The importance of finding the ideal keyboard, which is one that complements workflow and boosts productivity, is something that is well understood by professionals who spend a significant amount of time typing. Throughout the course of this article, we will investigate three of the most common types of keyboards: Mechanical vs Membrane and scissor frame.
By gaining an understanding of the distinctions between these various types of keyboards, you will be able to make well-informed decisions that are in accordance with both your professional needs and your personal preferences. In light of this, let’s get down to business and examine the characteristics that set mechanical, membrane, and scissor frame keyboards apart from one another.
Mechanical vs Membrane keyboard: Price
Most of the time, mechanical keyboards cost more than membrane keyboards. Part of the price is the individual mechanical switches, which are often made by well-known brands like Cherry MX or Razer.
Most of the time, membrane keyboards are less expensive. Because they are simpler to build and have a membrane layer under the keys, these keyboards can be made for less money. Mechanical keyboards from well-known brands that have features like programmable keys, RGB lighting that can be changed, and high-quality materials tend to be more expensive.
Mechanical vs Membrane keyboard: Comparison table
A mechanical keyboard is a good choice if you play games or type a lot. A membrane keyboard is a good choice if you want to save money or have a quieter keyboard.
| Feature | Mechanical Keyboard | Membrane Keyboard |
|---|---|---|
| Switch Mechanism | Individual mechanical switches under each key | Rubber dome or silicone membrane under multiple keys |
| Tactile Feedback | Pronounced tactile bump and audible click (varies by switch type) | Soft, mushy feeling with little feedback |
| Durability | Highly durable, can last for millions of keystrokes | Less durable, may wear out after 10-15 million keystrokes |
| Customization | Wide variety of switch types, keycaps, and other options | Limited customization options |
| Price | Generally more expensive than membrane keyboards | Generally less expensive than mechanical keyboards |
| Noise Level | Can be loud, especially with clicky switches | Relatively quiet |
| Check Price | Check Price |
Mechanical vs Membrane keyboard: Switch Mechanism
The tactile and audible feedback that membrane keyboards provide is less pronounced than that of other types of keyboards because they use a pressure pad beneath the keys that are covered by a membrane layer. Whenever the pressure pad is compressed, the keys register input, which ultimately results in the completion of the circuit through the membrane. Mechanical keyboards, on the other hand, are distinguished by the presence of each key having its own individual mechanical switch.
These keyboards are characterised by a complex structure that includes a plastic stem, two metal contacts, and a spring. This design ensures a distinct tactile and audible response, which enhances the typing experience for users who prefer a higher level of satisfaction and responsiveness in their interactions with the keyboard.
Mechanical vs Membrane keyboard: Durability
When compared to membrane keyboards, mechanical keyboards are constructed using technology that is superior and more long-lasting. This is the first and most fundamental aspect that you need to take into consideration. Because of the nature of this technology, mechanical keyboards have a longer lifespan than membrane keyboards in general, despite the fact that they contain a greater number of moving parts, particularly switches.
Even in the event that a specific key were to become damaged, if you had switches that could be replaced, you would not be required to throw away the entire keyboard; all you would need to do is replace the switch. It is possible to remove the keycaps from virtually every mechanical keyboard, which makes them much simpler to clean and, as a result, allows them to last for a longer period of time.
Mechanical vs Membrane keyboard: Typing Experience
People like mechanical keyboards because they give you tactile feedback, which means that when you press a key, you can feel something happen physically. This is because of the clear actuation point and the reset key. Each type of mechanical switch has its own special features that users can choose from. Some switches feel soft and linear, while others have a bump you can feel or a click you can hear. With this customization, users can make typing feel exactly the way they want it to.
A lot of people say that mechanical keyboards help them type faster and more accurately. The different actuation points and tactile feedback can help make typing feel more responsive. When compared to mechanical keyboards, membrane keyboards usually give less tactile feedback. Most of the time, the keypress is softer and needs less force to work.
Mechanical vs Membrane keyboard: Gaming
A lot of gamers like using mechanical keyboards with their setups. Hearing or feeling clicks or keypresses and having tactile feedback makes it easier for users to tell when a key has been pressed. A more responsive gaming experience may be improved by the longer key travel distance and clear actuation points.
Also, mechanical keyboards often have anti-ghosting and N-key rollover features that let you press more than one key at the same time without interfering with the signal. Even though membrane keyboards don’t have as many customizable options or tactile feedback as mechanical keyboards, they are still better for gaming in some ways. Most membrane keyboards are quieter, which can be helpful in places where noise is an issue, like shared living spaces.
Mechanical vs Membrane keyboard: Noise Level
One big difference between mechanical and membrane keyboards is how loud they are when they’re being used. Mechanical keyboards are known for having clicks that you can hear and feedback that you can feel. These features can make typing louder. This is especially true for mechanical switches that feel like they click or can be touched.
Some users like the satisfying sound because it lets them know when they’ve pressed a key, but it can be annoying in quiet or shared spaces. On the other hand, membrane keyboards tend to be quieter because they don’t have the separate mechanical switches that other keyboards do.
Mechanical Pros
- Variety of switch types to choose from
- Superior typing experience
- Durable and long-lasting
Mechanical Cons
- Complexity
- Louder typing sound
Membrane keyboard Pros
- Easy to clean
- Quiet operation
- Affordability
Membrane keyboard Cons
- Limited tactile feedback
- Shorter lifespan
Which should you choose?
You should choose between membrane and mechanical keyboards based on what you need from it. A mechanical board is best if you type a lot or want something great for gaming. Mechanical keyboards have great feedback, and if you can handle the noise and higher price, you’ll have a much better time typing and/or gaming because all the keys can be rolled over. We love the SteelSeries Apex Pro mechanical keyboard because it looks great, works great for typing and gaming, and has a cool wrist rest and RGB lighting to top it all off.
