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Keyboard Twitter will sell you a $400 board before you know if you like the sound. Start with layout and switch type. Everything else is seasoning.
Layout first
If you need F-keys and arrows every minute, do not buy a 40% to look interesting. Tenkeyless is the usual sweet spot. Split ergonomic boards are a project, not a first keyboard.
Switches second
Linear = smooth. Tactile = a bump. Clicky = you will make enemies. Try a switch tester if you can. Lubing and films are optional year-two hobbies.
Firmware and QMK
If you want to remap Caps to Escape, QMK/VIA support is the spec that matters. A pretty board with locked firmware is a toy.
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