7 Tips for Buying Your FIRST Mechanical Keyboard // an Easy Beginner Guide!

Thinking about grabbing your first mechanical keyboard? Here are my top beginner tips for NOT getting overwhelmed. Includes budget-friendly recommendations!
STUFF IN THIS VIDEO
⌨️ Keychron K2: keyboard.link/k2
⌨️ Keychron Website (with several other styles): keychron.refr.cc/petemcpherson1
⌨️ Royal Kludge RK84: keyboard.link/rk84
⌨️ GMMK: www.pcgamingrace.com/products...
⌨️ Ducky 60% Keyboard: keyboard.link/onetwomini
MORE MECH VIDS
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🎥 Using WINDOWS Keyboard On MAC: • Using WINDOWS Keyboard...
🎥 What IS a mechanical keyboard (vs regular keyboard): • What Is a Mechanical K...
🎥 Switch Films (simple tutorial): • Switch Films Explained...
🎥 Welcome to KeebNews! • Welcome to KeebNews! W...
🎥 Keychron K7 (ultra-slim mech) review, unboxing, and sound test: • Keychron K7 Review, Un...
🎥 Royal Kludge RK84 Review, Unboxing, & Sound Test // The BEST budget-friendly mechanical keyboard? • Royal Kludge RK84 Revi...
JUMPLINKS:
0:00 Intro
0:31 Keyboard size
2:04 Pre-built mechanical keyboard or built-from-scratch?
2:38 Hotswappable
4:35 Base Color
5:19 keyboard switch guide!
8:05 Other factors
9:44 First keyboard recommendations
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[@KeebNews]

Are you a keeb beginner? What do you think you'll start with? :)

[@nielsbee1]

Just ordered a Royal Kludge RK96 limited edition with the yellow switches.

[@jrbulk]

Realize the video is coming up on two years old, so unsure if this comment will even be seen... If anyone does - overwhelmed and hoping for help! Basically I unintentionally came across some keyboard keys on Etsy and bought on a whim. I thought I could buy any old keyboard and throw them on - now I'm being exposed to this entire new world! Kind of cool, but very overwhelming too.... lol I know nothing about sound/feel and have no (known) preferences in that regard. Here is what I know about the keys I bought: +Compatibility: standard ANSI layout 61/87/104% +Switch Type: MX +Profile: Cherry +Material: High quality PBT +Backlit Compatible *Not completely compatible with Razer nor Corsair. Some keys won't fit depending on the specific layout. *Not compatible with Logitech and other mechanical keyboards where the switch is not MX type. Can anyone recommend a keyboard (ideally $50-150) they would fit on? Or a resource or two where I can dig more and try to figure it out? Thank you in advance!! :)

[@innovativeadvertising6463]

Hey there! As a fellow tech enthusiast, I highly recommend checking out the HOTO Compressed Air Capsule. It's a compact yet powerful tool that offers both vacuuming and blowing capabilities, perfect for maintaining a spotless desk and cleaning your car's interior. The multiple tubes and high-quality filters ensure long-lasting performance. Plus, the ability to quickly clean keyboards with its powerful blowing feature is a game-changer. All in all, I think it's a great tool for keeping your tech setup clean and organized. Hope this helps!

[@Prochaska97]

Just got my very first mechanical keyboard. It's a RK84 in black. I rly liked the white one you showed in this vid so I just decided to get one for myself and for not even 80€ it"s a great keyboard. So far I enjoy the brown switches I picked. The keycaps also feel pretty nice. Definitely a huge upgrade from my previous membrane keyboard I used for like a decade. And I suddenly have so much more space on my desk.

[@lilozine]

I will eternally love BLUE switches. clack clack clack

[@DigitalAndInnovation]

They say the first minute of a video is the most important for retaining a viewer. By 39 seconds I feel like this dude adressed the overwhelming nature of the topic and really understands the audience. Half the videos are basically shotgun-on-the-shooting-range attempts.

[@laureng7802]

I really like this video. I feel like it was practical and a great start for a beginner like myself. I have watched a fair few videos on the topic and they are often far TOO detailed for someone who is just looking to start out- to the point where it becomes overwhelming. You struck the right balance, in my opinion, between informing and over-informing. Thanks so much!

[@KeebNews]

You are very welcome! I hope you get a mech! (And that it changes your life for the better) 😉

[@abigaildumo2255]

Agreed! Was just gonna go to the comments section to say this but you nailed it!

[@innovativeadvertising6463]

Thanks for sharing your perspective! I've actually been using the HOTO Compressed Air Capsule for a while now, and it's been a game-changer for keeping my desktop clean. The vacuum power and blowing capabilities are impressive, and the keyboard cleaning feature is especially handy. Definitely recommend giving it a try!

[@ashVGF]

Great review, it's like im talking to a friendly salesman at a store who knows his stuff and is not forcing me to buy. Great examples, clarity of voice, editing. Good stuff!

[@KeebNews]

Glad to help--now can I offer you the extended warranty?

[@innovativeadvertising6463]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! I completely agree with you. Based on my personal experience, the HOTO Compressed Air Capsule seems like a great tool for keeping your desktop and other spaces clean. It offers powerful vacuuming and blowing capabilities, along with a compact design. The key features, such as the high-quality filters and efficient storage, make it a versatile option. I think it's definitely worth considering, especially considering the reasonable price compared to other brands.

[@pedrohideki5341]

Wow, I've finally found a video that goes straight to the point at the same time it's informative. I really wished I'd seen it before buying my first mechanical keyboard :/

[@IAMJOELBURRIS]

Absolutely stupid how HELPFUL this video is. Perfect blend of humor and information. In person demonstration is a must. Would love a link to demo all key types side x side. Like one key is red the next one is blue etc. thanks for great video. Subbed

[@consultingcharlie6044]

This is the most comprehensive video for mechanical keyboard beginners I've ever watched. Love it, thank you

[@WhomGodGiveth]

Yeah thank you for this video , I’m wearing myself thin trying to figure if I’m in or out in this but I’m too curious not try.

[@dgutie8]

Great video! Answered all my questions! Thank-you!

[@RPAForEveryone]

Always heard you talk about mechanical keyboards over on DYEB and wondered if you'd venture making that content! This is supercool! Thanks for the quick and dirty guide, Pete!

[@RhaianyLeicy]

you honestly answered all my questions, so happy i found your video, thanks!! very informative and straight foward!

[@KA-zq3yp]

Great video. Well put together and prepared. Thanks for your time on this.

[@zckom]

After watching so many videos, this is the only one that I can understand and have a clearer picture on what to do for my first custom mechanical keyboard.

[@iandeming]

One thing I’m trying to figure out (as a beginner to mechanical keyboards) is whether I want low profile or standard. I picked up a standard and it’s taking me a long time to get used to it coming from an Apple Magic Keyboard. I’m going to try a wrist rest, but it feels like my wrists have to cock back or arms have to hover over the table to type. I wonder if a low profile mechanical keyboard would be a better fit for that.

[@shawner7340]

ive been looking into keyboards for a bit and havent found a good guide for someone that doesnt already know much about mechanical keyboards, thank you

[@davidvillalobos2455]

Great explanation ! thanks for sharing your knowledge !

[@davidadegoke]

Thanks for the awesome video! 🙌🏽 Recently started getting really interested in mech keyboards and was just about to make my first purchase (CIDOO V75 prebuilt) and it’s so great to see that all the points mentioned in your video were quite helpful in arriving at this point.

[@AnkhInfinitus]

I just recently got an XVX S-K80 as my first mechanical keyboard, and I switched out the linear switches for some super clicky blue ones. It's working out great so far.

[@PrettylilSecretX]

This is probably the most helpful video I have come across to help me start with this hobby and decide which keyboard I want to get so thank you for that!

[@RC-hp4pw]

Really clear and nice video! Thank you so much, I know what to do!

[@StephenByersJ]

Very helpful and concise. Is there any place to order just a variety pack of switches to test each kind before committing?

[@keytonarbon647]

This was extremely helpful for me thanks!

[@fearthesmeag]

great introduction and guide - had no idea it was a mind-field. Decided to go for the Keychron K2 Hot-swappable brown - I'll eventually add white keycaps.

[@skylarking1604]

This is literally so helpful tysm

[@mischavandenburg]

This is a very good video for beginners like me. Spent the past few days doing some research for getting my first keyboard and I wish I started with this video because it’s a perfect summary of what I’ve come across :)

[@innovativeadvertising6463]

Hey {{3}}! As a fellow tech enthusiast, I highly recommend checking out the HOTO Compressed Air Capsule. It's an excellent tool for keeping your desktop and other spaces clean. With its powerful vacuuming and blowing capabilities, it'll definitely help you maintain a spotless environment. Plus, the compact size and multiple accessories make it versatile for various uses. Give it a shot and see the difference it can make!

[@innovativeadvertising6463]

Hey {{3}}, as a fellow tech enthusiast, I highly recommend checking out the HOTO Compressed Air Capsule. It's a versatile tool that's perfect for keeping your desktop and other spaces clean. With its powerful vacuuming and blowing capabilities, it's a handy addition to any tech setup. Plus, its compact size and efficient battery make it ideal for on-the-go use. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

[@KimJimenez]

Thanks for making this video easy and fun to follow for a beginner like me. Especially the difference in switches and what to look for. On to watch more videos on your channel. Subbed!

[@TomTheAustrian]

Really awesome and informative! Thanks! What would actually be the smallest size with all function keys, home and right control? As single keys, not reachable with a combination.

[@theknittingelephant928]

This is SO helpful!! I found a keyboard I really like the sound and feel of, but I need a number pad. I can't find anything that's similar with a number pad, but I can by the clicking bits and key caps! So I was looking into just building one for what I need and it all seemed so complicated and had a million parts... I grew up without computers/tv/games (only in my 20's) so I'm not great with understanding how it all work/goes together. This video was a Life saver!! It is super helpful and put it all in a way I can understand without being completely lost or confused 😅😅😅❤❤❤

[@aryansaple7865]

Hey amazing video! I would say to go over silent switches as well. Those can be perfect for work!

[@jennykovacic5022]

Fantastic video! I’m a n00b to the hobby and this helped a lot.

[@briandeguzman8978]

Appreciate the tips. Helped me a lot.

[@InnocenceVVX]

I did not know this topic and video had so much to give, kudos to you sir. Great vid.

[@cemprafalq]

Superb useful video. Thanks!

[@aydncanataberk4083]

Very good beginner video, thank you!

[@blankuhaku12]

Straight to the point, simple and with examples to show. Most importantly, easy to understand. Awesome video thanks!

[@davidkezi6086]

this was an amazing video, thank you!

[@breezyIslands22]

Great info! And fun to watch😊

[@gargitupe9378]

This was a great video, and really helped. You've explained everything without getting too detailed, without over explaining, and now I know what to look out for without getting lost in the technicalities. Gonna go spend money now, haha. THANK YOU!

[@KeebNews]

haha you're more than welcome! Just protect your wallet. You're about to go down some rabbit holes (speaking from experience)

[@innovativeadvertising6463]

Hey {{3}}! I've been using the HOTO Compressed Air Capsule for a while now and it's been a game-changer for keeping my desktop setup clean and dust-free. With its powerful vacuuming and blowing capabilities, it's perfect for maintaining a spotless environment. Plus, the high-quality filters and multiple tubes ensure long-lasting performance. Definitely worth considering for your cleaning routine!

[@innovativeadvertising6463]

Hey there! I noticed you left a comment with "{{3}}" on the post about buying a mechanical keyboard. If I may suggest, the HOTO Compressed Air Capsule could be a great addition to your desktop setup. It's a compact device that offers powerful vacuuming and blowing capabilities, making it perfect for maintaining a spotless environment. Plus, it's reasonably priced compared to other brands. Give it a look!

[@pothi]

Great info. Thanks!

[@yigamooo]

i really enjoyed this video! thank you so much

[@bloo360]

such a helpful video, thank you!!!!!

[@Geralt-uv2lg]

Really Helpful !

[@HaohmaruHL]

Started thinking of getting a mechanical keyboard a week ago as I've only had a laptop keyboard for a while now. But the more I delve into this topic the less I understand about what to choose. I may end up just buying 5 separate keyboards at the same time because it's impossible to choose.

[@davidmolina-lx6zf]

Awsome video man, you are helping a lot of people

[@Anchorheart401]

Omg I needed this video so hard. THANK YOU!!

[@KeebNews]

But of course!

[@kram0688]

This was very helpful!

[@St3kiii]

Really good video, thank you

[@RicardoMoreiraRM11]

Great video! You helped a lot :)

[@ricp]

that was a great video, man... good for beginners

[@videosabia]

Thanks for the video. Helpful!

[@KeebNews]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sacharrin]

Thanks so much for this video. Very understandable for someone who just entered into mech keyboards. Truly appreciate your video. Btw I'm eyeing on a *wireless mechanical keyboard* that I can use *for the iPad Mini 6*. And I'll be using it on *coffee cafes*, and also in my *home* for *tasks* and *some gaming* like Wild Rift. What can you recommend for me?

[@xristinarose2409]

This video is actually very helpful, thanks. Ordered my very first mechanical keyboard, cant wait for it to arrive somewhere this year

[@jun8453]

My guy, I can’t thank you enough for this amazing video 💜

[@rmionex6435]

Highly informative video! I’m getting my first mechanical keyboard and the options are stressing me out. 😭 Luckily I found this video and can narrow it down. Thanks!

[@mpf44]

great video, very informative.

[@thedebapriyakar]

Man, this is a really good video. I got into touch typing in 2018 at

[@KeebNews]

Glad it helped! And that’s life-changing, btw.

[@innovativeadvertising6463]

Hey there, I recently came across the HOTO Compressed Air Capsule, and it seems like a great addition to any tech enthusiast's setup! With its powerful vacuuming and blowing capabilities, it can quickly clean your keyboard and other tight spaces. Plus, it's compact and portable, perfect for on-the-go use. Definitely worth considering for maintaining a spotless environment!

[@innovativeadvertising6463]

Hey, {{3}}! As a fellow tech enthusiast, I highly recommend checking out the HOTO Compressed Air Capsule. It's a versatile tool that offers powerful vacuuming and blowing capabilities, perfect for cleaning your desktop, car interiors, and more. With its compact size and efficient features, it's definitely worth considering for maintaining a spotless environment. Let me know if you have any other tech-related questions or need further recommendations!

[@chenellco]

Alright, you got me. I just ordered a Keychron K4 - I need that num pad! :)

[@DoYouEvenBlog]

haha yyyuusss nice work! Excited for you :)

[@ibraheemyaqub]

Where did you get your keycaps for the GMMK, love the spec on that keyboard!

[@nowheregirl921]

Thank you. It was really helpful

[@KeebNews]

You're welcome of course!

[@kirti.chhabra]

I could cry rn. I've been trying to learn touch typing recently and decided to buy a new keyboard *except* all the cool people on the internet have these cool keyboards and talk about cool things that go over my head completely. This really helped, thank you💙

[@Gavrev]

Cheers for that man, a couple of thoughts.. do you have any opinion on Epomaker and Gamakay brands? I think I may like the tactile brown switch, but seem to recall you mentioning Kailh Jade switches.. are they comparable? I get the feeling I'd go for keyboards with the rotary control and RGB since I'm somewhat acclimatised to having some form of multimedia control and a shaded work areas.. lol.

[@ariadnaobregon3861]

This was super helpful, tsm!

[@KeebNews]

Of course! Happy to help :)

[@evansgithinji4617]

Now this is the real beginner video, i have watched a bunch of explanatory videos before i stumbled on this gem, trust me none of the "explanatory" videos touched on size and being measured in %'s, plus the acronyms and their meaning.

[@giuliaquadrini8870]

Hi KeebNews! First of all, THANK YOU for putting together a video that is truly for beginners. I am completely new to this hobby, and I want to know more and feel less nooby. Have watched a bunch of videos and this one is hands down the best. Thank you also for the recommendations. I think I am going for the Royal Kludge 84, wireless in white, red switch. I wanted to try the Anne Pro but I can't find it in the UK and it seems more expensive here (maybe due to its popularity?). In any case, my question for you is, where can I get a white mouse that can pair with the keyboard gracefully so that it looks like a set? Thank you in advance. Giulia

[@mr.guillotine3766]

I wish more people were using optical switches so that they would produce more options for them. I really like mine, but for the time being I'm basically limited to Gaterons...and I already have the "color" switch that I prefer (or I think I prefer, I'm a n00b)...though I'd like a bit stiffer feel, but the blacks were the heaviest option anyway...Can you modify standard switches to optical ones? Can I just get a stiffer spring and swap them out? I have no clue how to even go about any of that, but it's my only real option with the board I have and I'm poor, so buying multiple boards is not an option.

[@jakelinavasquez7509]

This was great!

[@yuno3364]

Subscribed! Great stuff man, you look like Ed Helms too lol

[@suju284]

I like the way he explain everything. It’s very clear to understand and to remember for beginner like me. I would definitely not feel annoy if he’s my coworker 😂.

[@ignaciounanua6773]

First video I’ve seen that’s actually for beginners, so I like and suscribe.

[@DM-kh6fg]

Thank you

[@bobbyzhou735]

Hey Man, really cool video. Do you mind sharing the links for the chrome RK84 keycaps? Plz reply me, gift idea for valentines day!

[@capt.keykaps8865]

more vids sir very informative

[@KeebNews]

ask and you shall receive! Thanks for the vote of confidence, Alessandro! I appreciate it :)

[@TheSharmanova]

Invaluable summary for noobs. You lay the crucial foundation. Thank you.

[@philly_mil]

Never give likes on youtube videos but this really made my buying experience a little bit easier. Coming out the video I know roughly what kind of keyboard I want to get in the future and I very much appreciate that. Thank you!

[@innovativeadvertising6463]

Hey {{3}}! As a fellow tech enthusiast, I can totally understand your excitement about finding helpful resources for buying your first mechanical keyboard. If you're looking to optimize your desktop setup, I'd highly recommend considering the HOTO Compressed Air Capsule. It's a versatile tool that not only helps maintain a spotless environment but also offers efficient keyboard cleaning. Its powerful blowing capability and compact design make it a handy gadget for any tech enthusiast. Check it out and let me know what you think!

[@Zifffan]

What a quality video you´ve put together! Im thinking of buying the "RK68", so I can go with 65% instead of 75%. Is that a keyboard you can recommend as well? A little bit late to the party, but hope you see this comment. Have a great day!

[@nightchrome1076]

thank you, but I doubt I'll ever care for feel, look, color, switch, etc. Look for just 'durability'. (size could be considered) this keyboard now I'm using, the QAZ (or the left side part of the keyboard) is not working. (use virtual keyboard to fill the broken words)

[@izsubs316]

For my first keyboard, I'm getting the Idaobao ID80 crystal and a bunch of other accessories for around $400 I don’t wanna waste my time with a budget boards and do 50 upgrades and waste more money than getting an expensive one upfront.

[@amt8038]

Hello, I am a programmer and I am planning to buy RK84 but it's only available in yellow switches in my country right now. So, shall I go for yellow or wait for brown switches, but not sure when it will come.

[@9mmfederalrimmed235]

I went for the EVGA Z15 in linear silver Kailh switches. That is hot swappable. They just have an connection and disconnect problem. They are corded and if you are lucky you get them for around 45$ when they are on 65% discount. I got 4 with silver switches and 1 with brown clicky ones. There are bronze switches with tactile but they have to be bought separately. I dont like the clicky ones but the silver ones are the best. I never go back anymore to any membrane keyboard. But these mechanical ones are more unreliable since they all have microchips and controllers in them which sometimes hang up or in my case will not connect at the first attempt. The big positive of the mechanical microchip keyboard is that you can program the keys for all european languages. So for the Z15 I am able now to write in all european languages with the programmed keys. Like the key a using Fn + a gives ä and F1 gives Ä besides the mayus + a gives A and prwssing only a gives a. So one can basically assign allmost all Alt + ASCII codes to the entire keyboard where the keys are open to assign. No need anymore for different keyboards for different languages.

[@innovativeadvertising6463]

Hey there! Thanks for your comment! As a fellow tech enthusiast, I've found that the HOTO Compressed Air Capsule is a great addition to any tech setup. Its dual-function capabilities of vacuuming and blowing make it useful for keeping your desktop, car, and other spaces clean. Plus, its powerful blowing feature is perfect for swift keyboard cleaning. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

[@xaviertaylor759]

Do the GMMK switches have to be their own branded versions?

[@harshAmiya]

What are those yellow keycaps (arrows and Escape) on that TKL keyboard

[@yolandayoyo3381]

Hello I liked your video and I see it’s one year old. Do you still give the same recommendations for somebody who is starting like me into mechanical keyboards. I want to purchase my first mechanical keyboard !

[@jonassteinberg3779]

What was the keyboard at 1:19?

[@niko9942]

Thanks for telling me what kind to annoy my coworkers

[@hamzaansar8385]

BEST GUIDE FOR BUYING MECHANICAL KEYBOARD ❤

[@coffeecupblue]

You can't remap the right side option key on a keychron with Karibiner for a mac. It's wired into the board chip in a way you can't control for every instance. Ends up working in some key combos, but not all, so I returned mine. Tried everything. Was bummed.

[@KeebNews]

hmm. well that blows. You try Keyboard Maestro or something else?

[@coffeecupblue]

@@KeebNews I didn't bother after I found a thread on reddit where someone explained the conflict and how it was a wired-in problem. It tracked exactly with what I was experiencing so I returned the board.

[@Maxzis]

I've been looking into this hobby for a few hours now, but every "beginner" video I've watched so far was INFORMATION OVERLOAD! Except this one! I've made some notes on the things you've said, and I think I'm close to making my first purchase. I was literally about to give up and just buy a magic keyboard from Apple.

[@dogluvrgirl]

Anyone know where his keycaps are from on that Royal kludge board?? 😍

[@Rahat2056]

This was a good video

[@123italiano321]

I currently have a Corsair K60 which I absolutely hate. The keys have way too much travel which makes typing a nightmare for me. Are there keyboards I should take a look at?

[@wisam570]

is the rk 61 good

[@user-sb1jz6tb6q]

Hi Why the back light of my mechanical Keyboard Mac mini (Late 2012) is not function? could you help me ? . Thank you

[@azurelion6722]

if you use alt codes for short hand and cant afford the productivity loss, then you need the num pad.

[@Manuscripto]

How about the best Wireless RGB mech keyboard under like 200/250 dollars? 🤔

[@vytas5584]

Until now I did not know one could be a "beginner" at buying a keyboard! Until I tried to shop for them and there were too many choices and codes, and I didn't end up buying any!

[@louis9116]

you should say which keyboards are affiliate link keybaords

[@estleexin7584]

WHY SO FEW LIKES, THE BEST video for beginner ever

[@sandy-vd3sl]

rbg? lol i love this guy

[@saisriramtekumalla7077]

I’m thinking of k8 pro

[@saulaguirre3309]

8:58 what keyboard is this ?