There is no such thing as the “best” mechanical keyboard. You can find many of our favorites—mechanical or otherwise—in our Best Keyboards guide that suits various needs. These are great for people who want something that works and feels great. However, the keyboard is the most direct interface between us and our computers—it should be the most personalized. Not the most efficient, nor the “best” in any way. Find a keyboard you love and that speaks to you, and I can say almost for sure that you’ll be happier for it.

But getting into the world of mechanical keyboards can be overwhelming. Between switch types, mounting methods, materials, and the countless supporting modifications you can do, there's a lot to consider when putting your first keyboard together. Treat it like a hobby! With the right knowledge, it's not too difficult to build a keyboard that fits your exact needs. Here, I break down the terminology you'll come across and what it all means. However, the world of mechanical keyboards is deep, and it's impossible to cover it all in one guide or even an entire book. Instead, think of this as a starting point that covers what you absolutely need to know about keyboards.

Be sure to check out our Best Mechanical Keyboards, Best Hall Effect Keyboards, and Best Keyboards guides for our top recommendations.

Updated December 2025: We've expanded a few sections with new terminology and details.

What Are Switches?