Mechanical keyboard: advantages and disadvantages at a glance

Frequent typists and gamers rely on the advantages of mechanical keyboards. We show you the benefits and disadvantages of these keyboards.

Advantages and disadvantages of mechanical keyboards

The common keyboards are usually semi-mechanical. Small plastic or silicone pads (rubber domes) are located below the buttons, which push the buttons up again. A spiral spring is used in mechanical keyboards.

• Advantages: Mechanical keyboards have a longer service life, are more resilient and offer consistent quality when typing. The resistance and the pressure point differ for different models (more on this in the next paragraph). In addition, a mechanical keyboard can send any number of keystrokes to the computer at the same time.
• Disadvantages: The classic mechanical keyboards are often very loud, with the newer models the noise is suppressed quite well. If you have used a semi-mechanical keyboard with flattened keys for years, you first have to get used to the large keys. Mechanical keyboards are also more expensive because the structure is more complex, but there are also cheap models from 30 euros.
• Conclusion: Even if a mechanical keyboard can handle up to 50 million keystrokes, the usual 5 million keystrokes of a semi-mechanical keyboard are sufficient for most people. If you already have a few keyboards on your conscience or use your keyboard very often, the purchase of a mechanical keyboard can be worthwhile. Ultimately, however, it remains a matter of taste.

Mechanical keyboard: There are these types of keys

There are different key types for mechanical keyboards. Depending on your needs, MX Browns, MX Blues, MX Blacks and MX Reds are suitable.

• The MX Browns come closest to the modern rubber dome keyboards. The pressure point is quite low, so the feedback is triggered quite quickly.
• The MX Blues behave similarly to the MX Browns. However, the keys emit a clearer sound when struck. This could disturb people in your immediate area.
• MX Reds are also similar to the MX Browns. However, the buttons are easier to press because the spring is much softer.
• MX Blacks are often favored by gamers. The keys hardly give any feedback when touched, which can be confusing when typing, but is optimal for gaming. Keys can be pressed much faster and more frequently.

In the next practical tip, we will show you a comparison of three good mechanical keyboards.