Advantages and disadvantages of low-profile mechanical keyboards
In the past few years, companies have been expanding their lineups of "low-profile" mechanical keyboards. The following is a summary of their features, advantages and disadvantages.
Modified at: 2024.10.4Posted at: 2022.8.29
What is a low-profile mechanical keyboard?
It is a mechanical keyboard with a low keyboard height (tall).
Generally, mechanical keyboards (normal profile) are taller due to the mechanical switches. This is called "tall" by some, and the opposite is true of low-profile keyboards, which are called "low-profile.
Due to the way mechanical keyboards work, there are only a few types of low-profile keyboards, but they are also popular mechanical keyboards in some parts of the world.
What are the advantages of a low profile mechanical keyboard? What are the advantages?
Less stress on the body
Low-profile mechanical keyboards are popular in part mainly because they are less physically demanding when typing.
Normal profile mechanical keyboards inevitably have a higher overall keyboard height to accommodate the key switches and the height of the keystrokes.
If you are not used to this, it can lead to physical pain and typing discomfort, but with a low profile, the discomfort can be minimized.
No armrests required.
Another advantage of low profile is that fewer accessories are required.
Normally, when using a mechanical keyboard, an armrest is used to reduce the burden on the hands and elbows, but a low profile can be used without an armrest.
Without armrests, you have more desk space and more freedom in typing.
Light typing
Mechanical switches inevitably have deep keystrokes, which makes typing feel heavy (and distant) depending on the axis.
However, low-profile mechanical keyboards are equipped with switches specially designed for low-profile use, so the keystrokes are firmly shortened. This makes typing feel lighter.
What are the disadvantages of low-profile mechanical keyboards?
Mechanical keyboards are inherently enjoyable keyboards with a unique switch feel. By making a low-profile keyboard, the click and touch feeling that is typical of mechanical keyboards will inevitably fade away.
Some people say that it is better to use a normal keyboard such as a membrane keyboard rather than a low-profile keyboard, but that is a matter of taste.
However, the fact that the "mechanical keyboard feel" is reduced is a demerit of low-profile mechanical keyboards.