Reddit reviews E-Element Z-88 RGB 60% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Blue Switch, LED Backlit, Water Resistant, Compact 81 Keys Anti-Ghosting for Mac PC, Black

https://www.amazon.com/Element-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard-Switch/dp/B01FXF7HFC


This one. I can only compare with CM Storm QuickFire Rapid, which I tried at store, and it's pretty decent.

No need to apologize. I certainly haven't owned every board out there, so the best I can do is take a look at reviews to feature set with you.


So first, let's decide some things.
Do you want a backlight? If so, does it need to be RGB?


What size board do you prefer? I would suggest going no lower than tenkeyless if you're using it at all for some professional work, only because it could temporarily slow down your work rate because some keys will be in different positions or missing entirely. This may take getting used to. If you're up for that, that's cool too. Full size boards have a numberpad, some are larger with "macro" keys. There are variations with fewer keys, that maybe don't have arrow keys etc. and are slightly smaller. Then there's tenkeyless, which has no numbpad, and then smaller variations often with no function keys or arrow keys, with their functions require key combos.


We've got a price range, and we're going for mechanical, but I'm wondering how much branding and brand names matter to you. There are some boards out there with big logos, and they can be ugly as sin, doesn't affect functionality, but cosmetics are worth considering on something you look at daily. Next, do you need a brand that's "famous?" It may be hard to find a RAZER, Corsair, CoolerMaster, or other big names in the industry under $40, depending on your required feature set.

Finally, that brings us to switch type. There's a lot of brands of switch style, and if I had to guess, you're probably gonna have trouble finding Cherry MX, the most iconic switch type, in this range. That said, some of the "copy" switches are nearly identical and have pretty solid build quality, differences only noticeable by the most sensitive of typists. So here's a quick break down of the most popular switch types:

Blue: Tactile Bump during actuation, can feel it and hear it(loudest switch, clicks on bump, clacks when the key "bottoms out" or is pressed all the way down)

Brown: Very light tactile bump(I don't really feel it if I've just been typing on my blue or Razer green switch board), makes a sound when bottoming out. This is considered the happy medium, somewhat silent, can be made very quiet with an accessory, still had tactile feedback.

Red: Silent, linear switches. Not whisper silent, but much quieter, no noise or tactile bump when the keypress is actuated. I really don't think you'll be able to snag a new board with these.

Black: Silent, almost exactly like reds, but require more force to press down, they're not too popular as people complain they make their fingers tired. However, I see them a lot under budget boards.


The Blue, Brown and Reds are the most common. There are more switches out there, and some brands use different colors to associate the style, but the styles are largely the same.


I'm gonna link(not affiliate links) some boards, just to show the styles and backlighting options off, these are mostly a bit out of your price range, but this should give you a general idea of what they look like, and how much extra things like RGB cost:

Pretty standard tenkeylessboard: https://www.amazon.com/TOMOKO-Water-Resistant-Mechanical-Keyboard-Non-Conflicting/dp/B01DBJTZU2/ref=sr_1_31?ie=UTF8&qid=1520206833&sr=8-31&keywords=rgb+mechanical+keyboard


A compact board, I believe it's a 75% variation: https://www.amazon.com/Element-Mechanical-Keyboard-Waterproof-Anti-Ghosting/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1520205858&sr=8-4&keywords=rgb+mechanical+keyboard


Tenkeyless RGB: https://www.amazon.com/Keyboard-Mechanical-Redragon-illuminated-ABS-Metal/dp/B019O9BLVY/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1520205858&sr=8-5&keywords=rgb+mechanical+keyboard


Fullsize board, the standard: https://www.amazon.com/Element-Mechanical-Programmable-Waterproof-Anti-Ghosting/dp/B073QPDZHQ/ref=sr_1_45?ie=UTF8&qid=1520206906&sr=8-45&keywords=rgb+mechanical+keyboard


Now, these are mostly "cheap" brands, in that they're not ultra famous like RAZER, or Corsair, etc. But, these are some of the more highly rated boards. Of course, you absolutely do not have to buy from amazon either, and these are mostly out of the range, so please get back to me on the style and backlighting options you'd like. I think one of these "knock off" brands will be your best bet, particularly if you want backlighting. Other users are of course free to offer advice too.


Once you tell me, generally, the size, and switch type we're after, we can try to find some boards that are on sale, not just the stuff I quickly found that was relatively cheap and well reviewed. Sometimes you can get something that seems a decent price, for even less if you watch and wait. So that might be worth considering too.

Please let me know your preferences, and I hope my explanations were somewhat clear.

E-Element z88. I’ve had it for about a year, it’s great. Not sure of the switches but I’m pretty sure they come in Outemu blues, reds or browns. Great keyboard for about 40 bucks. It comes with rgb so that’s a bonus, and on top of that you don’t have to solder to change the switches. You can find it here

Keyboard (note I have a bunch of custom keycaps)

Mouse pad (it's under my keyboard because I don't have enough room)

Mouse

It doesn't have to be rainbow, everything has all different colors and patterns you can set it to. I had everything purple for a while earlier.

I think you need heavier tactile switches. A board with outemu purples would be perfect for you in my opinon

mx browns aren't that tactile and they're just overall bad scratchy switches

here's what you can do if you want something cheap: Get this board off amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Element-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard-Switch/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1521265056&sr=8-3&keywords=z-88

and buy these switches: https://mehkee.com/collections/switches-and-parts/products/outemu-switches-purple-teal?variant=48787280079

overall the cost will be around $71 and you'll have to replace the switches yourself (which is really easy, you just pull them out with the included puller tool and replace them with the switches you buy)

ask and you shall receive

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FXF7HFC?psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/Element-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard-Switch/dp/B01FXF7HFC


This one. I can only compare with CM Storm QuickFire Rapid, which I tried at store, and it's pretty decent.
Reply by OP

Are you even a little bit tech savvy? Part of why there isn't a real bundled solution to this is because it's pretty easy to just make your own.

Find a Raspberry Pi. Install a basic OS (Arch or something) with an editor like Emacs or Vim, and nothing else. Get a housing that can accommodate a little LCD panel like the one in the Freewrite. Pick a keyboard you like. Boom. You have your own personal Freewrite for under $100.

In terms of keyboards, you can get really nice "portable" mechanical keyboards like this one: https://www.amazon.ca/Element-Mechanical-Keyboard-Waterproof-Anti-Ghosting/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=sr_1_9?keywords=portable+mechanical+keyboard&qid=1574228057&sr=8-9

Find one with the switches you want, and you're off to the races.

For getting your materials off the computer, there are 3 major ways:

1. Set up SSH (it's easy) so you can access your Pi's filesystem from any computer via the internet
   
2. Remove the Pi's micro SD card and put it in a computer, read files manually
   
3. Save all files on a USB stick or something similar
   
   This is what your typical writing experience would look like on a setup like this: http://jasonwryan.com/images/post_images/distract-full.png
   
   ​
   
   Let me know if you have any questions! This sounds like it could be a fun little project. I may do it too.

Basic cheap keyboard, do not now about reliability, but it depends on how careful you will be with this keyboard too. Cheap keyboards have tendencies to double click and other stuff in kinda short period of time. My first mechanical keyboard was in this price range and everything is good after the one year of use. It is Drevo Gramr, kinda good keyboard.

You may also be interested in this. This is keyboard with hot-swappable PCB. That means, that you can just pull switches without soldeting and put new ones.

If you want a cheap great mechanical keyboard I have this one and its great, I have it with clicky clacky blues and its the best thing I have ever bought.

Mouse - Corsair Scimitar

Keyboard - (My personal favorite) E-Element Z-88

Good question - after checking Amazon, it seems the model I bought is currently unavailable:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01N5F6W51/ref=psd_mlt_bc_B01N5F6W51

The black DIY version is still around, although reviews say it may not come with the neat little goodies like switch puller:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01FXF7HFC/ref=psd_mlt_nbc_B01N5F6W51_bi

Good luck on the search!

There's Ajazz A33 RGB, but it's got Zorro switches which ain't well received.

There's Z-88 in 81 key layout w/ Outemus. That's cheap and may be just barely good enough for you.

This exactly. I have 4-5 keyboards (some over 100 usd). This $45 one is my favorite. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FXF7HFC/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I can't speak to the quality, and they aren't 60%, but these are really cheap:

https://www.amazon.com/Element-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard-Switch/dp/B01FXF7HFC/

https://www.amazon.com/Redragon-KUMARA-Backlit-Mechanical-Keyboard/dp/B016MAK38U/

It gets confusing fast with the naming scheme E-Element uses.

The E-Element Z-88 could be the 81-key model here or the 104-key model here.

The E-Element Z-77 could be the 87-key model here or the 104-key model here.

I don't know what they were thinking, but these really are great keyboards.

BTW, I think your twins might have different fathers...

I have and like my Logitech G410 which fits all of your criteria. From logitech you will pay more than your budget but you can get it for cheaper via 3rd party. Its $70 right now on amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Spectrum-Tenkeyless-Mechanical-920-007731/dp/B01645FHEI

I also really like and actually use my Drevo TKL more tho which is not RGB: https://www.amazon.com/DREVO-84-Key-Tenkeyless-Mechanical/dp/B01H6DHITE/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1506356645&sr=1-5&keywords=drevo But one of the main reasons I really like this keyboard isthat the F-keys are directly in line with the number keys.

Drevo also has a RGB option but it doesnt have the inline F-keys: https://www.amazon.com/Element-Water-Proof-Mechanical-Keyboard-Anti-Ghost/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=sr_1_15?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1506356645&sr=1-15&keywords=drevo

Overall I use my drevo for the very specific reason of the in-line f-keys and its a feature I really value. However if this isnt important I would recomend the G410. But any of these listed keyboards wont steer you wrong.

Cheers!

E-Element Z-88 RGB LED Backlit Waterproof Mechanical Keyboard

Tenkeyless Full Sized

Comes in Black and Blue switch variants and you can actually swap out the switches, no de-soldering needed. Has a number of RGB features though no individual LED control apparently.

It's my Christmas present from my fiancee this year and I'm looking forward to it pretty badly now.

This is a link to my current keyboard if it helps: https://www.amazon.com/Element-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard-Switch/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1521516784&sr=8-1&keywords=z+element+z88

The switches just look like little blue crosses. Not sure if that is the same as Cherry MX

this

This is one of the boards I use at work and I LOVE it.

https://www.amazon.com/E-Element-Water-Proof-Mechanical-Keyboard-Anti-Ghost/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=pd_sim_147_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01FXF7HFC&pd_rd_r=KFJKM9P8T6F7K1APF547&pd_rd_w=BVC50&pd_rd_wg=FKfJA&psc=1&refRID=KFJKM9P8T6F7K1APF547

Edit: blue switch link instead of black

E-Element Z-88 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Blue Switch - Tactile & Clicky, LED Backlit, Water Resistant, Compact 81 Keys Anti-Ghosting for Mac PC, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_OEzQBbQGG1RWT

Gaote/Outemu also has a sealed switch design that sometimes appears on budget boards. Here's an example, you can tell by the stem shape.

LED's are PCB mounted.

The extra switches are all Outemu Blues.

The sockets are only compatible with Outemu switches, but you can sharpen the pins slightly (left is clipped, right is stock) and fit other brands of switches in. I don't know how that'll affect the resale value of the switches.

The case itself resonates a bit more than other keyboards I've tried; bottoming out produces a satisfying but inconsistent "thwock". The stabilizers don't rattle at all, which is good, and the switches I've replaced feel perfectly secure as well.

That said, if you're considering dropping Gaterons in a board, you might want to look at their slightly more expensive ones; this sale is for the static rainbow-colored keyboard. For $15 more (or less if they go on sale/used) you can get the real per-key RGB lighting versions in either TKL or 75%.

This

That's what I figured. I didn't think that needing a keyboard that requires switches to be desoldered to remove them needed to be said as that's 99% of keyboards :P

But yea, there are cheaper options like TeamWolf Zhuque or the E-Element Z-88. There's also the K-Type on Massdrop, but that's above your budget. PC Gaming Race, who makes the GMMK, is working on a TKL version, though I'm not sure when that will be available.

One thing to note is that in a Massdrop Discussion for another E-Element keyboard, people are saying that it isn't compatible with other Cherry MX/clone switches. I don't know if this is the case with the Z-88 I linked above as well, but I'd be wary of that.

https://www.amazon.com/Element-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard-Switch/dp/B01FXF7HFC
only in white... it took forever to find
she wanted white, rainbow and clicky. I wanted no numpad and long term use.

FYI- no num pad has to do with ergonomics and desk spacing.

we love it so far

I tried a 60% but I think I am a bit too old to retrain muscle memory and remain productive. I use the escape and`~ key way too much (due to both linux and vim). Maybe I should try again, though. Right now I am on this: https://www.amazon.com/Element-Water-Proof-Mechanical-Keyboard-Anti-Ghost/dp/B01FXF7HFC

How about this?

Probably a MagicForce 68 (sold under Qisan on Amazon) or one of the DREVO brand keyboards (your choice of which one takes your fancy). Both brands have models in both black and white and ship with Prime shipping off of Amazon.
The MagicForce 68 is probably the most popular recommendation for an entry level MK.

Qisan's keyboard store page
DREVO's store page

Other models on Amazon that you might want to check out: (note these don't seem as popular as the MagicForce or DREVOs)
Redragon K552 KUMARA
TOMOKO 87 Key LED Backlit Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
E-Element Z-88
E-Element Z-88 (full sized)
Ajazz Firstblood Geek RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
Velocifire TKL01
Velocifire VM01

edit: links

It's a budget one, but it's been VERY good to me. I personally had to switch to a 75% only for Fortnite building and quieter red switches but it's got a lot of functionality that the super short keyboards don't have.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=twister_B07DDDV7W6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I have been using my keyboard since Februrary of 2017.. It had worked fantastically for the first 6 months but has been getting worse over the past month. It very regularly types extra characters sso myy ssenntenccees wwindd upp llookkinnnng llikee thhhisss. Is this possible to fix?
using: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FXF7HFC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I have this keyboard with Outemu Blue switches. Love the form factor. Gives me more space for my mouse. Inexpensive. Looks great.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FXF7HFC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Thanks for explaining, I learned something new thanks to you.
I got this MK to experiment with, it's my first and I can see now it's downhill from here to endless pursuit of MK.

E-Element RGB MK, Brown Switch, LED Backlit, 81 Keys.

Because it's has different lighting mods with individual let keys, it might have some sort of program to interface with the MK.

E-Element Z-88

this is the keyboard that I use and I have no complaints.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FXF7HFC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

its E-Element Z-88 with outamu blue switches, with custom keycaps. I didnt switch all the keycaps since I liked this combo better than the all-white.

How about the Z-88 RGB?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01FXF7HFC


Crap? Looks rad.

Are you looking for something expensive, name brand? I've had This keyboard for a while now, it's my main keyboard at home and has also survived a year's worth of being packed and travelling around for a while and still going strong. Not true RGB in the sense that every key is addressable but it's got a few different present options and color schemes.

So this is the second time I've tried delving into your subreddit and wikis. Last time I couldn't make a decision and gave up. This time I'm determined to join the club. I've managed to make some decisions to narrow things down:

• 75% or TKL. I want my F keys but I don't want a numpad.
  
  
• Cherry MX Blue. I want the tactile and noisy click. I also want the option to buy some of those sweet custom keycaps I've been seeing.
  
  
• Backlighting. Preferably blue
  
  
• I'd like to stay under $150, but I'd spend up to $200 if someone can convince me it's worth it.
  
  
  From there I've narrowed it down to a couple options:
  
  
• E-Element Z-88
  
  
• Ducky One
  
  
• KBParadise V80
  
  
• CM Masterkeys Pro S
  
  
  
  The first one is obviously much cheaper, I'm worried that means poor build quality. I'd rather spend the money on something that will last. Should I just go with the Ducky? Is there another keyboard I missed that I should be considering?
  
  (Bonus Points: I really like my trackpoint, if there's a board I've missed that meets all my other criteria, plus a trackpoint I'd be eternally grateful)
  
  

A 60% keyboard!

This is also $50

This one too

$40

Looking to get my first mechanical keyboard with a budget of around £50, Have my eye on these 4.

Redragon K552-N KUMARA Mechanical Gaming Keyboard (Black)

Plugable Compact 87-Key Mechanical Keyboard

James Donkey 619 Mechanical Keyboard Red Switch

E-Element Z-88

I do a good amount of typing and gaming & noise doesn't matter much to me, nor do any extras. Advice?

if ur looking for new a headset, SteelSeries Arctis 5 are awesome. Super comfortable, long cable with detachable ends, really sleek and minimal design. Would recommend over Logitech, Kingston offerings. Mouse i always go with logitech, my G203 is a budget gaming mouse that works fine. Finally E-Element has some really nice budget mech keyboards that have worked great for me. I sold my full size to stick with my tenkeyless and i love it.

It depends pretty heavily on what you want the board for and/or what specs you want, given the switch differences. I've got the E-Element Z-88 (which is a bit cheaper at amazon assuming you're in the US), and while I've had one (possible two) of the outemu switches fail, it comes with enough switches to compensate (5 I believe) and it's hot-swappable. That being said, it's a loud enough board that I can't use it for gaming with an open mic--that's all anyone hears. So far I've been happy with it, but without specific goals/desires, I can't really pin down much more than that.

I paid $35 (on feebay) with free shipping for this keyboard:

[https://www.amazon.com/Element-Water-Proof-Mechanical-Keyboard-Anti-Ghost/dp/B01FXF7HFC]

After a year of heavy use this keyboard still functions perfectly. Love it.

It's hip to be square, for $0.60 extra and only in black with blue switches at regular price

This I could afford:

https://www.amazon.com/E-Element%C2%AE-Water-Proof-Mechanical-Keyboard-Anti-Ghost/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=sr_1_1?tag=ricdadtmobs-20

What are your thoughts?

Looking for a mechanical keyboard with around 81 keys like this one E-Element Z-88 RGB LED Backlit Water-Proof Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with 81 Keys Anti-Ghost keys, Blue Switches, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Y5QxybAQAA5R8

Are there any you would recommend?

Hey guys I'm thinking of getting my brothers each a mech keyboard for Christmas. Looking to spend under $50 for each board to keep it inexpensive.
I was thinking of this persons post-
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/5hwt8l/buying_mpow_mechanical_gaming_keyboard_with_blue/?st=iwmcvn1v&sh=4f9d06ff

or maybe

https://www.amazon.com/E-Element-Water-Proof-Mechanical-Keyboard-Anti-Ghost/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=sr_1_33?ie=UTF8&qid=1481560300&sr=8-33&keywords=mechanical+keyboard

Any suggestions?
Thanks!

E-Element Z-88 RGB LED Backlit Water-Proof Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with 81 Keys Anti-Ghost keys, Blue Switches, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_JSTvyb5JRBZX9

Look at this on eBay http://www.ebay.com/itm/122240233042

You'll save some money on eBay, but wait a lot longer for shipping.

I've read good things about this one considering the price.

Current version is $45:
E-element Z-88 (Amazon)

E-Element Z-88 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Blue Switch, LED Backlit, Water Resistant, Compact 81 Keys Anti-Ghosting for Mac PC, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_VzCZDbWAM1DGZ

I’m sorry for not including on first post.

Hey all, I'm new here and hooked. Want to be sure I'm understanding things correctly. Is this keycap set compatible with this keyboard? As far as I can tell it's the only the right shift key that will be offsized.

I've done a bunch of reading here in the last week and feel like I'm starting to get it. Probably at the point where asking questions is the best way to learn now.

E-Element Z-88 RGB (Amazon Canada link). Actual RGB, but lacks the ability to show specific colors.

Z-88 from amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Element-Water-Proof-Mechanical-Keyboard-Anti-Ghost/dp/B01FXF7HFC

This one is a little small, and quite rgb. It also might be a little loud for a work setting, but I like it.

https://www.amazon.com/Element-Water-Proof-Mechanical-Keyboard-Anti-Ghost/dp/B01FXF7HFC

An alternative to the AK33 that might interest you is the E-Element Z-88. It has a very similar layout, but is slightly more standard (better aftermarket keycap compatibility) AND has hot swap switch sockets. Even though the sockets will only accept Outemu switches without modification, the good news is that newer Outemu switches are actually quite nice. I'm not a fan of clickies so I replaced the stock Blues with Purples and discovered a contender for my favorite switch in the process.

Not that I want to rob you of an opportunity to essentially build your own board, but in case you just wanted to get up and running with some customizability...

Anyhow, let us know what you end up with! Best of luck.

I highly recommend the Super Scholar Z-88 (there are multiple revisions of this keyboard). It does have multiple RGB configs and you're able to replace the keys from stock to another type (Blues, Reds, Blacks, Browns). I was able to convert mine from Blue keys to Browns and I've been extremely satisfied. My wife owns the same keyboard with Reds and she loves the feel and response. Most importantly, the keyboard uses a detachable USB and works flawlessly with the Xim Apex.

​

Link

I have an Ultra Classic as my office board - similar to OP's, with blanks.

Best board I've used (been through several). I like heavy switches (all my boards have had blues), and I have yet to find something that feels as good as buckling springs.

I have a cheapo Z-88 from Amazon that I'm going to dissect and swap some 120g springs. I'll let you know if that's better. :)

I have one of these guys. It has a 'rainbow' backlight, so it's not exactly RGB but it has different colored backlights.

My wife uses this similar keyboard that's actually full RGB, smaller and a bit more expensive. Both of these keyboards have full sized versions that are also inexpensive.

I'm not great when it comes to mouses, I use a decent trackball mouse but most people hate them despite being obviously better.

Laptop: Eluktronics P650 w/ i7 and gtx 1070

Laptop Stand: Vivo Arm and
Tray

Mouse: Logitech G Pro

Keyboard: E Element Z88

Monitor: Acer ED242QR

Running Rainmeter and Wallpaper Engine.

https://www.amazon.com/Element-Mechanical-Gaming-Keyboard-Switch/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1540422279&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=e-element%2Bkeyboard&dpPl=1&dpID=51EiMiU48dL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

Here's an 81 Key with RGB. Costs around $45:

https://www.amazon.com/Element-Water-Proof-Mechanical-Keyboard-Anti-Ghost/dp/B01FXF7HFC

Possibly an unpopular option, but if you want a cheap board that you don't want to risk messing up with soldering, the Z-88 81-key is a solid option that you may have luck with. Comes stock with outemu blues/blacks, but you can "CIY" with the swappable-sockets (no-solder) using your own plate-mounted green switches.

https://www.amazon.com/Element-Water-Proof-Mechanical-Keyboard-Anti-Ghost/dp/B01FXF7HFC

Hey, I bought this https://www.amazon.com/Element-Water-Proof-Mechanical-Keyboard-Anti-Ghost/dp/B01FXF7HFC keyboard, which comes with blue outemu switches. It works great and I think that it has been a great investment, but i have been using it for four months and im getting bored of the switches. I am looking forward to buy something like gateron or outemu red or black. Can I just replace them? This keyboard came with 5 outemu switches replacement so, will i be able to use the gateron here without solding? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8d_cWe_gDc, here in minute 3:10 you can see the guy changing switches. Thanks!!

Do the Anne Pro 2 and Ducky Keyboards I’ve smaller and/or closer keys than most standard keyboards? The keys always looks smaller and/or closer together when I see pics of them, idk if that’s how it really is or if it’s just the image.

I use an Element Z 88 Keyboard keyboard from Amazon, got it for $40 and I really like it. It’s my first mechanical and gaming keyboard so I don’t have much experience for comparisons sake. Do you know if it has the same key dimensions, spacing, and setup as Anne Pro 2 and Ducky?

It's the E-Element Z-88. Just a little budget mech, I went with the Otemu blues. It's actually really great for the price, to my surprise. Keycaps kind of suck though.

It's this- E-Element Z-88 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Blue Switch - Tactile & Clicky, LED Backlit, Water Resistant, Compact 81 Keys Anti-Ghosting for Mac PC, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_lrYiDbK6FYNX2

Had it for almost 2 years now and I love the little guy. It's so clicky!

here

https://www.amazon.ca/Element-Mechanical-Keyboard-Waterproof-Anti-Ghosting/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?keywords=e+element&qid=1565049876&s=gateway&sr=8-2

What about this one? Everything looks normal as far as I can tell.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FXF7HFC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_WC9tDbMJT28V6

Glad you pointed out the keys on the first one, didn’t even notice!

Trying to keep the price low (<$100) but looking for a compact keyboard. Thoughts on these two?

• Corsair Vengeance K65
  
• E-Element Z-88 RGB LED

Hello!
My budget is around 60 euros. I don't mind how big it is. TKL is fine, even 65% or 60% is fine. Don't really want/need full size.
I've taken a look at a lot of keyboards. It's hard to fine good ones, but this is what i've found. I must note 3 things: 1. My parents are involved in the decision. 2. I like all switches exept MX reds. 3. I live in europe but can order in USA (my father works in the US, he can bring it home)

This list is ordered in most intersted to least interested.

1. Anne Pro 60% keyboard with RGB lights and Gateron switches 65 euros shipped to Belgium. Would go for Gateron Blue switches. Only reason I haven't ordered is, is because my parents don't really want to order from Banggood (Chines website)
   
2. Magicforce 68 30-60 euros. Good deal, but I don't like the white keyboad, and the black keyboards are very rare.
   
3. Drevo Gramr 84-keyboard 40 euros, backlight. Seems like a good deal.
   
4. Ajazz RGB keyboard Looks like a good deal for 56 euros. RGB lights, apparantly very nice (the lights)
   
5. Drevo Calibur RGB For 50 USD, looks alright
   
6. E-element keyboard again, a cheap RGB keyboard. Find it weird that RGB is an option at my price point.
   These are some I think are nice.
   I also had my eye on a 40 USD reddragon keyboard.
   
   So, I know everyone's probably gonna be like: Go for the Anne Pro. And trust me, I would want to. But my parents don't like ordering from unknown websites, defintly as it ships for China.
   Any other suggestions?

Really depends on what feature set you're looking at.


Rule of thumb is that if you're seeing aggressive marketing from a company, their boards suck. Don't buy corsair, don't buy razor, don't buy Logitech. These can be worth your time if you get them seriously marked down but that rarely happens today.


If you just want a generic, entry level mechanical keyboard, Red Dragon is a stupidly good place to start. 49 bucks for a full feature keyboard with RGB LED's.


If you want the smaller form factor you have other choices too.


>But I don't care about LED's, I just want a keyboard that's durable!


Then you're buying the god father of the modern keyboard- either the IBM Model M, or it's family of virtual clones from Unicomp


>But I want to play video games like a pro and that's not even a mechanical keyboard!


Correct! The Model M is a membrane keyboard which limits it's ability to register repeated key strikes. It's also the best keyboard on the market for general use because of it's robust after market. Unicomp makes sure there's a healthy after market for replacement parts and use a grade of plastic that actually holds up well and doesn't yellow.


If you really need a full mechanical keyboard I'd still direct you back to the top. Buy a Red Dragon.