We believe you simply can't appreciate how this tool can improve your work experience until you’ve used one. We're happy to provide insight into the tools that we love to use!
When you hear mechanical keyboard, the first thing that probably comes to mind, is either a massive glowing gamer station or a gimmicky fake typewriter replica. We’re happy to try to disprove those stereotypes, and provide insight into our team’s efforts towards choosing mechanical keyboards while creating a workspace that keeps us happy and productive.
Mechanical keyboards are comprised of high quality components including spring activated switches, keys, and frames. You can choose the style of base, type of switches, types and colors of keys, and the layout of the keys. All these features allow the user to create the look and feel they prefer.
We turned to Raleigh to provide insight into his decision making process. He went through a lot of different keyboards and switches until he got his most recent and favorite keyboard. The main aspects he considered when choosing a mechanical keyboard were the switches and the layout.
"Personally, as I've gotten deeper in my career (as a developer), my preferences for what I look for in a keyboard, have evolved." - Raleigh
He started out with a 10 keyless keyboard with red switches, but missed the tactile feel and found that he made more mistakes. Red switches were great for playing computer games since the keys were easy to press without any tactile feel or resistance. However, at work, he went with brown switches with the tactile feel. He also started to experiment with different layouts. All of this leading to him finding his optimal keyboard setup.
"I found that the HHKB was my favorite small keyboard, while the 75% keyboard stood out because it has the function and arrow keys, along with full programmability." - Raleigh
We have developers, designers, project managers, operations, and content specialists who are all doing different types of work, but all of which are focused on providing value for customers.
As everyday users of technology, we have to acknowledge the physical part of the digital work we do. How we interact with our equipment or tools, and how the details involved in personalization can be very impactful on our outcomes and health. In the case of keyboards and writing code, the switches, key resistance, types and colors of keys, and back drop color are all details that can lead to both improved productivity and mood.
When you take the time to configure a keyboard, you have the satisfaction of using something you constructed. You know your space and tools meet your needs and you’ll ultimately enjoy your work more because of it.
One of the most surprising unknowns about mechanical keyboards that has drawn us in, is the vast online community that surrounds this tool. There are many outlets including Reddit, forums, groups, and websites that are dedicated to sharing new products, information, and images of mechanical keyboards.
In our studio, everyone who has one, even those that have chosen the more standard leaning Apple or Logitech models, can contribute to discussions on why their chosen product works best for them. They can also share ideas or thoughts on the intricacies of what influences decisions and preferences. The shared interest in the pieces that make up this essential tool is something that is fun, interesting, and has become something our team can rally around!
Quality Tools = Quality Work
We are dedicated to building the best products and doing great work for our clients, and a major aspect of that is to have quality tools to support our approach.