Mechanical keyboards have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years among technology enthusiasts. Offering a superior typing experience compared to traditional membrane keyboards, mechanical keyboards provide tactile and audible feedback that many users prefer. Let's take a deeper look into the history and features of mechanical keyboards.
A Brief History
Mechanical keyboards have been used since the late 19th century when the earliest typewriters were invented. These original typewriters employed individual mechanical switches beneath each key that would actuate a linkage to strike the corresponding character on the page. As technology advanced in the mid-20th century, membrane and scissor-switch keyboards replaced mechanical keyboards in computers and terminals due to their lower manufacturing costs.
However, die-hard computer users still favored the superior tactility of mechanical keyboards. Small niche manufacturers kept producing mechanical keyboards throughout the 1990s and 2000s for this crowd. The mid-2010s saw a major revival in mechanical keyboards popularity fueled by technology YouTube reviewers and enthusiasts online sharing their love for mechanical keyboards. Major peripheral makers like Logitech, Razer, and Corsair entered the market driving greater availability and variety of mechanical keyboards worldwide.
Key Features of Mechanical Keyboards
The defining feature of a Mechanical Keyboards is the individual mechanical switch located beneath each key. Common switch types include Cherry MX Blues (clicky), Browns (tactile), and Reds (linear). Each type provides a unique feel and sound. Mechanical switches are more durable than traditional membrane keyboards and are rated for up to 50 million keystrokes.
Other common features of modern mechanical keyboards include fully programmable keys, adjustable lighting effects, dedicated media controls, removable wrist rests, braided fiber USB cables, and aluminum or stainless steel frames for extra durability. Top-end models may offer switches with gold contacts, extra thick PBT keycaps, and custom artisan keycaps.
Enthusiasts enjoy experimenting with different switches, assembling custom keyboards, and modifying their keyboards with new switches, cables, and keycaps. An entire aftermarket scene has emerged for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to explore.
Benefits for Typing
The tactile or audible feedback provided by mechanical switches makes each keypress feel solid and satisfying. This enhances accuracy and speed compared to mushy membrane keyboards. The varying actuation points of different switches influence the feel and weight required to depress each key.
Linear switches like Cherry MX Reds have a light, smooth action ideal for gaming. Tactile switches like Browns provide clear bump feedback for typing. Clicky switches such as Blues add an audible click for each keypress that some users find motivating. Mechanical switches deliver a consistent typing feel throughout their lifespan.
Benefits for Gaming
The responsive, satisfying keypresses of mechanical switches translate well to gaming. Tactile and linear switches activate near the top of their travel for fast double taps. Programmable macro keys can trigger sequences of actions with one press. RGB lighting effects can match in-game action or mood lighting. Anti-ghosting and full rollover prevent keys from getting dropped even when several are pressed simultaneously. Mechanical keyboards prove excellent for competitive esports gaming.
Drawbacks Compared to Membrane Keyboards
While mechanical keyboards have many advantages, there are a few potential downsides compared to more basic membrane keyboards:
- Higher Cost - Expect to pay $80-150 or more for a reliable mechanical keyboard versus $20-50 for basic membranes. Custom-built mechanical boards can cost $200+.
- Louder Typing - Especially clicky switches like Blues can bother co-workers or family members in adjacent rooms. O-rings can dampen the sound somewhat.
- Heavier - Mechanical keyboards tend to weigh one to two pounds compared to lighter membranes, which may tire hands over long sessions.
- Stabilizer Rattle - Some cheaper keyboards may have loose stabilizers causing an irritating rattle on wide keys. Higher end models avoid this issue.
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