Keychron would be my choice because they have open source QMK/ZMK firmware, a decent web-based configuration tool (Keychron Launcher) that is built around an open protocol (VIA) with their own open extensions. The build quality is good and they are customizable (hot swappable switches, standard layout so keycaps are available). They have a bunch of models so you can find some cheaper options and some more expensive premium options. I am quite fond of the Q series which have a solid aluminum body but these are the expensive ones, the K series tend to still be great keyboards but with a more affordable plastic or plastic/aluminum hybrid design.

As the OpenRGB creator, if you care about RGB, especially if you want to sync with other devices, stay away from the no-name boards with closed source firmware. Might have good build quality, but their firmware situation is awful and you likely won’t be able to control it from anything other than the official app, RGB sync is out the door on many of them as they don’t have an RGB streaming mode.

If you want plug and play: Keychron, get one from Microcenter, they also have other keyboards and I found some Keychrons at best buy.

If you want something unique: NovelKeys sells parts and prebuilts and so does KBDFans.

Keychron

Put it on the top rack of your dishwasher and run a cycle with no soap. Then leave the keyboard upside down on a towel for 24 hours. I did that after my friend spilled a milkshake on my keyboard. Came out good as new.

There’s a company called “Red Dragon” that has a very solid build generic mechanical keyboard.

I paid $50 for one, and it’s the same quality as my $150 ASUS, the only reason it’s not my daily driver is that it’s a tenkeyless while the ASUS has a number pad.

I wouldn’t call it a gaming keyboard, but the build quality is stellar and it doesn’t cost a fortune. I’ve been using a Leopold keyboard at work for the past few months and it’s a delight to use. Cherry MX Red switches.

I grew up using the IBM Model M so I’m fussy about my keyboard quality.

I’d steer clear of heavily marketed “gaming” keyboards even from name brands. Their quality is often shit.

Your keyboard probably still works if you unplug it and wash it (including some soaking to get whatever Pepsi residue inside the switches out), but it’ll take a few days to dry back out.

But for new keyboards, I just echo that you want hot swappable switches, desoldering switches sucks so hard. My keyboard is 12+ years old, so it probably isn’t sold anymore

What is a “huge amount”? There are tons of options at the $129-200 price point. What options are you looking for, size, layout, RGB, media keys?

I’m currently rocking Epomakers. Heavy aluminum. When the big one drops, cockroaches will be typing on these.