Whether it is for typing articles, coding programs, utilizing computer shortcuts, or playing your favorite games, you cannot neglect the importance of a keyboard when it comes to operating a computer.

In this article, we will be looking at the various types of keyboards and discuss their advantages and disadvantages. So, if you are looking for a keyboard to switch to or want to know more about the one you are already using, we urge you to continue reading.

The types of keyboards we will be looking at in this article are:

• Mechanical
• Membrane
• Ergonomic
• Gaming

Mechanical Keyboards

Here are your everyday keyboards. Everyone should have seen this type at least once: This keyboard is what we all started with. One of the best features of these keyboards is their accuracy.

Single keystrokes are easily recognized. Due to their inbuilt springs that support resistance, after pressing a key, it bounces back, avoiding one key to be repeatedly pressed.

These keyboards are also very durable and recommended if you do heavy typing work.

Advantages

• Highly durable.
• Enable faster typing speed.
• High accuracy.

Disadvantages

• Makes noise while using.
• Slightly expensive.

Membrane Keyboards

These keyboards are designed for typing convenience; however, they are not as accurate as mechanical keyboards. They require less pressure to register keystrokes due to elastic shells supporting the keys. The material for these shells can be silicone or rubber. Input is registered by conductive traces in the build.

Advantages

• Highly affordable.
• No noise during usage.

Disadvantages

• Less typing accuracy.

Ergonomic Keyboards

Ergonomic Keyboards are built for convenience and ease. Their functionality is similar to that of a regular mechanical keyboard. However, their major advantage roots in their design — they are designed in such a way that they minimize the strain your body gets from long hours of typing.

The two primary designs of ergonomic keyboards are the contoured and split designs.

The contoured design features a slightly raised shape and facilitates typing by prompting natural hand and wrist movements.

As for the split design, the keys are segmented or split into two or three sections, depending on the model.

Advantages

• It is very comfortable to use.
• It helps with fatigue and strain from long periods of typing.

Disadvantages

• It requires some time to get used to it.

Gaming Keyboards

Gaming keyboards are specially designed with the mind of enhancing your gaming experience. They are usually mechanical keyboards with a few extra features.

Firstly, they allow you to press up to four keys at once, without cancelling the keystrokes. In other words, you can perform complex commands easily as these keyboards can register multiple keys at once.

Many gaming keyboards can be reprogrammed to carry out multiple functions when you press one key. Some keyboards also have additional keys aside from the standard layout to define hotkeys.

Finally, the keyboards often come with backlit keys — mostly looking cool in the dark…

Advantages

• Backlit with LED.
• A higher number of recognized simultaneous keystrokes.
• Single keys that are capable of performing multiple functions.

Disadvantages

• Most expensive.