'If you’re looking for a cheap mechanical keyboard, you can’t do much better': I tested a budget clacker that's impressive for gaming or home working — but its cutbacks are evident

The Mechanical keyboard known as the MechLands Vibe99 is a budget-friendly option for gamers and remote workers. Upon first glance, the retro aesthetic doesn't impress, with its bulky design and excessive use of grey colors in the review unit, giving it a downmarket look. However, the customizable RGB backlighting helps to liven up the appearance.

The keyboard's build quality is decent, featuring a plastic chassis that feels solid, but it doesn't exude a premium feel. Nonetheless, the Double-shot PBT keycaps elevate the experience, even if their opaque legends hinder the full impact of the backlighting.

The Vibe99's compact width is noteworthy, and thanks to its 1800 layout, it offers a generous number of keys, even with the inclusion of a built-in screen. While the TFT display is modest in size and resolution, it provides useful information, such as time, date, and battery level. Additionally, users can upload GIFs through MechLands' software, though this process is time-consuming and the software itself is poorly designed.

Unfortunately, the software lacks sharpness and clarity, making it difficult to navigate and use effectively. The remapping suite is also disappointing, offering a limited selection of assignments and no direct visual indication of the changes made.

On the performance side, the keyboard's generously lubed keys produce a satisfying clicky sound, although they lack the dampening found in higher-end options. The keys rebound quickly, ensuring a smooth typing experience with minimal accidental hits. The natural tilt of the layout and folding feet contribute to enhanced comfort, though a wrist rest would be beneficial.

Despite these drawbacks, the Vibe99's impressive range of features and affordability make it worth considering for those seeking a budget mechanical keyboard.