Grammarly

# 10 Tips for Mechanical Keyboards for Typists

Anyone who spends their days writing, coding or simply sending an endless number of emails will surely be familiar with the problem of spongy laptop keys. Making the switch to a mechanical keyboard is a complete game-changer for your fingers, your typing speed, and to be honest with you—also improves your desk's look.

If you're ready to make the change, here are 10 simple tips for achieving the best possible typing experience.

### 1. Make use of the tactile bump It's best to avoid the extremely sensitive 'linear' switches that twitchy gamers prefer. Typists generally end up liking tactile switches (for example Cherry MX Browns or Gateron Pro Browns) since they provide a satisfying little 'bump' as soon as the key is registered, which in turn teaches your brain to stop bottoming out.

### 2. Think Carefully Before the "Click" Blue switches sound great in the YouTube audio tests, but in actual use they are *loud*. If you live with other people or work in an office, don't choose the clicking switches unless you really want your colleagues to get upset.

### 3. Select the Appropriate Layout Full-sized keyboards occupy a great deal of space. Many typists prefer a 75% or Tenkeyless (TKL) layout since it includes the necessary arrow and navigation keys and at the same time allows the mouse to be placed nearer to the body for improved ergonomics.

### 4. The Keycaps Made from PBT Are Worth It The keycaps on cheap keyboards are made from ABS plastic and end up looking shiny and oily after a few months have passed. You should look for PBT keycaps since they have a textured, matte finish which gives a premium feel and never wear down.

### 5. Get a Wrist Rest Compared to low-profile chiclet keyboards, mechanical keyboards are higher off the desk, and using a simple wooden or foam wrist rest will hold your hands in a neutral position and prevent strain on your wrists.

### 6. The search for hot-swappable boards If you're not sure which switch you'd prefer, then buy a hot-swappable keyboard since it allows you to insert and remove the switches using a small tool—there's no need for a soldering iron.

### 7. Attempt a more detailed profile Keycaps are available in a variety of shapes, known as profiles. You should consider **OEM, Cherry, or sculpted profiles** since they naturally form a cup around your fingertips, making it easy to locate the home row.

### 8. Use a Desk Mat

A desk mat can protect your desk from scratches, spills, and heat. It also gives you a smooth surface for writing or using your mouse. Some desk mats come with extra features, like built-in organizers or charging pads. Choose a mat that fits your desk and matches your style. A huge mousepad or felt desk mat is not only a matter of appearance; it dampens the low-frequency vibrations caused by typing, which makes the surface feel softer and the sound much better.

### 9. Don't overlook the less prominent ones If the mechanical switches that are well known to you seem like a big jump from your MacBook, then have a go at a low-profile board (for example, the NuPhy Air series). You'll enjoy the mechanical feel without having to face a steep learning curve.

### 10. Learning how to 'Float' When you are typing on a mechanical keyboard you need to use a lighter touch. Instead of hitting the keys hard into the desk, try to slide your fingers over them. Both your typing speed and your joints will benefit.

Happy typing!