Low Profile Vs High Profile Mechanical Keyboards

Along with different sizes and form factors, there are two options available for mechanical keyboards to buy. You can either opt for a low-profile keyboard or you can go with the most preferred normal high-profile keyboards.

Although height is the major difference between both profiles, the shape of separate key rows could be the prominent difference. These are the basic differences though but both carry many other factors, which might affect efficiency and productivity.

Nonetheless, with all factors involved, the high or low profile of the keyboard is primarily a matter of requirements or preference from the user end. You can try chiclet-style laptop-like low-profile keyboards if you don’t feel like using chunky and thick mechanical keyboards. Honestly, none of them can be declared any better than the other as both have some plus points and limitations that you must know before making a decision.

Those who don’t know the factors of difference between both options can get confused and could face problems getting the most suitable keyboard for their needs and preferences. Here in this post, we will be comparing both profile options of mechanical keyboards as well as enlightening you with the pros and cons of low profile & normal high-profile keyboards.

Let’s get into the article on low-profile keyboards vs normal high-profile keyboards.

What are Low Profile Keyboards?

The profile of the keyboard describes the key profile in the keyboard and refers to the switch design and keycap height collectively. A low profile keyboard in general is the keyboard type having shorter and slimmer keys with lower keycaps height than normal profile keyboards. The switches in the low-profile keyboards are placed on top of the board rather than the floating-fixed keyboards.

The height difference is however formed by slimming the frame of the keyboard and decreasing the height of switches and keycaps. The first impression of the low-profile keyboard may sound unnatural to some people since smaller computer peripherals seem hard to use and they are mainly designed to fulfill the purpose of compactness.

Further, the limited height and other engineered modifications make low-profile keyboards highly agronomical and portable than other options.

If it is about mechanical keyboards, normal high-profile keyboards are pretty much the option that is highly preferable, still, low-profile keyboards are supported by a huge fan base as well. The slimmest body of the keyboard grants users the ability to type precisely & fluently without putting extra pressure on the wrist. The low-profile keyboards can be the best option for typing and gaming as the key switches pose less travel distance to offer a great response time than normal mechanical keyboards.

What are High Profile Keyboards?

High-profile keyboards are the normal type of keyboards, which are common in the market with clunky and thick bodies including high switches stuck in them. These keyboards are termed normal mechanical keyboards unlike ‘high profile in general. These normal keyboards have good height with a combination of the switches’ design and the height of the keycaps.

However, standard keyboards are less portable and ergonomic with normal mechanical switches and keycaps but they offer an array of switches variety and are incredibly popular among enthusiasts for quite fair reasons. Such keyboards actually have the majority shares in the market while there are limited options for low-profile keyboards that hit the market.

Low Profile Vs. High Profile Keyboards – Differences & Comparison

Let’s take a look at the significant differences between low-profile and high-profile keyboards, at the same time we will be comparing both types of keyboards just to know which one can serve your purpose well.

Portability

The clear difference in portability can be seen as the low-profile keyboards are fairly smaller in height than normal profile keyboards. In contrast to normal keyboards, low profile boards are designed smaller with very limited height to make them lightweight & easier to carry and use. Most of these keyboards are as thin as laptops thus they are easier to carry into bags or backpacks to travel or move around with. Whereas, the wireless option in low-profile keyboards benefits the purpose of portability for users who have to frequently travel for business.

High-profile or standard keyboards on the other side, are quite heavy and tall and have chunky key switches that make them less portable. Although you can find a variety of wireless options in normal keyboards, considering the bulky design, chunky switches, and weight, they are not compact enough to carry around.

Based on the comparison, low-profile keyboards are portable enough to bring everywhere, they are most suitable when you go on a trip or you have to work in a hybrid environment where you have to bring peripherals at home or anywhere else for quite some time for working.

Height & Size

As the name indicates, low-profile keyboards have a lower height or profile, however, normal keyboards are of good height. The height of low-profile keyboards is around half or less of the height of normal-profile keyboards. The most significant difference can be noticed immediately in one look. The height of such keyboards lies somewhere in the middle of chiclet and high-profile keyboards.

Primarily the height of keyboards consists of some essential factors including switches, body/frame, and keycaps. Therefore, low-profile options have small structures, slimmer switches, and keycaps while the case with regular keyboards is totally the opposite.

Even though the Apple Magic keyboard is still lower than low profile boards, the modification in height makes such keyboards more compact, lighter, and easier. It is one of the key factors increasing demand for low-profile keyboards in the market.

The leaner keyboards have switches called low-profile switches that are specially designed to provide a good feeling while typing. Nonetheless, the height difference between low-profile switches and normal keyboard switches deeply affects the actuation point which leads to better performance. Similarly, the size of keycaps between both kinds of keyboards is another major difference and factor of comparison. Normal keycaps cannot fit with low-profile switches due to their different manufacturing style and large size.

The keycaps though are not as slim as the chiclet keyboards’ keycaps but still are shorter compared to standard keycaps.

Switches

As mentioned earlier, low-profile switches offer considerably low-key travel distance than regular switches, shorter actuation point is considered great for faster input and typing feel. However, you will have to invest some time to adapt to typing on low-profile keyboards due to the feel of the keys.

Normal switches are however not good in terms of actuation point, but the variety of mechanical switches requires the lowest actuation force with a clicky or tactile feel making them satisfying to type on.

Typing

The short travel time and quick activation are the factors that play a crucial role while typing. Low-profile keyboards provide faster and more accurate typing sessions. Similarly, the ergonomic factor of these peripherals increases the comfort level for people who have to type or work for the whole day. If you are considering switching from a laptop, low-profile options are a great pick for typing/working and even gaming.

Low-profile Cherry MX and Logitech GL switches are the best low-profile mechanical switches for the quickest typing and gaming session with 1mm to 1.5mm of activation.

Gaming

Normal mechanical keyboards are expressly designed having gamers in mind that’s why such keyboards are highly popular among the faculty of pro gamers and enthusiasts around the globe.

If you are an enthusiast or willing to make a future in professional gaming, switching to a high-profile mechanical keyboard can be your first step to prosperity.

Ergonomics

In regards to ergonomics, low-profile keyboards dominate the standard keyboards and the advantage of lower-profile keys takes the lead. You do not need to raise your wrist too high on low-profile keyboards for typing, making these options highly comfortable to type on.

For a precise and faster typing experience, shorter key switches result in less stress on hands or wrists so that the chances of wrist pain or carpal tunnel is reduced to almost none.

Long-term typing on normal keyboards, on the other hand, requires users to put a hand in a bending position when they have their wrist on the table while their fingers are on the keys, which may cause many wrist-related issues. That’s why wrist rest is often used with normal profile keyboards to save from damage to some extent caused by using these keyboards, while the slim design and shorter height of low-profile boards ultimately make the ergonomics better by keeping the angle of the wrist less bent.

Customization, Modification & Availability

Customization is the factor in which normal mechanical keyboards outplayed low-profile options. Low-profile keyboards are not customizable in general, and those who love keyboard modding should not consider low-profile options.

Not only the standard keycaps compatibility is a problematic part but there are also limited options for low-profile keycaps and switches available than full-sized or standard mechanical keyboards. You will have a hard time finding keycaps and switches for a low-profile keyboard if you like to switch for a good change.

Whereas you can go limitless with customization and modification in high-profile keyboards as they provide options for just about everyone.

Availability is another field in which low-profile keyboard fall short, considering the demand account only a few companies are producing low-profile keyboards which make the selection even harder.

Low Profile Keyboards vs. High Profile Keyboards comparison

Are low-profile switches better?

Whether low-profile switches are better than traditional high-profile switches depends on your personal preferences and intended usage.

Low-profile switches have a shorter key travel distance and a flatter design, which can make typing more comfortable and ergonomic for some users. They can also be quieter than high-profile switches, which may be beneficial in a shared workspace or if you’re typing late at night.

However, low-profile switches can also require a lower actuation force to activate, which can lead to more typos for some users. They also tend to provide less tactile feedback, which some people may find less satisfying to type on.

On the other hand, high-profile switches have a longer key travel distance and a more traditional design, which can make typing more comfortable for some users and more suitable for gaming, and heavy typing as well. They can also have a more satisfying tactile feedback and can be more durable.

Ultimately, it’s important to try out different types of switches to see which one feels the most comfortable and responsive to you. You can do this by going to a store or borrowing a keyboard that has a different switch type than you’re used to, or purchasing a keyboard with a switch that’s easily replaceable so you can try different switches.

Do you type faster on low-profile keyboards?

Low-profile keyboards have a shorter key travel distance and a flatter design which can make typing feel more comfortable and ergonomic for some people, but it does not necessarily make someone type faster.

Research has shown that the speed and accuracy of typing can depend on a variety of factors, including keyboard layout, finger size and dexterity, and the user’s typing technique. Additionally, the typing speed may vary on the individual and if they are used to a specific switch or profile. It is possible that some users may find that they type faster on a low profile keyboard, while others may find that a high-profile keyboard is better for them.

It’s also important to note that typing speed is not the only factor that determines how suitable a keyboard is for a person. Other factors such as the ergonomics, sound level, and overall feel of the keyboard also play an important role. Therefore, the best keyboard for an individual will depend on their specific needs and preferences.

In general, it’s best to try out different types of keyboards, with different profiles and switches, to see which one feels the most comfortable and responsive to you, and then you can decide what is the best choice for you.

Why buy a low-profile keyboard?

There are several reasons why someone might choose to buy a low profile keyboard over a traditional high profile keyboard.

1. Ergonomics: Low profile keyboards have a flatter design and shorter key travel distance which can make typing more comfortable and ergonomic for some users, particularly those who experience pain or discomfort in their hands or wrists.
2. Aesthetics: Low profile keyboards have a sleek and minimalist design which may be preferred by users who value a clean, modern look for their desk set-up.
3. Sound level: Low profile switches are usually quieter than high profile switches which can be beneficial in a shared workspace or if you’re typing late at night.
4. Portability: Low profile keyboards are often smaller and more lightweight which make them more portable and easier to pack up and take on the go.
5. Customizability: Low profile mechanical keyboard are becoming more popular and some models allows for easily replaceable keycaps, giving users the ability to personalize the look of their keyboard.
6. Fewer Typos: Low profile switches tend to have a lower actuation force, which can lead to fewer typos.

Keep in mind that personal preferences, usage, and typing habits can play a big role in determining whether a low profile keyboard would be a good choice for an individual. It’s often best to try out different types of keyboards to see which one feels the most comfortable and responsive for you.

What is the point of a low-profile keyboard?

A low-profile keyboard is a type of keyboard that has a flatter, more minimalist design with keys that sit closer to the desk surface compared to traditional high-profile keyboards. The main point of a low-profile keyboard is to provide an alternative typing experience that is more comfortable and ergonomic for some users.

1. Ergonomics: Low-profile keyboards are designed to reduce the amount of bending in the user’s fingers and wrists which can be beneficial for people who experience pain or discomfort from typing on a traditional keyboard.
2. Aesthetics: Low-profile keyboards have a sleek, minimalist design that can complement a modern work or gaming setup, and the low-profile design can help the keyboard to take up less space on your desk.
3. Sound level: Low-profile switches usually generate less sound than high-profile switches which can be beneficial in a shared workspace or if you’re typing late at night.
4. Portability: Low-profile keyboards are often smaller and more lightweight which makes them more portable and easier to pack up and take on the go.
5. Customizability: Some low-profile mechanical keyboard models allow for easily replaceable keycaps, giving users the ability to personalize the look of their keyboard.

As with any keyboard, it’s best to try out different types of low-profile keyboards to see which one feels the most comfortable and responsive for you and fits your needs and preferences.

What is the point of a high-profile keyboard?

A high-profile keyboard is a type of keyboard that has a traditional design with keys that sit higher above the desk surface compared to low-profile keyboards. The main point of a high-profile keyboard is to provide a typing experience that is more familiar and comfortable for some users.

1. Comfort: High-profile keyboards have a more traditional design that can be more familiar and comfortable for some users who have been using traditional keyboards for a long time.
2. Typing Feedback: High-profile switches usually generate more tactile feedback, providing a more satisfying typing experience.
3. Gaming: High-profile keyboard can be preferred by some gamers as the extra key travel distance makes them more comfortable for gaming and can provide more room for finger movement.
4. Durability: High-profile switches are usually more durable and can last longer.
5. Customizability: High-profile keyboard usually comes with replaceable keycaps, which can be used to personalize the look of their keyboard.
6. Price: High-profile keyboard can be less expensive than low-profile keyboard.

Keep in mind that personal preferences and typing habits play a big role in determining whether a high-profile keyboard would be a good choice for an individual. It’s often best to try out different types of keyboards to see which one feels the most comfortable and responsive for you and fits your needs and preferences.

Is low-profile good for gaming?

Low-profile keyboards can be a good choice for gaming, but it ultimately depends on the user’s preferences and typing habits.

1. Ergonomics: Low-profile keyboards have a flatter design and shorter key travel distance which can make typing more comfortable and ergonomic for some users, even while gaming.
2. Portability: Low-profile keyboards are often smaller and more lightweight which makes them more portable and easier to pack up and take on the go for LAN parties or events.
3. Sound level: Low-profile switches are usually quieter than high-profile switches which can be beneficial in a shared living space or if you’re gaming late at night.
4. Customizability: Some low-profile mechanical keyboard models allow for easily replaceable keycaps, giving users the ability to personalize the look of their keyboard.

However, some gamers may prefer the longer key travel distance and tactile feedback provided by high-profile switches which can provide a more satisfying and responsive gaming experience. Additionally, as low-profile keyboards tend to have a flatter design, gamers may find that the finger movement may feel more cramped.

Ultimately, whether a low-profile keyboard is good for gaming or not depends on the individual user’s preferences and typing habits. It’s often best to try out different types of keyboards to see which one feels the most comfortable and responsive for gaming.

Are low profile switches better?

Low profile switches are a type of mechanical keyboard switch that is designed to be thinner and lighter than traditional switches. This design is intended to make the keyboard quieter and less bulky. Low profile switches provide a shorter travel distance, faster actuation, and a lighter actuation force than traditional switches.

The most common type of low profile switch is the Cherry MX Low Profile switch. This switch has a travel distance of3.2 mm and an actuation force of 45g. Compared to the standard Cherry MX switch, which has a travel distance of 4.0mm and an actuation force of 60g, the low profile switch is significantly lighter and faster.

This makes it ideal for gaming and other fast-paced activities. The main benefit of low-profile switches is that they are quieter and require less effort to actuate. This makes them ideal for people who type a lot, as they won’t have to press the keys as hard or as often. Low profile switches also provide a more comfortable typing experience, as the shorter travel distance requires less movement of the fingers. In addition, low-profile switches are more aesthetically pleasing than traditional switches because of their slim design. This can be a great advantage for those who want to use their keyboards as a centerpiece in their gaming setup or office.

Overall, low-profile switches are a great choice for people who are looking for a quieter, faster, and more comfortable typing experience. They are not necessarily better than traditional switches, but for those who want a more modern look and feel, they can be a great option.

Are low-profile keyboards faster?

Low profile keyboards are keyboards that are thinner and more compact than traditional keyboards. They are typically more ergonomic, as they require less movement of the wrists and fingers to type. Low profile keyboards typically offer better tactile feedback than traditional keyboards, which can help reduce strain on your hands and arms.

Although low profile keyboards are not necessarily faster than traditional keyboards, they can reduce fatigue and make typing easier. The shorter key travel distance of low profile keyboards allows you to type faster, as the distance your fingers have to travel to reach the keys is shorter. This means you can type faster and with less effort than with a traditional keyboard. Low profile keyboards also typically feature a lower actuation force, meaning the keys require less effort to press down.

This can make typing faster, as you don’t have to press down as hard to trigger the key. Low profile keyboards may also be better for gaming, as they tend to allow for faster and more precise keystrokes. This is because the shorter key travel distance allows for faster response times and more precise keystrokes.

This can be especially beneficial for gamers who are trying to increase their reaction time and accuracy in games. Overall, low-profile keyboards are not necessarily faster than traditional keyboards, but they can offer a number of benefits that can make typing faster and more comfortable. They feature shorter key travel distances, lower actuation force, and better tactile feedback that can make typing faster, more comfortable, and more accurate.

Low Profile Keyboards vs. High Profile Keyboards – Verdict

Both high-profile and low-profile Alice keyboards have their separate pros, cons, and most importantly support groups, so it’s better to get the one that suits your personal preferences and environment.

They both provide significant benefits for various situations, low profile boards are ergonomic, compact, and highly portable, and normal-style keyboards are extremely supported by world-class players and a big crowd of enthusiasts.