I recently added a new mechanical keyboard to my collection, and it just arrived (it’s on the poster to this blog post). This one isn’t meant to replace my main keyboard at home — it’s more of an option for working in the office. I might do a full review of this keyboard later on, but that’s not what I’m here to talk about today. Instead, I want to take a moment to introduce you to the world of mechanical keyboards and share why they’ve become one of my favorite hobbies.
If you’ve never used a mechanical keyboard before, this post might just inspire you to give one a try. After all, who knows? You might end up enjoying them as much as I do.
As someone who spends a lot of time in front of a computer, you know how important it is to have the right tools. Whether you’re coding, writing documentation, or just getting through a long day of emails, the keyboard you use plays a huge role in your daily experience. For a lot of people, keyboards are an afterthought — just a basic input device that came with the computer. But for those of us who have discovered the world of mechanical keyboards, it’s a bit more than that. It’s become a bit of a passion.
What Exactly Is a Mechanical Keyboard?
At a basic level, a mechanical keyboard is different from the usual cheap keyboards because it uses individual mechanical switches under each key instead of a single sheet of rubber membranes. That might sound a bit technical, but the difference is pretty straightforward: each key on a mechanical keyboard has its own mechanism that makes it work. This gives each key a more distinct feel and sound when you press it.
There are different types of switches used in mechanical keyboards. Some are smooth and quiet (called linear switches), some give you a little bump to let you know the key has been activated (tactile switches), and others add an audible click along with that bump (clicky switches). Each type of switch offers a different typing experience, and part of the fun is figuring out which one feels best for you.
Why Do Mechanical Keyboards Cost More?
If you’ve looked into mechanical keyboards before, you might have noticed that they’re generally more expensive than the average keyboard. There are a few reasons for this:
Build Quality: Mechanical keyboards are built to last. The switches themselves are designed to handle millions of keypresses, far outlasting those cheap rubber dome keyboards.
Materials: Higher-end materials are used, from the keycaps to the frame. This makes the keyboard feel more solid and durable.
Customization: There’s also a lot more room for customization with mechanical keyboards, from choosing the type of switch to selecting custom keycaps.
It’s not just about paying more for the sake of it. The higher price often reflects the better build quality and the specific features that make a mechanical keyboard more enjoyable to use day in and day out.
Mechanical Keyboards vs. Gaming Keyboards
Mechanical keyboards often get lumped together with gaming keyboards, and while there’s definitely some overlap, they’re not the same thing.
Gaming Keyboards: These are often designed with extra features that gamers might want, like RGB lighting, macro keys, and sometimes even built-in screens or extra ports. They tend to prioritize quick response times and flashy looks, which are great if you’re into gaming but might be overkill for everyday work.
Mechanical Keyboards: While many gaming keyboards use mechanical switches, mechanical keyboards themselves aren’t just for gamers. They’re more about the typing experience — how it feels to press each key and the overall build quality. If you’re spending hours typing, a mechanical keyboard is worth considering, even if you’re not a gamer.
The Rabbit Hole of Custom Mechanical Keyboards
Once you start getting into mechanical keyboards, you might find yourself drawn into the world of custom keyboards. This is where things get really interesting (and maybe a bit obsessive).
With custom keyboards, you can choose everything: the case, the type of switches, the keycaps, and even the layout. It’s kind of like building your own PC but on a smaller scale. For example, if you prefer a more compact keyboard, you can build one with a 60% layout, which drops the number pad and function keys, making it smaller and easier to transport. Or if you need something specific for your workflow, you can add extra keys or create custom key bindings.
It’s not just about the technical side, either. Custom keycaps come in all sorts of designs and materials, so you can make your keyboard look as unique as you want. Some people even get into custom painting or engraving their keyboards.
Why Should You Care?
So, why bother with all of this? If you spend most of your day typing, a mechanical keyboard can make that experience more enjoyable. It’s not just about having a fancier tool; it’s about finding something that feels good to use, day after day. Whether it’s the satisfying click of a switch, the feel of a solid metal case, or the look of custom keycaps, there’s something about a well-made mechanical keyboard that just makes typing more satisfying.
And who knows? Maybe, like me, you’ll find yourself getting deeper into the hobby, experimenting with different switches, layouts, and designs. Or maybe you’ll just find one keyboard that you love and stick with it. Either way, it’s worth exploring if you haven’t already.
Conclusion
In the end, it’s not about selling you on mechanical keyboards — it’s about sharing something that has made a difference in my daily routine a long time ago, and something I think could do the same for you.
Thank you!
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