What is the difference between a mechanical keyboard and a membrane one?

The keyboard is an integral part of the configuration of any computer, which allows you to perform all device controls. In today's market, there are a huge number of different keyboard models, which can be difficult for a beginner to understand. For example, not every user knows how a mechanical model differs from a membrane one and what it is. You will learn about the features of both types of keyboards, as well as which one will be the most suitable, in this article.

Membrane Keyboard Features

Membrane devices are extremely common at present, due to the simple method of manufacture, as well as the rather low cost.It consists in most cases of a conventional cable and housing, but inside there is a special plastic substrate on which there are special tracks. With their help, the desired signal will be sent to the connected device. It is under it that there are membranes, which due to their plasticity allow the signal to reach the computer. In addition, it is with their help that the keys return to their original position, and do not remain clamped inside. Such keyboards are very common and in almost every store you can find such a device.

IMPORTANT. Despite the fact that membrane devices have a low cost, you should not chase cheapness - there is a risk of running into low-quality goods that will break very quickly. In this case, the desire to save money will be unjustified - soon you will have to buy a new keyboard.

There are also membrane rubber accessories. These models are supplemented with special rubber caps, which allows for faster and more accurate response.

One of the drawbacks of such a keyboard will be that over time, the buttons that are pressed most often are likely to become softer than everyone else. In most cases, this leads to the fact that work becomes more difficult and uncomfortable. You have to either carry the device to a service center or buy a new one.

Mechanical Keyboard Features

There are no membranes in the mechanical type of device. Instead, special switches are installed inside. Currently, there are a huge number of different models of these switches on the market - so the user can choose the perfect keyboard for themselves, the internal device of which will differ depending on the purpose and preferences of the future owner. The main advantage is that the signal transmission, and, consequently, the triggering of the command issued, is somewhat faster. The cost of mechanical devices is sometimes much higher. But you should also take into account the fact that their service life also differs from the membrane.

IMPORTANT. Please note that when choosing a keyboard you need to pay attention to a large number of factors - among them are not only the type of internal device, but also the softness of the keys, response speed and much more. In addition, the device should be combined with the rest of the computer and pleasing to the eye, and not too stand out from the general color scheme.

What is the difference between a mechanical keyboard and a membrane

The most significant difference is, of course, the internal device of both types.

  1. The mechanical keyboard has no membranes, and the signal is transmitted using special switches.
  2. The response speed also differs - on a membrane device the keyboard will respond much more slowly, this is not surprising if you carefully examine what exactly is inside it and what is the principle of operation.
  3. In addition, in mechanical models, the switches used are mounted directly on a metal board, and this affects the weight of the device. Of course, the keyboard is not an accessory in which weight is very important, but for convenient use of the device it is necessary that it is not too heavy - it will be difficult to move it around the table or rearrange it to a more suitable place.

How to distinguish a mechanical keyboard from a membrane

Many users are wondering how it is possible to distinguish one type of device from another and whether this is possible in principle. Unfortunately, in appearance it will be quite difficult to determine the manufacturing technology. But you can always understand what exactly is in front of you if you press at least one key.

The fact is that membrane devices “click” much louder and more distinctly. In addition, the threshold for their operation is at the very bottom, that is, you need to press the key to the end so that the command sent to the screen works. In mechanical devices, everything is different - you can immediately notice the difference. Pressing is much softer and smoother, and triggering occurs approximately in the middle of pressing.

If you are still not sure that you have correctly determined which device is in front of you, then you can try to disassemble it - step-by-step instructions for each specific model are very easy to find on the Internet. Please note that keyboards from different manufacturers can vary significantly.

IMPORTANT. Purchase devices exclusively in trusted stores, and be careful when ordering keyboards from the Internet. Fraudsters can easily take advantage of the ignorance of ordinary users and sell an ordinary membrane keyboard at a mechanical price, indicating incorrect technical specifications. To avoid this, always study the product yourself before buying and do not contact one-day sellers.

Which keyboard is better

Undoubtedly, with an unbiased assessment, it becomes clear that it is a mechanical keyboard that is better. This is due to the benefits mentioned above. But does everyone need such an advanced device?

In most offices and many home computers, membrane accessories are connected. Low cost and other characteristics do not make this option bad - rather, on the contrary, many users will want to purchase just such a device due to its unpretentious use.

The mechanical keyboard is intended for those who often have to deal with typing, as well as for gamers who prefer gaming equipment. Undoubtedly, it is better for such users to purchase a keyboard made using this technology. In the end, the choice is yours - both of these keyboards have both their advantages and disadvantages, so it is up to you to decide what will be more significant in each case. In addition, when choosing a device, you should also take into account other parameters that may seem more important and then the membrane accessory will become a more profitable acquisition.

Now you know the difference between the two types of keyboards produced by different technologies, what these devices are for and who they are more suitable for. Remember that this device is one of the most important components of the computer and the comfort of using the device depends on it. That is why the choice of keyboard should be given special attention in order to purchase exactly the accessory that is ideal for you.

Watch the video: Mechanical vs Membrane Keyboards: Are Mechanical Keyboards Worth It? (April 2024).

Leave Your Comment