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
I would configure mine with gateron blue switches and black legend keycaps. This would cost 141. This would get shipped out in 3 months.
Comparatively I could go this route: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Tada68-Mechanical-keyboard-gateron-swtich-65-layout-Dye-sub-keycaps-cherry-profils-enjoypbt-keycap-cherry-profile/32807055607.html?aff_platform=product&cpt=1520677093341&sk=jaMj2bm&aff_trace_key=f7a390f004734564bf74f5018d802df3-1520677093341-00038-jaMj2bm&terminal_id=f39b2f1b71f742eaabf70f4455703e14
It will cost me 169 for basically the same set up. With a couple exceptions.
Exceptions: 1. Pre assembled, so I don't have to buy solder and tools, or have to pay someone to do it for me. 2. Comes with white LEDs. 3. Will ship pretty quick and I'd have it in 3-4 weeks tops. 4. 30$ more expensive
For me, the extra 30 would be worth it for the LEDs(yes I know it's just backlighting and the caps aren't shine through, but i like to have the option to maybe change my caps down the raod to pbt double shot translucent legends), and the fact that I don't have to worry about soldering or anything, and it arrives quicker.
Where it makes sense for some people is when the have any of the following:
1. Already own Keycaps and or switches that will be used instead 2. Want specific, non listed, switches or keycaps (Like DSA, SA, or different color scheme all together). 3. Have access to tools to solder (or a person to do it for free or cheap) 4. Just love the idea that THEY made it. :) (This would be me, but let's be honest.... I'd screw this up... I'm pretty clumsy!!) 5. Are not in a rush and want the best price. 6. Can easily get better stabilizers(for additional 10-15USD) 7. Patience (definitely NOT me)
Like I said it IS a good deal, but it's not for everyone (kinda obvious). I'd still go with the AliExpress one.