Keychron C1 Hot-swappable Wired Mechanical Computer Keyboard with Gateron G Pro Brown Switch Double-Shot ABS Keycaps White Backlight

I've never had a mechanical keyboard before, but wanted to invest in a nicer keyboard because I spend about 1/3 of every day typing. While I considered other keyboards, I ended up picking this one because of its flexibility/modifiability while still being 100% beginner-friendly. I got a good bargain by purchasing used, so I paid only $51--at that price it really can't be beat. It was hard to find an "entry-level" mechanical keyboard that was high-quality without ridiculous rainbow glowy lights all over it. (Sure, RGB features on those blinged-out gaming keyboards can be disabled, but then it feels like I'm paying a premium for a feature I didn't even want.) This keyboard ticks all the boxes for me and has been a delight to use so far. Pros: - The stock keycaps feel high quality. Of course they're replaceable too, if they ever wear out or I want a change. - Pleasantly subtle color scheme. No rainbow glowy lights. They even include extra ESC keycaps if you don't like the orange one it comes with. - Switches and stabilizers feel buttery smooth to me, but I am a mechanical keyboard newbie, so I'm comparing it to the cheap scissor-mechanism keyboards I'm used to. - Wired USB-C with a replaceable cable. I hate Bluetooth keyboards and mice, and far prefer a trusty plug-n-play peripheral like this that never needs a battery or disconnects itself at inconvenient times. It Just... Works. Info: - Can switch between Mac and Windows/Linux layout on the fly. Extra keycaps for alt/option/command/WIN are included too so you can set it up for your preferred layout. - I won't be using the keyboard backlight much, since even when I program in the dark I'm still touch-typing. But occasionally I gotta hunt-and-peck some special function key, so I guess it's nice to have. It has several silly/aesthetic lighting patterns that I will never use, haha. - I chose Brown switches and am happy with them, though they are slightly louder than I was expecting. (Mechanical keyboard nerds aren't lying when they wax enthusiastic about the satisfying clackety noises.) The hot-swappable feature means a noob like me can try different switches without having to solder, if I were so inclined. Cons: - Keycaps are ABS plastic, which tends to be less durable than PBT and will attract finger oils over time. (Though since they are removable, can easily clean or replace them.) - Maybe the loudness of the switches is a con if you are in an open plan office; though with some practice I think I can learn to type more quietly on these Brown switches, since they require less forceful presses and are more precise than basic cheapo keyboards I've used until now. I never expected to feel so positively about a basic computer peripheral! Guess I'm a mech keyboard enthusiast now? Read more

Terrific mechanical keyboard. I really love everything about this. This is my work computer, and it's a great keyboard to type on all day. It is truly a pleasure to use and makes work more enjoyable. The keyboard came set up for Apple. All I had to do was swap out a few keys to make it a Windows keyboard. It was very easy and everything is included. You get a tool to remove the key, a tool to remove the switch, and some backup keys. The tactile blue switches are amazing. They are clicky and responsive. My typing has improved since upgrading to this keyboard. They are definitely not too loud. They are very satisfying to type on. Another feature that I really liked is the ultra-long, braided cord. It's a high-quality cord, and it is easy to tuck away. I was going to get a custom cord, but this one is fine for now as it's so long and stealthy. I think the best feature is the stay-on backlighting. This is by far the best lighting I have ever seen on a keyboard. The light is crisp and bright, but not too bright. There are a ton of different lighting effects, and they are all smooth and fun. I really like that the light just stays on all the time. My last keyboard only lit up when I typed, and I really didn't like that. I don't need to have as many lights on around me to see the keyboard at night. Overall this was an awesome buy, and I hope to use it for many years to come. I will purchase more switches and keycaps in the future. Read more

Great keyboard, very functional and good size. I use it as a travel keyboard since it's small, lightweight, and doesn't have any battery built in (so can go in checked baggage). Only thing that took some getting used to is the key switches. I'm used to cherry mx blues, these browns are closer to reds with a slight actuation trigger. Requires less force compared to the cherry mx blues - slightly quieter though. Keyboard works well with both macos and windows. Can lock the f row to functions or f keys, which is nice. Backlight brightness is also adjustable, has 3 levels + off (wasn't clear to me if this was the case before buying). Also comes with replacement keycaps for windows and mac shortcut keys, and a black escape keycap in case you don't like the bright orange. Read more