As a gamer, your keyboard is one of the principal tools to depart swift destruction upon your enemies. It is the interface between you and the virtual world, the instrument that translates your actions into in-game movements.
When it comes to keyboards, there are two broad categories: mechanical and membrane. Both have their pros and cons and choosing the right one can have a massive impact on your gaming experience.
Today we will discuss which keyboard is better for gaming and go over the advantages and disadvantages of both types of keyboards so that you can choose one that best serves your needs.
Mechanical Keyboards: Why Are They So Popular?
Mechanical keyboards have gained popularity among gamers in recent years. Unlike traditional membrane keyboards, mechanical keyboards have a more tactile feel and faster response times, making them a preferred choice for many gamers.
A mechanical keyboard uses individual mechanical switches for each key. These switches consist of a base, stem, and spring, registering each keystroke through a physical actuation process. When you press a key on a mechanical keyboard, you can feel the switch being activated and hear a distinct click or clack sound. This tactile feedback provides a satisfying sensation and allows for a more responsive and precise typing experience.
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|
| Faster response time. Register keystrokes more quickly and accurately, which is essential in fast-paced games. | Noisy |
| Customizable feel. Different mechanical switches offer varying degrees of tactile feedback, actuation force, and noise levels, allowing gamers to choose a switch that best suits their preferences and gaming style. | Individual mechanical switches can collect dust and debris more easily, which can affect their performance over time. |
| Long lifespan and durability. Proven to withstand between 30 and 70 million keystrokes | Expensive |
Heavier |
In terms of popular mechanical keyboards used by gamers, some examples include the Corsair K70 RGB, the Logitech G Pro X, and the Razer Blackwidow Elite. These keyboards offer a range of mechanical switch options and additional features such as customizable RGB lighting and programmable macro keys.
However, there are a ton of other options that also exist depending on your budget. Generally, though, mechanical keyboards are on the more expensive end of the spectrum compared to their membrane brethren.
Membrane Keyboards: Are They Worth It?
Membrane keyboards use a thin membrane as the primary component for key actuation. These keyboards comprise three layers: the top membrane layer, a spacer layer, and the bottom membrane layer. The top layer contains the labels for the keys, while the bottom layer houses the electrical circuits. The spacer layer serves as a spring-like mechanism that returns the key to its original position after being pressed.
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordability. They are much cheaper to produce than mechanical keyboards and are widely available at a lower cost. | Decreased level of tactile feedback. |
| Quiter. Suitable for office environments and late-night gaming sessions. | Prone to ghosting. A phenomenon in which a keyboard fails to register multiple keystrokes simultaneously |
| Available in a variety of options. | Shorter Lifespan. 5 million keystrokes. |
| Crisp response and feedback. | Not as sturdy. |
| They are small and compact, making them easier to travel with. | Hard to replace individual parts. |
Some popular membrane keyboards gamers use include the Logitech G213 Prodigy Gaming Keyboard, Razer Cynosa Chroma Gaming Keyboard, and the Corsair K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard. These keyboards offer customizable lighting, macro keys, and multimedia controls, making them suitable for gaming.
Membrane keyboards are usually much cheaper to purchase and are therefore great choices for those on a budget. But, there are some expensive offerings too – such as the aforementioned Razer’s Cynosa Chroma.
The Verdict
While mechanical and membrane keyboards have their pros and cons, mechanical keyboards are the preferred choice for most serious gamers. They offer a faster, more durable, and more accurate gaming experience thanks to their ability to recognize multiple keypress inputs simultaneously.
Membrane keyboards are a good option for those prioritizing a quieter, more affordable keyboard. Ultimately, the type of keyboard that’s best for you will depend on your specific gaming needs and preferences.
