Keyboards! Love them or hate them, they are a necessity to the modern human; they are the only way to interface with computers and unlock their power. However, there are many different types of keyboards with different switches or mechanisms, powering them. Most people, unfortunately, don’t know the differences between each switch and are often confused about the difference between a membrane keyboard and a Hall effect keyboard (whatever that is). People often make their choice by buying the most economical option (a big mistake) and are often left with an unsatisfactory keyboard that is probably bullied on every keyboard subreddit. Thankfully, I have used every type of keyboard and can guide you through the differences and the advantages of each major type of keyboard.

Membrane

A membrane keyboard is the second newest keyboard type on the list. It has two special quirks: the first quirk is that the keyboard is resistant to any sort of debris, and the second quirk is that the keyboard is mostly quiet due to its internal mechanism. The internal mechanism of the keyboard is made out of a membrane. This membrane is made out of two layers, which are kept separate from one another. When a key is pressed down, the membrane is shoved together. Once they are connected, an electrical circuit is complete and a signal alerting to the key’s activation is emitted. That signal is then transmitted either wirelessly or via cable to a computer, where it is converted into a key input. Their design allows them to be fitted in small spaces, leading to membrane keyboards being found anywhere, from cash registers to laptops. They’re also cheaper to produce when compared to other options due to many different factors, including their simplicity. 

As previously mentioned, the keyboard is also water and dust-resistant and is very quiet due to its rubber mechanism. However, all of these factors will not save it from being one of the worst types of keyboards to buy, especially if you are a gamer. First of all, membrane keyboards usually feel very mushy when compared to other options, while they’re often good for typing speed, typing feels unsatisfactory. Second of all, this is the biggest factor: ghosting. Ghosting is something most commonly found in cheap keyboards, mostly membrane, that plagues gamers and fast typers; a ghost is when multiple keys are left jumbled on one wire, which leads to the keyboard's processor getting confused and sending a random keypress to the computer. Most high-end keyboards have NKRO (which essentially means no ghosting) built in to prevent this problem, but most membrane keyboards are not designed for this feature. However, considering these flaws, membrane keyboards can still be a great option for people who prioritize typing or enjoy the quiet typing experience. These keyboards often cost below fifty dollars.

Mechanical

Mechanical keyboards are a different story. A mechanical keyboard functions through a complex mechanism where a plastic cross with a copper contact presses onto another copper contact. This entire mechanism is held together by a spring. This spring is the reason why mechanical keyboards are considered to be the holy grail of keyboards. The benefits of mechanical keyboards include: repairability, the design of the keyboard allows every piece to be easily disassembled and reassembled; switch customization, every “switch” or spring can be replaced and customized either through replacement or by lubing or other modifications; and personal customization, every key can be replaced with alternatives. There are some negatives; however, the keyboard mechanism leads to it being incredibly clacky and lacking the waterproof advantage. Another factor to consider is that ghosting is still around, but is less evident. Mechanical keyboards are usually best for gaming and satisfactory typing. Expect a mechanical keyboard to cost more than thirty dollars but be prepared to spend more than two hundred for a high quality custom keyboard.