15+ Best Mechanical Keyboards For Office (2024 Buyer’s Guide)
Keycaps 101
Posted by:
amy-golden
Sep 14, 2023
In today's productivity-driven workplaces, the keyboard you use can shape your efficiency and comfort. Discover the advantages of some best mechanical keyboards for office, and how they can redefine your office experience.
Logitech MX Keys Advanced - Best Overall Mechanical Keyboards for Office
Size: Full size (100%)
Number of keys: 104
Switches: Scissor
Wired/wireless: Wireless
Backlighting: Per-Key Backlighting
Connectivity: USB type-C
Logitech MX comes with low-profile and concave-shaped keycaps, providing a comfortable and quiet typing experience, accompanied by smooth and accurate keystrokes. The keyboard also offers customizable backlighting that guarantees excellent key visibility, even in poorly lit surroundings.
Additionally, the keyboard incorporates proximity sensors that can identify the presence of your hands, causing the backlight to turn on as your fingers get close to the keys, and fade when you distance your hands. This intelligent function helps save energy and enhances the overall user experience.
Pros
Cons
Smart illumination and sensors
Versatile wireless connectivity options
Multi-device support enhances productivity
Comfortable typing
Higher price compared to standard keyboards
Not designed for gaming or heavy customization
Some users might prefer a more tactile key feel (subjective preference)
Logitech K845 - Best Budget Mechanical Office Keyboard
Size: Full size
Number of keys: 104
Switches: Cherry MX switch
Wired/wireless: Wired
Backlighting: Yes
Connectivity: No Cable, USB
The typing experience of Logitech K845 is highly satisfactory. The Cherry MX Blue switches provide responsive feedback without causing typing fatigue.
The build-in quality is impressive. The keyboard is primarily made of plastic with an aluminum top plate that feels solid and pleasant. While there's a slight flex in the body, it doesn't affect typing. The textured ABS keycaps enhance grip, although some keys, particularly Enter, Shift, Backspace, and Spacebar, exhibit slight wobbling when pressed. The keyboard features five rubber feet that effectively prevent movement, and the incline feet remain stable when shifting the keyboard.
The backlighting is remarkably clear, and the legends are easily readable in dim settings. When displaying pure white lighting, a subtle blue/green hue might be noticeable, more so in dark surroundings than well-lit ones. Additionally, Logitech Options, the company's setup program for productivity peripherals, is not compatible with the K845, making it difficult to simply remap the keys.
Pros
Cons
Light and responsive typing experience
Great build quality
Customizable backlighting
Loud switches
Limited customization
No included wrist rest
Limited software support
Non-detachable power cable
Logitech ERGO K860 - Best Ergonomic Mechanical Office Keyboard
Size: Full size
Number of keys: 109
Switches: Scissor
Wired/wireless: Wireless
Backlighting: No
Connectivity: No Cable
The most prominent feature of Logitech Urgo K860 is its split layout, where the keyboard is divided into two sections. This design helps reduce wrist and forearm strain, promoting a more comfortable and ergonomic typing posture.
The integrated palm rest is adjustable, allowing you to customize the angle and height to match your preferences. Moreover, the low-profile scissor switch keys offer a quiet and responsive typing experience. They require minimal force to press, which can help reduce muscle effort and fatigue. Therefore, this item is considered the best ergonomic keyboard for writers.
Pros
Cons
Wrist and forearm comfort
Reduced strain and promotes a natural hand position
Adjustable palm rest
Quiet and responsive scissor switch keys
Portable
Unfamiliar ergonomic keyboards
Not specifically designed for gaming or heavy customization
Lack of mechanical keys
No backlighting
Fujitsu Realforce R2 - Best Feeling Mechanical Office Keyboard
Size: Full size
Number of keys: 104
Switches: Topre
Wired/wireless: Wired
Backlighting: No
Connectivity: Windows, Mac
Fujitsu Realforce R2 is considered one best office mechanical keyboard as it features Topre switches. It employs a rubber dome paired with a spring beneath it, along with a capacitive sensor that detects key presses during the mid-actuation point. This results in key presses being registered near the beginning of the press, requiring minimal force and producing very little noise.
The Realforce model, one of the few keyboards utilizing these switches, boasts a solid build and employs high-quality PBT keycaps, which remain non-glossy and more durable compared to the common ABS keycaps. While it comes with a significant price tag, many enthusiasts consider it to represent the ultimate pinnacle of this keyboard design. Moreover, its premium build quality and unique key switches also contribute to its high price tag, which may be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers.
Pros
Cons
Topre switches
Detail and high-quality manufacturing
Comfortable typing experience
Minimalist Design
High price
Limited availability
Lack of Customization
Kinesis Freestyle Pro - Best Split Mechanical Office Keyboard
Size: Full size
Number of keys: 104
Switches: Cherry MX Brown
Wired/wireless: Wired
Backlighting: No
Connectivity: PC, laptop
Given that it has Cherry MX Brown switches, which have a low actuation force and short pre-travel distance, the Kinesis Freestyle Pro is a good gaming keyboard. Though some individuals might be let down by the keycaps, it seems very responsive. Additionally, you might have extra area for your mouse because you can only use the left half of the keyboard. Sadly, it lacks backlighting and might not be the best for gaming in a dim environment.
The Kinesis Freestyle Pro is relatively expensive and it can be limited depending on your location. This product feels a little bit cheap despite being well-built. The ABS keycaps with pad printing feel extremely flimsy and unstable when typing, despite the chassis being built of very hard plastic that feels reasonably sturdy. The cables are extremely frail, don't feel particularly sturdy, and have white markings that give them a cheap-looking appearance.
The Keychron K6 is a compact wireless mechanical keyboard designed for versatility and portability. It features a 65% layout, which means it retains most essential keys while eliminating the number pad and some other ancillary keys. This design results in a more compact form factor that saves desk space and is easier to carry.
One of the standout features of the Keychron K6 is its choice of switch options, including mechanical switches like Gateron, Keychron, and optical switches. This allows users to select the type of switch that suits their typing preferences, whether it's a tactile, clicky, or linear experience.
The keyboard often comes with a range of keycap options, enabling users to customize the keyboard's appearance to match their style. Additionally, the K6 may include backlighting with adjustable colors and effects for both aesthetic appeal and improved visibility in low-light environments.
Pros
Cons
True Three different types of Cherry MX switches available
Corsair Strafe MK.2 - Best Full-Sized Mechanical Office Keyboard
Size: Full-time (100%)
Number of keys: 104
Switches: Cherry MX
Wired/wireless: Wired
Backlighting: Yes
Connectivity: Mac, Window
Corsair Strafe MK.2 is one mechanical keyboard for the office which offers a full-sized layout with dedicated media controls and programmable macro keys.
The keyboard is equipped with mechanical key switches, likely Cherry MX variants, which provide tactile feedback and quick actuation, catering to both gaming and typing needs. It often includes customizable RGB backlighting, allowing users to personalize the lighting effects to match their setup.
This item is installed with a Windows Key lock, a button for easily adjusting the keyboard backlight brightness, and a button for switching between the many backlighting settings. The keycaps, however, have a texture that falls somewhere between that of regular plastic keycaps and soft-touch material, which feels lovely against the fingertips but readily absorbs grease.
Pros
Cons
All keys are macro-programmable
Fully customizable RGB lighting
Good typing experience
Wrist rest connectors feel fragile
ABS keycaps feel cheap
Thick and heavy cable
HHKB Professional Hybrid Type-S - Quietest Mechanical Office Keyboard
Size: 60% keyboard
Number of keys: 60
Switches: Topre
Wired/wireless: Wireless, Bluetooth
Backlighting: No
Connectivity: Windows, Mac
Equipped with Topre switches, the HHKB employs electrostatic capacitive technology, offering a lightweight and easily pressed key action. These switches offer a satisfying typing experience and a dampened sound by applying silencing and lubrication techniques, making it one of the best quiet mechanical keyboard for office.
HHKB Professional Hybrid Type-S features an ultra-compact layout, ideal for those who travel or have very limited desk space. The layout of the HHKB omits the bottom left and right keys in favor of incorporating Ctrl into the CapsLock key. Additionally, the backslash key is positioned adjacent to the backspace key, placing it conveniently closer to the home row, enhancing ergonomic comfort.
Adapting to the HHKB's layout might require an adjustment period. Personally, it took me approximately two weeks to become accustomed to the relocation of the backspace function to the backslash key which would suit professional typists most.
Pros
Cons
Quiet typing experience
space-saving
Unique layout features
Wireless connectability
Topre switches
Expensive
Have to practice using
No number pad
Razer Pro Type Ultra - Best Wireless Mechanical Office Keyboard
Size: Full size (100%)
Number of keys: 104
Switches: Razer™ Yellow Mechanical Switch
Wired/Wireless: Wireless
Backlighting: Backlit keys (white LED)
Connectivity: Wired USB-C, wireless connection via Bluetooth® and Razer™ HyperSpeed (2.4GHz)
The core of the Razer Pro Type Ultra lies in its state-of-the-art silent key switches, which are perfect for communal work settings. Additionally, the keyboard's condensed design and shallow keycaps add to a pleasant and ergonomic typing sensation.
Through Razer's Synapse software, you can customize the keyboard's illumination effects, reconfigure keys, and establish shortcuts to enhance your work process. This degree of flexibility guarantees that the keyboard aligns with your individual writing approach and choices.
Pros
Cons
Suitable for shared workspace
Impressive battery life
Wireless connectivity
Comfortable and ergonomic typing experience
Lighting effects
Beautiful appearance
Quite expensive
Unusual keycap finish
Struggle when swapping input methods
A bit moist, develop fingerprints
Apple Magic Keyboard - Best Mechanical Office Keyboard for Mac
Size: Compact (60%)
Number of keys: 80
Switches: Scissor/Rubber dome
Wire/Wireless: Wireless
Backlighting: Yes
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB-C, Mac with macOS 11.3 or later, iPad with iPadOS 14.5 or later, iPhone and iPod touch with iOS 14.5 or later
Apple Magic Keyboard showcases a slender and lightweight structure, imparting a sense of sophistication to your work area. Its understated look harmonizes with Apple's design philosophy, rendering it a chic complement to your gadgets.
Additionally, the keyboard incorporates an integrated rechargeable battery capable of enduring weeks on one charge, lessening the necessity for frequent battery changes. Exclusive function keys offer swift entry to routine activities like modifying screen illumination, managing volume, controlling media playback, and other functions.
Pros
Cons
Long-lasting built-in rechargeable battery
Integrated function keys for easy access to common tasks
Compact layout with optional numeric keypad
Seamless integration with Apple devices
Limited customization
Compatibility mainly tailored to Apple devices
Tactile feel might not suit everyone's typing preferences (subjective)
Logitech MX Keys Mini - Best Small Mechanical Office Keyboard
Size: Compact (75%)
Number of keys: 79
Switches: Scissor
Wire/Wireless: Wireless
Backlighting: White backlit
Connectivity: Mac, Window
Logitech MX Keys Mini offers decent ergonomics. Despite having no wrist rest, the keyboard is low enough which can give you a better experience. Additionally, this item uses scissor switches, helping users to feel pretty light to type on.
Despite the keyboard's compact size, the keys are thoughtfully placed, avoiding a cramped sensation. Every key offers a consistent and stable feel, although the spacebar distinguishes itself with a slightly distinct feel and a tad more noise during actuation.
Besides, there are instances where specific keys might not operate as intended on certain devices. For example, on macOS, the Mute and Dictation keys might not be functional. On Linux, the Dictation, Emoji, Screenshot, and Mute keys might not register. Similarly, on Android and iOS devices, the Emoji and Mute keys might not work, and in the case of iPadOS, only the Mute key might not function as expected.
Pros
Cons
Good typing experience
Great compatibility
Well-built
Vibrant white backlighting
Not compatible with Logitech unifying receiver
Not include USB receiver
No macro-programmable keys
Drop + OLKB Preonic Keyboard - Best Mechanical Office Keyboard for Typing
Size: Compact (40%)
Number of keys: 47
Switches: Kaihua hot-swappable switch
Wire/Wireless: Wireless
Backlighting: Yes
Connectivity:
The Massdrop x OLKB Preonic Mechanical Keyboard presents ortholinear keyboard strategically positioned keys so that frequently used ones are merely one space away from the corresponding finger. This design logic aims to reduce finger movement distance, resulting in faster and less straining typing motions.
Numerous other keyboards adopt similar principles, each with distinct features and priorities. Among these, the Massdrop x OLKB Preonic is one of the most user-friendly options, catering to a wider audience beyond ergonomic enthusiasts.
Pros
Cons
All aluminum build
5-pin hot swap
Integrated speaker
Unique layout
Poor stabilizers
No height adjustment
Difficult to get used to
Leopold FC980M – Best Compact Mechanical Keyboards for the Office
Size: Compact (96%)
Number of keys: 98
Switches: Cherry MX
Wire/Wireless: Wireless, Wired
Backlighting: No
Connectivity: Windows
The Leopold FC980M is a compact mechanical keyboard known for its unique layout and high build quality. It features a 98-key layout that combines elements of a tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard with a number pad, resulting in a more space-efficient design. This layout allows for efficient navigation and data input without sacrificing too much desk space.
The FC980M is popular among enthusiasts who appreciate its minimalist design, durable construction, and premium key switches, often Cherry MX variants. It's a keyboard that offers a balance between compactness and functionality, making it suitable for both typists and gamers who desire a reliable and ergonomic keyboard experience.
Pros
Cons
Resistant materials
5-pin hot swap
Integrated speaker
Unique layout
Poor stabilizers
No height adjustment
Difficult to get used to
Durgod Fusion - Best Retro Mechanical Keyboards for the Office
Size: Compact (65%)
Number of keys: 68
Switches: Cherry MX
Wire/Wireless: Wireless, wired
Backlighting: No
Connectivity: Windows, Android, ios
The Durgod Fusion comes with Durgod's PBT CHERRY profile Double-Shot keycaps, which are known for their durability and high-quality feel. Moreover, the keyboard offers a variety of CHERRY MX keyswitch options, including Black, Blue, Red, Silent Black, Silent Red, Brown, and Speed Silver. This allows you to choose the switch type that best suits your typing or gaming preferences.
The Durgod Fusion 65 supports multiple connection methods. It can connect via Bluetooth 5.0, making it compatible with Win8, iOS, and Android systems. It also supports a 2.4GHz wireless connection for Win XP, iOS, and Android systems. Additionally, you can connect it through a USB-C wired connection.
Pros
Cons
Comfortable balance between size and functionality
Retro design
Dreamy typing experience
Good durability and a superb typing experience
High final price point
Easier to be dusty
Hard to configure
Not hot-swappable
Keychron Q6 - Best Gasket-Mounted keyboard for Work
Size: Full size
Number of keys: 108
Switches: Gateron G Pro
Wire/Wireless: Wired
Backlighting: Yes
Connectivity: Windows, Android, ios
Keychron Q6 is highly suitable for office environments due to its impressive build quality and superior typing experience it provides. It features layers of sound-absorbing foam that contribute to its quiet operation, while the Gateron G Pro Red switches offer a notably light and responsive keystroke.
Notably, the keyboard is designed to be hot-swappable. However, the keyboard's ergonomics are moderately satisfactory as it has a high profile and lacks a wrist rest.
The typing experience of the Keychron Q6 is exceptional. Its dual-gasket construction contributes to a responsive and mildly bouncy feel while the dual layers of sound-absorbing foam ensure pleasant acoustics.
Moreover, the double-shot PBT keycaps are subtly textured and sport a distinctive 'OSA' profile, resembling standard OEM keycaps in height but with rounded tops.
Pros
Cons
Incredible build quality
Full RGB backlighting with individually-lit keys
Hot-swappable
All keys are macro-programmable
Wired-only
May be uncomfortable with high-profile design and no wrist rest
KUL ES-87 - Best Tenkeyless Mechanical Keyboard for Office
Size: Tenkeyless
Number of keys: 87
Switches: Cherry MX
Wire/Wireless:
Backlighting: No
Connectivity: Windows, Android, ios
Kul es-87 is a compact mechanical keyboard in office known for its high build quality and versatile customization options. It features an 87-key layout, omitting the number pad and some extra keys to save space while retaining essential functionality.
The keyboard often includes various switch options (Brown, Red, Black, Blue), allowing users to choose the type of key switch that suits their typing preferences. Its minimalist design and solid construction make it popular among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Pros
Cons
Incredible build quality
Hot-swappable
All keys are macro-programmable
Wired-only
Uncomfortable high-profile design
Are Mechanical Keyboards the Right Choice for Office Work?
Mechanical keyboards can be a good choice for office work due to their durability, tactile feedback, and customizable options, but individual preferences may vary.
Benefits of Mechanical Office Keyboards
Enhanced typing experience
Mechanical keyboards offer tactile feedback and distinct keypresses, resulting in a more satisfying and accurate typing experience.
Increased Accuracy
The tactile feedback and distinct actuation points of mechanical switches contribute to improved typing accuracy. This can be particularly beneficial for tasks that require precision, such as data entry or content creation.
Professional Appearance
Mechanical office keyboards often feature sleek and professional designs, adding a touch of sophistication to your workspace. They are available in various styles and finishes to complement any office aesthetic.
Ergonomics and comfort
Many mechanical keyboards are designed with ergonomic considerations, promoting a more natural hand position and reducing strain during long typing sessions.
Reduced typing fatigue
The tactile feedback and optimized key actuation force of mechanical switches can help reduce typing fatigue by requiring less effort to register keypresses.
Durability and longevity
Mechanical switches are built to withstand millions of keypresses, making them more durable and longer-lasting compared to traditional rubber dome switches.
Mechanical keyboards often offer customizable keycaps, switch types, and lighting effects, allowing users to tailor the keyboard to their preferences and needs.
Mechanical keyboards can be noisier compared to their membrane counterparts, especially if they have tactile or clicky switches, which might be distracting in shared or quiet environments.
As working in an office environment, check out these quietest mechanical keyboards which can be potentially suitable for your working process.
Cost
Mechanical keyboards tend to be more expensive than traditional membrane keyboards due to the higher-quality materials and construction of the switches.
Learning Curve
Switching to a mechanical keyboard might require an adjustment period for users who are accustomed to traditional membrane keyboards, potentially impacting typing speed initially.
Portability
Mechanical keyboards are hefty. They’re generally bigger and heavier compared to normal keyboards. This may not be ideal for those who prioritize portability and travel frequently.
What makes a good office mechanical keyboard?
Key Switches
Choose a switch type that suits your typing style and comfort. Common options include Cherry MX switches (Blue for tactile and clicky, Brown for tactile but quieter, Red for linear and quiet) or alternatives like Gateron, Kailh, or Romer-G switches. To be specific, white-collar workers should avoid using keyboards with clicky switches as they can be noisy and affect productivity.
However, the actual number of key switches can be enormous. Therefore, it is harder to choose one for yourself.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Look for keyboards with an ergonomic design that promotes a natural typing posture and reduces strain on wrists and fingers. Some keyboards have split layouts or built-in wrist rests would make the working experience more comfortable. 8-hour users should take into account some favorite keyboards as they can boost their mood even when working.
Typing Experience
A good office mechanical keyboard offers a comfortable and tactile typing experience with quiet switches, ergonomic design, durable keycaps, and customizable features to enhance productivity and reduce strain.
Noise Level
Some keyboards come with built-in noise dampening mechanisms, like O-rings, for example, Leopold FC980M, HHKB Pro 2 Type-S or Realforce R2, to reduce the sound of key presses. This can be especially useful in quiet office environments.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Wired keyboards ensure a consistent connection which would be more suitable for gaming, while wireless ones offer greater mobility and a cleaner desk setup, facilitating office work. Therefore, wireless mechanical keyboards are more preferable for the working environment.
Regarding the compatibility of the product, ensure the keyboard is compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux) and any specific software you use in your office.
Choose a layout that suits your needs, whether it's a standard full-size layout, a tenkeyless (TKL) layout, or even a compact 60% layout. Extra function keys, multimedia controls, and programmable macro keys can enhance productivity.
There are a variety of other keyboard sizes and layouts, please read about them carefully to facilitate and boost your creativity for a new keyboard.
Keycaps
Double-shot or dye-sublimated keycaps are more durable and less likely to wear off over time. Keycaps with a comfortable profile (e.g., sculpted or flat) can improve typing accuracy.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, selecting the right mechanical keyboard for your office setup can significantly enhance your typing experience and productivity. Our comprehensive buyer's guide has highlighted 15+ of the best mechanical keyboards for office use, considering factors such as key switch types, build quality, ergonomic features, and customizable options. With the information provided in this guide, you're well-equipped to make an informed decision and take your office productivity to new heights.
FAQs
Can I use a mechanical keyboard in the office?
Yes, you can use a mechanical keyboard in the office. However, it's advisable to choose a keyboard with quieter switches (e.g., tactile or linear switches) to minimize noise and consider your coworkers' comfort.
Are mechanical keyboards good for office work?
Yes, mechanical keyboards can be excellent for office work due to their comfortable typing experience, durability, and customizable features.
Can I use a gaming keyboard for office work?
Yes, you can use a gaming keyboard for office work, but consider noise levels and functionality that align with office environment needs.
What switches are best for office use?
Tactile switches with low noise levels, such as Cherry MX Brown or similar alternatives, are often considered best for office use.
What is the best mechanical keyboard for work with customizable layouts and programmable keys?
Kinesis Freestyle Pro, Happy Hacking Keyboard Hybrid Type-S and Keychron K6 are the best mechanical keyboard for work with customizable layouts and programmable keys.
What are the best mechanical keyboards for accountants?
For accountants, mechanical keyboards with quiet tactile switches, a full-size layout, and programmable keys can be beneficial. Consider options like the Corsair Strafe MK.2.
What are the best mechanical keyboards for lawyers?
The Razer Pro Type Ultra is a suitable mechanical keyboard for lawyers, offering a comfortable and quiet typing experience, wireless connectivity, and a professional design.
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I work as a freelance blogger in Seattle, Washington. I've been freelancing full-time for 5 years. I'm interested in anime, resin art, and mechanical keyboards.
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