Have you ever wondered why some keyboards cost a fortune while others can be purchased for a bargain?
In this article, we will explore the nuances and distinctions between a cheap keyboard and an expensive keyboard.
We will uncover the factors contributing to their varying price tags from the materials used to the features offered. So, whether you’re an avid typist searching for the perfect keyboard or simply curious about the differences, join us as we journey to unravel the mysteries behind these often overlooked but essential devices.
Get ready to discover what sets a cheap keyboard apart from its more costly counterpart and how it can impact your typing experience.
Review contents
Materials and Build Quality
Cheap Keyboards
Cheap keyboards are typically made with lower-quality materials such as plastic. The build quality may not be as robust, leading to a shorter lifespan. These keyboards may have a flimsy feel and can be more prone to breaking or wearing out over time.
The keycaps on cheap keyboards are often made of thin plastic, which can wear down and lose their markings faster. The overall construction of cheap keyboards may not be as solid, affecting their durability and longevity.
Expensive Keyboards
On the other hand, expensive keyboards are usually constructed with higher-quality materials. They may feature metal frames or reinforced plastic, providing a more durable and premium feel. The keycaps on expensive keyboards are often made of sturdier materials such as PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), which are more resistant to wear and fading over time. The build quality of expensive keyboards is typically superior, offering a more solid and long-lasting keyboard.
Key Switches
Mechanical Switches
Cheap keyboards often use membrane switches, which are cheaper to produce but lack mechanical switches’ tactile feedback and durability. On the other hand, mechanical switches are the hallmark of many expensive keyboards. They provide a satisfying tactile sensation and audible click, making typing a more pleasurable experience. Mechanical switches are also known for their longevity, with some switches rated for tens of millions of critical presses before they fail.
Membrane Switches
Membrane switches are commonly found in cheap keyboards. These switches contain a rubber or silicone membrane with a conductive pad underneath each key. When a key is pressed, the conductive pad completes a circuit, registering the keystroke. Membrane switches are generally less durable and offer less tactile feedback than mechanical ones. They can feel mushy and require more force to actuate, resulting in a less enjoyable typing experience.
Durability and Longevity
Cheap Keyboards
Due to the lower quality materials and build, cheap keyboards often have a shorter lifespan. The keycaps may wear down or become loose over time, and the overall structure of the keyboard may become less stable. The membrane switches used in cheap keyboards are also more prone to failure and may start registering multiple keystrokes or not registering them after a certain period.
Expensive Keyboards
Expensive keyboards are designed with durability in mind. The higher quality materials and superior construction contribute to a longer lifespan. Mechanical switches, commonly found in expensive keyboards, are known for their durability and ability to withstand heavy use. The keycaps on expensive keyboards are often made of more durable materials, ensuring that the markings on the keys do not fade or wear off quickly.
Typing Experience
Key Travel and Actuation
Cheap keyboards typically have a shorter critical travel distance and lower actuation force. This can result in a less satisfying typing experience as the keys may feel shallow and require less force to press, making it easier for accidental keystrokes to occur. Expensive keyboards, especially those with mechanical switches, generally offer a longer critical travel distance and require slightly more force to actuate. This can provide a more tactile and responsive typing experience, especially for touch typists or those who spend long hours typing.
Response and Feedback
Cheap keyboards may lack proper response and feedback due to their membrane switches. The keys may feel mushy and lack the satisfying click, or tactile feedback mechanical switches provide. With their mechanical switches, expensive keyboards offer both audible and tactile feedback. Each keystroke provides a satisfying sensation and produces a distinct sound, enhancing the typing experience.
Customization and Features
LED Backlighting
Expensive keyboards often come with LED backlighting options, allowing users to customize the color and intensity of the keyboard’s backlight. This can be particularly useful in low-light environments or for gamers who prefer a specific color theme. Cheap keyboards typically do not have LED backlighting or offer limited customization options.
Programmable Keys
Expensive keyboards often feature programmable keys, allowing users to assign custom functions or macros to specific keys. This can benefit gamers or individuals who frequently use specific shortcuts or commands. Cheap keyboards generally do not have programmable keys, limiting their versatility and customization options.
Media Controls
Expensive keyboards often include dedicated media controls, such as volume and playback controls, conveniently located on the keyboard. This allows easy access to media functions without switching windows or using additional software. Cheap keyboards typically lack dedicated media controls, requiring users to use software or navigate through system menus to control media playback.
Ergonomic Design
Expensive keyboards often prioritize ergonomic design features, such as wrist rests or adjustable angles, to provide a more comfortable typing experience. These design elements can help promote better posture and reduce strain on the wrists and hands during extended typing sessions. Cheap keyboards generally do not offer the same level of ergonomic design, potentially leading to discomfort or fatigue over time.
Connectivity Options
Wired Keyboards
Cheap keyboards are often wired, requiring a direct connection to a computer or device via USB. While this ensures a consistent and reliable connection, it can restrict mobility and limit the range of movement for users. Expensive keyboards may offer wired and wireless connectivity options, allowing users to choose the best option. Wireless keyboards typically use Bluetooth technology to connect to devices, providing greater freedom of movement but potentially introducing latency or connectivity issues.
Wireless Keyboards
Expensive keyboards often offer wireless connectivity options, allowing users to connect to their devices without cables or wires. This can provide greater flexibility and freedom of movement, which can be especially beneficial for individuals who prefer to work or play from a distance. However, wireless keyboards may introduce latency or connectivity issues, and they require batteries or recharging, adding to the overall cost and maintenance of the keyboard.
Gaming Performance
Response Time
Cheap keyboards may have higher response times, leading to delays in registering key presses during intense gaming sessions. This delay can be frustrating and can impact gaming performance. Expensive keyboards, especially those designed with gaming in mind, often prioritize low response times, ensuring that key presses are registered quickly and accurately. This can improve the overall gaming experience and give players a competitive edge.
Anti-ghosting and N-Key Rollover
Cheap keyboards may have limitations regarding crucial rollover, which refers to the ability to register multiple simultaneous key presses. This can result in “ghosting,” where certain keystrokes are not recognized when multiple keys are pressed simultaneously. Expensive keyboards often feature anti-ghosting technology and N-key rollover, allowing multiple key presses to be registered simultaneously. This is crucial for gamers who rely on complex key combinations or need precise control during gameplay.
Brand Reputation and Support
Expensive keyboards often come from reputable brands with established track records in the industry. These brands often prioritize customer support and provide product warranties or guarantees. In contrast, cheap keyboards may come from lesser-known brands, making finding reliable customer support or warranty coverage challenging. Investing in an expensive keyboard from a reputable brand can provide peace of mind and assurance that help will be available if any issues arise.
Price Range
Budget Keyboards
Cheap keyboards are usually more affordable, making them an attractive option for individuals on a tight budget. Depending on the model and brand, these keyboards can often be found for under $50 or even less. While they may lack certain features and have lower build quality, they can still serve their purpose for general typing tasks or casual computer use.
Mid-Range Keyboards
Mid-range keyboards offer a balance between price and features. These keyboards often come from reputable brands and offer a good compromise regarding build quality, typing experience, and additional features. Prices for mid-range keyboards can range from $50 to $150, depending on the specific model and brand.
High-End Keyboards
Expensive keyboards fall into the high-end category, often premium products with top-of-the-line features and build quality. These keyboards are designed for enthusiasts, gamers, or professionals who require the best typing experience and durability. Prices for high-end keyboards can exceed $150, with some models reaching several hundred dollars.
Personal Preferences
Subjective Factors
When choosing between a cheap keyboard and an expensive one, personal preferences play a significant role. Some individuals may prioritize cost-effectiveness and opt for a cheap keyboard that fulfills their basic typing needs. Others may value the tactile feedback and durability of expensive keyboards and are willing to invest in a higher-quality product.
Individual Needs
Individual needs and use cases should also be considered when selecting a keyboard. Gamers may prioritize features such as anti-ghosting and low response times, making an expensive gaming keyboard a better fit for their needs.
Professionals who spend countless hours typing may prefer the comfort and durability of an expensive, ergonomic keyboard. Identifying one’s specific requirements to choose a keyboard that offers the best possible experience is essential.
In conclusion, the difference between a cheap keyboard and an expensive keyboard lies in the materials and build quality, key switches, durability and longevity, typing experience, customization and features, connectivity options, gaming performance, brand reputation and support, price range, personal preferences, and individual needs.
While cheap keyboards may serve their purpose for basic tasks, expensive keyboards are designed to offer a more premium typing experience, better build quality, and additional features. Ultimately, choosing between a cheap keyboard and an expensive one depends on one’s budget, requirements, and priorities.
