Transform Your Typing Experience: Essential Keyboard Accessories Worth Your Money
By Ethan Brooks•Published on May 09, 2025
Accessories
Customization
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You've invested in a quality mechanical keyboard, but that's just the beginning of your typing journey. The right accessories can transform a good keyboard into an exceptional one, improving everything from comfort to functionality.
As someone who spends countless hours typing, I've tested dozens of keyboard add-ons to separate the genuinely useful from the merely decorative. Here's my practical guide to the accessories that will meaningfully enhance your setup.
Wrist rests are more than just comfortable—they're essential for long-term typing health. They help maintain proper wrist alignment, reducing the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
What to look for in a quality wrist rest:
If you're using a mechanical keyboard with higher-profile switches like Cherry MX Blues or Browns, a slightly taller wrist rest becomes even more important.
Custom cables serve dual purposes: they reduce desk clutter while expressing your personal style. The coiled aesthetic has become particularly popular, but there are practical benefits too:
A quality custom cable typically costs $30-60, making it a relatively affordable upgrade that combines function with personalization.
If you're ready to take your mechanical keyboard customization to the next level, these tools are essential:
The difference between stock and properly lubed switches is dramatic—smoother keystrokes, reduced spring ping, and a more satisfying sound profile. This is particularly true for linear switches, where any friction becomes immediately noticeable.
For a detailed walkthrough of the lubing process, check out our guide to switch cleaning and lubing.
A proper keycap puller costs less than $5 but can prevent significant damage to your expensive keycap sets. Wire pullers are strongly preferred over plastic ring-style pullers, which can cause scratches and cracks.
Using the right technique is equally important:
Desk mats provide multiple benefits that directly enhance your keyboard experience:
Look for desk mats with stitched edges for durability and rubber backing to prevent slipping. Thickness between 3-5mm offers the best balance of cushioning and stability.
With hundreds of mechanical switches available today, finding your perfect match can be expensive if you're buying full keyboards or switch packs to test.
A switch tester lets you:
For a deeper understanding of different switch characteristics, our guide to mechanical switch types provides comprehensive comparisons.
If you transport your keyboard regularly or own multiple boards, a dedicated carrying case is worth considering:
Quality cases typically include foam inserts that can be customized to fit your specific keyboard size and profile.
These tiny modifications can significantly alter your typing experience:
O-rings:
Switch films:
These modifications are ideal for those who want to fine-tune their existing setup without investing in entirely new switches. They're also perfect for maintaining your mechanical keyboard in top condition.
While primarily aesthetic, a well-placed artisan keycap can serve practical purposes too:
The artisan keycap market ranges from affordable mass-produced options to handcrafted limited editions costing hundreds of dollars. For most users, starting with one or two strategically placed artisans offers the best value.
Not all accessories deliver equal value. If you're on a budget, here's how I recommend prioritizing:
The beauty of keyboard accessories is that you can add them gradually, spreading the cost while continuously improving
