Are you in the market for a new keyboard? You may have come across two popular types, mechanical and membrane keyboards. But what's the difference between the two? Which one is better? Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of each type.
Mechanical Keyboards
Mechanical keyboards are the older of the two types and are often thought of as the superior option. Instead of a single rubber dome, mechanical keyboards have individual switches under each key. This design makes them more responsive and tactile, allowing for a faster typing speed and more precise keystrokes.
Pros:
- More durable
- Longer lifespan
- Better tactile feedback
Cons:
- More expensive
- Louder noise when typing
- Heavier
Types of Mechanical Switches
There are different types of mechanical switches, each with a unique feel and sound. Here's a quick rundown:
- Cherry MX: The most popular and widely used switch, and comes in various colors with different levels of force and tactile bump.
- Gateron: Similar to Cherry MX, but smoother and more cost-effective.
- Kailh: A cheaper alternative, but with a more noticeable tactile bump.
Membrane Keyboards
Membrane keyboards are a newer type of keyboard and utilize a thin membrane with pressure pads to register key presses. While they're not as responsive or tactile as mechanical keyboards, they're still widely used because of their lower cost.
Pros:
- More affordable
- Quieter typing noise
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Less durable
- Shorter lifespan
- Less tactile feedback
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your preferences and budget. If you prioritize a better typing experience and don't mind spending more money, a mechanical keyboard may be the best choice for you. But if you're on a budget or don't mind sacrificing some tactile feedback, a membrane keyboard could be a better fit.
Recommendations
Here are some examples of keyboards for each type:
- Mechanical Keyboard: Das Keyboard Prime 13, Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT, Logitech G915
- Membrane Keyboard: Logitech K120, Dell KM636, HP Pavilion Wireless Keyboard 600
And that's our rundown of mechanical vs membrane keyboards. Happy typing!
References
- W, Brent Hale. "Mechanical Keyboard Guide". Brent Hale, www.brentknows.com/posts/mechanical-keyboard-guide.
- Bajpai, Prakhar. "Mechanical Vs Membrane Keyboards: Which Is Better For Gaming?" Screenrant, 11 Sep 2021, screenrant.com/mechanical-vs-membrane-keyboards-gaming-better-choose/.