Mechanical keyboards are all the rage these days, with people spending hundreds of dollars just to get the best one they can find. But what exactly makes a mechanical keyboard so special? The customization? The feel? The sound?
The answer is all of the above, and more. But one of the most important aspects of a mechanical keyboard is the plate that sits underneath the key switches. This is what gives the keyboard its rigidity, and it also affects the sound and feel of the keyboard.
It has long been debated which metal produces the best sound for a keyboard: brass or aluminum? Some people swear by the warm, rich sound of brass, while others find aluminum to be brighter and more tinny. Let’s take a closer look at both metals and see which one comes out on top.
Table of Contents
- What are Brass Keyboard Plates
- What are Aluminum Keyboard Plates?
- Brass Vs Aluminum Plate Comparisons
- Which Keyboard Plate Should You Buy?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Brass Plate for the Keyboard Good?
- Is the Aluminum Plate for the Keyboard Better?
- What Plate is More Suitable for a Keyboard?
- What Does a Brass Plate do for a Keyboard?
- What Does an Aluminum Plate do for a Keyboard?
- Do Brass Plates Oxidize?
- How to Clean Brass Plates?
- How to Prevent Brass Plates from Tarnishing?
- Final Words
What are Brass Keyboard Plates
Brass plates are getting popular in the mechanical keyboard world because they offer a unique sound that is different from aluminum. The sound of a brass plate is usually described as being warmer and more mellow, while still retaining a good amount of clarity. Although these sounds can be disturbing for heavy typists, however, the deep, rich tones can be rather soothing for some people.
Advantages of Brass Keyboard Plates
The main advantage of brass keyboard plates is the sound. The mellower, warmer tones are perfect for people who want a more relaxing typing experience. The sound is also said to be more “pleasing to the ear” than the sound of aluminum.
Another advantage of brass keyboard plates is the weight. Brass is a heavier metal than aluminum, so it gives the keyboard a little more heft and stability. This can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on your preferences. Some people like the feeling of a heavier keyboard, while others find it to be too much.
Disadvantages of Brass Keyboard Plates
There’s one major disadvantage of brass keyboard plates, which is tarnishing. Brass can tarnish over time, especially if it’s exposed to oxygen and moisture. This can cause the keyboard to develop a patina, which some people find to be attractive. Others, however, prefer the look of a clean, shiny keyboard.
If you’re considering a brass keyboard plate, be sure to research how to care for it properly. You’ll need to clean it frequently to prevent tarnishing, and you may need to apply a clear coat to protect the finish.
Another disadvantage of brass keyboard plates is the cost. Brass is a more expensive metal than aluminum, so you can expect to pay more for a keyboard with a brass plate.
What are Aluminum Keyboard Plates?
Aluminum keyboard plates are the most popular type of plate on the market. They offer a bright, clear sound that is perfect for people who want a more lively typing experience. The sound of an aluminum keyboard plate has been described as being “crisp” and “snappy.” However, you can always identify an aluminum keyboard by the high-pitched “ping” sound it makes when you bottom out the keys.
Advantages of Aluminum Keyboard Plates
The main advantage of aluminum keyboard plates is the price. Aluminum is a cheaper metal than brass, so you can find some great deals on aluminum keyboard plates.
These aluminum plates are also lighter in weight than brass plates. This can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on your preferences. Some people like the feeling of a lighter keyboard, while others find it to be too “flimsy.”
Disadvantages of Aluminum Keyboard Plates
There are two main disadvantages of aluminum keyboard plates. The first is that they can be noisy. The high-pitched “ping” sound can be disturbing for some people, and it can also be a distraction in a quiet office or home.
The second disadvantage of aluminum keyboard plates is that they’re not as durable as brass plates. Aluminum is a softer metal, so it’s more susceptible to dents and scratches. If you’re looking for a keyboard that will last for years, brass is the better option.
Brass Vs Aluminum Plate Comparisons
Now that you know the advantages and disadvantages of brass and aluminum keyboard plates, you can decide which one is right for you. But, here in this section, we’re going to make it even easier for you by comparing these plates with different factors in mind. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
Density of Plate
The first factor to consider is the density of the plate. Brass is a denser metal than aluminum, so it’s going to be heavier. Aluminum, on the other hand, is a lighter metal. This can make the keyboard feel “flimsier,” but some people prefer the lightness.
This can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on your preferences. Some people like the feeling of a heavier keyboard, while others find it too “clunky.” However, you might think that the higher the desity, the better the quality. This is not always the case as some lower density metals are actually stronger than their high density counterparts. For example, most people prefer stainless steel keyboard plates over others because they bring great typing experience while being less likely to bend.
Cost of Plate
The next factor to consider is the cost of the plate. Brass is a more expensive metal than aluminum, so you can expect to pay more for a keyboard with a brass plate. Aluminum is a cheaper metal, so you’ll be able to find some great deals on aluminum keyboard plates.
However, brass plates are not that expensive when compared with aluminum plates. These plates often come with a max $20-$30 difference. So, the cost should not be a make-or-break factor when deciding between brass and aluminum keyboard plates
Sound of Plate
The sound of the plate is another important factor to consider. Brass plates have a warmer, fuller sound that some people find to be more pleasant than the sound of an aluminum plate. Aluminum plates have a brighter, clearer sound that is perfect for people who want a more lively typing experience. The sound of an aluminum keyboard plate has been described as being “crisp” and “snappy.” However, you can always identify an aluminum keyboard by the high-pitched “ping” sound it makes when you bottom out the keys.
Some people find this sound to be irritating, while others don’t mind it. It’s really a matter of personal preference. If you’re sensitive to noise, you might want to opt for a brass plate keyboard. But, if you don’t mind the sound, an aluminum keyboard might be just what you’re looking for.
Durability of Plate
Durability is always dependent on the density of the plate. Heavier brass plates are more durable than lighter aluminum plates. This is because brass is a denser metal, so it’s more resistant to dents and scratches. Aluminum is a softer metal, so it’s more susceptible to damage.
However, some aluminum keyboard plates are anodized. This process hardens the metal and makes it more resistant to scratches and dents. So, if you’re looking for an aluminum keyboard that will last for years, make sure it has an anodized finish.
Which Keyboard Plate Should You Buy?
So, which plate should you buy? Honestly, this is more of a personal preference than anything else. If you’re looking for a keyboard that will sound good, durable, and last for years, brass is the better option. But, if you’re looking for a keyboard that’s cheaper and has a more lively sound, aluminum is the way to go.
These keyboard plates allow your keyboard switches to be mounted on the back of the keyboard, which gives the switches a solid foundation. This results in a more stable typing experience and can help to reduce key chatter. If you’re looking for a keyboard that will give you a great typing experience, we recommend choosing a keyboard with a brass or aluminum plate.
But, before choosing any keyboard, make sure to do your research. Price, Durability, Sound, and Density are all important factors to consider before purchasing a keyboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Brass Plate for the Keyboard Good?
Brass is an excellent material for keyboard plates. It’s durable, sounds great, and gives your keyboard a solid foundation. If you’re looking for a keyboard that will last for years and provide a great typing experience, we recommend choosing a keyboard with a brass plate.
Is the Aluminum Plate for the Keyboard Better?
Aluminum is also a great material for keyboard plates. It’s cheaper than brass, sounds good, and is perfect for people who want a more lively typing experience. If you’re looking for a keyboard that’s cheaper and has a more lively sound, we recommend choosing an aluminum keyboard.
What Plate is More Suitable for a Keyboard?
This is more of a personal preference than anything else. If you’re looking for a keyboard that will sound good, durable, and last for years, brass is the better option. But, if you’re looking for a keyboard that’s cheaper and has a more lively sound, aluminum is the way to go.
What Does a Brass Plate do for a Keyboard?
A brass plate gives your keyboard switches a solid foundation. This results in a more stable typing experience and can help to reduce key chatter. If you’re looking for a keyboard that will give you a great typing experience, we recommend choosing a keyboard with a brass plate.
What Does an Aluminum Plate do for a Keyboard?
An aluminum plate also gives your keyboard switches a solid foundation. However, aluminum is a softer metal, so it’s more susceptible to damage. If you’re looking for an aluminum keyboard that will last for years, make sure it has an anodized finish. Anodizing will harden the metal and make it more resistant to scratches and dents.
Do Brass Plates Oxidize?
Brass plates can oxidize over time. However, the rate of oxidation will depend on the environment. If you live in a humid climate, your brass keyboard might oxidize faster than if you lived in a dry climate. To help prevent oxidation, we recommend storing your keyboard in a cool, dry place. You can also purchase a brass keyboard plate that has been treated with a clear lacquer. This will help to protect the brass from oxidizing.
How to Clean Brass Plates?
You can clean brass plates with a variety of household products. For example, you can use vinegar, lemon juice, or baking soda. Just make sure to rinse the plate off with water after cleaning it. You can also purchase a brass cleaner from your local hardware store.
How to Prevent Brass Plates from Tarnishing?
You can prevent brass plates from tarnishing by storing them in a cool, dry place. You can also purchase a brass plate that has been treated with a clear lacquer. This will help to protect the brass from oxidizing.
Final Words
In this era of gaming, modern mechanical keyboards offer gamers a lot of customization to fit their playing style. Different types of materials are used in the construction of keyboard plates, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Brass and aluminum are two of the most popular materials for keyboard plates.
When choosing a keyboard, it’s important to consider the material of the plate. Brass and aluminum are both great materials that offer different benefits. If you’re looking for a keyboard that will last for years and provide a great typing experience, we recommend choosing a keyboard with a brass plate. But, if you’re looking for a keyboard that’s cheaper and has a more lively sound, aluminum is the way to go.
However, in the end, it all depends on your personal preference and the price you can afford to spend on your keyboard.
