The keyboard is an essential part of any computer setup. But while it might seem like a mundane piece of equipment, there are many different types of mechanical keyboards out there, and they vary considerably. The most obvious difference is that a mechanical keyboard uses switches under the keys instead of the traditional membrane-style keypads. These switches have several moving parts and are designed to be able to handle roughly 10x the amount of clicks of a standard keyboard before breaking down. This, combined with the fact that each keystroke is registered individually rather than shared across a large area, makes these keyboards more durable than their membrane-style counterparts and can be a big selling point for users who might need to use a keyboard for work or for gaming.
Mechanical keyboards are also built to be more customizable than the standard keyboard. Depending on your needs, you might want to be able to record macros, remap key combinations, or change backlighting on the keyboard. Most options come with software or a simple programming language to allow for this customization, and you might also need to consider the layout of the keyboard, whether it’s an ANSI or ISO style layout (with either straight or angular enter keys taking up one row height) and other things like programmable media hotkeys.
In addition to the switch type, you will need to decide how much resistance and feedback you would prefer. The most common switch types are the Cherry MX-compatible blue “clicky” switches, with a pronounced bump at the actuation point and a loud clicking sound to give feedback to the user that the key has been pressed down. These switches are a popular choice for typists, and some even offer the ability to program in a “tactile” mode where you can lower the resistance slightly without making any noise at all.
Other options include “silk” and brown switches that are a bit less tactile but still provide good feedback. Lastly, there are also optical switches that closely resemble Cherry MX switches, use the same housing design and are compatible with the same keycaps, but work in a different way by using an infrared sensor to register a key press. They tend to have a smoother feel and are more durable than mechanical Cherry-style switches.
Most mechanical keyboards are wired, with a USB cable running from board to computer. But there are also a number of wireless options that have become more popular in recent years, especially among gamers. These wireless models can be a convenient solution for users who travel frequently or need to have the flexibility of relocating their desktop. However, they can be more susceptible to lag and other problems that can affect typing accuracy and efficiency. Some of the best wireless keyboards offer features like low latency and an anti-ghosting function that can prevent missed keystrokes or double key presses. While these extras won’t be necessary for every user, they can be a great way to enhance your experience.