If you’ve ever wondered why mechanical keyboards are so popular among gamers, programmers, and office professionals, you’re not alone. These keyboards have gained a loyal following for their superior durability, satisfying key feel, and endless customization options. But what exactly is a mechanical keyboard, and what makes it different from a regular one?
For everything you need to know about mechanical keyboards, read on to learn about their mechanism, benefits, and what factors to consider before making a purchase.
What is a mechanical keyboard?
A mechanical keyboard is a type of keyboard that uses individual mechanical switches beneath each key to register keypresses. Unlike traditional membrane keyboards, which use a rubber dome layer to detect keystrokes, mechanical keyboards rely on spring-loaded switches that provide a more precise and tactile typing experience.
A brief history
Mechanical keyboards were once the standard in the 1980s and early 90s. But as manufacturers sought to cut costs, membrane keyboards became more common. In recent years, mechanical keyboards have made a massive comeback, thanks to their durability and superior typing feel.
Over the years, mechanical keyboards have evolved significantly, incorporating features like hot-swappable switches, wireless connectivity, and advanced software customization. Today, you can fine-tune your typing experience with a vast selection of key switches, customizable RGB lighting, and ergonomic designs tailored for extended use. These innovations have made mechanical keyboards more versatile than ever, meeting the needs of a wide range of users.
Mechanical vs. membrane keyboards
The primary difference between mechanical and membrane keyboards lies in their construction and key activation mechanism. Membrane keyboards use a rubber dome beneath the keys, which collapses when pressed to complete an electrical circuit. This design is cost-effective but tends to wear out faster and lacks the distinct tactile feel of a mechanical keyboard.
With individual mechanical switches for each key, mechanical keyboards provide a more satisfying typing experience. These switches consist of a housing, a spring, and a stem that moves when pressed, offering a consistent and precise keystroke. The design also improves durability, as mechanical switches can last tens of millions of keystrokes compared to the shorter lifespan of membrane keys. They also allow for greater customization, as you can swap out switches and keycaps to suit your preferences.
For a more detailed comparison, check out this guide on mechanical vs. membrane keyboards.
Why choose a mechanical keyboard?
Mechanical keyboards offer a wide range of benefits. Whether you’re looking for a more responsive typing experience, ergonomic support, or the ability to personalize your setup, a mechanical keyboard can enhance your experience.
1. Durability
Mechanical keyboards are built to last. Unlike membrane keyboards that degrade over time due to the wear and tear of their rubber domes, mechanical switches maintain their responsiveness and consistency even after tens of millions of keypresses. They’re a great long-term investment for users who need reliable performance, whether for work or gaming.
2. Improved typing experience
Their tactile feedback and faster response time make typing and gaming more enjoyable. The switches are designed to allow for distinct tactile bumps during key presses, providing you with physical feedback that enhances typing accuracy and speed. They are also engineered to have short actuation points, for quick key registration and improved response times.
3. Customization options
From choosing different switch types to swapping out keycaps and adding RGB lighting, mechanical keyboards offer endless customization possibilities to match your personal style. Many models let you remap keys, program macros, and fine-tune actuation settings for a more tailored experience.
4. Ergonomics
The individual mechanical switches allow for consistent actuation force, preventing unnecessary finger fatigue compared to membrane keyboards. Additionally, the option to customize key resistance and layout enables you to tailor your setup for maximum comfort and efficiency. Some mechanical keyboards come with ergonomic features such as split layouts, adjustable feet, and wrist rests, making them more comfortable for prolonged use.
Types of mechanical key switches
The type of switch in a mechanical keyboard significantly impacts the typing experience. Take the time to understand the different switch types, as they affect key feel, sound, and responsiveness. Here’s a breakdown of the three main types:
Linear switches
Linear switches offer a smooth and consistent keypress without any tactile bump or audible click. This makes them ideal for gaming, as they offer rapid and uninterrupted keypresses, enabling faster response times. Many gamers prefer linear switches because they provide minimal resistance and allow for quick, repeated actions. Popular examples include Cherry MX Red and Gateron Yellow, both known for their lightweight feel and smooth actuation.
Tactile switches
Tactile switches feature a noticeable bump when a key is actuated, providing physical feedback to let you know when a keystroke has registered. This feedback is particularly well-suited for typing, as you can type with greater accuracy without bottoming out the keys. Examples include Cherry MX Brown and Zealios V2, which offer a satisfying yet subtle bump with each press.
Clicky switches
Clicky switches provide both a tactile bump and an audible “click” sound when a key is pressed. This distinct sound and feedback are preferred by many typists who enjoy the satisfying actuation feel that helps reinforce each keypress. However, clicky switches can be quite loud, which may not be ideal for shared workspaces or quiet environments. Popular clicky switches include Cherry MX Blue and Kailh Box White, both of which deliver a crisp, audible click with every press.
What to look for when purchasing a mechanical keyboard
With a wide variety of mechanical keyboards available, selecting the right one allows you to find the perfect fit for your needs and preferences. Whether you’re a gamer, typist, or general user, understanding key features like switch type, build quality, and ergonomics will help you make an informed decision.
- Switch type: Choosing the right switch depends on your needs. Linear switches are ideal for gaming due to their smooth actuation, tactile switches offer a balance between feedback and comfort for general use, and clicky switches provide audible and tactile reinforcement preferred by many typists.
- Build quality: A high-quality mechanical keyboard should have a sturdy frame, preferably aluminum, for durability. Keycaps made of PBT plastic last longer and resist wear better than ABS keycaps.
- Form factor: Mechanical keyboards come in different sizes. Full-size keyboards include a number pad, while tenkeyless (TKL) models remove the number pad for a more compact design. On the other hand, 60% or 75% keyboards offer ultra-compact layouts so they’re easy to carry around. In terms of form factor, consider the amount of desk space that you have and the key layout that you need.
- Key rollover and anti-ghosting: Gamers and fast typists should look for N-key rollover (NKRO), which ensures multiple keypresses register accurately, preventing missed inputs.
- Connectivity: Wired keyboards provide reliable connections with no latency, while wireless models offer flexibility, though some may have slight input delay.
- RGB lighting: Customizable RGB lighting allows you to personalize your setup with various colours and effects.
- Price & budget: Mechanical keyboards range from $50 to $400+, with premium models offering better build quality, switches, and features.
- Ergonomics: For extended typing sessions, consider keyboards with adjustable feet, wrist rests, or split designs for added comfort.
Common mechanical keyboard features
Mechanical keyboards nowadays offer a range of features to enhance overall user experience. From programmable keys to noise control, these features allow you to fine-tune your keyboards to match your specific needs.
Key customization
Many mechanical keyboards let you remap keys, program macros, and adjust function layers. Ideal for both gaming and productivity, this feature lets you create shortcuts for frequently used commands, improving workflow efficiency and reducing repetitive strain.
Hot-swappable switches
Some mechanical keyboards feature hot-swappable sockets, so it’s easy to replace switches without soldering. This makes it easy to experiment with different switch types, customize the typing feel, or replace worn-out switches without needing specialized tools.
Noise levels
The noise level of a mechanical keyboard depends on the switch type. Clicky switches produce loud, satisfying clicks, perfect for tactile feedback but potentially disruptive in shared spaces. Tactile switches offer a quiet bump, and linear switches are the quietest, a good choice for noise-sensitive environments.
Software and macros
Many mechanical keyboards come with proprietary software that enables you to customize key functions, program macros, and control RGB lighting effects. Advanced software options allow for on-the-fly adjustments, multiple profiles, and cloud storage for settings across different devices.
Is a mechanical keyboard right for you?
Investing in a mechanical keyboard means investing in durability, comfort, and performance. Many of these keyboards offer a unique typing feel, a range of customization options, and superior longevity compared to traditional membrane models. However, many mechanical keyboards can be louder.
Whether you’re a gamer, a dedicated typist, or a professional looking for an enhanced computing experience, the right keyboard can make all the difference. When choosing a mechanical keyboard, consider factors like switch type, build quality, and ergonomics to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Ready to upgrade your typing experience? Explore a wide selection of mechanical keyboards at Best Buy Canada.
This article was drafted using AI technology and then reviewed, fact-checked, and revised by a member of our editorial team.
