The easiest way to adapt to a new keyboard is to use it frequently. Begin typing and observe the differences between your old and new keyboard. With practice, the transition will become smoother, and you’ll acclimate to your new keyboard in no time.
Switching to new hardware can present challenges, as your muscle memory takes time to adjust to new devices. You may face difficulties when changing from a membrane keyboard to a mechanical one, using a gaming keyboard, or adapting to different sizes and layouts. Key spacing and the presence of additional keys on larger keyboards can also require adjustment.
I understand these challenges and have created this guide to help you get used to your new keyboard quickly and efficiently.
Understanding the use of your keyboard
First and foremost, it’s important to evaluate how frequently and for how long you use your computer and keyboard. The more you rely on your keyboard, the more significant an impact a change will have on your experience.
If you primarily use your computer for leisure activities such as browsing social media, watching videos, or reading the news, you likely won’t encounter much difficulty adjusting to any new keyboard. With minimal keyboard usage, you’ll likely feel comfortable on any model, and the change will have minimal effect on your experience.
On the other hand, if your keyboard use is more work-oriented, such as frequently typing emails, writing articles, editing videos, gaming, or graphic design, finding the ideal keyboard for your needs becomes essential. If you’re not yet accustomed to a new keyboard, it may temporarily impact your work speed and efficiency.
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The different kinds of keyboards available
The initial purchase of your computer and accessories was sufficient for your needs. As time passed, specialized hardware became available in the market, technology evolved, and older ones became obsolete.
Gamers, in particular, are quick to upgrade their hardware. But over long periods, other users also feel the need to change the traditional one for newer ones as it comes with better features.
There are various kinds of keyboards available, and the two primary types of keyboards are the membrane-style keyboard and the mechanical keyboard. The membrane one makes lower noise, relatively.
Membrane keyboard
The membrane-styled keyboard has three layers, each of which is pressure-sensitive, and keys lie on different parts of the membrane. Application of pressure in the specific area gives a keystroke.
The keys of the keyboard are placed on a layer of rubber that covers the circuit. When you press a button, the rubber is pushed and consecutively the circuit.
The circuit then sends this information to the CPU, and we see the output on the screen. The keyboard is an economical one.
The best example of this is Logitech G213. Other examples include the Typematrix 2030 Reach Keyboard and Rii RK100+
Mechanical keyboard
A mechanical keyboard has individual keys for each letter and symbol. When a key is pressed, it connects to a switch and registers a keystroke.
Unlike membrane keyboards, mechanical keyboards do not have a rubber layer or membrane beneath the keys. Instead, each key has its mechanism that activates when pressed, sending a signal to the CPU. The output is then displayed on the screen. Mechanical keyboards tend to be more expensive than membrane keyboards.
Examples of mechanical keyboards include the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL, Corsair K95 RGB Platinum XT, and others.
Now it’s high time to go to some useful tips and tricks on how to get used to a new keyboard topic.
Tips and Tricks For Getting Used To a New Keyboard
I will now discuss a few measures that come in handy to help you adjust to the new keyboard.
Tip 1: Familiarize Yourself With The New Keyboard
When adjusting to a new keyboard, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the key placement. Spend some time studying the layout and identifying any differences from your previous keyboard. It may be helpful to type out some common words or phrases to get a feel for the new arrangement.
Function keys and keyboard shortcuts can significantly enhance your productivity. Make sure to review the available function keys (F1-F12) and their specific uses on your new keyboard. Additionally, learn any new shortcuts or combinations that your keyboard supports, as these can save you time when performing repetitive tasks.
Tip 2: Practice typing
Touch typing is a technique that allows you to type without looking at the keys, relying on muscle memory to locate the correct keys.
To develop this skill, start by placing your fingers on the home row and practice typing simple words or sentences. Gradually increase the complexity of the text, and resist the urge to look down at the keys.
There are numerous online typing practice tools available to help you improve your speed and accuracy. Websites like TypingClub or 10FastFingers offer typing exercises and games designed to help you get comfortable with your new keyboard.
Consider using these resources to monitor your progress and set personal benchmarks. To track your improvement, set specific goals for both speed and accuracy. Start by determining your baseline typing speed and aim to increase it incrementally over time.
PS If you really want to improve your writing speed, you may also find the below video useful:
Tip 3: Give Yourself Time to Adapt to Ergonomic Changes
Proper wrist and hand positioning is really important for preventing strain and injury. Ensure that your wrists are in a neutral position, neither flexed nor extended. Your fingers should be relaxed and slightly curved, hovering above the keys without resting heavily on them.
To further enhance comfort, adjust the angle and height of your keyboard to suit your preferences. Many keyboards come with adjustable feet, allowing you to change the incline. Additionally, consider using a keyboard tray or riser to find the optimal height for your setup.
Tip 4: Patience in learning
Adjusting to something new always takes time, and getting used to a new keyboard is no exception. The steps outlined above can help guide you through the process, but practice and dedication are essential. With consistent effort, you’ll soon find yourself typing comfortably on your new keyboard.
There’s no need to worry or feel overwhelmed by this transition. Every device can be enjoyable to use; all it requires is patience and consistent practice. Remember to relax and embrace the learning process. Within a week or two, you’ll likely become well-accustomed to your new keyboard.
If, after a few weeks, you still find yourself struggling with key spacing and making frequent typos, you may want to consider trying a different keyboard size. Keyboards are often designed for medium-sized hands; if you have larger or smaller hands, it might be more comfortable to choose a keyboard that better suits your needs.
How to Get Used to Typing On a Mechanical Keyboard?
Transitioning to a mechanical keyboard can be a rewarding experience due to the improved tactile feedback, increased durability, and customization options. Here are some tips specific to mechanical keyboards to help you out:
Choose the right switches
Mechanical keyboards come with different types of switches, such as linear, tactile, and clicky. Each type offers a distinct feel and actuation force. Research and test different switches to find the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
Adjust typing force
Mechanical switches may require different levels of force compared to membrane keyboards. Initially, you might find yourself either pressing keys too hard or not hard enough. Over time, you’ll learn to apply the right amount of force for each keystroke.
How Long Does It Take To Get Used To A New Keyboard?
The time it takes to get used to a new keyboard is usually something between two to three weeks.
This time can vary greatly from person to person, depending on factors such as typing habits, keyboard familiarity, and the amount of practice invested.
For some people, it may only take a few days to adjust, while for others, it could take several weeks.
Regular practice and patience are crucial in adapting to a new keyboard. Remember, individual experiences will differ, so focus on your progress and give yourself time to become comfortable with the new keyboard.
My Final Thoughts / Your Key Takeaways
- Familiarize yourself with the new keyboard layout, function keys, and shortcuts.
- Practice touch typing techniques to build muscle memory.
- Utilize online typing practice tools to improve speed and accuracy.
- Adapt to ergonomic changes, including wrist and hand positioning, keyboard angle, and height adjustments.
- Be patient and give yourself time to adjust to your new keyboard.
- Consider different keyboard sizes if you’re still struggling with key spacing and typos after a few weeks.
- Mechanical keyboard users should choose the right switches and adjust typing force.
- The time it takes to get used to a new keyboard varies, with most people needing two to three weeks.
