Ali Abdaal
May 3, 2021
Best Keyboards for Speed: Mechanical vs. Membrane Comparison
TL;DR
A comparison of six popular keyboards reveals the Apple Magic Keyboard as the fastest option at 157 WPM, while mechanical keyboards offer better typing feel but slower speeds, with tips for maximizing typing velocity.
Key Takeaways
- 1Apple Magic Keyboard achieved the highest typing speed (157 WPM) and best overall productivity balance of lightweight, quiet design with strong performance
- 2Mechanical keyboards provide more satisfying typing experience but sacrifice speed due to higher key resistance and increased finger movement required
- 3The minimal movement principle—borrowed from professional musicians—is crucial for fast typing; membrane keyboards enable faster speeds by requiring less effort per keystroke
- 4Learning keyboard shortcuts for word/line deletion and minimizing mouse usage significantly improves overall typing productivity
- 5Budget mechanical keyboards like Keychron K2 offer excellent value at roughly 25% of premium mechanical keyboard prices while maintaining decent performance
Notable Quotes
“mechanical keyboards are a bit weird because they're more expensive than normal keyboards generally and it's because the individual keys have a different type of switch inside them”
— Host
“the minimal movement principle...when they're playing their scales and things they try and move their fingers as little as possible...it's sort of the same thing with keyboards”
— Host
“anytime you find yourself hitting the backspace key multiple times there is a quicker way of doing it...that single keyboard shortcut tip has like improved my typing speed by like 20%”
— Host
“there is really nothing i've ever found that beats the apple magic keyboard it's just so simple it's so reasonably priced so great”
— Host
Chapters
1. Introduction & Testing Methodology
Host establishes personal record of 156 WPM and outlines plan to test six keyboards across typing speed, cost, aesthetics, and overall experience while sharing typing speed tips.
2. Iq Unix L80 Mechanical Keyboard
Premium mechanical keyboard with Gate2 Red switches tested at 137 WPM average. Discussed as satisfying to type on but slower than alternatives; priced around $250 with affiliate discount available.
3. Keychron K2 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Budget-friendly mechanical option at $69 (25% of premium prices) averages 141 WPM. Good quality despite plastic build; aesthetic preference varies; recommended for cost-conscious buyers.
4. Logitech MX Keys Productivity Keyboard
Well-regarded productivity keyboard achieved 140 WPM average. Host found typing experience underwhelming despite its reputation, ranking it lower on personal pleasure scale due to key feel.
5. Iq Unix F96 with Cherry Blue Switches
Expensive premium keyboard ($250-300) with excellent build quality and appealing blue/coral aesthetic. Achieved 140 WPM; host prefers for writing but not speed optimization.
6. Razer Pro Type White Mechanical Keyboard
Gaming brand's productivity offering with Razer switches and white LED design. Averaged 141 WPM but felt heavy and dated in typing experience despite attractive aesthetics.
7. Apple Magic Keyboard Winner
Lightweight, wireless, quiet keyboard achieved 155-157 WPM average, breaking personal record. Host's preferred daily driver for speed and practicality; lightweight and Zoom-friendly.
8. Typing Speed Tips & Techniques
Four main tips shared: minimal movement principle from musicians, keyboard shortcuts for batch deletion, minimizing mouse usage in favor of keyboard navigation, and consistent practice on 10FastFingers.com.
9. Keyboard Selection Strategy
Host recommends maintaining two keyboards: Apple Magic for speed and general work; Iq Unix L80 for satisfying writing sessions. Different use cases benefit from different keyboard types.
Key People & Entities
- MKBHD
- Referenced YouTuber known for tech reviews; example of someone who appreciates black and red keyboard aesthetics
- Apple
- Technology company; manufacturer of Magic Keyboard tested and ranked highest for typing speed
- Logitech
- Peripheral manufacturer; maker of MX Keys keyboard and MX Master 3 mouse tested in video
- Razer
- Gaming peripheral brand; produced Pro Type mechanical keyboard with proprietary switches
- Keychron
- Keyboard manufacturer; known for affordable mechanical keyboard options like K2 model
- Iq Unix
- Keyboard brand; manufacturer of L80 and F96 mechanical keyboards featured prominently in tests
- 10FastFingers
- Online typing test website; recommended practice tool for improving typing speed
Glossary
- WPM
- Words Per Minute; measurement of typing speed used throughout the video
- Mechanical Keyboard
- Keyboard with individual switch mechanisms under each key, typically offering more tactile feedback but requiring more key press force
- Membrane Keyboard
- Keyboard using pressure-sensitive rubber domes beneath keys; lighter touch required and generally faster for typing
- Cherry Blue Switches
- Specific type of mechanical keyboard switch known for clicky feedback and distinctive sound profile
- Minimal Movement Principle
- Typing technique of reducing finger travel distance and effort, adapted from professional musician practices