Hello!
Welcome to the window of Slow Life [Dreams and Hopes]!
Slow Life is fun and happiness feeling! [Concept]
I am the administrator of this blog.
Please take your time to read through it.
In mid-June 2024, I, the administrator of this blog, went hiking with members of the Iizaka Mountain Climbing Club, who love mountain climbing, to “Kamafusayama” (385m above sea level) near Kamafusa Dam, located southwest of Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture.
Kamafusayama is not a big mountain, but a low-altitude mountain that even beginners can enjoy, and it is an easy hiking course that can be completed in about an hour from the trailhead to the summit and back.
We walked slowly along the way, which was also enjoyable as part of our training, and we were able to breathe in plenty of fresh air while taking in the forest bath.
In particular, walking in nature surrounded by a grove of trees was a day that allowed us to refresh both our minds and bodies.
That night, while reminiscing on fun memories, I was at home editing a video of the mountain climbing that I had filmed, drinking beer and my wife’s homemade plum wine.
However, perhaps I drank a little too much, as I accidentally spilled the plum wine on my keyboard.
I thought I had wiped it off immediately, but the next day the keyboard became very unresponsive and moved as slowly as a turtle.
To make matters worse, the screws on the back of the keyboard had worn down over the years of use, and when I tried to turn them with a screwdriver, they would slip and wouldn’t turn properly, making it impossible to repair.
In fact, I had been using this keyboard for over 10 years, so while I thought it was about time to replace it, I felt I had no choice but to give up.
Have you ever had a similar experience?
In this article, based on my own experience of replacing my keyboard, I will share some basic knowledge that will help you choose a keyboard and how to choose each type of keyboard, as well as other information that is not widely known elsewhere.
I hope you will find it useful.
[Japanese translation page]
[Language Learning]
Introduction
Keyboards are essential when working on a computer, but there are a few important points to consider when choosing one.
To choose a keyboard that suits you, you first need to think about how you will use it.
For example, will you use it a lot for work, will you mainly play games, will you often use spreadsheet software (such as Excel), or will you mainly write text?
The functions required will vary greatly depending on the purpose of use.
Next, it is also important where you will use the keyboard.
The size and shape of the keyboard will be different if you use it on a large desk or in a small space.
Also, if you need to carry it around frequently, a lightweight and compact design may be more suitable.
In this way, the place where you use it and whether you move around or not will also greatly affect your choice.
In addition, you cannot ignore the appearance and design of the keyboard.
Choosing a design that you like may make your work or hobby time more enjoyable.
Some people like simple and functional designs, while others prefer gaming keyboards with colorful lights.
However, it is important not only to consider the design, but also to make sure that the necessary functions are available.
Make sure the keyboard has features that suit your intended use, such as an ergonomic design that helps prevent fatigue when typing for long periods of time, and the fast response times needed for gaming.
In fact, the choice of keyboard can have a big impact on your work efficiency and gaming performance.
Comfortable typing can enable you to write text faster, and accurate input can make entering data into spreadsheets smoother.
Conversely, using a keyboard that doesn’t suit you could lead to reduced work efficiency and poor gaming performance.
For this reason, it’s important to carefully determine the features you need and choose a keyboard that will allow you to work efficiently.
Keyboard Basics
Key Pitch
Key pitch refers to the distance from the center of adjacent keys.
This is an important factor that greatly affects the ease of use of a keyboard.
Generally, the standard key pitch is about 19 mm, which is considered a comfortable distance for many people.
With a sufficient distance, your fingers can move freely when typing and there are fewer input errors.
On the other hand, if the key pitch is narrower, the keys will be closer together, which may feel cramped, especially for people with large hands.
You may press the wrong key or feel tired after typing for a long time.
It is also recommended to measure the key pitch of the keyboard you are currently using.
A simple way to do this is to use a ruler to measure the distance from the center of adjacent keys.
If the keyboard feels cramped, consider replacing it with one with a wider key pitch.
Laptop keyboards often have a narrow key pitch due to their compact design.
For this reason, it is recommended to use an external keyboard with a wider key pitch for beginners who are not used to typing or for people with large hands.
Keystroke
Keystroke refers to the depth when you press the key, that is, how deep the key sinks.
This is also an important point when choosing a keyboard.
The general depth of the keystroke is about 3 to 4 mm, but whether the keystroke is deep or shallow can greatly affect the feeling and efficiency of typing.
With a deep keystroke, you can feel the key being pressed firmly, so you are more likely to feel like you have pressed it when typing and there is a tendency to make fewer typing errors.
This type is often preferred by people who type for long periods of time at work or who place importance on accuracy in their input.
However, since it takes longer to press the key, your input speed may be somewhat slower.
In particular, it may not be suitable for games that require instantaneous reactions or when you need to type very quickly.
On the other hand, if the keystroke is shallow, you can enter text by simply pressing the key lightly, making it easier to type quickly.
This type of keyboard is often used in laptops and gaming keyboards, and is suitable for situations where a lot of input is required in a short period of time.
However, because the keys have a shallow depression, they have the disadvantage that they are more likely to accidentally press the wrong key, resulting in “mistyping.”
Which type is better will depend on your purpose and personal preference.
If you often need to type quickly, a keyboard with a shallow keystroke would be better, but conversely, if you often need to type with precision, a keyboard with a deeper keystroke would be better.
Key Type
Key type refers to the mechanism by which a keyboard key returns to its original position when pressed.
There are several types of this mechanism, each with different characteristics and typing feel.
There are three main types: membrane, pantograph, and mechanical, and they have the following characteristics.
It is important to choose a key type that suits your usage style and preferences.
[Membrane]
Membrane is the most common key type that has been used for many years, and has a rubber-like part called a rubber cup or rubber dome attached under the key.
When you press a key, this rubber is crushed, and when you release your finger, the rubber’s repulsive force returns the key to its original position.
This type requires you to press the key firmly, so your fingers may get tired if you type for a long time.
Membrane keyboards are affordable and are used in many office and home keyboards.
If you don’t type that often or want to keep your budget down, this type may be suitable.
[Pantograph]
Pantographs are often used in laptops and thin keyboards.
It uses the same rubber dome mechanism as the membrane, but the key structure uses an X-shaped “support axis”, which stabilizes the key and maintains a solid typing feel even in a thin type.
Thanks to this support axis, there is less wobble when pressing the key, allowing for smooth typing.
Because the pantograph keyboard is thin and light, it is suitable for people who carry it around a lot or who are used to laptops.
However, it is not as durable as a mechanical keyboard, so other types may be more suitable for people who type frequently.
[Mechanical]
Mechanical keyboards are characterized by the fact that each key has a built-in mechanical switch and spring.
This structure provides a very accurate response when you press the key, with the key sinking smoothly and the feeling of the spring quickly returning.
In particular, the “click” sound and feeling when you press the key is popular with many typing enthusiasts and gamers.
Mechanical keyboards are also very durable and comfortable even when typing for long periods of time, so they are suitable for frequent users and those who want to type accurately.
However, they tend to be more expensive than membrane or pantograph filters.
They can also be a little loud, so care should be taken when using them in quiet environments.
Connection Method
There are two main ways to connect a keyboard to a PC.
They are “wired connection” and “wireless connection“.
Both have advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose according to your environment and needs.
[Wired connection]
A wired connection is a method in which the keyboard and PC are directly connected with a cable.
The biggest advantage of this method is that it provides a stable connection.
Since it does not use radio waves, there is almost no delay or connection interruption due to radio interference.
In addition, since it does not use batteries, there is no need to worry about running out of battery.
It is often used in desktop environments that are used for long periods of time, and for work and games that require stable input.
However, it is important to be aware that cables can get in the way around your desk.
The cable may get tangled with other devices and be difficult to organize.
In environments where desk space is limited, the cables may become cluttered.
In such cases, accessories to organize cables and ideas for organizing the wiring can be useful.
[Wireless connection]
A wireless connection is a method of connecting a PC and keyboard without using a cable.
Generally, communication is performed using Bluetooth or a USB receiver.
The advantage of this method is that it does not require cables, so your desk can be kept neat and tidy.
You can also freely change the position of the keyboard, giving you the convenience of wireless.
This is especially useful when you want to operate your PC from anywhere in the room or when you want to operate multiple devices with one keyboard.
However, there are a few things to be aware of when connecting wirelessly.
First, if radio interference occurs, input may be delayed or the connection may become unstable.
In addition, wireless keyboards are battery-powered, so they need to be charged or the batteries replaced regularly.
If the battery runs out, there is a risk that the keyboard will suddenly become unusable, so care must be taken.
For example, if the battery runs out during an important presentation, you may not be able to proceed smoothly with your work.
As such, both connection methods have advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your environment.
A wired connection is convenient for a fixed desktop environment, but a wireless connection may be better for laptop users who move around a lot.
Whether or not it has a numeric keypad
When choosing a keyboard, whether or not it has a numeric keypad is an important point.
A numeric keypad is a set of dedicated numeric keys on the right side of the keyboard that are arranged for efficient input of numbers.
Whether or not it has a numeric keypad will greatly affect the purpose of use and the work content.
[Keyboards without numeric keypads]
Keyboards without a numeric keypad are called “tenkeyless” and feature a compact design.
Since the keyboard itself is smaller and lighter without a numeric keypad, it is convenient for people who have limited desk space or who carry it around a lot.
For example, this compactness is a major advantage when using it with a laptop in a cafe or coworking space.
Also, for users who do not enter numbers often, a keyboard without a numeric keypad is sufficient.
A numeric keyless keyboard is suitable for tasks that do not require frequent input of numbers, such as programming and writing.
In addition, since there is no need to move your hands a lot, it can also reduce the strain on your shoulders and arms.
[Keyboards with numeric keypads]
On the other hand, keyboards with numeric keypads are very convenient, especially for people who enter numbers frequently.
When working on accounting, data entry, or tasks that require extensive use of Excel, a numeric keypad allows you to enter numbers quickly.
Using a numeric keypad allows you to enter numbers smoothly without having to move your hands much from the home position, greatly improving work efficiency.
Keyboards with numeric keypads are physically larger, so they will take up some space on your desk, but if you enter numbers frequently, the convenience often outweighs the disadvantage of space.
As such, whether or not a keyboard has a numeric keypad is an important point to consider when choosing a keyboard.
If you don’t enter numbers often or if portability is important, you should choose a numeric keyless keyboard.
On the other hand, if you do accounting work or data entry, a keyboard with a numeric keypad is ideal.
Quietness
When working remotely from home or in a shared space, you may be bothered by the sound of keyboard keys.
In particular, if your family or colleagues are nearby, you need to be careful not to disturb them with loud keyboard sounds.
For this reason, we recommend choosing a keyboard with high noise levels.
[The importance of quietness]
With the spread of telework, there are more opportunities to work from home.
In such cases, you may want to work in a quiet environment or avoid other participants hearing the keyboard sounds during a meeting.
In particular, during video conferences such as Zoom and Teams, if the clicking sound of the keyboard is picked up by the microphone, it may be difficult to hear the conversation.
In such cases, a keyboard with high noise levels is useful.
[How to choose a quiet keyboard]
There are mainly two types of quiet keyboards.
The first type is a membrane or pantograph keyboard, which has a mechanism to reduce the sound when the keys are pressed.
These keyboards are suitable for use in the office or at home, and many of them are relatively inexpensive models.
The other type is a quiet mechanical keyboard.
Mechanical keyboards usually make a distinctive clicking sound when you press a key, but models equipped with silent switches can significantly reduce that sound.
Silent switch mechanical keyboards are popular among gamers and programmers, and they can reduce noise while maintaining a comfortable typing feel.
[Actual use example]
When working late at night, you may have to type while your family is sleeping.
In such a situation, using a silent keyboard allows you to continue working without disturbing your family.
In addition, even when used in an open office, you can create a quiet working environment that is considerate of those around you.
In this way, quietness is one of the important points when choosing a keyboard.
It is especially effective to choose a quiet model when working in a quiet environment or when you need to be considerate of others.
Layout
The layout of a keyboard varies depending on the number and layout of the keys.
Common layouts include “101 keys”, “104 keys”, and “106 keys”.
These are mainly distinguished by the number of keys and the location of some of the keys.
[Basic layout of alphabet keys]
The layout of the alphabet keys is basically the same in all layouts.
The English “QWERTY” layout is the standard for all keyboards.
Therefore, when typing, you can use any keyboard with the same feel.
This is especially convenient when switching between different types of keyboards.
Even if you alternate between a laptop keyboard and a desktop keyboard, the layout of the alphabet keys will not change, so you will quickly get used to it.
[Differences in special keys]
However, the layout and availability of special keys vary depending on the product.
The positions of the Windows key and Ctrl key may be different, and some keyboards may not have these keys.
In particular, the main difference between the 101-key and 104-key layouts is the presence or absence of a Windows key.
The 101-key layout does not have a Windows key, while the 104-key layout has an additional Windows key.
In addition, Japanese keyboards, such as 106 keys and 109 keys, have additional keys for entering “kana” in addition to the alphabet.
Japanese keyboards have keys for switching languages and entering symbols unique to Japanese, making them convenient for people who enter Japanese frequently.
[Choosing according to the usage scene]
It is a good idea to choose the keyboard layout according to the language you use and the work you are doing.
If you mainly enter English text, an English keyboard layout is convenient.
On the other hand, if you are entering data or doing work that requires a lot of shortcut keys, the placement of the Ctrl key and Windows key is important.
If these keys are placed in an easy-to-use location, your work efficiency will improve.
As such, the keyboard layout has a big impact on the ease of work and the language you use.
The layout of the alphabet keys is basically the same, but the placement of special keys and additional keys differs, so it is important to choose a layout that suits your work style.
Points to note about wireless keyboards
When choosing a wireless keyboard, it is important to choose the best type depending on the purpose and environment of use.
This is because the functions and designs required differ depending on the purpose and environment.
[How to choose according to the purpose of use]
When using a wireless keyboard for gaming purposes, reaction time is particularly important.
In games, it is advantageous to have a short time between pressing a key and the reaction, so the key is to choose a keyboard with low latency.
Specifically, a wireless keyboard for gaming equipped with low latency technology is suitable.
On the other hand, when using it for office use or teleworking at home, quietness is important.
If you need to work in a particularly quiet environment, choosing a model with low typing noise will allow you to work without disturbing those around you.
A membrane or pantograph type quiet type would be a good choice.
[Choosing according to the environment]
The environment in which you use the keyboard also affects your choice.
If you carry your keyboard around frequently or use it in a small space, a compact design is convenient.
A lightweight and easy-to-carry wireless keyboard can be used comfortably in a variety of places, such as business trips and cafes.
On the other hand, if you have a large desk environment, you will be able to work comfortably with a full-size keyboard.
A full-size keyboard is equipped with a numeric keypad and function keys, allowing for efficient data entry.
[Wireless connection stability]
In addition, when choosing a wireless keyboard, you should also pay attention to the stability of the connection.
Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connections are commonly used for wireless connections, but an unstable connection can cause delays and disconnections.
In particular, in crowded wireless environments, radio interference can occur, so it is important to choose a connection method that is suitable for the surrounding environment.
As such, when choosing a wireless keyboard, it is important to consider the purpose of use, environment, connection stability, etc.
By choosing a keyboard that suits you, you can improve your work efficiency and create a comfortable work environment.
Recommended User Reviews
[ELECOM TK-FDM110MKBK]
The ELECOM TK-FDM110MKBK is an antibacterial keyboard.
Antibacterial specifications refer to the fact that the surface of the keyboard is treated to prevent bacteria from growing.
This allows the keyboard to be kept hygienic even after long periods of use, making it particularly suitable for use in shared spaces and office environments.
In addition, it is highly quiet, so typing noise is low and there is no need to worry about disturbing people around you.
It can be used comfortably in a quiet office environment or when teleworking at home.
This model is an excellent choice for creating an environment where you can concentrate on your work.
[Logicool G Gaming Keyboard]
The Logitech G Gaming Keyboard is equipped with features specialized for games, and is particularly highly rated for its fast response speed and moderate typing feel.
A keyboard with a fast response speed is advantageous in situations where quick actions are required in the game.
In online competitive games, millisecond-by-millisecond operations can make the difference between victory and defeat, making this keyboard ideal for gamers.
In addition, the keyboard has a moderate typing feel, so it is designed to put less strain on your fingers even with long periods of use.
For gamers who want a comfortable experience, Logitech G is highly rated and is also a favorite of professional e-sports players.
As such, each keyboard has its own characteristics depending on its intended use, and both are designed to meet specific needs.
Features of a wireless mouse
As the name suggests, a wireless mouse has no cables, so your desk will be neat and tidy.
Without cables, you can move the mouse without worrying about it getting caught or tangled, allowing for more freedom and comfort.
Even when design work or games require fine movements, you can expect smooth operation without the hassle of cables.
In addition, it is convenient when using a computer on the go, such as for mobile work or presentations.
Wireless mice are easy to carry, and when used with a laptop, you can work efficiently even in limited spaces such as cafes and conference rooms.
However, wireless mice have the risk of running out of battery, so they require regular battery replacement and charging.
It is especially inconvenient if the battery runs out during an important presentation, so it is important to check in advance.
Thus, while wireless mice are highly convenient, they also require battery management, so choose one that takes this into consideration.
Thus, wireless mice are suitable for free movement and mobile work, and you can choose one that suits your specific needs and lifestyle.
Recommended User Reviews
The Logitech MX Master 3s has been highly praised by many users for its high precision and comfortable operability.
The precision is especially useful for tasks that require fine movements, such as design work and programming.
In addition, thanks to its ergonomic design that fits your hand, it is also attractive that it does not tire you out even when used for long periods of time.
For design professionals and engineers, operability and fatigue resistance are very important points.
On the other hand, the MX ERGO Advanced Wireless Trackball is a type of device that allows you to operate the trackball with your fingers without moving the mouse.
It is especially recommended for those who have limited desk space or who want to minimize wrist movement.
Trackball mice are effective for those who have a small desk in their office or who are concerned about wrist fatigue.
Users also appreciate the fact that the angle can be adjusted, allowing you to work in a more comfortable position.
As such, each mouse has different characteristics, so it is important to choose one according to your purpose and usage environment.
Wireless keyboard and mouse set
Wireless keyboard and mouse sets are popular as a very convenient and functional option.
When you buy a set product, you get both the keyboard and mouse at once, so it is less expensive than buying them separately and there is less chance of compatibility issues.
However, you must also consider issues specific to wireless connections.
It is important to take preventative measures as there is a possibility of radio interference between wireless devices and battery exhaustion.
If the signal is unstable, move the device away from other wireless devices or devise an arrangement to avoid radio interference.
In addition, performance will decrease if the battery is low, so it is also necessary to check the battery regularly.
In addition, cleaning the keyboard and mouse as part of regular maintenance and installing the latest driver software are also effective measures to use them comfortably for a long time.
Recommended User Reviews
[Logitech MK245nBK set]
This set features a reliable wireless connection and a long-lasting battery.
You can use it for long periods of time, especially in the office or at home, without worrying about how often you need to change the batteries.
The wireless connection is very stable and there are almost no sudden disconnections, which increases work efficiency.
[Logitech MK235 set]
This set features a quiet design and a slim design, which is popular with many users.
The keyboard makes almost no typing noise, making it ideal for those who want to maintain a quiet environment.
It is useful if you want to work at night without waking up your family, or if you want to work in an open space and not disturb those around you.
[ELECOM TK-FDM063BK set]
This set is antibacterial and quiet, providing a hygienic and quiet operating environment.
It is particularly praised for its antibacterial treatment, which keeps the keyboard and mouse, which are frequently touched, clean.
When used in an office or shared space, it also has benefits from the perspective of infection prevention.
[Sanwa Supply SKB-WL25SETW Set]
This product offers excellent cost performance and stable wireless connection.
It is recommended for those who are trying wireless products for the first time because it is affordable and provides stable performance.
Conclusion
When choosing a product, it is important to first choose one that suits your usage environment and preferences.
You can also find highly rated products by referring to reviews from other users.
Now, I will tell you the conclusion of this time.
The administrator of this blog accidentally spilled plum wine on the keyboard.
I thought I wiped it thoroughly, but the keyboard only moved slowly like a turtle…
In the end, I decided to buy a new keyboard!
I chose the Logitech KX850FL MX MECHANICAL Wireless Mechanical Performance Keyboard (red axis, linear, with numeric keypad, silent design).
