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The mechanical keyboard - everything you need to know

The mechanical keyboard - everything you need to know

The mechanical keyboard is a keyboard where each key has its own mechanical switch. The switch is actuated by a button press and triggers a contact signal that is detected by the computer. These switches provide a precise, tactile and audible keyboard feel. Mechanical keyboards are often used in offices and in industry because they have a long service life and work reliably even under heavy use.

General

Mechanical keyboards are input devices that have a mechanical switch that is activated with each keystroke. These switches are typically housed in a keyboard housing that is populated with finger-actuated keys. Mechanical keyboards are commonly used in computers, game consoles and mobile phones.

Many mechanical keyboards use a key matrixConnection, in which each switch is connected to two contacts. One of the contacts is connected to a horizontal row of wires while the other contact is connected to a vertical row of wires. When a key press is triggered, one contact connects to the horizontal row and the other contact connects to the vertical row, making electrical contact.

Most mechanical keyboards use some kind of key matrix to determine the position of the keys. However, some keyboards use a direct connector where each key is connected to a single contact point. This point of contact is then associated with a specific Pin connected to the keyboard motherboard.

The keys on a mechanical keyboard are usually arranged in a specific pattern. This pattern is called the keyboard layout. The most commonly used keyboard layouts are the QWERTY layout and the QWERTZ layout. The QWERTZ layout is mainly found in the German market, as the German language uses the Z more often than that Y. English keyboards, on the other hand, use the QWERTY layout.

Advantages of the mechanical keyboard

The advantages of a mechanical keyboard over a conventional keyboard are its robustness, reliability and durability.

The precise and tactile key switches ensure an exact keyboard feel and allow you to press keys with precision. This is especially true for fast keyboard work and while playing important. Most mechanical keyboards are also very durable because the individual keys are usually better built than on conventional keyboards.

One of the biggest advantages of a mechanical keyboard is the action. The mechanical keyboards are usually built on a switch and have a clear physical key pressure point. This gives the user instant feedback and allows them to press the keys faster and more precisely. In addition, mechanical keyboards are usually very durable and can withstand several million keystrokes before they have to be replaced.

Another benefit of a mechanical keyboard is the precision. Clear physical button press point action makes it much harder to move or miss buttons. This is of particular advantage to faster typists or players, as they make fewer typing errors. Most mechanical keyboards also come with key rollover technology, which makes it harder for keys to be missed.

Another great advantage of the mechanical keyboard is the ergonomics. The clear key pressure points and linear switch action make it much easier to type on a mechanical keyboard than on a traditional keyboard. Most mechanical keyboards also come with ergonomic key layouts and grips that give typists even more comfort and control.

Finally are mechanical keyboards usually also more visually appealing than conventional keyboards. Due to the clear key pressure points and the linear switch action, mechanical keyboards simply appear higher quality. In addition, many mechanical keyboards are included RGB-Lighting equipped that gives an even better look.

Disadvantages of the mechanical keyboard

However, mechanical keyboards are also usually more expensive than traditional keyboards. In addition, they are usually a bit louder, since the individual keys usually make a clear clicking noise.

What you should pay attention to when buying

If you have a mechanical keyboard buy, you should pay attention to some features. First of all, the keyboard should have a good feel so that you don't get tired quickly when typing. Also make sure that the keyboard has good ergonomics so that you don't get into an uncomfortable position when typing. The keyboard should also have good feedback so you know when you've pressed a key.

First of all, you should consider what keyboard size you want. Most mechanical keyboards are either full-size or tenkeyless (TKL), meaning they don't have a numeric keypad. TKL keyboards are a bit smaller and more compact, but still offer all the important keys. Standard size, on the other hand, is better suited if you work frequently with the numeric keypad.

Another important point is the key assignment. Most keyboards have the QWERTZ or QWERTY keymap (the keys laid out on a traditional keyboard), but there are also some alternative keymaps such as Dvorak or Colemak. Before you buy a keyboard, you should consider which key assignment you prefer.

The key height is also an important criterion when choosing a mechanical keyboard. Most keyboards have two-height keys (called scissor switches), but there are some keyboards with four heights (called Cherry MX switches). Choosing the right key height is mostly a matter of personal taste, but there are also some scientific studies showing that a higher key height is better for typing.

Another important point when choosing a mechanical keyboard is choosing the right rocker. Most mechanical keyboards have two types of key rockers: linear and tactile. Linear rockers are smoother and don't have one Resistance, while tactile button rockers have a slight resistance. Tactile rockers are better for typing because they provide better feedback.

Last but not least, you should also pay attention to the build quality of the keyboard. Mechanical keyboards tend to be a bit more expensive than traditional keyboards, but it's worth investing in a good quality one. Mechanical keyboards tend to have a longer lifespan and are also more durable.

the essentials in brief

There are many different types of mechanical keyboards, but they all have some things in common. Mechanical keyboards generally have better keys, longer durability, and better feedback than membrane keyboards. These keyboards are also usually more expensive.

If you are looking for a keyboard for gaming or typing, a mechanical keyboard is usually a better choice. It offers you better feedback and durability. However, they are also more expensive. If you're looking for a cheap keyboard, a membrane keyboard is usually a better choice.

A mechanical keyboard is a great choice for those who type a lot and want a durable and reliable keyboard.

Mechanical keyboard FAQ

What is a mechanical keyboard?

Mechanical keyboards are input devices that have a mechanical switch that is activated with each keystroke. These switches are typically housed in a keyboard housing that is populated with finger-actuated keys. Mechanical keyboards are commonly used in computers, game consoles and mobile phones.

What switches should a mechanical keyboard have?

Most keyboards have two-height keys (called scissor switches), but there are some keyboards with four heights (called Cherry MX switches). Choosing the right key height is mostly a matter of personal preference, but there are also some scientific studies showing that a higher key height is better for typing.

How does a mechanical keyboard work?

Many mechanical keyboards use a keyboard matrix connector, where each switch is connected to two contacts. One of the contacts is connected to a horizontal row of wires while the other contact is connected to a vertical row of wires. When a key press is triggered, one contact connects to the horizontal row and the other contact connects to the vertical row, making electrical contact.

Sources

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