History of Mechanical Keyboards
Mechanical keyboards have been around since the early days of personal computing in the 1970s and 1980s. Brands like IBM, Cherry, and Alps dominated the keyboard market during this era and incorporated mechanical keyswitch designs into their products. These early mechanical keyboards were rugged, built to last, and offered users significant tactile feedback compared to the mushy feel of early rubber dome keyboards.
As personal computers became more mainstream in the 1990s, manufacturers shifted away from mechanical designs in favor of cheaper rubber dome keyboards that were seen as good enough for most users. This allowed computers to be made thinner and more affordable for mass adoption. Through the 2000s, mechanical keyboards fell out of favor, mostly being used by data entry professionals that required fast, accurate typing over long periods.
Return of the Mechanical Keyboard
In the late 2000s, vintage Mechanical Keyboards from the 1980s began attracting collectors within niche technology communities online. Users appreciated the durability and superior tactile sensation over rubber dome switches. Several small specialty keyboard makers emerged to serve this growing interest, offering new mechanical keyboards with customized switches, programmability, and aesthetic finishes.
Mainstream Recognition
Major gaming peripheral makers like Corsair, Razer, and Logitech took notice of the growing enthusiast trend and began incorporating mechanical switches into their high-end gaming keyboards around 2010. Gamers appreciated mechanical keyboards for their fast actuation, tactile feedback, and durability suited for long gameplay sessions.
The appeal of mechanical keyboards soon spread beyond gaming. Professionals that performed large amounts of typing like programmers, writers, and data workers soon recognized the benefits. Proper typing technique is easier to develop on mechanical keyboards due to tactile feedback, helping to prevent injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome over time.
As costs came down due to higher production volume, mechanical keyboards grew much more accessible to average consumers in the late 2010s. Large companies like Das Keyboard and Ducky offered reliable pre-built options at affordable price points. Custom keyboard design communities on sites like Reddit also fueled interest, with users sharing stunning custom builds.
Mechanical Key Switch Varieties
Just as there are many varieties of mechanical switches for locks and other devices, there is a wide range of options for mechanical keyboard switches as well. Here are the most common switch types available:
Cherry MX Red (Linear) - A light, smooth stroke without tactile bumps. Red switches are best for fast, gaming focused typing.
Cherry MX Blue (Clicky) - A tactile bump and audible "click" at the actuation point provides clear feedback. Blues are best for typing applications requiring distinct feedback.
Cherry MX Brown (Tactile) - A subtle tactile bump but no audible click. Browns offer a balanced experience suitable for both typing and gaming.
Cherry MX Black (Linear) - A heavier version of Reds, requiring more force to press. Blacks are suited to those that prefer more weight behind keystrokes.
Gateron Yellow (Linear) - A budget alternative to Reds, Yellows use a lubricated design for an ultra-smooth stroke. Great for both gaming and general use.
Kailh BOX White (Clicky) - With a crisp click achieved by new switch design rather than metal contact points, BOX Whites have an extra long key travel.
No matter the user's needs, there is almost certainly a mechanical switch design able to satisfy. The right switch choice is highly subjective based on individual preferences around tactility, sound, and weight required to actuate keys.
Customization Options Abound
Along with the wide range of stock switch options, mechanical keyboards offer users extensive customization potential compared to membrane keyboards. Popular aftermarket modifications include:
Keycaps - Standard keycaps can be replaced with colorful, textured custom sets for a refreshed aesthetic. Dye-sublimated, double-shot ABS, and PBT materials offer the best longevity.
Switches - Keystrokes can be refreshed by desoldering stock switches and installing new ones. This is a more involved process better left to experienced builders.
Layouts - Non-standard layouts like 60%, TKL, and 40% sizes optimize keyboards for smaller footprints. Alternative layouts like QWERTY, Dvorak, and Colemak are also options.
Modifications - Inside the case, components like stabilizers, films, and lubricants can be upgraded for enhanced typing feel and sound profiles.
Through experimenting with DIY customization, users can develop keyboards perfectly tailored to their individual input needs and aesthetic preferences in a way far beyond the abilities of mass produced keyboards. The possibilities for customization have given rise to an enthusiastic community of keyboard enthusiasts.
Rising Prominence and the Future of Mechanical Keyboards
Once viewed as specialty accessories, mechanical keyboards have firmly cemented themselves as the top choice for serious computer users and professionals demanding top-tier input tools. Their durability, fast response, and pleasant typing feel allow mechanical keyboards to serve users for many years to come, unlike cheaper keyboards that may fail within just a few.
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