The 7 Best Mechanical Keyboards for Writers (2023)

Working on your first novel? Or spend all day typing for work?

Either way, your keyboard is the #1 tool in your toolkit–and can make or break your experience, productivity, and fingers!

As a mechanical keyboard nerd (I own dozens) and somebody who spends all-day-every-day writing (I run 3 blogs full-time)…

…allow me to help you find a keyboard that helps you write better (and more comfortably)!

Here are my votes for the best mechanical keyboards for writers:

Best Overall
Keychron K2
Runner Up
Durgod Taurus
Best Low-Profile
Logitech G915
Best Budget
Tecware Phantom
Keychron K2 75% Layout 84 Keys Hot-swappable Bluetooth Wireless/USB Wired Mechanical Keyboard for Mac with Gateron...
DURGOD Taurus K320 TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - 87 Keys - Double Shot PBT - NKRO - USB Type C (Cherry Blue,...
Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Low Profile Switch Options, LIGHTSYNC RGB,...
TECWARE Phantom 87 Key Mechanical Keyboard, RGB led, Outemu Brown Switch
$89.99
$99.00
$104.99
Price not available
Wireless/Bluetooth?
Customization options?
Ergonomics
B+
A-
A+
A-
Best Overall
Keychron K2
Keychron K2 75% Layout 84 Keys Hot-swappable Bluetooth Wireless/USB Wired Mechanical Keyboard for Mac with Gateron...
$89.99
Wireless/Bluetooth?
Customization options?
Ergonomics
B+
Runner Up
Durgod Taurus
DURGOD Taurus K320 TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - 87 Keys - Double Shot PBT - NKRO - USB Type C (Cherry Blue,...
$99.00
Wireless/Bluetooth?
Customization options?
Ergonomics
A-
Best Low-Profile
Logitech G915
Logitech G915 TKL Tenkeyless Lightspeed RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Low Profile Switch Options, LIGHTSYNC RGB,...
$104.99
Wireless/Bluetooth?
Customization options?
Ergonomics
A+
Best Budget
Tecware Phantom
TECWARE Phantom 87 Key Mechanical Keyboard, RGB led, Outemu Brown Switch
Price not available
Wireless/Bluetooth?
Customization options?
Ergonomics
A-

How the keyboards are ranked:

CostObviously, you’ll want to pick a keyboard within your budget!
WirelessDo you prefer a Bluetooth (or USB Dongle) option for wireless? Or is a USB-C ok?
ErgonomicsIf you’re a writer, you NEED to be comfortable for long periods of time on a computer! Do you need a low-profile keyboard? Or split keyboard? We’ll talk about these below.
Switch OptionsThis is the 2nd most important feature–you’ll want tactile or clicky switches for typing (probably). We’ll discuss these in detail below
Hot-swappableHot-swappable keyboards allow you to easily change the switches without de-soldering (makes it more convenient to make customizations.)
Fancy FeaturesRGB backlighting? USB ports on the keyboard itself? A scroll wheel for volume, etc?

Those are the main factors you should consider for purchasing a keyboard (especially for typing or writing all day).

Are Mechanical Keyboards Good for Writers?

In a word, yes! Mechanical keyboards offer several HUGE benefits, specifically for writers, authors, bloggers–anybody who types a lot:

  • More accuracy – Mechanical keyboards are generally more accurate (and definitely more reliable) than membrane keyboards
  • More durable – mechanical switches are rated for millions of keystrokes, and are less likely to stick with extended use!
  • Faster Typing Speeds (sometimes) – Mechanical keyboards aren’t usually that much faster from a technical perspective–but given other factors like comfort, keyboard height, and “tactile feedback” for your fingers–they can end up yielding faster typing speeds
  • More customization (and fun) – There are a TON of customization options with mechanical keyboards, so you can really dial in your writing experience the way you like it!

Pro Tip: What is a mechanical keyboard? A computer keyboard that uses a physical switch underneath each key, rather than the cheap rubber membranes found in most “regular” keyboards. They make mechanical keyboards in all different shapes, sizes, layouts, colors, and switch options (to customize the look, feel, sound, size, and more)!

Let’s get into the recommendations!

Keychron K2 – Best Overall (and Best for Mac)

Keychron K2 75% Layout 84 Keys Hot-swappable Bluetooth Wireless/USB Wired Mechanical Keyboard for Mac with Gateron...
  • Keychron K2, a 75% layout 84 keys hot-swappable white LED backlight wireless mechanical keyboard giving you all the keys and function you need while keeping it compact. And let you personalize per-key...
  • With a unique Mac layout while compatible with Windows, the Keychron K2 has all essential multimedia and function keys you need. Extra keycaps for both Windows and Mac operating systems are included.
  • Connects with up to 3 devices via the reliable Broadcom Bluetooth 5.1 chipset and switch among them easily for multitasking needs. The K2 is best to fit home, office and light gaming use while...
  • Cost: ✅ $69-$99
  • Wireless? ✅ yes
  • Switch Options? ✅ Yes!
  • Hot-swappable? ✅ yes
  • Ergonomics: ❌ The Keychrons can be a little tall for some people (use a wrist rest?)

The K2 was actually my very first mechanical keyboard EVER, and I still use it a lot!

My Keychron K2!

It gets our “best overall” nod because it’s the most balanced option here.

It’s wireless, built to last, offers TONS of customization options, has a physical toggle on the keyboard for MacOS/Windows swapping, and sounds and feels great.

AND–there are several different versions of each Keychron keyboard, including the K2!

  • Hot-swappable or soldered
  • No RGB, white-only backlighting, or full RGB
  • Different switch options (we recommend tactile (brown) or clicky (blue) for writers!)
  • Different versions of the same keyboard (one with grey keycaps, one with white & black)

You should double-check the features before you purchase! They give lots of options 😉

They come equipped with keycaps for both Mac and PC operating systems so you’ll have all the essential Mac function keys you’re used to using with your Mac keyboard.

The battery lasts a really long time, and you can pair it with several different devices!

The one downside for long periods of typing? The height of the keyboard.

keyboard heights
The K2 is similar in height to the KBD67 to the left

If you’re coming from a membrane keyboard, it might take some getting used to! You can also pair it with a keyboard wrist rest if you find it too tall. (or check out the low-profile keyboards below).

Click here to see our recommendations for the best mechanical keyboards for Mac!

Durgod Taurus – Runner-Up

DURGOD Taurus K320 TKL Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - 87 Keys - Double Shot PBT - NKRO - USB Type C (Cherry Blue,...
  • Cherry MX Blue mechanical key switch,deliver a fast and precise response with great tactile feedback.
  • Allow you to rebind control or assign macro. USB Nkey rollover provide gamer a competitive edge. Some function like onekey text input also make the work convenient.
  • PBT double-shot seamless keycaps is elegant and not easy to wear. The appropriate color collocation makes keycaps and shell complement each other.
  • Cost: ✅ Right at $99
  • Wireless? ❌ No
  • Hot-swappable? ❌ No
  • Customization Options: ✅ lots,including colors!
  • Ergonomics: 🟡 Ok

The Durgod Taurus is probably the most “premium” look and feel that you can get for under $100.

It’s probably the most well-built keyboard on our list, and it just FEELS amazing to type on.

Add to that several Cherry MX switch options (Red, Brown, Blue, Silent Red, and Speed Silver), AND several color options–and this is a great pick.

Plus, there are tons of color options to choose from! It can look fun at home, or sleek and professional for the office.

Want more keyboard recommendations for office work? Check this post.

Which switches are best for writing?

The mechanical switches underneath your keycaps come in three broad types:

Switch typeCommon colorsUsed for…How they work
LinearRed, Yellow, BlackMostly gaming, but some don’t mind for typingThese switches are smooth all the way down and back up the keystroke. They’re more muted usually.
TactileBrown, ClearGreat for typing & all-around useHas a tiny “tactile bump” midway through the keystroke, to help your fingers “feel” when the key is activated.
ClickyBlue, GreenGreat for typing & all-around use–louderHas the “tactile bump” as well, this time with a tiny audible “click” mechanism
mechanical switches

For writers, we HIGHLY recommend tactile or clicky switches! Many people find linear switches lead to finger strain and fatigue, especially for longer work sessions!

Click here to read our full guide on mechanical switches.

Tecware Phantom 87 – Best Budget

TECWARE Phantom 87 Key Mechanical Keyboard, RGB led, Outemu Brown Switch
  • RGB BACKLIGHTING
  • OUTEMU SWITCHES & Spare Switches
  • FIBERGLASS PCB
  • Cost: ✅ $40-50!
  • Wireless? ❌ No
  • Hot-swappable? ✅ Yes
  • Switch Options? ✅ a few…
  • Ergonomics: 🟡 ok

I own the Phantom 104, which is the 100% full-sized version with the 10-key numpad, but most writers who don’t need the numpad will prefer the 80% TKL sizes Phantom 87!

For around $40, you get a hot-swappable PCB, a few switch options (Outemu switches), and RGB backlighting.

That’s a REALLY great deal.

The Phantom’s come with Outemu switches (red, brown, and blue are usually available), which are definitely budget switches, but that doesn’t mean they’re terrible. The Keyboard is well-built and feels good.

If you’re on a TIGHT budget, the Tecware Phantom’s are surprisingly great!

Logitech G915 – Best Low-Profile

On Sale
Logitech G915 w/ Tactile Switches (different options available)
  • Worlds NO.1 Best Selling Wireless Gaming Gear Brand - Based on independent aggregated sales data (FEB ‘19 - FEB’20) of Wireless Gaming Keyboard, Mice, & PC Headset in units from: US, CA, CN, JP,...
  • LIGHTSYNC technology provides RGB lighting that synchronizes lighting with any content. Personalize each key or create custom animations from about 16.8M colors with Logitech G HUB software.
  • Low Profile mechanical switches offers the speed, accuracy and performance of a mechanical switch at half the height The GL Clicky switch features a distinctive sound and tactile feedback. Comes in 3...
  • Tenkeyless design provides more room for mouse movement. Store the USB receiver in the back of the keyboard for additional portability.
  • Height: ✅ 22mm(!)
  • Cost: Expensive! 🟡 $150ish to $200, depending on what version you get
  • Hot-swappable? ❌ No.
  • Ergonomics: ✅ VERY low-profile and comft
  • Wireless? ✅ Yes.

If you would prefer a shorter keyboard, but still want to have the benefits of a mechanical sound & feel, they make several low-profile mechanical keyboards! (or full recommendations here).

And the G915 is easily the most feature-rich of them all.

logitech G915 low-profile keyboard
  • fast wireless capabilities
  • extra media keys (and extra gaming keys over to the left on the keyboard)
  • Linear, tactile switches, and clicky switch versions
  • 100% full-sized and 80% TKL versions
  • Lightsync RBG (fancy backlighting) and Logitech software (some people love it, some hate it, and you can always turn it OFF)

It is expensive, but it’s one of the best mechanical keyboards PERIOD (outside of $500+ custom mechanical keyboards)

Related Post – The best 100% full-sized mechanical keyboards.

Keychron K7 – Best for Travel

Keychron K7 Ultra-Slim Hotswappable 60%
A slim keyboard with excellent RBG, wireless, hot-swappable versions available, and it TINY and I love it.
  • Height: ✅ 22mm (only 17mm at the bottom row of keys)
  • Cost: ✅ $70-90, depending on if you want the hot-swappable version
  • Hot-swappable? ✅ Yes, but only with low-profile switches (you can’t put MX-style switches in there)
  • Ergonomics? ✅ Low-profile
  • Wireless? ✅ Yes, fast 5.0 BlueTooth

Here’s another stellar low-profile keyboard, and one that is fantastic for on-the-go work!

It’s a 60% layout, which means it doesn’t have dedicated arrow keys or a function row. You WILL have to figure out the function shortcuts to access arrow buttons, etc!

(read more on keyboard sizes here)

my Keychron K7
My keychron K7! Very low-profile and comfortable

It’s tiny and can go anywhere, and it’s still quite comfortable for typing (I have the clicky blue switches, and they aren’t that loud).

And it’s a Keychron (like the K2 above), so it’s going to work GREAT with Windows or Mac, and it’s built to last.

Kinesis Freestyle Pro – Best Ergonomics

On Sale
KINESIS USB Freestyle Pro Ergonomic Split Mechanical Keyboard (Cherry MX Brown Switches) - KB900-brn
  • Award-winning split design: advanced ergonomics for all body types and preferences via adjustable split, splay, and tent (tenting accessories sold separately). new cable storage compartment supports...
  • Genuine Cherry mechanical switches for premium typing feel and performance: Cherry MX Brown mechanical switches feature a low activation force, tactile feedback, and are rated for 50 million key...
  • Full onboard programmability with the Driverless SmartSet engine: 9 custom layouts, 8 Office hotkeys, on-the-fly macro recording, one-touch key remapping, pre-configured Mac and Dvorak layouts,...
  • Height: 🟡Normal mechanical keyboard height
  • Cost: ❌ $150-$170 depending on which switches you get
  • Switch Options? ✅ Yes! Cherry MX switches
  • Ergonomics? ✅✅ Split keyboard for adjustable angles!
  • Wireless? ❌ No

The angle at which your hands naturally rest is NOT the default typing position.

Ergonomic keyboards reduce typing fatigue by positioning the keys in the way that your hands naturally lie. I.e. at an angle!

What is a split keyboard?

And while many “ergonomic” keyboards have a set angle (you don’t get to position the angle), the Kinesis Freestyle Edge is a keyboard quite literally split down the middle (with a cable connecting the two halves). This lets you position your hands EXACTLY where they’re most comfortable. The proper position, angle, etc.

The Freestyle Pro has a few different switch options (Cherry MX switches!), as well as some programmable macro or media keys.

They also have a similar version, the Freestyle Edge, which has RGB backlighting and a built-in wrist rest–but costs a bit more.

Plus, these look super cool 😎

Realforce R2 – Most Accurate Typing

Fujitsu Realforce R2 Keyboard (Tenkeyless, Black, Mixed Key Weight)
  • Topre capacitive switches provide best-in-class precision and efficiency, requiring only a gentle press to register a keystroke
  • Full N-key roll over (NKRO) - Type as fast as you can! Topre real Force keyboards can keep up with any number of keystrokes and ensure you're always in control
  • Contoured frame and key settings allow for smooth movement across keys, reducing hand and finger fatigue.
  • Cost: ❌ Expensive!
  • Hot-swappable? ❌ No.
  • Ergonomics: 🟡 Normal mech height
  • Wireless? ❌ No
  • Topre switches that aren’t really worth it? ✅ Yes.

Full disclosure, I’ve never typed on the Realforce, and therefore can’t recommend it (I can’t bring myself to pay $250+ for a mechanical keyboard that ISN’T that customizable or have nice features.)

The only real draw here are the topre switches (and rubber-dome elecro-capacitive switch that requires only a gentle keypress in order to activate).

You can type on these things quite soft--but they’re WAY more expensive.

Some keyboard hobbyists SWEAR by topre switches, which are supposedly “more accurate.” But rest assured, even if they ARE more accurate, the difference is likely tiny and most people would never realize the difference!

Maybe it IS more accurate, but stick to mechanical switches.

Honorable Mentions – More Amazing Keyboards for Writers.

With the thousands of mechanical keyboards on the market, of course there are way more than the 7 mentioned above!

Here are some other stellar keyboards for work or play (but will serve you well if you type a lot):

Ducky One 2 Mini – best 60%

Ducky One 2 Mini RGB (Cherry MX Silent Red) Keyboard
  • Distinctive bezel design and dual layer PCB
  • PBT Double Shot seamless keycaps
  • Supports Ducky Macro 2.0, the most powerful hardware available in the market

A 60% keyboard is a compact mechanical keyboard that is smaller in size than a full-sized 100% keyboard.

These typically do not have…

  • A function row
  • Arrow keys
  • A numpad
  • A “home cluster” (delete, home, end, page up, etc)

Ducky is a HUGELY popular brand in the mechanical keyboard community, mostly because of its solid build quality and attractive design.

The backlighting is bright and customizable, and the keycaps are made of high-quality double-shot PBT plastic.

Oh, and OPTIONS. Want a Ducky white Silent MX red switches? Or how about Kailh box switches?

There are tons of different switch options to choose, and they also make the Ducky One 2 with a white case (AND they make a Ducky Mecha Mini with an aluminum case! Though the plastic case is honestly built well, and sounds great).

Click here for our favorite 60% keyboards.

Keychron Q2 – A Premium Pick for Mac Users

Keychron Q2 Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard Knob Version, 65% Layout QMK/VIA Programmable Macro with Hot-swappable...
  • 65% Compact Full Aluminum Frame: The Q2 Knob Version is a fully customizable mechanical keyboard with a 65% compact layout that pushes your typing experience to the next level. With a solid full...
  • All-Around Customizable Keyboard: To build a fully customizable keyboard, we designed every component to be able to assemble easily. With full QMK and VIA support, you can program and remap each key...
  • Hot-swappable Support: With the Gateron G Pro mechanical tactile brown switch providing unrivaled tactile responsiveness with up to 50 million keystroke lifespan. You can also hot-swap the Q2 with...

In the last few years, Keychron has released several “premium” keyboards, which feature…

  • All the usual Keychron features (hot-swappable, wireless, Mac & Windows friendly, and more), PLUS
  • A rotary knob
  • Gateron Pro switches (very high quality switches)
  • More color options

You can even purchase the Q2 without switches and keycaps (to save money, though of course, you’ll need to purchase those separately)!

Das Keyboard 4 – Professional and Fancy

Das Keyboard 4 Professional Wired Mechanical Keyboard, Cherry MX Brown Mechanical Switches, 2-Port USB 3.0 Hub,...
  • 4 PROFESSIONAL MECHANICAL KEYBOARD - The thinnest mechanical keyboard in the world! The combination of tactile feel, the psycho-acoustic experience and incredible craftsmanship all deliver an...
  • PREMIUM SOFT TACTILE EXPERIENCE - Best-in-class Cherry MX Brown mechanical key switches provide tactile and audio feedback so accurate it allows you to execute every keystroke with lightning-fast...
  • UP TO 50 MILLION KEYSTROKES - Laser-etched keycaps for maximum durability are paired with Cherry MX Brown switches, giving your new mechanical keyboard life up to 50 million keystrokes....

PROS ✅

  • All-black design for office or play
  • Cool volume knob and media controls
  • Cherry MX switch options
  • 2-port USB 3.0 hub (handy!)
  • Aluminum top

CONS ❌

  • Doesn’t offer linear switch options
  • Pricey

Here’s why the Das Keyboard 4 is a REALLY popular choice in the mechanical keyboard community:

  • Customization – You can choose tactile or clicky switches, normal or blank keycaps (might be tough?), a Mac version with different keycaps, and even a cheaper “root” version.
  • Build Quality – Das Keyboard is an older keyboard brand, and this keyboard is built like a TRUCK. It will literally last you a lifetime, and it also feels nice and heavy.
  • Simplicity, yet fancy – I personally like the all-black design and simple layout. It says “professional.” BUT this keyboard does have extra media controls and a volume control knob. That’s the perfect amount of fancy

Corsair K70 – Best for Gamers

Corsair K70 RGB MK.2 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard - USB Passthrough & Media Controls - Tactile & Quiet- Cherry MX...
  • Aircraft grade anodized brushed aluminum frame, built to withstand a lifetime of gaming
  • 8MB profile storage with hardware macro and lighting playback allow access to up to three stored profiles on the go, independent of external software
  • Per key dynamic multi color RGB back lighting offers near unlimited color customization and control
  • Cost: ❌ Over $130
  • Hot-swappable? ❌ no
  • Backlighting? ✅ Yes.
  • Wireless? ❌ No
  • Ergonomics: ✅ Comes with a detachable wrist rest, too!

Corsair is another popular brand in gaming, and the K70 has FANCY features that’ll delight gamers (just don’t forget to work, too).

  • USB pass-through
  • Media controls & extra macro keys
  • Detachable wrist rest

Wrist rests definitely take some getting used to, but can be a game-changer if you have oversizes hands (or sometimes if you don’t).

Also, you can choose from a number of Cherry MX switches (the OG name in keyboard switches)

  • MX Blue – clicky (light, tappy sounding)
  • MX Brown – tactile (what I recommend for accountants)
  • MX Red – Linear (the normal linear switch, NOT the Silent version)
  • MX Speed – a lighter, faster linear switch

It might not have all the fancy features from some other boards, but if you’re also into gaming, the K70 is a solid, well-built keyboard with plenty of Cherry MX switch options.

Click here for the best gaming keyboards list!

Summary: What is the best keyboard for writers?

If you spend a lot of time typing, I recommend a mechanical keyboard for improved accuracy, speed, ergonomics, and customization options.

If you want a wireless option, I recommend the Keychron K2 mechanical keyboard (with brown tactile switches). I also think the Durgod Taurus is another fantastic pick!

Happy writing, clicking, and clacking 😎

Mechanical Keyboard FAQs

What keyboards do professional writers use?

While there isn’t a single favorite, most writers make sure to use keyboards that offer accuracy, speed, and comfort. Some fantastic mechanical keyboards for writers are:

  • Keychron K2 – Best Overall (and Best for Mac)
  • Durgod Taurus – Runner-Up
  • Tecware Phantom 87 – Best Budget
  • Logitech G915 – Best Low-Profile
  • Keychron K7 – Best for Travel
  • Kinesis Freestyle Pro – Best Ergonomics
  • Realforce R2 – Most Accurate Typing

Which mechanical keyboard is best for typing?

This will come down to personal preference based on your needs, but I generally recommend a mechanical keyboard (for accuracy, speed, comfort, and customization) with tactile switches (as opposed to linear switches). Here are some of my favorites:

  • Keychron K2
  • Anne Pro 2 or Ducky One 2 Mini (compact 60% keyboards)
  • Durgod Taurus (for office work)
  • Tecware Phantom (budget)

Do mechanical keyboards make you type faster?

Generally, yes, but it’s usually only a small increase. Mechanical keyboards are generally show increased accuracy (which increases speed), as well as an improved feel and ergonomics. And since you can purchase mechanical keyboards in various sizes, heights, switch options, and keycap profiles (shape), you can generally dial in your comfort for typing speed increases.

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