As a keyboard enthusiast and a self-proclaimed expert in the gaming world, I’ve encountered a lot of keyboard myths that many people tend to believe.
Let’s talk about the biggest keyboard myths and seriously, there are some that my god, I really think there are myths that are even cool to talk about but are nothing more than myths.
In this article, I will take you through some of the most common keyboard myths and show you why they are far from the truth. If you’re here because you’re trying to figure out if your keyboard is the right one for you, trust me, you’re in the right place!
Myth #1: Mechanical Keyboards Are Too Loud
One of the most common misconceptions about mechanical keyboards is that they are excessively loud. While it is true that mechanical switches, especially the “clicky” types like Cherry MX Blue, do produce sound, not all mechanical switches are noisy.
Many people assume that mechanical keyboards are louder than membrane or rubber dome keyboards. While it’s true that membrane keyboards tend to be quieter, mechanical keyboards come in a variety of switch types.
For example, switches like Cherry MX Red or Cherry MX Silent Red are much quieter. So, if you’re in an office or shared space, you can still enjoy the tactile feel of a mechanical keyboard without disturbing others.
- Key Takeaways:
- Mechanical keyboards come in various switch types: clicky, tactile, and linear.
- Quiet mechanical switches (e.g., Cherry MX Silent Red) exist for those in quieter environments.
- Not all mechanical keyboards are noisy, despite popular belief.
Pro Tip: If you’re considering switching to a mechanical keyboard but are worried about noise, try out a quiet switch before making your decision. I personally prefer a switch that offers both comfort and quietness—it’s all about finding your personal sweet spot!
Myth #2: More Expensive Keyboards Are Always Better
We all want the best of the best, right? And many people believe that the more expensive the keyboard, the better the quality.
While it’s true that premium keyboards often come with additional features like RGB lighting, customizable keys, and durable construction, the price doesn’t always equate to better performance.
Some high-end models might offer luxury materials or extra software for key remapping, but when it comes down to it, the performance of a keyboard depends on the switch type, key rollover, and user preferences.
For example, a $200 gaming keyboard may not necessarily improve your typing speed or gaming performance compared to a $50 mechanical keyboard with a similar switch type.
- Key Takeaways:
- Price doesn’t always equate to better performance.
- Focus on key features that matter to you (e.g., switch type, key rollover).
- Sometimes budget-friendly keyboards can offer the same experience as more expensive ones.
Pro Tip: When shopping for a keyboard, look for a model with the features you care about the most. If you’re just into typing and don’t care about RGB lighting, save some cash and focus on a high-quality switch.
Myth #3: Keyboards With More Keys Are Always Better
The idea that a keyboard with more keys or macro buttons is always better for productivity or gaming is a myth. While extra keys and macros can be useful for some specific use cases (like gaming or complex video editing tasks), they aren’t necessarily needed for everyone.
In fact, many people find that a minimalist layout, such as a 60% or 75% keyboard, suits their needs perfectly.
Not everyone needs a full-size keyboard with a number pad or extra media keys. In fact, many professionals and gamers prefer compact layouts because they allow for better ergonomics and more desk space.
The real focus should be on comfort, ease of use, and functionality.
- Key Takeaways:
- A keyboard with more keys is not always better for productivity or gaming.
- Compact keyboards like 60% or 75% layouts can be more efficient for some users.
- Extra keys or macro buttons may only be necessary for specific tasks.
Pro Tip: If you find yourself working with just a few essential keys, a compact keyboard layout might be the perfect fit. You’ll be surprised at how much space you’ll save on your desk!
Myth #4: You Need to Buy a Keyboard for Every Game Genre
Another myth I see often is the belief that you need to buy a separate keyboard for each gaming genre.
People think that a specific keyboard is designed for FPS games, another for MMOs, and yet another for RPGs. While it’s true that some keyboards have specialized features, such as extra macro keys for
MMOs, the truth is that the type of keyboard you need depends more on your personal preference than the type of game you play.
For example, FPS players often prefer linear switches like Cherry MX Red because they offer fast response times and a smooth keystroke.
Meanwhile, MMO players might prefer switches with tactile feedback for better control. But these choices are based on personal preference, not the genre of game. The same keyboard can work well across multiple genres.
- Key Takeaways:
- You don’t need a different keyboard for each gaming genre.
- Choose switches based on personal preference, not the game genre.
- Key features like macro keys can be useful, but aren’t essential for everyone.
Pro Tip: Choose a keyboard that feels comfortable for you, no matter what game you play. I’ve used the same mechanical keyboard for years across different genres, and it’s still my go-to.
Myth #5: All Keyboards Are the Same When It Comes to Gaming
Many gamers believe that all keyboards are created equal when it comes to gaming. This myth can be particularly harmful for competitive players who may not realize that certain features can make a huge difference in gameplay performance.
For example, key rollover and polling rate are critical for gaming, especially in fast-paced titles.
Key rollover refers to how many keys a keyboard can register at once, while polling rate determines how quickly a keystroke is transmitted to the computer.
A high polling rate, such as 1000Hz, ensures that your inputs are registered faster than with lower rates. These features may not be noticeable in casual gaming, but they can make a significant difference in competitive environments.
- Key Takeaways:
- Not all keyboards are the same when it comes to gaming.
- Look for features like key rollover and polling rate for optimal gaming performance.
- High polling rates (e.g., 1000Hz) improve responsiveness during fast-paced gaming.
Pro Tip: If you’re into competitive gaming, make sure your keyboard has a high polling rate and supports multiple key presses at once. Your reaction time could depend on it!
Conclusion
As you can see, many of the myths surrounding keyboards are based on misunderstandings or misinterpretations. Whether you’re a gamer, typist, or just someone looking for a new keyboard, it’s important to make informed decisions.
Don’t let these myths steer you in the wrong direction—focus on what works for you, and don’t be afraid to explore different options!
In conclusion, I think that myths are created when something is widely used and talked about. They are created suddenly and give a mystique to these markets. Anyway, I think that there are some that are myths that are not so good, but there are some that are mystical for keyboards.
If you liked this article, feel free to leave a comment below. I’d love to hear about your experiences with keyboards, and if you have any other myths that need debunking, let me know!
And, as always, don’t forget to share this article with your friends if you think it could help them make a better keyboard decision.
For more in-depth articles about keyboards and tech, check out Keyboards Technology—I’ve got you covered!
See More
- Mechanical Keyboards with OLED Screens: Are They Practical?
- What Are Electro-Capacitive Keyboards?
- How Haptic Feedback is Changing Keyboards
FAQ
Q: Are mechanical keyboards better than membrane keyboards?
A: ✅ Mechanical keyboards are generally considered better for durability, comfort, and customizability. However, membrane keyboards are often quieter and more affordable.
It depends on your personal preferences!
Q: How do I choose the right keyboard for gaming?
A: ✅ Look for a keyboard with a high polling rate and anti-ghosting features.
The type of switch (e.g., mechanical, membrane) will also depend on your play style—linear switches are great for FPS, while tactile switches are better for RPGs.
