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Choosing the Right Material and Layout

April 28th, 2023

The magic of a mechanical keyboard lies in more than just its tactile feel or auditory feedback. Choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard goes beyond selecting between Cherry MX Brown or Blue switches. It includes considering the size of your keyboard, the layout and materials it's made from, and any additional features or options you might prefer.The world of mechanical keyboards is expansive with seemingly endless opportunities for customization. To help you navigate this forest of choices, we'll explain the different layouts available and offer some thoughts on which might be best for you.

An Introduction to Mechanical Keyboards

Are you done with your regular, generic keyboard and ready to try something new? Keyboard enthusiasts know that the world of mechanical keyboards has a lot to offer. Beyond the tactile feedback, the comfort of typing, and the enhanced gaming experience, mechanical keyboards come in different shapes and sizes.It's important to understand the differences between keyboard cases and layouts to pick one that suits your needs.The most popular mechanical keyboard layouts are Full-size, Tenkeyless (TKL), Compact, and 75%, with each offering its unique benefits.

Full-size

A full-size mechanical keyboard has 104 or 105 keys. This type of design includes all the dedicated media keys, function row keys, volume control wheels, and others that are often included for a traditional keyboard look and feel.

Tenkeyless (TKL)

This is a more compact solution than full-size as it omits the number pad usually, on the right side of a standard keyboard. This makes it great for gamers or typists who don't use the number pad regularly, while still retaining all other features that come with a full-sized setup.

75% 

If you want to split the difference between TKL and compact keyboards then this option is best suited for you as it gives access to all the alphanumeric keys found in a full-sized design with no media or function row items included. Many users consider this type of layout their sweet spot between having most of their needs met without sacrificing too much in terms of space or port.

Compact

This is ideal if you require something even more condensed than TKL, as they usually come with only around 60+ keys, including your standard alphanumeric ones. This shorter layout brings with it more comfort and convenience due to its size and portability, allowing you to carry it wherever you go.

Understanding Keyboard Cases

Choosing the right keyboard case also plays an important role in your mechanical keyboard experience. Mechanical keyboard cases come in a variety of materials such as plastic and aluminum, each with its unique characteristics.

Plastic

Plastic cases are generally the lightest form of material and come in a variety of colors to choose from. Some plastic cases are even translucent, allowing you to see the inner workings of your keyboard.On the other hand, plastic cases can be more susceptible to scratches and wear over time, so they may require more maintenance than other materials.

Wood

Wooden cases bring a classic aesthetic and natural feel to keyboards that plastic just can't compete with. It's also typically more expensive than plastic and offers a good amount of durability.Wooden cases also come in multiple finishes, so you can customize your Keyboard however you like.

Aluminum

Unlike plastic, aluminum is typically heavier but offers superior durability and rigidity. Aluminum keyboards are a good choice for people who want mechanical models that look like luxury items. They tend to last longer with regular use than their plastic counterparts and also have an air of elegance about them.These more premium keyboards may cost more upfront but could save you money in the long run by lasting longer than their plastic counterparts.When it comes to materials for mechanical keyboard cases, aluminum is currently the most popular choice among enthusiast communities due to its high durability and thermal dissipation properties. However, if you're looking for something more affordable yet still reliable plastic or wood are both great alternatives as well.

Wrapping Up

Keyboard cases are a great way to protect your keyboard and make it easy to take with you on the go. But not all keyboards are created equal, so before you buy a case for your keyboard, it's important to know what kind of keyboard layout you have.If you're unsure of your keyboard layout, don't worry. We've got your back. Just contact us here and let us know what kind of device you have, and we'll get back to you with the best deals on keyboard cases and layouts.

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