A keyboard is an integral part of any computer setup.
Mechanical and chiclet-style keyboards are two of the most common types of keyboards on the market.
Some of the differences between mechanical and chiclet keyboards are apparent at first glance, but others are not.
Mechanical Keyboard vs. Chiclet Keyboard: What’s the Difference?
Mechanical keyboards are keyboards that usemechanical, spring-activated switches.
The key is activated when it is pressed beyond a certain threshold.
Image Credit: Patrick Breen/Flickr
Mechanical keyboards are not a recent invention, having been invented in the 1700s.
Chiclet keyboards are quite popular and can be found in most notebooks and laptops.
The name comes from the similarity to Cadbury Adams' popular chewing gum brand Chiclet.
Image Credit: Patrick Breen/Flickr
A dislodged key on a mechanical keyboard can usually be propped back into place.
With the right tools, it is usually possible to replace a switch that eventually dies after repeated use.
They are also much easier to clean and maintain.
Chiclet keyboards are much more difficult or even impossible to repair.
This is due to the membrane layer, which must be intact for the circuit to function properly.
They are also less durable than mechanical keyboards and generally produce less noise.
Because of their bulk and size, mechanical keyboards are ill-suited to frequent movers.
These are allpros and cons of using an external keyboard, whether a mechanical or chiclet design.
Another difference between these types of keyboards is that mechanical keyboards are customizable.
For some, mechanical keyboard customization is a passionate hobby.
For example, theMechanical Keyboard subreddithas over 1.2 million members!
Some examples of hot-swappable mechanical keyboards include theVissles V84,Kono Discord TKL, and theKeychron Q8.
On the other hand, Chiclet keyboards are not known for being modifiable.
Usually, what you pay for is what you get for the long haul.
Also, mechanical keyboards aremore likely to have N-key rollover(usually 6KRO or higher) or anti-ghosting.
Multiple keys can be pressed simultaneously without any ghosting (not registering).
This can be advantageous for competitive gamers who use long key combos.
Chiclet keyboards are generally better suited for office work and are used in large corporate environments.
They are less intrusive, less noisy, and can fit in public spaces, cafes, and libraries.
In short, a mechanical keyboard will serve you better if you are a PC gamer.
Mechanical Keyboard vs. Chiclet Keyboard: Price
In comparison to chiclets, mechanical keyboards are somewhat pricey.
Mechanical keyboards with backlighting, wireless connectivity, and knob controls can cost even more.
Compared to their mechanical equivalents, chiclet keyboards are less expensive.
Most people use them since they are cheap and convenient.
A chiclet might suit you if you just need a keyboard that works.
Mechanical Keyboard vs. Chiclet Keyboard: Which One Should You Buy?
Mechanical and chiclet keyboards have their pros and cons.
The ultimate right choice is the one that fits your budget and meets your needs.
