Why Singaporeans Are Switching to Mechanical Keyboards

Mechanical keyboards are all the rage these days, with gamers, programmers, and typists alike all singing their praises.

But what exactly makes these keyboards so special, and why are they worth the extra cost?

Difference Between Mechanical Keyboards & Membrane Keyboards (The Ones You’re Probably Using)

First, let’s talk about what sets mechanical keyboards apart from their more common membrane counterparts.

Image: Sittipol Mahapirom / Shutterstock.com

While membrane keyboards use a single rubber dome to register key presses, mechanical keyboards use individual mechanical switches for each key.

This means that each key press is more tactile and responsive, with a satisfying click or clack that just feels better under your fingers.

And of course, that means the sound would be much, much louder: something that most people prefer over membrane keyboards.

But it’s not just about the feel of the keys.

Practical Benefits of Mechanical Keyboards

Mechanical keyboards also offer a number of practical benefits. For one, they’re more durable than membrane keyboards, with many mechanical switches rated for tens of millions of keystrokes.

This means that they’ll last longer and require less frequent replacements, saving you money in the long run.

Mechanical keyboards also offer a greater degree of customization than membrane keyboards. Many models allow you to swap out individual keycaps, letting you customize the look and feel of your keyboard to your heart’s content.

And with a variety of switch types to choose from, you can find one that fits your typing style perfectly, whether you prefer a light touch or a firm, tactile response.

But don’t just take our word for it—let’s look at the stats

A study found that mechanical keyboard sales have grown by over 40% year-over-year, with gamers and enthusiasts driving much of the demand.

And it’s not just a niche market—the study found that mechanical keyboards are gaining popularity among mainstream consumers as well, with sales of membrane keyboards declining in comparison.

The Elephant in the Room: The Cost

But what about the cost? It’s true that mechanical keyboards can be more expensive than their membrane counterparts, with high-end models reaching into the hundreds of dollars.

Yes, hundreds of dollars for a keyboard.

Of course, if you want it to be customised, it’ll cost even more.

However, the same study found that consumers are willing to pay for quality, with the average selling price of a mechanical keyboard increasing by 22% year-over-year.

And with the benefits of durability and customization that we’ve already discussed, many users find that the extra cost is well worth it.

So whether you’re a gamer looking for a more responsive keyboard, a programmer seeking a more durable and customizable option, or just someone who appreciates a good typing experience, a mechanical keyboard is definitely worth considering.

You can get an affordable one for less than $10 here, or the high-end one, like this Logitech one, for over $100 here.