personally use romer-g keys from Logitech, which most mech key people hate because they feel somewhat like normal keyboards with a bit of "mush" but I didn't find them uncomfortable at all. They're still good keys and just need the round keycap ordered. You can order a tester kit to find out a bit if you'd like.
I think I have one of these.
What's your offer?
Hey man, cool that you're looking into an upgrade!
You said you wanted 10Keyless, i believe CMstorm has some good ones (also one that is reduced in size because the numpad and arrow keys are merged [Quickfire TK] if you want to look into that), corsair also have some good keyboards i've heard and so does logitech but i'm not sure if either of those have TKL versions.. DAS-keyboard and ducky are probably the best built keyboards out there at this time.
I personally use MX blue switches and i've been told many times that red switches are best for gaming in general. if you want you can look into a few tester switches to see what suits you best (http://www.amazon.com/Max-Keyboard-Keycap-Cherry-Sampler/dp/B00E71W4O8).
Feel free to ask me more questions about this matter if you feel the need to do so :)
Here you go!