Mechanical Keyboard Vs. Membrane Keyboard: Which Is Better?
Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro
Backlight Razer Chroma™ RGB Media Controls Razer Command Dial / Multi-function roller / 4 Media Keys Num Pad Yes Switch Type Razer Mechanical Green or Yellow Switches Replaceable Keys Magnetic plush leatherette Number of Keys 104The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro is one of the best mechanical keyboards you can buy. It gives you the option to choose between clicky green or smooth yellow Switches. It also features a command dial with eight fully customisable modes.
Pros & Cons- Option to choose between clicky and smooth switches
- Multi-purpose dial for full control
- Magnetic plush leatherette wrist rest
Roccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming Keyboard
Wireless No Backlight Three-zone RGB lighting Media Controls Dual-function media keys Num Pad Yes Switch Type Membrane Replaceable Keys NoThe Roccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming Keyboard is for you if you want to be quick and silent. It features a detachable wrist rest for those long sessions and also a transparent upper layer to make the lighting look all the better.
Pros & Cons- Transparent stylish upper plate.
- Detachable wrist rest
- dual function media keys
Summary
- Mechanical keyboards are more durable and long-lasting compared to membrane keyboards, as they have replaceable switches and removable keycaps.
- Mechanical keyboards offer a variety of switch types, allowing for a personalized typing experience, while membrane keyboards lack this customization and precise feel.
- Mechanical keyboards provide more customization options, such as hot-swapping switches and custom keycaps, making them a better choice overall compared to membrane keyboards.
Choosing the right keyboard for your setup is very important. Be it a gaming PC, a work setup, or even an external keyboard for your laptop, the right keyboard will change the way you play video games or type. There are a number of things to consider before purchasing a keyboard; like if you need a numpad, or if you prefer a wireless one. However, the most basic decision you need to make at first is whether you want a mechanical keyboard or a membrane keyboard.
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These are the two most basic keyboard types, each with their own types of technology, pros, and cons. There are some key factors you need to consider before choosing between either of the two types of keyboards. We've listed these factors down in order for you to make a more informed decision when shopping for your next keyboard.
Razer BlackWidow V4 ProRoccat Magma Silent Membrane Gaming KeyboardBacklightRazer Chroma™ RGBThree-zone RGB lightingMedia ControlsRazer Command Dial / Multi-function roller / 4 Media KeysDual-function media keysNum PadYesYesSwitch TypeRazer Mechanical Green or Yellow SwitchesMembraneReplaceable KeysMagnetic plush leatheretteNoNumber of Keys104104Wrist restYesDetachableDimensions18.36 x 6.01 x 1.73 inches15.75 x 7.87 x 1.57 inches
Durability
The fist and most basic aspect that you need to consider is that mechanical keyboards are built on better and more durable technology than membrane ones. They have more moving parts, specifically the switches, but the nature of this technology makes mechanical keyboards last longer than membrane ones in general.
Even if a particular key was to get spoilt, and you had replaceable switches, you wouldn't have to throw out the entire keyboard, just pop in the new switch. Almost every mechanical keyboard also allows you to remove the keycaps, making them easier to clean, and due to that, last longer.
Switch Types
Mechanical keyboards let you choose from a number of switch types, each offering a unique feel while typing. Certain switches make a satisfying click sound while, others are smooth and have a shorter travel distance for speed. There are also those that give you a tactile click while typing, which is great for writing-heavy tasks. These switches are sometimes removable and even allow you to swap keycaps.
Membrane keyboards are limited in this sense. While some of them do give you some sound while typing, that's just a result of you pressing the keys hard. They also don't feel as good to type on as mechanical keyboards do, since they do not have individual switches. Each press does not feel as precise as one on a mechanical keyboard, making them less satisfying to use for gaming and typing.
Customisation
While both types of keyboards offer customisation options, the maximum a mechanical keyboard can do is give one key multiple functions. Meanwhile, not only do mechanical keyboards let you hot-swap switches at your own will, but you can also get custom keycaps to make your keyboard look however you want it to.
Bottom Line
If it's still unclear, mechanical keyboards are better than membrane keyboards in almost every way. Yes, they are a bit heavier and cost more, but in the long run, they are more durable and can offer you more as well. Even if you don't like the sound that mechanical keyboards make, you can get one with silent switches and less travel distance.
We usually try to keep these comparison articles as objective and neutral as possible, so that you can make your own decision with all the information in hand. However, we can't in good conscience suggest a good membrane keyboard over a good mechanical keyboard. Unless it's a matter of price or weight - and those can still be worked around - mechanical keyboards are the better choice.
FAQ
Are mechanical keyboards better than membrane?
Yes. Mechanical keyboards are satisfying to type on, provide customisation options, and are more durable than membrane keyboards.
Is membrane keyboard good for typing?
While it's a personal preference, typing on a mechanical keyboard surely feels better than on a membrane keyboard.
Why do gamers like mechanical keyboards?
Mechanical keyboard provide faster response times, which is vital for gaming. They are also more customisable and durable.
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