Design options of membrane keyboards
Membrane keyboards can be designed flexibly to meet both functional and aesthetic requirements. The design has a significant impact on user-friendliness and enables intuitive operation. A well-thought-out interface facilitates quick and precise input. This is particularly advantageous in industrial controls, medical devices and safety-critical applications.
In addition to functionality, visual design plays a central role. Colors, shapes and textures contribute to the brand identity and enhance the haptic perception of the product. An attractive design not only improves the user experience, but also the value and recognition of the device.
Individual customization options allow membrane keyboards to be tailored precisely to the respective application areas. They therefore offer a perfect combination of ergonomics, aesthetics and durability.
Printing of membrane keyboards
The Printing of membrane keyboards is done on the back. This ensures that the print is particularly durable and the print is protected from abrasion and wear. The most common methods are:

Digital printing – precise and flexible design for membrane keyboards
Digital printing is ideal for the production of membrane keyboards with Color gradients, photorealistic graphics and complex designsIn contrast to screen printing, this process offers greater detail and color variety, making it particularly attractive for high-quality, customized printing.
Since digital printing does not require screen printing templates, prototypes, individual pieces and small series can be produced quickly and cost-effectively. This flexibility makes digital printing the preferred choice for customized membrane keyboards. Design and function can be adapted precisely to the requirements of the respective project.

Screen printing – cost-effective and durable labeling for membrane keyboards
Screen printing offers an economical and precise solution for labeling membrane keyboards. This process applies the ink directly to the membrane using a fine-mesh screen. This produces clear and durable printing results.
This method enables permanent, abrasion-resistant labeling It supports a wide range of color and design options. It is particularly suitable for durable, visually appealing membrane keyboards that must withstand high mechanical and environmental stresses. Its high durability ensures that the labeling remains legible even under intensive use.
Further design options for membrane keyboards
Silicone keys – Non-slip, precise and adaptable
Membrane keyboards with silicone keys offer a non-slip surface and a high-quality tactile feel. The silicone cover can either be laminated onto the circuit package as an actuation layer or designed as a full-fledged actuation surface with integrated carbon contacts.
This silicone design enables particularly low actuation forcesThe precise haptic feel is retained. Alternatively, the decorative film can be combined with individual silicone keys to meet specific operating requirements. This creates robust, ergonomic, and durable keyboard solutions, ideal for industrial and medical applications.
Epoxy Design – High-quality appearance and long-lasting protection for membrane keyboards
Epoxy finishing enables the design of three-dimensional keys that are characterized by a sophisticated look and a particularly pleasant feel. This technique creates a shiny, raised surface that is not only visually appealing, but also improves user-friendliness.
In addition to the aesthetic added value, the epoxy coating offers reliable protection against abrasion, scratches and mechanical stress. This significantly extends the lifespan of the keys, even with intensive use.
Thanks to these properties, the epoxy finish is ideal for high-quality membrane keyboards in industrial controls, medical technology, automotive applications and consumer products where both durability and an attractive appearance are required.
Diverse surface structures for individual membrane keyboards
Special decorative films offer a wide range of surface structures that meet functional and aesthetic requirements. From high-gloss to soft satin finishes, designs can be created that optimize the appearance and feel of the keyboard.
Precise embossing of the decorative foil enables metallic or carbon optics, giving membrane keyboards a high-quality and modern appearance. These textures enhance the design and user experience with a pleasant feel and increased resistance to scratches and wear. They offer an ideal combination of durability, functionality, and visual enhancement.
Membrane keyboards with insert pockets – flexible labeling solution
Insert pockets allow for easy and flexible customization of key labels. This solution is particularly suitable for applications where device functions change or multilingual labeling is required.
By integrating insert pockets, paper or foil inserts can be quickly replaced without the need for a new keyboard. This reduces maintenance costs and adjustment effort while maintaining usability.
Your membrane keyboard manufacturer with years of expertise
As an experienced manufacturer of membrane keyboards, we accompany you from the initial idea to series production. Our team of engineers and designers will help you select the best materials and technologies. Based on our expertise, we will make you specific suggestions for improvement. We also develop strategies for cost efficiency.
Contact us under info@nh-technology.de. We look forward to your inquiry!
Technology and equipment options
Our membrane keyboards combine the latest technology with the highest level of functionality, individually adapted to your needs. Whether metal snap-on disks for precise feedback, embossed keys for better haptics or LED and LGF lighting - we offer flexible solutions.
More on this topic at Technology and equipment
keyboard sample set
The N&H pattern set includes a special pattern silicone keypad, as well as one Sample membrane keyboard with the various options. You will also receive the Design Guide for membrane keyboards and silicone keypads. Order sample set