When you think about tools for graphic design, you probably picture a fast laptop, a colour-calibrated monitor, or a trusty tablet and stylus. But there’s one tool that often gets overlooked… your keyboard!
If you spend hours every day in Illustrator, Photoshop, or InDesign, a good keyboard can genuinely make your workflow smoother and more enjoyable. That’s where mechanical keyboards come in, and for me it’s something that I wish I’d invested in sooner.
Let’s break down the basics, why they’re worth considering for designers, and what to look for when choosing one.
What Makes a Keyboard ‘Mechanical’?
Unlike standard membrane keyboards, a mechanical keyboard uses individual mechanical switches under each key. These switches are what give each keystroke its distinct feel, sound, and precision. But why does this matter for designers?
More reliable shortcuts: Precise actuation means fewer missed Ctrl+Z’s or accidental brush switches.
Comfort for long sessions: The tactile feedback reduces finger fatigue over hours of editing.
Custom layouts: Many mechanical boards can be reprogrammed to match your workflow.
Switch Types: Finding Your Feel
The switch type shapes how your keyboard feels and sounds. Here are the basics:
Linear switches (red): Smooth and quiet, great for rapid key presses and minimal distraction. Many designers prefer these for shared studio spaces.
Tactile switches (brown): Features a small bump which lets you feel when a key registers. Good if you like physical feedback but don’t want loud clicks.
Clicky switches (blue): Tactile and clicky, giving pure typewriter vibes! Fun for solo work but not studio-friendly if you share space.
Layouts and Sizes: Pick What Fits Your Desk
As a designer, desk real estate is precious, with your mouse, sketchbook, and coffee mug all competing for space. The good news is mechanical keyboards come in many different sizes:
Full-size – 104 keys : A traditional classic keyboard layout.
96% – 100 keys : A compact full sized keyboard, retaining the numpad.
80% (TKL) – 87 keys : Known as a Tenkeyless keyboard, which drops the numpad.
75% – 84 keys : A compact Tenkeyless keyboard, retains the function keys.
65% – 68 keys: A Compact keyboard with the function keys integrated into standard number keys.
60% – 61 keys: A Mini keyboard, with the arrow keys integrated into the K,M,< and > keys.
Why Graphic Designers Love Them
Better Workflow: Programmable keys and macros can speed up repetitive tasks.
Aesthetics Matter: Mechanical keyboards can be minimalist, retro, or bold – another piece of your desk that reflects your style and individuality.
Keycap Customisation: You can swap keycaps for different colours, fonts, or even custom legends for your most-used shortcuts.
Durability: Mechanical boards are built to last, surviving endless deadlines and late-night edits. Fun Fact – Keychron switches are guaranteed for up to 50 million keystrokes!
Things to Keep in Mind
Noise: If you work in a shared studio, avoid loud clicky switches – your co-workers will thank you.
Try Before You Buy: If possible, test a few switches or order a switch tester kit.
Budget: You don’t need a £400 custom build – many solid prebuilt boards start around £75–£150.
Hot-swappable: Some keyboards let you swap switches without soldering. Great if you want to experiment.
Final Thoughts
Mechanical keyboards aren’t just for gamers – they can be a surprisingly great upgrade for designers too. Better comfort, faster shortcuts, a more satisfying feel, and a desk setup that makes you want to sit down and create.
For me the 96% Keychron K4 with brown switches is the perfect balance of compact form factor whilst still retaining the numpad for invoices and accounting. The 75% K2 with red switches used by Sienna here at the studio is a great size for focusing on the design elements, including everything you need to nail that project brief.
If you’re a graphic designer who loves thoughtful tools, a mechanical keyboard might be your next favorite creative companion.
Curious which keyboard is best for you? Drop a comment with your design setup, and I’ll try and help you pick the perfect fit!
Dan
