Opening a "key" discussion
From the time that we have known computers, we've always known keyboards as just one of many "input" peripherals and it has become so ubiquitous that we have always taken them for granted. As they always say, necessity is the mother of all (re)invention and thus came the evolution of the computer keyboard as we know it today.
Just recently there was a bit of controversy over the use of proprietary keyboard switch technology by a top company (*cough Apple) in its line of laptop products and so after literally years of receiving numerous complaints from loyal and die-hard users they finally dissented, weaved their "magic" and reverted back to the more conventional type of keyboard switch. But we can save this discussion for another article as we are here to talk about another "debate" albeit less controversial and more on the preferential type of subject.
Mechanical Keyboard vs Membrane Keyboard
The first known keyboard in existence was mechanical in nature and from there it was further developed to suit the needs of various applications. Mechanical keyboards are durable, have a very tactile feel, and very good for speed typing due to the sensitivity of the switches. The keys are independent of each other which means that the keycaps can be replaced for purposes of repair or aesthetic enhancements and can easily be cleaned periodically. For this reason, mechanical keyboards are the gamers' preferred choice in their arsenal of peripherals since it allows a user to press several keys at the same time. On the flip side though, mechanical keyboards are more expensive and may be too noisy for somebody's liking.
Decades later and as a result of continuous innovation, the membrane keyboard was invented. It uses a kind of elastomeric material such as silicone underneath the keycaps to simulate the same feeling a user gets from using a mechanical keyboard. Membrane keyboards are relatively cheaper, portable, and quiet. On the other hand, membrane keyboards are harder to maintain as the keycaps are mated with each other so it is a challenge to clean them periodically. The sensitivity is also one of the cons as heavier keystrokes may be needed all the time and thus key rollover is limited. And lastly, the lifespan of most membrane keyboards is shorter than their mechanical counterparts though they can definitely last for several years.
Which one is better?
It really depends on a lot of factors such as purpose, budget, and flexibility. Pure typists and gamers usually go for mechanical keyboards due to their tactile feel and sensitivity. While practical users might opt for the membrane keyboards due to its affordability and portability. Bottom line, it is up to the user to determine which type is most suitable.
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