When there are so many cheaper non-mechanical keyboards, it can be hard to justify spending a lot on a mechanical keyboard. You might be curious about the life expectancy of your new mechanical keyboard before you commit to buying one. Is it worth the cost?
Depending on how often they are used, mechanical keyboards can last up to 10 years. The mechanical keyboard switches can withstand 50 million keystrokes and will last years of heavy usage. Mechanical keyboards can last longer if you’re willing to fix some of their broken parts. A keyboard’s quality is also important. A higher-quality keyboard will last longer than one that is cheaper.
We will discuss the factors that make certain keyboards last longer and the parts that can be fixed to extend the life of your keyboard.
We’ll also cover other features that can prolong the life of a keyboard.
Why are Mechanical Keyboards so durable?
Mechanical keyboards look very similar to normal keyboards at first glance. What makes a mechanical keyboard so unique? They last so long!
Mechanical keyboards are more durable than regular keyboards and have a better build quality. Each key on a mechanical keyboard is equipped with its own switch underneath. Each key can have its own response and feel when pressed.
They have a very long life expectancy. The switch can withstand 50 to 100 million keystrokes before it breaks. Mechanical keyboards are so remarkable because they don’t meet the same quality standards as normal keyboards.
Many membrane keyboards and chiclet style keyboards have been mass-produced for the general public. They are designed to be extremely cost-effective, so they don’t last long. The IBM Model M mechanical keyboard was one of the first to be produced in 1984. It still works well 25 years later.
Model M uses an old buckling spring design, instead of the Cherry MX style switch. However, they were the first to test the mechanical keyboard design and the rest is history.
What parts can be easily replaced on your mechanical keyboard?
It is easy to fix many problems that might arise with your mechanical keyboard. You don’t have to be a DIY expert. It takes only 5-10 minutes to replace the damaged part.
Many Repairable Parts
The mechanical keyboards can be used in the same way as a computer. It is possible to replace a broken part on your computer by simply purchasing a new one. You can order new RAM online if your RAM sticks become corrupt.
The switches, keycaps and stabilizers are some of the most vulnerable parts on a mechanical keyboard. As mentioned, the switches are designed to withstand millions or millions of keypresses. After a few years or a decade of heavy usage, some switches might break.
Switches
We recommend that you order spare switches online to replace the damaged part. You will need to remove the damaged switch from the keyboard PCB and re-solder it. You don’t need to solder if you have a hot-swappable keypad.
Keycaps
The friction caused by your fingers sliding across the tops of keycaps over time will cause the keycaps to wear down. The keycap numbers and letters will begin to fade, and the plastic keycaps will become thinner. This can happen after a lot of use. This is a simple fix. All you have to do is order replacement keycaps online.
Stabilizers
Stabilizers can also become an issue over time. Stabilizers protect your larger keys like the space bar or enter key from shaking excessively. You will need to take the stabilizers off the PCB and then replace them with a new one. There are many types of stabilizers. However, you can generally unclip/clip them from the PCB.
What Makes a Mechanical Keyboard Last More?
When buying a mechanical keyboard, there are many things you should look out for that will increase its longevity. These features are generally more durable and will often cost more.
Attachable Power Cable
Detachable USB power cables for mechanical keyboards are more durable than those with fixed non-detachable cables. To fix a problem with your keyboard, you’ll need to replace the entire cable.
This problem is not present with keyboards that have a detachable power cord. It’s simple to order a replacement cable online if the detachable power cable is damaged. There is no need to purchase a new keyboard because the power cable has failed. Although there are many power ports for keyboards, USB-C is the most popular.
Waterproof or Splash Resistant
There’s a good chance you will spill something over the years that you have owned a mechanical keyboard. It doesn’t matter if you spill soda, beer, or water on the keyboard, it is a smart idea to get a keyboard that is splash-resistant.
Splash resistant keyboards are not easily damaged by soda or water. A splash-resistant keyboard will protect your keyboard’s vulnerable parts from water damage as long as you don’t take a bath with it and submerge it in water. Avoid getting water on the PCB as it is the most susceptible component.
Aluminum Keyboard Case
The keyboard’s case is an essential part. It protects its inner components from damage and impacts. It will determine the feel of your keyboard in your hands: whether it is heavy and sturdy or light and fragile. The case can also affect how each keystroke sounds. A heavier case will make keystrokes sound richer and deeper.
Plastic cases are more common for keyboards that cost less. Plastic is the most affordable material to make, which is why it is so popular. Plastic has its downsides. Plastic cases are lighter, more flexible, and can bend and scratch more easily than other materials. Plastic cases don’t last as long as aluminium or other materials.
Although aluminium keyboard casings are more expensive, they do a better job protecting your keyboard from the elements. Aluminium keyboard casing is stronger and heavier than steel. It can withstand more abuse before cracking or breaking.
PBT Keycaps
Your keyboard’s life expectancy will depend on the plastic used for keycaps. ABS plastic is the standard material for keycaps. A keyboard made from ABS plastic keycaps will develop a greasy shine over time. It will look as if someone typed after eating a bag full of potato chips.
PBT keycaps are made of a different kind of plastic and do not get greasy. These keycaps will last longer and look new even after heavy usage. If you are looking for a long-lasting keyboard, we recommend a keyboard with PBT keys caps.
We have less RBG lighting
Although people enjoy coloured backlighting on keyboards, it can lead to problems over time. The LED bulbs can become damaged over time and are difficult to replace unlike other components.
RGB lighting also requires that more parts are soldered to the PCB, which increases the risk of the PCB failing. RBG lighting can cause keyboard damage.
Conclusion
A mechanical keyboard is more durable than a regular keyboard for many reasons. They are built to last longer and have higher standards of quality. Mechanical keyboards can be easily repaired and replaced with new parts if necessary.
A mechanical keyboard can also have many features that will last longer than other keyboards. You should look for a detachable cable, splash-resistant design and aluminium case material.
