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Her work has appeared in Mashable, TechRadar, and many more publications. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on February 21, 2022 Reviewed by Kayla Dube Reviewed by
Kayla Dube J.
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Everette Light Career Center Kayla Dube has 4+ years' experience in videography and filmmaking. She frequently works in production with indie film companies. lifewire's editorial guidelines Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Accessories & Hardware Keyboards & Mice The Ultimate Guide to Keyboard Shortcuts The Ultimate Guide to Keyboards The Ultimate Guide to Computer Mice The Quick Guide to Webcams Monitors Cards HDD & SSD Printers & Scanners Raspberry Pi
What to Know
A mechanical keyboard uses switches rather than a membrane to register keystrokes.Look for a louder and more 'clicky' keyboard sound to identify if it's a mechanical keyboard.Lift a keycap off the keyboard to see if there is a switch underneath it.
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This article teaches you to distinguish between a regular and mechanical keyboard.
How Can You Tell if a Keyboard Is Mechanical or Membrane
There are a few different ways to tell if a keyboard is mechanical or membrane. Some are simpler than others.
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Here's a look at the best method to check if a keyboard is membrane or mechanical-based.
On your keyboard, tap the key and see how loud it sounds. If it's pretty loud and clicky, it's almost certainly a mechanical keyboard.
Alternatively, carefully lift one of the keys from the keyboard and check if there is a switch underneath the key. If there is, it's a mechanical keyboard.
If you've recently purchased the keyboard, check the packaging and see if it states anything about being a mechanical keyboard.
On your keyboard, tap the key and see how loud it sounds. If it's pretty loud and clicky, it's almost certainly a mechanical keyboard.
Alternatively, carefully lift one of the keys from the keyboard and check if there is a switch underneath the key. If there is, it's a mechanical keyboard.
If you've recently purchased the keyboard, check the packaging and see if it states anything about being a mechanical keyboard.
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If it doesn't, it's a 'regular' membrane-based keyboard.
Mechanical keyboards are more tactile. Thanks to how mechanical keyboard switches feel, they feel more responsive and more tactile every time you tap a key. Mechanical keyboards are louder.
What Do Mechanical Keyboards Feel Like
A mechanical keyboard generally feels a lot different from a membrane-based keyboard. Here's a look at what to expect from the feeling of a mechanical keyboard.Mechanical keyboards are more tactile. Thanks to how mechanical keyboard switches feel, they feel more responsive and more tactile every time you tap a key. Mechanical keyboards are louder.
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A mechanical keyboard tends to make a lot more noise than a regular one because of the switches involved. You'll (potentially) make fewer mistakes. Due to how a mechanical keyboard feels, you gain better typing feedback which means you might be more accurate and less prone to errors. More durable.
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A mechanical keyboard feels heavier than a regular one which means it's more durable and can withstand a few knocks.
They sound different.
What Is the Difference Between a Regular and Mechanical Keyboard
A regular keyboard and a mechanical keyboard have several differences. It's helpful to know how they differ before making a purchase. Here's what to expect.They sound different.
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A regular keyboard is much quieter than a mechanical one and appropriate for an open office or a more peaceful working environment.They're priced differently. Membrane or regular keyboards tend to be much cheaper than a mechanical ones, although they don't have as long a lifespan. Mechanical keyboards are sturdier.
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Mechanical keyboards are generally sturdier and more durable, which will last users longer. Mechanical keyboards have removable parts. It's possible to remove a mechanical keyboard's keycaps and customize them.
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A membrane-based one doesn't offer this option.
A mechanical keyboard is more durable than a regular keyboard, so it feels different to the touch immediately. It's generally heavier and feels more substantial. These keyboards are also more expensive than regular ones, making it easier to identify them before purchasing.
FAQ How do I clean a mechanical keyboard?
What Is Considered Mechanical Keyboard
A mechanical keyboard is any keyboard that uses switches instead of a membrane to allow you to perform keystrokes.A mechanical keyboard is more durable than a regular keyboard, so it feels different to the touch immediately. It's generally heavier and feels more substantial. These keyboards are also more expensive than regular ones, making it easier to identify them before purchasing.
FAQ How do I clean a mechanical keyboard?
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Disconnect your keyboard, turn it upside down, and gently shake loose debris to clean a mechanical keyboard. Use compressed air and a small handheld vacuum to dislodge debris under the keycaps.
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Use a keycap puller tool to remove the keycaps and then use the compressed air inside the switch area. Use a cloth with a gentle cleaning solution to wipe inside the switch area gently. How do I build a mechanical keyboard?
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To build a custom mechanical keyboard, decide on the keyboard size you want and choose the features you want, including RGB lighting, QMK firmware, and USB port. Go to an online store to select and buy the parts you wish (keyboard case, plate, circuit board, stabilizer, switches, and keycaps).
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You'll also need tools like a soldering iron, a solder sucker, solder wire, and a keycap puller. For more information, visit a DIY website.
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How do I fix sticky keys on a mechanical keyboard? If you have sticky keys on your mechanical keyboard due to dust and debris, shake out the keyboard gently.
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Remove the affected keycaps and use compressed air to blow out the switch area or clean the area with a nylon brush. If all else fails, replace the switch to fix the issue.
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