I prefer mechanical keyboards because, when I started using computers, pretty much all the keyboards on Real Computers (as opposed to C64s or Timex Sinclairs or

I prefer mechanical keyboards because, when I started using computers, pretty much all the keyboards on Real Computers (as opposed to C64s or Timex Sinclairs or whatever) were mechanical. I learned how to properly type in a Keyboarding class in high school that was done on IBM Selectrics. That's what I associate with a "good keyboard." I can certainly use something else, and often do, but one of the things I look for in a laptop is a good keyboard. It's my primary interface with a computer, and therefore it's worth paying attention to. That said, the people who adopt a mechanical keyboard all mention the comfort of the clicky-keys. I agree with this. The feedback means I have an indication that I'm typing what I type that doesn't require the mental round-trip of seeing it on the screen first. The membrane keyboards are a lot better now, but every now and then you get one that's particularly mushy. I find myself striking the keys harder, which tires out the tiny joints in your fingers.