Can You Use Mechanical Keyboard in Office?

Last Updated on November 19, 2023

Can You Use Mechanical Keyboard in Office? is a common question among professionals looking to enhance their typing experience. Mechanical keyboards, known for their tactile feedback and durability, have gained popularity among enthusiasts. This article explores the benefits, types, and considerations of using mechanical keyboards in a professional setting.

Why Use a Mechanical Keyboard at Work?

Mechanical keyboards offer unparalleled customization, allowing you to design a keyboard that suits your preferences. From aesthetics to tactile feedback, every aspect can be tailored to enhance your typing experience. Compared to standard membrane or chiclet keyboards, mechanical keyboards provide a more satisfying and accurate typing experience, potentially boosting productivity.

Durability is another significant advantage of mechanical keyboards, with a lifespan of 50-100 million keystrokes. Their robust construction ensures longevity, making them a wise investment.

Benefits of Using Mechanical Keyboards

Enhanced Typing Experience

Mechanical keyboards offer a tactile and audible typing experience, elevating the mundane task of typing into a satisfying endeavor. The distinct feedback from each keystroke can boost typing speed and accuracy, a potential game-changer for office tasks.

Durability and Longevity

Unlike their membrane counterparts, mechanical keyboards are renowned for their durability. Constructed with high-quality switches, they withstand the test of time, making them a reliable choice for the daily rigors of office work.

Customization for Comfort

One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to comfort preferences. Mechanical keyboards often come with customizable key switches, allowing users to tailor the typing experience to their liking. This customization can contribute significantly to ergonomic well-being.

Increased Productivity

The responsive nature of mechanical keyboards can contribute to increased productivity. The tactile feedback prompts a quicker response from the user, reducing typing errors and potentially streamlining tasks.

Types of Mechanical Keyboards

Clicky Keyboards

Clicky keyboards produce an audible click sound with each keypress, offering a satisfying typing experience. While the noise might be a concern in shared spaces, the tactile feedback is preferred by many users.

Tactile Keyboards

Tactile keyboards provide feedback without the audible click, offering a quieter typing experience. The tactile sensation indicates that a key has been actuated, contributing to a comfortable typing feel.

Linear Keyboards

Linear keyboards have a smooth and quiet keypress without tactile feedback. They are preferred for offices with noise considerations, providing a silent typing experience.

Factors to Consider for Office Use

Noise Level

One crucial factor for office use is the noise level of the mechanical keyboard. Clicky keyboards may be disruptive in quiet work environments, while linear or tactile options offer a quieter typing experience.

Employer Policies

Before bringing a mechanical keyboard to the office, it’s essential to check employer policies regarding peripherals. Some companies may have guidelines on the types of keyboards allowed in the workplace.

Ergonomic Advantages

Mechanical keyboards often offer ergonomic advantages, reducing the strain on wrists and fingers during extended typing sessions. Communicating these benefits to employers can facilitate approval for their use in the office.

Office Etiquette and Noise Considerations

While mechanical keyboards offer a superior typing experience, their audible clicks may disrupt the tranquility of a shared office space. Consider using dampened switches or opting for quieter typing techniques to maintain a harmonious work environment.

Choosing the Right Switch

Selecting the appropriate switch is pivotal to a positive mechanical keyboard experience. Factors such as typing preference, noise tolerance, and tactile feedback all play a role. Explore different switch types to find the one that aligns with your needs and office culture.

Wireless or Wired: What’s Ideal for the Office?

The choice between a wired and wireless mechanical keyboard depends on personal preference and office requirements. Wired keyboards offer a reliable connection, while wireless options provide flexibility. Consider the nature of your work and workspace when making this decision.

Popular Mechanical Keyboards for Office Use

1. WASD CODE V3 Mechanical Keyboard

• Layout Options: Tenkeyless or Full-sized
• Switch Recommendation: Cherry MX Browns for a quiet yet tactile experience
• Backlighting: Clean white LED for visibility without distraction
• Additional Features: Customizable macro keys, durable construction, cable management

2. Ducky One Grey

• Layout: Full-sized
• Switch Recommendation: Cherry MX Browns for quiet and tactile feedback
• Keycaps: Double-shot PBT for durability and texture
• Adjustability: Three keyboard stand adjustments for comfort

3. Kinesis Freestyle Pro

• Design: Split keyboard for ergonomic typing
• Switch Recommendation: Choose based on personal preference
• Adjustability: Retractable legs, optional wrist support, and adaptable layouts
• Price: $179, offering ergonomic benefits for long-term typing comfort

FAQs

Are Mechanical Keyboards Allowed in All Offices?

Yes, in most cases, mechanical keyboards are allowed. However, it’s essential to check the office policies to ensure compliance. The noise factor may influence the decision, prompting some offices to have specific guidelines.

Can Mechanical Keyboards Cause Fatigue?

While mechanical keyboards offer a comfortable typing experience, prolonged use without breaks can lead to fatigue. It’s advisable to take regular breaks and maintain proper ergonomic practices to prevent any potential discomfort.

Do Mechanical Keyboards Improve Typing Speed?

Yes, for many users, mechanical keyboards can enhance typing speed. The tactile feedback and distinct keypresses contribute to a more responsive typing experience, allowing for faster and more accurate keystrokes.

What is the Average Lifespan of a Mechanical Keyboard?

The average lifespan of a mechanical keyboard ranges from 20 to 50 million keystrokes, depending on the quality of the switches. Regular maintenance and cleaning can extend the lifespan of your keyboard.

Are Mechanical Keyboards More Expensive?

Yes, mechanical keyboards tend to be pricier than membrane keyboards. However, their durability and performance justify the higher cost for many users.

Can You Use Mechanical Keyboards in Open Office Settings?

Using mechanical keyboards in open office settings is feasible with proper consideration for noise levels. Opting for quieter switches and respecting the working space of others can make them a viable choice in such environments.

Can You Use Mechanical Keyboard in Office?

Yes, you can use a mechanical keyboard in an office, but there are a few factors to consider. Mechanical keyboards are known for their tactile and audible key switches, which can be louder than the membrane keyboards commonly found in offices. If your office environment is quiet and your colleagues don’t mind the noise, using a mechanical keyboard may be acceptable.

However, if you work in a shared or open office space where noise can be a concern, you might want to choose a mechanical keyboard with quieter switches, such as Cherry MX Brown or Cherry MX Red switches. Some mechanical keyboards also come with dampeners or o-rings that can reduce the noise of key presses.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to check with your colleagues or office policies to ensure that using a mechanical keyboard is acceptable. Some offices may have specific guidelines regarding the type of peripherals you can use at your desk.

In summary, while you can use a mechanical keyboard in an office, it’s important to be mindful of the noise it may produce and consider quieter switch options if necessary.