Mechanical keyboards are not only the go-to for gamers, but they are also becoming extremely popular among typists and programmers. People from all fields that require keyboard work are opting for them. But the question arises: why are mechanical keyboards better?
Mechanical keyboards are better than any other board for numerous reasons. They have better ergonomics, comfort, accuracy, precision, durability, and speed. Furthermore, they have multiple layouts, many different switch choices, dozens of customization options, and an everlasting lifespan. They won't only make you a better gamer but an excellent typist as well.
Every pro gamer uses a mechanical keyboard. You can't compete at the highest level with a membrane board. Similarly, if you want your typing speed to increase and your accuracy to improve, a mechanical keyboard will do the job just fine!
In this article, I'll explain in detail what makes mechanical keyboards better and why exactly people are obsessed with them in the current day and age!
Why is it better to use a mechanical keyboard?
It's better to use a mechanical keyboard because they perform greater than their competitors. If you have typed on both membrane and mechanical keyboards, you would know the difference.
Mechanical keyboards make you more accurate and also help you in gaming. Numerous layouts and key switch options mean you have a huge variety to choose the best board for yourself.
From my personal experience, I became a much better typist when I switched to a mechanical keyboard, replacing my old membrane one. Even while using my laptop, I sometimes attach my mechanical board to it for convenience.
Not only that, it has helped me with gaming too! I enjoy playing games like Call of Duty, Elden Ring, CS: GO, GTA 5, Rocket League, and others.
People who have played these games would realize how important every second is in these games, especially the FPS ones.
Here, mechanical linear switches helped me improve my reaction time and the in-game movement.
So, to conclude, if you're a typist or gamer who is still using a membrane board, I highly suggest you shift to a mechanical keyboard. You'll thank me later!
Why are mechanical keyboards better than normal keyboards?
Mechanical keyboards are better than normal keyboards because of their tactile feedback and the distinct clicking sound of each keypress, which provide an excellent typing experience that cannot be replicated by standard keyboards.
Additionally, mechanical switches have longer lifespans than traditional rubber dome switches, making them more durable and cost-effective in the long run.
Are mechanical keyboards actually better?
Of course, mechanical keyboards are head and shoulders above regular keyboards. But one would ask, "Why is that the case?” So below, I will highlight the main features of a mechanical keyboard that make it a cut above the rest.
1. Durability
Most mechanical keyboards have a long lifespan due to their aluminum build. Moreover, the mechanical switches last for 50–100 million keystrokes, and they are also dust-proof.
The PBT or ABS keycaps are also fine and don't get rusty very easily. All of this combines to make mechanical keyboards your lifelong companions.
2. Multiple Layouts
Mechanical keyboards have several layouts from which you can select the best one for your work. Gamers mostly prefer the 60% or 65% keyboards, while programmers or typists like the TKL or full version.
3. Typing Experience
Mechanical switches save you from RSI and improve your typing speed. Over time, you'll undoubtedly become a better typist and notice that you have stopped making typos or other errors. Even if you just want mechanical keyboards for typing practice, then get them asap!
4. Switch Options
Mainly, mechanical keyboards have three switch options, as follows:
Clicky: They have a loud tactile bump and a slow actuation compared to the other options.
Tactile: They have moderate feedback, and tactile switch mechanical keyboards are good for programming, typing, as well as gaming.
Linear: Linear switches are the standard for gaming as they have no operational feedback and smooth, quick actuation.
There's also a lot of detail regarding the switch color. For this, check out my article: Mechanical Keyboard Color Switches: Does it Matter?
5. Customization
With mechanical keyboards, you can customize RGB lights, key macros, media keys, and other things. You can also replace the switches or keycaps on the board.
6. Responsiveness
Mechanical keyboards respond much quicker and register each and every keystroke. These boards work on anti-ghosting technology, which guarantees the registration of even 6 keys at once.
7. Ergonomics
Mechanical keyboards have great ergonomics that include palm rests, typing angles, and split designs. This helps the user keep their wrist in a comfortable spot and avoid any future injuries.
8. Aesthetics
If you're someone who likes aesthetic and pleasing-to-look-at designs, then you're in for a treat with mechanical keyboards. They have some of the best looks and come in many color schemes.
Why are mechanical keyboards superior?
Mechanical keyboards are definitely superior to membrane, butterfly, or any other kind of keyboard. They are versatile and a good fit for any individual. Mostly, they have a compact size, which makes them easy to carry as well.
There are multiple switch options, as I discussed above. This means you have more than enough choices to choose the key switch that suits you best. But generally, typists mostly prefer clicky or tactile switches, while gamers go for linear or speedy ones.
Mechanical keyboards are also much more durable thanks to their aluminum build.
Moreover, if the key switches are from a good brand, then they will at least have a lifespan of 50 million keystrokes. This turns out to be a seamless typing experience for 8–10 years without any issues.
So yeah, mechanical keyboards last for a long time!
Many switches are also water-resistant and dust-proof which makes them even more sturdy. The customizability option is always there with these boards, where you can adjust RGB lights, set key macros, assign multiple functions to a single key, and much more.
Is it worth it to have a mechanical keyboard?
It's absolutely worth it to have a mechanical keyboard. There are a lot more features that you can only get on these keyboards and nowhere else. By these features, I mean mechanical switches, different layouts, customization options, etc. as highlighted before as well
If your budget allows, go for mechanical keyboards without any second thought.
I have been using them for years and can safely say it was the best choice I made as a typist myself. For typing, I prefer tactile switches like the Cherry MX Browns, while for gaming, I have used the Cherry MX Reds and Speed Silvers.
I recommend getting a premium mechanical keyboard that has a hot-swappable body if you have a budget in the range of $100-$150.
This lets you change the switches without any soldering. So, let's say you don't like the experience of a certain switch, then you can simply replace it with the other set.
This, however, won't happen on a membrane keyboard. In this case, you'd have to replace the entire keyboard or at least the whole switch plate.
Why are mechanical keyboards better for gaming?
Mechanical keyboards are Better For Gaming because of their tactile feedback and durability. Unlike membrane keyboards, which use a rubber dome to provide resistance when keys are pressed, mechanical keyboards use mechanical switches that provide distinct tactile feedback and a "click" sound.
This can help gamers feel more connected to their games and make it easier to perform key combinations quickly and accurately.
However, I’d recommend going for the linear switches if you are not a big fan of tactile bumps. These switches are fast and would increase your speed.
Moving forward, mechanical keyboards are often more durable than membrane keyboards and can withstand more intense use over a longer period of time.
This is important for gamers, who may spend many hours a day typing and pressing keys during gameplay.
And that’s not all; mechanical keyboards are even more customizable. Some mechanical keyboards, for example, allow users to toggle and adjust the sensitivity of the switches.
This can help gamers find the optimal settings for their specific games and play styles and can lead to a more satisfying and effective gaming experience overall.
Is it worth getting a mechanical keyboard for work?
Yes, Mechanical keyboards are designed to provide tactile feedback and a satisfying "click" sound when keys are pressed, which can help you feel more productive and engaged with your work.
If you spend a lot of time typing at your computer, a mechanical keyboard may provide a more comfortable and satisfying typing experience.
Additionally, mechanical keyboards are often more durable and longer-lasting than traditional membrane keyboards, which means you may need to replace them less frequently.
However, mechanical keyboards can also be more expensive than traditional keyboards, so it's important to consider your budget before making a purchase.
In addition, some people find the tactile feedback and clicky sound of mechanical keyboards to be distracting or annoying, so it's important to choose the type of keyboard that works best for you (quiet, looks professional, etc...)
Are mechanical keyboards better for typing speed?
Yes, mechanical keyboards are better for typing speed because they require less force to press the keys, which means you can type more quickly and efficiently. Additionally, the tactile feedback provided by mechanical keyboards can help you type more accurately and confidently, which can also contribute to faster typing speeds.
However, it's important to note that typing speed is largely dependent on individual factors like practice and technique, so a mechanical keyboard may not necessarily make a huge difference in your overall speed if you’re someone who is still in the learning phase. But over time, you’ll eventually get better.
Is it harder to type on a mechanical keyboard?
No, In fact, many people find it easier to type on mechanical keyboards. With each press of a key, you can feel the satisfying click or bump that lets you know your input has been registered. This kind of feedback makes typing much more easier, accurate and efficient.
One reason people may think it's harder to type on a mechanical keyboard is that they tend to be louder than membrane keyboards, particularly if they have clicky switches.
However, the noise level of a keyboard is not necessarily an indicator of how easy it is to type on. In fact, many people find the sound of mechanical keyboards to be satisfying and even help them concentrate while typing.
Lastly, mechanical keyboards often have a responsive tactile bump. This can actually be an advantage for touch typists, as it can help reduce typing errors caused by accidentally hitting keys.
Why are people obsessed with mechanical keyboards?
The reason people are obsessed with mechanical keyboards lies in their unparalleled tactile feedback and durability. Unlike traditional rubber dome keyboards, mechanical switches provide a satisfying click or thud with every keystroke, giving the user a sense of control and precision.
Additionally, the customizability of mechanical keyboards allows users to choose from a wide range of switch types, keycaps, and other accessories, which can make their keyboard feel more personalized and unique.
There's also a sense of community and camaraderie among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, who often share tips, tricks, and advice on forums and social media platforms.
For many people, the obsession with mechanical keyboards is as much about the community and culture surrounding them as it is about the keyboards themselves.
In conclusion, whether or not a mechanical keyboard is worth it for work depends on your individual preferences and needs. While they can provide a more satisfying typing experience and may improve typing speed for some users, they can also be more expensive and take some time to get used to.
Conclusion
I certainly assume that you have now gained ample knowledge to make a choice between membrane and mechanical keyboards. The latter is miles ahead of the competition in terms of every aspect.
Whether you prefer durability, compatibility, ergonomics, customizability, precision, speed, performance, or anything else, a mechanical keyboard will make you experience all of this!
I cover everything about mechanical keyboards and switches on my blog, TheTechSetup. So, for more articles like this, make sure to keep a check!