Mechanical Keyboard Sound Isn't That Simple
Figure 1: I couldn't think of a more literal way to represent this article if I tried... Looking back just a few years ago, there’s no doubt that the huge influx of people that joined the hobby at the peak of the COVID pandemic were drawn to keyboards by way of YouTube, TikTok, and other audio-visual content platforms. Even as the output from these content creators has waned in recent months, their collective impact and legacy on the keyboard hobby is rather firmly etched in the history books. As a result of all of their sound tests, build logs, and opinion videos, the message is clear to any new person joining the hobby: mechanical keyboards are all about the sound. Thock this, clack that. Whether it’s keyboards, keycaps, or even singular switches, seemingly everyone new to the hobby meticulously pores over each component of their keyboard not in an attempt to figure out how it will feel in hand, but how it will sound as they’re furiously grinding their way out from...
Mar 27, 2024
Thank you!
Realforce, my number one for quality in build and material. My Leopold had been close, but i found the case (disassembled) at least one tier lower than Realforce. HHKB, i've had three, left is my most beloved JP, is just fine, good roadwarrior. RoyalKludge Clone, after some modding smooth like genuine Topre and for me the most pleasing Tock. The Plum, i like the layout for my gaming needs, 45 or 55g would be more pleasing for me.
If the Realforce price is considered to be fine, i do find the Leopold and HHKB overpriced. The RoyalKludge and Plum have a nice (better) bang for the buck for me, if you're willing to go with clones and even more after some tuning.
I wrote a bit here: https://www.massdrop.com/talk/963/don-t-shoot-me-i-m-only-the-piano-player Maybe some information that might be helpfull.
If you have another question, just let me know.
Edit: Have in mind, the 5.5u spacebar doesn't make it easy to go for different keycaps.
I agree. RK best clone Topre board, modded or not. I want the Plum just for pick up and go. Sadly 35g is too low. 55g or nothing!