If you are looking for a new keyboard, you might have heard of mechanical keyboards. These are keyboards that use individual switches under each key, instead of a rubber membrane or a scissor mechanism.
Mechanical keyboards are often praised for their durability, comfort, precision, and customization. But they also have some drawbacks, such as higher cost, louder noise, and heavier weight.
In this blog post, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of mechanical keyboards, and help you decide if they are right for you.
What Are the Benefits of Mechanical Keyboards?
Mechanical keyboards have many advantages over other types of keyboards.
Here are some of the main ones:
Longer Lifespan
Mechanical keyboards have a significantly longer life span than membrane or scissor keyboards.
Most mechanical keyboards are rated for 50 million keystrokes or more, compared to the 5 million keystrokes that standard keyboards are typically rated for.
This means that mechanical keyboards can last for years without wearing out or losing their responsiveness.
More Comfortable
Because each key has a distinctive switch underneath it, a mechanical keyboard typically feels much more comfortable to type on as you receive a better response from your fingers while you use it.
You can also choose from different types of switches that suit your preference, such as linear, tactile, or clicky switches.
Linear switches have a smooth feel and require less force to press each key.
Tactile switches have a bump that lets you know when the key is registered.
Clicky switches have both a bump and a loud click sound that gives you audible feedback.
More Precise
Because mechanical keyboards make typing more accessible, they are also more accurate, making users less likely to make mistakes or hit the wrong key.
This can make a huge difference in productivity levels for programmers, writers, gamers, and anyone who types a lot.
Mechanical keyboards also have better anti-ghosting and n-key rollover features, which means that they can register multiple key presses at once without missing any inputs.
More Customizable
Mechanical keyboards are often more customizable than other keyboards. You can change the keycaps, the switches, the backlighting, and even the layout of your keyboard to suit your needs and preferences.
You can also use software to program macros, shortcuts, and other functions to your keys. Mechanical keyboards come in various sizes and shapes, from full-sized to compact to ergonomic.
More Fun
Mechanical keyboards can be seen as more than just tools for typing; they can also be hobbies for many enthusiasts who enjoy building, modifying, and collecting them.
You can express your personality and taste with different colors, materials, shapes, and themes for your keyboard.
You can also learn about the different types of switches and how they work. You can also experiment with different combinations of switches and keycaps to achieve your desired feel and sound.
More Satisfying
Mechanical keyboards can provide a more satisfying typing experience than other keyboards because of their tactile feedback and sound profile.
You can feel and hear each keystroke clearly, which can make typing more enjoyable and rewarding.
Some people even compare typing on a mechanical keyboard to playing a musical instrument.
What Are the Drawbacks of Mechanical Keyboards?
Mechanical keyboards are not perfect, though. They also have some disadvantages that you should consider before buying one.
Here are some of the main ones:
Higher Cost
Mechanical keyboards are generally more expensive than other keyboards.
A good quality mechanical keyboard can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the brand, the features, and the quality.
You might also need to spend extra money on accessories like keycaps, switches, cables, or wrist rests.
Louder Noise
Mechanical keyboards are usually louder than other keyboards because of how the switches work.
This can be annoying for some people or cause problems in certain environments like offices or libraries.
Some switches are quieter than others, such as silent or dampened switches, but they still make some noise.
You can also use o-rings or foam pads to reduce the noise level of your keyboard.
Heavier Weight
Mechanical keyboards are heavier than other keyboards because of their metal plates and switches.
This can make them more durable and stable on your desk but also harder to carry around or travel with.
Some mechanical keyboards are lighter than others, such as low-profile or wireless ones, but they still weigh more than membrane or scissor keyboards.
Steep Learning Curve
Mechanical keyboards can take some time to get used to if you are not familiar with them.
You might need to adjust your words per minute typing speed, force, and posture to match the switch type and layout of your keyboard.
You might also need to learn about the different terms and concepts related to mechanical keyboards such as switch types, keycap materials, and legends.
Compatibility Issues
Mechanical keyboards might not work well with some devices or software that are not designed for them.
For example, some wireless mechanical keyboards might have latency or battery issues when connected to certain devices.
Some mechanical keyboards might not support certain functions or shortcuts that are specific to certain operating systems or applications.
Aspects of Mechanical Keyboards That Go Beyond Durability and Customization
Mechanical keyboards are not just tools for typing; they are also hobbies for many enthusiasts who enjoy building, modifying, and collecting them.
There are many perspectives and aspects of mechanical keyboards that go beyond their practical functions. Here are some of them:
The Aesthetic Aspect
Mechanical keyboards can be seen as works of art that reflect the personality and taste of their owners.
Some people like to customize their keyboards with different colors, materials, shapes, and themes.
Meanwhile, some people like to showcase their keyboards with fancy lighting effects or display cases.
Some people like to collect rare or vintage keyboards that have historical or sentimental value.
The Technical Aspect
Mechanical keyboards can be seen as engineering marvels that demonstrate the complexity and diversity of switch technology.
Some people like to learn about the different types of switches and how they work.
Meanwhile, some people like to experiment with different combinations of switches and keycaps to achieve their desired feel and sound.
Some people like to design and create their own switches or circuit boards for their unique needs.
The Social Aspect
Mechanical keyboards can be seen as ways of connecting with other like-minded people who share the same passion and interest.
Some people like to join online communities where they can discuss, share, trade, or buy mechanical keyboards and related products.
Meanwhile, some people like to attend offline events where they can meet other enthusiasts face-to-face and try out different keyboards in person.
Conclusion
Mechanical keyboards are great for typing because they offer many benefits such as longer lifespan, more comfort, more precision, more customization, more fun, and more satisfying.
However, they also have some drawbacks such as higher cost, louder noise, heavier weight, steep learning curve, and compatibility issues.
Whether you should get a mechanical keyboard depends on your personal preference, budget, and use case.
If you want a keyboard that lasts long, feels good, performs well, and looks cool then a mechanical keyboard might be worth it for you.
But if you want a keyboard that is cheap quiet, and light-weighted then a mechanical keyboard might not be the best choice for you.
If you have any questions or comments about this topic please let us know in the comment section below.
