The two main keyboard types are mechanical and membrane. Mechanical keyboards use a separate switch under each key. Membrane keyboards use a rubber dome sheet. Each suits different players and budgets.
Last updated: October 30, 2026.
Mechanical keyboards
Each key has its own switch (linear, tactile or clicky). They feel crisp and are often rated for tens of millions of keystrokes, and hot-swappable boards let you change switches. They usually cost more and can be louder.
Membrane keyboards
Membrane boards are quiet and cheap, with a softer feel. They are good for casual gaming and shared spaces, but they feel less crisp. Some gaming membrane boards are sold as “mechanical feel”.
Optical and Hall Effect switches
Optical switches use light to detect presses. Hall Effect switches use magnets and can offer adjustable actuation. Both are used in newer gaming keyboards. See our 60% keyboards.
Which should you choose?
- Competitive play and typing feel: mechanical, optical or Hall Effect.
- Quiet use or tight budget: membrane.
- Customization: hot-swappable mechanical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are mechanical keyboards better for gaming?
Many players prefer them. It is a matter of feel and budget.
Are membrane keyboards bad?
No. They are quiet and affordable.
What is “mechanical feel”?
Marketing for a membrane keyboard designed to feel crisper.
Bottom Line
Mechanical for feel and durability, membrane for quiet and cost. See the buying guide.
