[ The PC Guide | Systems and Components Reference Guide | Keyboards | Keyboard Construction and Operation | Keyswitches ]
Comparison of Keyswitch Technologies
The table below summarizes the key attributes of the different keyswitch technologies:
Type |
Technology |
Travel |
Tactile Feedback |
Audible Feedback |
"Feel" |
Durability |
Cost |
Commonality |
Contact |
Mechanical |
High |
High |
High |
Hard, solid |
High |
High |
Low |
Foam and Foil |
Moderate to High |
Low |
Low |
Soft, quiet |
Low to Moderate |
Low |
Low to Moderate |
|
Rubber Dome |
Moderate To High |
Moderate |
Low to Moderate |
Moderate, springy |
Moderate |
Low to Moderate |
High |
|
Membrane |
Low |
Low to Moderate |
Low to Moderate |
Hard, springy |
Moderate to High |
Low |
Low (for PC Keyboards) |
|
Capacitive |
Capacitive |
High |
High |
High |
Hard, solid |
Very High |
Very High |
Low |
Note: Ratings for mechanical
contact and capacitive keyswitches assume the addition of feedback hardware, as is
commonly done with these designs.
Next: Other Regular
Keyboard Components
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