Keyboards look alike from above, but they feel very different underneath. The choice between mechanical and membrane decides how every keystroke feels. Here is how to pick.
Mechanical vs membrane at a glance
| Mechanical | Membrane | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | A separate switch under each key | A rubber dome sheet under all the keys |
| Feel | Crisp and consistent, varies by switch | Softer and more cushioned |
| Noise | Louder, depending on the switch | Quieter |
| Lifespan | Long. Makers rate their switches highly | Shorter. Domes wear |
| Repairs | Switches and keycaps can often be replaced | Usually the whole board |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
Switch types
- Linear: smooth, with no bump. Popular for fast, repeated presses in games.
- Tactile: a small bump when the key registers. Good if you also type a lot.
- Clicky: a bump and an audible click. Satisfying, but loud in a shared room.
If you can, try a few before you buy. Switch colours vary by brand, so read the description rather than trusting the colour alone.
Features that help in games
- Anti-ghosting or n-key rollover: the keyboard registers several keys pressed together.
- Layout size: full-size boards have a number pad. Tenkeyless (TKL) boards drop it to free mouse space. Compact 60 percent boards drop more, including the arrow keys.
- Keycaps: thicker PBT keycaps resist shine and wear better than thin ABS ones.
- Wired or wireless: wired is simplest. Wireless boards are convenient, but they need charging.
- Backlight and software: nice to have, not essential.
Which should you buy?
If you game and type a lot, and can afford it, a mechanical keyboard is the better long-term choice. If you share a room, need a quiet keyboard or have a tight budget, a good membrane board is fine. The best keyboard is the one whose layout and key feel suit you.
Noise and shared rooms
Sound is the thing people forget. Clicky switches are loud enough to carry through a call or a sleeping household. If you play late, or share a room, choose linear or quiet tactile switches, or a membrane board. You can also add rubber rings under the keycaps on some mechanical boards to soften the bottom-out sound.
Checking a used keyboard
- Press every key, including the function and media keys. Nothing should stick, chatter or fail to register.
- Check the keycaps for shine, cracks and missing legends.
- Test the cable, the USB connector and any wireless dongle.
- Type for a minute on a text field to spot double presses.
Buying from us
Keyboards are tested and inspected before they are listed, with the brand, model, specs and what is in the box shown on the product page. Browse keyboards and pair one with the right mouse: read how to choose a gaming mouse. Delivery starts at $5 in local areas and $6 in remote areas. See delivery and payment.