Mechanical keyboards play a crucial role in engaging activities like gaming.
However, most people use their keyboard for several other things outside gaming—for instance, messaging friends, working , and browsing the internet.
In particular, programmers and coders rely heavily on their keyboards to help them deliver efficiently.
For them, getting the best mechanical keyboard for programming is more than just comfort. It helps them achieve peak programming productivity.
It doesn’t matter whether you are a coding novice or a seasoned programmer; the right keyboard can significantly impact efficiency and comfort during long programming sessions.
Choosing the right keyboard for programming ensures that you get proper feedback on each press, enabling you to improve your productivity and accuracy.
As you can guess, using the wrong one will lead to chaos and errors in your work.
However, you should be careful when selecting the best mechanical keyboard for programming. Keyboards can appear similar but offer slightly different features and functionality.
That is why we came up with this guide to help you understand those subtle differences and choose the right one for your programming needs. So, let’s dive in right away.
The Best Mechanical Keyboards for Programming
1. Mountain Everest Max
While programmers have differences with regards to the type of keyboards they use, the Mountain Everest Max keyboard allows every type of coder to customize to their liking.
This keyboard outshines the rest because it innovates in areas that others have never ventured into. For instance, its numeric keypad is detachable, and you can set it on the right side of the keyboard.
Apart from this, you can replace the keycaps, thanks to the included keycap puller. The keyboard also features a media dock that features a display dial for changing its configurations on the fly.
Reasons to Buy
- Stream deck keys
- Detachable numpad and media dock
- Aluminum bases and ABS keycaps
Reasons to Avoid
- It is as heavy as a laptop.
Expensive
Price: $270
2. Corsair K100 RGB
The Corsair K199 GRB is our best mechanical keyboard for programming because it has many essential features that you may need as a programmer.
The full-size keyboard comes with 100 keys to play around with. As you know, more keys equate to better customization and a more effective workflow.
Reasons to Buy
- Various switch setups are available
- Responsive keys
- Ultra-slim 17mm profile for a modern look
- Axon Hyper-Processing technology for high speed
Reasons to Avoid
- Advanced features may not be useful for casual users.
- It is slightly expensive.
Price: $250
3. Asus ROG Azoth Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
With a compact design and hot-swappable key switches, the ROG Azoth features one of the hardest keyboards, even for keyboard junkies.
But the good thing is that Asus includes a detailed toolkit for keyboard-switch tweakers. In terms of looks, the keyboard oozes luxury. So, you are unlikely to change a thing about it.
Reasons to Buy
- Include a comprehensive starter toolkit for keyboard tweakers.
- Compact footprint for key count
- Has an OLED panel for adjusting volume
- Ultra-stable key switches with box stabilizers
Reasons to Avoid
- Delete key placement less than optimal
- It is pricey for a sawed-off keyboard.
Price: $249
4. Lofree Flow Mechanical Keyboard
The Lofree Flow is the best mechanical keyboard for programming because of its luxurious appeal.
Its combination of low-profile mechanical switches and a gasket-mount design offers a soft but satisfying typing experience.
This keyboard provides a level of softness that makes coding for long hours enjoyable.
Reasons to Buy
- Class-leading build quality
- Gasket mount design makes its low-profile keys quieter.
- Perfect balance of portability and durability
Has resilient keycaps with sharp legends
Reasons to Avoid
- Hot-swappable, but comes with limited options.
- Wireless connectivity is only via Bluetooth.
Price: $170
5. Kinesis Freestyle Pro
The Kinesis Freestyle Pro is the best mechanical keyboard for programming, especially when it comes to ergonomics.
This split ergonomic keyboard takes up less space and gives you more freedom when it comes to adjustment of arms.
It stands out because it combines a tenkeyless layout with a whole row of function keys.
Also, as a mechanical keyboard, it features Cherry MX switches in two versions: Cherry MX Brown and Cherry MX Red. We also feel it is special because it features the three major key layouts: Windows, Dvorak, and Mac.
Reasons to Buy
- Dedicated productivity keys
- Supports three key layouts: Mac, QWERTY/Windows, and Dvorak.
- Healthy typing
- On-the-fly Macro Recording
Reasons to Avoid
- No dedicated media keys
- Tenting kit and palm rests sold separately.
Price: $179
6. Glorious GMMK Pro
If you prefer a smaller keyboard, then you will fall in love with the Glorious GMMK Pro.
This model usually comes in three popular sizes: full, compact (61-key), and tenkeyless.
We prefer this version without a numeric keypad because it offers a balance of keys that most programmers seek.
Reasons to Buy
- Sturdy built quality
- Features a removable, durable braided cord
- It is portable.
- Default Gateron brown switches look stylish.
Reasons to Avoid
- It doesn’t have dedicated media keys.
Price: $119
7. NuPhy Air75 V2 Wireless Keyboard
If you are looking for a wireless keyboard for coding, then the NuPhy Air 75 V2 is the best mechanical keyboard for programming.
We love it because it is compact, meaning it can save a lot of desktop space. It also excels in productivity, thanks to its low-profile switches that allow for quick and accurate typing.
Reasons to Buy
- Heavily reinforced build
- Low-profile keys are comfortable for any coding session.
- QMK/VIA firmware offers programmers powerful customization.
- Excellent cross-platform connectivity
Reasons to Avoid
- Keys are close together.
Price: $150
8. Logitech MX Mechanical Mini for Mac
We understand that not everyone is a Windows user. That is why we included the Logitech MX Mechanical Mini for Mac.
This low-profile wireless keyboard offers excellent typing feel and comes in colors that blend beautifully with other Apple devices.
Reasons to Buy
- Compact and low-profile
- Included feel offers different typing angles.
- Fits well with the Mac theme.
Reasons to Avoid
- Keys are squeezed together.
Price: $98
9. Razer BlackWidow V4 75% Pro
The Razer BlackWidow V4 75% is the best mechanical keyboard for programming because of the immaculate typing feel, compact design, and plush wrist rest.
Also, the inclusion of an OLED screen, wireless capability, and improved build quality makes it stand out among the competition.
Reasons to Buy
- Hot-swappable key switches
- Immaculate typing feel
- Plush wrist rest
- Easy to pop open and tinker
- Stylish RGB lighting
Reasons to Avoid
- The OLED display is not color.
- It is expensive.
Price
$299
10. Keychron C3 Pro
Keychron is a popular brand delivering custom keyboards at a reasonable price.
So, as you go to the market for keyboards, know that you don’t have to spend top dollars to get a functional keyboard.
This compact keyboard is not only affordable; it also has an excellent feel and comes in eye-catching colors.
Reasons to Buy
- Very affordable
- Compatible with Macs and Windows PCs
- Shine-through PBT keycaps and additional keycaps for color customization
- Built-in cable management
Reasons to Avoid
- The plastic frame feels a bit flimsy.
Price: $37
How to Choose the Best Mechanical Keyboard for Programming
Here are a few crucial factors that you need to consider when searching for the best keyboard for your programming tasks.
Ergonomics
Choose a keyboard design that will prevent wrist strain. Keyboards with split layouts tend to make programming sessions more comfortable. The same can be achieved with a keyboard with wrist rests.
Feel
Each keyboard model can have a different feel based on layout, design, and construction. It is also crucial to understand that the feel of your keyboard is generally a personal preference.
So, you need to know your taste so as to find the best option. In some cases, you might want to test them physically to find the one that feels best for you.
Programmable Keys
As a programmer, you may decide sometimes to dial in your programming workflow. If that is the case, consider getting programmable keys on your mechanical keyboard. Doing this will allow you to customize your setup to improve speed and productivity.
Switch Style
Besides choosing programmable keys for your mechanical keyboard, you should also consider the various switch styles. Most people prefer blue switch options because they give you a good feel and click sound. Unfortunately, some office settings may discourage click-type switches.
Size
The size of your keyboard also plays a crucial role in selecting the best mechanical keyboard for programming. Sure, you can code effectively on a 60% keyboard, but it tends to limit some programmers.
Most of them prefer a full-size keyboard that offers more keys to work with. In addition to the horizontal size, the thickness of your keyboard is also a key determinant.
Budget
Most mechanical keyboards tend to be affordable. But you still want to keep the cost in check. You are likely to pay more if you want more features or a specific type of keyboard. The good thing is that you can still find plenty of affordable options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Most coders prefer mechanical keyboards because of the sound they produce and the tactile feel when compared to other keyboard styles.
In some cases, it is just a personal preference. Having said that, the most outstanding advantage of mechanical keyboards in coding realms is that they help increase productivity.
As alluded to earlier, every programmer can have personal preferences when it comes to color switches.
However, blue tends to be the favorite for many programmers. These switches produced a click sound, which played a role in helping programmers stay focused and alert while programming.
Yes, they can use a 60% keyboard. However, it isn’t the best option for programming tasks because such a size may not include all the critical functions like keys, which are necessary for coding and text editing.
In Summary
Finding the perfect keyboard can truly transform your programming experience. That is why you should understand how to choose the best mechanical keyboard for programming.
These keyboards are built for comfort, last longer, and help programmers stay productive.
But keep in mind that the choice of keyboard for programming tends to be a personal preference. So, if you want to stay focused and productive in your programming session, it is crucial to select something that fits your workflow.
Also, take good care of it while working. Specifically, try to clean your keyboard often to keep it in the best shape. You can also prevent it from getting filthy by avoiding spills and using a dust cover.
And above all, use your keyboard carefully. Keys and switches tend to wear out faster, especially if you are being too aggressive or smashing it.
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