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

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

Membrane keyboard - features

Membrane devices are extremely common nowadays, which is explained by their simple manufacturing process, as well as their fairly low cost. In most cases, it consists of a regular cable and housing, but inside there is a special plastic substrate on which there are special tracks. With their help, the required 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 jammed inside. Such keyboards are very common and you can find such a device in almost every store.

IMPORTANT. Despite the fact that membrane devices have a low cost, you should not chase the cheapness - there is a risk of running into a low-quality product 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 precise operation.

One of the disadvantages of such a keyboard is that over time, the buttons that are pressed the most will likely become softer than all the others. In most cases, this leads to work becoming more difficult and uncomfortable. You will either have to take the device to a service center or buy a new one.

Mechanical keyboard - features

The mechanical type of device does not have membranes. Instead, special switches are installed inside. Currently, there are a huge number of different models of these switches on the market - thus, the user can choose the ideal keyboard for himself, the internal structure 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 response of the given command, is somewhat faster. The cost of mechanical devices is sometimes much higher.But you should also take into account that their service life also differs from the membrane one.

IMPORTANT. Please note that when choosing a keyboard, you need to pay attention to a large number of factors - among them not only the type of internal structure, 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 be pleasing to the eye, and not stand out too much from the overall color scheme.

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

The most significant difference is, naturally, the internal structure of both types.

1. A mechanical keyboard does not have membranes, and signal transmission is carried out using special switches.
2. The response speed also differs - on a membrane device the keyboard will respond much slower, this is not surprising if you carefully study what exactly is inside it and what the principle of operation is.
3. In addition, in mechanical models, the switches used are mounted directly into a metal board, and this affects the weight of the device. Of course, a keyboard is not an accessory in which weight is very important, but for convenient use of the device you need it not to be too heavy - this will make it difficult to move it around the table or move it to a more suitable place.

How to distinguish a mechanical keyboard from a membrane one

Many users wonder how to distinguish one type of device from another and whether this is possible in principle. Unfortunately, it will be quite difficult to determine the manufacturing technology by appearance. 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 clearly. In addition, their activation threshold is at the very bottom, that is, you need to press the key all the way for the command sent to the screen to work. With mechanical devices, everything is different - you can immediately notice the difference. The press is much softer and smoother, and the trigger occurs approximately halfway through the press.

If you are still not sure that you have correctly identified 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 may vary significantly.

IMPORTANT. Buy devices only from trusted stores, and also be careful when ordering keyboards from the Internet. Fraudsters can easily take advantage of the ignorance of ordinary users and sell a regular membrane keyboard at the price of a mechanical one, indicating incorrect technical characteristics. To prevent this from happening, always study the product yourself before purchasing and do not contact fly-by-night sellers.

Which keyboard is better

There is no doubt that with an impartial assessment it becomes clear that a mechanical keyboard is better. This is explained by the advantages already mentioned above. But does everyone need such an advanced device?

Most offices and many home computers have membrane accessories attached to them. Low cost and other characteristics do not make this option a bad one - rather, on the contrary, many users will want to purchase just such a device due to its ease of use.

A mechanical keyboard is intended for those who often have to deal with typing, as well as for gamers who prefer gaming equipment. Undoubtedly, such users are better off purchasing a keyboard made using this technology. Ultimately, 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 purchase.

Now you know how the two types of keyboards made using different technologies differ from each other, what these devices are intended for and who they are most suitable for. Remember that this device is one of the most important components of a computer and the comfort of using the device depends on it. That is why you should pay special attention to choosing a keyboard in order to purchase exactly the accessory that is ideal for you.