(Opens in a new window) Read Our HyperX Alloy Origins Review Among enthusiasts and gamers who are willing to pay more for keyboards, there's a pretty clear hierarchy: mechanical is usually preferred, but requires more parts and more expensive materials. With mechanical keyboards, pressing each key actually flips a switch that completes a circuit, and the feel of the key comes from a combination of that switch and a spring that pushes each key back into place.

In the former, pressing a key pushes down on a rubber dome, which both activates the signal and provides resistance to return the key to starting position. So, What's a 'Hybrid' Mechanical Keyboard?įor most typists, keyboards broadly fall into two categories, membrane and mechanical. In successfully threading this needle, SteelSeries has made one of the better midrange gaming keyboards around. The most interesting among these is the $99.99 Apex 5, a per-key RGB backlit keyboard with a 'hybrid mechanical' switch that feels and sounds like a mechanical keyboard, but uses the membrane actuation found in budget and laptop boards.

Now the company has launched some more affordable products that aim to bring its attractive and comfortable designs to a wider audience. SteelSeries makes some outstanding gaming keyboards, but its gear tends to be expensive.

Fully mechanical keyboards available in same price range.

How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication.

How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac.

How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files.

How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill.How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad.How to Block Robotexts and Spam Messages.