Keyboards, as a vital tool for interacting with computers, are the unsung heroes of our work, play, and creative bursts. Have you ever thought about the secrets behind the keys when you are typing? There are two basic types: mechanical keyboards and membrane keyboards. They have their own flair, swagger, and devoted supporters.
So, what's up with these two keyboards? What's the key difference, and how do you choose the one that's best for you? Let us delve in and discover their secrets!
Before diving into the differences between ordinary and mechanical keyboards, let’s first understand what each type is.
What are Mechanical Keyboards?
The core of a mechanical keyboard lies in its independent mechanical switch. Each key has an independent mechanical switch consisting of a spring and a metal contact.
Different switches can bring different typing experiences: linear switches give you a smooth keystroke, tactile switches provide a noticeable bump midway through the keypress, and clicky switches combine tactile feedback with an audible click.
Click to learn more details about the differences between the linear switch, tactile switch, and clicky switch.
What are Membrane Keyboards?
Membrane keyboards use membrane circuits. Membrane keyboards are made up of three membrane layers; the top and bottom layers are coated with a conductive material, while the middle layer acts as a spacer.
When you press a key, it compresses an elastic silicone layer underneath, connecting the top and bottom circuits to send the signal to your computer.
Key Differences Between Mechanical and Membrane Keyboards
1. Structure: mechanical switch VS membrane layer
As previously stated, each key on the mechanical keyboard has its own mechanical switch. As a result, each key operates with great precision, and each push has its own reaction, eliminating the potential of inadvertent touch.
The construction of a membrane keyboard is very simple. Each key is connected to a rubber pad; there is no independent mechanical switch between the key and the membrane. When the key is pressed, the pad is pushed down to make contact with the circuit board. The keyboard sends different signals depending on where the circuit board is touched.
2. Key feel: Direct VS soft
Mechanical keyboards are independent mechanical switches, which usually have obvious trigger points, so you can feel the accuracy and certainty of the key press. In this way, your fingers can get more feedback information, and get a good typing feel. In addition, different switch can also bring different feels, and this consistency remains even after prolonged use.
In contrast, the touch of the membrane keyboard is softer. When the key is pressed, there is no obvious mechanical feedback and the sound is also small. This makes the membrane keyboard very suitable for occasions where quiet office is required.
3. Durability: 50 million VS 5 million
Mechanical keyboards' durability is undeniably impressive. Each key has a lifespan of more than 50 million presses, with some high-end versions exceeding 80 million. Furthermore, mechanical keyboards are relatively straightforward to maintain; keycaps can be readily removed and changed, and the internal structure is simple to clean. This allows mechanical keyboards to work well in long-term use.
The key life of membrane keyboards is relatively short—generally around 5 million presses. Due to its relatively closed structure, the internal cleaning and maintenance of membrane keyboards are more difficult. In this way, if the keys do not work or are damaged, it is difficult to repair, we have to replace the whole keyboard. This makes membrane keyboards slightly inferior in durability.
4. Customization: Support VS Not support
Since each part of a mechanical keyboard is mostly autonomous, many customization options are available for keycaps, switches, cases, and other parts. The keyboards with hot-swappable switches make easier for us to customize the keyboard. We can place the components with just a few simple steps. In addition, mechanical keyboards usually support macro programming, backlight customization and other functions, which can improve users' work efficiency and gaming experience.
Membrane keyboards offer limited customization options. The design of membrane keyboards involves a single, continuous sheet of pressure pads, which makes it difficult to swap out individual components like keycaps or switches. While some membrane keyboards allow for minor customizations, such as changing keycap colors or adding decals, they generally lack the flexibility and modularity of mechanical keyboards.
5. Cost: High cost VS low cost
The production cost of mechanical keyboard is high and the price is relatively expensive. Especially some high-end models equipped with backlights, programmable keys and other functions, the price has been further increased. However, high prices also mean high quality and better user experience. If you have high requirements for keyboards, mechanical keyboards are undoubtedly a worthwhile investment.
Membrane keyboards have a simple structure, low production cost, and are relatively cheap. For users with limited budgets or low requirements for keyboards, membrane keyboards are a very affordable choice. Especially in daily office and light-use occasions, membrane keyboards are very cost-effective.
6. Noise Level: Loud VS Quiet
Mechanical keyboards are known for their obvious sound feedback. The sound of different switches varies greatly. The sound of clicky switches is very obvious, which is suitable for users who like auditory feedback; the sound of linear switches is relatively quiet, which is suitable for users who need a quiet environment. Mechanical keyboards are usually louder, especially in public places or office environments that require quietness, which may cause inconvenience.
In contrast, membrane keyboards are quieter, and there is no obvious mechanical sound when the keys are tapped, which is suitable for quiet office environments. The sound of membrane keyboards is relatively single, without obvious distinction, and will not interfere with the surrounding environment. It is very suitable for occasions where quiet work is required.
Go to check our 11 Hacks for a Quieter Mechanical Keyboard.
7. N-Key Rollover: Multiple keys VS Single key
Mechanical keyboards excel in key conflicts, and most mechanical keyboards support high N-Key rollover or even full-key conflict-free. This means that you can press multiple keys at the same time, and each key will be accurately recognized and responded to, which is very suitable for gaming and fast typing. In complex game operations, mechanical keyboards can avoid input errors caused by key conflicts and provide a better gaming experience.
Most membrane keyboards have a low N-Key Rollover, often between 2 and 6 keys. This means that if many keys are pressed simultaneously, key conflicts may arise, and certain keys will not be recognized. Membrane keyboards may cause key conflicts in games when numerous keys must be pressed at the same time, impairing the gaming experience. However, for regular office and light use, the key conflict issue with membrane keyboards is not visible and is adequate to suit the needs.
8. Response Time: Fast VS Slow
Mechanical keyboards respond swiftly. Because of the independent mechanical switch, the key is activated instantly when pressed, with an average response time of 1 millisecond. This fast response is very suitable for gamers and high-speed typing users, which can reduce input delays and improve operation accuracy. In scenarios that require high response speed, mechanical keyboards perform very well.
The response time of membrane keyboard is relatively slow. When a key is pressed, the common circuit requires the membrane to make contact in order to complete the circuit. The response time is usually 5 to 10 milliseconds. The membrane keyboard's reaction speed is suitable for ordinary workplace and casual use, but it may fall short in high-demand gaming and fast typing conditions.
Pros and Cons
Mechanical Keyboard
Pros:
- Tactile and audible feedback
- Durable (50-80 million keystrokes)
- Highly customizable (keycaps, switches)
- Consistent and precise typing experience
- Full N-Key rollover (press multiple keys)
- Easier to clean and repair
Cons:
- Generally more expensive
- Can be noisy
- Heavier
- Consumes more power (wireless models)
Membrane Keyboard
Pros:
- More affordable
- Quieter operation
- Lighter and more portable
- Often more resistant to spills
Cons：
- Less durable (5 million keystrokes)
- Mushy feel with less tactile feedback
- Limited customization
- Limited N-Key rollover (ghosting issues)
- Harder to clean and repair
Which Keyboard is Better for You?
For gaming
If you want a keyboard that can level up your game, the mechanical keyboard is a good choice. Quick reactions are really important in the game; mechanical keyboards have a faster response time, usually within 1 millisecond. Mechanical keyboards support full-key conflict-free (NKRO), allowing multiple keys to be pressed at the same time, and each key can be accurately recognized and responded to. In addition, mechanical keyboards have a variety of switches and keycaps to choose from to meet the preferences of different players.
Get our hall effect keyboard to level up your gaming!
For programming
Mechanical keyboards are regarded as better than membrane keyboards in terms of programming. Mechanical keyboards provide clear tactile feedback, making each keystroke easy to identify. This can improve typing accuracy and speed for skilled programmers.
For daily office use
Membrane keyboards are better suited for general office and light use, especially in a quiet environment. Furthermore, because of their simple design and lightweight construction, membrane keyboards are suitable for laptop computers and other portable devices. If you want a cheap, lightweight, and portable keyboard, a membrane keyboard is an excellent choice.
Final Thoughts
Simply choose the keyboard that is most comfortable for you! Consider your typing habits, work or leisure environment, and budget to find the best fit. Explore the world of keyboards, and let the right one take your typing experience to new heights. Simply select the keyboards that are most comfortable for you!
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