Are mechanical keyboards good for programming?
Are mechanical keyboards good for programming?
Mechanical keyboards are highly recommended for programming due to their benefits in terms of productivity, comfort, and customization options.
These keyboards provide a satisfying typing experience and can help programmers type faster and more efficiently.
They are known for their light and responsive switches, macro-programmable keys, and ergonomic designs. Mechanical keyboards offer a wide range of options, including compact sizes, full-size layouts, and various switch types such as tactile, linear, and clicky switches.
Popular mechanical keyboards for programming include the Keychron Q2, Corsair K100 RGB, Epomaker SK71, Drop CTRL, and Keychron K4.
They are preferred by programmers for their functionality, durability, and the ability to tailor the keyboard to individual preferences.
What are mechanical keyboards?
Mechanical keyboards boast a number of features that make them unique and much better than normal keyboards. With different switches for each key, they give tactile feedback and the most comfortable typing experience that will keep you going.
Programmers who spend most of their time coding, writing programs, debugging errors and many more, are usually demotivated when a keyboard does not fit in for their needs. Of course, mechanical keyboards are not going to polish your programming skills but can make programming pleasurable. All of this will become even better if you have a comfortable keyboard that gives you maximum comfort. Working on a mechanical keyboard is no doubt heavenly satisfying.
Durable switches like linear, clicky and tactile are used for enhanced performance, these switches are what make these keyboards so special and expensive.
Types of switches:
Mechanical switches are broadly categorized into these types:
Linear switches:
These are the silent ones, they don't give feedback on your keystrokes. They give a lighter feel which will assist you in typing faster.
Clicky switches:
As they give feedback, they are a bit louder than others. Upon receiving the feedback you can release the key.
Tactile switches:
As their name suggests, they give tactile feedback. Once you feel a noticeable bump your keystroke will be registered.
Cherry MX switches:
You must be familiar with these switches, they are the most durable and premium quality ones. We'll discuss a few of the Cherry MX switches. Firstly Cherry MX Red, a linear switch with an actuation force of 45 CN is much favoured by gamers. Its silent version was also launched in 2015.
Cherry MX Blue has a tactile bump with a clicky sound, it is much admired by typists. Although the noise it creates is a bit distracting
Advantages of mechanical keyboards:
Best typing results:
The mechanical switches give the fastest feedback with pinpoint accuracy. The sound created by the switches upon registering a click is satisfying for many users. It feels awesome to work on keyboards like these and you'd obviously get addicted to these keyboards wholly for the satisfaction they'll give you. It is worth working on a mechanical keyboard than a standard one due to faster typing and precision.
Long-lasting:
Programmers spending hours in front of the screens admire the quality of the switches that enable them to work freely without any worry of switches breaking down. Fortunately, they are durable for up to 50 million clicks.
Higher key rollover:
Mechanical switches give you the advantage of getting all your clicks registered at a time. So it's great that none of your keystrokes will go wasted. With this, the mechanical keyboards also feature N key rollovers which registers each of your keystrokes accurately.
Key pressure:
Just with a light touch you can press the key and get it registered, no need to drag it all the way down. This feature will enable you to type faster without fatiguing your hands or fingers. Keys with linear switches allows you to register click with a lighter feel.
Customization:
Each key can be customized in a different colour and design that will make your keyboard look unique, keeping the eyes open of your counterparts. Each keycap uses a different kind of plastic for a smoother feel. You can even change the layout of a mechanical keyboard by placing different keys at different places and can even leave blank keycaps.
Disadvantages of mechanical keyboards:
Expensive:
It is true that you'll have to break your bank to get a mechanical keyboard, that is what stops you from purchasing a mechanical keyboard. The manufacturers don't charge you for anything. With such a high investment you're going to have the best quality too, the extremely durable and top-notch switches will make your programming experience enjoyable.
Weight:
When we talk about their weight, we're a bit disappointed. Mechanical keyboards weigh more than standard ones due to the embedded metal plate, switches etc. But these make it more stable and firm.
Louder:
The type of switches used to reflect how much noise is created. Keys that use clicky switches are the loudest. Your counterparts might get annoyed by the continuous, loud noise created that might distract them from their work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth upgrading to a mechanical keyboard?
Mechanical keyboards provide a more enjoyable typing experience, offer customization options, and are more durable and easier to repair compared to standard keyboards. They allow for a personalized typing experience tailored to individual preferences, making them ideal for those who spend a lot of time typing, programming, or gaming. Additionally, mechanical keyboards offer different switch types that can enhance typing speed and accuracy
Should I use a mechanical keyboard for coding?
Using a mechanical keyboard for coding is highly recommended. Mechanical keyboards provide a more satisfying typing experience, improved accuracy, and faster response times, which can enhance coding productivity. The tactile feedback and distinct key presses of mechanical keyboards allow programmers to type with greater precision and reduce the chances of accidental keystrokes. Additionally, mechanical keyboards offer customizable layouts and switch options to cater to individual preferences and typing styles.
Is it OK to type hard on a mechanical keyboard?
Yes, it is generally okay to type hard on a mechanical keyboard. Mechanical keyboards are designed to withstand heavy typing and offer a more durable typing experience compared to rubber dome keyboards. They are built with individual switches under each key, providing a more tactile and satisfying typing feel.
What type of keyboard is best for programming?
Mechanical keyboards provide a satisfying typing experience and improve typing speed and accuracy for programmers. Some popular mechanical keyboards for programming include the Ducky One 2 Mini, Anne Pro 2, and Keychron K6.
