Mechanical keyboards are becoming more popular every day, and so you may be asking yourself, why do people like mechanical keyboards more? If you are, then read on because this article is for you!
People like mechanical keyboards more because they are better to type on, they can improve your typing speed, they sound fantastic and they’re more durable than membrane keyboards.
In this article, I explore why are mechanical keyboards so popular, why mechanical keyboards are so much better, what you should consider when buying a mechanical keyboard, and much more.
What Is A Mechanical Keyboard?
A mechanical keyboard is a style of keyboard that uses a spring-activated mechanical switch under each key rather than a rubber membrane. Depending on your choice of switch, a mechanical keyboard can offer you a typing experience that’s tailored specifically to your typing style.
A mechanical keyboard switch is a simple component. It has a stem that attaches to the keycap and is supported by a spring. When you press down on the keycap, it forces the stem to go down, allowing an electrical connection to happen.
Lastly, a mechanical keyboard has a very different feel than a membrane keyboard. When pressed, you feel and hear a distinctive click. However, there are two switch types, linear that needs to be pressed down all the way, while tactile switches activate about halfway down, which means they activate more quickly, meaning less typing effort is required.
Why Do Some People Prefer To Use Mechanical Keyboards?
There are many reasons people prefer to use mechanical keyboards. Besides their look, feel, sound, and feedback, many users agree that using a mechanical keyboard is easier and is better for typing since it can improve your typing speed and accuracy.
Another point to note when it comes to why some people prefer to use mechanical keyboards is that they are easier to clean and maintain. Because a mechanical keyboard’s keycaps are easily removed by using a keycap pulling tool, gaining access for cleaning is a breeze.
One final point to consider. Since there are many customization options available like switches and keycaps, for example. On the flip side, it also means that there is a high likelihood that if a mechanical keyboard part breaks, replacing it should be quick and relatively easy, thanks to the ability to customize.
Editor’s Mechanical Keyboard Choice
SteelSeries Apex Pro
Why you’ll love it. The SteelSeries Apex Pro mechanical keyboard enables you to set the keystroke sensitivity. This allows you to select a keystroke setting that suits your typing or gaming style perfectly. The build quality and durability are also top features on this mechanical keyboard, finally let’s not forget how cool it looks.
Why Mechanical Keyboards Are So Much Better?
Mechanical keyboards are so much better because they feel and sound better than membrane keyboards. Mechanical keyboards are built to last and offer superior build quality, durability, and reliability over other keyboard types.
Users can expect a more tactile and enjoyable experience with positive confirmation when typing on a mechanical keyboard versus a membrane or rubber-style keyboard. This experience is largely down to the mechanical keyboard’s switch and its characteristics.
Loved by programmers, gamers, and typists alike, mechanical keyboards offer lots of customizable features to fit your typing needs. And since a mechanical keyboard can be easily maintained and cleaned, they tend to last much longer too.
Buying A Mechanical Keyboard? 7 Points You Should Consider
1. Mechanical Switches Matter:
Mechanical switches are one of the most important components of a mechanical keyboard. They define the feel, the sound, and how responsive a mechanical keyboard is. The most popular mechanical switches are from Cherry MX. Cherry MX switches are considered to be some of the best on the market when it comes to linear and tactile characteristics.
Best Keyboard With Cherry MX Switches
Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT
Why you’ll love it. The Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT mechanical keyboard comes with a great build quality, and allows you to select from various Cherry MX switch types. The durable PBT double-shot keycaps will give you a positive typing experience, reduce wear, fading, and shine, keeping your mechanical keyboard looking at its best at all times.
2. Clicky Noise Rocks:
For some mechanical keyboard users, it’s all about the clicky noise when they type. However, some users prefer a less noisy keyboard when they type, especially if they’re in an office setting for example. Either way, before buying a mechanical keyboard, spend a little time getting familiar with your preferred clicky noise level. The Cherry MX website is a great resource to hear the different switch noise levels.
3. What Is Key Rollover Anyway:
For those not familiar with the term key rollover, let me break it down for you. Key rollover determines how many keys can be pressed and registered on the computer at any one time. N-key rollover (NKRO) is a term often used to describe a no limit to the number of keys that can be pressed simultaneously. NKRO is often sold as a premium feature on mechanical keyboards.
4. Keyboards Come In Many Sizes:
An important factor to consider when buying a mechanical keyboard is keyboard size. There are a few different sizes to choose from, below I’ve listed your choices. Size is a personal choice. If you enjoy having a number pad on your keyboard, you’ll want to consider a full-sized keyboard. If on the other hand, you’re a gamer, you’ll maybe want a mini keyboard, and for everyone else, something in between might be a better fit.
| Size: | Key Count: |
|---|---|
| Full | 104 |
| TKL | 87 |
| 75% | 80/84 |
| Mini | 61 |
5. Wired Versus Wireless:
This decision is really simple, you have two options, either wired or wireless. Wired will be either a USB or USB-C connection from the keyboard to the computer. Wireless will be a Bluetooth connection. Something additional to consider for wireless is battery length.
6. RGB Is Just Cool:
Most higher-end mechanical keyboards will come with an RGB option that is typically programmable in terms of colors and sequence. For some, this may not be of interest, but for gamers, it’s likely to be an important feature. When it comes down to it, RGB is a personal choice, but having some type of lighting is practical if you’re working in a dark space.
7. Not All Keycaps Are Made Equal:
As with RGB, keycaps can add personality and allow you to design a keyboard that reflects your style. There are various keycap materials on the market with PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) being the most popular choice amongst mechanical keyboard users due to their durability. On the lower-end keyboards, ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) will be the material of choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hopefully, I have answered all of your questions related to, why do people like mechanical keyboards more. However, you may still have other questions surrounding mechanical keyboards. If you do, below I have answered some common frequently asked questions, or check out one of my other articles like ridiculously expensive mechanical keyboards.
Why do people hate on membrane keyboards?
Is mechanical keyboard good for gaming?
Do mechanical keyboards make you type faster?
Final Thoughts On Why Do People Like Mechanical Keyboards More
So, in conclusion, why do people like mechanical keyboards more. There are many reasons, but the main reason is that mechanical keyboard switches feel much nicer to type on for most people. Other popular reasons include they sound great, they’re more durable, they’re customizable, and they’re easy to clean and maintain.