The modern computer keyboard is an evolution of the typewriter, first patented by Christopher Lathan Sholes in 1867. Along with Samuel W. Soule, Carlos Glidden and John Pratt, Sholes is credited with also inventing the QWERTY keyboard layout that anyone with a computer will be familiar with.
The QWERTY layout was designed to reduce the chance of typebars jamming when a key was depressed by separating characters that often appear close together in words. Although this isn’t necessary anyone, the QWERTY format has remained a mainstay of computer keyboards.
Since the invention of QWERTY, there have been other keyboard layouts designed to increase typing speed and accuracy. Examples of other computer keyboard designs include Colemak, Workman and AZERTY, all modifications of the QWERTY base with some letters moved to reduce the amount of travel fingers have to make to type common words, and Dvorak which is an entirely alternate layout with only two letters in the same position as QWERTY.
Despite the fact that there are no longer typebars or hammers that can get stuck, and a plethora of alternate keyboard layouts, QWERTY is still the most popular computer keyboard layout in the English speaking world.
Types of Computer Keyboards
There are multiple different computer keyboard technologies in the market, from thumb boards to projected laser keyboards and ultra compact chorded keyboards. That said, the market is dominated by four styles of computer keyboard – Chiclet, Mechanical, Membrane and Optical.
Chiclet Computer Keyboards
A chiclet keyboard is a type of computer keyboard known for its flat, square, and evenly spaced keys that resemble gum in shape. Chiclet keyboards are typically characterised by a low-profile design and are most commonly found on laptops and in slim desktop keyboards.
Chiclet computer keyboards typically use either membrane or scissor-switch technology. In either case, the keys work based on electrical contact when a key is pressed. In membrane-based chiclet keyboards, under each keycap there is a rubber dome switch that collapses, making electrical contact with a circuit layer beneath it each time a key is pressed.
Scissor-switches feature a mechanism that resembles two interlocking pieces forming an “X.” When a key is pressed, these pieces pivot, allowing electrical contact and key registration.
Ergonomic Computer Keyboards
An ergonomic keyboard is a specialised computer keyboard designed to provide a more comfortable and natural typing experience while reducing the risk of discomfort or injury, such as repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) or carpal tunnel syndrome.
These keyboards are designed with a layout intended to minimise strain on the wrists and arms. They often feature a split or curved design to encourage a more natural hand and wrist posture, reducing the need for awkward bending or stretching while typing.
Mechanical and membrane ergonomic keyboards are readily available. They are typically more expensive than non-ergonomic keyboards and are only suitable for touch typists.
Mechanical Computer Keyboards
Mechanical keyboards use switches that utilise a plunger within a housing. When the plunger is depressed a certain distance (to the actuation point), a terminal on the plunger and housing meet to indicate the key has been pressed.
Mechanical keyboards come in various switch types, each with its unique characteristics. Some popular mechanical switch brands include Cherry MX, Razer, Gateron, Kailh and more. The specific type of switch used determines the feel and performance of the keyboard.
Mechanical switches can be divided into three main categories – linear, tactile and clicky.
Linear Switches: These switches travel up and down smoothly with no change in pressure or feel at any point of travel. Tactile switches are quiet.
Tactile Switches: Tactile switches have a noticeable bump in the middle of the keystroke, supplying feedback to the user that the keypress has been registered. The tactile bump makes no sound, leaving tactile keys silent.
Clicky Switches: Clicky switches have a tactile bump as well as an audible “click” sound at the actuation point. Clicky switches are generally quite loud and are not generally welcome in office environments.
You can think of mechanical keyboards as being the luxury cars of the keyboard world – they generally offer the best performance and experience available, but with a higher price tag as a result.
Membrane Computer Keyboards
A membrane keyboard is a type of computer keyboard that relies on a flexible rubber or silicone membrane beneath the keycaps to register keypresses. The membrane layer contains a series of rubber or silicone domes, each aligned beneath a keycap. When you press a key, the corresponding dome collapses, creating an electrical contact between the top and bottom membrane layers.
Although membrane keyboards are generally less durable than mechanical keyboards, they can still withstand a substantial number of keypresses before showing signs of wear. Membrane keyboards are often more affordable than mechanical keyboards, making them a popular choice for budget-friendly computer setups. They are the most common keyboards on the market.
Optical Computer Keyboards
Optical keyboards use infrared (IR) light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to emit infrared light below the keycaps. Beneath each keycap there is a light sensor that detects the presence of the emitted light. When a key is pressed, the keycap blocks the infrared light from reaching the sensor. This change in light exposure is detected by the sensor, which registers the keypress.
As they don’t rely on physical contact between components, like mechanical switches or membrane keyboards, optical keyboards are known for their rapid response time and minimal input lag.
Anatomy of a Computer Keyboard
Individual keyboards may differ in construction, but most keyboards feature between three and five of the following five components – the case, circuit board, mounting plate, key switches and key caps.
Case
All keyboards have cases. The case of a computer keyboard is both aesthetic and structural. The way a keyboard looks is almost entirely due to the choice of case and key caps. In addition to the aesthetics, the case of a keyboard, along with the mounting plate, also contribute to the rigidity and sturdiness of the keyboard.
Rigidity can contribute greatly to both the performance and feel of a keyboard. A rigid case provides a stable platform for the key switches. This stability ensures that each keypress registers accurately, reducing the chances of missed or accidental keystrokes. In contrast, a flexible or flimsy case can result in uneven pressure distribution, leading to erratic keypresses, particularly during fast typing.
The rigidity of the case can also influence the sound produced when pressing keys. A rigid case often dampens vibrations, resulting in a quieter and more pleasant typing sound. Poorly made or flexible cases often creak when any pressure is applied.
Circuit Board
All keyboards feature some form of circuit board. The circuit board is a critical component that bridges the physical key switches and the electronic input to the computer. A well-engineered circuit board can contribute to a superior keyboard performance and feel, enhancing the overall experience.
The circuit board is responsible for registering keypresses and transmitting them to the connected device. A high-quality, responsive circuit board ensures minimal input lag, resulting in quick and accurate key recognition.
The design of the circuit board determines the keyboard’s N-key rollover capabilities, which is the ability to register multiple keypresses simultaneously. A well-designed circuit board with full N-key rollover ensures that all keypresses are detected, enabling complex commands and preventing ghosting.
Mounting Board
Mounting boards are typically only found in mechanical and optical keyboards. The mounting board, also known as the keyboard plate or backplate is a metal or plastic plate with cutouts designed to fit mechanical key switches. A sturdy and rigid mounting board ensures that the switches don’t move or wobble during keypresses. This stability is vital for reliable and consistent key registration, reducing the risk of missed or accidental keystrokes.
The backplate can also affect the keyboard’s durability. A rigid mounting board can withstand the repetitive stress of keypresses over time, extending the keyboard’s lifespan. A flimsy or flexible mounting board may be more susceptible to wear and tear.
The mounting board influences the sound produced when pressing keys. A thicker and more rigid mounting board can dampen vibrations and reduce keypress noise, resulting in a quieter and more controlled typing sound.
Key Switches
Key switches are synonymous with mechanical keyboards but are sometimes used in membrane keyboards to give cheaper keyboards a more premium feel. These keyboards are sometimes referred to as “mecha-membrane”.
A key switch is the individual mechanism beneath each keycap on a keyboard that registers a keypress. More than any other component, key switches are the biggest determiner of the both the performance and feel of a keyboard.
Key Caps
Keycaps are removable, usually plastic, covers that attach to the top of a key switch and are the part of the keyboard you depress to register a keystroke. Key caps come in a variety of different shape, colours and materials allowing for the customisation of keyboards.
Finding the Right Computer Keyboard for your Needs
Choosing the right keyboard is essential for both productivity and comfort. With mechanical and membrane keyboards being the two primary styles on the market, how do you choose the right keyboard for you?
Mechanical Computer Keyboards
1. Typing Intensive Tasks:
Mechanical keyboards are the preferred choice for tasks that involve extensive typing. Writers, editors, programmers, and data entry professionals benefit from the tactile and responsive feedback of mechanical switches. The distinct keypress feel reduces typing fatigue, resulting in enhanced accuracy and efficiency.
2. Durability and Heavy Usage:
For jobs that involve using a keyboard for prolonged periods, such as customer support representatives or programmers, a mechanical keyboard’s durability can be invaluable. The individual switches are rated for millions of keypresses, ensuring longevity and consistent performance.
3. Customisation and Specialty Keys:
Mechanical keyboards offer extensive customisation options. Some models come with added macro keys or programmable buttons, that can help professionals who rely on shortcuts or complex command sequences.
4. Audio and Video Editing:
For professionals working in audio or video editing, mechanical keyboards provide the tactile and audible feedback necessary for precision editing tasks. The assurance that a keypress has registered aids in fine-tuning projects.
Membrane Computer Keyboards
1. Quiet Office Environments:
In shared office spaces or environments where silence is essential, membrane keyboards are the go-to choice. They provide a quieter typing experience due to the rubber dome mechanism, making them suitable for roles like receptionists, secretaries, or anyone working in close quarters with others.
2. Meeting a tight budget:
For cost-conscious individuals or companies, membrane keyboards are more affordable compared to mechanical counterparts.
3. General Office Work:
For everyday office tasks such as email correspondence, internet browsing, or occasional document creation, membrane keyboards are a practical choice. Their simplicity and low cost make them suitable for a wide range of office professionals.
4. Low Maintenance and Dust Resistance:
Membrane keyboards have a sealed design that makes them less susceptible to dust and debris than mechanical keyboards, making them great for users working in dusty or rugged environments, such as warehouses or construction sites.
