The History of Mechanical Keyboards: A Look Back at the Evolution of a Classic

The history of mechanical keyboards is a long and storied one, dating back to the early days of computing. In this article, we’ll take a look back at the evolution of the mechanical keyboard, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a beloved tool among gamers, programmers, and writers.
The Early Days
The first mechanical keyboards were developed in the 1960s and 1970s, as computers began to become more widespread. These early keyboards were massive and cumbersome, with each key connected to an individual electrical circuit. This design allowed for tactile feedback and precise typing, but it was not without its limitations. The keyboards were prone to malfunctioning, and the mechanical switches could be loud and heavy.
The 1980s: The Golden Age of Mechanical Keyboards
The 1980s are often referred to as the “golden age” of mechanical keyboards. During this time, several companies, including IBM and Cherry, began to develop and manufacture mechanical keyboards that were more durable and reliable. The IBM Model M, introduced in 1985, is often credited with popularizing the mechanical keyboard design. This keyboard featured a compact and lightweight design, with a durable mechanical switch that provided excellent tactile feedback.
The 1990s: The Rise of PC Gaming
The 1990s saw the rise of PC gaming, and with it, a new appreciation for the mechanical keyboard. Gamers and enthusiasts began to demand keyboards that could keep up with the demands of fast-paced games. The IBM Model M, along with other mechanical keyboards from companies like Cherry and Alps, became popular among gamers. The tactile feedback and precision typing provided by these keyboards allowed for faster and more accurate gameplay.
The 2000s: The Dark Ages
The early 2000s saw the rise of membrane keyboards, which were cheaper and more reliable than mechanical keyboards. However, many keyboard enthusiasts began to miss the tactile feedback and precision typing of their mechanical keyboards. As a result, a small but dedicated community of keyboard enthusiasts continued to manufacture and customize mechanical keyboards.
The 2010s: The Resurgence
In the 2010s, mechanical keyboards began to experience a resurgence in popularity. Advances in technology allowed for the development of more affordable and durable mechanical keyboards. Companies like WASD Keyboards and Razer began to cater specifically to the needs of gamers and enthusiasts, offering custom keycaps, backlighting, and advanced switch technology.
The Present and Future
Today, mechanical keyboards are more popular than ever. The rise of the PC gaming community and the growing awareness of the benefits of mechanical keyboards have led to a proliferation of new manufacturers and designs. Keyboards are now available with a wide range of switch types, from tactile and clicky to linear and silent. The popularity of mechanical keyboards has also led to a renewed interest in keyboard design and customization, with many enthusiasts building and customizing their own keyboards.
Conclusion
The history of mechanical keyboards is a rich and storied one, marked by innovation, evolution, and a passion for precision typing. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a beloved tool among gamers and enthusiasts, the mechanical keyboard has come a long way. As technology continues to advance and new designs emerge, it will be exciting to see where the future of mechanical keyboards takes us.