Why Small Screens on Keyboards Are a Terrible PC Trend: A Call for Change
In the ever-evolving world of technology, trends come and go. However, one trend that has caught the attention of many tech enthusiasts and keyboard aficionados is the emergence of small screens on keyboards. While some may see this as a novel feature, others, like longtime keyboard enthusiast Michael Crider, are less than impressed.
The Argument Against Small Screens on Keyboards
Michael, who has a passion for all things keyboards, from building mechanical ones to customizing keycaps, has a bone to pick with the recent surge of keyboards incorporating small screens. Brands like Razer, Asus, and SteelSeries are jumping on the bandwagon, adding tiny screens to their keyboards in the name of innovation. However, Michael argues that this trend is nothing more than a case of form over function, a move that prioritizes aesthetics over practicality.
Despite his own struggles with typing in the past, Michael emphasizes that the need to look at a keyboard while typing is virtually nonexistent. As a professional writer who spends hours typing away each day, Michael has honed his touch typing skills without ever needing to glance at his keyboard. He points out that the primary focus should be on the screen, where the real action happens in the digital realm.
Debunking the Need for Small Keyboard Screens
While some may argue that small screens on keyboards offer additional information, especially for gaming keyboards with intricate mechanisms, Michael remains unconvinced. He highlights examples like Razer’s Huntsman line, which boasts advanced features like adjustable actuation but does not rely on a dedicated screen to convey this information. LED indicators and software interfaces are more than sufficient to communicate essential data to users without the need for a separate screen.
A Retrospective Look at Keyboard Trends
Michael draws parallels to past attempts at integrating screens into keyboards in the early 2000s, which eventually fizzled out due to lack of utility and added costs. Even tech giant Apple, known for its innovative designs, dropped the idea of keyboard screens from its MacBook Pro lineup, signaling a shift away from this trend.
While Michael acknowledges that there may be exceptions to the rule, such as devices like Elgato’s Stream Deck that enhance the user experience, he maintains that the majority of keyboards with small screens are unnecessary additions. As someone deeply invested in the world of keyboards, Michael expresses his hope for this trend to fade away, urging consumers to prioritize functionality over flashy gimmicks.
In a world where technology trends come and go, Michael’s perspective offers a refreshing take on the debate surrounding small screens on keyboards. As he continues to explore the realm of keyboards and tech innovations, his passion for practicality and efficiency remains unwavering.
Michael’s insights shed light on the importance of distinguishing between trends that add value and those that detract from the user experience. As the tech industry continues to evolve, his voice serves as a reminder to prioritize substance over style in the pursuit of meaningful innovation.