The best mechanical keyboards in the UK 2023

Criticized for the noise of its keys, the mechanical keyboard is nevertheless essential for gamers. Its exceptional responsiveness is well worth this little noise inconvenience! And according to our research and comparisons, you won't find better models than the ones proposed in this comparison. Less noisy than the average mechanical keyboard, their keys are among the most responsive.

Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum 1
9/10

Best value for money

Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum

The best mechanical keyboard in 2021

The Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum builds on the strengths of its predecessor, the G910 Orion Spark, while reducing the size. This translates into a more powerful gaming keyboard that's easier on the eyes and easier to hold.

69,51 £ on Amazon

The Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum is a mechanical gamer keyboard that is almost visually identical to the Orion Spark. It features the same full-size keyboard layout, with a 10-key numeric keypad, an Arx smartphone dock, dedicated media controls, nine macro keys, and three interchangeable profile keys. It also retains Logitech's Romer-G mechanical switches and 113-key toggle.

Compared to the Spark, however, the Spectrum returns to your typical slightly concave keycap design. The second design change involves the Spectrum's removable wrist rest. The Romer-G switches on this Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum are tactile, responsive and relatively quiet. This translates into a smooth typing experience. Finally, the myriad of lighting options allow for different preferences. But overall, the G910 is best suited for hardcore gamers.

Redragon K552-KR 2
8/10

Best value for money

Redragon K552-KR

The best entry-level mechanical keyboard

The Redragon K552-RGB features ultra-sensitive touch switches and a simple, functional TenKeyLess design. Its build quality and RGB illumination for each key compete with keyboards that cost twice as much.

43,99 £ on Amazon

The Redragon K552 benefits from excellent build quality, using a mix of hard plastic and metal. This makes the keyboard heavy, but sturdy, with no signs of flexing. The ABS plastic keys are stable, but the space bar has a slight wobble. The Redragon K552 has full RGB backlighting for each key. But since there's no official software support yet, customization will be done directly on the keyboard. You can browse 18 lighting effects and set individual key colors.

The Redragon K552 has proper ergonomics. It has a tilt adjustment and the keyboard has a fairly high profile, which may require a wrist rest for optimal comfort; however, it does not come with one. On the other hand, this mechanical keyboard has very few features although there are shortcuts for multimedia control and a Windows lock keyboard shortcut to avoid accidentally minimizing your game.

Corsair K100 RGB 3
9/10

Best value for money

Corsair K100 RGB

The best high-end mechanical keyboard

The Corsair K100 RGB stands out for its precision and comfortable typing. In addition, this mechanical keyboard has a padded wrist rest, internal storage and a programmable control wheel.

200 £ on Amazon

The Corsair K100 RGB is perfect for gaming, but it also comes in handy for office work and programming thanks to its unmatched typing comfort. The base of this high-end mechanical keyboard looks very similar to the K95, with the same premium quality, overall design, the same macro keys on the left side, the same metal roll in the upper right corner, the same multimedia keys just below, and the same double-tap keycaps.

However, the Corsair K100 RGB has much better RGB lighting, integral to this version. In total, there are now 44 zones in which you can project light. As for the switches themselves, they are Corsair's new OPX optical-mechanical switches. These switches are perfect for grabbing, with a 1mm actuation point and 45g actuation force at a distance of 1.2mm.

Royal Kludge RK61 4
8/10

Compact

Royal Kludge RK61

A great compact mechanical keyboard

The Royal Kludge RK61 is a relatively affordable, top-notch mechanical keyboard. In addition to its exceptional typing, it offers many features and has exceptional build quality in a great compact size.

92 £ on Amazon
Buying guide • November 2023

Best mechanical keyboard

Any specific needs?

The best mechanical keyboard in 2021

The best entry-level mechanical keyboard

The best high-end mechanical keyboard

A great compact mechanical keyboard

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Comparison table of the best mechanical keyboards

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum 5
9/10
Redragon K552-KR 6
8/10
Corsair K100 RGB 7
9/10
Royal Kludge RK61 8
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum
Redragon K552-KR
Corsair K100 RGB
Royal Kludge RK61
The Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum builds on the strengths of its predecessor, the G910 Orion Spark, while reducing the size. This translates into a more powerful gaming keyboard that's easier on the eyes and easier to hold.
The Redragon K552-RGB features ultra-sensitive touch switches and a simple, functional TenKeyLess design. Its build quality and RGB illumination for each key compete with keyboards that cost twice as much.
The Corsair K100 RGB stands out for its precision and comfortable typing. In addition, this mechanical keyboard has a padded wrist rest, internal storage and a programmable control wheel.
The Royal Kludge RK61 is a relatively affordable, top-notch mechanical keyboard. In addition to its exceptional typing, it offers many features and has exceptional build quality in a great compact size.
Attractive, customizable lighting
Surprisingly good build quality
Premium build quality
Great value for money
9 dedicated macro keys
Full, customizable RGB backlighting
Integral RGB
Bluetooth 3.0 wireless connectivity
Toggle at 113 keys
12 function keys
Reactive optical switches
RGB rainbow backlighting

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Buying guide - mechanical keyboard

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How to choose your mechanical keyboard

Not all mechanical keyboards are created equal. The reason for this is the presence of several models made of unreliable materials. To help you in your choice, we have listed some basic characteristics to take into account.

#1 - The design

Since this is a device that you will use all year round, it is important to choose a mechanical keyboard with a nice design. Here, this criterion encompasses several points that should be taken into account.

  • Build quality: Keyboards designed with an aluminum chassis are more robust, as they do not bend. In addition, they have a better finish than plastic models. In addition, a plastic chassis will produce more noise than its aluminum counterparts.
  • Weight: Some models are quite heavy. This can directly affect your comfort of use. During your work, you may need to reposition your device to optimize your hand position. It is advisable to choose a lightweight model.
  • Key quality: First of all, choosing keys with a pleasant texture and with a non-flat surface will prevent your fingers from slipping.
  • Gamer: A gamer mechanical keyboard should have directional keys (Z, Q, S, D) of different colors.
  • Anti-slip: Cheap models tend to slip when you work on them with a certain level of force. To avoid this, it is better to choose a keyboard with good suction cups and legs on the front to effectively adjust the height of the product.

#2 - The size

If you intend to use your mechanical keyboard more for office work, it will be wise to choose standard models with a numeric keypad. This will eliminate the need to constantly press the SHIFT button to access numbers. For home use, buy a multimedia keyboard that has shortcuts to things like the music player or your e-mails. Both of these models can also be suitable for gamers.

If you don't have enough space on your desk, choose the models without a numeric keypad, or Ten Key Less. They are compact and lightweight. Moreover, this category of keyboard is very well suited to gamers. The mouse will be closer to the keyboard and it favors, optimizes, the functioning of your hands.

#3 - The convenience

PrioritizeUSB models to PS/2! Current motherboards no longer support PS/2 ports. They are cheaper, but installation will be more difficult, you will have to buy an adapter. Also, choosing a detachable cable, at the keyboard, will give you flexibility of use. This is not a requirement, but it is a plus not to be neglected. After hours of working on a keyboard, the wrists are the most put to contribution and one feels a numbness. The presence of a hand rest can prevent this. This kit is present on ergonomic mechanical keyboards.

#4 - The backlighting

More and more people are opting for backlit keyboards. We must admit thatthey look better and improve the visual of your PC setup. On Gamers keyboards, the different colors allow gamers to quickly spot the different categories of keys. However, this is not recommended for equipping computers in the office or in a coworking space.

#5 - The cable

This criterion depends on your needs. The wired models will not have a problem connecting via the Bluetooth receiver. But, the latter allow you to move it, on the desk, as you wish without having to unplug the cable behind the computer. In any case, assess your needs and choose the model that will fit. Mechanical keyboards make noise because of the switches. If you're looking for a quieter model, we recommend you opt for brown switches like the Cherry MX Brown.

What is anti-ghosting?

There is a basic bug, if you can call it that, in mechanical or membrane computer keyboards. On the first day of the keyboard, manufacturers did not necessarily think about the advent of Gamers. To better explain the phenomenon, here is an example.

If you press D, you will not be able to use the keys in the same column and row simultaneously. So, in our example the unusable keys are :

  • Column: Q, S, F, G, H, J, K, L and M ;
  • Line: E and C.

You can only use them if you release the D key completely. This is called ghosting. In the office, this is not dramatic, but for a gamer it is. So, if you are used to gaming, moderately to intensively, it is more than advisable to choose mechanical keyboards with anti-ghosting.

Linear mechanical keyboard or touch keyboard?

Linear switches

On a mechanical keyboard, the buttons are independent, as the keys have individual switches. When you press a key, it springs back into place. Here, you have to press the key all the way down in order to get an answer. This type of key has the particularity of being more fluid, corresponding well to MMORPG players. The best switches are the Cherry Mx Black and Mx Red.

Touch switches

The mechanical touch keyboards are based on the mechanism of the linear types with one detail. The point of activation of the key is shortened thanks to a Bump. This mechanism increases the response time of the keys and you will feel the effect of the bump when using it. The advantage is that the keys are precise and you will make fewer mistakes, because it requires less pressure. The mechanisms to watch closely are the Cherry, specifically the Mx Brown. For the office, it's perfect!

Verdict

Both types of mechanical keyboards are suitable for office use or gaming. The difference will be in the feel depending on your experience level. For example, for a smoother game mode, pro gamers will choose a linear model. Touchscreens are also suitable, but some point to the short strokes that can break if too much pressure is applied. But, these types of keys accelerate the typing speed.

Tips

Anti-ghosting

If the Anti-ghosting problem persists on a mechanical keyboard, consider updating the driver of your device. In most cases, it is the gamer models that have this option.

Clean your keyboard

It'

s vital to clean your mechanical keyboard regularly. With the help of a cloth, clean the surface of your peripheral so that dust doesn't get embedded in it. If there is any debris blocking your keys, turn the hardware over and give it a little shake.

Bluetooth receiver

If

you have problems when using a wireless mechanical keyboard, remove the BT receiver and start the sync process again. If the device name does not appear in the Windows Devices panel, try updating the drivers on your PC. If these methods fail, you will need to purchase a more powerful BT receiver or manually install the keyboard.

Azerty or Qwerty?

If

you have a mechanical AZERTY keyboard, you can switch to Qwerty mode by pressing SHIFT + ALT. In order to return to the initial mode, you just have to redo the manipulation. However, when you switch to another mode the positioning of the letters on the keyboard will not change.

Add keyboard languages

To

change the dot on the numeric keypad to a comma, simply change the language to Belgian French. Go to the control panel and choose the option Time and Language. There, move the cursor down and click on Add Language.

FAQ

What is the best mechanical keyboard?

The best mechanical keyboard depends on your needs and your budget. Read our buying guide for the best products out there.

What is the difference between a mechanical and membrane keyboard?

On

a membrane keyboard, the keys are dependent on each other because they are connected by a plate, the membrane. On this plate, you have several holes with a rubber dome. When you press a key, you activate the dome that allows the action to be transmitted. On a mechanical model, you will have spring switches positioned under each key.

What is a TKL mechanical keyboard?

The

term TKL stands for Ten Key Less. This type of keyboard does not have a numeric keypad. To learn more about these features, read our full guide.

What is a gamer keyboard?

A

Gamer keyboard must meet certain criteria: responsive and sensitive keys, solid and durable. It turns out that only the mechanical keyboard can meet the expectations of pro Gamers.

What is a rollover?

We

can find mechanical keyboards with a Rollover of 3, 6 or 8. On the 6 models, no key is missed when you press a combination of 6 keys.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. The Switches, claviers-mecaniques.fr
  2. Choose the best mechanical switches for your keyboard, guide-gamer.fr
  3. How do you choose the best keyboard for you?, extremetech.com
  4. How to Choose the Best Mechanical Keyboard (and Why You'd Want To), dygma.com
  5. A Complete Guide To Mechanical Keyboards - Smashing Magazine, coolblue.nl
  6. Gaming Keyboards: what are they for and why should you buy them?, lifehacker.com
  7. Mechanical keyboard or membrane keyboard? The Guide, smashingmagazine.com
  8. What is a mechanical keyboard?, rotek.fr
  9. Amazon.com : mechanical keyboard, mon-set-up-gaming.fr
  10. Best Mechanical Keyboards 2021 - Test and Comparison, dailycious.info
  11. Mechanical keyboard - Buy PC keyboard at the best price ..., amazon.co.uk
  12. Mechanical keyboard - Top Buy, futura-sciences.com
  13. Mechanical keyboard & yunk™, materiel.net
  14. Mechanical keyboard : the 7 best models in November 2021, topachat.com
  15. Mechanical Gamer Keyboard - Free Shipping* | Boulanger, yunk.fr
  16. A mechanical keyboard but what exactly is it ...., jide.fr
  17. Amazon.co.uk : mechanical keyboard, boulanger.com
  18. TOP : The best cheap mechanical gamer keyboard of the moment, rueducommerce.fr
  19. Gaming keyboards | RGB and Wireless keyboards | CORSAIR, amazon.co.uk
  20. Gamer keyboard - 1 hour in store* | Boulanger, clavier-mecanique.com
  21. mechanical keyboard news infos and tests Fnac.com, corsair.com
  22. Gamer keyboard mechanical keyboard - Darty, boulanger.com
  23. Mechanical keyboard : Your best comparison ! ..., fnac.com
  24. PC Keyboard : The Mechanical Keyboard : Buying guide test and ..., darty.com
  25. Mechanical keyboard gamer : The real advantages and the ..., mon-clavier-mecanique.com
  26. Gaming keyboard Razer : Mechanical keyboards Keyboard without ..., monclaviergamer.fr
  27. Gaming keyboards - Wireless mechanical RGB without pad ...., clavier-mecanique.com
  28. Mini mechanical keyboard - Cdiscount, razer.com
  29. Best mechanical keyboards 2021 - buying guide and ..., logitechg.com
  30. Gaming keyboards - Our bluetooth and mechanical collection ..., cdiscount.com
  31. What's the point of a mechanical keyboard? | ConsoXP - Quebec, bfmtv.com
  32. , gamer-univers.fr
  33. , consoxp.com
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum 9
Logitech G910 Orion Spectrum
Redragon K552-KR 10
Redragon K552-KR
Corsair K100 RGB 11
Corsair K100 RGB
Royal Kludge RK61 12
Royal Kludge RK61

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