Gaming, programming, typing, or dull day-to-day tasks on the pcs and laptops cannot do without keyboards. This input device comes into many forms. You need to decide on a manual according to the nature of your work and preference.ย
The two most common types of keyboards are a chiclet keyboard and a mechanical keyboard. People often feel hard to select one between these two types of keyboards.ย
In this article, I will provide you a detailed overview of the chiclet and mechanical keyboards along with their pros and cons. So stick to this article until you decide the suitable manual for your desk.
Table of Contents
Chiclet Keyboard vs Mechanical Keyboard
[azonpress_comparison id=”11″]The primary differences between these two keyboards are their apparent style and their internal design. Furthermore, the mechanical keyboards are considered the old model and the chiclet are an updated modern version of keyboards.ย Both types of keyboards have specifications that make them well suited for a particular function.
Take the example of โkey rollover.โ This term used for the capability of a computer to handle multiple keys simultaneously, imagine you pressed two keys at a time mistakenly, but your computer would register only one key and ignore the other.
And sometimes we need to press modifier keys like alt, control, a shift in combination with other keys to conduct some functions. This is how the keyboards used for different tasks with a combination of multiple or single keys.ย
Keyboards with high โN key rolloversโ can register the key independently from the hardware and can identify the signal of multiple keys at the moment. Similarly, keyboards with low N key rollover would do the opposite job.ย
Now you must be getting close to the decision to getting a new keyboard for gaming, typing or programming. Which console has many N rollover keys, which has less number of N rollover keys, and which one will be suited for your activities?
At the end of this article, you will be able to get first-hand knowledge about the chiclet keyboard and mechanical keyboard. This will increase your understanding of the mode of actions and physical features of both keyboards. Below we are going to discuss these keyboards thoroughly.
1) Chiclet keyboard
Specification:ย
- Brightly backlit keys with illuminated characters for easy typing, even in the dark, compatible:Windows XP, Windows Vista , Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10
- PerfectStroke key system makes every keystroke more comfortable, fluid and quiet.
- Powerful 2.4 GHz wireless connection with one tiny Unifying receiver that stays in your computer.
- Easily pair with other Logitech devices through a single Unifying USB receiver.
- Compatible with Windows XP, Windows Vista , Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10
The chiclet keyboard is available with many alternate names. Most commonly called chiclet, membrane or island-style keyboards. The reason behind its popular name is a physical resemblance with the American chewing gum brand called Chiclet.
You will find this type of keyboard on laptops, for example, Apple MacBooks. The prominent physical feature of this keyboard is flat, rectangular, or square-shaped keys. The corners of keys are made around with straight sides. No extra spacing found between keys. The chiclet keyboard is smooth and faster. They mostly considered for daily usage.
Usually, every keyboard has the circuits inside them. The chiclet keyboard has two membranes to complete their circuit, therefore called membrane keyboard as well.
The layers came into contact when the key pressed this action completes the circuit and prevents the tactile feedback, making them less noisy. We can say that this feature adds to the uniqueness of the chiclet keyboard.
Reasons to buy Chiclet keyboard
- Easy for pocket money as it will not be a burden on your pocket.
- The best chiclet keyboard is cheap to buy as compared to their mechanical counterparts. These are affordable and most commonly used.
- Portable: It has no extra burden of cords or switches. Therefore chiclet keyboard can be carried everywhere, even inside the bags.
- Mute: The chiclet keyboard does not produce a clicking sound. They are quiet, therefore suitable to use in public places.
- Travel-friendly: Chiclet keyboards generally embedded in the device like on laptops. Lightweight and less noisy are the attributes that contribute to their travel-friendly nature.
Reasons to avoid the Chiclet keyboard
- Difficult to clean: The chiclet keyboard lacks interspaces between the keys; therefore, it is hard to keep them clean.
- Difficult to repair or customize: Once any key broken, it becomes tough for the user to mend it because the chiclet keyboard has a membrane to complete the circuit. For this same reason, the chiclet keyboard cannot customize according to the user’s taste.
- Incompatible for competitive games: For competitive gaming, an appropriate setup needed for the team, therefore the chiclet keyboard is not suitable in this scenario.
2: Mechanical Keyboard
Specification:ย
- Cherry MX Brown mechanical key switches with Gold contacts for a soft Tactile feel and an unmatched typing experience
- Rugged construction to withstand 50+ million keystrokes with aluminum top panel
- Two port USB 3.0 Super speed hub 5 GB/s; 10x the speed of USB 2.0
- Oversized volume knob and dedicated media controls and instant sleep button
- Laser etched key inscriptions with Bumps on the F and J keys.Firmware updatable
- FULL N-key rollover with anti-ghosting
- DAS German engineering: durable build quality to instill confidence and precision
- Magnetically detachable footboard to raise keyboard that also functions as a ruler
Here is our next content of discussion about the chiclet mechanical keyboard. The mechanical keyboard would remind you of the school days.ย
Do you remember? Every time you clicked the bumpy key of your keyboard, and it produced sound on every click because in a mechanical keyboard every key behaves as a complete switch.
The keys of the mechanical keyboard have three sorts of switches underneath.ย
First is the Linear type of switches that use for consistent resistance; this type is suitable for prolonged typing. Another type of switches is tactile; this will not produce sound when touched. The third type of switch is tactile plus audio; this type will produce noise when reached.
Other types of switches are also available for example so letโs take the case of Cherry MX switches which are quite popular. These classified as Black, brown, red, and blue according to their actuation force and tactile feedback.
Actuation force is a term that means how much energy it requires to press on a key to get it recognized by the keyboard. Black has average to high actuation force about 60 CN, which will be rigid to press. Unlike black switches, red ones have the lowest actuation force of 45 cN, and they are marked as gaming switches because they need less effort to press.
Reasons to buy mechanical keyboards
- Easy to keep clean: Unlike the chiclet keyboard, the mechanical keyboard has interspaces between the keys, and these are easy to keep clean. The key caps can easily remove if dust penetrates inside the key.
- Easy to mend: If any key loses its function or it broke, it can be easily fixed or replaced.
- Tactile feedback on every click: The key can be pressed and released on the sound that it produces on every click. This feature is satisfying for typing.
- Favorable for gamers: Normally, players have voted in favor of mechanical keyboards because it prevents jamming during high-speed games. Furthermore, it reduces the stress during gaming caused by the ghosting because it has the right amount of N key rollovers. The mechanical keyboard usually complimented with desktops, which are ideal for competitive gaming.
- Long-lasting: The mechanical keyboard is long-lasting. It made for heavy usage which extends their life.
- Comfortable for fingers: The mechanical keyboard is easy and convenient for hands if you are doing any task for hours. It will prevent your hands from tiredness and pain.
Reasons to avoid mechanical keyboards
- Pricey: The mechanical keyboard is costly as compared to chiclets.
- Loud: The mechanical keyboard may cause noise, which makes it uneasy and lively. It is not suitable when you out of your private space.
- Unfavorable for travel: Usually, a mechanical keyboard is heavy and needs connecting wires which make it unsuitable for travel.
Final Words
While I am writing my concluding remarks about Chiclet vs. mechanical keyboards, hopefully, you have been cleared about your decision to buy the most suitable keyboard according to your needs. Every positive and negative aspect of both keyboards included in our article.ย
If you are a gamer and love to play without any delay, you should go for the best mechanical keyboard. If you are a blogger who spends most of the day typing on a different topic, a still mechanical keyboard is right for you. If you are a student or frequent traveler, then the chiclet keyboard is an appropriate choice for you.
Keeping in mind all the attributes of chiclet and mechanical keyboard as well as your budget will relieve your confusion, which has been a hurdle to buy the most suitable keyboard for you.
Check out which are the best sellingย Chiclet keyboards:
- STYLISH, QUIET PERFORMANCE โ Sleek, full-sized keyboard with numeric keypad features low-profile chiclet keys for more faster, accurate, and quiet...
- LOOKS GOOD, FEELS GOOD โ This wired keyboard's aesthetic, ergonomic design fits your natural typing position for comfortable use all-day
- START TYPING QUICK โ Simply plug the keyboard's USB-A cable into your USB-enabled laptop or desktop PC and start typing right away
- KEYSTROKE OF GENIUS โ Increase efficiency with this thin wired keyboard's convenient top-row shortcut keys that activate 12 common functions with...
- LET THERE BE LED โ Stay in the zone with LED-illuminated Num Lock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock that lets you see what's on or off at a glance
- Easy Ultra Fast To Use: The wired computer keyboard is super easy to use and instantly connects and works with any USB device with no drivers...
- Responsive Low Profile Chiclet Keys: Provide optimized responsiveness and effortless tactile feedback that remind you the key has been hit. You can...
- Slim, Modern Design: The slim keyboard features a premium matte finish and is easy to carry around when working from home. This keyboard is compact...
- Ergonomic: The keyboard angle can be adjusted with the flip-out feet to support your hands in a more ergonomic position, relieving fatigue and...
- Optimize Your Productivity: Boost your workflow and simply how you use your computer with a large number pad, 3 indicator lights and 12 multimedia...
- STYLISH & QUIET PRODUCTIVITY โ Sleek, ergonomic keyboard with numeric keypad features low-profile chiclet keys for accurate typing with minimal...
- GO WIRELESS โ Eliminate cord clutter with wireless keyboard connectivity and enjoy lag-free wireless movement (1), whether you're using a desktop...
- PRODUCTIVITY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS โ Wireless HP keyboard with integrated number pad features easy-to-access keycap shortcuts to 12 popular functions...
- LONG BATTERY LIFE โ Stay productive without interruption with up to 16 months of keyboard use with 2 included AAA batteries (2)
- PORTABLE FLEXIBILITY โ Cordless, battery-powered design makes this wireless keyboard easy to use at the kitchen table, the library, or anywhere you...
- ใ EXCELLENT TYPING EXPERIENCE ใ With comfortable low-profile keys and standard PC keyboard layout with full-size design allow for quiet and...
- ใ ULTRA-SLIM AND ERGONOMICS DESIGN ใ POWZAN keyboard is convinced that is Ultra-slim with the high-end scissors switch whisper-quiet keys, sleek,...
- ใ SPLENDID LED BACKLIGHT ใ The keyboard is an essential piece of equipment for any computer. It takes a prominent position on your desk and will...
- ใ PLUG AND PLAY COMPATIBILITY ใ POWZAN keyboard is ready-to-use right out of the box, so there is no need to download and install any software or...
- ใ A MUST-HAVE FOR MAC& WINDOWS USER ใ 12 Hotkeys designed specifically for both Windows & MAC OS. Shortcuts let you do more with less effort in...
- The Dell Wired Keyboard provides a convenient keyboard solution for everyday home or office computing uses.
- Device Type: Keyboard. Keys Style: Chiclet. Color: Black. Interface: USB.
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 17.4 x 5 x 1 inches. Weight: 17.74 oz.
- Designed For: Alienware 13 R2, 15 R2, 17 R3; Inspiron 3252, 3459; Latitude 31XX, 33XX, 34XX, 35XX, E5270, E5450, E5470, E5550, E5570, E6540, E7250,...
- Designed For: OptiPlex 30XX, 3240, 50XX, 70XX, 7440, 90XX; Precision Mobile Workstation 5510, 7710; Precision Tower 3420, 3620; Vostro 14 5480, 3250,...
- 7 Unique Backlight Color: 7 Elegant LED backlight with 3 brightness level.
- Easy Setup: Simply insert the 1.2M (4 feet) USB wire into your computer and use the keyboard instantly.
- Ergonomic design: Scissors X structure gives you the comfortable typing experience, low-profile keys offer quiet and comfortable typing.
- Ultra Thin and Light: Compact size (16.7 X 4.5 X 0.24in) and light weight (17.4oz) but provides full size keys, arrow keys, number pad, shortcuts for...
- Package contents: Arteck Backlit USB wired Keyboard, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
- ใ๐๐๐ฌ๐ฒ ๐๐ญ๐๐๐ฅ๐ ๐๐จ๐ง๐ง๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐งใDon't have to be familiar with the new keys, USB wired...
- ใ๐๐๐ค๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ค ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ ๐๐๐๐ข๐๐ข๐๐ง๐ญใMultimedia USB Computer Keyboard boost your workflow and...
- ใ๐๐๐๐๐ง๐๐ข๐ง๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ข๐๐ญ ๐๐๐ฒ๐๐จ๐๐ซ๐ใWith noise reduction design, no matter you are...
- ใ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ญ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐๐ฒ๐ฉ๐ข๐ง๐ ใThe USB keyboard angle is adjustable with flip out...
- ใ๐๐ฉ๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ-๐๐๐ฌ๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐ข๐ซ๐๐ ๐๐๐ฒ๐๐จ๐๐ซ๐ใThe waterproofness of our USB...
And here are the best selling mechanical keyboards:
- Multi-Device Connection: AULA F99 wireless mechanical keyboard provides three connection methods, including BT5.0, 2.4GHz wireless mode, and USB wired...
- Hot-swappable Custom Keyboard: The switches and keycaps can be freely replaced(keycap/switch puller are included in the package).This customizable...
- Mechanical Gaming Keyboard: F99 is a premium mechanical keyboard for both work and game. With 16 RGB lighting effect to adds a great atmosphere to the...
- Gasket Structure and PCB Single Key Slotting: This computer keyboard features a gasket structure, extended integrated silicone pad, and PCB single key...
- PBT Keycaps and 8000mAh Battery: 99 keys 96% layout compact keyboard can save more desktop space while keep necessary arrow keys and number area for...
- Big Features on a Small Screen - Is there anything it can't display? Custom gif image, date. connection mode, WIN/MAC layout, battery status, etc.
- Knob Design- Adjust volume, connection mode, backlit brightness/speed, RGB mode/color, all it takes is just a twist or a click.
- BT5.0/2.4G/USB-C - Wireless keyboard with stable BT 5.0, hassle-free 2.4Ghz dongle plus USB-C wired mode set no limits about your keyboard connection.
- Gaming Friendly Top-Mount Design - Offers a superior tactile consistency, firm feeling, and better noice reducing creamy keyboard.
- Sound Absorbing Foams - Equipped with IXPE switch dampener pad, 2 layers of thicker sound-absorbing foams, silicone dampener pad, which reduces 40%...
- YES! TRUE HOT-SWAP - The transformative innovation with 99.8%+ switches compatible free-mod hot swappable Redragon keyboard is available now. The...
- Original Aluminum Board - K556 features the tank-solid aluminum metal board material covered with the classic brushed surface process. Keep the...
- Hot-Swappable Brown Switches: Hot-swappable with almost all switch types in the market no matter 3-pin or 5-pin. Basic tactile mechanical switches,...
- Vibrant Groovy RGB: Up to 20 presets backlighting modes are free to choose by the keyboard itself. Brightness and flowing speed is also adjustable on...
- Pro Software Supported: Expand your options using the available software to design your own new modes and effects found on redragonshop. Macros with...
- 75% Percent Mechanical Keyboard Wired - Compact gaming keyboard retains essential function and arrow keys for achieving more keyboard features while...
- Gasket Mount Mechanical Keyboard - This custom keyboard features built-in multiple sound absorbing layers, including IXPE switch dampener pad, 2...
- Hot-Swappable Linear Switch - R75 mechanical keyboard adopts silver switch Pro with shorter key travel and port surrounding to provide a fast and...
- MDA Profile & PBT Keycaps - The MDA profile offers a superior typing experience compared to other Cherry and OEM profiles, featuring a stepped height...
- Personalized RGB Keyboard - Elevate your gaming experience with the RK R75 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, featuring customizable transparent RGB...
- An adjustable 4-8 degree tilt and slim front lets you type at a comfortable angle.
- Choose between Red, Blue, or Brown switches for the right level of sound and tactile key feedback.
- White backlighting in 5 patterns lets you be productive your way โ even in the dark.
- A modern and durable aluminum design gives you all the mechanics of a gaming keyboard in a sleek premium package that lasts
- A full-size keyboard featuring a number pad and FN keys โ all in a surprisingly compact footprint.
- The Legend Continues: The K70 RGB PRO retains the iconic elements of the award-winning K70 RGB with a durable aluminum frame, CHERRY MX mechanical...
- Powered by CORSAIR AXON Hyper-Processing Technology: Enables a new level of K70 performance, processing and transmitting your inputs up to 8x faster...
- 100% CHERRY MX SPEED RGB Silver Mechanical Keyswitches: Offer lightning-fast response times with a 1.2mm actuation distance, and are guaranteed for...
- Polycarbonate Keycaps with Standard Bottom Row: Durable polycarbonate plastic keycaps with a standard bottom row layout that supports custom keycap...
- Switch on the Competition: Flip the tournament switch to focus on winning those crucial games, automatically locking to distraction-free static...
- Hybrid mechanical gaming switches โ The tactile click of a blue mechanical switch plus a smooth membrane
- OLED smart display โ Customize with gifs, game info, discord messages, and more. OS-Windows, Mac OS X, Xbox, and PlayStation. USB port required
- Aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame โ Manufactured for unbreakable durability and sturdiness
- Dynamic per-key RGB illumination โ Gorgeous color schemes and reactive effects for every key
- Premium magnetic wrist rest โ Provides full palm support and comfort