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If you’ve ventured a little further into the world of premium keyboards than the average person. You’ll have noticed that the price of a mechanical keyboard can vary widely from budget models like the $20 Hexgears GK735 to ultra-premium models like the $200 Logitech G915. However, regardless of whether you choose a budget mechanical keyboard or a premium one, there’s no doubt that they cost more than the average membrane keyboard. Why is that? Let’s examine why mechanical keyboards cost more and whether they’re worth the additional fees.

Understanding the Difference Between Mechanical Keyboards and Membrane Keyboards

Mechanical keyboards are different from your standard membrane keyboard. For more information on that topic, check out my article going in-depth on the differences between them. To summarize that article, mechanical keyboards use a matrix of switches that complete circuits on the keyboard’s printed circuit board when the spring inside the switch is compressed and presses against the PCB.

Membrane keyboards use a rubber or silicone membrane layer stretched over the PCB with tabs of electrically conductive paint on the underside. When you press a key, it pushes the membrane down and the electrically conductive paint completes the circuit on the PCB, registering your keypress.

Why Are Mechanical Keyboards So Much More Expensive?

Mechanical keyboards have more physical parts than membrane keyboards. The entire key matrix of a membrane keyboard is technically one continuous part. On a mechanical keyboard, each individual key must have its own switch. Switches are made of plastic. Each one has a metal spring inside. The switches must be individually lubricated. The plate must have compatible sockets. There are several extra parts that simply aren’t present in a standard membrane keyboard. These additional parts require materials, which don’t come for free!

Additionally, since mechanical keyboard manufacturers are already going to charge more for the additional materials, parts, and construction facilities, they typically don’t bother cheaping out on any materials. You’ll find that mechanical keyboards are often heavier than membrane ones, using thicker plastic or metal for the frame, a metal backplate, and weightier keycaps that can withstand a good beating.

Are Mechanical Keyboards Worth the Extra Money?

On the whole, a mechanical keyboard is going to last longer, be more resilient, and have a better build quality than a membrane keyboard. However, if you are only using your computer once a day or less for short periods, there may not be a need to invest in a high quality keyboard that will outlive you.

Mechanical keyboards are primarily for people who use their keyboards all the time. Think typists, writers, programmers, and gamers, to name a few demographics. People in these demographics will quickly wear out or outright destroy membrane keyboards that are made of cheap materials. I would know, I went through four $20 membrane keyboards in just under a month before finally making the switch to mechanical. (I actually broke them, as in, shattered the backplate while mashing keys.)

If you use your keyboard often, or need a keyboard that is extra light on the fingers (think rheumatoid arthritis, hypermobility spectrum disorder/Ehler’s-Danlos Syndrome, etc.), a mechanical keyboard can provide a more sturdy and easy-to-use alternative that puts less pressure on your hands while your type.