Keyboard flex? monitor flex?

[Charivari]

I think I sort of know what these turms mean...but could someone fill me in on the specifics?

What is "keyboard flex" exactly? Also...what is "monitor flex"?

What is desireable? More flex or less? why?

Thanks!

[Charles P. Jefferies]

Keyboard flex -
-The keyboard "presses down" when you push down a key.
-On some keyboards, the surrounding keys move when you depress a key.

Monitor flex - the screen "flexes" - as in, is easily twistable, you can push in the plastic.

It is better if the keyboard is firm (no flex), because it results in a more stable typing surface. Also more comfortable.

Flexing a monitor can damage it, and having a more rigid display helps protect the laptop, and is a must if you travel often.

[Charivari]

Thanks Chaz...

Is there a safe way I can test monitor flex?

[Charles P. Jefferies]

Yes - shut the lid on the laptop and push down in a bunch of places - middle, etc. If it goes down too easily, then it is not well-constructed/enforced.

Also, when the laptop is open, just grab the top two corners of the display and twist it side to side gently. If it goes too easy (as in, no effort required), then that is not a good indicator of build quality. Bigger displays flex more, keep that in mind.