A common feature in modern keyboard advertising is the keyboard being mechanical.
Unfortunately, exactly what this means and what the alternatives are, is generally not very well explained.
Contents
What is a mechanical keyboard?
A mechanical keyboard uses a mechanical switch to signal if the key has been pressed or not.
The switch is comprised of three parts, a keycap, stem, and switch.
The keycap is the actual key that is pressed, it is typically removable (with care).
An arm on the stem is used to open and end the switch.
By changing the shape of the arm, the tactile experience of the keypress can be changed.
There are plenty of different tactile options available.
As soon as the increased resistance is passed the switch closes and the keypress registers.
What are the alternatives?
There are two main alternatives to mechanical keyboards: membrane and scissor-switch.
When the key is released the rubber/silicone dome returns to its original shape.
Membrane keys generally dont offer much in the way of tactile feedback beyond bottoming out the key.
With usage over time, the resistance offered by the membrane dome can decrease making using it feel mushy.
This marginally decreases the time required for the key to be detected as pressed.
Mechanical keyboards sound a lot louder, generally somewhat like an old typewriter.
Scissor switch keys tend to be a little louder than that with a higher-pitched clicking sound.
Mechanical key switches are designed for a significantly longer lifespan than membrane keyboards.
Cherry MX switches are rated between 20 and 50 million keystrokes depending on the throw in of switch.
In comparison, membrane keyboards are generally rated for 5 million keystrokes.
