Mechanical keyboards provide improved typing feedback, long-lasting durability and customisable features. They are more responsive than standard keyboards, ideal for gaming or typing all day. Shop our range of mechanical keyboards in Australia from top brands like Razer, SteelSeries and Logitech.
What is a mechanical keyboard?
Mechanical keyboards use individual switches under each key for better feedback, accuracy and durability. They’re popular gaming keyboards, and are great for heavy typing or anyone who wants more control than a standard membrane keyboard offers. Pick between different switch types, builds or wireless options to suit how you use your computer.
Best mechanical keyboard in Australia
The best mechanical keyboards last longer and offer fast, precise input for improved responsiveness. This makes them ideal for gamers, programmers and heavy typists. Pair with a gaming mouse and monitor for the most receptive, smooth performance or immersive gameplay.
However, they are usually less portable than standard keyboards, suited to bigger computer setups that stay in one place.
Key features of mechanical keyboards
Mechanical keyboards offer a range of features that set them apart from standard keyboards. These include:
Switch types
Different switches sound and feel different when you press the keys. Here’s a rundown of each type and who they’re best for:
- Linear: Smooth and quiet. Great for gaming.
- Tactile: Small bump on keypress. Balanced for gaming and typing.
- Clicky: Tactile with an audible click. Ideal for typing, but noisy.
Each switch type feels different, so choose based on how you use your keyboard.
Hot-swappability
Hot-swappable keyboards let you easily change out switches. They're good for testing different switch types or replacing faulty ones and are ideal for customisation or beginners.
Build quality
The materials and design of your mechanical keyboard impact durability and feel:
- Plastic or metal frames: metal offers more weight and stability, whereas plastic is lighter and costs less.
- Stabilisers: Reduce rattle on larger keys.
- Keycaps: ABS (standard) or PBT (more durable). Profiles and textures affect comfort.
Form factors
Mechanical keyboards come in different sizes to suit your setup. Full-size models include all keys and a numpad, making them best for number-heavy tasks. You could go for a keyboard and mouse combo for a more rounded setup.
Tenkeyless (TKL) keyboards remove the numpad to save desk space while keeping most keys, popular for gaming and everyday use. For maximum portability, 60% keyboards strip away extra keys, ideal for small setups or on-the-go users.
Wireless options
Wireless mechanical keyboards allow you to move your setup around easily and limit bulkiness. Battery life varies depending on usage and lighting with gaming models now offering low-latency performance.
FAQs
Are mechanical keyboards better than standard keyboards?
Whether you should get a mechanical or standard keyboard depends on your needs and preferences. Mechanical keyboards offer better feedback, durability and responsiveness, which is great for gamers and typists. However, they can be louder and less portable than standard models.
Are all mechanical keyboards hot-swappable?
No, not all mechanical keyboards are hot-swappable. Only specific models allow you to change switches without soldering, so it’s worth checking the specs if you plan to customise your board.
How long do mechanical keyboards last?
Mechanical keyboards usually have a longer lifespan, typically rated for 50 million keystrokes or more. With proper care, they can last several years of intensive, daily use.
