Build the keyboard that clicks for you
Real gear picks for mechanical keyboards, switches, keycaps, and every mod that makes a board yours
- A common actuation force for linear switches like Cherry MX Red
- 45 gf
- Typical total travel of an MX-style switch
- 4 mm
- A compact layout that keeps arrows and the F-row, around 84 keys
- 75%
Top picks right now
Switch force
- Light about 35 to 45 gf
- Medium about 50 to 60 gf
- Heavy 65 gf and up
- Cherry MX Red 45, Brown 55, Blue 60
Actuation force, roughly gf = cN. Bottom-out force is higher, and springs and lube change feel.
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Keyboards
Prebuilt and custom mechanical keyboards in every size and layout.
Browse 18 guides →Switches
Linear, tactile, clicky, and silent switches for the feel you want.
Browse 10 guides →Keycaps
PBT, ABS, artisan, and profile keycap sets to personalize your board.
Browse 12 guides →Mods & Internals
Stabilizers, lube, films, and foam to tune sound and feel.
Browse 10 guides →Build Tools
Keycap and switch pullers, lube stations, and kits for building and modding.
Browse 5 guides →Cables & Accessories
Wrist rests, coiled cables, deskmats, and cases for a clean setup.
Browse 6 guides →Best buying guides
Best Clicky Mechanical Keyboards (2026)
Clicky mechanical keyboards with blue-style switches, from full-size and TKL to 60% and 75%. Compare layout, hot-swap support and noise before you buy.
Best Screw-In Stabilizers (2026)
Compare screw-in stabilizers that bolt to the PCB for the most stable, rattle-free long keys. Learn about fit, build quality and tuning.
Best Plate Foam (2026)
Compare plate foam that sits between switches and PCB to reduce ping and even out sound. Learn about thickness and switch mount compatibility.
Best Coiled Cables (2026)
Compare coiled USB cables for keyboards by connector, coil quality and detachable aviator options to match your board's look and daily use.
Best Wireless Mechanical Keyboards (2026)
Compare the best wireless mechanical keyboards with Bluetooth and 2.4GHz options, long battery life, and multi-device pairing for a clean desk.
Best Ortholinear Keyboards (2026)
Find the best ortholinear keyboards with grid-aligned keys that aim to reduce finger travel and offer a fresh, efficient typing experience.
Packing tips
All tips →Mechanical Keyboard Switch Chart
Actuation force in grams and travel distance for common Cherry MX switches, plus what linear, tactile, and clicky actually mean for typing feel.
How to Find a Good Mechanical Keyboard Deal During Holiday Sales
Holiday sales bring discounts on keyboards, switches and keycaps. How to plan, compare prices, check specifications and avoid deals that are not worth it.
How to Fix Keys That Stop Working After a Hot-Swap
Swapped switches and now some keys are dead? Bent pins, loose sockets, incompatible switches and plate issues are common causes with simple fixes.
How to Fix Lag and Disconnects on a Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Missed keystrokes, input delay and random disconnects on 2.4GHz or Bluetooth keyboards. Check interference, receiver placement, battery, firmware and settings.