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Membrane switches keyboard: The best membrane keyboards 2023

The 6 best membrane keyboards

In the world of computer keyboards, most options are split between two major categories: mechanical keyboards and membrane keyboards. Whereas mechanical keyboards are spring-loaded with physical switches so they’re tactile and clicky, membrane keyboards use a rubber or silicone dome underneath each key, which makes them quieter, less resistive, and more affordable. The best membrane keyboards are responsive, well-made even though they’re less distracting, and compatible with both your lifestyle and existing devices.

What To Look For In A Membrane Keyboard

Durability: Membrane keyboards are typically known for being less durable than mechanical keyboards. That said, the right features can increase their lifespan. Some brands test their keyboards for longevity (in number of keystrokes) and advertise that information. Others protect and reinforce their hardware with things like spill-resistant designs and braided cables.

Compatibility: Before you choose a keyboard, make sure it’s compatible with your existing technology — both when it comes to the operating system and the ports and cables needed to hook it up.

Responsiveness: The primary function of a keyboard is to register keystrokes, but cheaper membrane keyboards have been known to skip inputs — especially if multiple keys are being pressed at the same time. Anti-ghosting technology helps make sure that all keystrokes are quickly and accurately registered in the order they were pressed.

Volume: Many people opt for membrane keyboards because they’re quieter than mechanical keyboards. While most brands won’t advertise a concrete measurement for this like decibels, you can look for keyboards that are designed for quiet use and has that backed up by reviewers.

Comfortability and Convenience: Especially if you work or game for hours at a time, your keyboard should be comfortable and convenient to use. Comfort may come in the form of a built-in wrist rest or ergonomically curved keys — while convenience may mean a backlight, a keyboard lock, a wireless design, or programmable keys.

Shop The Best Membrane Keyboards

In a hurry? Here are the top picks for membrane keyboards, whether you’re using your computer to work or game.

  1. The overall best: HyperX Alloy Core RGB Membrane Gaming Keyboard
  2. The best for gaming: Corsair K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard
  3. An affordable wireless mouse & keyboard combo: Logitech MK295 Wireless Mouse & Keyboard Combo
  4. A quiet keyboard with a mechanical feel: Redragon K509-RGB PC Gaming Keyboard
  5. A comfortable keyboard for Windows: Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard
  6. The best Bluetooth membrane keyboard: Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated Keyboard

1. The overall best

Amazon

HyperX Alloy Core RGB Membrane Gaming Keyboard

$30

Pros:

  • Spill-resistant with a reinforced braided cable
  • Comfortable, quiet, responsive keys
  • RGB lighting effects
  • Designated media keys

Cons:

  • The lights are bright and it’s not the quietest out there, so some reviewers find it distracting

The HyperX Alloy Core RGB keyboard has an average 4. 6-star rating after feedback from more than 4,000 reviewers. Even though it’s a relatively quiet membrane keyboard, it’s still durable, spill-resistant, and has anti-ghosting technology to help make sure every keystroke is registered. Despite its affordable price tag, it also has plenty of extra features like six pre-set LED lighting effects, dedicated media keys, a keyboard lock mode, and quick-access buttons where you can control the lighting profiles and enter gaming mode.

One reviewer wrote: “Honestly if I could recommend any membrane keyboard, this would be it. Pros: membrane so very quiet, media controls are exquisite, very customizable, Fn+F12 allows you to disable all input/lock the keys, great for cleaning, been using for several months and keys feel great still.”

Compatible operating systems: Windows 7, 8. 8.1, and 10 | Connectivity technology: USB 2.0 | Anti-Ghosting: yes

2. The best membrane keyboard for gaming

Amazon

Corsair K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard

$35

Pros:

  • Highly customizable
  • Comfortable and convenient for gaming
  • Affordable despite its quality

Cons:

  • Some reviewers don’t like the key layout

Yes, it’s a membrane keyboard — but six programmable macro keys, a detachable palm rest, and customizable RGB backlighting make the Corsair K55 keyboard a favorite among gamers. It also has anti-ghosting technology and is resistant to dust and accidental spills, so it’s one of the more responsive and durable options out there. Finally, if you switch from gaming to streaming, you can control the volume and media playback directly from the keyboard.

One reviewer wrote: “What drew me to this keyboard was just how solid it looked with how many different features it has. The programable ‘G’ buttons are a welcomed upgrade from a standard keyboard that lacks this function, but the inclusion of dedicated media control buttons make this the ultimate combination of a gaming keyboard and a media consumption keyboard. The lighting software is also very easy to use and gives loads of options.”

Compatible operating systems: Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10; Mac OS X 10.12 Sierra | Connectivity technology: USB 2.0 | Anti-Ghosting: yes

3.

An affordable wireless mouse & keyboard combo

Amazon

Logitech MK295 Wireless Mouse & Keyboard Combo

$30

Pros:

  • Wireless
  • Affordable and comes with a free wireless mouse
  • Durable and “virtually silent,” according to reviewers

Cons:

  • It’s relatively basic in terms of its features

If you don’t want to be tethered by cables, the Logitech wireless keyboard is quiet, lag-free, and even comes with a bonus wireless mouse, all for a great price. It connects with plug-and-play ease using a 2.4 GHz USB dongle, which responds quickly and accurately from up to 33 feet away. Plus, one fresh set of batteries lasts for up to 36 months in the keyboard (and 18 months with the mouse). The keyboard itself is spill-proof, features adjustable tilt legs, has eight shortcuts, and allows you to control the volume, media playback, and more at the touch of an on-device button. However, no anti-ghosting tech is noted.

One reviewer wrote: “In my search to find a quiet wireless keyboard I have purchased 4 other keyboards, which were fine, one of which I used for 7 months, but hands down this is my favorite. For starters, its size looks and feels like a normal plug in keyboard that come standard with my office computers, but this keyboard is in a league of its own. The keys are some of the softest I have ever experienced, it almost feels like your fingers glide across the keys, which is great since if you are typing for hours a day your hands and fingers do not get tired as they would with a normal keyboard. Secondly, there is absolutely zero noise as you are typing!”

Compatible operating systems: Windows 7, 8, 10, 11; Chrome OS | Connectivity technology: 2.4 GHz wireless USB dongle | Anti-Ghosting: unclear

4.

A quiet keyboard with a mechanical feel

Amazon

Redragon K509-RGB PC Gaming Keyboard

$24

Pros:

  • A tactile mechanical feel, but still relatively quiet and affordable
  • Made from waterproof ABS
  • Gaming-friendly features and customization

Cons:

  • Not the longest-lasting in terms of computerized components

For those who prefer the feel of a mechanical keyboard, but are looking for something cheaper and quieter, there’s this Redragon gaming keyboard. It is a membrane (and it’ll cost you less than $30), but its precision-engineered keycaps are responsive and clicky, while its solid ABS waterproof frame is more durable than most. Among its other noteworthy features, you’ll find 12 multimedia keys, a colorful backlight with six modes and four brightness levels, and anti-ghosting up to 25 keys at once.

One reviewer wrote: “I’ve had a number of cheap membrane keyboard over the years, and this is one of the best-feeling I’ve used. It has a great tactile bump and just the right amount of travel. The sound of the key presses, with the tactile feel, as well as the satin feel of the texture of the keys (very smooth and clean), all come together to give this keyboard a ‘velvety’ or ‘milky’ feel while typing.”

Compatible operating systems: Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10; Limited Mac OS support | Connectivity technology: USB | Anti-Ghosting: yes

5.

A comfortable keyboard for Windows

Amazon

Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard

$39

Pros:

  • Ergonomically designed for fast, comfortable typing
  • Built-in shortcut keys things like for multimedia, search, and emojis
  • Reliable speed and accuracy

Cons:

  • Not waterproof or backlit
  • Limited compatibility

An ergonomic keyboard usually has curved, split keys rather than rows that are straight across; this allows you to type while positioning your wrists at a more natural angle — and this Microsoft ergonomic keyboard is one of the best in the membrane category. It has an overall 4.5-star rating after more than 4,000 reviews, with some customers calling it a “life-saver” for those who type all day or experience wrist discomfort. It also has a cushioned palm rest, a raised center, and ample built-in shortcut keys for convenient everyday use. However, the brand doesn’t note if it has anti-ghosting technology.

One reviewer wrote: “Quiet and perfect size keyboard. My wrists were killing me using standard keyboard we had at work. After about a week of using this — all better!”

Compatible operating systems: Windows 10; limited for Windows 7 and 8.1 | Connectivity technology: USB | Anti-Ghosting: unclear

6.

The best Bluetooth membrane keyboard

Amazon

Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated Keyboard

$120

Pros:

  • Connects wirelessly to most devices (both Bluetooth and USB dongle)
  • Has automatic backlighting
  • Durable, ergonomic, quiet, and beautifully designed
  • One-year limited hardware warranty

Cons:

  • Expensive

Finally, if you’re willing to spend over $100 on a membrane keyboard, the Logitech MX Keys Advanced keyboard is worth the splurge for several reasons: For one, it connects wirelessly to up to three devices using Bluetooth or a dongle. For another, it’s USB-C rechargeable (for up to 10 days of use on a single charge) and compatible with almost all major operating systems. Last but not least, additional features include automatic backlighting that detects the presence of your hands, ergonomically designed keys that match the shape of your fingertips, a metal-plate construction for durability, and a typing experience that’s precise, responsive, tactile, and super quiet, all at the same time.

One reviewer wrote: “This keyboard cost way more than I had hoped to spend, but now that I have bought and returned at least 3 others, I realize it is absolutely a bargain. […] Number one, it is as close to silent as is humanly possible. […] Number two, it has a buttery smooth, responsive feel that requires only very light touches, and the keys travel a trivial distance without ANY sideways shimmying.”

Compatible operating systems: Windows 10, 11, or later; Linux; Chrome OS; MacOS; iPadOS; Android | Connectivity technology: Bluetooth or USB dongle | Anti-Ghosting: yes

Membrane keyboards vs.

mechanical: What’s the difference?

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SteelSeries Apex Pro
(Image credit: Windows Central)

Membrane keyboards vs. mechanical: What’s the difference?

Best answer: Membrane keyboards have a “mushy” feel, are more affordable, are quiet, and lack key rollover. Mechanical keyboards have smoother switch actuation, give better feedback, and have key rollover. However, they’re more expensive, and they’re often loud as well.

What are the differences between membrane and mechanical?

The main difference between membrane and mechanical keyboards is how they feel. Membrane keyboards have a distinct “mushy” type feel when you press down on their keys due to the rubber underneath them. Meanwhile, mechanical keyboards feature spring-loaded switches under the keycaps that actuate smoothly when you press them, responding with an audible “click” sound. Mechanical keyboards give better overall feedback to the user than membrane ones do when typing because of this design, but they’re also much louder compared to the relative silence of membrane keyboards.

Another thing that often separates membrane and mechanical boards is the presence of key rollover. This feature allows your keyboard to successfully detect several different key presses at the same time, which is invaluable while playing games that feature input combos (for example, crouch jumping). It’s also helpful if you’re a rapid typist. Without key rollover, keyboards will lag behind your inputs due to their limited processing. Mechanical keyboards always have key rollover, but membrane keyboards almost always lack full key rollover.

Membrane keyboards do have one edge, though: affordability. Membrane keyboards are much less expensive than mechanical ones across the board, making them great choices if you’re on a budget. That being said, there are also several affordable mechanical boards on the market as well, so membrane keyboards aren’t without competition in this space.

Which should you choose?

Source: Windows Central The Razer Cynosa Chroma membrane keyboard. (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)

Ultimately, the choice between membrane and mechanical should be based on what you need from your keyboard. If you spend a ton of time typing or you want something that’s great for gaming, you should go with a mechanical board. The feedback on mechanical keyboards is fantastic, and as long as you can deal with the noise (and the increased cost), you’ll have a much smoother typing and/or gaming experience thanks to the support for full key rollover. Our favorite mechanical keyboard is the SteelSeries Apex Pro, which has an excellent design, provides an amazing typing and gaming experiences, and comes with a cool wrist rest and RGB lighting to boot.

If you’re on a budget or you’re planning on typing only every once in a while, a membrane keyboard is the way to go. They’re more affordable and still provide a good typing experience, although the lack of key rollover makes them poor choices if you type fast or play games. One of our favorite membrane keyboards is the Razer Cynosa Chroma, which features a solid design, cool lights, and 10-key rollover that’s limited compared to what mechanical keyboards offer, but still helpful nonetheless.

If neither of these keyboards is right for you, make sure to check out our roundup of the best keyboards and best gaming keyboards for more options.

Best mechanical

SteelSeries Apex Pro

Perfect for typists and gamers

The SteelSeries Apex Pro combines excellent design with an awesome aesthetic and nice bonuses like a wrist rest, making it our favorite mechanical keyboard available.

Best membrane

Razer Cynosa Chroma

An amazing budget option

The Razer Cynosa Chroma may not be as performant as mechanical options, but it’s still a great keyboard — especially when you consider its low price.

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Brendan Lowry is a Windows Central writer and Oakland University graduate with a burning passion for video games, of which he’s been an avid fan since childhood. You’ll find him doing reviews, editorials, and general coverage on everything Xbox and PC. Follow him on Twitter.

Keyboard types: mechanical, membrane, scissor

Today it is difficult to imagine using a computer without a keyboard. The presence of a screen input device cannot serve as a full replacement for it. For the correct choice of the desired device, you should focus on the positive and negative points, as well as take into account a number of additional parameters.

What are the keyboards

Modern keyboards are represented by a wide selection of models: touch, folding, wireless, backlit, endowed with rich functionality, gaming, office. All devices (besides projection and touch) have a single common feature – the type of switches. We are talking about a mechanism, when triggered, the keyboard detects the pressed key and transmits the desired signal to the system. The switches are of various types, they provide the convenience of typing, determine the size of the keys and the features of a particular keyboard.

Mechanical keyboards

The distant ancestor of the mechanical keyboard can be considered a typewriter, from which it adopted many design features.

The operation of each key is controlled by a separate switch with a special mechanism that creates a characteristic click when pressed. Mechanical gaming keyboards have a complex structure, which is reflected in their cost.

Principle of operation

The opening of the contacts located inside the switches occurs mechanically. The presence of a metal spring provides a soft return of the key to its original position. Switches are characterized by quick response and do not require full pressure on the button. The moment of activation of pressing is felt tactile, which provides better control and requires less effort during typing.

The most important element of a mechanical keyboard, which distinguishes it from other types, are switches (switches). They are of three types:

  1. Linear. Soft switches that create the same and uniform force along the entire length of the stroke when pressed. Relevant among gamers.
  2. Tactile. The pressing force increases by the moment of operation, provides a clear tactile response. A popular option for switches when working with text.
  3. Snap. They have a tactile and audible response, bringing the PC keyboard closer to a typewriter.

All switches have different pressing force, stroke length, sound and tactile feedback. A variety of options allows you to fine-tune the desired parameters of the input device and get the selected preferences in the work. For more personalization, you can combine different types of switches in one keyboard.

Mechanical keyboards provide fast, accurate typing. This is ideal for long term work. But they also have their advantages and disadvantages.

Pros
  • Tactile feedback. The key advantage of “mechanics”. Each keystroke is effortless and has a distinct feel. This parameter is especially relevant for fast typing and during games, when you need to press the keys often and quickly.
  • Smooth, soft running. When entering, it is not necessary to completely sink the buttons, just a slight pressure or light touch is enough. This gives less stress on the hands and reduces their fatigue.
  • Registration of parallel clicks. All mechanical keyboards have support for simultaneous pressing of six buttons, some models are supplemented by the Key Rollover function with registration of an unlimited number of clicks. The parameter is of particular importance for gamers.
  • Durability of use. The design, high-quality materials significantly reduce the wear and tear of the device.
  • Heavy weight. The use of metal frames in the design, a large number of parts increase the mass of the device, while excluding its accidental shift on the table.
  • Easy maintenance. Removable keycaps make it easy to disassemble the device for cleaning.
Cons
  • High cost. The use of expensive switches and components in the design increases the price of the product.
  • Noise during operation. Depending on the type of switches chosen, the volume of the sounds emitted by the keyboard changes, but even the quietest switches work louder than standard membrane counterparts.
  • Heavy weight. In addition to the positive moment with immobility on the table, a significant mass complicates the carrying of the device.

Membrane keyboards

Membrane-type input devices are quite popular, due to the simplicity of their design and affordable price. The internal structure of the device is represented by a three-layer plate. Two layers have conductive paths, the third is responsible for their separation. In places where there are buttons, cutouts are provided on the separating plates, which ensures contact between the contacts when the buttons are pressed. The presence of a silicone substrate guarantees an accurate hit, due to its rounded shape, the button returns to its original position after a click.

Membrane keyboards are quiet. There are no spring switches in their design, a rubber gasket is used as shock protection. The soft material absorbs the main noise, which, combined with the low key travel, allows for almost complete silence.

Tactile feedback is considered the weak side of membrane keyboards. For the keys to work, they must be pressed all the way and with great effort, compared with a mechanical device. The simplest models are not able to handle the simultaneous pressing of more than three buttons. For more expensive devices, this number is increased to six keys. The reason lies in the design features of the device, which is especially noticeable during speed dialing, when there is a “click” and the pressing of the button is not activated.

Membrane models are lighter than mechanical ones. They can easily be moved on the table or taken with you. Most models are splash and dirt resistant.

Over time, membrane keyboards lose their original presentable state, a “fatigue effect” is observed. With daily intensive use of the device for typing, the effect will make itself felt earlier. The silicone or rubber gasket wears out over time, the quality of pressing decreases, which reduces the response.

Pros
  • Clear tactile feedback. Despite the lack of physical feedback like “mechanics”, separate models of the membrane type are able to provide a similar tactile response.
  • Quiet operation. One of the advantages of membrane devices is silent operation even when pressing the keys intensively. Such models will be an excellent choice for offices equipped in the open space style, where the noise level should be kept to a minimum. This is a big plus when conducting a conference call with colleagues or clients – when writing notes on a mechanical keyboard located next to the microphone, it will turn into a lot of noise for the other participants in the conversation.
  • Variety of models. Membrane devices are represented by a variety of design options, which allows you to choose the right device for any user.
  • Attractive price. The cost of input devices with a membrane design is lower due to the production of readily available materials.
  • Compact dimensions and low weight. The portability of the models makes it easy to take them with you on trips and travels. In case of loss or damage, they are easier and cheaper to replace with new ones.
Cons

Membrane devices are not for everyone, especially when prioritizing reliability and physical response.

  • Less strength. Despite the flexibility of the membranes, their service life is much shorter than that of components from a mechanical keyboard.
  • Difficulties with parts replacement. If one component fails, the entire keyboard needs to be replaced.
  • Reduced service life. The service life of devices is shorter due to the lower reliability of the device.

Scissor keypads

Scissor-type input devices are a hybrid of mechanical and membrane devices. On the buttons of such a keyboard there are special devices that resemble classical models, but with some difference – the contact is applied to a special rod (rod), and not to an elastic membrane.

The keys are moved by a simple mechanism in the form of crossed plates connected to each other in the middle by a movable loop. In appearance, the device looks like scissors, which determined its name.

In terms of actuation force, scissor models are similar to mechanical ones, only they have silicone caps. Depending on the brand, it is 25-100 g / force, the average is 60-80 g / force.

The design shortens the key travel. Pressing in such keyboards is soft, which provides the convenience of typing large text arrays of information. The service life is twice as long as that of membrane models – for each key, the resource is about 10 million clicks.

Pros:

  • Middle price segment.
  • Good tactile feedback for fast typing.
  • Durability similar to mechanical models.
  • Low noise during operation.

Cons:

  • Significant dimensions by analogy with mechanical models – not every equipment looks harmoniously complete with such an information input device.
  • Sensitive to dirt and moisture ingress.

Important features for selection of keypads

The choice of input device is as important as the choice of the computer itself and other peripherals. In addition to the key mechanism, the user must decide on a considerable number of technical parameters of the keyboard. The most significant are:

  1. Purpose of the device. First, it is worth designating the main range of tasks, as well as the devices to which the keyboard is planned to be connected. Equipment used for typing or gaming will have different characteristics.
  2. Interface, connection type. A wireless device will be convenient in the absence of a permanent workplace or the need to connect the keyboard to the TV. Wired models have a faster response, do not require charging, and eliminate delay, which is especially important for gamers.
  3. Form factor. Features of the organization of the workspace allow you to choose a full-sized, compact device or a separate digital unit.
  4. Additional functions. Improved moisture protection, multiple USB ports and other useful features will make using the keyboard more convenient.

Most users, especially gamers, pay attention to the presence of a backlit keyboard. The glow of the buttons can make it easier to work in the dark, models with backlit keys have a more attractive look than their counterparts without LEDs in the design. For input devices, a single-color, multi-color RGB backlight is provided, which supports changing the colors of the glow, various dynamic effects. Popular devices are also used, in which the backlight is provided only for some buttons.

For office workers, secretaries and those who sometimes play standard computer games, a membrane keyboard will be the best choice. Its inexpensive price makes the device available to the public, but at the same time provides a sufficient resource of use.

Scissor models, which require less effort to actuate the buttons, are more suitable for those whose professional activity is associated with typing a large amount of text: copywriters, typists and those who work daily at a PC, typing a considerable amount of text information. Working with a scissor keyboard creates less stress on the hands compared to a mechanical one.

Cybersportsmen, avid gamers and serious video gamers prefer mechanical devices because of the great variability in designs and the possibility of customizing it.

How to choose a mechanical keyboard for a programmer or gamer / Habr

For the most part, mechanical keyboards are superior to membrane keyboards in several ways. But the choice of the keyboard is not limited to cutting off all instances of the “membrane” class. Mechanical keyboards are also very different. And how do you find the one and only?

First, we will quickly recall how these two basic classes of keyboards differ, and then we will gradually come to the answer to the question posed.

1. Number of rollovers (KRO): Membrane keyboards typically have 2 (2KRO), 3 (3KRO) or 6 (6KRO). Mechanical ones have no such restrictions at all (NKRO). It doesn’t matter how many keys you press at the same time: the computer will receive and process the appropriate signals from each of them.

Mechanical keyboards are ideal for programmers and other professionals who actively use hotkeys in various combinations. There are those who need a good keyboard not only for work – gamers. Other users may limit themselves to membrane keyboards.

2. Keyfeel : Membrane keyboards have keycaps above rubber caps with a solid polymer membrane underneath. Unlike membrane keyboards, all keys of mechanical keyboards are equipped with individual switches (which consist of a spring and a rod). Most users like the second option: it feels more pleasant to type.

A good mechanical keyboard can help combat fatigue from prolonged typing. If you type a lot, it’s better not to skimp on the keyboard.

3. Lifespan : Conventional membrane keyboards are rated for 5 million keystrokes. Mechanical keyboards can survive 50 million keystrokes. If, for example, you type for 6 hours (and 1 hour is 60 minutes) a day and make 30 keystrokes per minute, then the life of a mechanical keyboard will be almost 12 years: 50 million / 365 / (6 * 60 * 30) . According to more skeptical estimates – from 3 to 5 years.

More about switches

When choosing a mechanical keyboard, it is very important to pay attention to the switches. The simplest thing to note is that they differ in color. The most common on the Russian market are black, brown, blue and green.

Consider the most important technical characteristics of the switches and their types.

Actuation force

The actuation force (measured in grams) is the level of force that must be applied to make a mechanical switch actuate. It is usually expressed in grams for convenience. Different switch designs have different meanings for this parameter. Heavier switches require more force to push.

Stroke

The key travel is the distance it travels from the moment it is pressed to the moment it is actuated. By the way, laptop keyboards have a shorter stroke length than standard standalone desktop keyboards. Typically, the travel length of desktop keyboards varies from 3mm to 4mm.

Switch types

There are three types of switches – linear, tactile and clicky.

Click switch: as you might guess, these switches make a specific click (“click”) after pressing the keys. It is important to understand that they sound much louder than other mechanical switches. If you are not working alone, it can annoy those around you. Perhaps in this case, such a keyboard will not suit you.

Tactile switch: tactile switches immediately before pressing the key to the stop make it feel like the key travel slows down a bit – as if it overcomes some kind of obstacle (there is a “tactile push”). Such switches, as well as keyboards equipped with them, are called tactile.

Linear Switch / Even Actuation Switch : Linear switch key travel is very smooth and even. It goes smoothly and without a click. The resistance when pressed slightly increases just before reaching the bottom. Many gamers love keyboards with these switches because they want predictable and preferably fast response times.

Cherry MX switches

The Cherry MX brand has become synonymous with quality in the mechanical keyboard switch market. Therefore, here we consider the main types of switches from this manufacturer.

Black

This is a linear switch with a very smooth action and quiet sound. Its actuation force reaches 60 grams. That is, it requires more effort than the MX Brown and MX Blue (which are discussed below). Cherry MX Black appeals to gamers – especially those who like to play real-time strategy or shooters.

Red

Similar to Cherry MX Black: also linear and quiet (muffles the sound of plastic hitting plastic both when the button is pressed and when it is released). Red differs from Black in reduced actuation force (45 grams). Cherry MX Red is also a frequent choice for gamers.

Blue

It makes a click like a typewriter. However, this click is not so loud and nasty. This feature allows you to more clearly feel the actuation point of the switch. However, the keys are light enough to press, so the fingers don’t get tired when typing.

Brown

They are considered universal switches: quiet enough, because there is no click, but at the same time the actuation point is felt quite well (it is easy to determine when it is time to release the key without squeezing it completely). This feature will please those who work a lot with text. But if you don’t know exactly what you want, feel free to take Cherry MX Brown.

How to make a final decision?

Well, you already understood at the beginning that you need to take a mechanical keyboard. Next, we realized that you can choose one of three types of switches. But if you still don’t have enough information to make a decision, consider what more you could want from a keyboard. How important is this to you personally?

Think three extras

Multimedia keys: It’s important for someone to have separate keys for simple things like adjusting the volume. It also depends on personal preference.

Ergonomic design: The left and right sides of the keyboard are separated to form an angle that matches the natural hand position. It seems to some that this is exactly what a real ergonomic design should be.

Wrist rest: some users may feel uncomfortable when entering text without it. It depends on personal needs.

Run the final experiment

The pros and cons described in this article and, moreover, the recommendations do not claim to be the ultimate truth. For different users, their own experience may be more important. This is especially important when it comes to choosing switches.