Compared with many veterans, many people may be very unfamiliar with mechanical keyboards, but I can confidently say one thing: many myths about mechanical keyboards circulating on the Internet are not correct. In addition to mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ordinary computer users may still have some misunderstandings about it that are far from the truth, and these misunderstandings cover all aspects, from appearance to feel and sound. This time we have selected 6 to tell you about them, so that you can see the bright moon through the clouds.
6 misconceptions about mechanical keyboards
1. Mechanical keyboards are just a gimmick
Almost everyone started their keyboard journey with the most common membrane keyboard. As long as they don’t compare, there is no sense of difference. But when mechanical keyboards began to become more popular in the early 2000s thanks to a new wave of so-called “gaming keyboards,” it became clear that an objectively superior typing experience had arrived. Although mechanical keyboards have been around since the 1970s, they only emerged in their current form in recent years. With a mechanical keyboard, you can forego a single membrane and instead use individual key shafts to make contact with the PCB board. No matter what type of user you are, mechanical keyboards inherently have higher feedback speeds and provide a more precise and satisfying typing experience.
You can customize nearly every aspect of a mechanical keyboard to customize your typing experience to your liking. They are also more durable, easier to repair, and offer more variety and functionality than membrane keyboards. If you’re still not convinced, you should find a way to experience typing on a mechanical keyboard, maybe trying it out at a store near you will open up a new world to your experience.
2. Mechanical keyboards are only suitable for gamers
The root of this fallacy lies in the fact that in 2000 or even 2010, this technology began to be popularized mainly through gaming keyboards. Although these keyboards were launched by big brands, they were usually of poor quality, expensive, and had various macro designs, which led consumers to misunderstand that only gamers need expensive mechanical keyboards with so many unnecessary functions.
Although e-sports mechanical keyboards still have a large market share, there are now other groups of non-gamers who buy off-the-shelf mechanical keyboards for work and daily use, and there are also people who want to assemble more personalized DIY mechanical keyboards. Apart from expensive big-brand gaming keyboards, the mechanical keyboard market mainly caters to enthusiasts and professionals who prioritize a quality typing experience. With all the different layouts, switch options, keycap styles, material variety, and DIY kits available, it’s hard to argue that mechanical keyboards are just for gamers.
3. All mechanical keyboards make noise
While the earliest mechanical keyboards were indeed loud compared to most membrane keyboards, this is no longer the case. In fact, there are countless forums and creators dedicated to the research of customized keyboard sounds. Due to the nature of how mechanical keyboards are assembled, you can change the keyboard sound by replacing different key shafts, keycaps, sound insulation materials, casings, stabilizers, etc.
If you like a mechanical keyboard with a distinctive, loud click, there are tons of customization and off-the-shelf options. But if you prefer a silent keyboard, there are still countless keyboards to choose from. Linear axis usually provides the best silent keyboard experience, and you can even choose a keyboard with a wooden or aluminum shell, which will sound particularly muffled.
Finally, once you have the confidence and patience, you can try building a keyboard from scratch, or use a semi-finished DIY kit to add your own choice of switches and keycaps. Whether you buy a silent, off-the-shelf keyboard or build your own mechanical keyboard, you have unlimited freedom.
4. Mechanical keyboards are too complicated
Of course, compared to a membrane keyboard, choosing a mechanical keyboard can be overwhelming for newbies because there are so many parts to consider. However, if you are a mechanical keyboard enthusiast and it is not your first time to assemble a mechanical keyboard, you will not have these problems at all. You just need to narrow down your preferences based on a few parameters and settle on a reliable and well-reviewed off-the-shelf keyboard that will suit all your needs.
First, decide what keyboard size or layout you want. Each keyboard layout has pros and cons, but you can make it easier by deciding which keyboards you absolutely need and which size looks most satisfying to you. After deciding on the size, you should decide on the type of key switches you want, as this will have a big impact on the keyboard typing experience.
Linear is great for gaming and typing, but if you want a noticeable graininess when pressing keys, Tactile might be better. For those who prefer the typical loud sound of a mechanical keyboard, the Clicky is a more ideal choice. Finally, decide whether you want a wired or wireless keyboard and what additional features you want, such as a hot-swappable PCB for easy key switch replacement, RGB backlighting, and more. Buying your first off-the-shelf keyboard doesn’t have to be too much of a hassle, and there are already plenty of carefully tuned options on the market to suit your needs.
5. Bigger keyboards are better
If you’re new to mechanical keyboards, you might be tempted to choose a keyboard with a full-size (100%) or 1800 (compact full-size) layout because these are the sizes you’re most familiar with. But before you decide that the biggest mechanical keyboard you can find is the best, consider the drawbacks that might come with it. First, a full-size keyboard takes up the most space on your desk, which can be troublesome if your desk doesn’t have enough space.
Full size reduces productivity because your hand has to travel further to use each key and use the mouse. In addition, after using it for a period of time, you may not like the appearance of a full-size keyboard compared to other mainstream-sized keyboards. Finally, if you often prefer to work without a fixed seat, a 100% keyboard is not portable. If you don’t really need a separate numeric keyboard, don’t blindly choose a full-size keyboard.
In terms of features, you’ll find almost all the features of a full-size keyboard in a more compact keyboard, including macros and dedicated media controls. So evaluate your priorities carefully and choose a layout that meets most requirements.
Further reading:Full size, TKL, 60% off? Let you know the keyboard size & which one is suitable for you
6. Mechanical keyboards are too expensive
Mechanical keyboards have been prohibitively expensive in the past, especially when gaming keyboards first debuted, and you had to spend at least $200 for a well-built, feature-packed keyboard with few compromises. Now, for just $70 you can get a wireless, hot-swappable, gasketed keyboard that even comes with PBT keycaps and rugged build quality.
You even have lower-priced keyboards with a decent level of quality for under $50. Sure, you can still find premium keyboards for over $500, but the average price across the market is much cheaper than it was just a few years ago, making the barrier to entry lower for newbies.
Mechanical keyboards are now experiencing a peak period. There are countless big brands and niche brands to choose from, and the prices are more affordable than ever. Customized manufacturers have launched a large number of DIY kits. The community is full of electronic craze. You can find various sharings on major social platforms, forums, and video platforms.
Source: KOCPC Chinese