Mechanical keyboards have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their durability, tactile feedback, and customization options.
When looking to purchase a mechanical keyboard, you may come across two main options: barebone keyboard kits or prebuilt mechanical keyboards. In this article, we'll discuss the pros and cons of each type to help you decide which one is right for you at Touchmax.
Barebone Keyboard Kits
Barebone keyboard kits are DIY keyboard sets that include the essential components needed to build a functioning mechanical keyboard, such as switches, PCB, case, and keycaps. They're an excellent option for individuals who enjoy building things from scratch, want more control over the customization process, and don't mind getting their hands dirty.
Pros:
- Control: You have complete control over every aspect of your keyboard, from selecting the switch type to designing your own keycap set.
- Learning Experience: You'll learn how to assemble and program a keyboard, which can be a rewarding and educational experience.
- Customization: Barebone keyboard kits offer nearly endless customization options, allowing you to create a keyboard that's unique to your preferences. Check out our best seller barebone kit here.
Cons:
- Time-consuming: Building a keyboard takes time, effort, and patience. It can take anywhere from several hours to several days to finish assembling and programming the keyboard.
- Skill level required: Building a keyboard requires some technical knowledge and skills, making it a daunting task for beginners.
- Cost: Although barebone keyboard kits are typically less expensive than prebuilt mechanical keyboards, they still require a significant investment in terms of time and money.
Prebuilt Mechanical Keyboards
Prebuilt mechanical keyboards are fully assembled and ready-to-use keyboards that come with all the necessary components, including switches, PCB, case, and keycaps. They're an excellent option for individuals who want a high-quality mechanical keyboard without the hassle of building one themselves.
Pros:
- Time-saving: Prebuilt mechanical keyboards are ready to use out of the box, saving you time and effort.
- No technical skills required: You don't need any technical knowledge or skills to set up and use a prebuilt mechanical keyboard.
- Cost-effective: Although some high-end prebuilt mechanical keyboards can be expensive, many budget-friendly options are available. Check out our best sellers here.
Cons:
- Limited customization: Prebuilt mechanical keyboards offer limited customization options, often limiting you to the switch type and keycap set that comes with the keyboard.
- Less control: You have less control over the build quality and components used in a prebuilt mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
Deciding between a barebone keyboard kit and a prebuilt mechanical keyboard ultimately depends on your preferences and goals. If you enjoy building things from scratch, want more control over the customization process, and don't mind investing time and money into the project, then a barebone keyboard kit may be the way to go.
However, if you're looking for a high-quality mechanical keyboard that's ready to use out of the box and don't require much customization, then a prebuilt mechanical keyboard is probably the better option. Regardless of which option you choose, you'll undoubtedly end up with a high-quality keyboard that will give you a satisfying typing experience for years to come.