By request, a short recommendation list of mechanical keyboards under $100.
Switch Behavior
Cherry MX Switch Types (more switch types can be found at this guide)
SteelSeries Apex M500: uses Cherry Reds
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Cherry MX-Board 3.0 G80-3850: uses Cherry Browns
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Logitech G610 Orion: has Cherry Red and Brown versions
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Cooler Master Quick Fire TK: has Cherry Blue, Brown, Red, and Green versions
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Razer BlackWidow Ultimate 2016: has two versions with two feature sets: one has a choice of Razer Green or Cherry Blue switches and a smaller footprint, but no macros while the other has a choice of Razer Green or Orange switches with a larger footpring and supports macros
Switch Behavior
- Linear: the keystroke is consistent and smooth
- Tactile: a bump in the middle of travel, usually around the actuation point
- Clicky: a bump in the middle of travel accompanied by a sharp “click” sound
Cherry MX Switch Types (more switch types can be found at this guide)
- Cherry Red: linear
- Cherry Black: linear; requires more force than Cherry Red
- Cherry Blue: clicky; heavy like Cherry Black
- Cherry Brown: tactile
SteelSeries Apex M500: uses Cherry Reds
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Cherry MX-Board 3.0 G80-3850: uses Cherry Browns
----------------
Logitech G610 Orion: has Cherry Red and Brown versions
----------------
Cooler Master Quick Fire TK: has Cherry Blue, Brown, Red, and Green versions
----------------
Razer BlackWidow Ultimate 2016: has two versions with two feature sets: one has a choice of Razer Green or Cherry Blue switches and a smaller footprint, but no macros while the other has a choice of Razer Green or Orange switches with a larger footpring and supports macros