What Keyboard Should You Buy in 2024 (BUDGET FRIENDLY)

Summary

In this video, 'HippioTech' shares their top budget keyboard picks, focusing on those that are in stock and hot-swappable for beginners. They cover a range of options from mid-range to ultra-budget, including the Kikron Q series and the Dust Silver Lilac 75. 'HippioTech' also discusses key switches, with a spotlight on factory-lubed switches like the Morandi, and affordable keycaps. For the ultimate budget, they recommend the Wilmier 60 and the EU Sue, which can be significantly improved with some DIY modding. The video is a treasure trove for those seeking quality keyboards without breaking the bank.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video is a comprehensive guide to budget keyboards, curated by 'hippiotech', who has three years of experience in the field.
• 🔨 The recommended keyboards are either in stock or will be soon, and are hot-swappable for beginner-friendliness.
• 💰 The video covers a range of budget keyboards, starting from mid-range options like the Kikron Q series and Q Pro Series, known as 'good enough' keyboards.
• 🎮 For gamers, 'hippiotech' suggests that most gaming keyboards are about marketing, but does recommend the Wooding 60HE for specific gaming needs.
• 🔨 The video emphasizes the importance of modding budget keyboards to enhance their sound and feel, with examples of before and after modding.
• 🛠️ 'Hippiotech' discusses the value of factory-lubed switches, such as the Morandi switches, which are highly praised for their out-of-the-box performance.
• 🎨 The video also touches on keycaps, suggesting options like GMMK keycaps and more affordable alternatives like Idabel Blue Cat keycaps.
• 🏆 Among the budget options, the Dust Silver Lilac 75 is highlighted as an impressive stock keyboard, while the Kikron V1 is noted for its value at $64.99.
• 🔗 Affiliate links for the recommended keyboards and switches are provided for viewers' convenience.
• 👍 The video concludes with a call to action for viewers to subscribe and engage with the content, emphasizing the community aspect of the keyboard hobby.

Q & A

What are the ground rules for the keyboards recommended in the script?

The keyboards recommended must be in stock or soon and must be hot swappable, making them beginner-friendly.

What is the term used to describe the Kikron Q series of keyboards in the video?

The Kikron Q series of keyboards are referred to as 'the good enough keyboard' because they offer decent quality at various price points and layouts.

Why does the speaker recommend against buying the GMMK Pro keyboard?

The speaker believes the GMMK Pro is overpriced and not worth the cost, despite its popularity.

What is special about the Dust Silver Lilac 75 keyboard mentioned in the script?

The Dust Silver Lilac 75 is highlighted as one of the most impressive stock keyboards the speaker has seen, starting at $80 for a fully built keyboard with various color options.

What is the Zoom 75 keyboard known for, according to the video?

The Zoom 75 is known for its foam and well-lubed stabilizers, which contribute to its good sound and feel.

What advice does the speaker give for those looking for a gaming keyboard?

The speaker suggests that most keyboards work for gaming and that the marketing of 'gaming keyboards' is often unnecessary, recommending the Wooding 60HE for specific use cases.

What is the Morandi switch and why is it praised in the script?

The Morandi switch is a factory-lubed switch that comes pre-lubed for a smooth sound and feel, making it one of the best switches the speaker has tried from the factory.

What are some budget keycap options recommended in the video?

Some budget keycap options include the B keycaps for around $25, Idabel Blue Cat keycaps for $50, and some gazen keycaps available on Amazon for $42.

What is the significance of the NJ80 and Sense75 keyboards in the budget keyboard discussion?

The NJ80 and Sense75 are highlighted as good value options in the budget custom keyboard category, with the Sense75 being particularly noted for its aluminum construction and potential for sound improvement with minor modifications.

How does the speaker transform a budget keyboard like the EU Sue into a better typing experience?

The speaker upgrades the EU Sue by replacing its keycaps and switches, demonstrating that with some time and effort, even a budget keyboard can be significantly improved.