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Jun 22, 2023

Mechanical Keyboard Vs. Membrane Keyboard: Which Is Better?

If you're wondering whether to pick between a mechanical or a membrane keyboard for your PC, here are some things to think about. The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro is one of the best mechanical keyboards

If you're wondering whether to pick between a mechanical or a membrane keyboard for your PC, here are some things to think about.

The 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.

The 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.

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.

RELATED: Best Gaming Keyboards In 2023

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Yes. Mechanical keyboards are satisfying to type on, provide customisation options, and are more durable than membrane keyboards.

While it's a personal preference, typing on a mechanical keyboard surely feels better than on a membrane keyboard.

Mechanical keyboard provide faster response times, which is vital for gaming. They are also more customisable and durable.

NEXT: How To Clean Your Keyboard

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Vaspaan Dastoor is a News Editor for TheGamer. Previously worked at IGN India and constantly tries to get people to make time for an LOTR marathon. He can be found giving hot takes for cold responses at @DastoorVaspaan