Understanding Mechanical Keyboards: Advantages, Disadvantages, and Benefits

In the rapidly developing digital technology era, keyboards are one of the most widely used devices in various activities, both at work and at home. One type of keyboard that is increasingly popular is the mechanical keyboard. In this article, we will learn more about what a mechanical keyboard is, its advantages and disadvantages, and the benefits that can be obtained from using it.

What is a Mechanical Keyboard?

Membrane Keyboard (left) and Mechanical Keyboard (right), source: www.freepik.com

A mechanical keyboard is a type of keyboard that uses mechanical switches instead of rubber membranes found in conventional keyboards. These mechanical switches have a more complex physical construction and provide better responsiveness compared to membrane keyboards.

Each key on a mechanical keyboard has an individual mechanical switch that provides tactile feedback and a distinctive click sound when pressed.

Advantages of Mechanical Keyboards

1. Responsive and Accurate

One of the main advantages of mechanical keyboards is their high responsiveness. The mechanical switches on each key provide clear and tactile feedback when pressed, allowing users to feel precisely whether the key has been actuated or not.

This makes mechanical keyboards very suitable for applications that require precision and speed, such as gaming and typing.

2. High Durability

Mechanical keyboards generally have higher durability than membrane keyboards. Mechanical switches are designed to be long-lasting and capable of withstanding intensive use for many years.

Some types of mechanical switches can even last up to tens of millions of keystrokes. With this high durability, mechanical keyboards are a good choice for users who want a durable and long-lasting keyboard.

3. Customization and Diverse Switch Options

Another advantage of mechanical keyboards is their flexibility in customization and diverse switch options. Each type of mechanical switch has different characteristics, such as the required pressure, sound, and feedback.

Users can choose the type of mechanical switch that suits their preferences, from those that produce a loud click sound to those that are silent. In addition, some mechanical keyboards also come with additional features, such as customizable backlighting and programmable macro keys as needed.

4. Amazing Typing Feel

One of the advantages that mechanical keyboard users may feel is a different typing sensation compared to regular keyboards. The sound produced when fingers press mechanical keys feels amazing. Some users even mod their keyboards to produce even better sounds.

Disadvantages of Mechanical Keyboards

1. Higher Price

One of the main disadvantages of mechanical keyboards is their tendency to be more expensive than membrane keyboards. This is due to the complex physical construction and the quality of the mechanical switches used. Users with limited budgets may need to reconsider before buying a mechanical keyboard.

Although mechanical keyboard prices are now starting to compete with membrane keyboards, the quality offered is usually not as good.

2. Annoying Click Sound

Although the click sound produced by mechanical switches can be an advantage for some people, for others, the sound can be annoying, especially in a quiet work environment or when used near other people.

Some quieter types of mechanical switches have been developed to address this issue, but the click sound may still be audible.

3. Larger Size and Weight

Mechanical keyboards generally have a larger size and weight compared to membrane keyboards. This can make them less portable and require more space on the desk. If mobility and workspace are limited, a mechanical keyboard may not be an ideal choice.

Benefits of Mechanical Keyboards

1. Increases Typing Speed and Accuracy

When using a mechanical keyboard, users will feel a significant difference in typing speed and accuracy. The high responsiveness and tactile feedback from each key allow users to type faster and more accurately.

For writers, programmers, or anyone who uses a keyboard intensively, a mechanical keyboard can increase productivity and comfort while working.

2. Better Gaming Experience

For gamers, mechanical keyboards provide a better gaming experience. The fast response and tactile feedback from each key allow players to feel every action taken more clearly and responsively.

In addition, some mechanical keyboards are equipped with anti-ghosting features that allow the use of multiple keys simultaneously without conflicts.

3. Maintains Health and Reduces Fatigue

Using a mechanical keyboard can also help maintain health and reduce user fatigue. Responsive mechanical switches allow users to press keys with less pressure, reducing stress on finger joints and muscles.

In addition, some types of mechanical switches are also ergonomically designed, with more comfortable key placement for users. Thus, mechanical keyboards can help reduce the risk of injury and fatigue for users who frequently use keyboards for long periods.

Conclusion

A mechanical keyboard is a type of keyboard that uses mechanical switches to provide better responsiveness and tactile feedback when pressed. The advantages of mechanical keyboards include being responsive and accurate, high durability, and diverse customization and switch options. The benefits of using a mechanical keyboard include increased typing speed and accuracy, a better gaming experience, and maintaining health and reducing fatigue.

With the combination of advantages and benefits, mechanical keyboards are a popular choice for users who want a better typing and gaming experience. However, you need to reconsider if your budget is limited. This is because mechanical keyboards have a higher price than membrane keyboards.