Mechanical keyboards are popular among gamers, computer enthusiasts, and people who type a lot because they offer a more responsive and tactile typing experience than traditional membrane keyboards.
But, are mechanical keyboards durable? Mechanical keyboards use individual mechanical switches for each key, which makes them more durable than traditional keyboards. Most mechanical keyboards have a lifespan of 50 million keystrokes, compared to 5 million keystrokes for traditional keyboards.
There are many factors that can affect the durability of a mechanical keyboard, such as how often it is used, and the type of materials used. Overall, mechanical keyboards are generally very durable.
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What are Mechanical Keyboards?
Mechanical keyboards are keyboards that use mechanical switches to register key presses. They tend to have a longer life than membrane keyboards and often offer better gaming performance.
Mechanical keyboards come in a variety of layouts, switch types, and sizes.
The most popular type of switch is the Cherry MX switch, which comes in several variants such as Red, Blue, Brown, Black, and Clear. Each type of switch has its own unique feel and sound when pressed.
How long do mechanical keyboards last?
Mechanical keyboards are known for their durability and long life spans. But just how long do they actually last?
An average mechanical keyboard would last for 10-15 years on moderate usage daily.
The number of years depends on the factors like switch type, switch brand, and amount of usage per day.
Why are mechanical keyboards durable?
A mechanical keyboard is a typewriter-style keyboard that uses individual mechanical switches to register key presses.
Compared to the membrane keyboards used in most computers, a mechanical keyboard gives a more responsive feel and is often said to be more durable.
Here are the reasons that make mechanical keyboards more durable:
#1. High-Quality Mechanical Switches:
Mechanical keyboards have high-quality mechanical switches to operate them. These switches last long and do not wear off with heavy usage.
They are also very easy to repair, which means that keyboard enthusiasts can keep their keyboards in working condition for a very long time.
In addition, mechanical switches offer a much better typing experience than traditional rubber dome switches.
#2. Quality Keycaps:
Keycaps are the plastic pieces that are attached to the top of the keys on a keyboard. They are important because they protect the key switches from dirt and dust, and they also help to provide a better typing experience.
Mechanical Keyboards use high-quality keycaps on top of the mechanical switches generally made of either ABS or PBT plastic.
The keycaps can withstand more wear and tear. In addition, many mechanical keyboards offer replaceable keycaps, so you can always keep your keyboard in good condition.
#3. Durable Chassis/Keyboard Base:
One of the reasons mechanical keyboards are so durable is that they have a durable chassis keyboard base.
This base is made from a solid piece of metal or plastic that helps to reinforce the keyboard and protect its internal components. They are also made of metal like Aluminum which protects them from accidental drops.
In addition, this base also helps to keep the keyboard stable, which can be important for gaming or other tasks that require precise keystrokes.
Mechanical vs membrane keyboard in Durability
Mechanical keyboards are often considered more durable than membrane keyboards. Membrane keyboards are more likely to wear out over time, whereas mechanical keyboards can last for years without any problems.
This is because mechanical keyboards have individual switches for each key, while membrane keyboards use one single layer of rubber which is the membrane layer to activate the keys.
Also, the mechanical keyboards can be repaired easily and you can change a particular switch that fails to work. In the case of a membrane keyboard, on switch damage, the entire membrane layer needs to be changed.
Also, the membrane keyboards wear out quickly and are not at all durable for heavy usage.
Are mechanical keyboard switches durable?
Mechanical keyboard switches are known for their durability. They last longer than traditional membrane switches. However, even they are not immune to failure. In fact, a switch can fail for a number of reasons.
One reason a switch might fail is due to dirt and dust getting inside the mechanism. This can cause the key to stick or stop working altogether.
Another reason a switch might fail is because of wear and tear. Over time, the metal contacts inside the switch can become pitted, which will cause the key to not register correctly.
The good news is that most mechanical keyboard switches are easy to replace. So, if one of your switches fails, you can simply replace it with a new one. Just be sure to research which switches are compatible with your keyboard first.
You can solder them back to make the keyboard work again. Also, if you already have hot-swappable ones, then you can easily swap with a new switch and you can skip the soldering part.
Are mechanical keyboards more reliable than Membrane?
Mechanical keyboards are more reliable than membrane keyboards.
Membrane keyboards use a rubber dome as a key switch, which can wear out over time. Mechanical keyboards use a switch made of metal and plastic, which is more durable and lasts longer.
However, the reliability does come at an additional cost. The membrane keyboards are much cheaper. Considering the overall reliability-to-cost ratio, the mechanical keyboards lead ahead for gaming and typing usage.
You may consider checking the comparison of mechanical vs membrane keyboards here.
Do the mechanical keyboard keys wear out?
Mechanical keyboard keys hardly wear out if proper care is taken. Lubing them and cleaning them keep them in good shape.
Even after several years of usage, you will find your mechanical keyboard switches working nearly as if it was new.
Conclusion
Let’s conclude the post on whether mechanical keyboards are durable!
Mechanical keyboards are becoming more and more popular, as they offer a better typing experience than traditional keyboards.
So, we came to know that mechanical keyboards are durable but still, there are things to consider a few disadvantages of mechanical keyboards.
The biggest issue with mechanical keyboards is that many of them are quite loud. This can be a problem for people who work in an office setting or anyone who wants to use their computer in a quiet environment.
The noise generated by the keys can also start to wear on your ears over time. You need to check for a silent linear switch or tactile switch mechanical keyboard if you desire noise from your mechanical keyboard to be less.
I hope you enjoyed reading the post.
I’m Anirban Saha, Founder & Editor of TechBullish. With a B.Tech in Electronics and Communication Engineering, and 5+ years of experience as a software developer, I have expertise in electronics, software development, gadgets, and computer peripherals. I love sharing my knowledge through informational articles, how-to guides, and troubleshooting tips for Peripherals, Smart TVs, Streaming Solutions, and more here. Check Anirban’s Crunchbase Profile here.
