Ever wonder what all the hype is about mechanical keyboards? If you have no idea what a mechanical keyboard is, you might remember the old stock IBM keyboard. Well, that clicky keyed keyboard that makes so much noise is actually not just a thing of the past anymore. Do you need a mechanical keyboard or is a standard one good enough? We asked this question to tech enthusiasts, gamers, and tech professionals to gain a perspective of what the driving force behind this renewed interest is. Advancements in various types of gaming and technology have trended alongside the appealing factors for use of mechanical keyboards. As far as keyboards go, the typing experience is a tremendous improvement with the mechanical counterpart. The layout is customizable and has segued in for outside the box ergonomic designs. Mechanical keyboards are now available in many layouts, designs, and sizes. Some having ergonomic impacts as well. The diversity creates a tailored user experience that are not normally possible. Mechanical keyboards generally have a higher actuation force which is the pressure for keystroke actuation. This assists to reduce the risk of accidental key strikes. Also, the tactile feedback offered by mechanical switches helps users type more efficiently. Keyboard users that spend prolonged periods of time typing, as it can help to reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries (RSI). Since also key travel distance for mechanical keyboards are typically longer throw compared with membrane keyboards, this provides less chance of bottoming out and additional force on the structures of the finger. The design of mechanical keyboard helps reduce the risk of an RSI and helps one type at a faster rate which is a win. The last reason people usually tend to bring up mechanical keyboards is that they provide more durability and longevity compared to the standard membrane keyboard. This is because keyboards are relatively inexpensive and don't break down too often. Mechanical keyboards are more durable because they are constructed with individual mechanical switches for each key, unlike membrane keyboards, which have a thin layer of rubber or silicone between the contact between the keys and the circuit board. Mechanical switches are composed of a metal spring and a stem which together makes up a key stroke. The end result is greater tactile feedback when typing. The reason the keyboard lasts longer, is because their switches are rated for ten times the number of keystrokes that a membrane switch is rated for. If one switch goes back, it's not the end of the life of that keyboard since each of the individual switches in a mechanical keyboard is replaceable. The durable makeup of mechanical keyboards makes them a popular among users who go for reliability. Mechanical keyboards also help prevent key rollover which helps put an end to multiple simultaneous keystrokes. The individual switches used in mechanical keyboards allows independent key actuation which means that each key press is registered accurately even when typing at a rapid rate or seemingly the same time. The old keyboards are back and the interest in mechanical keyboards is for great reasons including greater ergonomics, efficiency, and customization compared to the standard membrane keyboards. If you want to learn more about keyboards, contact an ergonomic specialist with Ergobility today!