Difference Between Mechanical Keyboard and Normal Keyboard
In the world of keyboards, you’ve probably heard the terms “mechanical keyboard” and “normal keyboard” being thrown around. While both serve the same purpose, they are quite different in terms of construction, performance, and overall user experience. In this article, we’ll dive into the key differences, features, and benefits of mechanical and normal keyboards, helping you decide which one might be the best fit for you.
What is a Mechanical Keyboard?
A mechanical keyboard is a type of keyboard that uses individual mechanical switches beneath each key. These switches are responsible for registering each key press and are made up of several moving parts, including a spring, stem, and a set of electrical contacts. The feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard are highly regarded by many typists and gamers due to its tactile feedback and satisfying key press experience.
Unlike other keyboards, mechanical keyboards are built to last longer, offer more precise keystrokes, and provide a variety of customizability options, including different switch types, keycaps, and even lighting features.
How Do Mechanical Keyboards Work?
Mechanical keyboards work through the use of individual switches for each key. These switches contain a mechanism that activates when the key is pressed. The three main types of switches are linear, tactile, and clicky, each providing a different feedback experience:
- Linear switches: Provide smooth key presses without tactile feedback.
- Tactile switches: Offer a noticeable bump when a key is pressed, giving feedback that the key has been activated.
- Clicky switches: Combine tactile feedback with an audible "click" sound, making it satisfying for some users.
When a key is pressed, the internal mechanism connects the electrical contacts, sending a signal to the computer that the key has been pressed.
What is a Normal Keyboard?
A normal keyboard is typically a membrane or rubber dome keyboard. These keyboards are more affordable and commonly used in office and home environments. The keypresses in these keyboards rely on a rubber dome or membrane layer beneath the keys, which is compressed when a key is pressed to complete the circuit and register the key stroke.
While membrane keyboards are quieter and softer compared to mechanical ones, they tend to wear out faster and provide less tactile feedback.
What Are the Differences Between Mechanical and Normal Keyboards?
When comparing mechanical and normal keyboards, several aspects set them apart. Let’s break down the key differences:
Switch Type
- Mechanical Keyboards: Use individual mechanical switches for each key, offering a more responsive and customizable typing experience.
- Normal Keyboards: Typically use rubber dome or membrane switches, which are softer and less durable than mechanical switches.
Key Actuation Force
- Mechanical Keyboards: The actuation force varies by switch type, but mechanical keyboards often require a bit more force to press each key.
- Normal Keyboards: Require less force to press the keys, which can be easier for casual typists or people who don’t type for long periods.
Key Travel Distance
- Mechanical Keyboards: Generally have a longer key travel distance, providing more feedback to the user.
- Normal Keyboards: The key travel is shorter and feels softer, which may not offer as much feedback.
Durability
- Mechanical Keyboards: Are built to last much longer, often up to 50 million key presses per switch, making them ideal for heavy users.
- Normal Keyboards: Tend to wear out faster due to the rubber dome or membrane switches, typically lasting only around 5 million key presses.
Typing Experience
- Mechanical Keyboards: Offer a highly customizable and satisfying typing experience, with distinct feedback and different sounds based on the switch type.
- Normal Keyboards: Provide a quieter and softer typing experience, but the feedback and responsiveness are less compared to mechanical keyboards.
Who Should Buy a Mechanical Keyboard?
Mechanical keyboards are ideal for:
- Gamers: The tactile feedback and customizable switches provide a faster and more accurate response time, enhancing gaming performance.
- Heavy typers: People who type for long periods or professionally can benefit from the durability and comfort mechanical keyboards offer.
- Tech enthusiasts: Those who enjoy customizing their setup, including switch types, keycaps, and RGB lighting, will appreciate the versatility of mechanical keyboards.
- People seeking durability: If you’re looking for a keyboard that will last for years, a mechanical keyboard is a great choice.
Who Should Buy a Normal Keyboard?
Normal keyboards are best suited for:
- Casual users: If you’re only using your keyboard for occasional typing and don’t need any special features, a membrane keyboard will suffice.
- Budget-conscious users: Membrane keyboards are typically cheaper, making them a good option for those on a budget.
- Quiet environments: For offices or shared spaces where noise can be an issue, normal keyboards are quieter and less distracting.
- Light typers: If you don’t type long hours or perform heavy typing tasks, a normal keyboard will meet your basic needs.
Conclusion
Choosing between a mechanical and a normal keyboard ultimately depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re a gamer, professional typist, or someone who values durability and customizable features, a mechanical keyboard is the better option. However, if you’re on a budget or just need a keyboard for basic tasks, a normal keyboard will serve you just fine.
Both types have their advantages and drawbacks, so understanding the differences can help you make a more informed decision.
FAQ
Q: Are mechanical keyboards louder than normal keyboards?
A: Yes, mechanical keyboards, especially clicky switches, are louder due to the distinct sound they make when a key is pressed. Normal keyboards are quieter.
Q: Can I replace the switches on a mechanical keyboard?
A: Yes, many mechanical keyboards offer hot-swappable switches, allowing users to replace the switches without soldering.
Q: Are mechanical keyboards better for typing?
A: Mechanical keyboards provide a better typing experience for many people due to their tactile feedback, longer key travel, and durability, making them more comfortable for long typing sessions.
Q: Are normal keyboards more affordable than mechanical keyboards?
A: Yes, normal keyboards are typically much cheaper than mechanical keyboards, making them a more budget-friendly option.
Q: Do mechanical keyboards last longer?
A: Yes, mechanical keyboards are generally more durable and can last for tens of millions of key presses, whereas normal keyboards wear out much faster.
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