FAQs

Why Mechanical Keyboards?

Many people have jobs that involve typing for most — if not all — hours of the work day. Why not enjoy how your keyboard feels? Other than this simple reason, people can get into the hobby for a number of reasons. Maybe you saw an awesome board on Reddit or you found keycaps that perfectly match your aesthetic. Maybe you thought they would make you better at video games. Whatever the reason… we’re excited to have you join our community!

Why did you make this site?

I needed a place to share my recommended starter boards with new people to the hobby. That spawned the map and, from there, a vendor list was needed for individual parts to help keep track of the ballooning vendor scene in the hobby. Zhol has recently compiled the excellent guide called Is This Good that I’m truncating to The Guide since kids don’t like to read.

What is the best way to use this site?

If you are new to the hobby, start on The Map and figure out what layout you want. If you have come into the hobby with a specific board in mind that you might have seen on reddit please start with The Guide. More desk space is always nice and you should really ask yourself what keys you are and aren’t using. For example, do you really need a numpad? Are you just constantly filling out spreadsheets? If not, then you probably don’t need one. From there just click the image for the size board you are interested in and peruse the options. Each board is linked on the image, and within each section the boards are sorted from most highly recommended to least. Although, if its on The Map, it is a board I recommend so even the bottom options are good choices. If its not on The Map, that is likely for a reason. This sorting does not apply to the macropad or 40s section.

Why aren’t there more ISO layout options?

If more good ISO options existed, I would link to them. Sorry, I know that sucks to hear, but such a small portion of the world uses ISO, making it harder to source.

How can I get my site on the vendor list?

You do not need to pay to be on the list, but brand-new vendors with no items or sales won’t even be considered. Please fill out the contact form and include the link to your site. From there, I will give your site a look and either add you to the applicable categories or ask some follow up questions. Basically, I’m only trying to list vendors I can trust so that the list can be a reliable resource for the community. If I lose trust in you as a vendor based on your actions, I will remove you from the list. If you sell DZ60 PCBs in different KBDfans cases and call them custom so you can up-charge and take advantage of new community members, then you are an asshat; please do not contact me about being on the list.