4 Reasons Why You Should Get a Mechanical Keyboard
There are two kinds of people in this world, the first who like a good old silent keyboard with minimal noise, and the other who love that “clicky” sound that keyboard makes. If you are among the latter of people, then what you need is a good mechanical keyboard.
What is a Mechanical Keyboard?
Before we proceed, it is important to know what a mechanical keyboard is and how it differs from a regular keyboard. In a regular keyboard, there is a layer called a membrane, which uses a linked pressure pad to recognize all key presses. This is one uniform layer due to which every key has a similar sound.
However, this membrane works differently on a mechanical keyboard. These keyboards have an individual switch on each key, which is why every key produces a distinct sound upon pressing it. Once you press a key, the switch sends a signal to your computer to recognize which key was pressed.
Not only the sound but even the tactile feel is different once you press a key. You must have noticed how every mechanical keyboard looks and feels like one of those old, OG keyboards IBM used to make. That is actually intentional as these keyboards take inspiration from the IBM Model M keyboard.
One may wonder, “What are some other benefits of getting a mechanical keyboard besides the clicky sound?” For that matter, you have come to the right place. Let’s see what other benefits a mechanical keyboard gives you.
Greater Durability
One major reason to get a mechanical keyboard is the durability that it offers you. This makes a mechanical keyboard the perfect choice for gamers and people who type for a living, such as content writers or content marketers.
The reason behind this is that mechanical keyboards are built to last you a long time. The switches inside the keyboard are able to withstand millions of keypresses. However, a regular membrane keyboard isn’t as durable and will wear quickly. After that, you will have to get the membrane replaced to get your keyboard back to working again.
So, if durability is what you are looking for, then a mechanical keyboard is for you. Not only that, but a mechanical keyboard feels better to type on as well. How does that work, we’ll find out in an upcoming section!
A Greater Typing Feel and Accuracy
I’ve used a mechanical keyboard for a while now, and I noticed how whenever I press a key, I actually feel it. That is mainly because of the distinct sound that it makes. The keys are a lot more responsive, and they bounce right back up every time I press them.
Though it might be psychological, every time I hear that satisfying sound of keys clicking, it makes me want to type more. Not only this, but the keys are very responsive, which makes it easier on my fingertips. I don’t have to press very hard for the keys to register my keypress.
Better Keyboard Ergonomics
I feel like keyboard ergonomics have a lot to do with your efficiency as you type. If your keyboard’s shape isn’t well-suited to your hands, then you will have a hard time typing on it. I noticed how a mechanical keyboard has a compact shape, which makes it easier to type on as compared to a traditional keyboard.
I also believe that a mechanical keyboard can reduce the risk of carpal tunnel or wrist pain as you type, especially if you pair it up with a cushioned wrist support while you type. So when it comes to design and ergonomics, a mechanical keyboard definitely takes the cake!
The Ease of Customization
As a PC gamer, I’ve been euphoric ever since I got a mechanical keyboard for myself, all thanks to the ease of customization. Most mechanical keyboards (including my own) come with customizable macro keys.
You can assign different actions on different keys to improve your gaming skills according to your needs. This way, you can reduce your keypresses and arrange your keys per your gameplay. For instance, you can set your shoot and weapon change buttons near your movement buttons for smoother gameplay.
Not only this, but the keyboard’s keycaps, body, layouts, and switches can also be altered as per your requirements, enhancing your experience with the keyboard. You can find a multitude of customizable keys and keyboard bodies online on online stores like Etsy and Amazon. Before you proceed, make sure your internet is reliable enough for you to track your delivery status online. I personally used Spectrum Internet while tracking the status of my keyboard delivery, and it helped me substantially!
An Extra Tip
If you want to make the most out of your mechanical keyboard, make sure that you clean it out periodically. Remove all the keys and give the keyboard a good old cleaning. This will clear out dust and debris from the keyboard, giving you a smooth typing experience.