Apple’s keyboard technology has evolved significantly over the years, particularly in terms of the typing experience. Let’s explore the transition from mechanical keyboards to the infamous butterfly mechanism and back to scissor switches:
- Mechanical Keyboards (1980s-1990s): Early Apple keyboards used mechanical switches known for their tactile feedback and audible keypresses. These keyboards offered a satisfying typing experience but were bulkier.
- Scissor-Switch Keyboards (2000s-2010s): Apple adopted scissor-switch technology, combining a slim profile with comfortable typing. This change made laptops thinner and was introduced in external keyboards as well.
- Butterfly Mechanism (2015-2019): Apple introduced the butterfly mechanism in its MacBook line, aiming for even thinner laptops. While it provided a sleek design, the shallow key travel received mixed reviews due to reliability issues.
- Return to Scissor Switches (2019-Present): Responding to user feedback, Apple transitioned back to scissor-switch keyboards, delivering improved key stability, comfort, and reliability. These keyboards are featured in the latest MacBooks and the Magic Keyboard.
This transition reflects Apple’s commitment to enhancing the typing experience for its users. The current scissor-switch keyboards provide a balance between slim design and user comfort, offering a more satisfying typing experience compared to the butterfly mechanism.
