Mechanical keyboards have become very popular lately due to their durability, tactile feel, and ability to customize. However, with so many different mechanical switch types out there, it can be overwhelming trying to choose the right one. In this article, we will explain the different kinds of mechanical keyboard switches and their qualities, helping you make an informed choice for your next keyboard.
Key Takeaways
- Mechanical keyboards offer a more tactile, responsive typing experience than traditional rubber dome keyboards.
- Understanding the different mechanical switch types is key to selecting the right keyboard for your needs.
- Mechanical switches are more durable and can withstand way more keystrokes than rubber domes, making them worth the investment for heavy typists.
Understanding Mechanical Switches
Mechanical switches use a physical mechanism to register keystrokes, unlike rubber domes. This mechanism provides a more tactile, responsive typing experience - making them popular with gamers, programmers, and typists. Plus, mechanical switches last longer and can handle way more keystrokes before wearing out.
Actuation Point and Force
The actuation point is when a keypress actually registers. Switches with a lower actuation point mean less force is needed to type, potentially allowing faster typing speeds. Actuation force refers to how much force is required to press a key - higher forces can be tiring for extended typing sessions.
Pre-Travel and Total Travel
Pre-travel is how far a key needs to be pressed before it registers. Total travel is the maximum distance a key can be pressed down. These factors affect the keyboard's overall feel and typing speed/accuracy. Shorter pre-travel and total travel distances often result in increased responsiveness, leading to faster typing speeds.
Switch Feel and Sound
Switch feel is the tactile feedback you get when pressing a key. Some have a tactile "bump", others are completely linear/smooth. Switch sound refers to...well, the noise a switch makes when a key is pressed. Some are quiet, others make an audible clicking noise when pressed.
Testing different switch types with a switch tester kit before buying is recommended to find your preferred feel and sound.
Types of Mechanical Switches
Mechanical keyboard switches are grouped by the type of feedback they provide when pressed:
Clicky Switches
Clicky switches make an audible clicking noise and have a tactile bump when pressed, giving distinct auditory and tactile feedback. The classic Cherry MX Blue is a popular clicky option, though the loud click can be disruptive in some environments. These switches are not recommended for quiet environments or shared spaces
Tactile Switches
Tactile switches have a noticeable bump when pressed, but no loud clicking noise. Good for those who want tactile confirmation without excessive noise. The Cherry MX Brown is a common tactile switch, known for its muted, yet responsive feel good for typing and gaming.
Linear Switches
Linear switches press down smoothly without any bump or click. Perfect for fast, uninterrupted typing. The Cherry MX Red is the quintessential linear, favored by gamers for its low resistance and fast actuation.
Silent Switches
Designed for quiet operation, silent switches keep a small tactile bump while reducing noise output. The Cherry MX Silent Red or Gateron Silent Ink exemplifies this, offering a hushed yet tactile feel suitable for shared spaces.
Every typist has different needs. Trying various switch samples can help determine which tactile feedback profile works best.
Customization and Personalization
Part of the appeal of mechanical keyboards is the ability to customize and modify them to your exact preferences:
Keycap Profiles
An easy way to personalize your keyboard's look and feel is by changing the keycaps. Keycap profiles refer to their shape - common options include the standard OEM profile, low-profile Cherry, and the taller spherical SA sculpted keycaps.
Keyboard Plates
The plate between the PCB and switches impacts sound and typing feel. Aluminum plates feel solid and weighty, while brass offers a deeper sound. Carbon fiber is lighter yet still dampened, and budget plastic plates have a somewhat hollow tone.
Hot-Swap Keyboards
Hot-swap keyboards allow you to easily swap out switches without soldering. Great for trying different switch types to find your perfect feel. Popular hot-swap models include the GMMK and Drop CTRL.
From keycaps to plates and switches, there are tons of customization options for true enthusiasts.
Switch Brands and Variants
There are many mechanical switch brands and variants out there, each with their own characteristics:
- Cherry MX: Renowned for quality, Cherry offers color-coded options like linear Reds, tactile Browns, and clicky Blues to suit different tastes.
- Gateron: Often smoother and more tactile than Cherry MX with lighter actuation. Colors mirror Cherry.
- Kailh: An affordable option with linear, tactile, and clicky variants compatible with many keyboard brands.
- Outemu: A budget pick with plenty of switch types for the cost-conscious.
- Zealio: A premium Swiss option prized for its smooth yet tactile feel in various weights and styles.
- Alps & Topre: More niche vintage and electrostatic capacitive designs with unique acoustics and feels.
The variety allows finding the perfect personal typing experience.
Specialty & Ergonomic Keyboards
Beyond standard keyboards, there are specialty designs tailored for specific needs and ergonomics:
Ergonomic Designs
Ergonomic keyboards help reduce strain through intelligent layouts. Split designs like Microsoft's Sculpt let you angle the two halves, while curved shells like Kinesis' Advantage conform to your hands' natural movements.
Gaming Switches
Gaming keyboards use switches optimized for rapid inputs and minimal fatigue. Common picks are Cherry's MX Reds for a light, fast linear stroke, or MX Browns for a tactile middle ground without noise.
Whether reducing strain or maximizing performance, specialty designs accommodate the unique demands of different users.
WATAFAQ
What's the difference between linear, tactile, and clicky?
Linear switches press smoothly with no bump or click. Tactile gives a gentle bump when actuated. Clicky combines tactile and auditory clicking feedback.
What is the difference between a regular and a silent switch?
Silent switches have rubber or dampening materials added to the stems to significantly reduce noise from bottoming out and the upstroke. Resulting in a more muted, mushy feel compared to the crisp, clacky sound of regular mechanical switches.
How do colors indicate switch traits?
While not uniform, reds often denote linear, browns tactile, and blues clicky. However, it's important to note that different switch manufacturers may use different colors to indicate different characteristics.
What makes certain switches "for gaming"?
Gaming switches prioritize low actuation forces and short travels for ultra-responsive inputs. Linears are popular for uninterrupted rhythm.
What are the sound profiles of the various mechanical keyboard switch types?
Linears are quietest with no clicks or bumps. Tactiles produce minor noises from the bump. Clicky switches are loudest due to their clicking mechanisms. Silent switches offer a unique combination of tactile feedback and noise reduction.
How does switch type impact typing experience and performance?
Linears enable unbroken typing cadence. Tactiles provide feedback against misstrokes. Clickies give pronounced feedback, though their sound can be disruptive.
What's the difference between gaming (GX) and typing (GL) switches?
GX switches optimize for gaming with lighter actuation and less travel for rapid inputs. GL balances comfort over outright speed for general typing.
